Empire - User contributions [en]

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T12:26:45Z

Kirkbride: /* Saturday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Fire_The_Forests_(Ossium)|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#The_Greatest_Prize_(Rhianos)|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 20 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Do_Some_Harm_(Arhallogen)|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[388YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_fortune#A_Sudden_Threat_(Reikos)|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]]|| Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T12:26:17Z

Kirkbride: /* Other Events */

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===The Keys of Blood===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble'''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run-up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T12:18:52Z

Kirkbride: /* Friday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Fire_The_Forests_(Ossium)|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#The_Greatest_Prize_(Rhianos)|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 20 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Do_Some_Harm_(Arhallogen)|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]]|| Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T12:18:33Z

Kirkbride: /* Light at the End (Khobel Tavah) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Marginalia in London, British Library, Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r.png|align=right|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
__TOC__
Six [[Realms|realms of magic]] align with the mortal world, whose [[Inhabitants of the realms|inhabitants]] are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet, to a degree, share some of their concerns. They are both complex and simple at the same time, seeking to change the world to match their perception of how it should work. They bargain and negotiate, threaten and cajole, and while it can be difficult to predict exactly where their gifts or curses might lead, still they have much to offer.

The Empire can reach out to the [[eternal|eternals]] through the powers of the [[Archmage|Archmages]] and the [[Conclave]], but the creatures of the realms may sometimes take the initiative themselves. The power of [[alignment]] allows the Conclave to make it easier or harder for them to touch the world, relationships shaped by the tension between true friends and dire enemies. Some desire that state of [[Alignment#amity|amity]], some revel in the [[Alignment#enmity|enmity]] they have earned, but none can deny the power of the Conclave to guard the borders of the Empire.

It is a rare season that passes without an eternal, or a handful, seeking to influence the Empire. There are other winds of fortune that speak of different situations. The responses to the [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missives of the Archmages from this season is covered in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune, while {{TBC}} deals with magic of an astronomantic, mortal, or mysterious provenance.

==Autumn==
===An Unexpected Ally (Basileia)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=City of Locks.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A Grendel mercenary company are threatening the Grove of Wittal'''
* '''The Grendel leader wishes to defect but can't do it openly'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grimnir of Wittal Grove'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for defeating the Grendel and potentially rescue the Iontach'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Organising and funding Grendel mercenary groups is a challenging market. With the chaotic presence of the wreckers, naval superiority in the Bay of Catazar isn’t a given for fledgling mercenary companies. Enterprising mercenary paymasters have, in recent years and with encouragement from their [[Asavea|allies]], started to probe other waters for opportunity. The Gullet passes from the Sea of Snow past Jotun shores to the very heart of Kallavesa. One ship has managed to avoid the monsters of the Sea of Snow, the ships of the Fjorknae, and the Winterfolk and Marcher fleets to land close in [[Kallavesa#Wittal_Grove|Wittal Grove]]. Now, they march on Wittal itself, intent to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. However, Iontach ''Meddool Miniog'' has something even more audacious planned.

A representative of the Matchmaker's Forum, of the [[Basileia|City of Locks]] travelled to Anvil with a message just a week before the Summer Solstice. It appears that Iontach ''Miniog'' wishes to defect, referencing a cousin living in luxury in Apulian. They have arranged for their mercenary band to accompany them into Kallavesa under the understanding that they are going to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. From discussion with the herald, [[League_Egregore|Guise]] believes they would certainly be able to accept the oath of Meddool; if Meddool is able to be rescued they will be able to join the League.

The herald of the City of Locks, therefore, offers the following contract to '''Theowold Vakarsson''', the Grimnir of Wittal Grove:

Escort the Iontach to Anvil a free orc. In exchange, the Iontach will provide a sum of six thrones after the summit.<br>
The mercenary company should be defeated to ease the rescue of Meddool, but the company's continued survival is not a factor.<br>
Failure to secure the Iontach will see the mercenaries go ahead with raiding the Healing House, preventing the [[great work]] from providing herbs until after the Autumn Equinox 388YE.
<div style="float: left; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|width=300px}}</div>
===Arratan Surety (Estavus)===
<div {{float}}><table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Arratan Surety'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Enterio, Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 250 thrones in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases white granite production of Arratan Gamble by five wains a season
* Increases upkeep of Arratan Gamble by three thrones a season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Architect of Hammers has used their power to assess the Arratan Gamble'''
* '''The Architects of Iron and Stone have investigated and uncovered an opportunity to quarry the largest vein from the other side'''
The Architects of Iron and Stone were incredibly excited to receive their first assignment from the [[Architect of Hammers]]. The newly elected '''Edmundo of Damakan's forge''' wasted no time in setting them to work in assessing the [[Arratan Gamble]] in Enterio, [[Tassato]]. The Arratan Gamble works incredibly well, but there is always room for improvement! ''Architect Noether'' calculates that with the amount of wains that have already been quarried, there is enough in the ground for at least another two hundred years! ''Noether'' presents a plan for a small quarrying outpost, nothing too fancy, on the other side of the largest vein that will allow workers to come at it from the two best angles.

The "''Arratan Surety''", a mirthful jest at the name of the quarry, would increase the amount of white granite produced by the Bourse seat by five wains a season. It would have substantial initial costs, and the extra workers and gangers would see the upkeep increased by three thrones a season.

==Day==

===It is a Diamond (Sinokenon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SinokenonArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A disparate group are travelling to Anvil to speak to the Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch and possibly others'''
* '''They do not want to speak to the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'''
* '''The group aims to arrive just after six on Friday'''
Last summit, the Eternal [[Sinokenon]] declared that it was [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#The_Turning_of_the_Wheel_(Sinokenon)|engaging in an initiative]] to reach out to the foundation-stones of the Empire, to gauge receptiveness to Sinokenon's ideals and to send its ministers to attempt to combat what it believed to be misunderstandings as to the intentions and nature of the Turning Mirror. They duly arrived, bring with them pamphlets and small gifts for those they met.

Since the Spring Equinox, its heralds have been engaged in a similar campaign in many places across the Empire. While Diamondmind only enjoys [[alignment|neutrality]] - and hence does not have the unfettered access to the Empire enjoyed by those eternals who have the [[Conclave|Conclave's]] amity - there are many Day regios in the Empire to which its heralds have access, and no small number of individuals happy to assist them in their work. After all - Sinokenon has been on at worst distant and at times even somewhat gregarious terms with the Empire since its foundation! They are particularly prevalent in [[Urizen]], Varushka, and in the [[Skarsind|northernmost territory of the Unshackled]].

The greatest number of Apex Hyperion's heralds are seen across the spires of Urizen. The mountain nation is a particular favourite of That Which Lives In Its Name. It sees their pursuit of a perfect world as most pleasing, and approves of their structured, ordered way of life. The illuminates of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] have often enjoyed its favour - reportedly, the people of [[Tsark]], just a short distance across the mountain range, enjoy similar attentions.

In [[Varushka]], it has long been known as Silver Sovereign - a name that befits its status, perhaps, as a powerful and potentially dangerous supernatural entity, but one that can be bargained with. There are a number of vales, especially in the hills of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Wieliczka]], where Singular Point is sometimes consulted on matters of rulership. It has often expressed an approval of the vale as a unit of societal structure, because of the way the rule of boyars is born from strength but cannot rest on tyranny. A vale is a communal decision by a community to live in a place of order, separating themselves from the wilds.

It has looked with favour on the Imperial Orcs since their nation was formally founded. While the Way of Hierarchy is famously not one to deal with societies in the process of revolutionary change or great reform (and thus somewhat turned its face from the Empire during the years of the orc rebellion), it was in favour of the nascent nation once it was formally founded. Again, the ordered nature of legion life is something Tomorrow And Tomorrow greatly approves of and which it wishes to see prosper. The Unshackled also represent the Empire forgoing what it sees as the "irrationality" of forced slavery, though this is a somewhat abstruse and philosophical perspective which not every Imperial Orc is willing to hear. In recent years, apparently, it has also attempted to build a relationship with some of the Tamazi who dwell in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]] - a relationship founded on a mutual dislike of the Axou.

Anyone who has spent time in the Empire in the past season, especially in these three nations or in any other part of the Empire where structure and order are prized, may choose to have met one of the heralds of Sinokenon. They will invariably have been polite and friendly, distributing copies of a curious pamphlet entitled [[:File:Sinokenon_and_You.pdf|Sinokenon and You]]. Any difficult questions on any topic will have been waved away - the heralds will have been clear that they are there primarily as messengers, and to learn.

It seems that they have indeed learned something - and it is not to their liking. As the Summer Solstice draws near, rumours begin to spread - in part carried by the heralds of Friend Of All - that the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] nurses a strong animosity to Sinokenon. The eternal grows concerned they are planning to bring the enmity of the Conclave down upon Sinokenon.

Whether this is true or not is hard to say. It is clear, however, that it causes the heralds some distress. They are not alone, however - for the Argent Mantra is not without mortal supporters - allies the eternal has patiently cultivated over the years. Representatives from the [[illuminate|illuminates]] of [[Zenith]], the vales of Wieliczka, and the [[Tamazi]] of Gildenheim are seen making their way to Anvil. Apparently they intend to arrive as soon as they can - perhaps a little after the sixth hour of the evening on the Friday - and intend to lobby to ensure that their relationship with That Which Lies Above All is not disrupted.

They particularly want to speak to the Grandmaster of the [[Celestial Arch]], who apparently they are assuming will naturally take their side in this matter, but are happy to speak to any grandmaster ''except'' that of the Sevenfold Path, who, if rumour is indeed to believed, has made up her mind already. They will have just a few hours until the Conclave begins, and the truth (or otherwise) of these rumours are known.

===Eclectic Eye (Kimus)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kimus001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Kimus has announced that with the help of Imperial citizens, it has completed a means to safely scry upon the actions of Cold Sun.'''
* '''It informs the Conclave that it shall use this tool, the ''Corlucis'', to provide information on what it perceives.'''
Robed in purest white, its garb edged in [[weltsilver|weltsilver thread]], a [[Kimus#Viziers|Vizier]] of [[Kimus|''the Thousand Eyes of Sun and Moon'']] unfolds at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds like the opening of an eye. Those who are subjected to its stare feel the force of its ruby-coloured gaze as it communicates with language both scant yet heavily freighted with meaning. It explains that through the prescient sacrifice of ''The Circle of Enduring Wisdom'' and incisive action of those Imperial heroes that braved the dangers of [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Staring_at_the_Sun_(Kimus)|''Terminus Sol'']] the '''''Corlucis''''' has been assembled. This arcane tool now permits ''She Who Watches'' to scrutinise and observe the poisoned light of the regio, to understand it and through understanding gain foresight over the machinations of [[Cold Sun|Cold Sun]], the entity that poisoned it.

At this last pronouncement, the herald almost appears to express something other than scholarly focus. Whether it is a satisfied twitch of its lips or a slight pursing before it continues, it soon resumes its lecture. As was agreed, the Corlucis shall also be used to provide the [[Conclave|Conclave]] forewarning on the actions of Cold Sun. While at present, ''the Celestial Eye'' might only discern the largest of motions within the light it sees that in time that it will achieve a greater degree of acuity in its peering. The herald falls silent with the final assertion that the Empire has opened a new eye towards the future. With a final, appraising glance about the chamber, the herald is gone in a blink of light.

===Silence in the Library (Phaleron)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''An attendant of Phaleron will be arriving at 18:00 on Saturday to hand an arcane projection to ''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian'''''
* '''They request the presence of the Archmage of Day, the Emissary to the Celestial Library, and/or a Grandmaster'''
The Conclave has [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Acceptance:_Phaleron_and_Phoebus_Al-Pulpi|made their decision]] regarding [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dying_Night|what to do]] about the [[Redoubt#Tower_of_Light_and_Shadow|Tilphussian Reach]] following its ruin at the hands of the Grendel. A deal offered and accepted, the [[Phaleron|Archives of Silence]] are bound to fulfil their part of the bargain; provision of the Arcane Projection to Entreat with Al-Pulpi to the raising magician.

This does not mean at all that the ''Coral Library'' does not have some concerns. Given recent revelations to the Conclave, it is rather worried about handing over this very special bit of magic to someone with the surname "Vicente". The [[Whisper_Gallery|Whisper Gallery]] are the natural enemy of the ''Celestial Library'', as they are of all thinking beings. In any case, while Phaleron is definitely going to hand it over, a herald has shown up to the [[civil service]] to ask if the [[Archmage of Day]], [[Emissary to the Celestial Library]] and/or a [[Grandmaster]] might consider being present to the trade off to make sure that everything is done "in the light".

The attendant in charge of the projection is scheduled to arrive in the Hall of Worlds to hand it off to '''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian''' at 18:00 on Saturday of the Summer Solstice.

==Night==
===Fire, Fury, and Flame (Janon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Janon002b.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Janon has been placed under enmity by the conclave'''
* '''Janon seems to be enthused by this change in the Empire's passions'''
* '''Armed bands of heralds have entered Ossium and Sarangrave and are promising to curse both territories unless they are stopped'''

''The Shadowed Flame'' is a mercurial being at the best of times. Embodying fire and passion in all things, zie cares little for the difference between love and hate. As such, conclave's declaration of [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] has not had the chastening effect on him that might have been hoped for. As spring shades into summer, small bands of armed heralds march across the borders of [[Ossium]] and [[Sarangrave]]. Both of them begin spreading the message to any people that they can find. ''Tinder-of-Anarchy'', who is well pleased with her new titles, is overjoyed that it gets to experience the Empire's rage and hatred. Less than a year ago ''Blasphemy's Matchmaker'' asked to be brought tales of [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Affection_and_Animosity_(Janon)|beloved rivals]], those who are implacably set against one another yet who are bonded closer than any friends might be. Hopefully the Empire will embrace this new relationship just as much as Janon has.

Thus, the heralds issue their challenges. The ones they have called out will bring forces to fight against them, or else to celebrate with them, or perhaps both. They shall match blades and hearts in the eternal contest of passion. Then, if the heralds are alive at the end of it, they will go to the nearest Night regio and immolate themselves. Once that it done, Janon's power will be invoked and the territory will be place under a "blessing", bringing the "blessing" of [[Unfettered Anarchy]] to those who dwell there.

Scouts indicate that these heralds, despite being lightly armoured, seem to be possessed of immense reserves of [[Heroic_skills|heroic spirit]], and that some among them seem to be capable of inflicting Unfettered Anarchy on people with as much ease as any [[Magical_skills#Battle_Mage|battle mage]] delivering a spell of their own.

====Fire The Forests (Ossium)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Ossium'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Shadowed Torchbearer'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}

Upon marching over the border from the [[Forest of Ulnak]], the heralds made their reasons for choosing this place perfectly clear. Ossium is the home territory of the [[Shadowed Torchbearer]], the one who conclave selected to promote passion within the Empire and to stand between them and ''the Muse of Fire''. Let Vellenka Vanyanova come to face them, and show where her passions truly lie! Soldiers from the resupplying Gryphon's Pride attempt to catch the heralds and finish the matter quickly, but the heralds run fast and do not allow themselves to be caught. They will be faced by the one of their choosing, or they will not be caught at all.

Grudgingly accepting that the best thing they can do is inform the proper authorities, the scouts of the Gryphon's Pride pass on that the heralds keep returning to the Burned Glade in Echofell. It is the responsibility of '''Vellenka Vanyanova''', the Shadowed Torchbearer, to resolve the situation before any harm can be caused. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Ossium with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

====Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The path to Sarangrave is considerably shorter for the heralds of ''Whirling Chaos'', as they emerge from a regio over the border in [[Axos]], where the enmity of the [[Conclave]] has no effect. Once in Imperial territory, they begin to call out the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]]. Elegabla brought this declaration against ''the Voice of Zorech'', and they are overjoyed to witness the passion of the Urizeni. "Come fight us, sword scholar," they cry, "as your loathed founder once fought the Highborn!" Nobody bothers trying to explain to them that the sword scholars have splintered. It does not seem likely that they would listen.

The heralds have taken the field around Slow Worm's Hill in Kroll. It is the responsibility of '''Elagabala''', Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, to prevent any explosions of undirected passion. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Sarangrave with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

==Spring==

===Do Some Harm (Arhallogen)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Centipede General.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''There is an opportunity to kill a significant number of Grendel'''
* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for poisoning the Grendel'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Last season, the eternal [[Arhallogen]] made a [[Key_of_dreams#Sharp_Fangs_Behind_The_Leaves_(Spring)|series of offers]] to the Imperial Conclave in order to help them avoid, in its eyes, a steep decline into disaster. To the great surprise of the ''Centipede General'', it was none other than the [[Silver Chalice]] who accepted its offer of a boon to kill a significant number of [[Grendel]], if they were willing to put the nefarious [[Ossegrahn]] under Enmity. Perhaps, says the ''Envenomed Blade'', they misunderstood the [[Silver Chalice]]. To value ones own lives and the lives of ones allies by ruthlessly killing those who would threaten them is indeed a philosophy she can align herself with. When one commits to ''"Ensure that Conclave is reminded of the value of life, and that it makes decisions with that value in mind"'', perhaps this means understanding the value in taking life from their foes? Yes, yes, this will do indeed.

The ''Maw-of-Spikes'' has located an encampment of the marines from the Grendel navy, the Golden Winds, based downstream from a potent Spring regio that provides it with unnaturally clear water. Such places were rare in [[Mareave]] until recently, and it is no surprise that the orcs of the Broken Shore would set up a camp there to take advantage of it. The ''Shadow Blade'' has a simple offer for the Silver Chalice; all they have to do is curse someone with [[Curse of Gangrenous Flesh]] where the ritualists have [[Regio#Using_Regio|drawn]] on the regio and invoke three of Arhallogen's names. This will corrupt the regio and poison the supply of the Grendel Encampment. While they will eventually realise and move on, they will take five hundred casualties before the source of their woes is identified. The regio is not untended, but to sweeten the deal, ''Many Move as One'' will send her heralds to neutralise them before the Grandmaster or her representatives arrive.

The conjunction to the Golden Wind's encampment will be at 15:45 on Saturday, and the [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]], '''Fausta Ankarien''', will be responsible for ultimately poisoning the Grendel.

==Winter==
===A Varushkan goes to War (Surut)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Surut001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Surut is impressed by the orders of the general of the Northern Eagle and offers a boon'''
* '''He is happy to offer similar aid to other generals as well, if they wish the help of the Burnt Prince'''
The [[Surut|''Charred Prince'']] rarely gives much attention to the pontification of wizards and their ever-increasing esoteric arcane musings, he is far more interested in the people who actually get things done and get their hands dirty. Specifically, the generals and heroes of the Empire. Recently, he has been eagerly following the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Northern_Eagle|adventures of General '''Aksel Reznov Razoradze''']] in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]].

While he nominally favours the Druj in the conflict, he has been savouring their desperation and exacting greater and greater tribute for his continued support. He has no particular preference to whether they survive being crushed between the Empire and the [[Thule]]. Should the General invoke the name of the ''Burnt Steward'' in their orders the next time that the [[Northern Eagle]] infiltrate Sanath, he will intercede to help find opportunities for them to engage in further acts of arson if they so choose.

The [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] relaying this information to Jorgen at the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] reminds him that the ''Raging Inferno'' is perfectly happy to offer his aid to other members of the [[Military Council]] as well. Should they seek his aid, they have to impress him in the orders they submit. Provided they draw his attention by including his name in their orders, he will pay attention and offer help to those who have shown they deserve it.

===Call to Arms (Tharim)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tharim 001.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A legion of Thairm's Ashen Knights has travelled to Karov'''
* '''The legion intends to remain there for the foreseeable future'''
The mood of [[Tharim]] is wroth this season. His chosen has stepped down, and both Skathe and Surut continue to be welcomed by the Conclave, even if they do not enjoy its friendship as he does. The only light in the twilight of his dark halls is the fate of Jem Bribban. It is apt, then, that the mood of the Ashen Knights is similar. They arrive in Karov a month before the Summer Solstice and by the time of the summit have established a camp just outside of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Vorota]].

Why they are here, however, is beyond anyone's guess. A few volhovs on their way from Delev tried to discuss it with them, but were unable to get much beyond stoic, monosyllabic answers. Why the Ashen Knights are here, and why ''now'', is anyone's best guess. If the notoriously vindictive eternal's mood is souring, it does not bode well. Tharim can be a powerful ally to his friends, but a bitter enemy to those he believes have wronged him or failed to give him his due.

===The Beast Below (Agramant)===
{{SOP|statement=Agramant has sent his servants to 'aid' Imperial citizens abandoned in Therunin. This must shame us. Highguard cannot tolerate a monster such as the Abominable One being seen as a rescuer while the Empire's own people suffer. Highguard has chapters, military units, congregations, physicks, priests, pilgrims, the Unconquered and more. We can send virtuous aid where aid is desperately needed. So let Highguard act! Let our citizens escort the refugees and support the healers of High Chalcis, while our chapters and military units aid the Navarri in escaping Therunin. The hungry, frightened, and desperate must find Imperial support. We will deny Agramant the worship of desperation. Only actions are virtuous. If we would calls ourselves guardians of the Empire's soul, then we must prove it where that soul is endangered.|by=Synchar of Ebon's Hall, Highguard National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The eternal Agramant is preying on those fleeing Therunin - offering them aid, and interdicted means for any to contact him for thanks or further 'help'. Those he preys on feel they are alone. That he is the only place they can turn. Along with Navarri guides, we call on Loyalty dedicants to travel to the places these Navarri refugees gather. We must prove to them they are not alone, and show them what loyalty is, and what it is not.|by=Neri of Ebon's Hall, Loyalty Assembly|vote=306-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The refugees of Therunin are being manipulated by Agramant into believing he is their only option for help. He targets those who are weak and alone, and seeks to gain access to their spirits and our nation. We call upon Navarr to remind these refugees we are here and we support them. Open your doors if you can and stop Agramant from targetting those in need.|by=Xandor Trodbroker, Navarr National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 256-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
The Imperial Synod, including a [[general]] of an Imperial [[army]] has had a great deal to say about [[Agramant|Agramant's]] offers of help in [[Therunin]] in recent months. To this, it pointedly says that it is materially helping the Navarri reclaim what is rightfully theirs and fulfil their ancient oaths, ''while the Empire is not''. The Military Council is welcome to take over and fulfil their promises to the people of Navarr any time they so choose by sending in the full might of Imperial steel, Agramant will not stop them.

In the meantime, it sees no reason not to continue as it has been doing and showing it it is truly the ''Friend of the Forgotten''. Wherever the Empire has abandoned people. Wherever it has allowed innocents to suffer. Wherever it has broken trust. Agramant will be there to pick up the pieces - to bear the burden that the Empire finds too heavy to shoulder.

While many have fled to Reikos, some Navarri who have stayed, chosen to side with the ''Wastewalker'' to reclaim their homes from the Druj and continue to fulfil their oath in combatting the power of the vallorn of Tharunind. One such individual is Dochas of the Weeping Glade, who claims to take inspiration from Gobaith of Summer's Grove reborn. They have managed to form a settlement of survivors in the nominally Druj-controlled territory and, with Agramant's aid, wishes to take back Therunin for the Navarr whether the Military Council chooses to help them or not.

This downtime (and perhaps for the foreseeable future) any Navarri military unit can take the '''Reconquer Therunin''' campaigning venture, which will cause their unit to join Dochas and with his followers and heralds of Agramant, begin to retake a region from the Druj. A standard military unit will receive two pawns of Heart's Blood for their aid, with upgraded or enchanted Military Units receiving proportionally more. As long as at least ten military units take this action, it will also be available next season and Agramant will do whatever it takes to ensure the settlement survives.

This venture appears to be completely illegal, and anyone who takes part is almost certainly going to face execution by the magistrates for working hand in glove with a forbidden eternal. Agramant does not wish to sow suspicion or concern among the Empire, so the names of every citizen from Anvil who takes part will be known. The Howler understands that they risk death at the hands of the Empire for trying to fulfil their oaths and save their fellow Navarri, but is determined that the names of those prepared to sacrifice themselves in this way should not go unrecorded. Sacrifice is the Pride of the Navarr after all.

While the Synod itself may have spoken out against Agramant's actions, the Voice of the Pines believe that in her heart, the [[Emperor Vesna|Empress of the Hearth]] surely appreciates its struggle to aid her subjects. Should she mention him or [[Therunin]] ''in any capacity'' in her next imperial address, he has let it be known that he will take that as a sign that she approves of his aid to her citizens, and will send even more heralds to aid in the campaign there.

===Light at the End (Khobel Tavah)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
In the months following the Spring Equinox, the Imperial Regio is once more subject to the ghastly presence of the Speaker for the Drowned, the herald of Khobel Tavah who takes the form of a drowned Highborn sailor. This dolorous figure, whose every movement is accompanied by the ringing of bells, makes its way to the Civil Service hub once invited into Anvil. It seems it has more messages from Old Tom Flotsam and Mary Bitters to deliver.

Firstly, regarding the ''lost flotsam'' that is Eilian Sweetwater. It does not intend to repeat its warnings of ''jetsam'' uttered in darkness to the Empire's keepers of wreck. However, it wants to make quite clear the state of Eilian. The medicaments offered for him granted a temporary release from the ''suspension in terror'' that Eilian is undergoing - but it was only temporary. He has proven unusually resilient - the Speaker makes clear that ''Harbinger'' in particular is impressed at a mortal whose mind can withstand her abyssal salt to such a degree. If the Conclave chooses to claim its ''lost flotsam'' and with it the ''jetsam'' at the Summer Solstice, the Speaker believes Eilian will be able to return to work within the season.

However, if the Conclave tarries longer, then the mind of the Empire's resolute servant will, says the Speaker, surely begin to fray. The ''Prophet of the Last Light'' has seen this in omens and visions - no mortal can withstand immersion in abyssal salt forever. If they wait until the Autumn Equinox, then Eilian will require at least a season of recovery before he returns to work. If they wait until Winter, he will need a year or more of recovery. Beyond that he will be broken: in mind if not in body. He will, of course, survive if they tarry longer - but he will never be in a position to serve the Empire again. Salt preserves the body - but the spirit's light eludes even the touch of Tideless Scream.

Secondly, the Speaker wants to reiterate another offer. Two summits ago Khobel Tavah sent their Lighthouse-Keeper to speak with the people of the Empire to offer aid to the Empire in the building of lighthouses. Specifically, Fear Death By Water offered, via their Keeper, an Everlasting Flame. This light, made from ghostfire of the Winter Realm, would never go out so long as the lighthouse in which it is placed stands. This could be either a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Warning_Light|lighthouse]], a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Welcoming_Beacon|great lighthouse]], or another commission to build a lighthouse arising as the result of an opportunity.

If Khobel Tavah ever became aware of any doom that would otherwise befall the territory where it was placed then it would send grim omens that portended the coming disaster. The flame would also gather to it the spirits of the restless dead. This would give the region the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted quality]]. The ghosts would not be hostile - in the [[opportunity|right situation]] they might even be bargained with to aid the Empire.

The Speaker for the Drowned believes that the Empire may have selected Rebekah's Leap in [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]] as the location for the Everlasting Flame. This is well, though they may wish to wait for the return of their ''lost flotsam'' as plans for the Lighthouse at Nikephoros would probably combine well with any planned lighthouse in the same region. However, Foretold-by-Bells does require that the Conclave a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] to name the commission where the ghostfire will be housed. The commission would not need to be finished, but it would need to be begun, and consent to place the Everlasting Flame within the lighthouse would have to be provided as part of the necessary details.

==Summer==
===The Long Game (Jaheris)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=JaherisArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Jaheris wishes to encourage ambition amongst newcomers to Anvil'''
* '''One of his heralds will meet with some newcomers, chosen by egregores'''
The [[Jaheris|Moonsilver Prince]] has made an offer to the egregores of each of the ten nations; he has provided them with a badge and charged them to give it to a member of their nation who is new(er) to Anvil and who they see as a citizen of great promise. They will be invited to a meeting with the ''Argent Preceptor'', one of the heralds of the ''Unicorn King'' charged with encouraging new talent to pursue and achieve their ambitions. Under his previous guise, this might be rather concerning, yet the [[Jaheris#A_New_Demesne|new face of Jaheris]] seems far more trustworthy. As far as eternals go, of course.

The Preceptor will meet with the candidates at the standing stones at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds at 12:45 on the Saturday of the Summer Solstice. From there, they will be taken through the Hall of Worlds to a specially prepared chamber to discuss what ambitious schemes they might be interested in pursuing at Anvil.

===The Greatest Prize (Rhianos)===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Cede Tournament Grounds of Laroc'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|Concedence]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Cedes the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to [[Rhianos]]
* Removes the investment in businesses in Astolat
* Increases investment in military units in Astolat
* Military units in Astolat engaging in a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Costs can be covered by treasure at the Stone of Thonkilch</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Rhianos has asked for the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to be ceded to them'''
* '''If the Tournament Grounds are ceded to Rhianos then the eternal will grant his favour to the Eastern Sky'''
Originally [[Down_the_cavalier_road|proposed]] almost four years ago, the quest of the [[Eastern Sky]] has seen wondrous works of magic, grand challenges completed, and great statues raised. ''[[Rhianos|Shimmergold]]'' is open about their willingness to accept a similar statue to that built for [[Cathan Canae]], but the Grand Tour has enticed ''Coruscating Oarfish''. What then, could ''Seadragon'' wish for?

The answer, it turns out, is quite simple. The ''Auspicious Mariner'' wants the [[Astolat#Laroc|tournament grounds of Laroc]]. The ''King of the Nine Tides'' will send his heralds through to ready those daring knights and knights-errant who are readying to go on a [[Venture#Questing_Ventures|quest]] or even a [[Venture#Raiding_Ventures|raid]]. They will be offered help, advice, or even simply a refreshing drink that encourages the pursuit of adventure. Any Dawnish [[military unit]] in Astolat that undertakes either a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings.

Of course, nothing is simple when it comes to the denizens of the realms. The [[business]] owners of the territory will no longer receive a share of the profits brought in by the tourneys. Instead, those proceeds would go towards mending and repairing the arms, legs, arms, and armour of those adventuring over the horizon. In order for this to work, ''Lightning Fish'' will need to have the Tourney Grounds ceded to it. If it were as simple as sending heralds to go and encourage good Dawnish folks, then they wouldn't need to ask. Indeed, several heralds of ''Lady Gullscry'' already visit the tourney grounds, albeit in (very bad) disguises.

Such an act will require the Senate to vote to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|cede]] the great work to the eternal. Separately, ''Swoopingfeather'' has a further request for the people of Dawn, and specifically the incumbent General of the [[Eastern Sky]]...

====Oddities (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Druj are trying to sacrifice treasure to Agramant in exchange for aid in the Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''General of the Eastern Sky'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for recovering the treasure'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
''Swoopingfeather'' warns that the Druj are well on their way to sacrificing the treasure to [[Agramant|Ropebiter]] in Sarangrave. The herald of Leaf-on-the-Breeze provides enthralling detail, the Druj ''Het Tavix Boneshaver'' must ensure that the Stone of Thonkilch, and the treasure placed there, remain undisturbed for a full week. They will have almost finished their vigil by the start of the summit, and it will end by the stroke of midnight on the first night. There is a chance then, for the General of the Eastern Sky and their allies to prove their mettle and disrupt the Druj.

'''Dame Aurum De Castellan''', the incumbent [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]], is charged by ''Swoopingfeather'' to take their allies and travel to the Turan Flats, disrupt the Druj efforts and recover the treasure. If the Druj retain the treasure, then [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Drudges|creatures]] of ''Brokenhull'' will enter the region. They won't prove a threat to armies, but it would require some opportunity to remove them and would be yet [[Everything is trying to kill us|another problem]] for those trying to settle Sarangrave. If the treasure can be recovered, then it will take central pride of place in the tourney grounds. And if it can't, then ''Flyingfish'' will keep looking for another piece of treasure that can be recovered from dangerous enemies...

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T12:06:06Z

Kirkbride: /* Spring */

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T11:52:36Z

Kirkbride: /* Saturday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Fire_The_Forests_(Ossium)|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 20 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Do_Some_Harm_(Arhallogen)|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]]|| Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

Chains from the deep

2026-07-22T11:47:33Z

Kirkbride: Created page with "Category:388YE SummerCategory:Winds of Fortune {{SOPInner|statement=At the Autumn Equinox 387YE, the League National Assembly recognised the Great Chain of Sarvos as an Inspirational Location for it had repelled repeated assaults by idolatrous pirates. I beseech the Assembly to grant a Writ of Consecration so that the Great Chains may be blessed by the True Liao that was provided by the Sun Chamber for this purpose. The Great Chain stands as a marvel of ingenuity..."

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]]
{{SOPInner|statement=At the Autumn Equinox 387YE, the League National Assembly recognised the Great Chain of Sarvos as an Inspirational Location for it had repelled repeated assaults by idolatrous pirates. I beseech the Assembly to grant a Writ of Consecration so that the Great Chains may be blessed by the True Liao that was provided by the Sun Chamber for this purpose. The Great Chain stands as a marvel of ingenuity and engineering whilst embodying the tenet of 'Prepare for Malice, Yet Thwart Malice Before It Strikes Against You'.|by=Estella Lucati,Vigilance Assembly|vote={{GM}} 396-0|when=Spring 388YE}}
<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Rusty chain segments.jpg|align=left|width=350}}</div>
==Overview==
The Vigilance Assembly have seen the [[Sarvos#The_Great_Chain|Great Chain of Sarvos]] as an inspiration to all those who prepare for malice, as is a long tradition for the Synod dating back to the recognition of the [[the Sentinel]]. Now, with a dose of true liao secured from the [[Sun Chamber]], the Assembly seeks to make it a true place of pilgrimage.

Many Vigilant Sarvosi have come forward with proposals and support for their great chain. More than a few are keen to use this opportunity to try to edge the city back into a position where they could begin to contest for the title of "Greatest City in the League".

==Preparation==
* '''The Great Chain can be consecrated with a dose of true liao creating a powerful aura of Vigilance that inspires every citizen entering or leaving the city via the sea'''
* '''The aura would permanently double the benefits of any wains spent to resupply the Great Chain, to repair the bastion or resupply the garrison'''
[[Sarvos]] is, appropriately, already very well fortified. But the inevitable concern then becomes the ability to hold out a prolonged siege by the [[Grendel]] (or potentially even [[Iron Confederacy|Suranni]]) if Imperial armies are spread to the far east and west as they are at the moment. A constant steam of pilgrims, especially the local wealthy merchant princes, might be encouraged to put their hands in their pockets or even take up arms to help in a time of great need.
{{Mandate|mandate=Prepare for Malice! We send (named individual) with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Great Chain of Sarvos to remind all of the importance of preparation, in the inspiring legacy of the Sentinel.|assembly=General Assembly}}
If this mandate is enacted, then it will create a powerful spiritual aura that settles over the chains of Sarvos, reminding every vessel that sails into the harbour of the importance of Vigilance. It will inspire every inhabitant of the city who takes a promenade along the sea front where the huge blocks that support the chain are visible rising out of the water.

If that happens then in future, any wains used for emergency resupply on the Great Chain will provide twice the normal benefit. Pilgrims and locals alike will dig deep to provide their own resources to support efforts to rebuild the bastion, while bravos and free companies will be driven to put aside their dissolute ways and sign up with the local garrison to replenish its strength.

==Prestige==
<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Cathedral of Links'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Sinecure</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Cigno, Sarvos</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 20 white granite, and 60 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Creates the title Bishop of the Links</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Great Chain to be consecrated with true liao
* Any number of additional wains can be spent on the [[Edifice#Grandeur|grandeur]] of this building
* Labour costs increase by 3 crowns for each additional wain of white granite, mithril or weirwood spent to construct the Cathedral of Links
* Citizens of Sarvos will provide their own wains to match those spent on the ''grandeur'' of the new Cathedral
</td></tr>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Bishop of Links'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial or League National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Vigilance Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives in income of 18 liao per season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To guide the Pilgrims visiting the great Chain of Sarvos
* To see to the defence of the Cathedral and the Great Chain itself
* To ensure that the people of Sarvos remain vigilant against all threats</td></tr>
<tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''A grand cathedral would help to restore the prestige of the city'''
* '''If the Great Chain is consecrated, residents will support the grandeur of a new place of worship'''
Sarvos is home to the awe-inspiring [[Sarvos#Capodomus_Cathedral|Capodomus Cathedral]], the most stunning cathedral outside of Bastion and in the minds of many Sarvosi, the most beautiful cathedral anywhere in the world. Richly decorated and adorned with beautiful art, it celebrates one of the things that makes Sarvos so special. Holberg can ''currently'' claim to be the greatest city in the world, but the inhabitants of Sarvos would argue that their city is far and away the most beautiful. Capodomus Cathedral is consecrated to [[Ambition]] and serves to inspire the faithful all over the Empire. Followers of the Way from across the Empire come here to see its awe-inspiring majesty and experience the uplifting power of Ambition.

Dedicating the Great Chain to Vigilance would mean a second public site in the city with a true liao dedication. Pilgrims won't exactly be able to linger near the Great Chain, but why not knock down some of the older buildings on the main dock and build a grand new cathedral there? It would be the first thing that sailors putting into port would see and ideally placed as the last site to visit for anyone getting ready to depart.

A simple church could be built there that would suffice to minister to the needs of the Vigilant arriving or departing from the city. That would create a title the Bishop of Links that would be appointed by the Vigilance Assembly, but the building would not really be suitable to be called a ''cathedral''. To make that claim it would need to be a much larger, more grand edifice, something that would be truly inspirational.

To that end, the building could be as grandiose as the League chooses to make it. Any number of ''additional'' wains could be added to the commission to make it larger, purely to add to it's [[Edifice#Grandeur|grandeur]]. That would drive up the labour costs, requiring an additional three crowns for every extra wain employed, but the building could make use of weirwood, white granite or mithril. Sarvosi architects consider themselves just as capable as their rivals in Holberg and are confident that they can work ''anything'' into the structure to make something truly stunning.

If the Great Chain was consecrated and a grandiose new cathedral built then it would inspire the wealthy inhabitants of Sarvos to ''also'' contribute. Rich merchant princes and other wealthy patrons looking to leave a legacy would purchase their own wains to donate to the building. The grandeur of the final construction would be approximately double the number of wains employed by the players to build it.

The consecration must be done this season or the moment will be lost, but work could begin on the cathedral at any time up to a year afterwards. If the city employed that time to prepare, then a few Sarvosi are openly asking if such a point might not be used to trigger a new contest between the cities of the League. It would be nice to get a head start on the boastful Holbergers once people are good and ready for a rematch and might not a grand cathedral part funded by the inhabitants of the city be just the edge Sarvos needs to knock those braggarts off their perch?

==Precaution==
<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Expand the Chain of Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Cigno, Sarvos</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 60 wains of white granite and 180 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 2 seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Requires the Great Chain to be consecrated with true liao</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect'''
* Allows fleets to take the guarding action to support the fortification
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''If the Great Chain is consecrated, the defences could be upgraded to allow fleets to guard the fortification'''
If the mandate to consecrate the Great Chain is enacted, it will inevitably generate interest in additional investment in the defences of the city. Vigilant architects have been spurred on to consider designs to connect the fortification to the shoreline, in ways that would allow Imperial [[fleet|fleets]] to contribute to the defence of the city by guarding the Great Chain the next time Sarvos inevitably draws the attention of pirates on the Bay of Catazar.

It's not cheap, and unprecedented in recent times, but the ingenious builders are only encouraged by the idea to be the ''first'' to manage it. At the very least, the ambitious and profoundly competitive Sarvosi can't let the Highborn one territory over [[The_last_assignment#White_Sails|outdo them]] in the noble pursuit of a Vigilant defence of the Bay of Catazar.

==Provocation==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Skathe001.webp|align=left|width=300}}</div>
* '''Skathe has offered to help secure the city in the most spiteful way she can'''
* '''If the League embrace her offer and provide 1000 measures, she will add a cruel curse to the Great Chain to increase the casualties caused if the regions protected by the Great Chain are attacked'''

In a move that shocks many, a haggard and seemingly partially melted herald of [[Skathe|The Maiden of Broken Mirrors]] approaches a gathering of bishops discussing the matter in the shadow of one of the battlements. Apparently, given that the Empire recognises [[Speak_to_me#Pale_Empress|how small a part she played]] in the whole matter with a certain troublesome coven of [[Highguard]] a few years ago, she is inclined to offer her aid to the Sarvosi.

To be clear, she understands that there are still likely many citizens of the League who hold a seething, bitter resentment towards her, as is right and proper. Those who forgive and forget too easily need to be constantly reminded of how hard life can be. But there is a bitter canker in the minds of many Sarvosi, which the ''Lady of Laments'' appreciates. She has long approved of the traditions of the [[The_League_culture_and_customs#Dead_Reckoning|dead reckoning]] and the spite that fills the hearts of those who are outplayed in the cut-throat politics of the five cities.

If the League National Assembly are willing to pass a [[statement of principle]] with a greater majority, declaring her a worthy player of the Great Game, then she would be prepared to contribute her own spiteful addition to the defences of the City. She doesn't expect them to acknowledge that she won the last round of their exchanges, merely applaud her efforts to participate in the Great Game with them.

If that happens, she will send two of her heralds to help increase its efficacy. If provided with a suitable sum of 500 [[tempest jade]] and 500 [[beggar's lye]], a coating of sticky bile can be placed down the entire length of the chain to channel the power and despite of the ''Baroness of all Pains''. That will increase its ability to cause casualties by an equivalent strength of 2,000 when a region protected by the Chains is attacked. She will have her heralds maintain this power until she is either put under [[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] of the Conclave, or she is asked to stop, whichever happens first.

Should the League decide to accept this offer from ''Her Imperial Majesty of Cares'', then she will make the appropriate arrangements so that any citizen of the Empire can donate the costs just as they would with any normal commission ('''OOC Note:''' players could transfer tempest jade or beggars lye from their inventory to the curse).

<ic>
"Skathe? The eternal of spite? The one who shattered the mirrors of Sarvos. Not everyone has forgotten how the Hag Queen attacked our beautiful city. Sensible folk ''hate'' her. We ''loathe'' her. If there were any good sense in the Conclave they would slam the door in her face" Gianmarco, Bishop of the Stevedores Taphouse was struggling for words caught between shock and anger.

"Yes", hissed the misshapen herald who had approached the group. "Precisely so... And the ''Giver of Gifts'' applauds your righteous indignation. Your fury is a balm to her constant pain. Please never change. My mistress seeks not to bury our feud but to cherish it."
</ic>

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T11:39:11Z

Kirkbride: /* In the Charnel Pit */

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===The Keys of Blood===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble'''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run-up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

File:Rusty chain segments.jpg

2026-07-22T11:27:49Z

Kirkbride: == Summary == {{Wikimedia}} Islander61, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons

== Summary ==
{{Wikimedia}}

Islander61, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T11:16:55Z

Kirkbride: /* Saturday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Fire_The_Forests_(Ossium)|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 10 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Do_Some_Harm_(Arhallogen)|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]]|| Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T11:16:23Z

Kirkbride: /* Night */

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T11:13:42Z

Kirkbride: /* Friday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Fire_The_Forests_(Ossium)|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 10 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[LINK|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]]|| Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T11:12:40Z

Kirkbride: /* Day */

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T11:09:26Z

Kirkbride:

File:Sinokenon and You.pdf

2026-07-22T11:00:50Z

Kirkbride: Original work by Wrenna Robson

== Summary ==
Original work by Wrenna Robson

In the charnel pit

2026-07-22T10:49:38Z

Kirkbride: /* Prosperity */

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Highest Calling]]
<quote by="Esther, of the Watchers of Belial">
"I have stood in the charnel pit where the enemy spilled the blood of the Virtuous. I have looked into the eyes of those whose souls have been ground to dust. I have experienced the fear that floods the mind of those who suffer the rule of the Druj. I too felt the blood in my veins turn to ice. I too felt my Courage melt like wax before a hot flame. I too, felt Virtue drain from my body and my soul.

I promise you that no good can come of the path this Assembly has set itself upon. Turn aside. Turn aside ''now'' - before it is too late. The Silent Bell exists to warn the Empire of the dangers that lurk in the shadows. This! This is the danger. And the shadows it lurks in are our own souls.

This Assembly preaches that the Virtuous face unwelcome truths as boldly as any barbarian charge. Surely you say, we must face this truth, no matter how unwelcome. Surely we must embrace it, no matter how painful. Surely we must learn from it, no matter the suffering it brings?

This is a lie! I will tell you the ''real'' "unwelcome truth". The truth is we do '''not''' need the skills of the Buruk Tepel. We want them. We do '''not''' need the hidden lore of the Buruk Tepel. We want it. We do not ''need'' their almanacs and recipes. We want them.

Why do we want these things? To become better healers? More lies. The Buruk Tepel know how to kill, they know nothing about healing. They know how to poison the spirit, they don't know how to heal it. They know how to destroy the souls of those they enslave, they know nothing of Virtue and rebirth. We will not learn these things from the Buruk Tepel.

The unwelcome truth is that we want this lore for the same reason people have always wanted lore. Curiosity. Hunger. Desire. The unwelcome truth is that we want this lore because we want to use it. The unwelcome truth is that we want the ability to emulate the Buruk Tepel.

Virtue is not knowledge. There is no Virtue in simply knowing things. Virtue is action. I implore this assembly to take action. Turn aside. Turn aside now, before it is too late. Place this knowledge beyond the reach of mortal hands. There are some things that mortals were not meant to know. The lore of the Buruk Tepel is one of these things. Turn aside now! Let us wipe the Druj from this world and let the lore of the Buruk Tepel die with them.
</quote>
<div style="float: left; width: 300px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Naught but ash.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
==Overview==
Eight assemblies found their [[The highest calling|highest calling]] at the Spring Equinox, but it is the assemblies of [[Courage]] and [[Prosperity]] who have chosen the pastoral path - seeking to aid those peoples in the greatest need.

The Prosperous see that there were places in the Empire that are not benefiting from the same wealth and opportunity as they should be. At any given time there is always part of the Empire wracked by war or ravaged by magic, but some places are string enough, lucky enough, or simply have rich enough friends and allies to recover. Not everyone has been so fortunate and '''Heilyn Bronwen's Rest''' has called upon all who might hear to see those who need help, and help them.

The Courageous see the damage to those whose lives have been lived under the smothering cruelty of fear. '''Ada of House Meliora''' has proposed that the Empire see what can be done to alleviate the woes of those who spent their lives suffocating under the pressure of [[Druj miasma]].
<div style="float: left; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|width=300px}}</div>
==Prosperity==
{{SOP|statement=The Empire has grown, but not without great costs. Many of the lands and people within it bear scars from the conflicts which have been brought to them, or from the actions of those who held power before. We call upon the Prosperous to look for opportunities that will help to bring Prosperity to the damaged territories of the Empire and the people within them. Strive, toil and claim your just rewards - and give those who deserve it the chance to strive, toil and claim in their own turn. This is the Highest Calling of the Prosperity Assembly.|by=Heilyn Bronwen's Rest, Prosperity Assembly|vote={{GM}} 241-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
* '''The Prosperity Assembly can use a mandate each summit for the next year to identify a single territory they wish to aid'''
* '''The mandate will lead to an opportunity for the Prosperous to meet the costs of helping the territory to rebuild'''
* '''Any opportunity will be a chance to help others become more Prosperous, rather than to benefit themselves'''

There are many places alluded to by Heilyn that may benefit from help. There are lands that still feel the aftershocks of the invasion by [[Cold Sun]]. There are places all across the East of the Empire that the wicked [[Druj]] have left in ruins. The territory of [[Feroz]] still languishes in poverty following the corrupt rule of Governor Rahab. For the coming year, the Prosperity Assembly may choose a place in the Empire for the generous to focus their attention.
{{Mandate|mandate=Let none in our Empire be left without! We send (named individual) with 25 doses of liao to (territory) to ensure that all that is worthwhile is shared with those who need it.|assembly=Prosperity Assembly}}

Led by the named priest, pilgrims will travel to the named territory to see what can be done. Of course ''every'' territory in the Empire has suffered from the impact of war and misfortune at ''some'' point in the Empire's history, but the more ''lasting'' the damage, the more ''recent'' the damage, the easier it will be for the Assembly of Prosperity to find effective ways to help.

Each season, the [[civil service]] will assess the efforts of those who make the pilgrimage and present a single [[opportunity]] to restore the dignity, freedom and prosperity that the [[Imperial Constitution]] guarantees them. There will be at least one chance for the Assembly of Prosperity to help lift people up, to help restore their Prosperity, but it will not be cheap. If the Assembly want to help others, people less fortunate than themselves, they will need to dig deep to do it.
<div style="float: left; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Courage.png|width=300px}}</div>

==Courage==
{{SOP|statement=The Druj threat is not ended until every soul affected is freed of the fear they have wielded. It is our duty as priests of Courage to not only shed light upon the courageous but to also walk the fearful out of darkness. Let us learn everything we can about the auras of fear, how they have been created and how we can best combat them, that we may work spiritually to liberate the sept of the Sarangrave from their cruel captors once and for all. This is our highest calling.|by=Ada of House Meliora, Courage Assembly|vote={{GM}} 202-10|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
===The Heart===
* '''The Silent Bell report on how the Druj create auras of fear will be published in time for the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''''Earl Adel de Òrdraig'' and ''Gaelen Embercast'' each possess a copy of the report'''
* '''The Assembly can use the time before the Autumn Equinox to gather the information that will not be in the cardinals' report'''
* '''Once the Assembly has gathered all the information they can, they can decide what step to take next in pursuit of their highest calling'''

Two copies of the [[Silent_Bell_(Sodality)|Silent Bell]] report on the use of fear as a weapon by the [[Druj]] are in circulation at Anvil. One copy was given to the former cardinal, '''Gaelen Embercast''', and one to the new cardinal, '''Earl Adel de Òrdraig'''. That report contains the most up-to-date information the Empire has about auras of fear, and how they are created. Everything the Empire can learn from the Druj about fear is in that report.

The report has not been published yet; Gaelen or Adel are within their rights to share the report with any they wish, but the civil service is still preparing the work to be circulated more generally. That will only happen in time for the Autumn Equinox - once that happens the Empire will be in a better position to take practical steps. Given that that report will not be public knowledge until Autumn, it is not yet possible to take concrete steps to build on the knowledge it contains.

However, what the report does not include is anything about how the Empire might combat the auras of fear. The Silent Bell were never going to learn ''that'' from the Druj. Likewise, the Druj have nothing to say about how the Empire might liberate those who have suffered under the imposition of fear. While the Assembly waits to discover what can be learned from the report on fear, produced by the Silent Bell, it makes sense to focus on those things that would otherwise be conspicuous by their absence.

Those looking to help heal the ones who have suffered the crippling effects of fear might be interested in supporting the [[Silver Chalice]] [[Grace_that_comes_with_healing#Harmony_in_Mind_and_Body|work with Ylenwe]] to expand the list of maladies they have the ability to treat.

When it comes to recovering from living under the malice of miasma pillars, it is the people like the Sandfishers, the Yerende, or the Ketsov who would be best able to testify on what it is like to learn how to live without the crushing weight of the Druj yoke on their shoulders. A lecture will be available to the Synod following the Summer Solstice. '''Courage in Convalescence''' which will see priests go and speak to these groups to hear their accounts of what it has been like to make the transition.

Priests who partake will compile a summary of various accounts in time for the Autumn Equinox, and become members of the Courage Assembly. This report will not contain any particular action points, commissions or actions that the machinery of state might employ to dispel fear, but will instead help priests understand the dark scars in the hearts of those who suffered the cruelty of the Buruk Tepel. The hope is that it will help make them more able to provide pastoral support to those they hope to liberate.

Bringing the two reports together for the Autumn Equinox will put the Assembly in the strongest possible position to take action. Once they have learned everything that can be discovered, then they can assess the options available to them and consider what steps they want to take next in pursuit of their highest calling.

===The Hand===
<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''First Light Refuge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Hope's Rest, The Barrens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 12 [[white granite]], 36 crowns and one season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 6 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
*Creates a first stop in the east to organise and distribute ex-Druj citizens across the Proffered Had Network for long-term recovery and rehabilitation
*Creates the title Lantern Keeper of First Light Refuge'''
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''The Lantern Keeper of First Light Refuge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial Position</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Courage Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To welcome former slaves to the First Light Refuge
* To organise the protection of the First Light Refuge and the people they shelter against any threats
* To promote the liberation of the oppressed from all the lands that border the Empire</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''Supporters of the Proffered Hand call on the Empire to create a new edifice purely to serve the interests of those who have suffered the most'''
The most prominent group in the Empire that consistently works to offer succour to those who have suffered the imposition of slavery or the rule of the Druj is the Proffered Hand Network. Through various offices, the [[Lady of the Proffered Hand]], the [[Abbess of Reconciliation]], the [[Curator of Memories]], the [[Guide to the Lost]], the [[Hearthtender of the Unbroken]], and the [[Hand to the Dance]], the Proffered Hand reaches out to offer shelter and support to those who need it most.

But one criticism of the network is that it focuses too much on integrating former slaves into Imperial life, too much on finding them employment and work within the network - and not enough on the physical wellbeing of those it aims to help. The Abbess of Reconciliation receives an income of herbs each season from the Abbey that could be provided to those who need it most. Sinecures and ministries may provide an effective return on investment, but that is categorically not the best way to help people who desperately need support and assistance.

To counter these arguments, proposals are put together for a central hub in Hope's Rest in the Barrens to connect and support the various offices and estates of the Proffered Hand. Close enough to the Mallum to act as a first port of call for those who escape or are rescued from the clutches of the Druj, it would ensure that they had the means to outfit themselves for their new lives in the Empire.

As a purely charitable organisation, the First Light Refuge would be expensive to run - the commission would be modest, but it would provide no benefits to the Empire, and would have an upkeep of six thrones a season. The benefits would be to those the Proffered Hand wanted to help - ensuring they had what they needed to make a fresh start.

Hope's Rest would be the perfect location for the Refuge to help the people of the Mallum. Of course, if the Empire were ever in a position to try and help liberate the people of [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|the Broken Shore]], or the [[Iron Confederacy]], [[Otkodov]], [[Jotun|Narkyst, or Kalsea]] then they would likely build new refuges on those borders. Saving people is not cheap, but can you really put a price on Virtue.

Indeed, the first people who would be most served by the refuge arrive in the Empire only a few days before the Summer Solstice. Roughly a thousand people who had never been to the Empire were rescued from [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen|Leen]]. The Freeborn, and the other nations on the Bay of Catazar, are helping these people come to terms with what they have been through, but that can only take them so far. The question of how to best help these people will come up again in the coming seasons, and the Refuge would be an excellent way of preparing for the worst. But more on that in the {{TBC}} wind.

===The Soul===
* '''The Empire cannot learn how the Druj create auras of fear without learning how to create auras of fear'''
* '''Esther urges the Assembly of Courage to turn aside from this path they are on'''
* '''The General Assembly could enact a mandate to make it impossible for Imperial citizens to gain access to the secret lore of the Druj'''

For a long time, many have believed that the best way for the Empire to learn more about the use of fear and how to counter it ''might'' be to capture or convince one or more of the Buruk Tepel to share their secrets. Not only how they employ fear, but how they protect themselves from it with their mysterious mastery of the arts of the apothecary. Indeed, some years ago [[Three_and_three#Wise_Rangara|Wise Rangara posited]] that conquering the Druj could be the most practical way for the Empire to gain access to these secrets.

Not everyone is still convinced this is the best path, no matter what ''Pale Raven'' says. Esther of the Watchers of Belial was one of the few members of the Silent Bell to return from Druj lands. Their experiences form part of the report the cardinals received, but that document is academic and dry. Stripped of emotion, by necessity, Esther feels it fails to convey the horror of what the Druj have accomplished. Recovering slowly from the experience of months spent in Druj lands, she urges the Assembly of Courage to turn aside from further pursuit of the Druj secrets.

According to Esther, what the Empire knows now is more than enough to counter the Druj weapon. There is nothing ''Virtuous'' to be gained from further knowledge, which is not to say there is nothing more to learn. Her point is that the Empire cannot learn how the Druj create auras of fear without possessing the same knowledge that the Druj. They can't discover ''how'' the Druj can torture and immiserate the people they conquer - without discovering how to do that themselves.

Esther believes, passionately, that this would be a mistake. That this knowledge will doom the Empire - that it would be better by far to let the knowledge die with the Druj. She implores the General Assembly to pass the following mandate.

{{Mandate|mandate=Wisdom is not always knowing the answer. We send (named priest) with 150 liao to urge every Imperial citizen to forego the secret knowledge of the Druj. Wisdom is finding the right question. Let the art of creating fear die with them.|assembly=General Assembly}}

The report that the cardinals provides an overview of how the Druj create fear auras, but it does not contain enough knowledge to reproduce the techniques. If this mandate is enacted, then it will close the door on opportunities to learn the skills, the techniques, and the actual potion recipes that the Druj use to do that.

When the last Druj is slain, the skills they spent centuries acquiring will die with them. This mandate will not affect Wintermark, Varushka or Urizen unless it passes with a greater majority. Those nations will still gain chances to acquire the skills of the Buruk Tepel, if the mandate does not get a greater majority.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T10:40:03Z

Kirkbride: /* The Keys of Blood */

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===The Keys of Blood===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble'''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run-up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T10:39:46Z

Kirkbride: /* Arratan Surety (Estavus) */

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T10:39:15Z

Kirkbride: /* An Unexpected Ally (Basileia) */

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T10:28:30Z

Kirkbride: /* Conjunctions */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 10 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[LINK|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]]|| Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:25 || colspan="6" | No bows or crossbows after this time
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

In the charnel pit

2026-07-22T10:25:12Z

Kirkbride: /* The Hand */

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Highest Calling]]
<quote by="Esther, of the Watchers of Belial">
"I have stood in the charnel pit where the enemy spilled the blood of the Virtuous. I have looked into the eyes of those whose souls have been ground to dust. I have experienced the fear that floods the mind of those who suffer the rule of the Druj. I too felt the blood in my veins turn to ice. I too felt my Courage melt like wax before a hot flame. I too, felt Virtue drain from my body and my soul.

I promise you that no good can come of the path this Assembly has set itself upon. Turn aside. Turn aside ''now'' - before it is too late. The Silent Bell exists to warn the Empire of the dangers that lurk in the shadows. This! This is the danger. And the shadows it lurks in are our own souls.

This Assembly preaches that the Virtuous face unwelcome truths as boldly as any barbarian charge. Surely you say, we must face this truth, no matter how unwelcome. Surely we must embrace it, no matter how painful. Surely we must learn from it, no matter the suffering it brings?

This is a lie! I will tell you the ''real'' "unwelcome truth". The truth is we do '''not''' need the skills of the Buruk Tepel. We want them. We do '''not''' need the hidden lore of the Buruk Tepel. We want it. We do not ''need'' their almanacs and recipes. We want them.

Why do we want these things? To become better healers? More lies. The Buruk Tepel know how to kill, they know nothing about healing. They know how to poison the spirit, they don't know how to heal it. They know how to destroy the souls of those they enslave, they know nothing of Virtue and rebirth. We will not learn these things from the Buruk Tepel.

The unwelcome truth is that we want this lore for the same reason people have always wanted lore. Curiosity. Hunger. Desire. The unwelcome truth is that we want this lore because we want to use it. The unwelcome truth is that we want the ability to emulate the Buruk Tepel.

Virtue is not knowledge. There is no Virtue in simply knowing things. Virtue is action. I implore this assembly to take action. Turn aside. Turn aside now, before it is too late. Place this knowledge beyond the reach of mortal hands. There are some things that mortals were not meant to know. The lore of the Buruk Tepel is one of these things. Turn aside now! Let us wipe the Druj from this world and let the lore of the Buruk Tepel die with them.
</quote>
<div style="float: left; width: 300px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Naught but ash.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
==Overview==
Eight assemblies found their [[The highest calling|highest calling]] at the Spring Equinox, but it is the assemblies of [[Courage]] and [[Prosperity]] who have chosen the pastoral path - seeking to aid those peoples in the greatest need.

The Prosperous see that there were places in the Empire that are not benefiting from the same wealth and opportunity as they should be. At any given time there is always part of the Empire wracked by war or ravaged by magic, but some places are string enough, lucky enough, or simply have rich enough friends and allies to recover. Not everyone has been so fortunate and '''Heilyn Bronwen's Rest''' has called upon all who might hear to see those who need help, and help them.

The Courageous see the damage to those whose lives have been lived under the smothering cruelty of fear. '''Ada of House Meliora''' has proposed that the Empire see what can be done to alleviate the woes of those who spent their lives suffocating under the pressure of [[Druj miasma]].
<div style="float: left; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|width=300px}}</div>
==Prosperity==
{{SOP|statement=The Empire has grown, but not without great costs. Many of the lands and people within it bear scars from the conflicts which have been brought to them, or from the actions of those who held power before. We call upon the Prosperous to look for opportunities that will help to bring Prosperity to the damaged territories of the Empire and the people within them. Strive, toil and claim your just rewards - and give those who deserve it the chance to strive, toil and claim in their own turn. This is the Highest Calling of the Prosperity Assembly.|by=Heilyn Bronwen's Rest, Prosperity Assembly|vote={{GM}} 241-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
* '''The Prosperity Assembly can use a mandate each summit for the next year to identify a single territory they wish to aid'''
* '''The mandate will lead to an opportunity for the Prosperous to meet the costs of helping the territory to rebuild'''
* '''Any opportunity will be a chance to help others become more Prosperous, rather than to benefit themselves'''

There are many places alluded to by Heilyn that may benefit from help. There are lands that still feel the aftershocks of the invasion by [[Cold Sun]]. There are places all across the East of the Empire that the wicked [[Druj]] have left in ruins. The territory of [[Feroz]] still languishes in poverty following the corrupt rule of Governor Rahab. For the coming year, the Prosperity Assembly may choose a place in the Empire for the generous to focus their attention.
{{Mandate|mandate=Let none in our Empire be left without! We send (named individual) with X doses of liao to (territory) to ensure that all that is worthwhile is shared with those who need it.|assembly=Prosperity Assembly}}

Led by the named priest, pilgrims will travel to the named territory to see what can be done. Of course ''every'' territory in the Empire has suffered from the impact of war and misfortune at ''some'' point in the Empire's history, but the more ''lasting'' the damage, the more ''recent'' the damage, the easier it will be for the Assembly of Prosperity to find effective ways to help.

Each season, the [[civil service]] will assess the efforts of those who make the pilgrimage and present a single [[opportunity]] to restore the dignity, freedom and prosperity that the [[Imperial Constitution]] guarantees them. There will be at least one chance for the Assembly of Prosperity to help lift people up, to help restore their Prosperity, but it will not be cheap. If the Assembly want to help others, people less fortunate than themselves, they will need to dig deep to do it.
<div style="float: left; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Courage.png|width=300px}}</div>
==Courage==
{{SOP|statement=The Druj threat is not ended until every soul affected is freed of the fear they have wielded. It is our duty as priests of Courage to not only shed light upon the courageous but to also walk the fearful out of darkness. Let us learn everything we can about the auras of fear, how they have been created and how we can best combat them, that we may work spiritually to liberate the sept of the Sarangrave from their cruel captors once and for all. This is our highest calling.|by=Ada of House Meliora, Courage Assembly|vote={{GM}} 202-10|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
===The Heart===
* '''The Silent Bell report on how the Druj create auras of fear will be published in time for the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''''Earl Adel de Òrdraig'' and ''Gaelen Embercast'' each possess a copy of the report'''
* '''The Assembly can use the time before the Autumn Equinox to gather the information that will not be in the cardinals' report'''
* '''Once the Assembly has gathered all the information they can, they can decide what step to take next in pursuit of their highest calling'''

Two copies of the [[Silent_Bell_(Sodality)|Silent Bell]] report on the use of fear as a weapon by the [[Druj]] are in circulation at Anvil. One copy was given to the former cardinal, '''Gaelen Embercast''', and one to the new cardinal, '''Earl Adel de Òrdraig'''. That report contains the most up-to-date information the Empire has about auras of fear, and how they are created. Everything the Empire can learn from the Druj about fear is in that report.

The report has not been published yet; Gaelen or Adel are within their rights to share the report with any they wish, but the civil service is still preparing the work to be circulated more generally. That will only happen in time for the Autumn Equinox - once that happens the Empire will be in a better position to take practical steps. Given that that report will not be public knowledge until Autumn, it is not yet possible to take concrete steps to build on the knowledge it contains.

However, what the report does not include is anything about how the Empire might combat the auras of fear. The Silent Bell were never going to learn ''that'' from the Druj. Likewise, the Druj have nothing to say about how the Empire might liberate those who have suffered under the imposition of fear. While the Assembly waits to discover what can be learned from the report on fear, produced by the Silent Bell, it makes sense to focus on those things that would otherwise be conspicuous by their absence.

Those looking to help heal the ones who have suffered the crippling effects of fear might be interested in supporting the [[Silver Chalice]] [[Grace_that_comes_with_healing#Harmony_in_Mind_and_Body|work with Ylenwe]] to expand the list of maladies they have the ability to treat.

When it comes to recovering from living under the malice of miasma pillars, it is the people like the Sandfishers, the Yerende, or the Ketsov who would be best able to testify on what it is like to learn how to live without the crushing weight of the Druj yoke on their shoulders. A lecture will be available to the Synod following the Summer Solstice. '''Courage in Convalescence''' which will see priests go and speak to these groups to hear their accounts of what it has been like to make the transition.

Priests who partake will compile a summary of various accounts in time for the Autumn Equinox, and become members of the Courage Assembly. This report will not contain any particular action points, commissions or actions that the machinery of state might employ to dispel fear, but will instead help priests understand the dark scars in the hearts of those who suffered the cruelty of the Buruk Tepel. The hope is that it will help make them more able to provide pastoral support to those they hope to liberate.

Bringing the two reports together for the Autumn Equinox will put the Assembly in the strongest possible position to take action. Once they have learned everything that can be discovered, then they can assess the options available to them and consider what steps they want to take next in pursuit of their highest calling.

===The Hand===
<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''First Light Refuge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Hope's Rest, The Barrens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 12 [[white granite]], 36 crowns and one season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 6 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
*Creates a first stop in the east to organise and distribute ex-Druj citizens across the Proffered Had Network for long-term recovery and rehabilitation
*Creates the title Lantern Keeper of First Light Refuge'''
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''The Lantern Keeper of First Light Refuge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial Position</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Courage Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To welcome former slaves to the First Light Refuge
* To organise the protection of the First Light Refuge and the people they shelter against any threats
* To promote the liberation of the oppressed from all the lands that border the Empire</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''Supporters of the Proffered Hand call on the Empire to create a new edifice purely to serve the interests of those who have suffered the most'''
The most prominent group in the Empire that consistently works to offer succour to those who have suffered the imposition of slavery or the rule of the Druj is the Proffered Hand Network. Through various offices, the [[Lady of the Proffered Hand]], the [[Abbess of Reconciliation]], the [[Curator of Memories]], the [[Guide to the Lost]], the [[Hearthtender of the Unbroken]], and the [[Hand to the Dance]], the Proffered Hand reaches out to offer shelter and support to those who need it most.

But one criticism of the network is that it focuses too much on integrating former slaves into Imperial life, too much on finding them employment and work within the network - and not enough on the physical wellbeing of those it aims to help. The Abbess of Reconciliation receives an income of herbs each season from the Abbey that could be provided to those who need it most. Sinecures and ministries may provide an effective return on investment, but that is categorically not the best way to help people who desperately need support and assistance.

To counter these arguments, proposals are put together for a central hub in Hope's Rest in the Barrens to connect and support the various offices and estates of the Proffered Hand. Close enough to the Mallum to act as a first port of call for those who escape or are rescued from the clutches of the Druj, it would ensure that they had the means to outfit themselves for their new lives in the Empire.

As a purely charitable organisation, the First Light Refuge would be expensive to run - the commission would be modest, but it would provide no benefits to the Empire, and would have an upkeep of six thrones a season. The benefits would be to those the Proffered Hand wanted to help - ensuring they had what they needed to make a fresh start.

Hope's Rest would be the perfect location for the Refuge to help the people of the Mallum. Of course, if the Empire were ever in a position to try and help liberate the people of [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|the Broken Shore]], or the [[Iron Confederacy]], [[Otkodov]], [[Jotun|Narkyst, or Kalsea]] then they would likely build new refuges on those borders. Saving people is not cheap, but can you really put a price on Virtue.

Indeed, the first people who would be most served by the refuge arrive in the Empire only a few days before the Summer Solstice. Roughly a thousand people who had never been to the Empire were rescued from [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen|Leen]]. The Freeborn, and the other nations on the Bay of Catazar, are helping these people come to terms with what they have been through, but that can only take them so far. The question of how to best help these people will come up again in the coming seasons, and the Refuge would be an excellent way of preparing for the worst. But more on that in the {{TBC}} wind.

===The Soul===
* '''The Empire cannot learn how the Druj create auras of fear without learning how to create auras of fear'''
* '''Esther urges the Assembly of Courage to turn aside from this path they are on'''
* '''The General Assembly could enact a mandate to make it impossible for Imperial citizens to gain access to the secret lore of the Druj'''

For a long time, many have believed that the best way for the Empire to learn more about the use of fear and how to counter it ''might'' be to capture or convince one or more of the Buruk Tepel to share their secrets. Not only how they employ fear, but how they protect themselves from it with their mysterious mastery of the arts of the apothecary. Indeed, some years ago [[Three_and_three#Wise_Rangara|Wise Rangara posited]] that conquering the Druj could be the most practical way for the Empire to gain access to these secrets.

Not everyone is still convinced this is the best path, no matter what ''Pale Raven'' says. Esther of the Watchers of Belial was one of the few members of the Silent Bell to return from Druj lands. Their experiences form part of the report the cardinals received, but that document is academic and dry. Stripped of emotion, by necessity, Esther feels it fails to convey the horror of what the Druj have accomplished. Recovering slowly from the experience of months spent in Druj lands, she urges the Assembly of Courage to turn aside from further pursuit of the Druj secrets.

According to Esther, what the Empire knows now is more than enough to counter the Druj weapon. There is nothing ''Virtuous'' to be gained from further knowledge, which is not to say there is nothing more to learn. Her point is that the Empire cannot learn how the Druj create auras of fear without possessing the same knowledge that the Druj. They can't discover ''how'' the Druj can torture and immiserate the people they conquer - without discovering how to do that themselves.

Esther believes, passionately, that this would be a mistake. That this knowledge will doom the Empire - that it would be better by far to let the knowledge die with the Druj. She implores the General Assembly to pass the following mandate.

{{Mandate|mandate=Wisdom is not always knowing the answer. We send (named priest) with 150 liao to urge every Imperial citizen to forego the secret knowledge of the Druj. Wisdom is finding the right question. Let the art of creating fear die with them.|assembly=General Assembly}}

The report that the cardinals provides an overview of how the Druj create fear auras, but it does not contain enough knowledge to reproduce the techniques. If this mandate is enacted, then it will close the door on opportunities to learn the skills, the techniques, and the actual potion recipes that the Druj use to do that.

When the last Druj is slain, the skills they spent centuries acquiring will die with them. This mandate will not affect Wintermark, Varushka or Urizen unless it passes with a greater majority. Those nations will still gain chances to acquire the skills of the Buruk Tepel, if the mandate does not get a greater majority.

In the charnel pit

2026-07-22T10:24:55Z

Kirkbride: Created page with "Category:388YE SummerCategory:Winds of FortuneCategory:Highest Calling <quote by="Esther, of the Watchers of Belial"> "I have stood in the charnel pit where the enemy spilled the blood of the Virtuous. I have looked into the eyes of those whose souls have been ground to dust. I have experienced the fear that floods the mind of those who suffer the rule of the Druj. I too felt the blood in my veins turn to ice. I too felt my Courage melt like wax before a hot..."

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Highest Calling]]
<quote by="Esther, of the Watchers of Belial">
"I have stood in the charnel pit where the enemy spilled the blood of the Virtuous. I have looked into the eyes of those whose souls have been ground to dust. I have experienced the fear that floods the mind of those who suffer the rule of the Druj. I too felt the blood in my veins turn to ice. I too felt my Courage melt like wax before a hot flame. I too, felt Virtue drain from my body and my soul.

I promise you that no good can come of the path this Assembly has set itself upon. Turn aside. Turn aside ''now'' - before it is too late. The Silent Bell exists to warn the Empire of the dangers that lurk in the shadows. This! This is the danger. And the shadows it lurks in are our own souls.

This Assembly preaches that the Virtuous face unwelcome truths as boldly as any barbarian charge. Surely you say, we must face this truth, no matter how unwelcome. Surely we must embrace it, no matter how painful. Surely we must learn from it, no matter the suffering it brings?

This is a lie! I will tell you the ''real'' "unwelcome truth". The truth is we do '''not''' need the skills of the Buruk Tepel. We want them. We do '''not''' need the hidden lore of the Buruk Tepel. We want it. We do not ''need'' their almanacs and recipes. We want them.

Why do we want these things? To become better healers? More lies. The Buruk Tepel know how to kill, they know nothing about healing. They know how to poison the spirit, they don't know how to heal it. They know how to destroy the souls of those they enslave, they know nothing of Virtue and rebirth. We will not learn these things from the Buruk Tepel.

The unwelcome truth is that we want this lore for the same reason people have always wanted lore. Curiosity. Hunger. Desire. The unwelcome truth is that we want this lore because we want to use it. The unwelcome truth is that we want the ability to emulate the Buruk Tepel.

Virtue is not knowledge. There is no Virtue in simply knowing things. Virtue is action. I implore this assembly to take action. Turn aside. Turn aside now, before it is too late. Place this knowledge beyond the reach of mortal hands. There are some things that mortals were not meant to know. The lore of the Buruk Tepel is one of these things. Turn aside now! Let us wipe the Druj from this world and let the lore of the Buruk Tepel die with them.
</quote>
<div style="float: left; width: 300px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Naught but ash.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
==Overview==
Eight assemblies found their [[The highest calling|highest calling]] at the Spring Equinox, but it is the assemblies of [[Courage]] and [[Prosperity]] who have chosen the pastoral path - seeking to aid those peoples in the greatest need.

The Prosperous see that there were places in the Empire that are not benefiting from the same wealth and opportunity as they should be. At any given time there is always part of the Empire wracked by war or ravaged by magic, but some places are string enough, lucky enough, or simply have rich enough friends and allies to recover. Not everyone has been so fortunate and '''Heilyn Bronwen's Rest''' has called upon all who might hear to see those who need help, and help them.

The Courageous see the damage to those whose lives have been lived under the smothering cruelty of fear. '''Ada of House Meliora''' has proposed that the Empire see what can be done to alleviate the woes of those who spent their lives suffocating under the pressure of [[Druj miasma]].
<div style="float: left; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|width=300px}}</div>
==Prosperity==
{{SOP|statement=The Empire has grown, but not without great costs. Many of the lands and people within it bear scars from the conflicts which have been brought to them, or from the actions of those who held power before. We call upon the Prosperous to look for opportunities that will help to bring Prosperity to the damaged territories of the Empire and the people within them. Strive, toil and claim your just rewards - and give those who deserve it the chance to strive, toil and claim in their own turn. This is the Highest Calling of the Prosperity Assembly.|by=Heilyn Bronwen's Rest, Prosperity Assembly|vote={{GM}} 241-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
* '''The Prosperity Assembly can use a mandate each summit for the next year to identify a single territory they wish to aid'''
* '''The mandate will lead to an opportunity for the Prosperous to meet the costs of helping the territory to rebuild'''
* '''Any opportunity will be a chance to help others become more Prosperous, rather than to benefit themselves'''

There are many places alluded to by Heilyn that may benefit from help. There are lands that still feel the aftershocks of the invasion by [[Cold Sun]]. There are places all across the East of the Empire that the wicked [[Druj]] have left in ruins. The territory of [[Feroz]] still languishes in poverty following the corrupt rule of Governor Rahab. For the coming year, the Prosperity Assembly may choose a place in the Empire for the generous to focus their attention.
{{Mandate|mandate=Let none in our Empire be left without! We send (named individual) with X doses of liao to (territory) to ensure that all that is worthwhile is shared with those who need it.|assembly=Prosperity Assembly}}

Led by the named priest, pilgrims will travel to the named territory to see what can be done. Of course ''every'' territory in the Empire has suffered from the impact of war and misfortune at ''some'' point in the Empire's history, but the more ''lasting'' the damage, the more ''recent'' the damage, the easier it will be for the Assembly of Prosperity to find effective ways to help.

Each season, the [[civil service]] will assess the efforts of those who make the pilgrimage and present a single [[opportunity]] to restore the dignity, freedom and prosperity that the [[Imperial Constitution]] guarantees them. There will be at least one chance for the Assembly of Prosperity to help lift people up, to help restore their Prosperity, but it will not be cheap. If the Assembly want to help others, people less fortunate than themselves, they will need to dig deep to do it.
<div style="float: left; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Courage.png|width=300px}}</div>
==Courage==
{{SOP|statement=The Druj threat is not ended until every soul affected is freed of the fear they have wielded. It is our duty as priests of Courage to not only shed light upon the courageous but to also walk the fearful out of darkness. Let us learn everything we can about the auras of fear, how they have been created and how we can best combat them, that we may work spiritually to liberate the sept of the Sarangrave from their cruel captors once and for all. This is our highest calling.|by=Ada of House Meliora, Courage Assembly|vote={{GM}} 202-10|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
===The Heart===
* '''The Silent Bell report on how the Druj create auras of fear will be published in time for the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''''Earl Adel de Òrdraig'' and ''Gaelen Embercast'' each possess a copy of the report'''
* '''The Assembly can use the time before the Autumn Equinox to gather the information that will not be in the cardinals' report'''
* '''Once the Assembly has gathered all the information they can, they can decide what step to take next in pursuit of their highest calling'''

Two copies of the [[Silent_Bell_(Sodality)|Silent Bell]] report on the use of fear as a weapon by the [[Druj]] are in circulation at Anvil. One copy was given to the former cardinal, '''Gaelen Embercast''', and one to the new cardinal, '''Earl Adel de Òrdraig'''. That report contains the most up-to-date information the Empire has about auras of fear, and how they are created. Everything the Empire can learn from the Druj about fear is in that report.

The report has not been published yet; Gaelen or Adel are within their rights to share the report with any they wish, but the civil service is still preparing the work to be circulated more generally. That will only happen in time for the Autumn Equinox - once that happens the Empire will be in a better position to take practical steps. Given that that report will not be public knowledge until Autumn, it is not yet possible to take concrete steps to build on the knowledge it contains.

However, what the report does not include is anything about how the Empire might combat the auras of fear. The Silent Bell were never going to learn ''that'' from the Druj. Likewise, the Druj have nothing to say about how the Empire might liberate those who have suffered under the imposition of fear. While the Assembly waits to discover what can be learned from the report on fear, produced by the Silent Bell, it makes sense to focus on those things that would otherwise be conspicuous by their absence.

Those looking to help heal the ones who have suffered the crippling effects of fear might be interested in supporting the [[Silver Chalice]] [[Grace_that_comes_with_healing#Harmony_in_Mind_and_Body|work with Ylenwe]] to expand the list of maladies they have the ability to treat.

When it comes to recovering from living under the malice of miasma pillars, it is the people like the Sandfishers, the Yerende, or the Ketsov who would be best able to testify on what it is like to learn how to live without the crushing weight of the Druj yoke on their shoulders. A lecture will be available to the Synod following the Summer Solstice. '''Courage in Convalescence''' which will see priests go and speak to these groups to hear their accounts of what it has been like to make the transition.

Priests who partake will compile a summary of various accounts in time for the Autumn Equinox, and become members of the Courage Assembly. This report will not contain any particular action points, commissions or actions that the machinery of state might employ to dispel fear, but will instead help priests understand the dark scars in the hearts of those who suffered the cruelty of the Buruk Tepel. The hope is that it will help make them more able to provide pastoral support to those they hope to liberate.

Bringing the two reports together for the Autumn Equinox will put the Assembly in the strongest possible position to take action. Once they have learned everything that can be discovered, then they can assess the options available to them and consider what steps they want to take next in pursuit of their highest calling.

===The Hand===
<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''First Light Refuge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Hope's Rest, The Barrens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 12 [[white granite]], 36 crowns and one season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 6 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
*Creates a first stop in the east to organise and distribute ex-Druj citizens across the Proffered Had Network for long-term recovery and rehabilitation
*Creates the title Lantern Keeper of First Light Refuge'''
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''The Lantern Keeper of First Light Refuge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial Position</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Courage Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To welcome former slaves to the First Light Refuge
* To organise the protection of the First Light Refuge and the people they shelter against any threats
* To promote the liberation of the oppressed from all the lands that border the Empire</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''Supporters of the Proffered Hand call on the Empire to create a new edifice purely to serve the interests of those who have suffered the most'''
The most prominent group in the Empire that consistently works to offer succour to those who have suffered the imposition of slavery or the rule of the Druj is the Proffered Hand Network. Through various offices, the [[Lady of the Proffered Hand]], the [[Abbess of Reconciliation]], the [[Curator of Memories]], the [[Guide to the Lost]], the [[Hearthtender of the Unbroken]], and the [[Hand to the Dance]], the Proffered Hand reaches out to offer shelter and support to those who need it most.

But one criticism of the network is that it focuses too much on integrating former slaves into Imperial life, too much on finding them employment and work within the network - and not enough on the physical wellbeing of those it aims to help. The Abbess of Reconciliation receives an income of herbs each season from the Abbey that could be provided to those who need it most. Sinecures and ministries may provide an effective return on investment, but that is categorically not the best way to help people who desperately need support and assistance.

To counter these arguments, proposals are put together for a central hub in Hope's Rest in the Barrens to connect and support the various offices and estates of the Proffered Hand. Close enough to the Mallum to act as a first port of call for those who escape or are rescued from the clutches of the Druj, it would ensure that they had the means to outfit themselves for their new lives in the Empire.

As a purely charitable organisation, the First Light Refuge would be expensive to run - the commission would be modest, but it would provide no benefits to the Empire, and would have an upkeep of six thrones a season. The benefits would be to those the Proffered Hand wanted to help - ensuring they had what they needed to make a fresh start.

Hope's Rest would be the perfect location for the Refuge to help the people of the Mallum. Of course, if the Empire were ever in a position to try and help liberate the people of [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|the Broken Shore]], or the [[Iron Confederacy]], [[Otkodov]], [[Jotun|Narkyst, or Kalsea]] then they would likely build new refuges on those borders. Saving people is not cheap, but can you really put a price on Virtue.

Indeed, the first people who would be most served by the refuge arrive in the Empire only a few days before the Summer Solstice. Roughly a thousand people who had never been to the Empire were rescued from [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen|Leen]]. The Freeborn, and the other nations on the Bay of Catazar, are helping these people come to terms with what they have been through, but that can only take them so far. The question of how to best help these people will come up again in the coming seasons, and the Refuge would be an excellent way of preparing for the worst. But more on that in the {{TBC}} wind of fortune.

===The Soul===
* '''The Empire cannot learn how the Druj create auras of fear without learning how to create auras of fear'''
* '''Esther urges the Assembly of Courage to turn aside from this path they are on'''
* '''The General Assembly could enact a mandate to make it impossible for Imperial citizens to gain access to the secret lore of the Druj'''

For a long time, many have believed that the best way for the Empire to learn more about the use of fear and how to counter it ''might'' be to capture or convince one or more of the Buruk Tepel to share their secrets. Not only how they employ fear, but how they protect themselves from it with their mysterious mastery of the arts of the apothecary. Indeed, some years ago [[Three_and_three#Wise_Rangara|Wise Rangara posited]] that conquering the Druj could be the most practical way for the Empire to gain access to these secrets.

Not everyone is still convinced this is the best path, no matter what ''Pale Raven'' says. Esther of the Watchers of Belial was one of the few members of the Silent Bell to return from Druj lands. Their experiences form part of the report the cardinals received, but that document is academic and dry. Stripped of emotion, by necessity, Esther feels it fails to convey the horror of what the Druj have accomplished. Recovering slowly from the experience of months spent in Druj lands, she urges the Assembly of Courage to turn aside from further pursuit of the Druj secrets.

According to Esther, what the Empire knows now is more than enough to counter the Druj weapon. There is nothing ''Virtuous'' to be gained from further knowledge, which is not to say there is nothing more to learn. Her point is that the Empire cannot learn how the Druj create auras of fear without possessing the same knowledge that the Druj. They can't discover ''how'' the Druj can torture and immiserate the people they conquer - without discovering how to do that themselves.

Esther believes, passionately, that this would be a mistake. That this knowledge will doom the Empire - that it would be better by far to let the knowledge die with the Druj. She implores the General Assembly to pass the following mandate.

{{Mandate|mandate=Wisdom is not always knowing the answer. We send (named priest) with 150 liao to urge every Imperial citizen to forego the secret knowledge of the Druj. Wisdom is finding the right question. Let the art of creating fear die with them.|assembly=General Assembly}}

The report that the cardinals provides an overview of how the Druj create fear auras, but it does not contain enough knowledge to reproduce the techniques. If this mandate is enacted, then it will close the door on opportunities to learn the skills, the techniques, and the actual potion recipes that the Druj use to do that.

When the last Druj is slain, the skills they spent centuries acquiring will die with them. This mandate will not affect Wintermark, Varushka or Urizen unless it passes with a greater majority. Those nations will still gain chances to acquire the skills of the Buruk Tepel, if the mandate does not get a greater majority.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T10:23:38Z

Kirkbride: /* The Keys of Blood */

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===The Keys of Blood===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove;'''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run-up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T10:07:58Z

Kirkbride: /* Saturday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 10 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[LINK|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]]|| Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T09:48:51Z

Kirkbride: /* Saturday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || 10 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[LINK|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-22T09:15:11Z

Kirkbride: /* Timetable */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for 18:30 at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at 18:55 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at 18:30 in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at 18:55. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the [[Irra_Harah|''Prince with a Thousand Foes'']] without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Rumours persist that it was a member of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]], but Linley Weaver would do well to speak to the magistrates about the situation first.

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 18:30 & 18:55 || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-22T09:14:48Z

Kirkbride: /* Over Troubled Waters (Autumn) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for 18:30 at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at 18:55 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at 18:30 in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at 18:55. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the [[Irra_Harah|''Prince with a Thousand Foes'']] without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Rumours persist that it was a member of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]], but Linley Weaver would do well to speak to the magistrates about the situation first.

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-22T09:06:44Z

Kirkbride: /* Hare Protector */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for {{TBC}} at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at {{TBC}}.30 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at {{TBC}} in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at half past {{TBC}}. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the [[Irra_Harah|''Prince with a Thousand Foes'']] without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Rumours persist that it was a member of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]], but Linley Weaver would do well to speak to the magistrates about the situation first.

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T08:54:41Z

Kirkbride: /* Conjunctions */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || 15 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || 18 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || TBC || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[LINK|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || 35 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || 70 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

388YE Summer Solstice winds of war

2026-07-22T04:51:05Z

Kirkbride: /* Saturday */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Overseer Challenged.webp|align=left|caption=Those who sit highest have the furthest to fall|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the last three months, Imperial forces have engaged in military campaigns. Sometimes those engagements have been wide-ranging and dramatic, other times they have been more sedate. Where there has been dramatic action, or where there are [[opportunity|opportunities]], we've given a Wind of War its own page; other military actions are discussed here.

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 War and the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune|Winds of Fortune]] is to make players aware of things their characters ''should'' know, based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing, and to maintain the Empire as a living, breathing place where all kinds of events take place beyond the scope of [[Anvil]].

It should go without saying that we ask everyone to abide by the rules about [[Online_roleplaying|online roleplaying]] with regard to the military campaign. It's important that the key in-character activity of the Empire world takes place at events. The game is busier and better if everything that can happen in the field, does happen in the field. Military planning and political discussions should happen at events. For this reason, we generally discourage too much downtime roleplaying between events and put strict limits on what can be done online, particularly using our forums and Facebook groups.

All that said, we now present a summary of the key military activity in the Empire - both with links to the expanded Wind of War pages and notes about other important things that have happened that didn't need a full battle campaign write-up.

</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" style="width:400px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Conflict !! Wind
|-
| [[Madruga]] || [[Phantasms and foam]]
|-
| [[Mareave]] || [[Mithril and rope]]
|-
| [[Sarangrave]] || [[Thorn and bone]]
|-
| [[Forest of Ulnak]] ||[[Who can you trust?]]
|-
|}
</table>
==Battle opportunities==
Imperial prognosticators have identified three possible [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] at the coming summit. The [[Military Council]] will [[muster]] on Friday night, and the [[general|generals]] will select two of them to be taken up by Imperial heroes. At the moment, the full details of these opportunities are not clear; more information will be provided nearer to the event.

All battle opportunities are [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Combat Highly Likely]] environments.
<table><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Territory'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Day'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Learn More'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''CS Briefing'''</td>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave]]</td><td>Contain the dead</td><td>''Fens of Varreth'', Turan Flats</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Thorn_and_bone#Battle:_Harvester_of_Graves|Harvester of Graves]]</td><td>[[:File:Harvester_of_Graves.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Forest of Ulnak]]</td><td>Raid the Druj</td><td>''Fetid Heart'', Ghul'thak Forest</td><td>Druj</td><td>Either day</td><td>[[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Battle:_Claim_the_Prize|Claim the Prize]]</td><td>[[:File:Claim_the_Prize.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mareave]]</td><td>Open the Vaults</td><td>''Ruins of Sinat'', Clisearn</td><td>Grendel</td><td>Sunday</td><td>[[Mithril_and_rope#Battle:_Salt_and_Stone|Salt and Stone]]</td><td>[[:File:Salt_and_Stone.pdf|PDF Link]]</td></tr>
</table>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:300px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Force Weight
|-
| Brass Coast || 16
|-
| Dawn || 67
|-
| Highguard || 27
|-
| Imperial Orcs|| 7
|-
| League || 26
|-
| Marches || 26
|-
| Navarr || 59
|-
| Urizen || 13
|-
| Varushka || 18
|-
| Wintermark || 65
|}
The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night. The battle on Saturday must have at least '''162''' and at most '''166''' force weight sent on it. The battle on Sunday must have at least '''158''' and at most '''162''' force weight sent on it.

===Battle participation===
If you have your own [[orc]] mask please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field forces predominantly comprised of barbarian orcs. If you are unable to wear a mask, then all battle opportunities have limited roles for human barbarian combatants and low-combat roles such as healers, support mages, artisans, messengers and attendants. Player [[Monstering_a_battle#Elite_Monster_Units|elite monster units]] (EMUs) are expected to monster as their barbarian orc units regardless of the battle opportunity, and should not include human combatants.

* '''The Forest of Ulnak opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

* '''The Sarangrave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Druj orc fighters, with options for playing winter husks'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Druj orcs as normal. If you have your own [[orc]] mask, please do bring it along as we're keen to ensure we can field a force predominantly comprised of Druj orcs. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Druj weaponry, particularly swords, spears and great weapons, as well as bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Druj look [[Druj_look_and_feel|here]], but the key element for portraying the Druj is a mantle and ragged material layers that echo natural greens, browns, greys, and black, with occasional bright accent colours as their iconic look.

Winter husks have no special requirements and can be represented by basic costume, armour, and weapons (but not thrown or ranged weapons). This could be added to with costume from any Imperial nation that has recently fought in Sarangrave. Using rags and tattered fabric can also enhance the look. Please do not wear any form of undead or zombie mask, as we are aiming to portray the recently dead soliders of Imperial armies, not long decaying or rotting corpses.

* '''The Mareave opportunity involves forces composed primarily of Grendel orc soldiers'''
We ask the majority of player volunteers to take on the roles of Grendel orcs as normal. You can help by wearing leather or plate armour you have, as well as any iconic Grendel weaponry, particularly swords, spears, and bows of all types. You can find out more about the iconic Grendel look [[Grendel look and feel|here]], and the key elements for portraying the Grendel are a light coloured base layer, with mantles, shoulder capes, wraps and other purple clothing and other bright colours as their iconic look.

'''IMPORTANT''' - we will '''not''' be reusing any orc masks to players for these battle opportunities. Our orc masks will only be used once this event and then washed ready for the next event. We are continuing the provision of battle opportunities with non-orc enemies until such a time as we have sufficient masks to run two fully orc-masked battles.

==Conjunctions==
The [[Sentinel Gate]] also allows smaller groups of Imperial citizens to reach locations all over the Empire where their intervention might change the course of events. Many of these ''[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]]'' involve combat, but there are also a variety of other opportunities presented by the magic of the Gate.

For most conjunctions, the Civil Service has identified the Imperial titles that are the most appropriate to take overall responsibility for ensuring that a response is organised. Whilst the individual has been named by the Civil Service, there is no legal requirement for them to coordinate a response or travel on the conjunction. They may delegate oversight to another individual of their choosing. As always, Imperial war scouts will be on hand at the Sentinel Gate to provide further information to any citizens wanting to learn more. They can provide updates on the barbarians' goals, guidance on how to engage the enemy troops or advice on how to avoid casualties and return back to Anvil in safety.

Sometimes it is necessary for us to make small adjustments to the timing or size of encounters at the time of this publication and when an encounter runs at an event. Details for the conjunctions on Friday will be finalised on Friday afternoon of the event before time-in (18:00) whilst details for the conjunctions on Saturday will be finalised on Saturday before time-in (10:00). Please check the details of any conjunction you are interested in as soon as possible to ensure that you have the full and up-to-date information; it might also be sensible to check again shortly before the planned time of the encounter. You can check the details of a conjunction by casting [[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Detect Magic (Discover Conjunction)]] on the Sentinel Gate in the presence of a referee.

It's very important to pay attention to the [[accessibility]] note for each conjunction, which covers the likelihood of combat. Further details about the accessibility of a conjunction are [[Accessibility#Who_and_how_to_ask.3F|available both before and during the event]]. You can learn more about this on the [[accessibility]] page.

===Friday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 18:00 on Friday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 18:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Halfweir Grove || [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]] || [[Thorn_and_bone#A_Testing_(Conjunction)|Destroy the heralds of Surut]]
|-
| 18:35 || 5 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[LINK|Find out why the regio keeps shifting back to Spring, and resolve it]]
|-
| 18:45 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Maiden Stone || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#Apples_First_(Mitwold)|Stop Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone]]
|-
| 19:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Dawnguard, Troubadour's Glade || [[Knight of Dawnguard]] || [[#A Vow (The Barrens)|Kill ''Prilak Gutdredger'']]
|-
| 19:15 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Mitwold, Maiden Downs, Golden Fields|| [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] || [[Pride_in_the_Marches#The_Right_Thing_(Mitwold)|Stop Dusty Cobb setting Golden Fields alight]]
|-
| 19:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, The Dredging Flats || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[#A Call to Stand (The Barrens)|Kill the Servants of the Burnt]]
|-
| 20:45 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Ossium, Echofell, Burned Glade || [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Ossium]]
|-
| 21:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Rotwood Croft || '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[#After the Taint (Therunin)|Destroy the miasma pillar]]
|-
| 21:05 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Madruga, Free Landing, Hart's Cove || [[Hand of Guerra]] || [[Keys_of_Enlightenment#Barren_Waters_(Conjunction)|Aid the stranded ship from Sumaah]]
|-
| 21:15 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Kroll, Slow Worm's Hill || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[LINK|Prevent the cursing of Sarangrave]]
|-
| 21:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, The Breakteeth dais || [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] || [[LINK|Recover the treasure]]
|-
|}

===Saturday===
<div class="alert">'''These times and numbers are subject to change until 10:00 on Saturday</div>
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Time !! People !! Duration !! [[Accessibility#Combat|Combat]] !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview/Link
|-
| 14:45 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Bitter Strand, Saltshore || [[Merchant of the Fangs]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Fangs_for_the_Memories_(Conjunction)|Answer General Utmar's call for aid]]
|-
| 15:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Madruga, The Crucible, Talpses Plat || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#A_Terrible_Feeling_(Madruga)|Claim the ''Snapping Face'']]
|-
| 15:15 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Carmine Fields, Trading Way || '''Rhydian de Rondell''' || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#Taste_of_Mettle_(Conjunction)|Remove the failed knights-errant of House Courcillion as a threat]]
|-
| 15:30 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Necropolis, Coursmouth, The Veiled Garden || [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] || [[Phantasms_and_foam#The_Strength_of_This_Place_(Necropolis)|Spill the waters of Siakha]]
|-
| 15:45 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, The Untrod Groves, Glade of the Good Knight || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[A_horn_blast_of_victory#A_Hearty_Meal_(Conjunction)|Thwart the schemes of Ser Gawain Amboise]]
|-
| 15:50 || TBC || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Mareave, Fleisardh, Spring Regio near Golden Wind's Encampment || [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]] || [[LINK|Poison the Grendel]]
|-
| 16:00 || 55 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Tassato, Cascatas, Campo Verdenta || [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]]|| [[Phantasms_and_foam#For_What_Has_Been_Wrought_(Tassato)|Kill the heralds of Siakha]]
|-
| 17:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Spiral, Apstrus, Alba's Lea || [[Legacy|Custodian of the Legacy]]|| [[Mithril_and_rope#A_Backhanded_Request_(Spiral)|Intercept the mercenaries pay]]
|-
| 17:45 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Reikos, Haros Water, Couros Field || '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' || [[LINK|Save Professor Gelberg from Grendel assassins]]
|-
| 18:00 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Redoubt, Naris, Isaac's End|| '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' || [[Seeds_of_discord#An_Empty_Bottle_(Conjunction)|Leave no more than a dozen Grendel alive]]
|-
| 18:15 || 12 || 45 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Kallavesa, West Marsh, The Meeting Place || '''[[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Erlend]]''' || [[Myth_makers#The_Unity_Of_Deed_And_Word|Consecrate the Meeting Place]]
|-
| 18:30 || 60 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Kallavesa, Wittal Grove, Frithstan's Fen || [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] || [[The_keys_of_blood#An_Unexpected_Ally_(Basileia)|Defeat the Grendel (and potentially rescue the Iontach)]]
|-
| 20:15 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Moss End || [[Warmage]] || [[All_I_ask_of_you#Wild_Things_Run_Fast|Take advantage of a recent scouting discovery]]
|-
| 20:30 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Eastern Ward || '''Theodora''' || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 20:45 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || The Barrens, Saltmarsh, Gardenway || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Protect_Lenna_Karass_%28The_Barrens%29|Prevent Druj raiders from kidnapping Lenna Karass]]
|-
| 21:00 || 75 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Western Ward || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[LINK|Cast the permanent ward]]
|-
| 21:15 || TBC || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Forest of Ulnak, Gloomsea, Islet of Calm || [[Archmage of Day]] || [[Who_can_you_trust%3F#Who's_the_Thief?_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Prevent the Eyes of the Dragon from using a boon of Kimus]]
|-
| 21:30 || 70 || 30 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|Highly Likely]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Warmage]] || [[LINK|Drive the vallorn from the regio]]
|-
| 21:40 || 20 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Possible]] || Sarangrave, Bendol, Spring Regio || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[LINK|Cast Dance of Navarr and Thorn]]
|-
| 23:00 || 5 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Sarangrave, the Whisperwood, Depths of the Hungry Earth || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[LINK|Investigate the Hungry Earth]]
|-
| 23:05 || 40 || 20 mins || [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|Unlikely]] || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sumisev Peegel || '''Auntie Armand Mariyavich Remislav''' || [[LINK|Destroy the Sumisev Peegel]]
|}

===A Vow (The Barrens)===
* '''A Druj het is threatening the settlements of Dawnguard'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight of Dawnguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger'''''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The Druj thrive on bringing fear and destruction, especially to those who least expect it. As the days grow longer, a band of Druj burst from Brocéliande. A malicious het ''Prilak Gutdredger'', who led their band into the lush forests, has made a bargain with heralds of the [[Surut|Burning Steward]]. Heralds of Surut will accompany the Druj as they burn Dawnguard, and the heralds will claim the ashes as their prize. The pact is between the heralds and the het; killing the het will end the agreement.

The incumbent [[Knight of Dawnguard]], '''Caladain de Renard''', is responsible for killing ''Prilak Gutdredger''. If the het survives, they will attack Dawnguard and withdraw, reducing the [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle's]] income by 10 crowns a season until it can be repaired. If the het is killed, then a band of knights-errant, the "The Deepest Vintage", who have been training in Dawnguard, will swear their banner to whomever the Knight of Dawnguard nominates, upgrading their starting [[military unit]] to level three.

===A Call to Stand (The Barrens)===
* '''A group of Surut heralds are being accompanied by a band of Druj out of the Barrens'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Knight-protector of Winter'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing the Servants of the Burnt'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Shortly before the summit, a cowled and caped figure visits the Castle of Thorns with a request. The figure introduces itself as the Sublime Enchantrix, a herald of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]], who has a <s>demand</s> request for the Knight-protector of Winter. Not all the Druj in the Barrens are working to kill Imperials; some of them are attempting to escort their allies out of the territory so that they can kill Imperials later. The ''Servants of the Burnt'', soldiers of the [[Surut|Charred Prince]], are being accompanied by a band of Druj in [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]].

The [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]], '''Lady Aletheia of the Twisted Rose''', is charged by the Sublime Enchantrix, with the authority of the Queen of the Wasteland, to kill the Servants of the Burnt before they can escape the Barrens. If they are defeated, then the Dread-Queen will provide a boon to '''Lady Aletheia''' before the Autumn Equinox. If they manage to escape, however, then Skathe will do what she can to see Lady Aletheia cursed.

===After the Taint (Therunin)===
* '''One of the Druj's miasma pillars has been located'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the pillar'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Information gleaned from the seers rescued during the battle at ''Mantifent's Bier'' has revealed the location of a miasma pillar the Druj have recently raised in eastern Therunin. If the pillar remains in place in [[Therunin#Lower Tarn Valley|Lower Tarn Valley]], then the area will come under the pall of the miasma, stymying any advance Imperial forces wish to make in a future liberation of the region. The threat of the pillar can be resolved through several means: the Day ritual [[Chimes of Annulment]] will break its power, the Winter ritual [[Dreadful Ending]] would destroy the physical form that anchors the miasma, whilst a powerful consecration of strength 15 would remove the aura of dread that spreads out across the area.

'''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', as the [[Field Marshal]] at Mantifent's Bier, is tasked with dealing with the miasma pillar and the Druj forces that protect it. Destroying the pillar will prevent its miasma forming in the Lower Tarn Valley.

==Military Considerations==
{{stub}}
Several [[territory]] pages now contain details of strategic obstacles presented or advantages provided by movement through or fighting in those lands. There are also several [[fortification|fortifications]] that follow different rules. Several armies or nations have special rules or opportunities related to the orders they can issue, which should be borne in mind when discussing military strategies during the Winter Solstice.
* '''Billeting:''' Any Imperial army can take the '''''[[Army_orders#Billet|Billet]]''''' order in [[Mitwold]], [[Mournwold]], or [[Upwold]]. [[Army_orders#Billet|Link]]
* '''Dawn:'''
** Dawnish armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]]''''' order or the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[Dawn military concerns#Army Orders|Link]]
** The borders of [[the Barrens]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_23|mandate]] enacted by Ser Tunic. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in the Barrens.
* '''Highguard'''
** Highborn armies can take the '''''Protect the Innocent''''' order. [[Highguard_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** Highborn armies enchanted with rituals or targeted by a boon that calls an eternal to send heralds to fight alongside the army will lose a thousand effective strength until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE as a result of a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|mandate]] enacted by Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
** Any Highborn army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Imperial Orcs'''
** An Imperial Orc army can take the '''''Forge Hammers''''' order whilst in [[Skarsind]]. [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
* '''The Marches:'''
** Marcher armies cannot take the '''''[[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]]''''' order. [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]]
** The [[Strong Reeds]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Bregasland]]. [[New_port,_old_wine#New_Oaths,_Old_Boots|Link]]
** The [[Tusks]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mournwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Drakes]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Mitwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
** The [[Bounders]] receive an additional 1000 strength when fighting in [[Upwold]]. [[I_already_know_you#Reeds,_Drakes,_Tusks,_Bounders|Link]]
* '''Urizen:'''
** The borders of [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_14|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Morrow and Zenith.
** Any Urizen army attacking into Zenith from Morrow gains a 20% bonus to any territory captured and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]
* '''Varushka:'''
** The borders of [[Ossium]] are patrolled by citizens of the territory as a result of the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|mandate]] enacted by Velko Perunovich Razorasza. The Druj require 25 victory points to claim a beachhead in Ossium.
** Varushkan armies can take the '''''Hospitality of the Boyars''''' order whilst in Ossium. [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|Link]].
* '''Wintermark:'''
** Wintermark armies can take the '''''Fight with Honour''''' order. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]].
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun will gain 10% more victory points but inflict 20% less casualties. [[Fight_with_monsters#A_Hero.27s_Tale|Link]]
** Wintermark armies fighting against the Jotun have their casualties taken reduced by 10%. This effect continues as long as the Winterfolk continue to fight honourably. [[A_tale_told#Game_Information|Link]]

Click ''Expand'' to see military considerations that are less relevant at the current time but are still active.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
*'''Morrow:''' Any Highborn or Urizen army that defends in Morrow against an army attacking from Zenith gains a 20% bonus to defend territory and suffers a 10% reduction in casualties inflicted. [[Three_soldiers#The_High_Pass|Link]]</div>

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T04:49:58Z

Kirkbride:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===The Keys of Blood===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove;'''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run-up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T04:45:45Z

Kirkbride: /* To Seek Enlightenment */

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===The Keys of Blood===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove;'''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run-up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T04:43:55Z

Kirkbride: Created page with "Category:Winds of FortuneCategory:388YE SummerCategory:Winds of Magic <div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Marginalia in London, British Library, Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r.png|align=right|width=2000}}</div> ==Overview== __TOC__ Six realms of magic align with the mortal world, whose inhabitants are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet, to a..."

To seek enlightenment

2026-07-22T04:24:22Z

Kirkbride: Created page with "Category:388YE SummerCategory:Winds of FortuneCategory:Highest Calling <ic>"So, what happened to 'this is the last time?'" Lyubov looked up as Mladen studiously chose things and carefully put them in his knapsack. Mladen looked up, as if surprised that she'd come out and said it. "It's just that.. I'm the best one for it. And this is the last time! I told them so..." he refused to admit that he would likely answer the call again if it came. "You might have..."

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Highest Calling]]
<ic>"So, what happened to 'this is the last time?'" Lyubov looked up as Mladen studiously chose things and carefully put them in his knapsack.

Mladen looked up, as if surprised that she'd come out and said it. "It's just that.. I'm the best one for it. And this is the last time! I told them so..." he refused to admit that he would likely answer the call again if it came.

"You might have been the best for it a few years ago, but there's new blood now. Why can't you just relax?" She felt almost cruel for saying it, but the new lot wouldn't get a chance to make a name for themselves if Mlad kept jumping up and down desperate to help.

"Maybe for something else, but this is something I'm good at. I fought those wars and I can dredge up old contacts. Heck, I can talk the talk with the Suranni if need be. I promise you, I'll be home by the next solstice. We can go have honey rum in Delev then." He finished packing and leant down to give Lyubov a kiss on the head, before shouldering his pack.
</ic>
<div style="float: left; width: 300px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Wisdom.png|width=300px}}</div>
==Overview==
The Spring Equinox of 388YE may go down in history as one of the most inspirational in the history of the Synod, as eight Assemblies were each able to divine, debate and determine their [[the highest calling|highest calling]]. For the Wisdom Assembly, it was to support the fine work of the civil service who perform [[historical research]] and produce [[Appraisal|appraisals]].

In a perfect world, the Assembly might have hoped to increase the capacity of one or both departments. It would clearly strengthen the Empire to be in a position to carry out more research or conduct more appraisals. Unfortunately, that isn't possible at this time; the Empire simply does not have that capacity ('''OOC Note:''' Profound Decisions does not have the capacity to support any additional plot of this kind at this time).

That does not mean that there is nothing the Wisdom Assembly can do. If they cannot increase the amount of research work the Empire can carry out, is there some way they could improve the quality of the work done?

<div {{float}}>{{SOPInner|statement=Wisdom teaches us to test and apply what we have learned, for it is always incomplete. Nowhere is this more true than in the actions of our enemies. What is not known cannot be fought without needless loss of Imperial lives. Questions rise anew with each strike against - or from - our wars against barbarian and vallorn alike. The Way cannot spread, cannot be known beyond our current borders, without the wars we fight; we cannot fight these wars, both current and future, without the knowledge to support our forces. The Ministry of Historical Research and the Empire's prognosticators tirelessly collate and unearth knowledge of our enemies, but their work is endlessly unfinished. Supporting the efforts and research of those institutions and the study of these foes embodies the teachings of Wisdom. This is our highest calling.|by=Asthore Autumngale, Wisdom Assembly|vote={{GM}} 296-74|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}</div>

==Finding the Right Question==

Those familiar with the work of the [[Appraisal|Prognosticators Office]] can testify to the importance of asking the right question. The long-suffering civil servants will do their best to provide some kind of answer, no matter what question is asked. But the undeniable truth is that some topics are more fertile than others - and more importantly, asking the right question in the right way can make the time and effort invested in an appraisal much more rewarding. For that reason, the department took the unusual step of issuing [[Appraisal#OOC_Design|new guidance]] to citizens so that they could learn how to get the best from the department.

The Wise have considered this thorny issue, and have fallen back on the oft-used defence of debates on Wisdom - the need to find the right question. What if the Assembly worked with the prognosticators' office to find the right question together? Of course there is always a danger that it raises expectations too high; nothing is ever guaranteed. But surely if the Assembly can help with the formulation of the question, it can only help?

For the following year, the Wisdom Assembly can pass a statement of principle detailing a single issue they would like to find out more about. If the statement passes with a greater majority, then the Wise will come together to suggest one or more well-worded appraisals for the Senate to consider commissioning the following season.

It seems like an eminently sensible suggestion that offers the best chance of success. So good in fact, that a familiar face has already made a head start on it.

===Every Word You Speak===
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Appraise the Armies of X'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Appraisal]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Detail:''' Grendel, Thule, or Jotun</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Prognosticator:''' Mladen Escovich</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Only available at the Summer Solstice 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Uncovers information about the armies of a single local power, either the Grendel, Thule, or the Jotun
* Will ''not'' identify how the nation supplies their armies
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Can instead appraise armies of the Iron Confederacy but will take an extra three months</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Mladen Escovich has been inspired by the words of the Wisdom Assembly'''
* '''The ageing Varushkan offers to take on yet another "one last job" to assess the armies of a nearby nation'''
* '''This opportunity is only available at the Summer Solstice 388YE'''

Mladen Escovitch is officially listed on the official [[Appraisal#"Retired"_Prognosticators|roster of official prognosticators]] as retired - a status he appears to view as some kind of insult or disastrous mistake. His colleagues tend to see it more as something of a joke. The ageing Varushkan appears to be incapable of retiring to earn his well-deserved rest despite the importunities of his long-suffering wife.

This season, he is using the highest calling of the Wisdom Assembly as the excuse for failing to stop turning up for work. As such, he proposes that the Imperial Senate could instruct the prognosticators' office to appraise the armies of a single foreign nation, either the [[Grendel]], [[Thule]], or the [[Jotun]]. Mladen is also willing to assess the armies of the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that will take an extra three months to avoid any "''mishaps''" such as what affected [[Historical_research#Marko_Siwarsbairn|Mark Siwarsbairn]]. The goal would be to find out as much as possible about the armies. Some things would be a matter of fact; the size and quality of each army could be nailed down. But beyond their size and composition, other details could be important: a little information about their history and background, the identity of their general. Who knows when such details might offer some insight into how to defeat the enemy.

If the Senate does want such an appraisal, they could legally choose to name anyone. But Mladen has found a way to suggest an appraisal that only he, with his extensive experience on the front line, could answer. For all practical purposes, the Senate would have to choose to assign Mladen to this appraisal if they decided to go forward with it.

Even with Mladen on the job, it would only be about the armies themselves. Their supply - the full details of how each territory supports them and how to interfere with that would not be included. That is beyond the reach of appraisal at this time. The only reason the Empire was able to get such a [[Make_it_happen|full picture]] of the Druj supply lines was how well mapped and close the remainder of their territories were. Much of the Grendel, Thule, and Jotun lands remain completely shrouded by the fog of war, and thus any appraisal to look into their supply lines would fail to deliver answers to those key questions.

==Question the Right Finding==
<div style="float: right; width: 250px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Roshanwe has sent one of her heralds, Little Lantern, to support the prognosticators' office'''
* '''The Conclave could use a declaration of acceptance to ask the eternal to withdraw the herald'''

The [[eternal]] [[Roshanwe]] has heard the call of "her" assembly, and is keen to offer her support where she can. After careful consideration, she has elected to send one of her disciples to work at the Prognosticator's Office. While this will not increase the number of appraisals that the team can perform, it will allow the Senate to elect to send ''Little Lantern'' in place of one of their normal colleagues.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' '''may''' have knowledge and the means of acquiring it beyond the scope of the others. As a Day herald, they will '''definitely''' have their own eccentricities and perspective on what the important parts of the appraisal are, and an idiosyncratic way of reporting back to the Empire.

In order to gain access to the Empire required to help with such matters, ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' would need to have the [[Alignment#Amity|amity]] of the [[Conclave]]. As long as this was maintained, the extra prognosticator would remain available to the Senate.

The civil service has not required the approval of Conclave or Senate for this assignation. This is because there is no danger posed by the herald making their services available - if the Senate is not happy with the arrangements, they can simply not send the herald. The Conclave could use a declaration of acceptance to ask [[Roshanwe]] to withdraw their herald at any time - but they would need to word the declaration carefully if they wished to avoid distressing ''Elder Pharos''.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T04:24:11Z

Kirkbride: /* Tourney of Two Cities */

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

Tourney of two cities

2026-07-22T02:38:57Z

Kirkbride: Created page with "Category:388YE SummerCategory:Winds of Fortune <ic> The great smith was whistling to himself, a pleasant ditty of some kind, as he worked the hammer over the Anvil. The tune seemed to rise and fall to match the hammer strikes, the notes sinking into the heated metal. "He seems pleased" whispered Revel to the attendant. They nodded, struggling to say more as they frantically worked the bellows. "Any particular reason why?" he asked. "Ugh. Big. Ugh. Tourney. Ugh...."

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]]
<ic>
The great smith was whistling to himself, a pleasant ditty of some kind, as he worked the hammer over the Anvil. The tune seemed to rise and fall to match the hammer strikes, the notes sinking into the heated metal.

"He seems pleased" whispered Revel to the attendant. They nodded, struggling to say more as they frantically worked the bellows. "Any particular reason why?" he asked.

"Ugh. Big. Ugh. Tourney. Ugh. In. Ugh. Anvil." the poor herald did his best to respond but it wasn't easy to do so without losing a beat.

"Yes, I'm helping to organise it. It's going to be great." Revel rubbed his hands together in eager anticipation.

"Ugh. No. Ugh. Academies. Ugh. Doing. Ugh. It. Ugh. Themselves." Sweat was pouring off his brow now, it was hard enough to work the bellows of the Dragon Forge, trying to talk at the same time was not making it easier.

"Ahhh... " said Revel as the ring dropped. "By themselves eh? So ''that's'' why he's so happy..."
</ic>
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Roar of the crowd.jpg|align=left|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
For several months now, the two great military academies of [[the League]] city of [[Tassato]] have been locked in a battle for new recruits to their respective academies. The intense rivalry between the [[Tassato#Barossa_School_of_Imperial_Strategy|Barossa School of Imperial Strategy]] of [[Tassato#Tassato_Regario|Tassato Ragario]] and the [[Tassato#Five_Cities_Military_Academy|Five Cities Military Academy]] of [[Tassato#Tassato_Mestra|Tassato Mestra]] has led to scores of duels between the two. They have remained good-natured for now, at least by local standards.

Seeking to both gather new students and keen to raise up the next generation of soldiers and strategists, the two military academies have approached the [[The_Academy|Anvil Academy]], and asked them to arrange a fighting tournament at the Anvil arena that they can sponsor. The Academy has accepted, and the first Twin Cities Tourney has been announced.

==Eligibility==
* '''The tourney is aimed at young citizens who have recently passed their Test of Arms'''
* '''Anyone may enter provided they are still young enough to be fully part of the Sun Chamber'''
* '''Players who are aged 14 to 18 may take part in the tourney'''

The military academies are looking for young students to join their schools, people they can train from an early age to become officers in Imperial armies. They are not recruiting experienced veterans - there are countless other opportunities for them. As such the tourney is limited to those citizens who have passed their [[Test of Arms]], but who are still young enough to play a full role in the [[Sun Chamber]]. ('''OOC Note:''' the tourney is for participants aged 14-18 only).

==Timing==
* '''Teams must register with the Academy before 16:00 on Saturday'''
* '''Each team must have three people, the first eight teams to present themselves will take part'''
* '''The tourney begins at 18:30 on Saturday at the Anvil arena'''
* '''Teams are encouraged to have magicians and a physick in attendance to tend the wounded between rounds'''
* '''Citizens are welcome to bet on the outcome'''

The tourney begins at 18:30 on Saturday at the Anvil Arena. Teams have until 16:00 on Saturday to register with the Academy staff; they must provide a name for their team and the names of the three citizens who will be fighting under that banner. Teams will be split into brackets, with the winners of each round moving on.

There are a limited number of teams that can be supported in this tourney - eight in total - as such, it is the first eight teams of three who will be able to partake. Teams must register with the Academy before 16:00 on Saturday ''at the latest''. The first teams to present themselves will be accepted; teams that arrive later risk disappointment.

Each team must have three people in it to register. The three members of the team will each need to choose a different role from the five presented for the tourney. They do need to choose their role when they register, but will need to make sure they have agreed what roles to use before the first round of the tourney begins.

The Barossa School and the Five Cities Academy encourage citizens to support their favourite teams with both rousing cheers and words of wisdom. They remind all watchers that this is a contest, and ask them to honour the defeated teams as well as the victorious. Teams should ensure that they have arranged their own magicians and physicks who can tend their wounds between rounds.

==Roles==
* '''A team consists of three contestants taking to the sands together to face off against the other team'''
* '''Each member of a team must pick a different role for the contest'''
* '''The role a contestant embraces determines what weapons they may take onto the sands'''

The contest is intended to be a challenge of strategy as much as it is of fighting skill. For this reason, contestants must form teams of three, with each member of the team picking a different role to take on. The role determines what weapons they may use in the fight. They are styled after popular Imperial fighting archetypes so that they are easy to understand and remember, though there is no need for citizens to actually be of that nation or that archetype.

<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px;">
<box>'''Beater'''<br>
Rugged [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|beaters]] roam the borders of the Marchers hunting for barbarians and poachers alike, with their bows. If a team includes a beater, they may employ a bow in the contest.</box>

<box>'''Bravo'''<br>
The daring [[bravo]] is known for their panache. If a team includes a bravo, they may wield two weapons or use a buckler. There is, of course, no limit on how many participants may wear fine duelling cloaks if they choose.</box>

<box>'''Cataphract'''<br>
The famous [[Highguard_military_concerns#Cataphracts|elite warriors]] of the Highborn army once rode into battle against the enemy on heavy mounts. If a team includes a cataphract, they may wield a greatweapon, pole-arm or pike.</box>

<box>'''Questing-Knight'''<br>
Dawn's [[Questing_knight|glorious knights]] often favour a large shield painted with their heraldry. If a team includes a questing-knight, they may wield a shield and a one-handed weapon or spear.</box>

<box>'''Warcaster'''<br>
Imperial Orc [[Imperial_Orcs_magical_traditions#Warcasters|warcasters]] are feared on any battlefield where they appear. If a team includes a warcaster, that member may cast spells, wear mage armour and use any combination of staff, rod, wand, or weapon.</box>
</div>

==Rules==
* '''The contest takes place under "Iron Duke" rules'''
* '''Challengers may use heroic and magical abilities in the arena'''
* '''Use of consumable items, including potions, herbs, and crystal mana is not permitted in the arena itself'''
* '''Challengers may receive new or mended weapons from outside of the arena if theirs are shattered'''
* '''Challengers may only receive healing from a warcaster on their team while the fight is in progress'''
* '''This is a sporting event; <u>no executions, looting or eating people</u>'''

Participants may not employ potions, herbs or mana crystals during a bout. They can only be healed by a warcaster on their team while a fight is in progress. This is a sporting contest; there must be no executions, looting or similar acts of barbarism.

The Academy ask willing healers and physicks to attend the tournament and heal the competitors during the tourney. Healers willing to help out should wait until a challenger clearly yields and leaves the arena. Downed challengers should be removed from the Arena as soon as possible. Allies should hold a hand on their heart to indicate they should not be struck by the combatants and remove the challenger quickly so that they can be healed and return to the fray.

==Rewards==
* '''The Academy plans to make arrangements with the Artisans Guild to allow the three winners to purchase a magic item from them for up to three thrones in value'''
* '''Every member of the team that comes second will receive a Skops Mead or a Philtre of Heavenly Lore'''

The sponsors have provided the Academy with nine thrones, which they plan to lodge with the [[Guildmaster of the Artisans]] to provide suitable rewards. As a result, every member of the winning team may purchase a single [[magic items|magic item]] from the Artisans Guild up to three thrones in cost.

The intention of the Academy is that the winners will be able to seek out the Guild, discuss with them what magic item they require and then the guild can arrange for those items to be fashioned using [[Timeless Hammer Rhythm]] so that the participants may collect them the next day in time for the battle if needed. The Academy expects that three thrones will cover the cost of the materials and the ritual, and provide a comfortable profit for the artisan. If that is likely to be a problem, Hildebrand Von Holberg, the head of the Academy asks their counterpart in charge of the Guild to let them know so that they can make alternative arrangements.

For the runners-up, there is a choice of a [[Philtres_of_War#Skop's_Mead|Skop's Mead]] or a [[The Philtre of Heavenly Lore|Philtre of Heavenly Lore]] potion.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T02:32:20Z

Kirkbride: /* Survival */

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

</table>

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

File:Roar of the crowd.jpg

2026-07-22T01:13:37Z

Kirkbride: {{Tom}}

== Summary ==
{{Tom}}

File:Marginalia in London, British Library, Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r.png

2026-07-22T01:07:45Z

Kirkbride: {{Wikimedia}} Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Marginalia_in_London,_British_Library,_Harley_MS_2433,_fol._82r.png source]

== Summary ==
{{Wikimedia}}

Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r

[https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Marginalia_in_London,_British_Library,_Harley_MS_2433,_fol._82r.png source]

Summer Solstice 2026

2026-07-21T22:55:14Z

Kirkbride:

{{CaptionedImage|file=Steeplechase1.jpg|title=Steeplechase LRP Centre|align=left|width=350|caption=One of the skirmish fields at the new site}}
==Overview==
This page lists all the details that are specific to this event. There is an additional page with [[event information]] which lists arrival and departure times and similar details that are common for all Empire events.

This page is currently incomplete; we will update it with additional details as soon as they are finalised.

==IC News==
See the [[388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune|winds of fortune]] and the [[388YE Summer Solstice winds of war|winds of war]] for all the latest in-character developments throughout the Empire. An [[Event schedule|event schedule]] that shows the timings of in-character activities common to all Empire events is also available. There is also a [[388YE Summer Solstice Imperial elections|list of upcoming Imperial elections]]

==Battles==
At the event, we will be running two large battles, one Saturday morning and one Sunday morning. The large battles will follow the normal rules for [[battles]]; you may only participate in a single battle as your character and you must monster the other battle if you decide to participate in one. The sides for the battles will be chosen by the generals in the [[Muster]] of the [[Military Council]] on Friday night.

The [[Sentinel Gate]] opens at 11:00 - regardless of whether anyone is ready or not! If you are playing then make sure you arrive in plenty of time before this so your weapons can be checked.

If you are monstering, then you need to make your way to the monster area between 09:30 and 10:00 to give us time to get you into costume, made-up, and briefed. If you turn up after 10:30 you will be turned away.

The winds of war now provide information about the [[388YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Battle_opportunities|battle opportunities]] at the forthcoming event.

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

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

<div {{float}}>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Steeplechase E3.webp|align=right|width=6000}}</div>

==Site Map==
The site map is opposite; the [[camp planner]] for each camp will have their own layout for their camp, showing where all the tents are to be pitched. If you are bringing an IC tent, please make sure you contact your camp planner before the event to let them know what you are bringing. If you do not know where you are supposed to be camping, then please speak to the [[camp planner]] on arrival at your nation's camp.

==Access==
* '''Please update your vehicle registration and contact number on your account and display your PID in your windscreen'''
* '''You must observe the 10mph speed limit at all times once you leave the public road'''
* '''Use indicators as normal to indicate direction of travel, do not use hazard lights'''
* '''No vehicles are permitted on the IC field during the hours of time-in'''
If you are coming by car, please update your vehicle registration and contact number on your PD account and display your PID in your windscreen. The gate team have paper slips available for everyone who needs one to write your PID on.

There is a 10mph speed limit in place all across the site. You must reduce your speed to 10mph or less as soon as you turn off the road. Use indicators as normal to indicate direction of travel on site, do not use hazard lights.

There are roads that go through the out-of-character camp, through Anvil and back. Vehicles are allowed to leave the road provided the conditions are acceptable, please check with a member of crew for further details when you are on site. No vehicles are allowed into the IC area while the game is running. The map shows two sets of roads, the roads marked in brown are only available outside the hours of time-in.


==Drop Off Point==
We have created a vehicle drop-off point near the main entrance to the site. This is purely for vehicles that are not driving onto the site, but wish to park as close to the entrance as possible so that they can unload from here. You must move your vehicle from the drop-off point to the main parking areas once you have finished unloading your vehicle.

There is a separate area where the coach stops, which is also the recommended spot when using a taxi, as they can then leave the site back down the entrance road.

==Pitch and Park==
* '''Form straight rows when pitching and parking in designated camping areas'''
* '''We ask that vehicles be moved to long stay parking if possible'''
There are three blue pitch and park camps spread around the site for players to use. You can pitch your OOC tent and park your car next to it in any of these three camps. You must make sure you do not block other vehicles or tents.

To improve safety and security, please try your best to form straight rows when pitching and parking in designated OC areas. The traffic team will be on hand to assist at the beginning of the event. If you have any questions about where to pitch your tent or park your vehicle, please speak to the traffic team, who can direct you.

==Accessibility==
There are areas set aside for players with additional accessibility needs dotted around the site. These are shown in pink on the map. Anyone who needs to pitch and park in these areas is welcome to do so, but make sure you do not block in other vehicles or tents. There is also space just for parking for those who require it. We will provide additional support where possible - email us at {{Accessibility}} to discuss what arrangements will suit you best.

The toilet facilities that include a disabled toilet unit are marked with a wheelchair symbol. There is a disabled shower unit with the other showers near [[GOD]].

We aim to make our events as accessible as possible. During events, speak to GOD or the Traffic team in high-vis clothing if you have any queries.

==Toilets==
Toilet facilities are marked on the map with a T symbol. There are trailer blocks and free-standing toilet cubicles in the main field and in additional locations around the site. We are limited in where we can put toilets, since we need to service them; we have spread them as evenly as possible across the site.

All the larger blocks of toilet and hygiene facilities that are located around the site are split into male, female, and gender-neutral toilets. All our participants are entitled to use the facilities that they feel most comfortable using. You must not challenge other participants when using the facilities.

==Parking==
* '''No overnight parking in short stay parking'''
* '''No sleeping in long-stay or short-stay parking'''
There are two areas of the site set aside just for parking. If you are not staying on site at night, the best car park to use is the short-stay car park. Please don't leave your car here if you are planning to stay overnight.

There is a long-stay car park for players who won't need their vehicle during the event. Please park your car here if you won't be using it during the event.

Players are welcome to sleep in their cars in pitch and park if they prefer to, but don't sleep in your car in either of the two dedicated car parks as this makes more work for our hard-working security team.

==Standpipes==
There will be standpipes distributed around the site. We’re still waiting on the final location of where they have been installed. If we do manage to get that information to the office before the event, then we’ll update the map accordingly and let people know.

==Traders==
All our traders are now back together in the new trade court on the edge of the IC area, with the caterers next to them and first aid and GOD behind them.

We expect most of our traders from last event to return. You can find those who have already booked to attend below.

* A.J Preece LARP supplies
* [http://www.chowsemporium.co.uk/ Chows Emporium] Costume, leather gloves, products related to drinking, and accessories.
* [http://history-explorer.co.uk/ Coelred Monger] Suppliers of replica costume and artefacts.
* [https://www.facebook.com/Craeftigan1 Craeftigan] Beautiful weapons and costume that are perfect for Empire.
* [http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk Darkblade] Leather Stuff.
* [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057123293760 Das Shoppe] New and second-hand costume, leatherwork, weapons, props and furniture. Trade-ins welcome.
* [https://www.facebook.com/latexweapons Eldritch] Weapons and armour.
* [https://www.facebook.com/Firehoundforge/ Firehound Forge] Traditional blacksmith providing handforged wares, foregework demonstrations, repairs and lessons in blacksmithing.
* [https://www.larpgems.com Gem’s Trading Co] - Costumes and leatherwork. Fine quality tailored garments and LRP props. Also a wide range of hand made leather items and missile weapons supplied by Arrow Kaster available to order.
* [https://gnosisstudios.net/ Gnosis]
* [https://www.larpinn.co.uk/ Having A Larp] Costume, weapons, armour and LARP accessories.
* Honest Jim's Wandering Shop
* In Your Dreams FX - Weapons, armour, masks and arrows
* Irregular Props - Weapons, shields and mage implements designed especially for Empire.
* [https://www.kriosphotography.com/ Krios Photography]
* [http://www.lamialeather.co.uk Lamia Leather] specialise in making leather Armour, jackets, and accessories for LARP.
* [https://www.larpinn.co.uk/ Larp Inn] Heros are made from our wide selection of costume, leather goods, armour, and weapons.
* [http://www.lightarmoury.co.uk/ Light Armouries] Supplier of latex weapons and props.
* [http://www.lyonleathers.co.uk/ Lyon Leathers] sell leather hides, animal furs, buckles and fittings, and also a small selection of belts and other leather goods.
* [https://www.facebook.com/share/6RgY3tsXxZgxfN3y/ McSkelly Leathers] A fine range of high quality custom made leather goods.
* [https://www.facebook.com/stardustlarpcraft Stardust Larpcraft] Fantasy leatherwork, costume, and accessories with a sparkle.
* [https://www.twistedgoblinarmouries.co.uk Twisted Goblin Armouries] Crafty creations, funky finds, innovative LARP props, armour & costume, bespoke Twisted Goblin Kidz range.
* [https://www.facebook.com/UmbraArmoury/ Umbra Armouries] Custom leather goods.
* [http://www.velvet-glove.co.uk/ Velvet Glove Costumes] Costumes, make-up, prosthetics, jewellery with more to come!


===Caterers===
A full list of caterers is available from the [[Event information#Food and Drink|Food and Drink]] section of the [[Event information|General Details]] page.

[[Category:Events]]

File:Steeplechase E3.webp

2026-07-21T22:53:40Z

Kirkbride: Site map created by Em Bairstow

== Summary ==
Site map created by Em Bairstow

388YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements

2026-07-21T22:42:13Z

Kirkbride:

[[Category: Synod]] [[Category:Synod Results]] [[Category: Synod Judgements]][[Category: 388YE Spring]]
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{|
|+ align="top"| <big>'''Judgement Quick Links'''</big>
! Judgement Type
! Amount
|-
|[[#Change of Doctrine|Change of Doctrine]] || 1
|-
|[[#Veto|Veto]] || 1
|-
|[[#Statement of Principle|Statement of Principle]]|| 94
|-
|[[#Mandate|Mandate]] || 12
|-
|[[#Writ of Consecration|Writ of Consecration]] || 4
|-
|[[#Writ of Excommunication|Writ of Excommunication]] || 1
|-
|[[#Proscription|Proscription]] || 10
|-
|[[#Inquisition|Inquisition]] || 8
|-
|[[#Sanction|Sanction]] || 14
|-
|[[#Recognition|Recognition]] || 1
|-
|[[#Exaltation|Exaltation]] || 2
|-
|[[#Appointment|Appointment]] || 21
|-
|[[#Rewarding|Rewarding]] || 10
|-
|}
</div>
During the Spring Equinox 388YE, the Synod raised 179 judgements
==Change of Doctrine==
===Judgement 7===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Erasmo di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' It has been hundreds of years since the Doctrine of Seven was codified. The Virtuous apply what they have learned; Wisdom knows all knowledge is incomplete. The core of our faith, the Seven Virtues, remain strong - we add context to better reflect what we now know. We update the Doctrine of Seven
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (2039-358)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement amends the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Seven|Doctrine of Seven]]. The full implications of this change to [[the Doctrines of the Faith]] will be felt over the coming months.
<big>'''The Doctrine of Seven'''</big>
<div class="ic"><div class="ic-inner" style="display: block;">
<big>''The Seven Virtues - Ambition, Courage, Loyalty, Pride, Prosperity, Vigilance, and Wisdom - offer guidance and spiritual strength to humans and orcs through our lives and deaths. Each inspires us to constructive action, bringing great benefit to those who follow them and enriching the world. False virtues and malign spiritual forces are detrimental: discouraging action, removing individual choice, bringing destruction, harming their followers, or those around them.''</big></div></div>
==Veto==
===Judgement 119===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Catena
* '''Judgement:''' This assembly votes to veto the relinquishment of Thornfen to Axos
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (62-206)
__TOC__
==Statement of Principle==
===Judgement 6===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement:''' The city state of Beoraidh may be small, but it represents a powerful opportunity for the spreading of The One True Way, the likes of which has ne'er before been seen. Our neighbours have marked off their land and opened their arms to a Basilica of the Way in the heart of their grand city. Amidst travellers and traders from all countries and walks of life, a shining beacon to our faith shall stand, built in the style of our Unshackled siblings and their fervent and beautiful expression of belief. We, the General Assembly of the Synod, note the opportunity that the construction of this Basilica offers, and urge the faithful of the Empire to all they can to assist in its completion and future operation
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1635-204)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement was elevated by '''Dagon Barossa''', the [[Cardinal of Loyalty]]

===Judgement 8===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Luke
* '''Judgement:''' The Marcher Assembly extends a hand to our brethren, offering an invitation to Hap the Soft and any Marcher Orcs who wish to attend the Symposium of Proscriptions. They have shown Pride in their beliefs. Their voices firm and loud. Our duty is to further uplift Marcher voices to a cacophony that the Empire cannot ignore. They shall be heard and we shall ensure it.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (192-0)
* '''Notes:''' Hap the Soft is the owner of [[Mournwold_spoils_of_war#The_Golden_Hoof|the Golden Hoof]] and a well-respected voice of the [[Marcher orc|Marcher orcs]]. The [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|symposium of proscriptions]] is due to take place at the Summer Solstice 388YE.

===Judgement 9===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Aldwyn the Glorious
* '''Judgement:''' The battle in which Helgunn Chargebringer fell, Wintermark was left without a leader in a critical moment. Into that breach stepped Eisa Iron Lungs, whose clear voice and command saved many Winterfolk lives and halted a rout. Since then she has continued to lead her nation and Empire in battle with great Courage and Loyalty repeatedly serving as Field Marshal, and vaunted as a true leader by the egregores. As such, it is with great Pride that we enter Eisa Iron Lungs into the Chronicle of Heroes
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (226-0)
* '''Notes:''' Eisa Iron Lungs has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]]

===Judgement 10===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* '''Judgement:''' Agramant has sent his servants to 'aid' Imperial citizens abandoned in Therunin. This must shame us. Highguard cannot tolerate a monster such as the Abominable One being seen as a rescuer while the Empire's own people suffer. Highguard has chapters, military units, congregations, physicks, priests, pilgrims, the Unconquered and more. We can send virtuous aid where aid is desperately needed. So let Highguard act! Let our citizens escort the refugees and support the healers of High Chalcis, while our chapters and military units aid the Navarri in escaping Therunin. The hungry, frightened, and desperate must find Imperial support. We will deny Agramant the worship of desperation. Only actions are virtuous. If we would calls ourselves guardians of the Empire's soul, then we must prove it where that soul is endangered.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (216-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing situation in [[Therunin]], most recently the claim from [[Agramant]] that the eternal considers the territory to be [[The_thing_with_feathers#Heartbreaking_(Agramant)|"fair game"]].

===Judgement 11===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Alys de Renard
* '''Judgement:''' To be glorious is to be Dawnish. It is an inevitability of our personnage, it is a pillar of our nation, yet a darkness gathers at our door. The Whisper Gallery seeks friendship from our nation. We must <u>not</u> work with them. Priests of Dawn, we <u>must</u> take arms against this threat, and encourage others to as well, for what eclipses glory more than what the Whisper Gallery venerates: secrecy.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (372-76)

===Judgement 14===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tabris, Son of Armisael
* '''Judgement:''' When the vallorn of Therunin presented those standing against it with an abomination that carried a Miasma Pillar, 20 Soldiers of the Pilgrim's Defiance volunteered to face it down. All 20 of them returned to the Labyrinth to ensure its threat was ended. Their names should be recorded by the Archivists. Their Courage should be Exalted by the Pilgrims. And when the time is right, and the infestation of East Ashes is cleared, their remains should be recovered for the Stewards of the Dead, so their deeds can never be forgotten.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (530-0)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement makes reference to the abomination that was encountered and defeated by Imperial forces during the [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#The_Siege_of_Mudlark’s_Haven|siege of Mudlark's Haven]].

===Judgement 15===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Eurybia Mecampus
* '''Judgement:''' The Urizen National Assembly approves the awarding of the Golden Cascade to Twyll of the Eternal Family. His boundless prosperity in defiance of the vallorn will be much needed in the future and his generous support in completing the Beneficiary of the Golden Cascade proves himself a virtuous friend and ally of Urizen. Citizens of Zenith - witness your donations in use.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (190-0)

===Judgement 20===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement:''' The Way and the Empire are a not a monolith, but a mosaic construct of profound, and beautiful traditions, human and orc, united nonetheless by faith, Synod and Doctrine. The life and worship of the greatest monument must reflect and and celebrate this diversity in order to truly uplift every soul in the Empire. Therefore, we look to the Senate to ensure that the completed Grand Inspiration is governed by a college of residentiary Canons, one elected by each National Assembly, and led by a Dean chosen by the Assembly of Nine, who will together be charged with this sacred task. Let us show that the past, present, and future of the Way is here in th ten Proud nations of the Empire who stand together in Virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (440-62)

===Judgement 25===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Mael of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' BEHOLD: VIRTUE! As the MARSHAL of the FAITH, I bid ye witness that the following were multiply commended by diverse FIELD MARSHALS and COMMANDERS for their WISDOM and BRAVERY in recent battles: EISA IRONLUNGS, SERAFINA SEMENOV, DAME KATELYN CORDRACO, NEVE AGRA, the runner SASHKO and the SENTINEL'S TOWER. The IMPERIAL AUXILIARIES are commended for tireless running with extremely limited numbers in unfamiliar terrain. The Marshal personally commends WILLIAM GUILDENSTERN for his AMBITION and for holding himself accountable. Virtue is found in what is learned from a defeat as well as what is gained from victory. A fuller list of commendations may be found on the Synod Notices.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (222-0)

===Judgement 27===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' Completing the Grand Inspiration of the Way is a lofty goal, but nothing is beyond the grasp of the Virtuous. The Hallowing of the Patron drives us to silence naysayers, and what better way than to complete this inspiration project within the year? It will draw the eyes of the world to us, establishing Bastion as the heart of the Way. From there, our faith will spread across the globe. <u>This</u> is our highest calling!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (394-82)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[Construct Grand Inspiration of the Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]]. Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 29===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Dagon of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' Loyalty is the link from one heart to another, guiding us on the path of Virtue. Alberto Acciai - Exemplar of Loyalty - followed his heart. Inspired by his cousin, Alberto broke the chains of the downtrodden and struck against the Plenum, freeing slaves from their tyrant masters and breaking two Asavean armies. Through Loyalty, Alberto shared the gift of the Way with the people of Marilen, and inspired others to rise up in Virtue. Two years ago we committed to continuing the work of Alberto and Amika. Asavea will be transformed through Virtue, the truly Virtuous are Loyal even in times of hardship! We must stand by our commitment, and finish the war the Empire started. We will bring Virtue to Asavea, no matter the cost. We devote our hearts to this task. This is our Highest Calling.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (390-26)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to efforts to efforts to [[#Anchor_the_Way_in_Asavea|anchor the Way in Asavea]]. Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 31===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Katya Vasillova Reznikov
* '''Judgement:''' Prosperity is not measured by wealth possessed but by putting it to worthy purpose. Mayra Zoronova Prochnost demonstrated this principle through labour, sacrifice, and stewardship. They gathered funds and resources for the Boyar's Hasta army, supported the preparation of Varushkan military units for the campaign concerning the face-peelers in Ossium and Karsk, before committing personal and donated resources towards the ritual Merciless Wrath of the Reaver. We declare Prosperity is realised when citizens place their wealth, labour and influence in service to others and the Empire. We celebrate and lift up Mayra as an example of a prosperous citizen and encourage others to do the same.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (200-30)

===Judgement 41===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Asthore Autumngale
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom teaches us to test and apply what we have learned, for it is always incomplete. Nowhere is this more true than in the actions of our enemies. What is not known cannot be fought without needless loss of Imperial lives. Questions rise anew with each strike against - or from - our wars against barbarian and vallorn alike. The Way cannot spread, cannot be known beyond our current borders, without the wars we fight; we cannot fight these wars, both current and future, without the knowledge to support our forces. The Ministry of Historical Research and the Empire's prognosticators tirelessly collate and unearth knowledge of our enemies, but their work is endlessly unfinished. Supporting the efforts and research of those institutions and the study of these foes embodies the teachings of Wisdom. This is our highest calling.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (296-74)
* '''Notes:''' Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 44===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Bloodcrow Udoo
* '''Judgement:''' "I am walking towards a bridge of renown across an Abyss that only cares for my legend." Bloodcrow Knott Ancestor of the Sunstorm Sept. Learn and share his tale and name. Know well his soul. Celebrate his life and deeds. For we do hear his voice. Bloodcrow Knott. An ancestor of the Sunstorm
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (44-10)
* '''Notes:''' The words of Bloodcrow Knott have been added to the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#Annals_of_the_Ancestors|Annals of the Ancestors]]

===Judgement 46===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Elagabala
* '''Judgement:''' Chastise the folly of Brannan, in Sarangrave or wherever it raises it's head. We call on priests of the Empire to support Imperial soldiers who have fought in the Sarangrave against subsuming their will and personalities to the intoxication of Summer magic's Knights of Glory, through liao and pastoral support. Virtue demands we ensure that their capacity for rational, virtuous choice and for choosing to accept orders are not impeded. We must ask the right questions: Why the Sarangrave? What would cause this to occur elsewhere? How can we best support the minds and spirits of our warriors, both today and tomorrow?
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1152-140)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement was elevated by '''Silas of the Cenotaph''', the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]]

===Judgement 47===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Doctor Lysimachus
* '''Judgement:''' There at times is a perception amongst t'other nations that us highborn are a bunch of dour humourless types with sticks lodged in places things shouldn't be lodged (outside private consenting activity). The implication that we are such because we are a nation determined to be Virtuous in our actions implies a) a lack of understanding of the Way and b) that most folk who say this haven't actually spoken to most Highborn. Just because one is serious about virtue doesn't mean we lack humour, joy and all t'other stuff that makes a virtuous life enjoyable. So go out there me highborn siblings, let the nations see that while we work hard, we play hard, and that are capable of living, laughing, and loving life as anyone else.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (356-32)

===Judgement 49===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Larkin Otterways
* '''Judgement:''' Marchers! Look to the loyal example of your generals. Look to the virtues in your pursuit of Stephen of Sarcombe. Despise treachery; the strongest may err, but deceivers will lie again.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (172-0)
* '''Notes:''' The location of the yegarra Stephen of Sarcombe is currently unknown; he was last seen during the battle of Two Barrel Field during the Winter Solstice 387YE

===Judgement 50===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Veikko Bondforger
* '''Judgement:''' In my power as Keeper of Oaths, I commit the following Oath from Emperor Vesna to the Forge of Bonds. The Oath of Office of Emperor Vesna: I vow to stand side-by-side with my subjects and uphold what it means to be Imperial. I will recognise the virtue in struggle, service, and in hard choices made for the good of all. I will honour our oaths and treaties, act with virtue to all peoples, and extend the hand of friendship to those who would walk beside us. I will offer the hospitality of the hearth to the vulnerable, the disillusioned, and those who turn from us, and ensure that there is a place for all within the Empire. I vow to stand steadfast in the pursuit of strengthening this Empire, to place the needs of the Empire before my own, and to act with Courage, Wisdom, and Loyalty in all things so long as I am Emperor.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (234-10)
* '''Notes:''' The oath of Emperor Vesna has been added to the [[Keeper_of_Oaths#Forge_of_Bonds|Forge of Bonds]]

===Judgement 52===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ehud
* '''Judgement:''' Our ancestors worked in virtue in order to build the wealth and privilege that we benefit from today, both as a nation and an Empire. We recognise that there are others whose work was exploited, possessed and owned against their will, namely the predecessors of the nation we now call the Imperial Orcs. Without their blood, their sweat, and their tears, Highguard would not have been as affluent as we have been. While we as individuals are not to blame for that enslavement, we still all benefit from everything that was built upon their backs and with their hands. It is time as Highguard to recognise that, to realise what it is we owe these peoples and to work to see that appropriate recognition and reparations are made. There is a debt to be paid and we, the priests of the Highborn, speak out to see that Virtue is done in this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (358-82)

===Judgement 53===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Roland de Lagriffe
* '''Judgement:''' QUEST INTO THE UNTROD GROVES. When the matter of the monarch of Dawn is settled and the Manticore has been destroyed, let the brave knights of Dawn seek glory in the Untrod Groves to destroy what servants and husks of the Manticore remain, to find the regios and places of power within, to unearth the mysteries and secrets of the ancient monster and to bring the light of Dawn to that benighted place. House de Lagriffe offers the hospitality of Heron Hall on the border of the Untrod Groves to all who would undertake such quests
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (410-24)

===Judgement 55===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Ioan Longshadow
* '''Judgement:''' Courage is not only found in the charge. It is found in those who endure - who labour, who heal, who hold the line, and who continue when no song will be sung for them. Their deeds are unseen, but no less vital. No victory is won alone. Every blade raised relies on those who forged it, those who tended the wounded, and those who ensure the Empire endures beyond the moment of battle. To praise only the final blow is to forget the truth. Courage does not seek glory. It does what is right, regardless. Therefore, we recognise and honour the quiet acts of Courage - the unyielding, the unthanked, and the steadfast - for it is these that sustain the Empire when louder deeds fall silent.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (210-12)

===Judgement 57===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Lia Adelaar van Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' The League has successfully attracted other peoples into the Empire - witness Holberg and Apulian! We urge you to use your ingenuity and cleverness to identify who might next join the League and how we might attract them to be a partner in our great game. We seek to bring other sapient beings from all species into our great Empire and to the Way of Virtue, and where better to come then to this League of great cities. This is our highest calling.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (404-0)
* '''Notes:''' Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 59===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Alexei
* '''Judgement:''' The Imperial Orcs are casting a ritual on the Galath Fields to allow people to speak to the dead. We call on storytellers and wise ones to speak to the human ghosts in the field of glory to help them move on, and allow the orcs to tend to the orcs there
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at the request of the raising priest (22-0)

===Judgement 60===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Earl of Fools
* '''Judgement:''' Barrens won, Dawn looks to Horizons new; And in Wisdom learns from Tales of our Past. Dawn must prepare its next Glorious fight; Aid all nations in fight against vallorn. With Love, Glory, Virtue, all that Dawn is. Be the shield wall on which this foe shall break. Be the shining sword which the Empire wields. This is our Highest Calling.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (376-166)
* '''Notes:''' Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 62===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Darian Numbers
* '''Judgement:''' The assembly invites the Raboviches of False Hopes and Arbiter Aphroias of the Hall of the Newborn Sun to represent lucidianism at the upcoming symposium.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (134-0)
* '''Notes:''' The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 135. The [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|symposium of proscriptions]] is due to take place at the Summer Solstice 388YE.

===Judgement 64===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Konstantin Rabovich Bolotnikov
* '''Judgement:''' Spring marks five years since the final region of Ossium was conquered. The Empire came to we Ossians then, and swore it would not demean us as the scorpion had. It taught that Pride showed the worth of all, and Prosperity the importance of work and its rewards. Now Ossium thrives. Warded highways link the new port of Kostyjas Respite to fledgling vales across the territory. Orieb flourishes with trade from the great lumbermill of Kurstrozi, and the permanent magics of the Whistling Strand ensure our safety. This season let each night burn with grand celebration. Reflect on the transformation of the last five year, exalt the success of you and your companions, and pledge to reach even greater heights in the next five.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (224-0)

===Judgement 68===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Eirlys Ashes Blaze
* '''Judgement:''' The Pilgrim's Defiance walked alongside Navarr's captains into Therunin. They did so knowing that three of ten of them would not return. Let the tale of this sacrifice shared in every wayhouse, sung on every road and held dear by every Navarri that looks to the future where Therunin is once again Navarri. May the blood spilled by the pilgrims further nourish the deep bond between Navarr and Highguard.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (288-0)

===Judgement 71===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Kosmas of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' Six years ago the Black Plateau was roused at the Battle of Solen's Doubt. Its oppression thrives by severing us from each other and finally from ourselves. Upon this anniversary the Apstrus Dam and the Dreaming Spire have been raised. These twinned edifices reflect Virtue's power to exalt, transcending the boundaries of soul, spirit, and species. We call for pilgrimage to memorialise the past and form a phalanx of virtue for the future. For this year and years to come, let us make the anniversary the Dam and the Spire symbols to fortify the soul and kindle faith that the downward spiral also turns in the opposite direction. Pilgrims of the Way, our part in the pilgrimage is to show that there are seven virtues that guide the spirit. On this journey no one should walk alone. We can show how the pilgrims of each of the Virtues may strengthen one another and see into the others' blind spots. Hold together the phalanx of virtue against this insidious foe.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (130-30)
* '''Notes:''' The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 135

===Judgement 73===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Illya Nikovitch Volkov
* '''Judgement:''' The Guardian of the Maze of Zoria calls for the aid of the wise ones of the Empire. The Maze of Zoria has proven in the past to be a conduit of knowledge regarding magical beings such as the sovereigns of Varushka. Come to the Maze of Zoria, together we shall discern the nature of the creature behind the face-peelers. This creature is known as "The Stranger", "The First One", or less commonly "The Smiling One". Let us learn of this threat to our Empire together.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (328-0)
* '''Notes:'''

===Judgement 75===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Jesper Luukasson
* '''Judgement:''' For years, the Marches, the Freeborn, and the Winterfolk, have been engaged on the western front against the Jotun, Lasambrians and the Grendel. This war is ever-churning, the deaths are many, and they are out-numbered. The Loyalty Assembly seeks to <u>strengthen the faithful</u> and encourage all who are loyal to build our fellows on the western front up. This is our Highest Calling.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at the request of the raising priest (34-10)

===Judgement 77===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Francesca di Spiral
* '''Judgement:''' We welcome and recognise the judgement by Navarr (54). We recognise their highest calling and we welcome their aid.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (328-10)
* '''Notes:''' The judgement references [[#Judgement 54|Judgement 54]]

===Judgement 81===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Jedediah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' William Guildenstern was recognised as a Marcher Folk Hero in 384YE. As my cousin Pipit Boon called out to our people in 385YE; "Let us sing his story for generations to come, across our territories." There is no better time than these - our homes under siege and our territories dividing - to draw Marchers to great Marcher deeds. As a Folk Hero walks among us as General of the Drakes, remember: Jonah Gold made weapons so fierce it turned a war's tide. Odd of Odd's End drained the Oddmire against the Marshwalker threat. Tom Drake struck down Alderei the Fair. William Guildenstern caught a falling star in his chest. All are Marchers, all fought our battles, all did deeds of great renown, all had rivals who would see them fail, and all are remembered in song.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (152-20)

===Judgement 82===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Friar John of the Mourn
* '''Judgement:''' I, Friar John of the Mourn, am retiring from my role as Friar of Honour's Rest. I was granted what was to be the long task of tending the ailing spirits and restless ghosts of war-scarred Mournwold. With the repelling of the Jotun, the pilgrims visiting the newly constructed Orchard of the Watch, and the lingering dead now finding rest beneath Marcher earth, I believe my task is complete. I wish to acknowledge the Virtue of the faithful of the Greensward, who attended sermons and helped in the monastery's upkeep, particularly the friars of the Last of Overton. I wish to recognise the Courage, Loyalty, and Pride of those who stood with the monastery when the Jotun took the Greensward. I wish to thank the artists, labourers, and artisans who helped me build the Orchard of the Watch, even with the threat of the Jotun hanging over them. I wish quiet times and good fortunes for the next Friar of Honour's Rest. May they serve the good people of the Mourn well. May they show my greatest Pride, the Orchard of the Watch, the love and care such things require. May they hold themselves to a standard befitting this esteemed title. Go with Virtue, and thank you all.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (150-10)

===Judgement 83===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Brynn Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' The Imperial Way is a beacon to the entire world, showing the path to Enlightenment. The light of that beacon must be tended and renewed to keep it burning bright. Virtue calls us to test what we know. Building a Way that is strengthened by questions, challenges, and revelations rather than being threatened by them is the Highest Calling of this Assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (268-30)
* '''Notes:''' Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 84===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Isaia Pavone di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' Desilav Sergeyvich Jesen has commissioned a number of works to enhance Varushkan mining interests and obtain funding for them from private citizens. They also built stronger trade links with the Thule by reducing taxes, creating routes for food convoys and generally enhancing the Northern Trade Network. His work in supporting the creation of a new Varushkan army was also noted by the Emperor in her recent address. For thus dutiful work to enhance Varushkan prosperity we appoint Desilav to the Roll of Benefactors
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (162-0)
* '''Notes:''' A greater majority is required to add a name to the [[Roll of Benefactors]]. The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 178

===Judgement 85===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Rosanna Vtrachenich
* '''Judgement:''' We in Varushka understand the importance of building roads into the unknown. In this regard we in the Varushkan National Assembly support our little siblings in Wintermark and their exploration of the unknown wastes of Tsirku.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (208-30)

===Judgement 87===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tongs
* '''Judgement:''' All League citizens should welcome the seven bells of virtue and their bearers as they process through Temeschwar. Show them our recognition of how inspiring these bells are and hearing their stories and turning this with ours told through dramaturgy, dance and vibrant bridge duels aplenty.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (326-0)

===Judgement 88===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Neri of Ebon's Hall
* '''Judgement:''' The eternal Agramant is preying on those fleeing Therunin - offering them aid, and interdicted means for any to contact him for thanks or further 'help'. Those he preys on feel they are alone. That he is the only place they can turn. Along with Navarri guides, we call on Loyalty dedicants to travel to the places these Navarri refugees gather. We must prove to them they are not alone, and show them what loyalty is, and what it is not.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (306-0)

===Judgement 89===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Lochias
* '''Judgement:''' Six years ago the Black Plateau was roused at the Battle of Solen's Doubt. Its insidious influence thrives by turning half-truth into lies that consume our soul from within. Upon this anniversary the Apstrus Dam and the Dreaming Spire have been raised. These twinned edifices reflect how the virtuous have banished falsehood with truth. We call for pilgrims capable of protecting themselves against the Black Plateau to memorialise the past and form a phalanx for virtue for the future. For this year and years to come, let us make the anniversary the Dam and the Spire symbols to fortify the soul and kindle faith that the downward spiral also turns in the opposite direction. Pilgrims of Vigilance, our part in the pilgrimage is to be alert for the lies of the Accuser of Screed that would twist our thoughts and those of our fellows and thereby scatter our phalanx of virtue. We can cast out falsehoods and bring the light of Truth.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (242-0)

===Judgement 90===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Maja Świętosława Przewałski
* '''Judgement:''' We once said that we would build a new sinecure for the Preceptor of the Varushkan National Assembly rather than take from our own (J75, 383YE). Varushka will not convert another title for this. As current Preceptor I, with the aid of my cousins, will complete Yevanshka's Ambition and build the "Seat of the Preceptor" to act as the new Seat of Virtue in Varushka. The forest is nigh felled; the path is clear. Now walk this road with me cousins.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (234-20)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement references [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement 75|Judgement 75]] from the Autumn Equinox 383YE

===Judgement 91===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Luca i Taziel i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' We call upon the people of the Brass Coast to welcome the pilgrimage of the hallowed bells of virtue. The bell bearers come not to preach but to listen. Join your voice with the ringing of the bells and heed the tales of inspiration they bring from across the Empire. Embrace your virtue and that of your neighbours. Pass on your stories to the bell bearers and let the inspiration of your nation be carried forth, all the way to Bastion and the grand inspiration. We are dust, we are flame, we are glass. Let no virtue be forgotten.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (150-18)

===Judgement 94===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Halkyon of the Myriad Stream
* '''Judgement:''' Six years ago the Black Plateau was roused at the Battle of Solen's Doubt. Its shadow of horror thrives by blinding us to bonds; by imprisoning us with hatred and paranoia that severs us from each other and finally from ourselves. This anniversary the Apstrus Dam and the Dreaming Spire have been raised. These twinned edifices reflect how the virtuous build up their fellows. We call for pilgrims capable of protecting themselves against the Plateau to memorialise the past and form a phalanx for virtue for the future. For this year and years to come, let us make the anniversary the Dam and the Spire symbols to fortify the soul and kindle faith that the downward spiral also turns in the opposite direction. Pilgrims of Loyalty, our part in the pilgrimage is to show our fellows how our bonds make us who we are, and to call forth words and deeds that banish hate, dispel doubt and paranoia and renew our faith in one another.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (204-0)

===Judgement 96===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Callista of the Dark Shard
* '''Judgement:''' Six years ago the Black Plateau was roused at the Battle of Solen's Doubt. Vile malignancy cast its shadow over Spiral. Upon this anniversary, the twinned edifices Apstrus Dam and the Dreaming Spire have been raised, reflecting how the virtuous have aspired to rebuild and create anew in the face of desolation and despair. We call for <u>pilgrims of ambition</u>, prepared against the Black Plateau's insidious influence, to come and memorialise the past and form a phalanx of virtue for the future. Demonstrate how <u>the Ambitious turn fault and failure into growth and greatness!</u> We can show that all pettiness and despair are merely shadows and turn eyes towards the light of our Ambition. Let us celebrate this anniversary with the remembrance: <u>the downward spiral also turns in the opposite direction</u>.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (362-74)

===Judgement 97===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Azir i Shartha
* '''Judgement:''' In order to look to the prosperity of the Brass Coast, there must <u>be</u> a Brass Coast to look to. Beset on all sides by enemies, the Freeborn must defend our borders against those who would invade them. This is our <u>highest calling</u>
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (96-72)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 98===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Bryce the Hare
* '''Judgement:''' In recognition of their virtuous work of commissioning Moor's Mill Publishing House, and the use of the Chair of the Wolf announcement, the Vigilance Assembly recognises the Printers' Guild as rightful custodians of the relic of Berechiah that will be donated by Esmerelda di Rodez to Berechiah's Basilica in Bastion, to be displayed in the Printers' Guild Museum of Wonder.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (216-10)
* '''Notes:''' Investment in [[The_truth_but_tell_it_slant#A_Printer's_Shrine|Moor's Mill Publishing House]] has not yet been commissioned. If the [[Chair of the Wolf]] does announce the investment, then ''Esmeralda di Rodez'' will need to be contacted using [[Call Winged Messenger]] once both the investment and the [[Repair Berechiah's Basilica|work]] to repair Berechiah's Basilica are complete. The relic will be delivered to whichever title is appointed to oversee the basilica of [[Berechiah]].

===Judgement 100===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Felix Saltspire
* '''Judgement:''' It is six years since the Black Plateau was roused. Upon this anniversary the Apstrus Dam and Dreaming Spire have been raised: twinned edifices that show how the virtuous build up their fellows. We call on pilgrims to bear witness to the Empire's success in turning the downward spiral upwards and celebrate what can be achieved when nations work together. Let us build a phalanx of virtue where all citizens build up one another through their many paths and nations.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1428-182)

===Judgement 101===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Gwen Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom guides us in discerning truth from folly. We cannot allow our destiny to rest upon hearsay. Discerning the nature of virtue's role in our path to Enlightenment is the Highest calling of our Assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (152-130)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 103===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Spurius Southshore
* '''Judgement:''' It is six years since the battle of Solen's Doubt roused the Black Plateau. The leeching terror of this horror saps away the spirit and prosperity of the people of Spiral. Virtuous toil goes without its full and proper reward. The grasping hand of dread takes and gives nothing in return. This year the Dreaming Spire and Apstrus Dam have been completed. These works are the fruit of years of toil. Just as the dam guides the waters that bring Prosperity, we call the prosperous, those with the weapons to guard their spirits against the Plateau, to pilgrimage. Let those who can, journey to witness these works and turn the downward spiral upwards. Let those who cannot offer what they can to guard the spirits of those who shall travel. Let prosperity flow again in Spiral and the peoples toil be rewarded.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (140-66)

===Judgement 105===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Nekoda of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' In the inspiration of the Hallowing of the Bard, it falls to the Courageous not only to show Courage but to uplift Courage in others. This falls doubly on us as priests of the Assembly of Courage. To ensure that those who do not fear to act are empowered to do so. But we cannot empower others without the tools to do so. As such, The Assembly of Courage looks to strength its members, title holders, and the abilities of the Assembly itself, such that we can empower all Pilgrims of Courage to face their Virtue, adapt their strategy, and never to trapped in inaction. This is the Highest Calling of our Assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (168-62)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 106===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Echo of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' We the people of Urizen, welcome the pilgrimage of the Hallowed Bells of Virtue. The Bell Bearers come to listen not just to preach. Attend as the bells ring out and heed the tales of inspiration they bring from all across the Empire. Think upon the virtue of others as well as your own. Pass on your own stories to the Bell Bearers and let your arete be carried forth, all the way to Bastion and its Grand Inspiration of the Way to await all pilgrims! Let no virtuous soul be forgotten! Let no virtuous deed be overlooked! Let virtue inspire!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (238-0)

===Judgement 107===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Daniel "The Tree" Winesson
* '''Judgement:''' Trencher "Smoulder in the Cold" has shown great prosperity to the Mark by completely self-funding the lighthouse Trencher's Shining Ambition. A lighthouse that will aid our fleets and bring great prosperity. The priests of the Wintermark Assembly would like to express the gratitude of all of Wintermark for this prosperous act.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (226-0)

===Judgement 109===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Harwyn Eternal
* '''Judgement:''' Six years ago the Black Plateau was roused at the Battle of Solen's Doubt. Its self-enclosed spirit demeans the soul. Upon this anniversary the Apstrus Dam and Dreaming Spire have been raised: twinned edifices that show how the virtuous have embraced the past and inspired one another to greatness. We call upon pilgrims who can defend themselves against the Plateau to bear witness to the Empire's success to memorialise the anniversary and build a phalanx of virtue. Pilgrims of Pride: our path in the pilgrimage is to inspire the excellence that dwells within our fellows and foster respect between people and nations, crack open the self-enclosed spirit and dispel hatred and rage.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (152-32)
* '''Notes:''' The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 163

===Judgement 110===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Jules von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' The League National Assembly applauds the ambition and loyalty of Dr Edwig von Holberg to create a Bill of Mortality, honouring all citizens of the League at Anvil who pass through the Labyrinth, not only those who fall beyond the Gate. We call upon the League to support this endeavour.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (288-0)

===Judgement 112===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Martin Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' This assembly believes the tomb of Ravadi Founders' Dance should be built in Madruga, site of their last sacrifice, site of their eventual victory. Where they fought against the poison in their neighbour's parched fields.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (240-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the writ of consecration [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Where_is_Ravadi's_Tomb?|raised]] last season

===Judgement 117===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Exarch Micah of the Navigators of Virtue
* '''Judgement:''' The Grand Inspiration of the Way will stand for many generations to come. Let us start to engage the children of Highguard now, so that other nations will follow. Let us invite them to prepare art of all kinds; songs, paintings, sculptures etc. in collaboration with priests of their chapters so that they may be featured in the Grand Opening of the Grand Inspiration in a celebration of Imperial Paragons and Exemplars, new and old. For the Empire that could be!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (370-0)

===Judgement 118===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Theodora
* '''Judgement:''' Stargazers, we call for your expertise in the Sarangrave. The vallorn there is unique because of the warding and containment. It is possible it may be susceptible to unique methods and have unique weaknesses. We have learnt all we can through the existing knowledge from the library of Hacynian so we look to you for new paths. A commitment has been made to end the vallorn in our lifetime. Go forth, but take caution in Nesustak and Bloodwater Marsh
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (240-14)

===Judgement 121===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Ada of House Meliora
* '''Judgement:''' The Druj threat is not ended until every soul affected is freed of the fear they have wielded. It is our duty as priests of Courage to not only shed light upon the courageous but to also walk the fearful out of darkness. Let us learn everything we can about the auras of fear, how they have been created and how we can best combat them, that we may work spiritually to liberate the sept of the Sarangrave from their cruel captors once and for all. This is our highest calling.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (202-10)
* '''Notes:''' Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 122===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Brynmor Rootround
* '''Judgement:''' The Manticore marches to wear the Dawnish crown, and amongst the followers are those of the brutal. It has come to the attention of the assembly that their eyes turn to the great forest orcs, to seeing them removed in the way Archavion would have seen for the Rahvin. The assembly and all Navarr that bear the oath of "Protecting the Great Forest Orcs as though they were our family" seek to remind the brutal that regardless of the result of this tourney, that Navarr looks after our own - and that a knife in the back is just as effective as a sword in the front.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (198-40)

===Judgement 123===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Solas of the Spire of the First Light
* '''Judgement:''' The vallorn comes for Nesustak, home of the Bloodwater Spears and the Waterwalkers. The Military Council is charged with defending the Empire; these septs are not Imperial. We cannot guarantee their safety in Nesustak, but can offer them succour elsewhere if they wish to take it. Nesustak may fall, but the children of the spires can take in its people - offer them food and shelter; show them the lies of the buruk tepel, our new homes in the Sarangrave may be sparse and tenuous, but actions such as these reinforce more than they risk. Offer an open hand, but offer no mercy to those who show treachery.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (234-0)

===Judgement 130===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Xandor Trodbroker
* '''Judgement:''' The refugees of Therunin are being manipulated by Agramant into believing he is their only option for help. He targets those who are weak and alone, and seeks to gain access to their spirits and our nation. We call upon Navarr to remind these refugees we are here and we support them. Open your doors if you can and stop Agramant from targeting those in need.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (256-0)

===Judgement 131===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Leonora Albertina van Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Six years ago, the Black Plateau was roused at the battle of Solen's Doubt. Its craven spirit thrives by playing on our fears; using them as secret gates to dominate our thoughts. Upon this anniversary the Apstrus Dam and the Dreaming Spire have been raised: twinned edifices that reflect how the virtuous have refused to accept desolation and ruin as final defeat. We call upon pilgrims to bear witness to the Empire's success in turning the downward spiral upwards. Let us build a phalanx of virtue where all citizens build up one another. Pilgrims of Courage, our part is to show our fellows how to turn to face our shadows, how to face unwelcome truths without succumbing to bitterness or despair - fear is an opportunity to show courage.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (184-0)
* '''Notes:''' The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 187

===Judgement 132===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Dayanara i Cabeza i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' Freeborn should heed the wisdom of the Hakima. It is virtuous, with guidance of our nations priests, Conclave, and in accordance with Imperial law, to hold conversations with Heralds, to ensure no potential opportunity to benefit the Empire is missed. Act with Wisdom. Act with Vigilance. Act with Prosperity. Seek counsel, garner information, benefit the Empire
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (132-0)

===Judgement 133===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Malaki
* '''Judgement:''' To promote the prosperity of Feroz, we encourage the Freeborn to trade with their neighbours in the Protectorate of Morajasse
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (102-10)
* '''Notes:''' The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 105

===Judgement 134===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Lita i Nadir i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' As we look to the foundation of the Burning Agora, and the rekindling of the Firebrands of our nation. Look to Guerra as your example. We urge our Firebrands to use their forum to push for social change, build bridges, and speak on how to drive the Coast and the Empire forward together in virtue, morality, and the ever-changing Way. We welcome our Highborn siblings to join our debate in Peerless Kinship
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (158-0)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement is paired with [[#Judgement 144|Judgement 144]]

===Judgement 135===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Nikolai "The Butcher"
* '''Judgement:''' The people of Varushka do hereby offer thanks and great gratitude to the ancient and venerable Charnel Lord. Their continued interest and assistance with the conflicts on the Eastern Front has strengthened our cause against the Vile Barbarians. In the name of the National Assembly of Varushka, Alderai the Fair - Last General of the IRON HELMS and the citizens of the Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (196-0)

===Judgement 136===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Fabio Costas d'Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' The Sand Fishers seek reassurance that their liberty will not be compromised through closer ties with the Empire. We encourage the citizens of Holberg to reach out in friendship, and share their experiences of the many opportunities our citizens enjoy within the law and virtue of the Empire
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (302-0)

===Judgement 137===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Sagremar i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' The contract is the heart of our nation, the written word is our bond, tying us together and unifying us despite our diversity. We call upon the Coast to enshrine their contracts and the traditions of scrivening, to consider their ties, loyalties and obligations to each other, and uplift the scriveners who formalise the ties we freely choose. This is our highest calling.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (86-72)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 138===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Heilyn Bronwen's Rest
* '''Judgement:''' The Empire has grown, but not without great costs. Many of the lands and people within it bear scars from the conflicts which have been brought to them, or from the actions of those who held power before. We call upon the Prosperous to look for opportunities that will help to bring Prosperity to the damaged territories of the Empire and the people within them. Strive, toil and claim your just rewards - and give those who deserve it the chance to strive, toil and claim in their own turn. This is the Highest Calling of the Prosperity Assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (241-0)
* '''Notes:''' Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 139===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' T’ i Dahr i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' Priests, go forth and preach to your congregations that it is virtuous to be courageous, so you should display your courage and bolster our national unity with the creation of a SAIL BELL on every clifftop as a new piece of our national character. Like a lighthouse it shines on the heart, but rings into the night just as our anklets when we dance, and serving as a memorial of all those lost at sea, and all those sailing as we stand on the shore.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (52-72)

===Judgement 140===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Vidarr Rune-Bound
* '''Judgement:''' These are the words of Kali Keen-Eye, Winter's Whisper and Vidarr Rune-Bound. Kaarina White-Eye, I would have words. Are you a cautionary tale or a Hero of Wintermark? I see the actions that led you to the Howler. I see Loyalty and the terrible choice in grief. True Loyalty to your Children and Sermersuaq, both taken from you by the Jotun. But Wintermark got both back! We weren't there to aid you so you made the hardest choice. I understand, but it was the wrong choice. Has the Hunter in the Wastes proven its strength by retrieving your children? No, it was Wintermark and Dawnish blood that regained every slave taken by the Jotun in Sermersuaq. Ville, Ymma, and Eadric are safe and warm in Wintermark bed. Your Oath to not rest until we gain everything back the Jotun took from us. We raided deep into Skallahn and have a thrones ransom in Jotun Fortifications. We even shattered the very Gates of Kierheim! I say we have taken our share back and then some. We are both Suaq, let us talk and see if your Skein will be truly obliterated or does the Heroes blood still lie within you.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (98-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Anyone_but_you#Kaarina_White-Eye|Kaarina White-Eye]] is one of the two remaining ringleaders of Agramant cults most active in [[Sermersuaq]]

===Judgement 141===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' To lift up those who others would tear down, to raise to greatness those who we see the greatness in, even in their most dire circumstance. As the Empire ends for good the tyranny of the Buruk Tepel, liberating their beleaguered, long-terrified septs, we hold that liberating and uplifting them and others like them is our highest calling. Through the Proffered Hand Network of sanctuaries across the Empire, we will grow these seed of potential to brilliant flowers. These centres of healing, education, and rehabilitation will help them find their place in the Empire. To uplift the enslaved, the oppressed, the overlooked. This is the Highest Calling of our Assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (140-10)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 142===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Diemos
* '''Judgement:''' Although Ahraz was Freeborn, he was an inspiration to us all. In conjunction with the writ of consecration and judgement raised by Ehud, we call for the unsealing of his tomb and invite the Imperial Orcs to add items of worth to his tomb, alongside the Honour Guard.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (258-0)

===Judgement 143===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' The Boyarina Nisha Strazcovich
* '''Judgement:''' The summer summit is the Boyarina's Festival of Pride, celebrating the skills of the Empire's craftspeople. The Pride Assembly encourage the citizens of the Empire to celebrate this in their local community. Recognise the talents of those who create, who build, and make our everyday items. Weavers, stonemasons, textiles and art all demonstrate the wealth of the Casinea Empire. Take Pride in what you make and show pride in the skills of others and let them know.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (164-0)
* '''Notes:''' The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 163

===Judgement 144===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Nim, of Ebon's Hall
* '''Judgement:''' The Freeborn have a great opportunity ahead of them. By building the burning agora, the Firebrands will be revived and vigorous debate will begin in Anduz. This will spell a great era of discovery among the Freeborn, but they must remain Vigilant. The Highborn Assembly are well-posed to support the Firebrands in pushing the Way to excellence. There are no better partners in debate. In this, we provide our Peerless Kinship
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (250-12)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement is paired with [[#Judgement 134|Judgement 134]]

===Judgement 145===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Rinnah
* '''Judgement:''' The Highborn Assembly invite the <u>Voices</u> of Virtue assemblies to be the first to take up offices in the Grand Inspiration of the Way because they and the edifice are united in our will: to spread the Way to all sapient people
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (300-10)
* '''Notes:''' The Highborn looked for [[Lay_the_foundations#Choices|guidance]] on which titles should be given offices in the Grand Inspiration of the Way

===Judgement 146===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Nathair Autumngale
* '''Judgement:''' Navarr, our songs carry along the trods still further. We do not know how long this music will last, but we should take it and share it along the trods all we can. In Brocéliande we first started the steps for this song. Now in Bregasland, the land where the Dance of Blood fell, the site of Graven Rock too resonates with song. The song "Story of Dance" written by Blair Swifthart too was performed for our founders. While music follows in our wake, so too should we try to encourage the spread of our song. This season, as we learn more of the history of the Dance of Blood, let us bring this song to the lands of the nation where they fell.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (232-0)

===Judgement 147===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Locke Nightgrove
* '''Judgement:''' Bees are a vital part of our ecosystems. Farms, gardens, forests, we rely on them for food. Varushka have noted a loss of their bees from the destruction of the Cold Sun. Miaren experienced damage from the invasion too and we call on the vigilant citizens of the territory to check and care for our bees.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (254-0)

===Judgement 148===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Neala Blackhawk
* '''Judgement:''' NAVARR WELCOME AND WITNESS. The pilgrimage of the HALLOWED BELLS of VIRTUE. The Bell Bearers come to tell tales of inspiration and virtue from all across the Empire. Let our songs and stories fill the bells so the bearers can carry our tales far and wide. To Bastion and the Grand Inspiration of the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (192-24)

===Judgement 152===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement:''' Our scars show our battles fought and not all scars can be seen. To all those in the Mark who are lost, who have strayed from the path, your crows can guide you back to the Way and help mend your skein. Just as we guided Valdr Grieversson, dedicating him to Loyalty so he can start mending his skein but the work is not done. Let us build a wayhouse for the lost on the Gireversson farmstead. Let us bring them in from the cold.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (232-0)

===Judgement 154===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Theodoretos of the Wise Citadel
* '''Judgement:''' Rejoice lightstone sellers of Urizen! Our stock has greatly helped miners of Varushka ward off the darkness. I now encourage us to look further and seek out trade opportunities for our lightstones and illumination skills for other nations. Ambition and Prosperity demands it. c/o Felix of the Wise Citadel Architect of Illumination
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (186-0)

===Judgement 155===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Leyna Sunshaper
* '''Judgement:''' Six years ago the Black Plateau was roused at the Battle of Solen's Doubt. Its self-contemplating shadow festers in folly: "that is sufficient" it pronounces and fixes minds in ignorance. Upon this anniversary the Apstrus Dam and the Dreaming Spire have been raised: twinned edifices that reflect how the virtuous have applied the lessons of the past. We call upon pilgrims to bear witness to the Empire's success in turning the downward spiral upwards. Let us build a phalanx of virtue where all citizens build up one another. Pilgrims of wisdom, our part is to encourage our fellow to ask the right questions. Curiosity shall test and shatter the assumptions that rage and despair grow within.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (132-60)

===Judgement 156===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Otso Usvaling
* '''Judgement:''' In the spirit of forging a greater bond between our nations, and in honour of the Fist of the Mountains, we invite the stargazers of Urizen to meet with the mystics of Kallavesa within our swamps. We would share wisdom over the way we build, live and thrive within the swamp with the ambition to help further your aims in the Sarangrave.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (188-0)

===Judgement 161===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Lorenzo von Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' The League National Assembly calls the orcs of the League to experiment and investigate new potential way to interact and learn from the ancestors using Leaguish hearth magic.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (274-0)

===Judgement 163===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Fredegar Bloodmouth
* '''Judgement:''' We applaud the Prosperous actions of the Sarcophan Delves in creating the Pax Sarcophan - a public commitment from the Delves that they will not tolerate piracy of merchant vessels of other nations, they will not permit any nation to threaten international trade. Despise the thieving bandit, the lazy wastrel, the grasping miser, and those who take without giving.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (134-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Pax Sarcophan was [[Can%27t_give_everything_away|established]] shortly after the Spring Equinox 387YE

===Judgement 164===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Caduceus of Aureate Peak
* '''Judgement:''' We accept the offer of the representatives of the Tribunal of the Silver Flame to send their sentinels to aid the efforts of the Military Units of the League, Dawn, and Urizen in mapping the City Below. We bear witness to their Loyalty to Spiral in taking this action.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (174-0)

===Judgement 165===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Taddea Ginori
* '''Judgement:''' The League National Assembly would be honoured to welcome the Tribunal of the Silver Flame's assistance in mapping the City Below in Apulian and thanks for them for reaching out.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (284-0)

===Judgement 167===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' Cousins! We have an opportunity to destroy the Sumisev Peegel regio in Livardz. We the Varushkan National Assembly name Armand Remislav to organise and lead the effort. There is no welcome for Cold Sun - no door we will not bar
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (148-0)

===Judgement 170===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Ralph Godwin
* '''Judgement:''' Marchers, our wise smiths are currently collating a map of active and resting regio across the Marches. This assembly calls upon the courageous folk of the Marches to send information on regio, be it specific locations, realms of magic or relevant legends to their local smith, especially Gemma Brightsmith, so they may continue their important work in our nation.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (182-0)

===Judgement 174===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Exarch Zerithel Of Adoniram's Testament
* '''Judgement:''' We note with caution the actions of Dawn in Highguard. And we fear that some in Dawn are being consumed by the false virtue of Vengeance. We urge the Dawnish to forsake Vengeance and return the 7 true virtues. We ask the troubadours of Dawn to rectify this international schism
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (26-72)

===Judgement 175===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Volya Nebov
* '''Judgement:''' The assembly calls for interested citizens to apply during the summer summit, at a time and place to be announced in public advertisements around Anvil, for future involvement in the doctrinal review council.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (6-0)

===Judgement 176===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' The Assembly of Nine appoints Wulfric of the Marches to lead the Proscription Symposium. We are satisfied with the oath sworn in our presence and the intent of this symposium. We will continue to observe this with keen interest.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (6-0)

===Judgement 177===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' We have long considered that actions which can damage a soul should bear the full weight of Imperial law. However at this this time there is no legal framework that allows us to directly proscribe this. We call upon Senate to create a new religious crime of harming the soul.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (6-0)
* '''Notes:''' Any member of Senate intending to create such a law would be well advised to [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk consult] the Constitutional Court before bringing it to the Senate.

===Judgement 178===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Adelorna de Órdraig
* '''Judgement:''' The Assembly of Nine acknowledges the deep impact of Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum on the Empire. Their loss this summit is felt heavily by the Assembly. Olyvar's work changed a nation, inspired an assembly, and is illustrated by the many title holders, national representatives, and holders of state who attended his last moments. The Assembly of Nine recognises the widespread effect that Olyvar had and looks forward to the Pride Assembly's recognition
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (6-0)

===Judgement 180===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Skywise Gralka
* '''Judgement:''' The Imperial Orc nation accepts the wisdom of the northern folk. Teach us the ways of snow and climb, let us learn from those who came before us. Varushka and Wintermark be our guide as we share your journey into Tsirku
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (60-0)

==Mandate==
===Judgement 3===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Ser Decimus of House de Bastion
* '''Judgement:''' Where they have sown fear, we will make flowers grow. We send Ser Decimus of House de Bastion with 25 doses of liao to encourage Dawn to take up arms. Glory is there for the taking.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (356-26)
* '''Enacted''' [[Push_for_victory#Greatest_Military_Force|Dawnish owners]] of a [[business]], [[farm]], [[fleet]], [[herb garden]], [[mana site]], [[mine]], or [[forest]] can change to to a [[military unit]] of the same resource level in the same territory without incurring a cost. Players wishing to take advantage of this opportunity should {{plot}}.

===Judgement 26===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ada of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement:''' The prosperity of our Varushkan kin is threatened by the harm done to the bees of Karov. With hard work, we can help them quell the fear that has overtaken their bees, and with the inspiration of Kvetmir Kvetmirovic renew trust between that symbol of Prosperity and the people of the vales. We send Ada of Balthazar's Vineyard with 50 doses of liao to spread auras of Prosperity, and to support the work of the vale of Zoloto to right what the Cold Sun has unbalanced.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (424-0)
* '''Enacted''' This mandate will help spread the inspiration of ''Kvetmir Kvetmirovic'', and the [[Saint_of_Bees#Ceremonies_of_Prosperity|expertise of the beekeepers of Zoloto]]. This will prevent the situation with bees in Varushka getting worse, and will slowly encourage bees to take residence in their hives again. It will take at least a year, and bee populations are unlikely to recover completely, but it will ensure there is no measurable impact on the prosperity of southern Varushka, and no lasting damage to the Prosperity of herb gardens, farms, forests, or businesses.
* '''Notes:''' The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 426

===Judgement 32===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Skaldsgrym
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtuous build up their fellows, they do not tear them down. We send Erlend with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Virtuous shrine at the Meeting Place. Let us display our Loyalty through the unity of words and deeds.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1490-60)
* '''Enacted''' Erlend will be responsible for a conjunction to the [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#The_Chains_That_Bind_Us|shrine on the grounds of Gull's Isle Hall]] at the Summer Solstice 388YE.

===Judgement 48===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Thritt
* '''Judgement:''' Mortal Ambition can conquer any obstacle, and unravel any mystery. We send Thritt with 100 doses of liao to urge the guides and explorers of Wintermark to reach out to their fellow Imperials and share the Wisdom of the wastes.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (220-0)
* '''Enacted''' The [[Snap rope and pass foil|penalty suffered by military units]] from nations other than Wintermark or Varushka when operating in the wastes will be reduced from a three-rank penalty to a one-rank penalty. This will apply whether they are scouting or exploring in Tsirku.
* '''Note:''' As Thritt is a [[Banner-Bearer|banner-bearer]], this mandate only cost one hundred liao

===Judgement 54===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Teleri Thornweaver
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtuous raise up their fellows. Any nation willing to raise arms and join the Vallornguard shall have our full support. We send Teleri Thornweaver with 50 doses of liao to lead our people in sharing everything we have with the League to prepare to finish the fight.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (252-0)
* '''Enacted''' Navarr from all walks of life [[Every_path_you_know#Thanks_for_Sharing|will travel to the named nation looking for ways to help]]. This will generate at least one opportunity for a new Imperial title to help the Vallornguard prepare for the fight with the enemy.

===Judgement 58===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ignacio i Zuhri i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' All things can have a price. We send Ignacio i Zuhri i Erigo with 50 doses of liao to encourage the Freeborn to hawk their wares to all and sundry. Strive, toil, and claim the just rewards of your labours!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (158-0)
* '''Enacted''' Encourages citizens across the Brass Coast to celebrate [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Deals|those Freeborn who are committed to taking every opportunity to turn a profit]], ignoring those who called for propriety or charity.

===Judgement 65===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Isario i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' We prize freedom and disdain arrogance. We send Isario i Riqueza with 50 doses of liao to encourage the citizens of Segura to create a place to discuss doctrine and encourage free thinkers. Every being deserves to live the life they want in the manner they wish.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (154-0)
* '''Enacted''' Encourage citizens across the Brass Coast to celebrate the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|legacy of the firebrands]] - the historical example set by the followers of Emperor Ahraz as well as those living exemplars who share their forebear's commitment to Virtue without doubt or fear, regardless of the disapproval of others

===Judgement 108===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Val
* '''Judgement:''' Life is short, let it never be dull! We send Val with 50 doses of liao to encourage the Freeborn to blaze new trails. Aim high and pursue your dreams, no matter the dangers.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (148-10)
* '''Enacted''' Encourage citizens across the Brass Coast to celebrate the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Adventure|trailblazers amongst them]] - they will applaud those Freeborn who are committed to overcoming challenges, regardless of the costs and heedless of the risks.

===Judgement 126===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Dag Kinnad
* '''Judgement:''' Prosperity says that we should share our bounty with those who are worthy of it, and the heroes who pursue the dream to Tsirku cannot help but be worthy. We send Hildelith Kaukosdottir with 50 doses of liao to urge the farmers and herders of Sermersuaq to support those who risk the wasteland as best they can.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (198-0)
* '''Enacted''' Reduces the benefit provided to farms in Sermersuaq by the Smokehouse of Atalaq. [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Comprehensible|Surplus provisions suitable for use in Tsirku]] will be sent to support the scouting network. For as long as these supplies are committed, each season a strength of 500 will be committed to the scouting network. This won't be enough to operate the network by itself, but it will bolster efforts in the north.

===Judgement 128===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Yrkja Riansson Sigeing
* '''Judgement:''' A good death awaits us. We send Yrkja Riansson Sigeing with 25 doses of liao to encourage Wintermark to ready themselves for war. A hero has a name.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (156-20)
* '''Enacted''' [[Push_for_victory#Greatest_Military_Force|Wintermark owners]] of a [[business]], [[farm]], [[fleet]], [[herb garden]], [[mana site]], [[mine]], or [[forest]] can change to to a [[military unit]] of the same resource level in the same territory without incurring a cost. Players wishing to take advantage of this opportunity should {{plot}}.

===Judgement 151===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Leliel, Daughter of Armisael
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtuous raise up their fellows. Any nation willing to raise arms and join the Vallornguard shall have our full support. We send Leliel, Daughter of Armisael, with 25 doses of liao to lead our people in sharing everything we have with the League to prepare to finish the fight.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (190-0)
* '''Enacted''' This use of Eyes of Loyalty supported [[#Judgement 54|Judgement 54]]

===Judgement 179===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Jim
* '''Judgement:''' A nation is much more than lines on a map. We send Skywise Rykana with 15 crowns to lead a delegation of mystagogues and shamans to discover more of the ancestors of the Great Forest Orcs.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (60-0)
* '''Enacted''' Skywise Rykana will lead a group of willing orcs [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|in search of information and lore about the ancestors of the Great Forest Orcs]].

==Writ of Consecration==
===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Estella Lucati
* '''Judgement:''' At the Autumn Equinox 387YE, the League National Assembly recognised the Great Chain of Sarvos as an Inspirational Location for it had repelled repeated assaults by idolatrous pirates. I beseech the Assembly to grant a Writ of Consecration so that the Great Chains may be blessed by the True Liao that was provided by the Sun Chamber for this purpose. The Great Chain stands as a marvel of ingenuity and engineering whilst embodying the tenet of 'Prepare for Malice, Yet Thwart Malice Before It Strikes Against You'.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (396-0)

===Judgement 79===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Anatolij Paukov Zorkin
* '''Judgement:''' An edifice has been built in Broken Ride, in Sarvos, to honour the Sodality of the Silent Bell, with half the white granite coming from the Virtue fund and half from Bryce the Hare. I call for a Writ of Consecration to Vigilance for this site
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (354-0)

===Judgement 116===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Basil Goodbeard
* '''Judgement:''' True courage is selfless. Emperor Ahraz dared to demand <u>liberation for the orcs</u> of the Empire, in the face of great opposition, risking his position and reputation to do what he knew was right. Our world was changed forever by that courageous act. <u>His tomb should be a beacon</u> to all those who fight for their convictions, Ashborn Osso among them. Her bones will join the guardians of this holy ground. <u>We have the true liao</u>: Ashborn Trosk will provide it. "Do not fear to act; only be shamed by inaction."
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (312-0)

===Judgement 125===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Eldrid 'Phoenix Flame' Vestardottir
* '''Judgement:''' The Empire is an amalgamation of our Ambitions. Each stronger as others take the burden. As Tian bore the flame, Umarth bore the consequence of decision. The Fist of the Mountains paid the price, now our Urizen must take the branches and carry the light. We call for a writ of consecration to build a flame that will burn on the docks of Elos. Let the mystics of Wintermark and the seers and illuminates of Urizen make pilgrimage. There they will reflect on the gift and burden of farsight, to show the Way to their people.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (332-0)

==Writ of Excommunication==
===Judgement 33===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kasmira Milankova Ygrev
* '''Judgement:''' To excommunicate is not a trivial act to be concealed, this assembly have made such clear. And so, in pursuit of employing every avenue to defeat the 'Earl of Groves', to resist the blight of its venom and risk all for their love of the Empire, I raise such a judgement against RHYDIAN DE RONDELL, Champion of Wisdom. I ask this assembly to cast them from this hearth in service of it. Don your cloak and take your fill of bread Rhydian, for this would be a parting. May the weight of this act measure against its worth
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at the request of the raising priest (530-174)

==Proscription==
===Judgement 43===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Caspian i Shartha i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' We the Synod proscribe the practice of Usury, defined as 'charging interest on a loan'. Under the law of Idolatry. The general assembly has already declared that "A Mizer who practices Usury is unvirtuous" Idolatry is "subsuming human will and destiny to any inhuman entity or force". And a Mizer hiding behind the inhuman force of Finance to pile up the riches of our Empire is doing exactly that.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (94-992)
* '''Note:''' This judgement <u>failed scrutiny</u> by the Constitutional Court before voting closed. If it had been upheld, it would have been declared unconstitutional.

===Judgement 66===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below
* '''Judgement:''' Idolatry is subsuming mortal will and destiny to an inhuman power. The manner of a person's death is of profound importance; for that death to be made subject to the whims of an eternal, sovereign, or other such entity is unacceptable. To end a person's life, or allow a person's life to end, as an offering to an inhuman power is idolatry
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1306-469)

===Judgement 72===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' It is heresy to actively encourage or preach that the established virtues or the Way are not helpful for the spiritual life of orcs or humans
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1292-380)

===Judgement 80===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Edward Watcher
* '''Judgement:''' Use of the rite of excommunication with the target's consent is not proscribed
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (822-214)

===Judgement 92===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kasjay
* '''Judgement:''' Oaths are important. Oathbreakers cannot be trusted. Synod titles are a position of trust. Breaking an oath while holding a Synod title is a breach of that trust and thus an abuse of priestly powers.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (598-964)

===Judgement 114===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod upholds the Doctrine of the Creator and proscribes as heresy the Theist Heresy, the claim that there are gods that seek dominance of, control over or communion with sapient spirits. We do not hereby proscribe any belief related to the Paragons or Exemplars
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1228-238)

===Judgement 115===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Merlof Von Temeschwar
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod upholds the Doctrine of the Labyrinth and hereby proscribes as Heresy the Realmist Heresy, a long-established heresy which claims that the Labyrinth of Ages is a realm of magic, and asserts that Paragons become Eternals. Seek out the Blight.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1241-196)

===Judgement 149===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lepidina
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod proscribes as idolatry the veneration, or entering the service of, an inhuman entity of the labyrinth, such as a labyrinth spirit
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (864-142)

===Judgement 150===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Gaelen Embercast
* '''Judgement:''' To proscribe as heresy the act of catching a soul such that its passage through the labyrinth is inhibited, against the Doctrine of the Labyrinth
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at the request of the raising priest (124-36)
* '''Note:''' This judgement <u>failed scrutiny</u> by the Constitutional Court before voting closed. If it had been upheld, it would have been declared unconstitutional.

===Judgement 171===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Edward Greyfriar
* '''Judgement:''' Doctrine is built on centuries of careful observation and liao based research, constantly honed by the insights and perspectives of those across the Empire and beyond. Due to orcs reaction to liao and the terrible crimes the Empire committed against the ancestors of the Imperial Orcs, the Doctrines of the Howling Abyss and the Ancestors have shallower foundations than the rest. As such, practice of beliefs conflicting with these Doctrines shall not be Proscribed so we may learn, not suppress.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (420-378)
* '''Note:''' This judgement was subject to the [[The_Throne#Custodian_of_Virtue|Custodian of Virtue]] power of the Throne, and needed a greater majority to be upheld

==Inquisition==
===Judgement 4===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Corey Wayfarer
* '''Judgement:''' Cadwell of the Waystone Path, it is time we discussed your virtue and conduct during your time as general. As such I invite you to inquisition at 9pm on Saturday of this summit at the Brackensong camp. Cheese will be provided.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (252-0)

===Judgement 40===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Bella Vicente d'Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' Pride is in deeds not words. Elagabala talks a lot of talk. Let's see if it holds up to scrutiny. 12pm. Saturday. Spring 388. Celestial Eclipse, League.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (10-0)

===Judgement 61===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Emmeline Weaver
* '''Judgement:''' There's some nasty rumours going about that General Amberlain Black, Hero of Bregasland, is a Hate cultist. Let's lay these to rest. I call Amberlain to inquisition, 16:45, House de Gauvain, Dawn
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (148-0)

===Judgement 95===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark
* '''Judgement:''' I call Mael, Marshal of the Faith, to inquisition at 11:00 on Sunday of this summit to investigate their view on the efficacy and virtuous effect of their role.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (196-0)

===Judgement 129===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Vauraus "Prosperity's Forge" Korppitkotka
* '''Judgement:''' I call Gancio di Catazar to inquisition at 10:30AM on Sunday at the Spring Equinox 388YE to answer why they arranged a wayleaf to announce a commission that has had no progress and will now lapse
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (23-0)

===Judgement 157===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' Friar Book: so far we know you only by the hallowings you have wrough and second hand reports of your preaching. We would seek to know you in person. Come to Anvil, Summer 388, and speak to me of your teachings.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (92-60)

===Judgement 160===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Kellin Embercast
* '''Judgement:''' I have walked with Gaelen Embercast for three years. Now, as they set aside their Cardinalship, I wish to ask them some difficult questions. I do so as a dedicant of Loyalty, preaching their sworn virtue, so my questions concern themselves with the intersection of Loyalty and Vigilance. When they have faced challenges that set these virtues at odds with each other, how have they acted? At the Summer Solstice, I invite Gaelen to join me to discuss this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (108-0)

===Judgement 173===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' Polk Thornweaver. You've been working your arse off for the nation. Let's chat about it. Woven roots, next summit - we'll figure out the most prosperous time
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (90-0)

===Writs of Inquisition===
The following writs of inquisition were issued this summit:
{|
| '''Called by''' || '''Subject''' || '''Judgement or Title''' || '''Matter'''
|-
| Corey Wayfarer || Cadwell Waystone Path || [[#Judgement 4|Judgement 4]] || His virtue and conduct as [[general]]
|-
| Bella Vincente d'Apulian || Elagabala || [[#Judgement 40|Judgement 40]] || Her [[pride]]
|-
| Emmeline Weaver || Amberlain P. Black || [[#Judgement 61|Judgement 61]] || Rumours of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Hate|hatred]]
|-
| Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark || Mael || [[#Judgement 95|Judgement 95]] || Efficacy & virtuous effect as [[Marshal of the Faith]]
|-
| Vauraus "Prosperity's Forge" Korppitkotka || Gancio di Catazar || [[#Judgement 129|Judgement 129]] || A lapsing commission
|-
| Galene Netherwatch || Bloodcrow Arora || [[Arcane Inquisitor]] || Lessons learnt and to be learnt
|-
| Vauraus "Prosperity's Forge" Korppitkotka || [[Empress Vesna|Empress Vesna Borkovna Prochnost]] || [[Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] || Their statement in Senate regarding the raising of [[Imperial army|armies]]
|-
| Alfred Eawolfson || Charlie Skinner || [[Basilisk of the Bourse]] || Virtue and economics
|-
| Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost || Lady Laudine du Lac || [[Imperial Inquisitor]] || Her time as [[Chaplain Consular]] and Fintan Nighthaven
|-
| Lady Abreya De Lagriffe || Morrigan Mortére || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]] || Rumours of association with [[Agramant]]
|-
| Masha Sigeling || Zoria of the Circle of Zulgan-Tash || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] || Her [[courage]]
|-
| Eevi of the Gadrai || Talos of the Silent Tide || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] || His words & deeds as [[Champion of Loyalty]], at the Summer summit
|-
| Jedediah Boon || Lofyn Bloodcloak || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] || A challenge to her [[pride]]
|-
| Iniska Ashwood || Cain Coffers of House Vortekar || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || The pledge he made when taking his seat, at the Summer summit
|-
| Brother Geoffrey Orchard || Gwen Tendfallen || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] || Received wisdom, orthodox and otherwise
|-
| Nim of Ebon's Hall || Kaisarion of the Court of the Rat King || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]] || A controversial pamphlet
|-
|}

==Sanction==
===Judgement 22===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Magistrate Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo. The Wisdom Assembly has reviewed the aura you gained from Rachensgrab and find no issue, my colleagues and I deem the spontaneous aura of no threat to your soul or impediment to your position. Consider what you have learned from this aura - perhaps you have learned all you can.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (294-0)

===Judgement 38===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Nim, of Ebon's Hall
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Last summit, my inquisition revealed that Iniska Ashwood certainly displays much wisdom. I learned a greater appreciation of the role we can play to encourage souls back to the Path of Virtue. However, I hope they learned something from me - to be wary of the folly of those close to you. Each summit from now until Spring 389YE, report the results of an insight to me, conducted towards someone close to you.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (134-0)

===Judgement 76===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Abreya deLagriffe
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Leon of House Castellan is currently not reaching his full potential ambition but I believe that with correct steps this can be achieved. Leon has performed great acts of glory but must acknowledge the pride and worthiness in those actions and convert those into further ambitions. I task Leon to the following penance: discuss with nobles both within and without his house what it means to be noble; consider and provide actionable steps he can perform that would make him feel worthy of asking for a test of mettle.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (290-0)

===Judgement 86===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Neala Blackhawk's inquisition revealed that she is as steadfast and enduring as a great oak tree. She has continued to build up those within her nation and bring disparate groups such as the Thorns and the National Assembly together. Her loyalty to Navarr is clear and she acts on it whenever an opportunity presents itself. I vindicate her and will testimony her "Path Weaver" so all can see the truth on her soul.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (126-0)

===Judgement 113===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune on behalf of Donato of the Crucible
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Cosmé placed a curse upon Veikko Bondforger <u>but</u> their actions were spurred by Loyalty and ceased from escalating for the same Loyalty. <u>However</u>, in considering their role as chief magistrate, pursual of a hurt for a hurt, no matter how well thought through, is a step closer to the false virtue of Vengeance. As <u>penance</u>, I request they think through what their action may have been in the scenario that their loyalty did <u>not</u> stay their hand; and how that may impact the Empire. Report back to Donato in two seasons' time.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (114-0)

===Judgement 120===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Larkin Otterways
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I called Brother Luke to Inquisition Autumn Y387. My judgement is: <u>Vindication</u>. The spontaneous Loyalty dedication is genuine. I can find no fault in his story of reaction to this experience. Luke exhibits a number of signs: Inspiration, Legacy, Miracles, Pilgrimage, Recognition, Salvation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (112-22)

===Judgement 127===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Vauraus "Prosperity's Forge" Korppitkotka
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Following inquisition of Natalia 'the Falcon' Barossa on her actions as Quartermaster General, I commend her: attention to detail; Ambition, Loyalty, Prosperity, and Wisdom in driving down the price of Brotherhood of Tian and Spiral Castle; Courage to change what has always been; Loyalty to the Empire and its armies. I intend to testimony '"Peerless Logistician" on her soul, as she is.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (2-0)

===Judgement 153===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Arvel Tendfallen
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' I inquisited Silas of the Cenotaph and found his actions were not due to lack of virtue, but lack of rest. A cardinal must not only act with virtue, but communicate clearly and be seen to act with virtue. For the duration of his time as cardinal, Silas must ensure he is well rested enough to fulfil this role.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (96-0)

===Judgement 158===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ardeniel of the Woodwych Harts
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' A artefact Litany of the Labyrinth has now been created for all 10 nations of the Empire. No longer will those at Anvil need worry for their souls passage into the Labyrinth due to want of resources to create a Litany of their own. National sects may now protect their citizens from the vile actions of the Druj and vallorn permanently. For this we have Nira of Canitarch's Hold to thank. She has worked tirelessly for over seven years to gather ilium and create these artefacts nearly entirely by her own hand. There is no challenge a dedicated soul cannot overcome. Follow her example!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (266-0)

===Judgement 159===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Drusilla of the Woodwych Harts
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Whilst the death of Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum was an unquestionable loss to Highguard, the vast number of siblings from almost every nation queuing to pay their respects demonstrates that this will be felt across the Empire. It took over an hour for all present to pass on through the chapel to say their final goodbyes, and before he passed into the Labyrinth twelve priests representing several nations dedicated Olyvar to Pride. Death traditions and rites from all nations present were performed. Let Olyvar's passing serve as inspiration to us all, for our words and deeds of virtue impact not only those close to us, but all nations across the Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (232-12)

===Judgement 162===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Emmeline Weaver
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I inquisited Amberlain in company with Lenarius Ankarien, Dame Arlette d'Ossienne, Friar Duncan of Ashill, and Martin Orchard. Amberlain Black has been a Devotee of Loyalty since 384. The Oaths she swore to defend Bregasland are LOYALTY oaths, witnessed by Loyalty priests of the Marches. Amberlain is giving Loyal service to the Empire in a time of War, furthering amity and co-operation between Nations. Just this season, she gave up opportunities in Bregas and Mitwold to defend Sarangrave and Mareave. This us <u>not</u> the action of a <u>Hate Cultist</u>. I advise her to be vigilant about the company she keeps.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (152-0)

===Judgement 166===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Bella Vicente d'Apulian
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Elagabala is a spectacular individual. Her achievements eclipse those who come before and she is a master of her art. This is clear to see: yet she has said she cannot have Pride in herself until she transcends. Wisdom is always incomplete; Pride cannot wait for completion either. Become Proud of yourself for who you are now, and at every step of your life. Each summit for one year, find a Priest priest and tell them what you are proud of in <u>yourself</u>.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (60-0)

===Judgement 168===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose. You are no idolator, but you have been reckless with the souls of those soldiers over whom you held responsibility. Your actions are not without virtue - but I worry about the echo of Irra Harrah's philosophies in the actions you took. In penance, I ask that you cease playing Irra Harrah's game - stand proud as I know you can. Run no longer, hide not, fight as it is your choice. You are no mouse, Guy. Stop acting like one.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (0-0)

===Judgement 172===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I called Mendicant Garev to inquisition to investigate his Prosperity in light of his recent misadventures. I cannot fault his Prosperity. I wish to invite him back to Anvil to thank him for bearing a troll-cursed cup to us. It is being returned to Tharim to save Mitwold from a curse, and I intend to reward and recompense him for this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (76-0)
* '''Notes:''' Mendicant Garev has asked the civil service to let it be known that whilst he is pleased that he was able to help, he wishes any reward to be donated to the Virtue fund. He is rich in faith and friends, and that is all he feels he needs

==Recognition==
===Judgement 93===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Amos
* '''Judgement:''' I call for Barabbas to be recognised as an exemplar of Ambition, embodying the tenet that "it is better by far to try and fail, than never to have tried at all". His legacy lives on in Freeborn corsairs, in Caricomare and in Segura. His benevolence lives on in the ports and cities he built, the trade routes he founded, and the maps drawn from his explorers. His miraculous final address, and the aura of ambition it bears two centuries on, is an inspiration to mariners, explorers and adventurers to the cenotaph, and to all those who seek to do what "cannot be done". Barabbas is an exemplar for all those who dare to dream.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (362-56)

==Exaltation==
===Judgement 35===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Halwyn Splitroot
* '''Judgement:''' Great artists whose art inspires virtue should be exalted. Idwyn Splitroot has inspired Pride across the Empire with her song "Painted". Heard by every Navarr, sung with every binding of thorns, now inspiring the troubadours of Dawn. We exalt Idwyn, recognising her artistic works and dedication to inspiring pride in others.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (192-22)
* '''Notes:''' Idwyn Splitroot has been added to the [[Exaltation|Roll of the Exalted]]

===Judgement 70===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Sybilla Cattaneo di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' Azeal of Rumah's Redoubt recognised the great opportunities presented to the Empire by expanding the pool of appraisers but knew that the Senate budget has little slack for anything outside the war effort. He generously offered to fund the appraisers for their first year bringing the potential for opportunities old and to become available to the Empire that would not have been possible before. We recognise Azeal for his hard work in raising the funds to ensure the opportunity was not wasted and in his generosity in spending his hard earned money in a way that will benefit so many over the coming year.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (132-74)

==Appointment==
===Judgement 1===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Ambition]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Lenarius Ankarien''' was appointed with 254 votes; Wulfric received 50 votes; Callista received 36 votes; Ser Purslane Artorigus received 14 votes

===Judgement 2===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Vigilance]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Adel de Òrdraig''' was appointed with 130 votes; Viviane Barossa received 102 votes; Aemon of the Suns of Couros received 88 vote; Bryce the Hare received 42 votes

===Judgement 12===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Lepidean Librarian]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower''' was appointed with 312 votes; Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament received 140 votes

===Judgement 13===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Custodian of the Omphalos]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Raine Tealeaf''' was appointed with 158 votes

===Judgement 16===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Seeker of the Perfect World]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Abel the Rounder''' was appointed with 148 votes

===Judgement 18===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Beneficiary of the Golden Cascade]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Hester of Sarangrave Reforged''' was appointed with 158 votes

===Judgement 19===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of the Twin Roses]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ser Asa Scrivener''' was appointed with 236 votes; Remy Dyer de la Griffe received 114 votes

===Judgement 23===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Prosperity]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Tom Appelseed''' was appointed with 173 votes

===Judgement 24===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Singer of the Silence]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nathair Autumngale''' was appointed with 246 votes; Brenna Pineflght received 0 votes

===Judgement 28===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Speaker of the Crows]]
* '''Outcome:''' Nobody achieved a majority. Hildelith of Snowperch Hall received 86 votes; Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark received 86 votes

===Judgement 34===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Vauraus Korppitkotka''' was appointed with 4 votes

===Judgement 39===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Curator of Memories]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Alexei of Dark Water Vale''' was appointed with 146 votes

===Judgement 45===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sarah of the Suns of Couros''' was appointed with 302 votes

===Judgement 51===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Courage]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ada of House Meliora''' was appointed with 196 votes; Ioan Longshadow received 20 votes; Zeke di Tassato Mestra received 16 votes

===Judgement 56===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Map to the City Below]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below''' was appointed with 156 votes; Enzo de Tassato received 54 votes

===Judgement 69===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Neala Blackhawk''' was appointed with 148 votes

===Judgement 74===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' was appointed with 136 votes

===Judgement 78===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Jedediah Boon''' was appointed with 122 votes; Lady Alisa Tamerlaine received 20 votes

===Judgement 99===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Guide to the Lost]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Firesong Galath''' was appointed with 38 votes

===Judgement 102===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Amris Johan Merikovich''' was appointed with 107 votes

===Judgement 124===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Archivist of the Echoing Obelisk]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Dariel of the Woodwych Harts''' was appointed with 196 votes

==Rewarding==
===Judgement 17===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Donato of the Crucible
* '''Judgement:''' The Empire is beset on all sides by enemies - our military is stretched. An opportunity presents to create a <u>ritual text</u> which would allow our armies to <u>resupply</u> under <u>any</u> circumstance. This text will save Imperial lives and give the Empire a new tool to fight our enemies. The Throne has thanked Herminius of the House of the Wanderer in her recent address for this support in building the third League army. We ask he is <u>rewarded</u> 40 thrones to complete codification faster and purchase resources for further prosperous work
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (514-326)

===Judgement 21===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Laurencio di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' Seventy-five citizens of the Empire sacrificed Personal Prosperity for Imperial Vigilance and the chance to capture Grendel spies. These efforts would have succeeded but for the acts of three Traitors within the Empire. Nevertheless, Virtue should be Rewarded lest citizens be discouraged from future sacrifice when called upon. We Reward those citizens with 22 Thrones from the Virtue Fund to be share amongst them according to their sacrifice.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (843-336)

===Judgement 30===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Athiel Westernborn of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' In Autumn 386YE (Judgement 4) the full force of the Synod showed their wish to bring spiritual enlightenment to the waylaid and the downtrodden of Asavea. We did so with the full understanding of the magnitude of this project, and with awareness of its costs. Priests, why have you let the fires of your Ambition dwindle to embers? Even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. As such, we request 8 wains of white granite to be disbursed from the Virtue Fund to continue anchoring the Way in Asavea. Consequences are the price of Ambition. We are willing to pay the costs.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (652-334)

===Judgement 36===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lord Julien de Courtenay-Wyldrose
* '''Judgement:''' The High Exorcist and their house have spent in excess of <u>20 thrones</u> to defend the Empire against spiritual threat. We seek to reward their personal prosperity and let them continue their work. Let 20 thrones be allocated to their seneschal, Mathilde Caster, for the purchase of: Silent Bell and Labyrinthine Vestments to be lent to any citizen in need; and liao bought in bulk
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (600-276)

===Judgement 37===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Hildelith Kaukosdottir
* '''Judgement:''' Countless times we have pronounced ourselves in favour of the free preaching of the Way in Asavea. It is time to make good on our promises. We reward the refugees of Ibaria with 50 thrones. They have shown boundless Courage and Ambition in the fight against the Asavean Plenum, and have built a new life in Virtue here in the Empire. They have given everything for Virtue. We should seek to repay them in kind.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (398-502)

===Judgement 42===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Miroslav Dainovitch Temnavoda
* '''Judgement:''' Last summit, Varushka had the opportunity to purge the insidious threat of face-peeling monsters. Rather than draw the Boyar's Hasta from its vital role elsewhere, heroes across Varushka committed military units to this task, many sacrificing their own resources to take up arms for the first time. Mana from across the nation was poured into enchantments to boost the strength of these units. This resulted in an assembled force equivalent to an army. Thanks to these efforts, the Boyar's Hasta remained committed to the vital role it played in Sarangrave, and the operation to root out the face peelers was an overwhelming success. I ask for Thirty Thrones from the Virtue Fund to be disbursed among those Ambitious citizens who stand as an example to all of what can be achieved with sufficient drive and focus.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, 28 thrones, 1 crown, and 11 rings rewarded (450-426)

===Judgement 63===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Vera
* '''Judgement:''' Five years ago the first sermon on the Way in Ossium ended with the declaration 'together we rise in greatness'. I seek 20 thrones to reward the ossians who have reached the greatest heights since liberation: Volya, cardinal of the Way; Velko, senator for Ossium; Sigismund, general of the Golden Axe; Sławomir, leading diplomatic efforts in the Mallum
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (282-514)

===Judgement 67===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Oleander Dreamsreach
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Geraint Bronwyn's Rest with 8 wains of white granite to be put towards the City of Dreams. This is an investment into the future of the Navarr and will allow us to seek new ways to use liao.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (333-414)

===Judgement 104===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' For the last 4 years, the Mountains' Answer, a block of military units 4000+ strong, have made themselves strategically available to the Military Council to be deployed wherever is deemed necessary to the Empire. Let us reward this Loyalty with 20 thrones, to be given to Floria Sunshaper, to be shared amongst these captains
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, but none remain (260-252)

===Judgement 111===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Marialena Von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' As Senator of Holberg, Kaspar von Yakovitch has inspired great Virtue in our citizens from Pride as we were awarded the Greatest City, to Ambition in building the Great Walls. His Virtue extends to the wider Empire, sharing the Prosperity of the League by creating an Imperial position from a National Bourse seat. As a young citizen inspired by this Virtue. I ask, on behalf of Holberg, that he is rewarded with four wains of weirwood.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (300-208)

==Special Considerations==
The following considerations should be borne in mind when bringing judgements before the Imperial Synod during the Summer Solstice.
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Assembly'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Consideration'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Duration'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Statements that prioritise the greater good over personal loyalties are less effective.</td><td>[[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Statements that try to compel Loyalty will fail.</td><td>[[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Revocations and Excommunications for disloyalty to the nation or Empire risk causing dissent.</td><td>[[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Any mandate that does not pass with a greater majority will have limited or no effect on Urizen or Varushka. It is not impossible that a mandate might lead to a response in one of the two nations, but it won't lead to any immediate consequences for the people of the nation. </td><td>[[Hard_and_suspecting#The_Urizen_Assembly|Urizen Link]]<br>[[Hard_and_suspecting#The_Varushkan_Assembly|Varushka Link]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Any mandate that does not pass with a greater majority will have limited or no effect on Wintermark unless enacted by the Wintermark Assembly. It is not impossible that a mandate might lead to a response in the nation, but it won't lead to any immediate consequences for the people of the nation. </td><td>[[The_final_cut#Questions_for_Wintermark|The final cut]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Statements that stress the need to follow Imperial law rather than virtue will be unlikely to lead to a mandate.</td><td>[[Knocking_on_every_door#A_Paper_Shield|Knocking on every door]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
</table>

==The Virtue Fund==
At the start of the Spring Equinox 388YE summit, the Virtue Fund stood as follows:
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Money'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mithril'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''White Granite'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''True Liao'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>110 thrones, 1 crown, 11 rings</td><td>6 wains</td><td>8 wains</td><td>8 wains</td><td>nil</td>
</table>

Total donations made were:
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Money'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mithril'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''White Granite'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''True Liao'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>72 thrones, 1 crown, 17 rings</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td>
</table>

The total amounts carried forward to the next summit were:
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Money'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mithril'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''White Granite'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''True Liao'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>72 thrones, 1 crown, 17 rings</td><td>6 wains</td><td>nil</td><td>4 wains</td><td>nil</td>
</table>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of donations received prior to the start of the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 1 throne, 2 crowns at the [[Rewarding#Counting Houses|counting house]] of [[Reikos]]
* 2 thrones at the counting house of [[Tassato]]
* 1 throne, 3 crowns at the counting house of [[Semmerholm]]
* 1 throne, 4 crowns at the counting house of [[Karsk]]
* 6 wains of mithril, 8 wains of white granite and 8 wains of weirwood from [[The_greatest_plurality#One_Empire|various donations]]
</div>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of Rewardings made at the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 22 thrones to '''Laurencio di Sarvos''' following [[#Judgement 21|Judgement 21]] being upheld (margin 510)
* 20 thrones to '''Mathilde Caster''' following the death of '''Julien de Courtenay-Wyldrose''' and [[#Judgement 36|Judgement 36]] being upheld (margin 324)
* 8 wains of white granite to '''Athiel Westernborn of the Cenotaph''' following [[#Judgement 30|Judgement 30]] being upheld (margin 318)
* 40 thrones to '''Donato of the Crucible''' following [[#Judgement 17|Judgement 17]] being upheld (margin 188)
* 28 thrones, 1 crown, 17 rings to '''Miroslav''' following [[#Judgement 42|Judgement 42]] being upheld (margin 24)
* 4 wains of weirwood to '''Morialena von Holberg''' following [[#Judgement 111|Judgement 111]] being upheld (margin 92)
</div>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of donations made during the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 70 thrones for the Bourse dose of True Liao from '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian'''
* 6 crowns from '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian'''
* 4 crowns from '''Tom Appleseed'''
* 2 crowns, 11 rings from '''Leonardo i Del'Toro i Riqueza'''
* 1 crown from '''Barak of the Inheritance of Atun'''
* 1 crown, 5 rings from '''Veikko Bondforger'''
* 1 crown from "Emperor Nicovar"
* 1 crown from '''Berith Martel'''
* 1 crown from '''Emperor Vesna Borkovna Prochnost'''
* 1 ring in small donations
</div>

==Doses of True Liao==

Six doses of [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]] were disbursed this summit:
* One dose to '''Vesna Borkovna Prochnost''' as [[the Throne]]
* One dose to '''Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower''' as [[Lepidean Librarian]]
* One dose to '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian''' by purchase in the [[Public auction|Public Auction]]
* One dose to '''Nathair Autumngale''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Mayra Zoronova Prochnost''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Jedediah Boon''' by decision of the Gatekeepers

==Assembly Strength==
The table below shows the size, total voting strength and greater majority thresholds for each assembly as calculated at the start of the summit.

{|
! scope=""col"" style=""width: 320px;"" | Virtue Assembly
! Assembly Size
! Total Voting Strength
! Greater Majority Threshold
|-
|Ambition || 47 || 644 || 323
|-
|Courage || 29 || 372 || 187
|-
|Loyalty || 53 || 710 || 356
|-
|Pride || 28 || 324 || 163
|-
|Prosperity || 30 || 355 || 178
|-
|Vigilance || 64 || 762 || 382
|-
|Wisdom || 45 || 558 || 280
|-
|The Way || 23 || 268 || 135
|-
|General || 319 || 3993 || 1997
|-
|}

{|
! scope=""col"" style=""width: 320px;"" | National Assembly
! Assembly Size
! Total Voting Strength
! Greater Majority Threshold
|-
|Brass Coast || 16 || 208 || 105
|-
|Dawn || 55 || 738 || 370
|-
|Highguard || 67 || 850 || 426
|-
|Imperial Orcs || 7 || 82 || 42
|-
|League || 34 || 474 || 238
|-
|Marches || 19 || 208 || 105
|-
|Navarr || 36 || 439 || 220
|-
|Urizen || 26 || 304 || 153
|-
|Varushka || 25 || 318 || 160
|-
|Wintermark || 34 || 372 || 187
|-
|General || 319 || 3993 || 1997
|-
|}
==Anchor the Way in Asavea==
Click ''Expand'' to see the list of contributions made to Anchor the Way in Asavea.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
{{CommissionProgress|Anchor_the_Way_in_Asavea}}
</div>

387YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements

2026-07-21T22:41:58Z

Kirkbride:

[[Category: Synod]] [[Category:Synod Results]] [[Category: Synod Judgements]][[Category: 387YE Winter]]

<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Winter 387 Synod judgements.jpg|align=right|width=400|caption=The Synod raised a hundred and sixty judgements.}}</div>
==Overview==
During the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Imperial Synod raised 160 judgements.

==Statement of Principle==
Fifty-seven [[Statement of Principle|statements of principle]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 11===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Brynn Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' The crises of recent years have exposed a weakness in the Imperial Way. Wisdom teaches us to test what we know. We must work to build a Way that is strengthened by truth, not threatened by it. This is the highest calling of our Assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (46-100)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 13===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Luke
* '''Judgement:''' The scars of Whittle run deep. A people massacred due to zealotry. The Marchers know too well the risks of following your traditions. While the Marchers have no intent of undermining the Synod’s spiritual authority, the fact of the matter remains; A Marcher, A Marcher. Should the Synod proscribe the beliefs of the Marcher Orcs as heretical, the Marches as a whole will defend their neighbours as they would any other Marcher unduly persecuted. To echo the words of the First Empress: “You will take all of us, or none of us.” The Synod may make it’s choice.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (146-50)
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">
{|
|+ <big>'''Judgement Quick Links'''</big>
! Judgement Type
! Amount
|-
|[[#Statement of Principle|Statement of Principle]]|| 57
|-
|[[#Mandate|Mandate]] || 11
|-
|[[#Writ of Consecration|Writ of Consecration]] || 2
|-
|[[#Revocation|Revocation]] || 1
|-
|[[#Proscription|Proscription]] || 15
|-
|[[#Inquisition|Inquisition]] || 9
|-
|[[#Sanction|Sanction]] || 25
|-
|[[#Recognition|Recognition]] || 2
|-
|[[#Appointment|Appointment]] || 21
|-
|[[#Rewarding|Rewarding]] || 14
|-
|}
</div>
===Judgement 16===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Jedidiah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' The sacred Hallowed Bells of Virtue have come to gather Marcher Inspiration, shepherded by Ardeniel of the Woodwych Harts! To Upwold, the Bell of Prosperity will chime the work song, keeping the ploughs in line; the Bell of Wisdom will turn minds to tactics to fortify our land. To Bregasland, the Bell of Loyalty will follow General Amberlain, echoing her call; the Bell of Ambition will sound with the Strong Reeds as they rise. To Mournwold, the Bell of Pride will ring from the hillside of Rebellion’s Ridge, for the miners’ cause; the Bell of Vigilance will beat the bounds, readying for attack. To Mitwold, where we would send others, we send only one; the Bell of Courage. Sound it on the border. Sound it over Fort Fidelis. Sound it where the Jotun will hear. We are a Nation of hospitality and a Nation at war. We will protect these Bells with our lives and honour carrying them on their journey.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (196-0)

===Judgement 20===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Eurybia of the Wanderers
* '''Judgement:''' The Urizen national assembly approves the awarding of the Golden Cascade to Darien Numbers. Their use of the Eyes of Prosperity upon Zenith, and their generous support in building the benefice of the Golden Cascade proves themselves a virtuous friend and ally of Urizen. Citizens of Zenith - witness your donations in use.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (206-0)
__TOC__
===Judgement 21===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa d’Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' The Hallowing of the Master teaches us to use others as tools to further our own aspirations: spreading the Way across the world. We should therefore seek a way to incorporate neighbouring foreign powers, and defeated barbarian nations, into the Empire as vassal-states, using them as a buffer against external aggression while their culture adapts to Imperial rule. Ultimately, this may allow them to join the Empire as an eleventh, twelfth, or twentieth nation once they have learned the Way and their place in it. We should look first to apply this to the Druj septs once we defeat their leaders, the vile Buruk-Tepel. This is our Highest Calling.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (368-80)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 22===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Dagon Barossa of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' The truly virtuous are loyal even through hardship and misfortune. The Loyalty Assembly took the first step to anchor the Way in Asavea and we will not falter now! We search for Loyalty sects inspired by the actions of Exemplar Alberto Acciai that we might support to help further anchor the Way in Asavea. This is our Highest Calling.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (302-162)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 25===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Samantha “Tongs” Barossa
* '''Judgement:''' AS PRELATE OF ADELMAR’S SHRINE, I CALL ALL LEAGUISH BRAVO’S and MERCENARIES TO RAISE THEIR SWORDS AGAINST THE DARKNESS IN THE WILD PLACES OF SPIRAL.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (302-22)
* '''Notes:''' A call to action for the League to clear out the threats present in Spiral, as per the '''[[My_friends_are_my_estate#Swords_Against_Darkness|My friends are my estate]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 27===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Isario i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' Live brazenly, fiercely, and truthfully; so that your life becomes proof of what is right. Cast down the chains of tyranny, fear and empty tradition wherever you find them! Act with Courage to choose what you know is true and moral, and confront the world when it stands against you. By inspired by the Exemplar Ahraz, who had the Courage to champion freedom, dignity, and prosperity, and seized them for all, through daring action and unflinching conviction. We were brave, wise, and ambitious enough to reject slavery, break it’s chains on our Empire and then on the world. We are the Freeborn heirs of a legacy of brazen passion, morality, and liberty. We do not just think it, or believe it, we live it. <u>We are fiercely proud of our culture and its freedom of ideas. We must protect and nurture both so that they can flourish. This is our Highest Calling.</u>
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (32-116)

===Judgement 35===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Gwen Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' The Way as it exists is built upon a crumbling foundation of hearsay. The truth was supposedly contained in High Guard libraries, but those have been burned on the accusation of falsehood. It is paramount to the goals of the Way and the Empire that this hearsay be challenged. To test what we think we know about the nature of Virtue, the labyrinth, and the Way is the highest calling of this assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (248-96)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 36===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Nathair Autumngale
* '''Judgement:''' From the very heartlands of this Empire, to the furthest lands touched by Virtue. We are the blood of the Empire, we are Shepherds of the Great Dance and we find ourselves entwined with our fellow Nations as never before. Paths in the dance braided together in these moments. Bring our voice through the veins of the trods that cross the lands while they resonate with our song. In the midst of winter we gather at the hearth, at home. At Wayhouse, Stead, and Tarry. We trade Song and Story with one another, and regales our history, our tale, our culture. Take heed these words, commit to memory these songs, and as winter turns to spring, bring them as a chord along these resonant trods. Bring them to our closest allies and the furthest reaches of our Empire both, so that all know that even when this magic has faded. As sure as the seasons do change. Where Navarr go, music follows.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (265-0)

===Judgement 38===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Nere
* '''Judgement:''' With the new year Highguard reaffirms its claim on the Salt Flats of Sanath once more. Necropolis is our past. Bastion is our present. Leen will be our future. These 3 cities will become the defining Pilgrimage path of our faith. And Leen itself will be our gateway to lands far across the sea and through its virtuous rebirth we will show the world the power of our faith. Highguard, there will be challenges in this endeavour, so we call on you to plan ahead. Consider the challenges we will face and how we may prepare to face them. We shall sow Virtue where they wrought filth.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (542-10)
* '''Notes:''' References a previous [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_111|judgement]] from the Summer Solstice 386YE

===Judgement 40===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Hans
* '''Judgement:''' During the Fall of Therunin, Great Forest Orcs were taken by the Druj and are now enslaved across the Salt Flats and The Mallum. Viture calls for us to show that the Empire will do anything to never allow slavery to happen under our watch. Our unconquered and military units, use your expertise to liberate the Great Forest Orcs who where enslaved by the Druj. We have laid claim on the salt flats - this is one step of many to inspire the inhabitants and our allies with our virtuous deed
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (500-0)

===Judgement 42===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Nicodemus of Balthazar’s Vineyard
* '''Judgement:''' The Grand Inspiration is now two-thirds complete. In those stones lie a promise. Designed by an Orc and a Marcher and funded by contributions from citizens of all ten nations of the Empire, this peerless structure proves to the world that in the Way of Virtue, and in this Empire, all people can achieve their highest destiny. Let us ignite the Empire’s Pride and ensure the greatest construction of our lifetimes is a flourishing success for all. The Virtuous must create what none can rival. This is our highest calling.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (34-132)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune. Refers to the [[Construct Grand Inspiration of the Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]].

===Judgement 44===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Dr Lysimachus
* '''Judgement:''' At recent summits, we’ve had Wanderer Tulpas showing up in Anvil. Going round tossing out curses as if they were handing out sweets on t’sweet corner, and just generally being a bloody nuisance. This includes cursing some of us as a “Lesson in Hubris”. After asking us for directions.. Now some may say ‘who are we to question the workings of the minds of such lofty and unknowable entities?’ And I says Bugger That! If some Pretentious Polestar-Wannabe Pillock is gonna curse Virtuous folk for “Hubris” because they’re the one who had to stop and ask Us for directions, then I’ve got too much Imperial Pride to let their folly slide. Besides I thought the Stars were meant to be Bright? So Sod off to these Sneering Stellar Snobs Says !. Tha’s not welcome in our lands.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (166-68)

===Judgement 47===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Kellin Embercast
* '''Judgement:''' Bloodcrow Meep is campaigning to rebuild Thornsong House in Skarsind, where it can benefit from the expertise of the Yerende. I know that this will not sit easy with some in Navarr. Last Spring, Travid Longest Path’s statement that Thornsong House is “the living legacy of Therunin”, the heart of Navarr’s potioncraft, was upheld in this Assembly with a greater majority. But Courage tells us to respond to defeat by adapting our strategy and trying anew. We do not know when Therunin will return to us, but we do know that Skarsind is secure from the grasping hands of the Druj. Our nation already has an enclave there, thanks to the Ashen Tears and their Wayhouse. I urge this Assembly to throw its support behind Meep’s plan. Let us share the fruits of Therunin’s proud legacy, and forge a new one together in the forests of Skarsind.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (225-16)

===Judgement 53===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Eli of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' The completion of the Grand Inspiration of the Way is the highest calling of the nation of Highguard. Through its completion we will lay the foundations necessary to inspire pilgrims to spread the Way across the known world. It will be the greatest tool we will leave our future lives and a legacy that will endure.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (750-0)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[Construct Grand Inspiration of the Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]]. Further information on highest callings can be found in the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 54===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Mael of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' BEHOLD: VIRTUE! As the MARSHALL of the FAITH, I bid ye witness that the following were multiply commended by diverse FIELD MARSHALLS and COMMANDERS for their WISDOM and BRAVERY in recent battles: EIRA LARKSONG and ROWAN BELLWOOD, GUNTHER, VESPASIAN of TROPAION CITADEL, AKSEL REZNOV RAZORADZE, THE VINES OF NAVARR, THE IRON BASTARDS, THE “RITUAL HUNTERS” covens destroying miasma pillars in the SARANGRAVE. And for the enchantment of TEN ARMIES in one summit the Warcaster commends: The COVEN of BARABBAS. A fuller list may be found on the Synod Notices.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (260-16)

===Judgement 66===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Khan i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' Great deeds are eternal, and pride teaches us to lift up our fellows. Lady Emberlyn Brontide of Dawn solo cast Piranhas Devour the Kraken on 40 Imperial Captains at the Autumn Equinox, bolstering our Navy with the strength of another entire Imperial Navy of summer magic. Let this master of summer magic forever be remembered for her loyalty to the Imperial people of the Bay of Catazar. We are in your debt.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (108-0)

===Judgement 67===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Kay i Orzezz i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' For the rebuilding of the Celesti Lighthouse of Oran, a symbol of Freeborn Pride, we the Freeborn Assembly seek to thank those who contributed, as we could not name them all on the Senate motion. Sadiq i Isa i Erigo. The Fleet Hubs of the Empire. Iago & Shivanna i Erigo. Esk i Erigo. Bakar i Riqueza. Argento i Erigo. Ghisli the Provider. Esteban i Del Rio Blanco i Guerra. Velasco i Guerra. Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza. Let their prosperity be recorded.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (106-24)

===Judgement 68===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Rafe
* '''Judgement:''' We welcome the bell bearers of Highguard into Wintermark. They each carry a bell hallowed by those of all nations. They seek to gather the stories of our heroes so they can be used to inspire all nations. We must all seek them out and share our stories. The heroes of Wintermark should be recognised as the shining example of virtue to all that they are to us.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (308-0)

===Judgement 74===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Maja Świętosława Przewałski
* '''Judgement:''' Years ago, a (now dead) Varushkan destroyed the Jotun meeting place at the request of their patron Agramant. It has now been built anew as a place of hospitality to further closing the Jotun front. Sulkavaris is satisfied and no longer angry with our nation. Now is the time for the peoples of the north to come together as per J67 Autumn 387. Let us work <u>together</u> to prepare for the war with the Thule.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (168-52)

===Judgement 77===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Melchior of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' While we recognise virtue, we must also face the unwelcome truths of the empire's role in actions past. Whilst we vote to declare Rahvin as an exemplar, extolling his virtue and the virtuous inspiration we believe he can teach others. We also wish to recognise the Empire as responsible for his death. In the heat of battle, a case of mistaken identity, Imperial citizens killed Rahvin and those he was with. We face this truth not only in the action that it occurred, but also recognise that it was the Empire's actions which drove Rahvin's followers into this situation and back into captivity under the Druj for years to come. Where we have failed before, the light of courage teaches us to see our mistakes and expose them to overcome them in future.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (226-0)

===Judgement 78===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Aldwyn the Glorious
* '''Judgement:''' The rebuilding of the Hall of the Soturi represents the start of a bold new story, no matter what is built there. When we rebuild it, let it be witnessed and remembered as a site of import. As the legacy of the new army grows, let this become a place of pilgrimage and a sinecure established there.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (140-70)
* '''Notes:''' The Hall of the Soturi would serve to allow an army raised in the Kallavesi tradition to become fearless. More information can be found in the '''[[Flight of birds]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 80===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Kasmira Milankova Ygrev
* '''Judgement:''' Two years ago, the Cold Sun came to Varushka. Volodmartz was left two options: Burn in the light of the Cold Sun or condemn Livardz to ruin. Our cousins made this sacrifice for the defence of all Varushka. Now, let us aid the people of Livards in their efforts to rise from ruin to prosperity.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (202-0)

===Judgement 82===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Yosephus Morningson
* '''Judgement:''' We are the Assembly of the Way. Our purpose is to bring new souls to knowledge of the whole Way, and lead them to full understanding. There are Seven Virtues that guide the spirit, Seven that lead to Great and Inspiring deeds. Yet there are Asaveans who know but one, others who know but six, while others claim a physical Labyrinth. This is our highest calling - to enlighten all souls, beginning with Asavea, that they may know the Seven Virtues, the Eight Doctrines, and the One True Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (62-84)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 91===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Task
* '''Judgement:''' The Empire has changed in the last hundred years more than could possibly be imagined. We have orc citizens now... And thus we should shape our laws to reflect that. The Prosperity assembly suggests that the religious crime of idolatry be amended to include orc citizens of the Empire. Correcting the wording as follows: Subsuming a sapients' will and destiny to any inhuman entity or force. This includes the worship, veneration or exaltation of any such being or power. Anything less than this in law is seen as an affront to the virtue of orcish citizens.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (308-0)

===Judgement 94===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' Building on this Assembly's recognition of the Exemplar Lady Elenor Novarion, we hold the growth and prospering of her legacy, the Proffered Hand Network of sanctuaries for refugees and freed slaves, to be the greatest present opportunity for spreading Pride across the Empire and beyond, and seek to make it this Assembly's focus for the coming year. We support the Network in completing its ambition to build a sanctuary in every nation, with only facilities in the Marches and the League remaining to be built. We encourage the Prideful to look further for new ways to support the Network in its mission to heal deep-cut scars of slavery, to offer compassion and an open hand to those in need, to uplift those who have suffered to future greatness. This is the highest calling of our assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (52-122)
* '''Notes:''' An Assembly's call to action requires a greater majority, as per the '''[[The highest calling]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 95===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Wulfric
* '''Judgement:''' I Wulfric, Ambition Priest, Marcher. With the support of both Assemblies and approval of the AO9. Call for a Symposium with the purpose of discussing proscriptions and ensuring we employ wisdom and vigilance in creating a Solid foundation to build and spread virtue on.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1226-170)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement was elevated by '''Lenarius Ankarien''', the [[Cardinal of Ambition]]

===Judgement 98===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Solas of the Spire of the Waxing Sun
* '''Judgement:''' Seers of the Spires! We call on your expertise. The crushing dread of the miasma in the Sarangrave inhibits virtuous action and impedes our aspirations in the territory. Use your arete to locate the pillars that anchor this miasma, and send this information to those most able to leverage it.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (250-10)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement follows on from the '''[[Everything is trying to kill us]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 100===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Tabris, Son of Armisael
* '''Judgement:''' Fintan Nighthaven's life has ended, and his spirit has returned to the Labyrinth. The delegation from Axos who wish to collect his body are welcome to do so. This in accordance with the Nighthaven family's wishes.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (76-58)

===Judgement 104===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Callista of the Dark Shard
* '''Judgement:''' We have given our assurances to the Urizen "rebels" of Spiral - who have <u>courageously</u> chosen to leave the Empire rather than cede their ancestral homes to the League - such as the Silver Flame - that we hold them to be Urizen. Invoking the Chalice that rejoins us, we encourage our <u>Wise</u> magicians with Imperial lore mastery to assist them with their research, as well as our <u>vigilant</u> priests to advise and aid them in their dealings with pernicious eternals.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (192-0)

===Judgement 106===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Gwendoloena de Sarroi
* '''Judgement:''' The Dawnish national assembly, now that the time is right, encourages Dawnish citizens to set forth and settle the regions of the Barrens that are not ceded to foreigners. With the important exception of the Bleaks as we are not settling to harass the Karass, we are settling to promote virtue for Dawn and Dawnish citizens.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (334-32)

===Judgement 111===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ignacio i Zuhri i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' Gisli the Provider stands accused of Blasphemy; in this matter he is not a criminal but a victim. This assembly celebrates his peerless contributions to the rebuilding of the Brass Coast. His virtue and Prosperity is unquestionable.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (94-0)

===Judgement 112===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Halkyon of the Myriad Stream
* '''Judgement:''' Children of the spires, the Lost haunt the dark places of <u>Spiral</u>. The malice of the Druj and Grendel lingers. In Courage and Vigilance let us raise our SWORDS AGAINST DARKNESS and make this part of the Sanctum of Stars a place for the virtuous to prosper.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (226-0)
* '''Notes:''' A call to action for Urizen to clear out the threats present in Spiral, as per the '''[[My_friends_are_my_estate#Swords_Against_Darkness|My friends are my estate]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 114===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Yrkja Riansson Sigeing
* '''Judgement:''' The vision that led us to Gull Isle showed ghodi and mystic fostering each other's children, Jotun and Imperial learning from each other as equals. This is not a place for preaching, and we do not intend to do so. Rather let us <u>display</u> virtue through our words and deeds in this place. And likewise witness how the inspiration of the ancestors is borne out in the acts of those we meet with.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (256-14)

===Judgement 117===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Eskah Swift Hart
* '''Judgement:''' Over the winter, all Navarri have heard the song "Painted", we reveal to you now that the writer and singer of "Painted" is Idwynn Splitroot, through ritual Idwynn sang "Painted" directly to Navarr & Thorn so they know we continue their great ambition to destroy the vallorn. Many have heard two voices singing back to Idwynn; they were Navarr & Thorn themselves. Know that we have heard their voices singing in unison with Idwynn & all our nation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (138-24)
* '''Notes:''' References the song spread across the Empire, as per the '''[[The_tune_without_the_words#An_Ode_To_Blood_And_Sacrifice|The tune without words]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 119===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Jesper Luukasson
* '''Judgement:''' At the Summer Solstice of 383YE, Rane Sherarding plead clemency for the members of Zepheniah's Lament, who had shattered the mirrors of Sarvos to free thousands of souls being kept from the labyrinth by Skathe, then raised funds towards their fine. Sharing in the burdens of the necessary deed earned her name Shardbearer. Since then she has borne not only the shards of Sarvos but the weight of duty to the Empire; serving as the Inquisitor of Pride and then as Senator Kallavesa. She has fiercely fought for Wintermark's interests and often asked of us the hard and necessary questions. Her voice will echo in eternity as the priest who consecrated our sacred marsh. Her wisdom has reached out across the Empire time and again in Senate, Synod and in the Imperial Address. We see the burdens you bear and we name you the pride of our nation. We name Rane Shardbearer to the Chronicle of Heroism.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (308-0)
* '''Notes:''' Rane Shardbearer has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]]

===Judgement 122===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Molly Mae of Mitwold
* '''Judgement:''' The walls of Meade must be built, the people of Mitwold have spilt their blood for their land and the Marches. Bree Shaw fought with courage, spilt her blood on Marcher soil and died fighting for her Loyalty to the Marches. The Marches must come together as neighbours to help defend Marcher land. Bree has always shown her pride in the Marches, as proud and loyal Marchers we owe it to her memory to build the walls, and call them Brees' Stand.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (154-0)

===Judgement 125===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Sister Juliette of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement:''' Our siblings in Varushka have called for Livardz to rise from the ashes. In <u>peerless kinship</u>, Highguard answers their call. In Loyalty, let all those who can be spared from their duties journey north to help erase the stain of the Cold Sun and support the pride and prosperity of Varushka, in accordance with judgement 80.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (474-22)

===Judgement 126===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Pete Tong
* '''Judgement:''' Imperial citizens themselves humour malign agents by consorting amongst them. Beware <u>the enemy within</u>. Experimentation does not justify reckless acts by mages which threaten the safety of the Empire. Do not fail to call into question those who knowingly endanger us by engaging with the Whisper Gallery or any other such entity. Hold them to account.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (172-32)

===Judgement 127===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Lenore Hearthweaver
* '''Judgement:''' Veikko Bondforger is a name known all across Anvil. It is known to be the name of a hero who has built up others and forged bonds of Loyalty that stretch across every nation of the Empire. They have inspired pilgrims of Loyalty across the Empire leading the Loyalty Assembly, and raised the funds to rebuild the Hall of Rund, restoring it to the Stormcrows of Wintermark. Veikko has delved into their own skein and learned wisdom from a past life and from a Krampus curse, then returned to share that wisdom with others, sparing no effort to bind the broken and forge them stronger. The very name of Bondforger is precious to us - Wintermark rose in fury when the memory of it was threatened. We therefore name Veikko Bondforger to the Chronicle of Heroism.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (304-0)
* '''Notes:''' Veikko Bondforger has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]]

===Judgement 130===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Dagonet de Gauvain
* '''Judgement:''' The Karass are foreigners, not barbarians. They are friends of the Empire, not enemies. To fight an enemy is to display virtue and win glory. To bully a friend displays the exact opposite. No true Dawnish folk will hurt, molest, or harass the Karass.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (206-20)

===Judgement 131===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Laudine duLac
* '''Judgement:''' We send the Silent Bell to the Bay of Catazar to investigate the Grendel spy networks in the area
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (150-34) Margin of 116
* '''Notes:''' This judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 132|Judgement 132]]. References an offer made by the Silent Bell in the '''[[Finding_is_the_final_act#How_Many_Fields?|Finding is the final act]]''' wind of fortune. The report of the Silent Bell will be delivered before the Summer Solstice 388YE.

===Judgement 132===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Adelorna Ordraig
* '''Judgement:''' We send the Silent Bell to the Barrens to investigate the Karass and their motivations, interactions and nature of collaboration with the Druj
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (122-16) Margin of 106
* '''Notes:''' This judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 132|Judgement 132]]

===Judgement 133===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Torin
* '''Judgement:''' Naming is our greatest tradition that leads us to Virtue. The Wintermark Assembly believe our new Kallavesi army should exemplify that. We support building a Hall of Names to both honour the Kallavesi fighting spirit, and chronicle the names and deeds of heroes both living and dead. Let this Hall encourage named warriors to show their Virtue, and show that there is no place for savagery or cruelty, that Wintermark fights with honour. To be named is to make our ancestors proud.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (310-10)
* '''Notes:''' More information on the Hall of Names can be found in the '''[[Flight of birds]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 134===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Jared of the Sentinels Tower
* '''Judgement:''' It is virtuous to send military forces to combat the heralds of any eternals with enmity. It is important we do not dilute our efforts. Look to the Vigilance Assembly for direction to the immediate threat.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (246-0)

===Judgement 135===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Illya Nikovitch Volkov
* '''Judgement:''' Citizens of Varushka, the Varushkan children at Anvil have been investigating the lack of bees in Karov. Honey Bee of the Sovereign's Head asked the coven 'Moonlight Finds the Mountain Pass' to petition Sung for aid in this endeavour. As a result of this investigation, the National Assembly of Varushka urges all Prosperous citizens to aid in re-flowering Karov. Plant flowers, send seeds. Make Karov bloom again.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (228-0)

===Judgement 136===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lepidina
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise and welcome the statement by the Navarr National Assembly (Judgement 71) and its highest calling to assist in defeating the vallorn. Urizen welcomes their aid and expertise.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (162-0)

===Judgement 139===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Larkin Otterways
* '''Judgement:''' The enemy are in our heartland. Just as we did in the Mourn, so shall we do in Upwold. Open your doors to Mitwold refugees, share the food from your table, and the labour with your neighbours. We encourage the people of Upwold to open your their doors to welcome Mitwold refugees. In Loyalty, we left others up.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (106-0)

===Judgement 140===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Echo of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' I, Echo of the House of the Wanderer, on behalf of the Urizen National Assembly wish to condemn Aspar of Urizen by promoting the False Virtue, PURITY, by offering to give clemency to Severus of the Blinding Sun, under a virtue not recognised by Imperial Law. This action sets not only a poor example, but encourage other priests to follow his foolish actions. WISDOM DEMANDS WE CHASTISE THE <U>FOOL</U>.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (74-82)

===Judgement 144===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' The Urizen National Assembly supports the efforts of the Gryphon's Pride in improving the Empire's relationship with the septs of the Sarangrave; the Bloodwater Spears, the Waterwalkers, and the free folk who have no sept. Let us uplift each other in Pride and prove the Empire are not the monsters they think we are.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (244-0)

===Judgement 147===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Amaro d'Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' Since parting ways with Varushka, Temeschwar has forged its own identity as the League's city of craft and commerce. The city is more than its rats. Temeschwari citizens deserve to celebrate their achievements. The National Assembly encourages them to demand Giselle's Tomb to become the Pride of Temeschwar.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (184-0)

===Judgement 151===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Bloodcrow Knott
* '''Judgement:''' The Unshackled National Assembly thanks the Illarawm for the opportunity to create the annals of ancestors. Let the first words carved into the side of the Ossuary be: "When faced with the choice between death or protecting what is worthy, we face no choice at all. For if we stand our ground, our ancestors will welcome us on the other side of the abyss". - Jannik of the Rahvin, slaughtered by the Gryphon's Pride, ancestor of Bloodcrow Knott. His words speak of facing a force determined to wipe out your culture. The Rahvin still live due to the ultimate sacrifice of their heroes.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (110-0)

===Judgement 156===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Skywise Gralka
* '''Judgement:''' I was afraid, I broke my ties to the general in the dark, cut marks that made me his from my skin, then fled into the Sarangrave swamp to escape, the mud was deep and stank of poison. I was alone, the banners painted Druj did not matter here. And then came the sound of Drums, I followed that sound. I did not want to be alone. I saw a light. In that light the shaman and preachers of the Summer Storm passionately spoke of worth and virtue and I wanted for what they had. The Imperial Orc National Assembly encourages the shaman and preachers of the second legion to guide the lost and those who have escaped the Druj.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (110-0)

===Judgement 157===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Bloodcrow Meep
* '''Judgement:''' The National Assembly extends its thanks to the Black Tillers for their careful cultivation of Hearkerner's Hope; and for the insight and intention that guides its creation. Alas, the yield of the Legion's Rookery has already been committed to a competing opportunity, and cannot be turned aside. Even so, we recognise the worth of this work and would still seek access to Hearkener's Hope. The Assembly therefore asks whether the Black Tillers might consider an alternative for example, allowing orc priests to purchase it through the exchange of liao. Let no good root go untended.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (110-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Black Tillers presented an offer to the Imperial Orcs to take ownership of the Legion's Rookery in the '''[[Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 159===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Enchantress Areloe Larmallevés
* '''Judgement:''' People of Dawn, our cousins in the Marches need our help: They need to raise their fifth army. However they can't due to their obligation to feed the Thule. Our senators and I ask us to help, this is not a permanent fixture. Once the breadbasket is expanded they have promised to take the obligation back. Let us help! Let us work with our cousins! Let us show what Dawn does for our Empire! Our National Assembly endorse feeding the Thule!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (420-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Replace_Food_to_Thule|motion]] raised by the Senator for Semmerholm and passed by the Senate that replaced the food sent to the Thule as part of the ongoing [[Ratify Thule Treaty Spring 387YE|Thule treaty]]

===Judgement 160===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Fredegar Bloodmouth
* '''Judgement:''' Courageous Marchers of the Gullet! The end is in sight for the plague of coral husks. The National Assembly calls for citizens along the Gullet's coast to collect samples of coral wisely and with vigilance. If this task is undertaken and an infection is present, seek the assistance of a shatter magician and qualified physick. Samples, alive or dead, should go to Houses Goatsbridge and Myrtle for further investigation. Noting the loyalty and pride of the bold marchers, the Assembly also warns special vigilance in this task. If it comes between Marcher lives or husks samples, choose life every time.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (168-0)

==Mandate==
===Judgement 9===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
* '''Judgement:''' Be alert to all dangers; within and without. We send Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament with 50 doses of liao to encourage our courageous soldiers to stand apart from these servants of eternals. Seek out falsehood and expose the truth.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (678-12)
* '''Enacted''' Highborn soldiers [[The_thing_with_feathers#In_the_Fields_of_Glory_(Eleonaris)|will deliberately keep their distance from any heralds]] sent to fight alongside them.

===Judgement 70===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Harwyn Eternal
* '''Judgement:''' The Terunael city of Hacynian has passed into history, ruined by the vallorn. We send Towlen Nighthaven with 25 liao to urge the folk of Hercynia. To swear an oath that neither they nor their descendants will seek to rebuild Hacynian. Accept its passing as a sacrifice for future free of the folly of Terunael.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (223-16)
* '''Enacted:''' Kaela will provide her support for the construction of [[Every_path_you_know#Beware_of_Dog|the Grim Pryamid]] in the Starless Vale.

===Judgement 71===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Teleri Thornweaver
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtuous raise up their fellows. Any nation willing to raise arms and join the Vallornguard shall have our full support. We send Brynn Tendfallen with 50 doses of liao to lead our people in sharing everything we have with Urizen to prepare to finish the fight.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (267-0)
* '''Enacted:''' Navarr from all walks of life [[Every_path_you_know#Thanks_for_Sharing|will travel to the named nation looking for ways to help]]. This will generate at least one opportunity for a new Imperial title to help the Vallornguard prepare for the fight with the enemy.

===Judgement 79===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Azir i Shartha i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' Beware the seduction of the false virtue of Anarchy! We send Azir i Shartha i Riqueza with 150 doses of liao to rally the people of the Brass Coast to turn away from those who would revel in false freedoms. Reject Anarchy, lest your virtue be lost! Let virtue reveal the deceiver!
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (42-96)

===Judgement 88===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Joran of Reikos
* '''Judgement:''' 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!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (552-0)
* '''Enacted:''' Highborn congregations can [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Expose_the_Truth|lecture to citizens to investigate Sarvos]].

===Judgement 107===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Viviane Barossa
* '''Judgement:''' 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!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (168-0)
* '''Enacted:''' League congregations can [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Expose_the_Truth|lecture to citizens to investigate Sarvos]].

===Judgement 109===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Veikko Bondforger
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to deploy the Eyes of Loyalty to embolden the following mandate: The Virtuous raise up their fellows. Any nation willing to raise arms and join the Vallornguard shall have our full support. We send Halkyon of the Myriad Stream with 25 liao to lead our people in sharing everything we have with Urizen to prepare to finish the fight
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (316-28)
* '''Enacted:''' The loyal will seek to assist with [[#Judgement 71|Judgement 71]]

===Judgement 116===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Creighton Blackewater
* '''Judgement:''' Pride in small things, Loyalty to great ones. We send Richard with 50 doses of liao to encourage Marcher citizens to settle the land. War is a thrice-ploughed field.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (144-0)
* '''Enacted:''' For one year, [[The_circle_game#Stirring_the_Pot|Marcher citizens can change a military unit, fleet, herb garden, mine or forest to a farm]] of the same resource level in the same territory without incurring a cost. Players wishing to take advantage of this opportunity should {{plot}}.

===Judgement 118===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Paulus Adelaar van Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Nothing great without cost. We send Frideswide Adelaar van Holberg with 50 doses of liao to encourage League citizens to invest in business. Coin counts and everything costs!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (230-0)
* '''Enacted:''' For one year, [[The_circle_game#Stirring_the_Pot|League citizens can change a military unit, fleet, herb garden, mine or forest to a business]] of the same resource level in the same territory without incurring a cost. Players wishing to take advantage of this opportunity should {{plot}}.

===Judgement 124===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Exarch Aemon of the Suns of Couros
* '''Judgement:''' The Sarcophan folk of Alivetti estates celebrate their enclave, but we must all remain vigilant to the threats it may represent. While they seem to be honest traders, their ways are not our ways, and their faith is very different to ours. Their refusal to acknowledge Imperial law is a challenge to the Empire. We send Exarch Aemon with 25 doses of liao to urge all virtuous citizens who must attend this gathering to keep their wits about them and remain alert for threats within and without.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (338-54)
* '''Enacted:''' Sends a message to the Alivetti estates that [[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Party_Planning|while that nation tolerates them, they do not welcome further engagement]].

===Judgement 158===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Skywise Rykana
* '''Judgement:''' Ambition is much more than lines on a map. We send Jim with 15 crowns to lead a delegation of mystics and shamans to discover more of the ancestors the Karass.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (110-0)
* '''Enacted:''' Jim will lead a group of willing orcs [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|in search of information and lore about the ancestors of the Karass]].

==Writ of Consecration==
Two [[writ of consecration|writs of consecration]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice

===Judgement 56===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Martin Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' 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).
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (334-20)

===Judgement 81===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Skáldsgrým Dunhearth
* '''Judgement:''' Following the recent destruction of the historic meeting stone where the Jotun and Empire could meet. We the Loyalty Assembly seek a 'writ of consecration' to dedicate part of the newly built feasting hall on Gull Island to Loyalty. We wish to recognise it's importance and protect from future harm as a place of both virtue and honour. Loyalty is not displayed by words or deeds alone, but the unity of both.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (534-0)

==Revocation==
One [[revocation]] was presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice

===Judgement 142===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Rosanna Vtrachenich
* '''Judgement:''' It is the unwise boyar who leaves none to tend the hearth. Sirka Parakgoosier Bashnya, Senator for Karsk, has abandoned their post and left no named proxy. It is your prerogative however there is no excuse in not providing a contingency. We in the Varushkan Assembly move for revocation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (174-0)

==Proscription==
Fifteen judgements of [[proscription]] were raised in the General Assembly during the Winter Solstice

===Judgement 4===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod proscribes the use of the ceremony of excommunication without authorisation by writ of the Synod as an abuse of powers.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1522-684)

===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod proscribes as blasphemy the act of dedicating any person to a false virtue or of creating an aura of a false virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (2301-370)

===Judgement 6===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' The desecration or destruction of any relics associated with a paragon or exemplar, or the destruction of any memorial associated with them, is proscribed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1744-290)

===Judgement 7===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' The General Assembly proscribes the Excessionist Heresy - the claim that too much of a Virtue can be as bad as too little.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1532-580)

===Judgement 8===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' The General Assembly proscribes the creation of statues in the likeness of any eternal. It is idolatry to commission a structure designed to honour an inhuman entity.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (1094-1254)

===Judgement 17===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Corey Wayfarer
* '''Judgement:''' The General Assembly proscribes the Yaelian Heresy - the belief in the Land Without Tears and in Yael as a rebirth of the First Empress. These have shown to be false.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1880-110)

===Judgement 24===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Vaclav Mladenovich Kosti
* '''Judgement:''' The Eternal Sadogua, the Brother of Wizards, has boasted of being the same entity known in the Iron Confederacy as Dumon, Father of Lies, a god within the Suranni pantheon. Nonetheless, he constantly seeks tribute, veneration, and adulation from the citizens of the Empire. The General Assembly proscribes the creation of statues, fanes, or edifices created in honour of Sadogua. It is idolatry to commission or to build such a thing.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (860-992)

===Judgement 97===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod proscribes the receiving of a False Virtue Anointing or a False Virtue Dedication as BLASPHEMY.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1252-536)

===Judgement 110===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Syene
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod proscribes the act of ceding land to those who are not sentient beings of this world, such as eternals or tulpas, as an act of idolatry. We make clear that it is the act of ceding itself that is idolatrous, and those who are responsible for such places are not de facto idolators.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (698-864)

===Judgement 128===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Felix Saltspire
* '''Judgement:''' Venerating an icon of an Eternal is Idolatry. Producing an Image of one is just Art. To make art exalts your pride. To venerate an eternal subsumes your will.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (496-244)

===Judgement 145===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod proscribes entering into the service of an eternal or tulpa, where the service subsumes the individual's free will. This is idolatry. This is different from bartering for limited boons in service to your virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1010-102)

===Judgement 152===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth
* '''Judgement:''' We proscribe as blasphemy the preaching or promotion of the false virtue of vengeance
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (804-46)

===Judgement 153===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' We proscribe as blasphemy the preaching or promotion of the false virtue of understanding
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (770-70)

===Judgement 154===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' We proscribe as blasphemy the preaching or promotion of the false virtue of hatred
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (842-46)

===Judgement 155===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Theodora
* '''Judgement:''' We proscribe as blasphemy the preaching or promotion of the false virtue of freedom
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (790-70)

==Inquisition==
Nine [[inquisition|inquisitions]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice

===Judgement 18===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Cato Hypation
* '''Judgement:''' I call <u>Severus of the Blinding Sun</u> to inquisition, at a time to be arranged at the convenience of the magistrates at this summit. Let him be provided with an opportunity to defend his creed under Imperial scrutiny, having failed to defend it under Sword Scholar tradition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (30-0)

===Judgement 29===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' I call Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer to inquisition Saturday 16:00 at the Wanderers camp. Concerning her courage involving the autumn realm, raising an army for her nation and other matters that come up.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (118-10)

===Judgement 30===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eirlys Ashes Blaze
* '''Judgement:''' Raising a Statement of revocation as the adjutant of the general you are targeting is an action worthy of Scrutiny. I call Harwyn Eternal to Inquisition, to tell me the loyalty in his action and answer to the treachery it appears to be. Woven roots camp Saturday 5:00pm in Navarr (right by Songs and Stories).
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (202-0)

===Judgement 48===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Arvel Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' I call Silas of the Cenotaph to inquisition at the Tendfallen camp in Navarr at 11am on the Saturday of this summit to discuss the virtue of his decision to canvas against a certain judgement last summit.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (30-16)

===Judgement 57===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' Magistrate Sayid i Zurhi i Erigo. I call you to inquisition on the matter of a spontaneous aura upon your soul and its unclear virtuous nature. We will test what virtuous guidance it offers you. 14:00. The hub annex.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (248-0)

===Judgement 85===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Nim of Ebon's Hall
* '''Judgement:''' Iniska Ashwood, I am interested in testing whether you have been wise during your time as Inquisitor. I fear you take the words of fools too seriously. Saturday 14:00-:1500. Woven Roots.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (332-10)

===Judgement 96===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Brynmor Rootround
* '''Judgement:''' I call Neve Dreadshield, of the Quiet Step to inquisition. This winter Neve has sacrificed all her oaths to save the people. As Navarr, our tattoos make us one nation. Let her speak if her Loyalties lie with Navarr or her actions lead to her being foresworn. Drunken Goose meeting room 5:00pm Navarr
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (233-0)

===Judgement 101===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Donato of the Crucible
* '''Judgement:''' I call Cosme i Guerra, magistrate, to discuss: their role in cursing Veikko Bondforger; the virtue in this action; how this was not acting in the spirit of <u>retribution</u>. Wanderer's camp, Urizen, Sat 5pm
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (120-0)

===Judgement 150===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' I call to Inquisition Mendicant Garev of Highguard to investigate his claims of Prosperity while refusing to pay those who saved his life. This will occur at the spring summit when he is available (there will be cake)
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (334-20)

===Writs of Inquisition===
The following writs of inquisition were issued this summit:
{|
| '''Called by''' || '''Subject''' || '''Judgement or Title''' || '''Matter'''
|-
| Cato Hypation || [[To_fight_aloud#Fallen_Hero|Severus of the Blinding Sun]] || [[#Judgement 18|Judgement 18]] || His [[The_deepest_cut#Interred_With_Their_Bones|creed]]
|-
| Maarit Suvidottir || Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer || [[#Judgement 29|Judgement 29]] || Her [[Courage]] involving the [[Realm#Autumn|Autumn realm]] and raising an army
|-
| Eirlys Ashes Blaze || Harwyn Eternal || [[#Judgement 30|Judgement 30]] || Calling for the revocation of his [[general]] as [[General#Appoint an Adjutant|adjutant]]
|-
| Arvel Tendfallen || Silas of the Cenotaph || [[#Judgement 48 |Judgement 48]] || Canvassing against a [[Judgement]] at the previous summit
|-
| Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost || [[Civil_Service#Imperial_Magistracy|Magistrate]] Sayid i Zurhi i Erigo || [[#Judgement 57|Judgement 57]] || A spontaneous aura
|-
| Nim of Ebon's Hall || Iniska Ashwood || [[#Judgement 85|Judgement 85]] || Their [[Wisdom]] as [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor]]
|-
| Brynmor Rootround || Neve Dreadshield || [[#Judgement 96|Judgement 96]] || Sacrificing her oaths
|-
| Donato of the Crucible || [[Civil_Service#Imperial_Magistracy|Chief Magistrate]] Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra || [[#Judgement 101|Judgement 101]] || Cursing Veikko Bondforger
|-
| Iniska Ashwood || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Mendicant Garev]] || [[#Judgement 150|Judgement 150]] || Refusing to pay those who saved his life, at the Spring summit
|-
| Galene Netherwatch || Mirella of the Twisted Rose || [[Arcane Inquisitor]] || Her work as [[Archmage of Summer]], especially with regards to [[Knights of Glory]]
|-
| Vauraus "Prosperity's Forge" Korppitkotka || Natalia "The Falcon" Barossa || [[Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] || Their work as [[Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]]
|-
| Alfred Eawolfson || Tristan Ramson von Holberg || [[Basilisk of the Bourse]] || Virtue and Economics, at the Spring summit
|-
| Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost || Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose || [[Imperial Inquisitor]] || Their dealings with [[Irra Harah]]
|-
| Maarit Suvidottir || (the Face of) the Earl of Fools || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] || Taking [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]]
|-
| Eevi of the Gadrai || Bloodcrow Rasp || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] || Bonds built across the Empire
|-
| Iniska Ashwood || [[Emperor Vesna|Emperor Vesna Borkovna Prochnost]] || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperty]] || Their [[Prosperity]]
|-
| Jedediah Boon || Brother Geoffrey Orchard || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] || Words and acts of questionable virtue
|-
| Brother Geoffrey Orchard || Ibiss Briarheart || [[Virtue Inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] || [[Realm#Spring|Spring]], its perils & lessons, at the Spring summit
|-
|}

==Sanction==
Twenty-five [[sanction|sanctions]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Jedidiah Boon
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Sabella of the Silent Tide; Only a person’s own actions may be judged under an Inquisitor’s gaze, and each action you have taken has been guided by Virtue. The Proud embrace their past acts and strive to repeat - or learn from - them going forward. You did not earn the steadfast Loyalty of your Chapter for nothing; your trust in them to conduct themselves with Virtue is testament to that Loyalty returned. You have shown unfaltering Pride in taking the path you deem Virtuous and continuing to walk it. Your Chapter walks with you. The shared desire expressed to let sleeping dogs lie has been accepted Virtuously. Inquisition is our sacred tool for raising the sword when required, just as it is one for putting down the sword where needed - let this Vindication acknowledge the Pride in your actions and bring conclusion to previous division.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (126-34)

===Judgement 15===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Jedidiah Boon
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Myshki Marishka Letuchaya, Little Boyar of Levski, Senator for Miekarova, Leader of the Vale’s Heart, lighter of the lamp in the dark. Your visage is etched in stone, your hand now and always fortifying Delev. The Little Boyar’s Welcome stands; your Legacy stands with it. It is clear as a cloudless day that you have carved out your Benevolence in defiance of the Cold Sun, building refuge for those displaced by its hatred. Stories follow you from Anvil; how you have raised castle walls, been the architect of armies. What Inspiration this will become will be for your friends and followers to witness. Pride uplifts. Inquisition tests. The Signs of the Exemplar have ignited themselves in your actions. Surely as you pursue Virtue closer to home, your future deeds will be watched closer still.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (160-0)

===Judgement 31===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Escalating J231, Summer 387. I inquisited Viviane Barossa about the courage of her past year of challenges to fulfil a vow to carry a hallowing. I however failed because it became incredibly clear throughout this inquisition that what motivates the soul and body of Viviane is the burning flame of Ambition. Excessionism is a heresy and one that she does not follow, she committed to this challenge with her whole self. Her ambition in this act is the salvation of Axos and bringing them to the Way and out of their misunderstanding of the world. Her route is reaching out to them so they can see we can be worked with before encouraging them to come to us, to learn from our schools of thought in exchange knowing that this will help expose the failings in their philosophy and use of these dangerous auras. While intellectually she understood this aura she told me she was still not prepared enough for the way it pushed her to freeze up, to fawn to threats, to want to give everything over and just perform what the other person wanted. She condemns this aura as unvirtuous and has and I’m sure will again speak at length against its use. She seemed justifiably angry that she has had to spend a year wasting political capital and time being inquisited, doing penance, being threatened and assaulted, and having to avoid helping reform doctrine but I think felt it worthwhile to build this bridge with Axos.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (166-10)

===Judgement 32===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Escalating Judgement 226 Summer 387 - I clear Genoveva and Rafael Barossa d’Apulian of any nonsense about running a “dark crusade” sacrificing virtue of innocents. If debate and discussion be the food of priests I have eaten well in this inquisition. These are courageous citizens of the Empire who are dedicating themselves to both the material and spiritual conditions of human souls both inside and outside of our borders and facing the challenges and problems we are in with courage, without pretending such obstacles do not exist. While they appear to disagree on Asavea they are both devoted to liberation and protection of souls and spreading The Way, and work towards such things even occasionally at the expense of personal relationships. These views may also stem from their cooperation enabling the Night Fane to Sung in Spiral going through Senate, they however have clear views on the dangers of this and how it is being overseen to understand the role that Fanes may play in the future of the Empire and wish us to understand them. They’re both magicians with above board dealings with a handful of Eternals. If you wish to understand their virtue talk to them.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (236-10)

===Judgement 34===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Escalating J189 Autumn 387 - I accuse Bloodcrow Knott of Heresy for willfully rejecting and perverting orthodox doctrines of both Enlightenment and The Ancestors. I do not seek his death, he is clearly a courageous Orc who cares for the souls of others in his nation, but I feel he has erred and should re-read the constitution which tasks Synod priests to "ensure virtuous behaviour", engage with the Virtue Assemblies, and reconsider his preaching in line with doctrine and the virtues. Knott admitted he has told many Orc citizens "You do not need virtue". He said he would never tell an Orc to abandon virtue if it was for them, those "not sure of virtue" he would not always help them learn about the virtues, or see virtuous behaviour of their ancestors, or see the virtues demonstrated by those around them, instead emphasising only the legends and ancestors he knows of. Enlightenment states the "practice of Virtue" will help both Orcs and Humans "develop the strength, knowledge, and enlightenment" toward their spirits "highest destiny" and he is obstructing and denying the laity's enlightenment and ability to achieve their highest destiny. The Ancestors because he is denying that "embracing the Seven Virtues leads an orc to the Great and Inspiring deeds that make an Ancestor" and thereby rejecting the doctrines clear encouragement that this helps make "Virtuous Ancestors [who] can guide future generations on the Way". While "there may be other ways to cross" he is obstructing the laity becoming virtuous ancestors as guided by doctrine. I hope his ambitions help bring more Orcs into Orthodox Virtue in time.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (174-0)

===Judgement 37===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I vindicate Sakari, Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield for raising a Declaration to uninterdict Rivers Run Red. His Ambition to achieve his goals through any means is clear. Just because you disagree with a person’s actions does not mean they are unvirtuous.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (742-96)

===Judgement 39===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Escalating from Judgement 39 of Autumn 387: LUCA I TAZIEL I RIQUEZA, CARDINAL OF PROSPERITY, offered a clear description of the circumstances around Aunty Hem’s Dedication to Anarchy, her subsequent Inquisition, and the fact that he was aware of her status for a full season before undertaking any action. This was a failing of Vigilance, and in so failing the Cardinal missed an opportunity to pull Aunty Hem back from the brink. I have proposed - and the Cardinal has agreed - that the right Penance is for the Cardinal to SPEND A YEAR UNDER ANOINTINGS OF VIGILANCE. This will allow Luca to better know this Virtue, without interfering with the Cardinal’s duties to Prosperity. In Escalating I ask the Synod to ENDORSE this course of action and to SUPPORT Luca in knowing Prosperity better. Full Inquisition reports available from me and from the citizen noticeboard. (ON OPPOSITE WALL.)
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1128-54)

===Judgement 41===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Lars Makarov
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' I Lars Makarov present my findings of following the inquisition in Autumn 387. My aim was to examine if the 5 named members of the Guard, who had taken Dark Wine and were seen to bite fallen Jotun in battle during Spring and Summer, were using it as a cover for worship of Blood in the Snow. Conclusion - None of those named in Autumn 387 serve Agramant, but by following Virtue you will all stand better prepared for the trails to come. Judgement has been provided to Molli to bear the weight of a either the Hallowing of Permion or of Isaella’s Resolve for a year and for Slark to carry a Hallowing of the Questor, to remind you of the importance of asking questions. To help continue to live with virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (150-0)

===Judgement 45===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Lepidina, Chaplain Consular. I find your actions and virtue beyond reproach on the matter of Fintan Nighthaven. I look forward to watching the progression of your career.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (862-52)

===Judgement 46===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Aster Acae. You served as Chaplain Consular during the most critical juncture of Fintan Nighthaven’s tenure as Ambassador to Axos and found yourself ill-equipped for the necessities of the position. There is little point in wondering what could have been avoided had you acted. You did not. But you have done something few are capable of - you own your mistakes and learn from them. These lessons have cost much. Do not squander them.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (812-72)

===Judgement 62===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Kaspar Yakovitch von Holberg
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Teodore Dusesna of the Camorra Dusesna, you have been inquisited regarding your accusations of idolatry against Genoveva Barossa d’Apulian, Sofonisba Amilcara, Cesare di Tassato and Raphael Barossa d’Apulian and have been found wanting. You admitted you knew your accusations had no basis in fact or as anything other than unfounded gossip yet you repeated them as factual truth. The Virtuous do not tear down others nor demean them, yet you spent your time in baseless accusations. Your penance is to spend the next three months speaking with those you spread your accusations to, advising them of the lack of substance and apologising for misleading them. Following this you will attend Anvil to make a public apology to those you wronged, at the League Assembly meeting 7pm Friday of the Spring Solstice.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (304-0)

===Judgement 63===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Elagabala
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' The Loyal serve without concern for reward, ignore qualms of actions they take for their loyalty, defend that which they care about, and protect those they love from harm regardless of any cost. Knight-Captain Alethia Wooder was not only willing to pay that cost, but did. I find no fault in their Virtue when treating with Agramant. It was impeccable. Her heart was guided by the true Loyalty of her soul, in accordance with all appropriate teachings and auras thereof. As she continues her journey on the path, she should remember that whilst the Loyal are ready to pay this cost, she should be conscious it never strays to acting as the Peaceful Martyr, willing to suffer to alleviate the suffering of others, as this, as she knows, is a malign spiritual intent.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (888-58)

===Judgement 73===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I called General Jean d'Apulian to inquisition as my first act as Inquisitor of Prosperity, as asked by members of House de Gauvain. Jean was open and honest about what happened to the permanent enchantment of Bound by Common Cause on the Wolves of War. His Loyalty shone through his words and actions. His Prosperity is also unquestionable; when the enchantment changed, the Empire would have had to pay to remove it. Jean was able to engineer another option, that saw the army able to resupply and stand stronger for the Empire. I would, however, prevail upon his virtue and ask that he find a way to remember Maurice de Gauvain to the League and the Empire
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (182-20)

===Judgement 75===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Lugh Llaw Whisperleaf, I am not sure what I expected when I called you to Inquisition. Please thank your friends again for the song. I cannot call into question your virtue, your Prosperity, Loyalty, or Pride. You took heretical icons out of the grasping hands of would-be cultists, ensuring you did not impoverish those who found them, and show your work with Pride. Your decision to Hallow them to True Virtues and share them with fellow Magpies who prove themselves Virtuous and worthy is a good one. I look forwards to hearing from whoever investigates the Vallorn flowers you wear on your hat.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (197-10)

===Judgement 76===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Cadenza i Fontanilla i Riqueza, Nation's Hearth, I called you to Inquisition to investigate your Prosperity and I have not been left wanting. You work hard at the Spilled Tea each day, and do not rest on your laurels with the money you make. You give so much to your Nation, to your Empire, and you deserve recognition. So many see Prosperity as the act of making money, but you make sure it keeps moving, going where it needs to go. You remind people what a single soul can do when it chooses to. You walk the path of Prosperity well, and I seek to learn your example.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (207-0)

===Judgement 84===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Nim of Ebon's Hall
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Gisli, you told me that beneath a shroud of your own creation lay one of the true Virtues of the Way - but I found only Anarchy. For this, we condemn you for Blasphemy. The Institutions of the Casinean Empire will do well without your malign influence
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (256-32)

===Judgement 102===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Emperor Vesna, you asked me to inquisit you to judge and recognise your Prosperity, and I am honoured that you did. Your work in Ossium gave freed slaves the opportunities to become Prosperous citizens, and you have continued this on the grandest scale across and beyond the Empire. Your foresight into the only path to take to bring the Way to the world is inspiring, and as a Navarri, your willingness to make the hard choices resonates. There is only one thing I disagree with you on - you <u>are</u> loved by your Empire. To remind you of this, the Prosperity Assembly wish to Testimony you as "Beloved" with the strength of 7 priests.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (171-30)

===Judgement 108===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pete Tong
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Juniper du Froste, Merchant of the Fangs, in your inquisition you showed me and my co-council of your virtue. Not only are you ambitious, wise, and Prosperous - your intentions and competency are clear - but your loyalty to the Empire's duty to the Rahvin and your commitment to them is commendable. Maybe one day more bourse seat holders may be like you, and we might live in a better world.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (734-20)

===Judgement 113===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' T i Dahr i Riqueza
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Gisli (Judgement 84 Wisdom) is not guilty of Blasphemy because it is not yet a crime. We condemn people for the crimes we have written down - and in fact he was wise in his efforts to remove the effects of his experiments with the aura "to trust his own judgement." Gisli is wise, knows the law, knows magic, and makes very good business decisions. He is an asset to the Empire, and it would be wise to see the fault of his actions, which were not illegal as dedication itself is not blasphemy. Fintan Nighthaven's poison must be cleared from the Empire, but not by killing all those he poisoned.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (266-924)
* '''Notes:''' Scrutiny was extended on this judgement by '''Silas of the Cenotaph''', the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]]

===Judgement 137===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvvidottir
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I inquisited Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer (J29) and found her courage evident. She has a strong theology and practical virtue is important to her. She is fully aware of what she needs courage to face and what challenges are within her capabilities more easily. She faces things clearly and knows when to press forward and when to try new approaches and I feel she will continue to work on her soul, improve this empire and inspire others to act for a long time.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (120-0)

===Judgement 138===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvvidottir
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I inquisited Ida the River today at 15:00 about courage. She spoke well of her virtue and the challenges she faces in life, the ways she faces dangers and failures. Others of the hospital spoke well of her, Tiberius described her as his rock, the most steadfast mother and north star Kellen of Kingstoke attributed Ida's courage with her continuing at the hospital. Ambrove di Sarvos talked of Ida pushing them forwards to establish connections. Emileo di Sarvos talked of her not hesitating. Isolde said she gives others courage, not aiming to inspire just doing a ripple of virtue from her actions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (130-00)

===Judgement 143===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eirlys Ashes Blaze
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Harwyn Eternal described his loyalty and conviction in seeing Navarr best represented in military council. I think that this conviction is a testament to his loyalty to Navarr. However, his actions have not build up the people and team that forms the Navarr contingent of the military council. I call Harwyn to tell me in a years time of the actions that he takes from today to act with his virtue to aid this team and the goals of the military council team, in the interest of elevating his words with actions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (66-0)

===Judgement 146===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Following the inquisition of Dagon Barossa it was clear that whilst his intention was virtuous, his decision to give away the shield intended for the Champion of Loyalty lacked loyalty. It tore down his fellows and his words and deeds not united. I task Dagon to suffer the curse Bitter Mantle of the Leaden Crown next season. Even the strongest may err, the truly great learn from what scars them
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (208-0)

===Judgement 148===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Brynmor Rootround
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Neve, over the long dark, lost all her oaths in sacrifice to the Empire. SHE decided the price was of worth against the Duvanku. Without her, all of Sarangrave would have been plunged into the depths of a winter curse upon the lands. She took this great sacrifice in loyalty to the Dreadshields, to Navarr, and to the Empire, with Pride and great Courage. May she be Branded to honour her actions, knowing they will be remembered and respected, and testimony her with "Oathsworn Renewed"
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (142-0)

===Judgement 149===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvvidottir
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I inquisited the Earl of Fools, along with several others. He was pleasant if nervous and demonstrated a clear growth of virtue and courage to acknowledge his actions. I wish him well in future endeavours and look forward to his benevolence in his virtue and in the future
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (84-0)

==Recognition==
Two judgements of [[recognition]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice

===Judgement 72===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Luca i Taziel i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' To recognise Zemress i Ezamara i Erigo as a Paragon of Prosperity. Her Exemplardom is known. There is no question of Benevolence, Inspiration, Pilgrimage, Salvation and Legacy. There never has been. No voices have spoken out against her Liberation. No Past Life Visions to be seen, and no ashes yet found. For Miracles we need only look. Look to the past. The Kraken's Bane returning to post. She was thought lost in the bay with her captain. But there She came. Un-crewed. Bound for home. Look to the present. The Captain's Touch, a treasure trove of True Auras tied to Zemress. Hallows a-plenty, easy to find by simply asking an enthusiastic Zemress at Anvil. The Sumaah already recognise our captain. In times of uncertainty, let us look to stories we know are true; a Paragon that already teaches the Known World what a Prosperity looks like
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (223-30)

===Judgement 83===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Masha Sigeling
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise Rahvin as an Exemplar of Courage and the first Ancestor Exemplar. <u>Inspiration</u> Fighting against the Druj, surrounded on all fronts, he inspired his people and thousands of others to fight to the bitter end, courageously standing for what they believed in, time and again. <u>Benevolence</u> Rahvin suffered greatly in the fight for the freedom of the Barrens, committing his life to bring about a better future for his people. <u>Liberation</u> Many individuals close to Rahvin report hearing his voice as an Ancestor, proof that, from his courageous actions he has crossed the Howling Abyss. <u>Legacy</u> Though the Rahvin (people) were thought destroyed by the Druj, they lived on, and fight now in his name to drive the Druj east into the sea. <u>Salvation</u> Rahvin was the driving force behind the uprising against the Druj in the Barrens, sending them to the howling abyss and ultimately leading to his followers working with the Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (238-10)

==Appointment==
Twenty one [[appointment|appointments]] were raised by the [[Tribune of the Synod]] during the Winter Solstice

===Judgement 1===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Prosperity]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Heilyn Bronwen’s Rest''' was appointed with 126 votes; Gorwen received 20 votes; Mabel received 20 votes; Syene received 12 votes

===Judgement 2===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of the Way]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Volya Nebov''' was appointed with 78 votes; Yosephus Morningson received 42 votes; Kosta-Konstanin Rabovich Bolotnikov received 30 votes; Tabris, Son or Armisael received 22 votes; Brynn Tendfallen received 10 votes

===Judgement 3===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean Library]] dose of [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Caleb of the Cenotaph''' was selected with 426 votes; Kaspar Yakovitch von Holberg received 170 votes; Aspar received 150 votes; Gaelen Embercast received 146 votes; Claudia Varkulova Remislav received 132 votes; Mirella of the Twisted Rose received 106 votes; Starac Sijed Orzel received 74 votes; Mel of the Mourn received 44 votes; Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament received 42 votes; Tom Appleseed received 30 votes

===Judgement 10===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Loyalty]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Talos of the Silent Tide''' was appointed with 206 votes; Skaldsgrym Dunhearth received 40 votes; Haungar Oakenlegs received 38 votes; Shibboleth Tzipporah received 36 votes

===Judgement 23===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Donato of the Crucible''' was appointed with 98 votes

===Judgement 28===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Hand to the Dance]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Farren Silver Streams''' was appointed with 90 votes; Emrys Barbbearer Edgestalker received 41 votes; Brynn Tendfallen received 28 votes

===Judgement 33===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Barbs]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Eirlys Ashes Blaze''' was appointed with 187 votes

===Judgement 43===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nicodemus of Balthazar’s Vineyard''' was appointed with 404 votes

===Judgement 49===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Curator of the Printers' Guild Museum]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Fabio Costas d’Apulian''' was appointed with 106 votes

===Judgement 50===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Ambition]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ser Purslane Artorigus''' was appointed with 116 votes; Lord Roland de Lagriffe received 86 votes; Earl Cerys de Rosier received 70 votes

===Judgement 51===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Pride]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Katchiana Razorradze''' was appointed with 80 votes; Vespasian received 48 votes; Kali Keen-Eye received 34 votes

===Judgement 59===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Lantern Wolf]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nadia von Holberg''' was appointed with 176 votes; Katarina Palantini received 60 votes; Savi Avocatt received 34 votes

===Judgement 60===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Keeper of the Orchard]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Basil Goodbeard''' was appointed with 150 votes

===Judgement 61===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Keeper of Oaths]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Veikko Bondforger''' was appointed with 398 votes

===Judgement 64===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Masha Sigeling''' was appointed with 110 votes; Ada of House Meliora received 32 votes

===Judgement 65===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Miroslav Temnavoda''' was appointed with 142 votes

===Judgement 69===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[High Exorcist]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Belial de Courtenay-Wyldrose''' was appointed with 6 votes. Solas of the Spire of the Waxing Sun received 1 vote

===Judgement 86===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nim of Ebons Hall''' was appointed with 132 votes. Gwen Tendfallen received 22 votes

===Judgement 89===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Basilisk of the Bourse]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Alfred Aewulfson''' was appointed with 7 votes

===Judgement 93===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Hand of Guerra]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' was appointed with 74 votes

===Judgement 65===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Vigilance]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Bryce the Hare''' was appointed with 94 votes

==Rewarding==
Fourteen judgements of [[rewarding]] were presented to the General Assembly during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 10===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Valentin Ivarovich Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' The Inspirational Tomb of Ozren de Orzel has been chosen and will include an Academy of the Arts and Apartments for the High Bard of the Empire! At the formal consecration with True Liao the Culwich Witches of Weirwater have promised gifts and recognition to the Eighty-One (81) named musicians and poets chosen by the High Bard in early 386. Nearly half the funding for this Virtuous endeavour is secured. The True Liao is held in preparation. We are almost there! I request the General Assembly’s support in a Rewarding from the Virtue fund of 40 Thrones to complete the purchase of white granite to build the Bardic Academy of the Exemplar Ozren to support the ongoing work of the High Bards of the Empire and secure the Proud legacy of the 81 named performers celebrating Imperial Virtue and wonderous deeds!
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (470-662)

===Judgement 12===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ioan Longshadow
* '''Judgement:''' Since the death of Empress Britta, the Anvil Hospital has stood as a beacon of Quiet Courage and Virtue. It has not been sustained by the Empire’s coffers, but by the Prosperity of private citizens and the relentless goodwill of volunteers. These individuals face the brutal aftermath of battle, keep soldiers in the fight, and tend to those who support them on and off the battlefield. Their Courage is not loud - but it is unyielding. And it has been overlooked for far too long. I seek the aid of the General Assembly for this Virtuous cause and request a rewarding from the Virtue Fund of 10 thrones for the purchase of herbs, mana, liao, and other essential resources in support of the Hospital - and by extension, the Empire. Let us honour the Quiet Courage of those who give their time, effort, and resources to the Hospital. Courage does not only charge - it heals, it endures, and it refuses to break.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (1242-106)

===Judgement 26===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ser Lorell Copiste
* '''Judgement:''' It is no secret that with Dawn’s deficiency in wealth, the nation struggles to build anything of use. So that this issue may be solved, Lord Morgann de Vere, ever prideful of his homeland, ambitiously seeks 8 wains of Weirwood from the Virtue Fund, to help in constructing a great work that benefits not only Weirwater, but the nation of Dawn entire. Let Lord Morgann be rewarded, and your prosperity shall greatly aid the Dawnish people.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (300-808)

===Judgement 52===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Serrusto Caeli Rezia di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' I seek to reward VITTORE van TEMESCHWAR The sum of TWENTY-TWO THRONES From the virtue fund for having prosperously created multiple items of office and regalia for Imperial titles and to assist in his further works in this endeavour
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (382-628)

===Judgement 55===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Erasmo di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' We reward Bledri Eternal with fifteen thrones. Bledri has spent more than 40 thrones of his own funds on codifying two rituals. Stars Mantle has already been added to Imperial Lore. Revelations of the Past, which shares a vision of an item’s past beyond the ritualist’s coven, will be added to Imperial Lore shortly after being loaned to the Academy for a period. This kind of generous prosperity should be encouraged and rewarded.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (400-582)

===Judgement 58===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Laurencio di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' Over 150 Imperial Fleet Captains forwent personal prosperity to support the Unguerdoned Red Wind Corsairs in destroying the pirate-cultist navy of the Children of Wrecks effectively closing a front. We reward them with 40 Thrones to be shared between them.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (620-424)

===Judgement 87===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Anatolij Paukov Zorkin
* '''Judgement:''' I am seeking 6 wains of white granite to create a monument to the Silent Bell sodality to reward their tireless work Vigilantly and Courageously defending this Empire and furthering our knowledge of the Way. I have the Senate announcement, I have the labour costs, all I need is the white granite
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, partial (three white granite) (528-334)

===Judgement 90===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Oleander Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Geraint Bronwen's Rest with 16 weirwood to be put towards the City of Dreams. This is an investment in to the future of Navarr and will allow us to seek new ways to use liao
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (434-389)

===Judgement 99===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lia Adelaar
* '''Judgement:''' The Kleists of Holberg have, through their ingenuity and tireless effort, succeeded in raising the walls of Holberg to be the greatest fortification in the known world. Funds for this great work (500T) come from the Kleists' efforts co-ordinating the prosperity of our citizens and from their own pockets. We ask for a rewarding of 8 white granite in recognition of their great Ambition and Prosperity, and to support future projects including the Imperatrix docks.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, but none remain (408-380)

===Judgement 103===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Cyrus of Athaliah's Handiwork
* '''Judgement:''' We award Naomi of Felix's Watch, 5 wains of white granite towards the restoration of Berechiah's Basilica in Bastion, which is in a dangerous state of disrepair, and is a threat to the life and limb of pilgrims. It was consecrated with true liao in 385YE and has provided only a fraction of the benefit it might have. Now, when we need Berechiah's inspiration to fight foreign espionage rings is the perfect time to complete the work and create a new title to be appointed by the Vigilance Assembly
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (672-214)

===Judgement 115===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Catena
* '''Judgement:''' To bring the Way to the hermit kingdom of Tsark, we must <u>talk</u> to them. An opportunity to build that bridge has arisen in the form of the Garden of the Perfect World - this will allow us to trade weirwood to them for white granite and improve the Prosperity of us both. This door was opened by Abel the Rounder, and I ask that this Assembly provide him 8 wains of weirwood in order that it may be built as soon as possible.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, but none remain (188-154)

===Judgement 120===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Emrys Fleurir
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Ser Raine Fisher with 16 Weirwood for their efforts in rousing Dawnish fleets to aid the Red Wind Corsairs, so that they may fund Ambitious projects to increase the Empire's naval strength.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (178-248)

===Judgement 121===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Xandor Trodbroker
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Eleri Bronwen's Rest with 6 wains of mithril to be put towards the army currently mustering in Hercynia. The army will be put to use defending the Empire's borders to help safeguard the spiritual centre of the Way
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld, full amount (261-106)

===Judgement 123===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Neala Blackhawk
* '''Judgement:''' We reward Halwyn Splitroot for achieving the great ambition of rebuilding and consecrating First Voice Glade and School inspiring pride and increasing prosperity within the Empire. We grant him 16 weirwood as reward for this great work and in the knowledge that this will support his efforts to further improve the Glade and School to benefit the prosperity and herbal knowledge of the Vallornguard
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (144-146)

==Special Considerations==
The following considerations should be borne in mind when bringing judgements before the Imperial Synod during the Winter Solstice.
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Assembly'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Consideration'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Duration'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Statements that prioritise the greater good over personal loyalties are less effective.</td><td>[[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Statements that try to compel Loyalty will fail.</td><td>[[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Revocations and Excommunications for disloyalty to the nation or Empire risk causing dissent.</td><td>[[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Any mandate that does not pass with a greater majority will have limited or no effect on Urizen or Varushka. It is not impossible that a mandate might lead to a response in one of the two nations, but it won't lead to any immediate consequences for the people of the nation. </td><td>[[Hard_and_suspecting#The_Urizen_Assembly|Urizen Link]]<br>[[Hard_and_suspecting#The_Varushkan_Assembly|Varushka Link]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Any mandate that does not pass with a greater majority will have limited or no effect on Wintermark unless enacted by the Wintermark Assembly. It is not impossible that a mandate might lead to a response in the nation, but it won't lead to any immediate consequences for the people of the nation. </td><td>[[The_final_cut#Questions_for_Wintermark|The final cut]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>All Assemblies</td><td>Statements that stress the need to follow Imperial law rather than virtue will be unlikely to lead to a mandate.</td><td>[[Knocking_on_every_door#A_Paper_Shield|Knocking on every door]]</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>League Assembly</td><td>No statement of principle raised by the League Assembly that calls on citizens to support a different cause will have an effect.</td><td>[[The war of thorns and flowers#The League|The war of thorns and flowers]]</td><td>Until Winter 387YE</td>
<tr><td>Varushkan Assembly</td><td>No statement of principle raised by the Varushkan Assembly that calls on citizens to support a different cause will have an effect.</td><td>[[The war of thorns and flowers#Varushka|The war of thorns and flowers]]</td><td>Until Winter 387YE</td>
</table>

==The Virtue Fund==
At the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE summit, the Virtue Fund stood as follows:
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Money'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mithril'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''White Granite'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''True Liao'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>88 thrones, 15 rings</td><td>6 wains</td><td>8 wains</td><td>16 wains</td><td>1 dose</td>
</table>

Total donations made were:
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Money'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mithril'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''White Granite'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''True Liao'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>65 thrones, 7 crowns, 16 rings</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td>
</table>

The total amounts carried forward to the next summit were:
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Money'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mithril'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''White Granite'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''True Liao'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>104 thrones, 11 rings</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td>
</table>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of donations received prior to the start of the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 1 throne, 2 crowns at the [[Rewarding#Counting Houses|counting house]] of [[Reikos]]
* 2 thrones at the counting house of [[Tassato]]
* 1 throne, 3 crowns at the counting house of [[Semmerholm]]
* 1 throne, 4 crowns at the counting house of [[Karsk]]
* 6 wains of mithril, 8 wains of white granite and 8 wains of weirwood from [[The_greatest_plurality#One_Empire|various donations]]
</div>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of Rewardings made at the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 10 thrones to '''Ioan Longshadow''' following [[#Judgement 12|Judgement 12]] being upheld (margin 1136)
* 5 wains of white granite to '''Cyrus of Athaliah's Handiwork''' following [[#Judgement 103|Judgement 103]] being upheld (margin 458)
* 40 thrones to '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''' following [[#Judgement 58|Judgement 8]] being upheld (margin 196)
* 3 wains of white granite to '''Anatolij''' following [[#Judgement 87|Judgement 87]] being upheld (margin 194)
* 6 wains of mithril to '''Xandor Trodbroker''' following [[#Judgement 121|Judgement 121]] being upheld (margin 155)
* 16 wains of weirwood to '''Oleander Ashwood''' following [[#Judgement 90|Judgement 90]] being upheld (margin 45)
</div>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of donations made during the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 65 thrones for the Bourse dose of True Liao from '''Umbar'''
* 6 crowns from '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian'''
* 1 crown from '''Berith Martel'''
* 16 rings in small donations
</div>

==Doses of True Liao==

Six doses of [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]] were disbursed this summit:
* One dose to '''Vesna Borkovna Prochnost''' as [[the Throne]]
* One dose in connection to the [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean University]] to '''Caleb of the Cenotaph''' via [[#Judgement 3|Judgement 3]]
* One dose to '''Umbar''' by purchase in the [[Public auction|Public Auction]]
* One dose to '''Ashborn Trosk''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Amberlain P. Black''' by decision of the Gatekeepers

==Assembly Strength==
The table below shows the size, total voting strength and greater majority thresholds for each assembly as calculated at the start of the summit.

{|
! scope=""col"" style=""width: 320px;"" | Virtue Assembly
! Assembly Size
! Total Voting Strength
! Greater Majority Threshold
|-
|Ambition || 53 || 742 || 372
|-
|Courage || 41 || 492 || 247
|-
|Loyalty || 61 || 788 || 395
|-
|Pride || 36 || 440 || 221
|-
|Prosperity || 42 || 513 || 257
|-
|Vigilance || 47 || 532 || 267
|-
|Wisdom || 41 || 554 || 278
|-
|The Way || 29 || 320 || 161
|-
|General || 350 || 4381 || 2191
|-
|}

{|
! scope=""col"" style=""width: 320px;"" | National Assembly
! Assembly Size
! Total Voting Strength
! Greater Majority Threshold
|-
|Brass Coast || 15 || 166 || 84
|-
|Dawn || 51 || 672 || 337
|-
|Highguard || 74 || 940 || 471
|-
|Imperial Orcs || 9 || 138 || 70
|-
|League || 36 || 514 || 258
|-
|Marches || 22 || 250 || 126
|-
|Navarr || 43 || 499 || 250
|-
|Urizen || 27 || 314 || 158
|-
|Varushka || 31 || 398 || 200
|-
|Wintermark || 42 || 490 || 246
|-
|General || 350 || 4381 || 2191
|-
|}

==Anchor the Way in Asavea==
Click ''Expand'' to see the list of contributions made to Anchor the Way in Asavea.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
{{CommissionProgress|Anchor_the_Way_in_Asavea}}
</div>

Myth makers

2026-07-21T22:40:03Z

Kirkbride: /* Overview */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Jotun]][[Category:Thule]]
{{CaptionedImage|file=Advisor Frith.jpg|align=left|caption='''Frith''', Advisor on Orc Affairs|width=250}}
==Overview==
* '''Five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy of one kind or another with the Empire'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations. Not all are barbarians; the Empire has a long-standing peace treaty with the Thule for example. There are also communities of orcs within the Empire's borders. Some are part of Imperial nations - the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]], the former [[Grendel]] of [[the League]], the free [[Jotun]] thralls of [[the Marches]]. Others maintain a degree of independence while still being at least ambivalent to the Empire - the orcs of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] and the [[Feroz#Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

While some of these orc nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] appointed to speak with them on behalf of the Empire. in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]]. The [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]], is in an ideal position to provide advice when needed. In practice, many of these orc groups prefer to deal with members of certain nations with whom they have ties - the Jotun prefer to talk to the folk of Wintermark for example, while the [[Great Forest Orcs]] consider the Navarr to be their close allies (in which regard, one might take a look at the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune which relates to that sept this season).
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Crab-traced-2.png|align=right|caption=Many of the Protectorate orcs are former Stone Born, the most heavily armoured and most disciplined of the Grendel [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun|Moridun]].|width=350}}</div>

==Protectorate of Morajasse==
* '''The Grendel controlling Morajasse have been recognised as foreigners by the Senate'''
* '''They have asked that the Imperial Consul handles communications with them rather than the Ambassador to the Grendel'''
While [[Feroz]] has mostly been liberated from the Grendel occupation, [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] remains in the hands of the master-strategist ''[[Fake empire#Gallum Fiersach|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]''. Ably supported by ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' - his partner and a master of the [[Autumn magic|lore of Sand]] - along with a significant number of veteran Grendel soldiers, they control the fortress of [[Feroz#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The Senate has recognised the orcs of the Protectorate of Morajasse as foreigners, distinct from the Grendel. From there they protect not only the borders of Morajasse, but also the borders of Feroz. They have shown themselves more than willing to fight both the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|Children of Wrecks]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]] if it [[Each age a lens#The Protectorate of Morajasse|comes to it]].

The Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognises]] Morajasse as ''a protectorate under the command of Gallum Fiersach, who will be deemed a foreigner as long as they remain independent from the Grendel''. So far, they seem to continue to be independent of the Grendel. Indeed, the protectorate has requested that all negotiations be handled by the [[Imperial Consul]] rather than the [[Ambassador to the Grendel]].

They clearly have hidden depths. They recently cooperated with the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticator's Office]] in an [[appraisal]] regarding [[The Oran operation|bridges across the Scorrero]], in which they particular expertise as scroungers and salvagers could play a key part. They've also made an arrangement with the people of the Brass Coast to concede a treasure of the Freeborn, in return for supplies to support their forces. For the moment, the atmosphere is one of cautious cooperation.
===Soldiers at Anvil===
* '''A delegation from the Protectorate of Morajasse is visiting Anvil during the Summer Solstice
* '''Commander Gallum has asked the Imperial Consul to arrange a meeting and listed several folk he is keen to see there
Following the successes of the last couple of seasons, Commander Gallum has sent a short message to the Imperial Consul indicating that some officers are coming to Anvil for the Summer Solstice. They're empowered to speak on his behalf, and on behalf of the Protectorate. This will present an opportunity to prepare a treaty to define the relationship between the Protectorate and the Empire going forward, securing the freedoms of the orcs and addressing any lingering concerns of the Freeborn of Feroz.

The emissaries are expected to arrive at Anvil at eight in the evening on Saturday. They will make their way to the Forge, which Gallum understands is the primary drinking hole and centre of social life at Anvil. There they would like to meet with the Imperial Consul (or an agent), '''Garviel i Adrina i Erigo''' the [[Senator]] of [[Feroz]], '''Khalil i Carno i Guerra''' the holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], and if possible a representative of both the [[Military Council]] and the [[Conclave]]. The latter has been requested by Wind Lord Saoirse, as she has briefed one of the visitors in line with her interests and concerns.
{{SOP|statement=To promote the prosperity of Feroz, we encourage the Freeborn to trade with their neighbours in the Protectorate of Morajasse.|by=Malaki, Freeborn Assembly|vote=Upheld (102-10)|when=Summer Solstice 388YE|size=small}}
===Spice Gardens===
* '''The Spice Gardens of Feroz are in business once again
* '''Sadiq i Isa i Erigo has resumed their position as Keeper of the Spice Gardens
Following the proposal of the Protectorate [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#Supplies,_Spies,_and_Spice|last season]], the [[Feroz#The_Spice_Gardens_of_Feroz|Spice Gardens of Feroz]] are now once again part of [[the Brass Coast]]. '''Sadiq i Isa i Erigo''' has resumed their position as [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]]. Negotiations between Freeborn of Feroz and the quartermasters of the Protectorate have seen several farms reopened in Morajasse, with strict quotas of food to be delivered to the orcs and the surplus being free for the farmers to dispose of as they wish. Effectively, a significant parcel of land around the Spice Gardens is now an Imperial enclave in Morajasse.

As part of the shift from lying fallow to being in operation again, some of the farmers report unexpected assistance from disciplined orc soldiers who dig out irrigation ditches and clear land. They aren't exactly friendly, but they've clearly been ordered to do so by someone who wants to make sure the farms are up and running (and producing food) as quickly as possible. As a consequence, Morajasse has lost the [[Region_qualities#Impoverished|impoverished]] quality - which is admittedly mostly of benefit to the orcs living there but at least represents a further move forward toward restoring Feroz to its former glories.

There is a minor fly in the ointment - during the Summer Solstice the Freeborn '''Malakai''' raised a [[statement of principle]] calling on the Freeborn to trade with their neighbours in the Protectorate. While the intent of the statement appears clear, it just failed to achieve a [[greater majority]]. As such, while some more politically engaged priests of Segura and Feriz are aware of it, it has not had a significant impact on relations between the Freeborn and the Protectorate. There is some trade, but many of the folk of Feroz in particular continue to hold the orcs of Morajasse at arms' length even after the agreement regarding the Spice Gardens. Obviously there is nothing to stop the Assembly trying again to address the situation in Feroz; the important thing from the point of view of the current situation is that they did ''not'' uphold a statement of principle with a greater majority urging their people ''not'' do deal with the Protectorate.
==Otkodov==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=thulebanner1.jpeg|align=right|width=250}}</div>
{{Nation|nation=[[Thule]]|status=Foreigner|port=None|ambassador=Kindra Surefoot of [[Wintermark]]}}
* '''The orcs of Otkodov remain at peace with the Empire
* '''The Thule are expanding their domain into the Forest of Ulnak, and are at war with the Druj
* '''Kindra Surefoot of Wintermark is the Ambassador to Otkodov
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] live in cold lands to the north of the Empire. They share a long mountainous border with [[Wintermark]], the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]], and [[Varushka]]. Their magocratic nation is ruled by the five [[Thule_lore#Dragons|Dragons]]; five allegedly immortal orc sorcerers. For much of Imperial history, they were at war with the Empire. In recent years, a series of treaties have secured peace - mostly by [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceding]] parts of the northern Imperial nations. It is not a universally ''popular'' peace.

For now, though, peace endures. [[Dawn]] and [[Navarr]] send shipments of food north to help feed the people of Otkodov and support their armies. It is illegal to preach the Way of Virtue in Otkodov to their citizens. For their part the Thule agree to share the [[white granite]] of the [[Night Quarry]]; pay for the food delivered to them; and ensure Imperial access to the
[[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria#The_Maze_of_Zoria|Maze of Zoria]] (while sending their own warlocks to study at the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]]). And, of course, to maintain their current policies for the reasonable treatment of Imperial citizens choosing to remain and live in ceded lands.

The official ambassador to the Empire is ''Runa Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided''. He is still somewhat new to his post, and something of an unknown quantity, but he speaks with confidence as the voice of the rulers of Otkodov.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Forest of Ulnak regions.png|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===The War in the Trees===
* '''The Thule continue to seek aid for their war against the Druj in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The orcs of Otkodov continue their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]]. Precisely how their war against the northern [[the Mallum|Mallum]] is proceeding is not common knowledge, although stories from those who [[Invited_with_asperity#Hinodir,_Tathenon,_and_the_Eastern_Woods|supported the Earthquake Drummers]] prior to the Spring Equinox have finally [[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers|spread far and wide]]. After the Spring Equinox, Imperial [[military unit|warbands]] continued to fight with the Thule, and it is likely ther tales will likewise filter through to Imperial citizens with an interest in the coming months.

''Tathenon the Gyre'', the most warlike of the [[Thule_lore#Dragons|Dragons]] who rule Otkovdov, continued to direct the invasion. He apparently sees no reason to end a good relationship; his [[Voice_irresistable#Grim_Faces|invitation to the Empire]] still stands. Individual [[military unit|warbands]] are welcome to support the [[army]] of the ''Earthquake Drummers'' if they wish, and will receive a bounty of crystal mana as recognition of their efforts. Likewise any Imperial army is welcome to join the war against the Druj in the north, provided they acknowledge the strategy of ''Tathenon, Whose Fury is the Storm of Creation''.

As before, the civil service caution that sending armies into the Forest of Ulnak this season ''without'' agreeing to accept the strategy of Tathenon the Gyre will mean that the Empire's troops will act as a separate force. Should the two forces assail the same [[territory#regions|region]] there is an unfortunate possibility of "friendly fire" incidents.

The offer to fight alongside the armies of Otkodov may be of particular interest to the [[Winter Sun]], given the [[All_I_ask_of_you#Shadows_And_Light|plight]] of the [[Great Forest Orcs]].

====Participation: Ulnak====
* '''Characters whose military units were operating in the Forest of Ulnak this season will receive additional information'''
Individual captains who accompanied the Earthquake Drummers, and anyone supporting the [[spy network]] in the Forest, will have more information about the situation there. This will take the form of a short out-of-character briefing in their packs, the information from which they can share or keep private as they see fit.
===An Imperfect Forum===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Kindra Surefoot.jpg|caption='''Kindra Surefoot''', Ambassador to Otkodov|align=right|width=300}}
* '''The Ambassador to Otkodov is invited to attend a meeting at 22:15 on Friday'''
* '''The meeting will take place in a Prospero chamber accessed from the Hall of Worlds'''
* '''Members of the Circle of Zulgan Tash are invited as well'''
Runa Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided has invited the [[Ambassador to Otkodov]] to attend a meeting at the Summer Solstice. Runa has expressed that such a meeting would be best held in a [[Lashonar#Caucus Forum | Caucus Forum]], obviously, but that sadly Lashonar is currently unwilling to allow Imperial citizens into such chambers. As a result, the Thule have been forced to ''pay'' [[Prospero]] for use of one of his meeting rooms. Farrimond, a Herald of Prospero will collect the delegation from The Hall of Worlds at Quarter Past Ten on Friday evening and escort them to the ''Aureate Jetty'' where the delegation from Otkodov will be waiting.

Runa has offered his thanks to the Ambassador for supplying a list of agenda items. The Thule have added their own topics to the list, and the agenda will be as follows:
* The [[Vallorn]], and how to proceed in eradicating it
* Breaches of law and treaty, and how best to deal with them if they occur
* Enchantments in shared territories
* [[Otkodov|Otkodov's]] policy as regards the septs of [[the Mallum]]
* [[Great_Forest_Orcs|The orcs of Peytaht]]
* "Defectors"
* The Imperial approach to war in The Mallum, with regard to Ulnak especially
* Division of conquered regions in The Mallum
* Opportunities for economic collaboration in The Mallum
* The Circle of Zulgan Tash and [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|the Painted Caves]]

Runa asks that the Ambassador bring with her Aleksandr of the Circle of Zulgan Tash and Zastyt the Feeder. Runa will be accompanied by [[Invited with asperity#State Visit|Galk, of the Sunken Orb of the Brilliant Sapphire]], a warlock in service to [[Thule_lore#Dragons|Hinodir]], Who Burns Away The Shrouds of Midnight, that the two ambassadors might act as mediators in the matter of the Painted Caves. If the ambassador wishes, then that topic can be dealt with first and their guests permitted to leave the ''Jetty'' rather than be forced to sit through the other negotiations.

===Pilgrims on the Road===
{{SOP|statement=The Guardian of the Maze of Zoria calls for the aid of the wise ones of the Empire. The Maze of Zoria has proven in the past to be a conduit of knowledge regarding magical beings such as the sovereigns of Varushka. Come to the Maze of Zoria, together we shall discern the nature of the creature behind the face-peelers. This creature is known as "The Stranger", "The First One", or less commonly "The Smiling One". Let us learn of this threat to our Empire together.|by=Illya Nikovitch Volkov, Wisdom Assembly|when=388YE Spring Equinox|vote={{GM}} 328-0|size=small}}
* '''Thule warlocks are observing visitors to the Maze of Zoria'''

Several [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Wise One|wise ones]] (as well as other followers of [[Wisdom]]) have set out to visit the [[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria#The_Maze_of_Zoria|Maze of Zoria]], responding to a call from [[388YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement 73 | Illya Nikovitch Volkov]] in the Wisdom assembly. They must travel through Thule land to reach the Maze, which pilgrims are permitted to visit under the terms of the treaty. Fortunately, most of the travellers are familiar with the importance of keeping to the road (though in this case it is the laws of Otkodov not the threat of terrible creatures awaiting them if they stray).

It seems that the Thule are forewarned of the influx of pilgrims and a few Thule merchants make efforts to sell food, water and other essentials for Imperial coin. They do a moderate trade, but most of the travellers have come fully prepared and do not need their services. They are not the only Thule interested in the Imperial pilgrims however. Every now and then, in areas where the merchants are not present, travellers encounter a lone Thule [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlock]] standing on a nearby hill or beneath the boughs of a tree. These warlocks make no attempt to stop anyone using the road, for now at least, they only observing who is passing.

==Beoraidh==
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Loud Gull.jpg|caption=The city-state of Beoraidh continues to seek diplomatic and economic ties with the Empire, among others.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''The people of Beoraidh are recognised as foreigners by the Senate'''
* '''They continue to seek trade and diplomatic ties with both the Empire and the Grendel'''
* '''They have accepted the patronage of the Sarcophan Delves'''
* '''The ambassador to Beoraidh is the Highborn Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard'''
{{Nation|nation=[[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]]|status=Foreigner|port=Currently none.|ambassador= Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard of [[Highguard]]}}
Before [[Mareave]] was conquered by the Empire, Beoraidh was the stronghold of the [[Grendel]] Salt-Lord Ehsan and his supporters. In a surprise move, Ehsan declared independence from the [[Grendel]] and sued for peace with the Empire. He laid out a plan for his people that involved declaring the city, and the neighbouring region of [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]], as a neutral state. Now a free port where both Imperial and Grendel merchants would be welcome, without favouring either, and the canny diplomat has also secured the protection of the ''bedelaar huisbaas'' of the [[Sarcophan Delves]].

The newly styled ''Ehsan, Lord of Sand'' rules from the city. They work to mould the place into a "free port" where traders from everywhere are welcome - provided they bring money or goods to trade. As discussed in the '''[[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Polite_Correspondence|A wild night and a new road]]''' wind of fortune, Beoraidh has come [[All_the_night-tide#Beoraidh|under the protection]] of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - something that has not sat entirely easily with their Imperial neighbours. How much influence the Sarcophan have is unclear but it implies that anyone attacking Beoraidh - Grendel, Imperial, or otherwise - will incur the wrath of the Delves, their warships, and their economic sanctions.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard.jpeg|caption='''Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard''', Ambassador to Beoraidh|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Trade Winds===
* '''A meeting between representatives of Beoraidh and Skoura took place with the aid of the Imperial civil service'''
* '''The meeting went reasonably well
* '''As per his promise, Ehsan has arranged a meeting with a representative of the Brine Turtles for the Summer Solstice

The big news from Beoraidh is probably that the [[Senate]] agreed to instruct the civil service to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Coordinate_Meeting_between_Beoraidh_and_Skoura|coordinate a meeting]] between the city and the nation of [[Skoura]]. As a descendant of the people who originally drove the Skouran ancestors into the mountains in the first place, and conquered their lowland holdings, Ehsan was perhaps rightly [[A_knock_at_the_door#Up_In_The_Peaks|concerned]] that he and his people would receive short shrift from the people of the highlands.

According to the civil service, the initial meetings - which took place on neutral ground in [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]] were guarded but cautiously optimistic. Neither side has committed to anything despite the enthusiastic sales pitch of the Beoraidh contingent, but agreements to engage in further discussion have been made. The civil service do caution that there was an "advisor" from Sarcophan with the city state delegation and while they didn't do much talking they certainly had the opportunity to introduce themselves to the Skouran representatives.

As per his promise, Salt Lord Ehsan has used his own influence to arrange a meeting with representatives of the Brine Turtles sept of [[Mareave#Fleisardh|Fleisardh]]. The delegation will include one of the elders of the sept, a high ranking warleader from the [[army]], and a [[Grendel]] advisor. Ehsan suggests that any Imperial delegation be kept to three likewise; he suggests the [[Senator]] for Mareave would probably be a good choice, as might the [[Ambassador to the Grendel]]. The meeting is due to take place at {{TBC}} in {{TBC}}.
===Investment===
* '''A new trading post exchanging Beoraidh salt for Unshackled beef has been established in Mareave
* '''Ehsan is very pleased to hear that there is further interest in investment opportunities in the city state
The Senator for Mareave also [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_Beoraidh_Trading_Post|commissioned a trading post]] that would allow Beoraidh to trade salt for Unshackled beef - a potentially quite lucrative trade that has brought prosperity to both the [[Shepherd of the Southern Herd]] and the [[Shepherd of the Great Herd]] in [[Skarsind]]. A healthy exchange of goods is now taking place across the borders of barren [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]].

It appears that the Ambassador also did a good job of warning the citizens of Beoraidh that the [[Rivers of Life]] were due to be raised over Mareave after the Spring Equinox. Ehsan has been voluble in his approval of the move, indicating that it seems to have led to a significant burst of growth in the normally quite hardscrabble farms of Sinfoyard. He is aware the effect is short-lived, and unpredictable. In an unguarded moment, he also mentions "strange crops" growing in the arid grasslands north of Beoraidh, although he does not give any details.

With Ambassador Melkior assuring Ehsan that funding for the trade docks has been secured, and that there is significant interest in the [[A_knock_at_the_door#Diamant_Drakes| colosseum]], it seems that relations between the tiny city state and the Empire are going from strength the strength.

===Sarcophan Concerns===
* '''Ehsan, Lord of Sand thanks the Ambassador for their words regarding the Sarcophan Delves
* '''Beoraidh welcomes the protection of the Delves because without it they do not believe their city state can endure
One thing Ehsan is not entirely prepared to hear from the Ambassador however are any words of caution about the Sarcophan Delves. The self-styled ''Lord of Sand'' politely thanks Ambassador Melkior for their well meaning sentiments, but makes it clear that as a former Salt-Lord he is no naif new to the realities of politics and trade. Yes, Sarcophan will take some of the city, but in return they will deliver the kind of prosperity he and his people need to survive. When the Sarcophan approached them, he and his advisors are under no illusions about the precariousness of their situation. Both the Empire and the Grendel have good reason to want to control Beoraidh, given it represents the only anchorage where trading vessels can dock. Once one side or the other secured their control of Mareave, it would surely be only a matter of time before they began to place increasing demands on Beoraidh.

As it is, the protection of Sarcophan means that both of their neighbours will need to think very carefully about whether they want to risk the anger of the great power. The price is well worth the protection, but the Lord of Sand does thank the Ambassador for telling him that foolish lips are dubbing the City-State a "protectorate" of Sarcophan. Just because it is basically ''true'' is no reason to say it out loud, after all.
==Jotun==
<div {{float}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Jotunarmy.jpg|title=Jotun banners often show the skulls of powerful creatures.|align=right|width=350}}</div>
* '''The Jotun remain at war with the Empire'''
* '''Responsibility and authority for diplomacy with the Jotun falls to the Imperial Consul'''
The [[Jotun]] are a powerful, martial nation led by the Jarl of Jarls - Queen Yrsa Jansdóttir of [[Jotun#History|Kalsea]] and King Gudmundr Arason of [[Jotun#History|Narkyst]]. The Empire has been at war with them for most of its existence, although there have been numerous short periods of peace during that time. They encroach into Imperial lands - [[Bregasland]] and [[Liathaven]] (which they name ''Ashvale'') are under Jotun control, and their recent invasion of [[Mitwold]] has [[Pride in the Marches#Mitwold_Triumph|only just ended]].

There is no ambassador to the Jotun. They seem never to have been especially interested in such a formalised relationship with the Empire. That is not to say that they are incapable of engaging in diplomacy or negotiation, merely that they tend to prefer to deal with individual nations rather than the Empire as a whole. Over the centuries they have had a "close" relationship with the folk of [[Wintermark]], for example, for all that the two nations clash constantly along their borders. In recent times, they have also shown a similar degree of respect for [[the Brass Coast|the Freeborn]]. When the Empire as a whole must deal with the orcs of Kalsea and Narkyst, however, the responsibility falls to the [[Imperial Consul]].
===The Unity Of Deed And Word===
* '''The shrine to the Way on Gull Isle has been completed'''
* '''A conjunction of the Sentinel Gate provides the opportunity to enact the consecration of the shrine'''
* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
* '''''Erlend'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for assembling a party to carry out the ceremony'''

<quote by="Mandate, Skáldsgrým Dunhearth, General Assembly, Spring Solstice 388YE, Vote: Upheld (1490-60)>The Virtuous build up their fellows, they do not tear them down. We send Erlend with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Virtuous shrine at the Meeting Place. Let us display our Loyalty through the unity of words and deeds.</quote>

Slowly but surely, the wheels of Synod process turn. Last season the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|mandate of Skáldsgrým Dunhearth]] was passed by the General Assembly, following through on the opportunity to [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#The_Chains_That_Bind_Us|consecrate a shrine at the Meeting Place]]. The civil service confirms that the conjunction to the Meeting Place that was identified last season has held strong, and that the Sentinel Gate will open at 18:15 on Saturday of the forthcoming summit. Erlend, the citizen charged with fulfilling the mandate of consecration, will be in charge of assembling a group to witness the ceremony. The shrine is completed, and anchoring the consecration should be no more difficult than somewhere in Anvil.

Gull Isle is known to be an ancient place of cooperation and cultural exchange between the ancestors of the Jotun and the Kallavesi. To honour this legacy, three ghodi have travelled to the great feasting hall to witness the ceremony. Gunnr the Watchful is announced as a respected elder, Magni Red Kite as a keen supporter of the new Meeting Place, and Eirik the Golden as a well-known yegarra who has had contact with Imperial priests before. All three hope to discuss the meaning of the aura and what it represents to the Empire.

The Jotun understand that the Imperials will direct the ceremony as befits their faith, with whatever poems, songs and stories feel most appropriate to them. That there will be such expressions of Imperial culture seems to be taken for granted. They also make it clear that this should not be considered closed to just the Winterfolk. The Empire has many nations, after all, and they would be pleased to meet with a broad array of representatives. Any with questions to ask and stories to tell are welcome at the Meeting Place!

==Grendel==
* '''Speaker Morna has been sarcastic at the Ambassador to the Grendel
* '''They have apparently sent a private response to Starlight Starchaser
* '''The Ambassador to the Grendel is Starlight Starchaser of Urizen
And finally... By all accounts Speaker Morna is a little surprised to hear from '''Starlight Starchaser''', the offical [[Ambassador to the Grendel]]. With the [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Abrogation|abrogation]] of the [[embassy]] in [[Redoubt#Cargo|Cargo]], he had assumed the ambassador had lost their position as well. Surely the Ambassador cannot expect the Grendel to take an Imperial diplomat without a palace seriously? Beyond suing for peace, what is the value of a pauper ambassador?

All that said, however, Speaker Morna notes that Starlight Starchaser has sent an interesting missive and plans to reply to them directly rather than via their presumably non-existent staff.

Seeds of discord

2026-07-21T22:39:37Z

Kirkbride: /* Overview */

[[Category:Wind of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Faraden]][[Category:Axos]][[Category:Iron Confederacy]][[Category:Tsark]]
<ic>Master Azad could barely contain his fury and outrage. Singua had been watched him pace back and forth in the reception area of the palace for several minutes, mentally composing a plan to deal with his inevitable outburst. She knew from reputation that he was capable of cold-blooded murder - never in Faraden of course - and yet at the same time to have her guards present would be to betray weakness. She could not afford to show fear to the Asavean ambassador.

"The Plenum demands that Faraden answer for the unprovoked judicial murder of one of their citizens!" Each word was clipped, almost spat out, as if they were fleeing the cage of his teeth against his will.

Mistress Karadragha made a show of picking up the scroll on the table before her and perusing it carefully, although she knew its contents by heart. Over the top of the parchment she could see Master Azad clenching his fists tight enough to whiten his knuckles. The Plenum would be looking for someone to blame for this disaster. Singua wished the investigators had managed to find a clear link between Master Azad and his proxy but he had been very careful to ensure that there was nothing to find. Not in Faraden, at least.

"I'm sorry, Master Azad, but the evidence is overwhelming. There is no doubt as to their guilt, and the punishment for their crime is appropriate. There is no case to answer - Justice has been served. I don't know what more you want me to say to you, or to your Plenum?"

Azad actually growled, and leant forward, putting his hands on the desk. Ambassador Karadragha was very pleased at that moment that the sturdy furniture between them.

"The evidence is fabricated! The Empire are liars, and enemies of the Plenum, and I demand that everything they have said be stricken from your records."

"You demand? Or your Plenum demands?" Mistress Karadragha looked up at him properly for the first time, favoured him with her cool attention. "Master Azad, Tommasso Triusti was providing money and support to the Cinders. An organisation the Liege of the Five Winds, with the support of the priestly families, had proscribed. There is no mistake here, and no error, and there is no doubt that the Imperial witnesses were telling the truth. You are ''very'' fortunate that the evidence also points to the fact that Trusti was working alone, without the knowledge of the Plenum. Or its ambassador. Because otherwise the Flames of Justice would have spread ''considerably'' farther."

The Asavean ambassador removed his hands from her desk and stood up ramrod straight.

"You have not heard the last of this." He hissed.

Mistress Karadragha inclined her head in calm acknowledgement.

"Of course, and I will convey the concerns of the Plenum to the Liege of the Five Winds, along with your assurance that you were unaware of what your countryman was about, and your condemnation of their actions. Assuming the Plenum ''does'' condemn their actions?"

Azad took a step forward, and Mistress Karadragha felt her heart beating like rain, but then the Asavean Ambassador regained control of himself. He spun on his heel, and strode out of her office, slamming the door behind him hard enough to raise splinters from the frame.

The Faraden diplomat relaxed back into her chair, and not for the first time considered what an absolute toerag the Asavean Ambassador was. She rang the small silver bell on her desk, to call for one of her aides. Tea would not be sufficient this time; it would take a stout mug of airag to calm her nerves. Perhaps more than one.</ic>
==Overview==
There are six great powers in the known world whose influence and reach rivals that of the Empire. There also innumerable lesser powers who do not have the might to shake the world, but who are nonetheless important to those with whom they share a border. The ambitions of these nearby nations are no less relevant to the Empire. Sometimes diplomatic relations require in-depth analysis; sometimes there is an opportunity to catch one's breath and let the drama move slowly towards the next crisis point.

There are [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to some of these nations - the [[Iron Confederacy|Suranni]], [[Axos]], the [[Thule]], and [[Faraden]] in particular. Other nations are dealt with by the [[Imperial Consul]]. Sometimes a neighbouring nation focuses on diplomacy with the Empire, and requires an in-depth discussion. Sometimes however there is less going on in a given season and diplomacy can be part of a wider, roundup. For example '''[[Myth makers]]''' covers nearly half a dozen of the orc nations that lie near the Empire.

Here we can read about several neighbouring nations to the Empire not covered in detail elsewhere - the [[#Axos|Axou]], the [[#Faraden|Faraden]], the [[#Iron Confederacy|Iron Confederacy]], and [[#Tsark|Tsark]], as well as the folk of [[#Marracossa|Marracossa]], the exiles of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] who live in [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Madruga]].

==Axos==
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Alikos Helio.jpg|caption=The Victorious Axis continue to go from strength to strength.|align=right|width=500}}</div>
* '''Axos remains allied to the Empire through treaty and through the Liberty Pact
* '''They have taken ownership of the region of Thornfen in Sarangrave
* '''The Imperial ambassador to Axos is Thanmir Hrafnar of Wintermark
Imperial relations with the [[Axos|Citadels of Axos]] remain steadily positive. Partly this is due to the [[Synod|Synod's]] work during the [[It_never_happened#Solokha|reclamation of Solokha]], partly due to the ongoing alliance between Axos and the Empire in [[Sarangrave]] which has seen them gain custody of the massive [[fortification]] known as the [[Sarangrave#Tower of the Skink|Tower of the Skink]]. A new status quo has been established in the tiny nation following the [[Victory_and_unity#Times_Change|upheaval]] that followed the rise of the ambitious ''Grand Ilarch Kyther''. A formal Grand Council guides the nation, and the [[A_better_future#Unified_Convocation|Unified Convocation]] works to bring Axos' disparate religious [[Bands#Sects|sects]] together in a similar way.

The ambassador cannot become complacent however; Axos is no less touchy about its independence that it has ever been, and relations could sour again very easily. For the moment, though, the Axos Ambassador to the Empire ''Ilarch Kario Skopos of Solokha'' remains cordial and sometimes even friendly. Skopos is a scion of an influential family from the [[Axos#Chambers of Ussyk|Chambers of Issyk]], who has renounced his ties to the citadel of his birth at the instruction of the Grand Council for as long as he holds the post. This is intended to signify neutrality in the politics of the citadel, to make him a worthier intermediary through which the Axou can deal with their allies in the Empire.
{{Nation|nation=[[Axos]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]] and [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Chambers of Issyk]]|ambassador='Shacklebreaker' Thanmir Hrafnar of [[Wintermark]]}}
===Claiming Thornfen===
* '''Axos has claimed the region of Thornfen in Sarangrave
* '''They have removed the former Druj subjects who lived there
* '''The Axou are preparing to rebuild the Tower of the Skink
Ambassador Skopos thanks his opposite number in the Empire for their timely warning relating to [[vallorn]], [[Druj]], and Imperial [[enchantment|enchantments]]. They wax lyrical about how this kind of cooperation between allies is a portent of the great things Axos and the Empire can achieve together when they put their minds to it. He even praises Imperial magicians - the [[Autumn magic]] laid on the territory made the task of removing the Druj subjects in Thornfen significantly easier. In return, the experts at the [[Axos#Halls_of_Maykop|Halls of Maykop]] have been considering how to address the dangers presented by Druj armies supported by the shambling dead Ambassador Hrafnar has spoken of.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Thane Thanmir Hrafnar.jpg|caption=Thane Thanmir Hrafnar is Ambassador to Axos.|align=left|width=300}}</div>
Over the last season however the Ipotavan forces in Sarangrave have been occupied by completing the task of claiming [[Sarangrave#Thornfen|Thornfen]]. Their efforts were hampered a little by fallout from the [[vallorn]] expansion, and the need to eject several thousand people from the marshes around the Tower of the Skink. As the Summer Solstice dawns, the region as a whole is now in Axou hands. Imperial armies are free to move through it, as per their [[Ratify_Axos_Treaty_Autumn_387YE#The_Treaty|treaty]] with the Empire, but the civil service note that the Axou could theoretically remove this privilege at any time.

As they [[Wise_and_measured#Sephals_and_Strategy|said they would]], the Axou army has exiled all the former subjects of the Druj they can find in the region. They have been channeled primarily into the [[Sarangrave#Whisperwood|Whisperwood]], with a few stragglers ending up in [[Sarangrave#Kroll|Kroll]]. The vast majority of these exiles are [[orc|orcs]] but there are also humans among their number - only those former slaves of the [[Druj]] who could prove a connection to Axos were allowed to remain. The Axou have by all accounts made only minimal efforts to identify any actual Druj among these former inhabitants of Thornfen - they have simply thrown ''everyone'' out. Or at least, everyone they could find. The army is unable to focus its full attention on the wilder places of the region, and there are a number of organised groups of Druj guerillas in Thornfen who were once part of the garrison of the Tower, who continue to harass Axou soldiers.

This means that there are now a significant number of people whose legal status is very unclear loose in the Sarangrave, without supplies, shelter, or in many cases, any real idea what is going on. That, however, is a problem for Urizen and the Empire, not the Axou.

Most Imperial citizens in the territory are busy engaged with the vallorn, or fighting off the Druj this season, but there are some reports that the Axou are moving large amounts of [[white granite]] into the region through the [[Sarangrave#Path_of_the_Eye|Path of the Eye]] - the pass that links [[the Mallum]] with Axos. They've also brought in a large number of labourers, recruited at apparently ruinous expense from all the citadels of the nation. While some are being garrisoned at the Tower, an equally large number have begun establishing camps in the vicinity of the wrecked city of Sephals - and it doesn't look as if they are planning to rebuild it. Indeed, it looks a lot more like they are planning to tear it apart to salvage building materials. Presumably after looting it.

===Armies of the Dead===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Garrison of Thornfen'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Senate Motion or Treaty</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Must explicitly give the garrison of Thornfen the right to move around Imperial Sarangrave and deal with threats to the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Allows the garrison of Thornfen to operate outside of that region anywhere except Nesustak Forest or Bendol</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Could be raised as part of a treaty</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Axou are struggling to establish a garrison at the Tower of the Skink'''
* '''Ilarch Skopos asks for the empire to donate up to 80 wains of mithril to help get the new Axou garrison established'''
* '''Before the garrison can protect Sarangrave it requires a Senate Motion granting it the explicit power to move around and fight threats'''
The Axou control the Tower of the Skink, and following negotiations with the [[Military Council]] are prepared to help protect Sarangrave from the threat of invasion or rebellion. With that in mind, Ilarch Skopos asks that the Senate make this arrangement clear with a [[Senate motion]]. If they are prepared to explicitly invite the Axou to defend Sarangrave (with the obvious current exceptions of Nesustak Forest and Bendol), then their garrison stands ready. Such a motion would provide the needed legal permission to go anywhere in the Imperial held regions of the territory and deal with threats to its people as they see fit. The freedom would apply to both the garrison of the Tower of the Skink and Axou armies - who would be free to move should they wish to in the same way Imperial armies can currently move through Thornfen. Without such a mandate to act, the garrison and the army will be restricted to defending Thornfen only.

As it stands the garrison would certainly protect Thornfen from the Empire if they ever tried to claim it, or to move armies through it without the permission of the Grand Ilarchs. The [[Civil Service|civil service]] advise that as well as the obvious benefits, the declaration requested by Ilarch Skopos will give Axou troops to move around Sarangrave, which could in theory present problems if relations with Axos were to sour. Ultimately the key issue is one of control. With the garrison under the control of the Axou it will ultimately be down to them what it does.

That might not be a problem for a while as the new Axou garrison at Thornfen is taking a while to establish itself. With vallorn and Druj alike in the territory this season, there has been no movement toward establishing the new. Ilarch Skopos informs Ambassador Thanmir that there is a recruitment drive taking place in Axos at the moment but that response has been slow. The Grand Ilarch of Ipotavo is frustrated by this state of affairs - it's not as if the Axou were unaware of this potential problem - and has demanded Ilarch Skopos find a solution.

The civil service estimate that it will take a minimum of two and a half years for the Axou garrison at the Tower of the Skink to reach its full strength, assuming there are no additional setbacks. Any season where there is fighting in Sarangrave will prevent the Axou from resupplying and could even see losses if the garrison is drawn into the fight; opposing forces prevent natural resupply even if the garrison is not directly involved.

The Axou could use either mithril or weirwood to increase the speed with which the garrison would establish itself, but the Grand Ilarchs' Council seems loath to contribute their own comparatively limited wains to do so. Ilarch Skopos does not come straight out and ''ask'' Ambassador Thanmir to see if the Empire can be convinced to provide such support, but the ''implication'' is very clear. If the Empire wants the garrison to be ready for battle on a meaningful time-scale they will need to provide the wains to the Axou.

===Lemuré===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Advice Regaring Lemuré'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Historical Research</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:'''
* Should clearly indicate it is taking advantage of the offer from the Halls of Maykop
* If the commission mentions specific aspects of dealing with lemuré that may help guide the research result
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 liao</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Produces a historical research document relating to lemuré and methods of dealing with them</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Summer Solstice 388YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tarquinius Ankarien.jpg|caption=Former Ambassador Tarquinius Ankarien (left) tirelessly campaigned to strengthen ties between the Empire and Axos.|align=left|width=300}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Hazelelponi.jpg|align=right|caption=Hazelelponi of the [[Highguard_groups#The_Shattered_Tower|Shattered Tower]] raised the final peerless kinship mandate.|width=300}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Watt of Lambrook.jpg|caption='''Watt of Lambrook''', Minister of Historical Research|align=left|width=300}}</div>
* '''The Ambassador has requested Axou assistance with matters relating to lemuré
* '''The Halls of Maykop are prepared to cooperate with historical research into the matter
While the Halls of Maykop are considering the matter of Druj armies supported by ghoulish horrors, Ilarch Skopos has also asked them for any guidance they can offer the [[High Exorcist]] '''Lord Belial de Courtenay Wyldrose''' in their work to combat one of the ''lemuré''. Ambassador Hafnir mentioned former Ambassador '''Tarquinius Ankarien''', and Ilarch Skopos has had some of his staff review the archives and found some information that his own predecessor ''Maxatios'' provided in the past. The libraries of Maykop are extensive, especially when it relates to ghosts and similar entities. Ilarch Skopos is confident that information exists; the challenge will be finding something specifically useful to the High Exorcist in their current endeavour.

After discussion with ''Grand Ilarch Keloparia'' of Maykop, an agreement has been reached (albeit a little grudgingly). It is the request to study with masters of ''necromantia'' that has apparently swung Keloparia's opinion in favour of the proposal. The High Exorcist of the Empire wanting aid from the magicians of Maykop, rather than the ''Convocation of Faith'' apparently bodes well. Ilarch Skopos cannot quite conceal the fact that the popularity of "Theodosia Azesos' experiment" seems to have stalled a little, to the amusement of some of her political opponents.

Regardless, the Halls will make some members of the research staff and one of the ''necromantia'' librarians available to host an Imperial scholar should they wish to visit after the Summer Solstice to investigate ''necromantia'' relating to the lemuré. Unfortunately, due to the faculty schedules, the Empire would need to take this offer up during the Summer Solstice - after that it would need to be rearranged and there is no guarantee that anyone would be available to assist such a scholarly endeavour. Ilarch Skopos notes that the faculty at Maykop will be expecting a member of the [[Historical_research#The_Department_of_Historical_Research|Department of Historical Research]]; the invitation sadly cannot be extended to other scholars (explicitly this means the [[Lepidean Librarian]] cannot commission this research).

In return, Maykop will expect 50 doses of [[liao]]. As the ambassador proposed, this would be an ideal gift for the Grand Ilarch and the faculty staff to thank them for their time. Not because they intend to use it for any religious purposes, Ilarch Skopos clarifies, but because it is very useful in certain ''necromantia'' rites. ('''OOC Notes:''' The character who commissions the research should ensure they have to 50 liao in their inventory after the event and e-mail {{plot}} so that we can remove it and confirm the opportunity).

The civil service note that if the commission opportunity is taken up, whoever commissions it could include some guidance as to what kinds of things the High Exorcist would find useful. This would serve as a guideline for the researchers, who would do their best to find materials that related to those specific queries. Obviously, though, the final report will depend as much on what the Axou of Maykop are prepared to spare as anything else. There's also a note of caution that it is possible this research may retread some of that already shared with former ambassador Tarquinius - and expectations should be managed appropriately.

===An Empty Bottle (Conjunction)===
* '''A company of Grendel are moving to attack a grounded Axou ship'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for ensuring that less than a dozen Grendel survive'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Trade between Axos and the Empire is flourishing, in no small part due to the efforts of the [[Quaymaster of the Elosian Docks]]. Unfortunately, ships sailing in and out of the docks mean more chance of a mishap leading to disaster. Two weeks before the solstice, an Axou trading vessel runs aground while on the return trip downstream. The crew and cargo are relatively safe and decidedly more sober than they were, and awaiting rescue. Unfortunately, a passing ship of the Grendel has landed close by, and its crew are moving towards the grounded Axou.

It is the responsibility of the incumbent [[Quaymaster of the Elosian Docks]], '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', to ensure that fewer than a dozen Grendel make it to the ship. If fewer than a dozen pirates survive the encounter, the Axou repel the Grendel. If a dozen or more survive, the Axou crew will be forced to abandon their cargo.

If the Axou survive, it will increase confidence in trading at the Elosian Docks, reducing costs for the Quaymaster in dragonbone to purchase white granite by roughly a tenth. If, however, the Grendel claim the cargo of the grounded ship, it will have the opposite effect, increasing costs in dragonbone by roughly a tenth.

==Faraden==
* '''Faraden is at peace with the Empire, and trades freely with Imperial citizens
* '''The Liege of Five Winds appears to favour the Empire, but there are powerful factions in Faraden that prefer closer ties with Asavea
* '''Faraden is in the process of disentangling itself from Asavean interests
{{Nation|nation=[[Faraden]]|port=[[Foreign ports#Caitun|Caitun]]|ambassador=Mina i Yashum i Riqueza of [[the Brass Coast]]|status=Foreigner}}
[[Faraden]] lies to the west of the Empire, across the Lasambrian Hills of [[Reinos]]. Trade is its lifeblood, but it is also a country of canny wizards, [[Courage|Courageous]] warriors, and [[Pride|Proud]] (albeit heretical) priests. They currently do not share a border with the Empire, lying beyond the [[Jotun]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that does not stop them sending their caravans to Imperial markets despite the high tariffs they must pay to pass through the lands between. Diplomatic relations between the Court of the Five Winds and the Imperial Senate are changeable - warm one moment, cool the next - but it has never come to open warfare. Right now Faraden is squeezed between two competing interests - the Empire on one side and the angry Plenum of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] on the other - and they must walk a knife-edge between the two powerful nations.

The Faraden ambassador to the Empire is ''Mistress Singua Karadragha''. Mistress Singua advises the Court of the Five Winds on all diplomatic matters, and speaks on their behalf to foreign ambassadors. Her attitude to the Empire appears to be cool but professional, and heavily informed by the wishes of the Liege and their court, who seek more opportunities to trade with the Empire.
===Notes of Recognition===
<div style="display:inline-block; float: right; width: 300px">{{CaptionedImage|file=Mina6596.jpg|caption='''Mina i Yashum i Riqueza''', Ambassador to Faraden|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''Mina i Yashum i Riqueza, former Azure Sutannir, is the new ambassador to Faraden
* '''The Liege of Five Winds sends a note of thanks to former Ambassador Ebenezer of the Marches
Kistress Karadragha begins by sending greetings and congratulations to the new [[Ambassador to Faraden|Ambassador]] '''Mina i Yashum i Riqueza'''. As former [[Azure Sutannir]], their name is already known to the Faraden diplomat. She also sends a note on behalf of the Liege of the Five Winds thanking the former Ambassador, '''Ebenezer''', for their work cementing the growing friendship between the two nations, along with wishes for a warm future full of Prosperity and Pride.

It is perhaps a shame that the first message to the new ambassador also contains confirmation that the Faraden will be signing a new peace treaty with the Jotun during the Summer Solstice. As discussed [[Five_flames#Peace_and_the_Jotun|previously]], without a major commitment from allies to support Faraden against the [[orc|orcs]] the nation is not prepared to go to war. Reading between the lines, it seems that the [[Iron Confederacy]] invasion of [[Reinos]] is not going the way the Court of Five Winds would have hoped.

In response to the polite request of the new ambassador, however, Mistress Karadragha explains that the main concern for the Faraden at this moment is that their merchants are able to travel freely to the Empire, and trade with Imperial citizens. Ensuring that they retain the ability to do so is of paramount importance.

===Ashes to Ashes===
* '''Faraden authorities have executed an Asavean citizen accused of funding the Cinders'''
* '''The Asaveans have closed their embassy in Faraden, but have not broken off diplomatic relations'''
* '''The Liege of the Five Winds has made a public speech commending Imperial law enforcement'''
For some weeks after the spring equinox Faraden is abuzz over an intersection of international diplomacy and high criminality. Tommasso Triusti, an Asavean citizen caught up in the [[Five_flames#Cinders_Extinguished|purge of the Cinders]], has been publicly executed for conspiracy to commit treason. It was an undignified affair, so the rumour goes. Unlike the Cinders, who met their deaths with dignity, their foreign enabler wept with fear and alternated between pleading for a reprieve and haranguing both the crowd and the executioner. The Faraden have strong opinions as to how condemned criminals ought to act, and this cowardly display has earned opprobrium from all corners of society.

The Asaveans are, by all accounts, beside themselves with rage. After what was rumoured to be a tense stand-off in the Palace of Five Winds between the Liege and the head of the embassy staff, the entire Asavean embassy was vacated. Those citizens of Faraden who once spoke of a close alliance with the Asaveans now carefully step away from their prior convictions, or at least keep very quiet about them. There are apparently rumblings about trade sanctions, but for now diplomatic relations remain open.

Just before the summer solstice, an address by the Liege of the Five Winds is circulated throughout Faraden. While it mostly speaks to national concerns, the Liege makes a point of commending Imperial legal authorities for their recent cooperation in the destruction of the Cinders. The Imperial Magistracy and militia are praised for their diligence and attentiveness, and much is made of the benefits of cooperation between Faraden and the Empire. Despite all attempts to the contrary, the position of the Liege remains strong and relations between Faraden and the Empire have never been better.
===Faith and Law===
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Orchard A.png|align=left|caption=Brother Geoffrey Orchard is a talented horticulturalist, and vigilant investigator, who now lives at Pickham Monastery in Upwold.|width=300}}</div>
* '''Mistress Karadragha asks for clarification relating to a new proscription'''
Ambassador Mina has raised the matter of faith and religion, and Mistress Karadragha responds by expressing Faraden concerns. According to Faraden merchants the Empire has made it a crime to bear a [[dedication]] or [[anointing]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Vengeance|Justice]]. This clearly refers to the recent proscription [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Blasphemy|recent proscription]] raised by ''Brother Geoffrey Orchard'' at the Winter Solstice.

Obviously there are other prescriptions that are likely of concern (such as [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_72|Judgement 72]] given that the Faraden faith believes that [[Ambition]], [[Wisdom]], and [[Vigilance]] are not useful spiritual qualities). Yet it is this matter on which Mistress Karadragha seeks clarification from the Ambassador.

Previously, sensible Faraden travellers have avoided legal issues while visiting the Empire by simply keeping their belief in the [[On Faraden faith|Five Flames]] to themselves. By not preaching the Faraden faith, they have not been held guilty of [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy|blasphemy]] or [[Religious_crime#Heresy|heresy]]. Now it seems that simply being dedicated, or bearing an anointing, will be a crime in Imperial territory. Is this understanding of the situation correct?

Speaking candidly, Mistress Karadragha expresses the concern that the Liege of the Five Winds and many of the priestly families that support them have spent a lot of time talking about the "new tolerance" of the Empire - that as long as they avoid single-minded pursuit of Justice they will be able to trade freely in the Empire. If this is no longer the case, the Court of Five Winds needs to know so that they can decide how best to proceed when encouraging their people to travel to the Empire.

==Iron Confederacy==
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
* '''They have recently taken both Cazar Straits in Feroz and Free Landing in Madruga from the Children of Wrecks
{{Nation|nation=The [[Iron Confederacy]]|port=[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]|status=Foreigner|ambassador=Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo}}
The lands of the Suranni people - the [[Iron Confederacy]] - lie directly over the Empire's south-western border. They do not welcome visitors from the Empire except in carefully selected enclaves such as the port of [[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]. While they are currently at peace with the Empire, they are by no means allies. Courted by both the Empire and the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]], the Dukes have been content to to play both interests off against each other. They made some concessions to the Liberty Pact by "redefining" their slaves as "serfs", but those who have actually visited Suranni lands say that the lives of the lowest class of their society have barely improved with this change in terminology.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorIronConfederacy.png|caption='''Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo''', Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy|align=right|width=300}}</div>
The Suranni recently moved military forces into the territory of [[Feroz]], attacking and defeating the Children of Wrecks and seizing the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]]. Most recently, they have [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize|done the same]] in [[Madruga]], having claimed [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]] as well. Both regions are made up of islands that are a traditional home of the [[corsair]] families for [[the Brass Coast]]. Their ambassador has been clear both that they intend to go further, having dealt with the Children of Wrecks, and that they have no intention of conceding the islands to the Empire.

The Suranni ambassador to the Empire is ''Baroness Katerine Lavasse of Meore'', who operates from the Tour Lavasse in Chaubrette, a territory unknown to Imperial citizens that apparently lies to the west of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]]. A noble [[naga]], she replaced the significantly more dogmatic Jeanne de Hibernat, a High Priestess of the Suranni god [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith, Maiden of the Forge]]. She has already indicated that she is very much more pragmatic than her predecessor and more interested in compromise. She still reports to the Dukes of the Iron Confederacy, however, and so her apparent goodwill toward the Empire cannot be relied upon.
===Diplomatic Considerations===
* '''The Iron Confederacy propose a meeting at the Autumn Equinox to discuss a potential treaty'''
* '''They would like the Empire to prohibit attempts to spread the Way to the Suranni'''
* '''They have no intention to return Free Landing and Cazar Straits, but it is clear they could be bought off, but it would require skilful negotiation'''
[[Gossamer_threads|Last season]] saw diplomatic approaches from the Iron Confederacy that included a request to [[Gossamer_threads#Rings_and_Wains|permit armies]] of the Iron Confederacy involved in their [[Gossamer_threads#The_Western_Hills|invasion]] of [[Reinos]] to resupply via western [[Segura]]. This request was ultimately refused. They also sought to purchase resources to protect the northernmost Suranni territory of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], which the Empire knows as Kalino, from an ongoing campaign of baleful [[curse|curses]]. In this, the Ambassador was more able to provide the requested assistance.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kobol.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Kobol the Warrior, Maiden of Battle|Kobol the Warrior]] is the uncompromising [[Suranni pantheon|Iron Confederacy god]] of warriors and battle.|align=right|width=200}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Evra.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith]] is the god of artisans and merchants in the Iron Confederacy.|align=right|width=200}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Dumon.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Dumon the Liar]] is the hated god of traitors, liars, and wizards whose followers strive to overthrow the divine order of the Iron Confederacy.|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Moving forward Ambassador Tethros has apparently been in negotiation with Baroness Katerine regarding a possible [[Ambassador#Treaty|treaty]]. Now that the Suranni have taken retribution against the Wreckers, and dealt with the Hand of Dumon hiding among them, they seem more inclined to discuss such matters. The intent is to send a few diplomats to Anvil during the Autumn Equinox, to see if such a treaty can be prepared, and the points raised by the Ambassador so far have proved very useful. Baroness Katerine asks that this discussion continue between them, with the Ambassador continuing to help refine the matters that will be under discussion.

The first proposal presented by the Imperial Ambassador is apparently an offer to outlaw the preaching of the Way in Suranni Lands. Baroness Katerine indicates that this isn't of interest to the Dukes, because any Imperial citizen found preaching the Way in their lands would be arrested and executed as blasphemers. However what the Dukes ''are'' interested in is for the Senate to make it illegal to preach the Way to Suranni citizens in the ''Empire''. Specifically, to make it illegal to target Suranni travellers when proselytising.

The Dukes are pleased to hear that imperial efforts to restore the bridges over the Scorrero [[The Oran operation|proceed apace]]. They are also open to the idea of establishing a formal trading enclave in the Empire; the town of Bramar in [[Feroz#Fontargenta|Fortargenta]] is well known to Iron Confederacy merchants and some kind of market and a temple for the priests of [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith]] would be appealing. Either that or dedicated markets in [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]], [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]], and [[Sarvos#Sarvos|Sarvos]] for use by ships travelling along the coast through the eastern islands.

Military cooperation against the [[Jotun]] has also been discussed, and Baroness Katerine understands the Ambassador's reticence to commit to anything. Candidly, the fact the Empire is fighting the barbarian orcs in Imperial territories already provides a measure of assistance. The Dukes are however prepared to agree that any Jotun land the Empire takes in Reinos is theirs to keep, without contest - provided the Empire is in turn prepared to offer the same recognition to the Iron Confederacy. Both nations, says the Baroness, would surely benefit from the extermination of the Lasambrian Hills bandits.

As to the matter of Free Landing and Cazar Straits, however, the Baroness is much less forthcoming. As the Dukes have said over and over, they plan to keep what they have taken from the Children of Wrecks. The Empire had every opportunity to destroy the pirates sheltering in those islands before the Suranni took charge of matters. Relinquishment of the islands is unlikely to be on the table during negotiations. In theory at least, it might be possible for the Empire to negotiate the Suranni withdrawing from Free Landing, but the Ambassador must be aware that the price for doing so is likely to be a great deal of money or truly eye-watering amounts of mithril, weirwood, and white granite. The islands of the Brass Coast represent significant economic and strategic benefits to the Suranni. They conquered the islands with the lives of their soldiers, and in the name of the [[Suranni_pantheon#Kobol_the_Warrior,_Maiden_of_Battle|Maiden of Battle]], and any concession to the Empire is going to need to reflect that.

===Hand of Dumon===
* '''Baroness Katerine concedes the Empire had no role in the recent curses on Arbonne
After due consideration, the Iron Confederacy accepts that the Empire had no role in the cursing of Arbonne, and that they will ensure the organisation puts down no roots within their borders. Even the Duke of Arbonne is apparently [[Gossamer_threads#Dumon_the_Liar|satisfied]] with the Ambassador's assurances this time, and the Suranni lawkeepers engaged in assisting the magistrates as part of the [[Ratify_Dumonist_Treaty|Dumonist treaty]] have tempered their zeal a little.

With the provision of [[ilium]] to help create a warding temple in Arbonne to combat the malignancy of the Hand of Dumon it ''seems'' the matter is put to rest for the moment. The civil service are at pains to point out that if any Hand of Dumon agents or sympathisers ''were'' active in Imperial politics, and their identities were exposed, then it could potentially prove quite embarrassing for the Ambassador and the Empire. Having access to the magistracy, even in a limited capacity, means that the Suranni lawkeepers are aware whenever someone is prosecuted for [[Criminalize Hand of Dumon|membership of the Hand of Dumon]]. Obviously there's no evidence of such an individual or conspiracy, but [[Vigilance]] is clear about the need to [[Vigilance#Guidance_on_the_Path|prepare for malice]], and to avoid becoming complacent.

===Marko Siwarsbairn===
* '''The well-regarded scholar has return to the Empire and is eager to return to work'''
Poor [[Historical_research#Marko_Siwarsbairn|Marko Siwarsbairn]]! Their visit to the Iron Confederacy to research military history took significantly longer than expected and arguably at various points they were in fact imprisoned by their Suranni hosts. Worse, when they were finally given leave to return to the Empire, their research complete, they were [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|attacked]] by the Hand of Dumon and narrowly avoided being sacrificed to the Suranni [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|God of Lies]] . Thanks to the intercession of the [[Minister of Historical Research]] '''Watt Lambrook''', and by all accounts the direct aid of Ambassador Thethros, the [[Wintermark]] scholar was safely rescued. They handed over the fruits of nearly a year of research and then... went straight back to work.

There has been some suggestion that Marko may wish to take a leave of absence to recover from their recent adventures, but the plucky scholar is having none of it. Given time to recover, they are of the opinion that if nothing else all this business has been ''exciting'' - even thought it may have been a waste of a year from a scholastic point of view it was never ''dull''. They're furious with the Iron Confederacy about the way their freedom to explore the subject of Suranni military history was so closely monitored, and how their words were edited and reviewed by the Baroness Katerine and her priests. They also want to be clear that when the document said "area of industry in Arbonne" for example, they meant "mithril mine for supplying armies", as just one example.

There has been some suggestion Baroness Katerine may be required to pay some kind of compensation. Instead the Suranni diplomat merely sends her best wishes to Marko, invites them to visit if ever they are in the vicinity of her holdings, and that given they are now back in the Empire she considers the matter closed. After all, it was Hand of Dumon agents ''in the Empire'' who attacked Marko, and while the Minister of Historical Research may have needed to intercede, her knights still did their job by ensuring the scholar returned to the bosom of the Empire alive. Marko's response involves quite an amount of coarse language.
<div style="float:right; width:300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]], is responsible for dealing with nations that do not have a dedicated ambassador.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Tsark==
* '''The people of Tsark have sent an adept to Occursion'''
* '''Adept Camilla invites letters on the subject of Prosperity'''
* '''Urizeni congregation will be able to take the lecture 'Discuss Prosperity with the Adepts of Tsark' after the Summer Solstice.'''
The Seeker of the Perfect World has written to Sage Kristoph, the Tsarkoi sage who has long been the primary diplomat of the Tsarkoi to the Empire, opening a conversation on the subject of Prosperity and the ways in which it might benefit Tsark. After a little deliberation, the Council of Sages appointed Camilla - as a senior adept - to be the primary representative to the Empire on this subject. They are - cautiously - interested in hearing more.

Camilla's parents were Urizeni who found a way to Tsark a generation ago and decided to stay, so she is a little familiar with the Empire and [[the Way]] as a result. However, the Tsarkoi do not make use of spiritual forces ''other'' than that of Peace - quite the contrary to their neighbours, the notoriously blasphemous and heretical Axou who make use of auras of every kind, and so she is not greatly familiar with the Seven Virtues of the Way except through her parent's stories.
{{WingedMessenger|address=Those wishing to write to Camilla on the subject of what Prosperity means to them should send a [[Call Winged Messenger|Winged Messenger]] to ''Adept Camilla, Garden of the Perfect World, Occursion, Zenith''}}
Camilla says that she intends to stay a little while at the Garden of the Perfect World. There are other adepts and sages who intend to visit in the season that follows: she has been asked to prepare the way. The Council of Sages believes, from what it understands of Prosperity, that the Virtue ''may'' be one that fits in the perfect world that the Tsarkoi seek - in accordance with their esoteric beliefs - to bring about. Camilla says that she will make herself available for any Imperial citizen who wishes to write to her explaining what Prosperity means to them. In addition, she and the other adepts chosen for this initiative would be delighted to meet with Urizeni who wish to share their perspective on Prosperity.

After the Summer Solstice, holders of an Urizeni congregation may take the lecture 'Discuss Prosperity with the Adepts of Tsark'. This will represent the priest taking themselves - and possibly their congregation - to Occursion to meet with Adept Camilla and her fellows, to discuss Prosperity and demonstrate the auras associated with it. As such, the congregation will not produce its normal complement of liao, as it is assumed it will be used in the creation of auras. However, Camilla has promised that in return she offers a portion of zaboravi. Obviously, any priest who takes this lecture will end up in the Prosperity assembly as a result at the subsequent summit.

==Maracossa==
{{WingedMessenger|address=Leonorada Rousseau'' currently resides in ''Trajadoz'', [[Madruga#Torres|Torres]], [[Madruga]] for anyone who wants to talk about Marracossan business}}
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza.jpg|caption='''Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza''', Senator for Madruga|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''The proscription against the Theist Heresy creates major problems for the Marracossans'''
* '''They are appealing to the Marracossa Sendito for help'''
Representatives of the [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadozi Marracossans]], [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#By_Roads_Both_Straight_and_Winding|came to Anvil]] for the Spring Equinox. They planned to meet with both the current [[Marracossa Sendito]] '''Karg i Estrico i Erigo''' and the former holder of the title, '''Hugo i Bamesh'''. By all accounts the meeting went well - the Marracossans returned to Trajadoz satisfied at least. Or rather... ''mostly'' satisfied. There is a great deal of concern among the former inhabitants of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] regarding the blanket criminalisation of their religion.

The [[judgement]] of [[proscription]] raised by '''Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament''' [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_114|defines]] the "Theist Heresy" as ''the claim that there are gods that seek dominance of, control over or communion with sapient spirits''." The Marracossans have never tried to hide their faith in their gods, and given that the town of Trajadoz has been [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Cede_Trajadoz|ceded]] to them by the [[Senate]] they are not concerned that they will need to fend off zealous magistrates. What they are very concerned about is their relationship with their neighbours.

The Marracossans have over the last few years formed bonds of friendship and business with Freeborn folk in [[Madruga#Torres|Torres]] in particular. Some of their number fought against the Grendel when they attempted to conquer Madruga, and indeed the Freeborn Assembly [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_160|recognised and praised]] them for their [[Courage]], [[Pride]], and [[Loyalty]]. Now they're concerned that anyone who trades with them, visits them, or even speaks to them might face prosecution. Worse, they are concerned that they might face prosecution if they leave the environs of Trajadoz - effectively trapping them in the town for the foreseeable future.

They're ''very'' keen for the Marracossa Sendito to advise them on the situation. This is in line with the [[Marracossa_Sendito#Responsibilities|responsibilities]] of the post - given that this proscription may represent a threat to Trajadoz and involves a request for representation. The civil service indicate that Karg i Estrico i Erigo may wish to seek the advice of the [[Imperial Consul]] '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' on this matter. While Karg is responsible for dealing with the Marracossans they are legally foreigners with whom the Empire does not have a recognised [[ambassador]], and any [[Ambassador#Treaty|treaties]] for example would need to be prepared by the Consuls office. The advice of the magistrates might also be valuable in what exactly this new heresy means for the Marracossans.

The Marracossans are ''also'' keen for their friends in Madruga to speak on their behalf. Can the Freeborn Assembly offer any reassurance, for example? Or should they begin preparing for a siege? Can they truly be considered heretics when they do not follow the Way, or even pretend to, but likewise have no interest in proselytising their own religion to others?

Seeds of discord

2026-07-21T22:38:55Z

Kirkbride:

[[Category:Wind of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Faraden]][[Category:Axos]][[Category:Iron Confederacy]][[Category:Tsark]]
<ic>Master Azad could barely contain his fury and outrage. Singua had been watched him pace back and forth in the reception area of the palace for several minutes, mentally composing a plan to deal with his inevitable outburst. She knew from reputation that he was capable of cold-blooded murder - never in Faraden of course - and yet at the same time to have her guards present would be to betray weakness. She could not afford to show fear to the Asavean ambassador.

"The Plenum demands that Faraden answer for the unprovoked judicial murder of one of their citizens!" Each word was clipped, almost spat out, as if they were fleeing the cage of his teeth against his will.

Mistress Karadragha made a show of picking up the scroll on the table before her and perusing it carefully, although she knew its contents by heart. Over the top of the parchment she could see Master Azad clenching his fists tight enough to whiten his knuckles. The Plenum would be looking for someone to blame for this disaster. Singua wished the investigators had managed to find a clear link between Master Azad and his proxy but he had been very careful to ensure that there was nothing to find. Not in Faraden, at least.

"I'm sorry, Master Azad, but the evidence is overwhelming. There is no doubt as to their guilt, and the punishment for their crime is appropriate. There is no case to answer - Justice has been served. I don't know what more you want me to say to you, or to your Plenum?"

Azad actually growled, and leant forward, putting his hands on the desk. Ambassador Karadragha was very pleased at that moment that the sturdy furniture between them.

"The evidence is fabricated! The Empire are liars, and enemies of the Plenum, and I demand that everything they have said be stricken from your records."

"You demand? Or your Plenum demands?" Mistress Karadragha looked up at him properly for the first time, favoured him with her cool attention. "Master Azad, Tommasso Triusti was providing money and support to the Cinders. An organisation the Liege of the Five Winds, with the support of the priestly families, had proscribed. There is no mistake here, and no error, and there is no doubt that the Imperial witnesses were telling the truth. You are ''very'' fortunate that the evidence also points to the fact that Trusti was working alone, without the knowledge of the Plenum. Or its ambassador. Because otherwise the Flames of Justice would have spread ''considerably'' farther."

The Asavean ambassador removed his hands from her desk and stood up ramrod straight.

"You have not heard the last of this." He hissed.

Mistress Karadragha inclined her head in calm acknowledgement.

"Of course, and I will convey the concerns of the Plenum to the Liege of the Five Winds, along with your assurance that you were unaware of what your countryman was about, and your condemnation of their actions. Assuming the Plenum ''does'' condemn their actions?"

Azad took a step forward, and Mistress Karadragha felt her heart beating like rain, but then the Asavean Ambassador regained control of himself. He spun on his heel, and strode out of her office, slamming the door behind him hard enough to raise splinters from the frame.

The Faraden diplomat relaxed back into her chair, and not for the first time considered what an absolute toerag the Asavean Ambassador was. She rang the small silver bell on her desk, to call for one of her aides. Tea would not be sufficient this time; it would take a stout mug of airag to calm her nerves. Perhaps more than one.</ic>
==Overview==
There are six great powers in the known world whose influence and reach rivals that of the Empire. There also innumerable lesser powers who do not have the might to shake the world, but who are nonetheless important to those with whom they share a border. The ambitions of these nearby nations are no less relevant to the Empire. Sometimes diplomatic relations require in-depth analysis; sometimes there is an opportunity to catch one's breath and let the drama move slowly towards the next crisis point.

There are [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to some of these nations - the [[Iron Confederacy|Suranni]], [[Axos]], the [[Thule]], and [[Faraden]] in particular. Other nations are dealt with by the [[Imperial Consul]]. Sometimes a neighbouring nation focuses on diplomacy with the Empire, and requires an in-depth discussion. Sometimes however there is less going on in a given season and diplomacy can be part of a wider, roundup. For example '''[[TBC]]''' covers nearly half a dozen of the orc nations that lie near the Empire.

Here we can read about several neighbouring nations to the Empire not covered in detail elsewhere - the [[#Axos|Axou]], the [[#Faraden|Faraden]], the [[#Iron Confederacy|Iron Confederacy]], and [[#Tsark|Tsark]], as well as the folk of [[#Marracossa|Marracossa]], the exiles of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] who live in [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Madruga]].
==Axos==
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Alikos Helio.jpg|caption=The Victorious Axis continue to go from strength to strength.|align=right|width=500}}</div>
* '''Axos remains allied to the Empire through treaty and through the Liberty Pact
* '''They have taken ownership of the region of Thornfen in Sarangrave
* '''The Imperial ambassador to Axos is Thanmir Hrafnar of Wintermark
Imperial relations with the [[Axos|Citadels of Axos]] remain steadily positive. Partly this is due to the [[Synod|Synod's]] work during the [[It_never_happened#Solokha|reclamation of Solokha]], partly due to the ongoing alliance between Axos and the Empire in [[Sarangrave]] which has seen them gain custody of the massive [[fortification]] known as the [[Sarangrave#Tower of the Skink|Tower of the Skink]]. A new status quo has been established in the tiny nation following the [[Victory_and_unity#Times_Change|upheaval]] that followed the rise of the ambitious ''Grand Ilarch Kyther''. A formal Grand Council guides the nation, and the [[A_better_future#Unified_Convocation|Unified Convocation]] works to bring Axos' disparate religious [[Bands#Sects|sects]] together in a similar way.

The ambassador cannot become complacent however; Axos is no less touchy about its independence that it has ever been, and relations could sour again very easily. For the moment, though, the Axos Ambassador to the Empire ''Ilarch Kario Skopos of Solokha'' remains cordial and sometimes even friendly. Skopos is a scion of an influential family from the [[Axos#Chambers of Ussyk|Chambers of Issyk]], who has renounced his ties to the citadel of his birth at the instruction of the Grand Council for as long as he holds the post. This is intended to signify neutrality in the politics of the citadel, to make him a worthier intermediary through which the Axou can deal with their allies in the Empire.
{{Nation|nation=[[Axos]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]] and [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Chambers of Issyk]]|ambassador='Shacklebreaker' Thanmir Hrafnar of [[Wintermark]]}}
===Claiming Thornfen===
* '''Axos has claimed the region of Thornfen in Sarangrave
* '''They have removed the former Druj subjects who lived there
* '''The Axou are preparing to rebuild the Tower of the Skink
Ambassador Skopos thanks his opposite number in the Empire for their timely warning relating to [[vallorn]], [[Druj]], and Imperial [[enchantment|enchantments]]. They wax lyrical about how this kind of cooperation between allies is a portent of the great things Axos and the Empire can achieve together when they put their minds to it. He even praises Imperial magicians - the [[Autumn magic]] laid on the territory made the task of removing the Druj subjects in Thornfen significantly easier. In return, the experts at the [[Axos#Halls_of_Maykop|Halls of Maykop]] have been considering how to address the dangers presented by Druj armies supported by the shambling dead Ambassador Hrafnar has spoken of.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Thane Thanmir Hrafnar.jpg|caption=Thane Thanmir Hrafnar is Ambassador to Axos.|align=left|width=300}}</div>
Over the last season however the Ipotavan forces in Sarangrave have been occupied by completing the task of claiming [[Sarangrave#Thornfen|Thornfen]]. Their efforts were hampered a little by fallout from the [[vallorn]] expansion, and the need to eject several thousand people from the marshes around the Tower of the Skink. As the Summer Solstice dawns, the region as a whole is now in Axou hands. Imperial armies are free to move through it, as per their [[Ratify_Axos_Treaty_Autumn_387YE#The_Treaty|treaty]] with the Empire, but the civil service note that the Axou could theoretically remove this privilege at any time.

As they [[Wise_and_measured#Sephals_and_Strategy|said they would]], the Axou army has exiled all the former subjects of the Druj they can find in the region. They have been channeled primarily into the [[Sarangrave#Whisperwood|Whisperwood]], with a few stragglers ending up in [[Sarangrave#Kroll|Kroll]]. The vast majority of these exiles are [[orc|orcs]] but there are also humans among their number - only those former slaves of the [[Druj]] who could prove a connection to Axos were allowed to remain. The Axou have by all accounts made only minimal efforts to identify any actual Druj among these former inhabitants of Thornfen - they have simply thrown ''everyone'' out. Or at least, everyone they could find. The army is unable to focus its full attention on the wilder places of the region, and there are a number of organised groups of Druj guerillas in Thornfen who were once part of the garrison of the Tower, who continue to harass Axou soldiers.

This means that there are now a significant number of people whose legal status is very unclear loose in the Sarangrave, without supplies, shelter, or in many cases, any real idea what is going on. That, however, is a problem for Urizen and the Empire, not the Axou.

Most Imperial citizens in the territory are busy engaged with the vallorn, or fighting off the Druj this season, but there are some reports that the Axou are moving large amounts of [[white granite]] into the region through the [[Sarangrave#Path_of_the_Eye|Path of the Eye]] - the pass that links [[the Mallum]] with Axos. They've also brought in a large number of labourers, recruited at apparently ruinous expense from all the citadels of the nation. While some are being garrisoned at the Tower, an equally large number have begun establishing camps in the vicinity of the wrecked city of Sephals - and it doesn't look as if they are planning to rebuild it. Indeed, it looks a lot more like they are planning to tear it apart to salvage building materials. Presumably after looting it.

===Armies of the Dead===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Garrison of Thornfen'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Senate Motion or Treaty</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Must explicitly give the garrison of Thornfen the right to move around Imperial Sarangrave and deal with threats to the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Allows the garrison of Thornfen to operate outside of that region anywhere except Nesustak Forest or Bendol</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Could be raised as part of a treaty</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Axou are struggling to establish a garrison at the Tower of the Skink'''
* '''Ilarch Skopos asks for the empire to donate up to 80 wains of mithril to help get the new Axou garrison established'''
* '''Before the garrison can protect Sarangrave it requires a Senate Motion granting it the explicit power to move around and fight threats'''
The Axou control the Tower of the Skink, and following negotiations with the [[Military Council]] are prepared to help protect Sarangrave from the threat of invasion or rebellion. With that in mind, Ilarch Skopos asks that the Senate make this arrangement clear with a [[Senate motion]]. If they are prepared to explicitly invite the Axou to defend Sarangrave (with the obvious current exceptions of Nesustak Forest and Bendol), then their garrison stands ready. Such a motion would provide the needed legal permission to go anywhere in the Imperial held regions of the territory and deal with threats to its people as they see fit. The freedom would apply to both the garrison of the Tower of the Skink and Axou armies - who would be free to move should they wish to in the same way Imperial armies can currently move through Thornfen. Without such a mandate to act, the garrison and the army will be restricted to defending Thornfen only.

As it stands the garrison would certainly protect Thornfen from the Empire if they ever tried to claim it, or to move armies through it without the permission of the Grand Ilarchs. The [[Civil Service|civil service]] advise that as well as the obvious benefits, the declaration requested by Ilarch Skopos will give Axou troops to move around Sarangrave, which could in theory present problems if relations with Axos were to sour. Ultimately the key issue is one of control. With the garrison under the control of the Axou it will ultimately be down to them what it does.

That might not be a problem for a while as the new Axou garrison at Thornfen is taking a while to establish itself. With vallorn and Druj alike in the territory this season, there has been no movement toward establishing the new. Ilarch Skopos informs Ambassador Thanmir that there is a recruitment drive taking place in Axos at the moment but that response has been slow. The Grand Ilarch of Ipotavo is frustrated by this state of affairs - it's not as if the Axou were unaware of this potential problem - and has demanded Ilarch Skopos find a solution.

The civil service estimate that it will take a minimum of two and a half years for the Axou garrison at the Tower of the Skink to reach its full strength, assuming there are no additional setbacks. Any season where there is fighting in Sarangrave will prevent the Axou from resupplying and could even see losses if the garrison is drawn into the fight; opposing forces prevent natural resupply even if the garrison is not directly involved.

The Axou could use either mithril or weirwood to increase the speed with which the garrison would establish itself, but the Grand Ilarchs' Council seems loath to contribute their own comparatively limited wains to do so. Ilarch Skopos does not come straight out and ''ask'' Ambassador Thanmir to see if the Empire can be convinced to provide such support, but the ''implication'' is very clear. If the Empire wants the garrison to be ready for battle on a meaningful time-scale they will need to provide the wains to the Axou.

===Lemuré===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Advice Regaring Lemuré'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Historical Research</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:'''
* Should clearly indicate it is taking advantage of the offer from the Halls of Maykop
* If the commission mentions specific aspects of dealing with lemuré that may help guide the research result
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 liao</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Produces a historical research document relating to lemuré and methods of dealing with them</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Summer Solstice 388YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tarquinius Ankarien.jpg|caption=Former Ambassador Tarquinius Ankarien (left) tirelessly campaigned to strengthen ties between the Empire and Axos.|align=left|width=300}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Hazelelponi.jpg|align=right|caption=Hazelelponi of the [[Highguard_groups#The_Shattered_Tower|Shattered Tower]] raised the final peerless kinship mandate.|width=300}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Watt of Lambrook.jpg|caption='''Watt of Lambrook''', Minister of Historical Research|align=left|width=300}}</div>
* '''The Ambassador has requested Axou assistance with matters relating to lemuré
* '''The Halls of Maykop are prepared to cooperate with historical research into the matter
While the Halls of Maykop are considering the matter of Druj armies supported by ghoulish horrors, Ilarch Skopos has also asked them for any guidance they can offer the [[High Exorcist]] '''Lord Belial de Courtenay Wyldrose''' in their work to combat one of the ''lemuré''. Ambassador Hafnir mentioned former Ambassador '''Tarquinius Ankarien''', and Ilarch Skopos has had some of his staff review the archives and found some information that his own predecessor ''Maxatios'' provided in the past. The libraries of Maykop are extensive, especially when it relates to ghosts and similar entities. Ilarch Skopos is confident that information exists; the challenge will be finding something specifically useful to the High Exorcist in their current endeavour.

After discussion with ''Grand Ilarch Keloparia'' of Maykop, an agreement has been reached (albeit a little grudgingly). It is the request to study with masters of ''necromantia'' that has apparently swung Keloparia's opinion in favour of the proposal. The High Exorcist of the Empire wanting aid from the magicians of Maykop, rather than the ''Convocation of Faith'' apparently bodes well. Ilarch Skopos cannot quite conceal the fact that the popularity of "Theodosia Azesos' experiment" seems to have stalled a little, to the amusement of some of her political opponents.

Regardless, the Halls will make some members of the research staff and one of the ''necromantia'' librarians available to host an Imperial scholar should they wish to visit after the Summer Solstice to investigate ''necromantia'' relating to the lemuré. Unfortunately, due to the faculty schedules, the Empire would need to take this offer up during the Summer Solstice - after that it would need to be rearranged and there is no guarantee that anyone would be available to assist such a scholarly endeavour. Ilarch Skopos notes that the faculty at Maykop will be expecting a member of the [[Historical_research#The_Department_of_Historical_Research|Department of Historical Research]]; the invitation sadly cannot be extended to other scholars (explicitly this means the [[Lepidean Librarian]] cannot commission this research).

In return, Maykop will expect 50 doses of [[liao]]. As the ambassador proposed, this would be an ideal gift for the Grand Ilarch and the faculty staff to thank them for their time. Not because they intend to use it for any religious purposes, Ilarch Skopos clarifies, but because it is very useful in certain ''necromantia'' rites. ('''OOC Notes:''' The character who commissions the research should ensure they have to 50 liao in their inventory after the event and e-mail {{plot}} so that we can remove it and confirm the opportunity).

The civil service note that if the commission opportunity is taken up, whoever commissions it could include some guidance as to what kinds of things the High Exorcist would find useful. This would serve as a guideline for the researchers, who would do their best to find materials that related to those specific queries. Obviously, though, the final report will depend as much on what the Axou of Maykop are prepared to spare as anything else. There's also a note of caution that it is possible this research may retread some of that already shared with former ambassador Tarquinius - and expectations should be managed appropriately.

===An Empty Bottle (Conjunction)===
* '''A company of Grendel are moving to attack a grounded Axou ship'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for ensuring that less than a dozen Grendel survive'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Trade between Axos and the Empire is flourishing, in no small part due to the efforts of the [[Quaymaster of the Elosian Docks]]. Unfortunately, ships sailing in and out of the docks mean more chance of a mishap leading to disaster. Two weeks before the solstice, an Axou trading vessel runs aground while on the return trip downstream. The crew and cargo are relatively safe and decidedly more sober than they were, and awaiting rescue. Unfortunately, a passing ship of the Grendel has landed close by, and its crew are moving towards the grounded Axou.

It is the responsibility of the incumbent [[Quaymaster of the Elosian Docks]], '''Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', to ensure that fewer than a dozen Grendel make it to the ship. If fewer than a dozen pirates survive the encounter, the Axou repel the Grendel. If a dozen or more survive, the Axou crew will be forced to abandon their cargo.

If the Axou survive, it will increase confidence in trading at the Elosian Docks, reducing costs for the Quaymaster in dragonbone to purchase white granite by roughly a tenth. If, however, the Grendel claim the cargo of the grounded ship, it will have the opposite effect, increasing costs in dragonbone by roughly a tenth.

==Faraden==
* '''Faraden is at peace with the Empire, and trades freely with Imperial citizens
* '''The Liege of Five Winds appears to favour the Empire, but there are powerful factions in Faraden that prefer closer ties with Asavea
* '''Faraden is in the process of disentangling itself from Asavean interests
{{Nation|nation=[[Faraden]]|port=[[Foreign ports#Caitun|Caitun]]|ambassador=Mina i Yashum i Riqueza of [[the Brass Coast]]|status=Foreigner}}
[[Faraden]] lies to the west of the Empire, across the Lasambrian Hills of [[Reinos]]. Trade is its lifeblood, but it is also a country of canny wizards, [[Courage|Courageous]] warriors, and [[Pride|Proud]] (albeit heretical) priests. They currently do not share a border with the Empire, lying beyond the [[Jotun]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that does not stop them sending their caravans to Imperial markets despite the high tariffs they must pay to pass through the lands between. Diplomatic relations between the Court of the Five Winds and the Imperial Senate are changeable - warm one moment, cool the next - but it has never come to open warfare. Right now Faraden is squeezed between two competing interests - the Empire on one side and the angry Plenum of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] on the other - and they must walk a knife-edge between the two powerful nations.

The Faraden ambassador to the Empire is ''Mistress Singua Karadragha''. Mistress Singua advises the Court of the Five Winds on all diplomatic matters, and speaks on their behalf to foreign ambassadors. Her attitude to the Empire appears to be cool but professional, and heavily informed by the wishes of the Liege and their court, who seek more opportunities to trade with the Empire.
===Notes of Recognition===
<div style="display:inline-block; float: right; width: 300px">{{CaptionedImage|file=Mina6596.jpg|caption='''Mina i Yashum i Riqueza''', Ambassador to Faraden|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''Mina i Yashum i Riqueza, former Azure Sutannir, is the new ambassador to Faraden
* '''The Liege of Five Winds sends a note of thanks to former Ambassador Ebenezer of the Marches
Kistress Karadragha begins by sending greetings and congratulations to the new [[Ambassador to Faraden|Ambassador]] '''Mina i Yashum i Riqueza'''. As former [[Azure Sutannir]], their name is already known to the Faraden diplomat. She also sends a note on behalf of the Liege of the Five Winds thanking the former Ambassador, '''Ebenezer''', for their work cementing the growing friendship between the two nations, along with wishes for a warm future full of Prosperity and Pride.

It is perhaps a shame that the first message to the new ambassador also contains confirmation that the Faraden will be signing a new peace treaty with the Jotun during the Summer Solstice. As discussed [[Five_flames#Peace_and_the_Jotun|previously]], without a major commitment from allies to support Faraden against the [[orc|orcs]] the nation is not prepared to go to war. Reading between the lines, it seems that the [[Iron Confederacy]] invasion of [[Reinos]] is not going the way the Court of Five Winds would have hoped.

In response to the polite request of the new ambassador, however, Mistress Karadragha explains that the main concern for the Faraden at this moment is that their merchants are able to travel freely to the Empire, and trade with Imperial citizens. Ensuring that they retain the ability to do so is of paramount importance.

===Ashes to Ashes===
* '''Faraden authorities have executed an Asavean citizen accused of funding the Cinders'''
* '''The Asaveans have closed their embassy in Faraden, but have not broken off diplomatic relations'''
* '''The Liege of the Five Winds has made a public speech commending Imperial law enforcement'''
For some weeks after the spring equinox Faraden is abuzz over an intersection of international diplomacy and high criminality. Tommasso Triusti, an Asavean citizen caught up in the [[Five_flames#Cinders_Extinguished|purge of the Cinders]], has been publicly executed for conspiracy to commit treason. It was an undignified affair, so the rumour goes. Unlike the Cinders, who met their deaths with dignity, their foreign enabler wept with fear and alternated between pleading for a reprieve and haranguing both the crowd and the executioner. The Faraden have strong opinions as to how condemned criminals ought to act, and this cowardly display has earned opprobrium from all corners of society.

The Asaveans are, by all accounts, beside themselves with rage. After what was rumoured to be a tense stand-off in the Palace of Five Winds between the Liege and the head of the embassy staff, the entire Asavean embassy was vacated. Those citizens of Faraden who once spoke of a close alliance with the Asaveans now carefully step away from their prior convictions, or at least keep very quiet about them. There are apparently rumblings about trade sanctions, but for now diplomatic relations remain open.

Just before the summer solstice, an address by the Liege of the Five Winds is circulated throughout Faraden. While it mostly speaks to national concerns, the Liege makes a point of commending Imperial legal authorities for their recent cooperation in the destruction of the Cinders. The Imperial Magistracy and militia are praised for their diligence and attentiveness, and much is made of the benefits of cooperation between Faraden and the Empire. Despite all attempts to the contrary, the position of the Liege remains strong and relations between Faraden and the Empire have never been better.
===Faith and Law===
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Orchard A.png|align=left|caption=Brother Geoffrey Orchard is a talented horticulturalist, and vigilant investigator, who now lives at Pickham Monastery in Upwold.|width=300}}</div>
* '''Mistress Karadragha asks for clarification relating to a new proscription'''
Ambassador Mina has raised the matter of faith and religion, and Mistress Karadragha responds by expressing Faraden concerns. According to Faraden merchants the Empire has made it a crime to bear a [[dedication]] or [[anointing]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Vengeance|Justice]]. This clearly refers to the recent proscription [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Blasphemy|recent proscription]] raised by ''Brother Geoffrey Orchard'' at the Winter Solstice.

Obviously there are other prescriptions that are likely of concern (such as [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_72|Judgement 72]] given that the Faraden faith believes that [[Ambition]], [[Wisdom]], and [[Vigilance]] are not useful spiritual qualities). Yet it is this matter on which Mistress Karadragha seeks clarification from the Ambassador.

Previously, sensible Faraden travellers have avoided legal issues while visiting the Empire by simply keeping their belief in the [[On Faraden faith|Five Flames]] to themselves. By not preaching the Faraden faith, they have not been held guilty of [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy|blasphemy]] or [[Religious_crime#Heresy|heresy]]. Now it seems that simply being dedicated, or bearing an anointing, will be a crime in Imperial territory. Is this understanding of the situation correct?

Speaking candidly, Mistress Karadragha expresses the concern that the Liege of the Five Winds and many of the priestly families that support them have spent a lot of time talking about the "new tolerance" of the Empire - that as long as they avoid single-minded pursuit of Justice they will be able to trade freely in the Empire. If this is no longer the case, the Court of Five Winds needs to know so that they can decide how best to proceed when encouraging their people to travel to the Empire.

==Iron Confederacy==
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
* '''They have recently taken both Cazar Straits in Feroz and Free Landing in Madruga from the Children of Wrecks
{{Nation|nation=The [[Iron Confederacy]]|port=[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]|status=Foreigner|ambassador=Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo}}
The lands of the Suranni people - the [[Iron Confederacy]] - lie directly over the Empire's south-western border. They do not welcome visitors from the Empire except in carefully selected enclaves such as the port of [[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]. While they are currently at peace with the Empire, they are by no means allies. Courted by both the Empire and the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]], the Dukes have been content to to play both interests off against each other. They made some concessions to the Liberty Pact by "redefining" their slaves as "serfs", but those who have actually visited Suranni lands say that the lives of the lowest class of their society have barely improved with this change in terminology.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorIronConfederacy.png|caption='''Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo''', Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy|align=right|width=300}}</div>
The Suranni recently moved military forces into the territory of [[Feroz]], attacking and defeating the Children of Wrecks and seizing the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]]. Most recently, they have [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize|done the same]] in [[Madruga]], having claimed [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]] as well. Both regions are made up of islands that are a traditional home of the [[corsair]] families for [[the Brass Coast]]. Their ambassador has been clear both that they intend to go further, having dealt with the Children of Wrecks, and that they have no intention of conceding the islands to the Empire.

The Suranni ambassador to the Empire is ''Baroness Katerine Lavasse of Meore'', who operates from the Tour Lavasse in Chaubrette, a territory unknown to Imperial citizens that apparently lies to the west of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]]. A noble [[naga]], she replaced the significantly more dogmatic Jeanne de Hibernat, a High Priestess of the Suranni god [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith, Maiden of the Forge]]. She has already indicated that she is very much more pragmatic than her predecessor and more interested in compromise. She still reports to the Dukes of the Iron Confederacy, however, and so her apparent goodwill toward the Empire cannot be relied upon.
===Diplomatic Considerations===
* '''The Iron Confederacy propose a meeting at the Autumn Equinox to discuss a potential treaty'''
* '''They would like the Empire to prohibit attempts to spread the Way to the Suranni'''
* '''They have no intention to return Free Landing and Cazar Straits, but it is clear they could be bought off, but it would require skilful negotiation'''
[[Gossamer_threads|Last season]] saw diplomatic approaches from the Iron Confederacy that included a request to [[Gossamer_threads#Rings_and_Wains|permit armies]] of the Iron Confederacy involved in their [[Gossamer_threads#The_Western_Hills|invasion]] of [[Reinos]] to resupply via western [[Segura]]. This request was ultimately refused. They also sought to purchase resources to protect the northernmost Suranni territory of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], which the Empire knows as Kalino, from an ongoing campaign of baleful [[curse|curses]]. In this, the Ambassador was more able to provide the requested assistance.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kobol.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Kobol the Warrior, Maiden of Battle|Kobol the Warrior]] is the uncompromising [[Suranni pantheon|Iron Confederacy god]] of warriors and battle.|align=right|width=200}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Evra.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith]] is the god of artisans and merchants in the Iron Confederacy.|align=right|width=200}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Dumon.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Dumon the Liar]] is the hated god of traitors, liars, and wizards whose followers strive to overthrow the divine order of the Iron Confederacy.|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Moving forward Ambassador Tethros has apparently been in negotiation with Baroness Katerine regarding a possible [[Ambassador#Treaty|treaty]]. Now that the Suranni have taken retribution against the Wreckers, and dealt with the Hand of Dumon hiding among them, they seem more inclined to discuss such matters. The intent is to send a few diplomats to Anvil during the Autumn Equinox, to see if such a treaty can be prepared, and the points raised by the Ambassador so far have proved very useful. Baroness Katerine asks that this discussion continue between them, with the Ambassador continuing to help refine the matters that will be under discussion.

The first proposal presented by the Imperial Ambassador is apparently an offer to outlaw the preaching of the Way in Suranni Lands. Baroness Katerine indicates that this isn't of interest to the Dukes, because any Imperial citizen found preaching the Way in their lands would be arrested and executed as blasphemers. However what the Dukes ''are'' interested in is for the Senate to make it illegal to preach the Way to Suranni citizens in the ''Empire''. Specifically, to make it illegal to target Suranni travellers when proselytising.

The Dukes are pleased to hear that imperial efforts to restore the bridges over the Scorrero [[The Oran operation|proceed apace]]. They are also open to the idea of establishing a formal trading enclave in the Empire; the town of Bramar in [[Feroz#Fontargenta|Fortargenta]] is well known to Iron Confederacy merchants and some kind of market and a temple for the priests of [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith]] would be appealing. Either that or dedicated markets in [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]], [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]], and [[Sarvos#Sarvos|Sarvos]] for use by ships travelling along the coast through the eastern islands.

Military cooperation against the [[Jotun]] has also been discussed, and Baroness Katerine understands the Ambassador's reticence to commit to anything. Candidly, the fact the Empire is fighting the barbarian orcs in Imperial territories already provides a measure of assistance. The Dukes are however prepared to agree that any Jotun land the Empire takes in Reinos is theirs to keep, without contest - provided the Empire is in turn prepared to offer the same recognition to the Iron Confederacy. Both nations, says the Baroness, would surely benefit from the extermination of the Lasambrian Hills bandits.

As to the matter of Free Landing and Cazar Straits, however, the Baroness is much less forthcoming. As the Dukes have said over and over, they plan to keep what they have taken from the Children of Wrecks. The Empire had every opportunity to destroy the pirates sheltering in those islands before the Suranni took charge of matters. Relinquishment of the islands is unlikely to be on the table during negotiations. In theory at least, it might be possible for the Empire to negotiate the Suranni withdrawing from Free Landing, but the Ambassador must be aware that the price for doing so is likely to be a great deal of money or truly eye-watering amounts of mithril, weirwood, and white granite. The islands of the Brass Coast represent significant economic and strategic benefits to the Suranni. They conquered the islands with the lives of their soldiers, and in the name of the [[Suranni_pantheon#Kobol_the_Warrior,_Maiden_of_Battle|Maiden of Battle]], and any concession to the Empire is going to need to reflect that.

===Hand of Dumon===
* '''Baroness Katerine concedes the Empire had no role in the recent curses on Arbonne
After due consideration, the Iron Confederacy accepts that the Empire had no role in the cursing of Arbonne, and that they will ensure the organisation puts down no roots within their borders. Even the Duke of Arbonne is apparently [[Gossamer_threads#Dumon_the_Liar|satisfied]] with the Ambassador's assurances this time, and the Suranni lawkeepers engaged in assisting the magistrates as part of the [[Ratify_Dumonist_Treaty|Dumonist treaty]] have tempered their zeal a little.

With the provision of [[ilium]] to help create a warding temple in Arbonne to combat the malignancy of the Hand of Dumon it ''seems'' the matter is put to rest for the moment. The civil service are at pains to point out that if any Hand of Dumon agents or sympathisers ''were'' active in Imperial politics, and their identities were exposed, then it could potentially prove quite embarrassing for the Ambassador and the Empire. Having access to the magistracy, even in a limited capacity, means that the Suranni lawkeepers are aware whenever someone is prosecuted for [[Criminalize Hand of Dumon|membership of the Hand of Dumon]]. Obviously there's no evidence of such an individual or conspiracy, but [[Vigilance]] is clear about the need to [[Vigilance#Guidance_on_the_Path|prepare for malice]], and to avoid becoming complacent.

===Marko Siwarsbairn===
* '''The well-regarded scholar has return to the Empire and is eager to return to work'''
Poor [[Historical_research#Marko_Siwarsbairn|Marko Siwarsbairn]]! Their visit to the Iron Confederacy to research military history took significantly longer than expected and arguably at various points they were in fact imprisoned by their Suranni hosts. Worse, when they were finally given leave to return to the Empire, their research complete, they were [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|attacked]] by the Hand of Dumon and narrowly avoided being sacrificed to the Suranni [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|God of Lies]] . Thanks to the intercession of the [[Minister of Historical Research]] '''Watt Lambrook''', and by all accounts the direct aid of Ambassador Thethros, the [[Wintermark]] scholar was safely rescued. They handed over the fruits of nearly a year of research and then... went straight back to work.

There has been some suggestion that Marko may wish to take a leave of absence to recover from their recent adventures, but the plucky scholar is having none of it. Given time to recover, they are of the opinion that if nothing else all this business has been ''exciting'' - even thought it may have been a waste of a year from a scholastic point of view it was never ''dull''. They're furious with the Iron Confederacy about the way their freedom to explore the subject of Suranni military history was so closely monitored, and how their words were edited and reviewed by the Baroness Katerine and her priests. They also want to be clear that when the document said "area of industry in Arbonne" for example, they meant "mithril mine for supplying armies", as just one example.

There has been some suggestion Baroness Katerine may be required to pay some kind of compensation. Instead the Suranni diplomat merely sends her best wishes to Marko, invites them to visit if ever they are in the vicinity of her holdings, and that given they are now back in the Empire she considers the matter closed. After all, it was Hand of Dumon agents ''in the Empire'' who attacked Marko, and while the Minister of Historical Research may have needed to intercede, her knights still did their job by ensuring the scholar returned to the bosom of the Empire alive. Marko's response involves quite an amount of coarse language.
<div style="float:right; width:300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]], is responsible for dealing with nations that do not have a dedicated ambassador.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Tsark==
* '''The people of Tsark have sent an adept to Occursion'''
* '''Adept Camilla invites letters on the subject of Prosperity'''
* '''Urizeni congregation will be able to take the lecture 'Discuss Prosperity with the Adepts of Tsark' after the Summer Solstice.'''
The Seeker of the Perfect World has written to Sage Kristoph, the Tsarkoi sage who has long been the primary diplomat of the Tsarkoi to the Empire, opening a conversation on the subject of Prosperity and the ways in which it might benefit Tsark. After a little deliberation, the Council of Sages appointed Camilla - as a senior adept - to be the primary representative to the Empire on this subject. They are - cautiously - interested in hearing more.

Camilla's parents were Urizeni who found a way to Tsark a generation ago and decided to stay, so she is a little familiar with the Empire and [[the Way]] as a result. However, the Tsarkoi do not make use of spiritual forces ''other'' than that of Peace - quite the contrary to their neighbours, the notoriously blasphemous and heretical Axou who make use of auras of every kind, and so she is not greatly familiar with the Seven Virtues of the Way except through her parent's stories.
{{WingedMessenger|address=Those wishing to write to Camilla on the subject of what Prosperity means to them should send a [[Call Winged Messenger|Winged Messenger]] to ''Adept Camilla, Garden of the Perfect World, Occursion, Zenith''}}
Camilla says that she intends to stay a little while at the Garden of the Perfect World. There are other adepts and sages who intend to visit in the season that follows: she has been asked to prepare the way. The Council of Sages believes, from what it understands of Prosperity, that the Virtue ''may'' be one that fits in the perfect world that the Tsarkoi seek - in accordance with their esoteric beliefs - to bring about. Camilla says that she will make herself available for any Imperial citizen who wishes to write to her explaining what Prosperity means to them. In addition, she and the other adepts chosen for this initiative would be delighted to meet with Urizeni who wish to share their perspective on Prosperity.

After the Summer Solstice, holders of an Urizeni congregation may take the lecture 'Discuss Prosperity with the Adepts of Tsark'. This will represent the priest taking themselves - and possibly their congregation - to Occursion to meet with Adept Camilla and her fellows, to discuss Prosperity and demonstrate the auras associated with it. As such, the congregation will not produce its normal complement of liao, as it is assumed it will be used in the creation of auras. However, Camilla has promised that in return she offers a portion of zaboravi. Obviously, any priest who takes this lecture will end up in the Prosperity assembly as a result at the subsequent summit.

==Maracossa==
{{WingedMessenger|address=Leonorada Rousseau'' currently resides in ''Trajadoz'', [[Madruga#Torres|Torres]], [[Madruga]] for anyone who wants to talk about Marracossan business}}
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza.jpg|caption='''Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza''', Senator for Madruga|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''The proscription against the Theist Heresy creates major problems for the Marracossans'''
* '''They are appealing to the Marracossa Sendito for help'''
Representatives of the [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadozi Marracossans]], [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#By_Roads_Both_Straight_and_Winding|came to Anvil]] for the Spring Equinox. They planned to meet with both the current [[Marracossa Sendito]] '''Karg i Estrico i Erigo''' and the former holder of the title, '''Hugo i Bamesh'''. By all accounts the meeting went well - the Marracossans returned to Trajadoz satisfied at least. Or rather... ''mostly'' satisfied. There is a great deal of concern among the former inhabitants of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] regarding the blanket criminalisation of their religion.

The [[judgement]] of [[proscription]] raised by '''Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament''' [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_114|defines]] the "Theist Heresy" as ''the claim that there are gods that seek dominance of, control over or communion with sapient spirits''." The Marracossans have never tried to hide their faith in their gods, and given that the town of Trajadoz has been [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Cede_Trajadoz|ceded]] to them by the [[Senate]] they are not concerned that they will need to fend off zealous magistrates. What they are very concerned about is their relationship with their neighbours.

The Marracossans have over the last few years formed bonds of friendship and business with Freeborn folk in [[Madruga#Torres|Torres]] in particular. Some of their number fought against the Grendel when they attempted to conquer Madruga, and indeed the Freeborn Assembly [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_160|recognised and praised]] them for their [[Courage]], [[Pride]], and [[Loyalty]]. Now they're concerned that anyone who trades with them, visits them, or even speaks to them might face prosecution. Worse, they are concerned that they might face prosecution if they leave the environs of Trajadoz - effectively trapping them in the town for the foreseeable future.

They're ''very'' keen for the Marracossa Sendito to advise them on the situation. This is in line with the [[Marracossa_Sendito#Responsibilities|responsibilities]] of the post - given that this proscription may represent a threat to Trajadoz and involves a request for representation. The civil service indicate that Karg i Estrico i Erigo may wish to seek the advice of the [[Imperial Consul]] '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' on this matter. While Karg is responsible for dealing with the Marracossans they are legally foreigners with whom the Empire does not have a recognised [[ambassador]], and any [[Ambassador#Treaty|treaties]] for example would need to be prepared by the Consuls office. The advice of the magistrates might also be valuable in what exactly this new heresy means for the Marracossans.

The Marracossans are ''also'' keen for their friends in Madruga to speak on their behalf. Can the Freeborn Assembly offer any reassurance, for example? Or should they begin preparing for a siege? Can they truly be considered heretics when they do not follow the Way, or even pretend to, but likewise have no interest in proselytising their own religion to others?

Pride in the Marches

2026-07-21T22:29:16Z

Kirkbride: /* Mitwold Triumph */

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]]
<ic>"So William Guildenstern's a folk hero now. Like Tom Drake and Jonah Gold and what have you."

Pike stared at his rod but it obstinately refused to move. He'd readily agreed to come with Bridge for the day but he was starting to regret that decision. Bridget Fisher had three fat yellow perch in her basket while his looked like he'd spent the morning straightening daisies. It was always the same when the two went fishing, but it was still grating on him. "Says Who?" he demanded tersely.

"Says the Assembly. You know all the priests and everything, down at Anvil."

Bridget Fisher had an unremittingly sunny disposition. It was one of the things everyone liked about her. It was one of the things Pike liked about her. Still it was easy to be sunny when you'd caught your tea before the first rays of sun had appeared. It was midday now and he had a nagging feeling he was going hungry tonight. "What sort of folk hero goes around putting on airs and graces?" he groused.

"Airs and graces? Have you ever met our William? He wouldn't know a grace if it kicked 'im in the 'ead."

"Well, why dun't he call himself Bill then?" Pike demanded. It was a cheap jibe, but it suited his mood right now. "A proper Marcher name. Should be Bill Guildenstern shouldn't it? Anyway - what's he dun to be so impressive? Why's he a folk hero?"

"Star fell on him. Apparently."

Pike never could catch fish, but he could sense an opening at fifty paces. Bridget was on weak ground, time to press the attack. "Right, so ''Bill'' Guildenstern is up there with ''Thomas'' Drake who killed Alderei the Bleeding Fair and ''Jonathan'' Gold who didn't let dying stop him fighting for the Mourn because a star fell on his head? A bottle of dark ale fell on Drew Miller's head last week when that wonky shelf he put up collapsed on him. They gonna make him a folk hero?"

"It was his chest I think. And Jonah ain't short for Jonathan so that doesn't work. You're being ratty and you know it. ''William'' Guildenstern has done loads of other stuff. Loads of stuff. Oh shit." Bridget jumped to grab her rod before she could explain exactly what the loads of stuff were. It was jerking around like a frit pig.

"Unbelievable." was all Pike could say as he watched his best friend reel in a fish the length of her forearm.

"Nah it's true. He has. He's dun loads of stuff." Bridget knew perfectly well what Pike was unhappy about but she seemed to genuinely want to talk about Guildenstern for some reason.

"Well they should have told us what he's done then shouldn't they? And it better not turn out to be a shopping list of titles he's had. It'd better be things he'd dun, not things he's been. The point of saying someone is a folk hero is so everyone knows what being a hero looks like. It's so they know who to look up to. Who to help. Who to emulate. For that we got to know what they done. Or what they're doing."

"Who to emulate? Pike Bailer! Are you putting on airs and graces?" Bridget grinned at her old friend. She never won their arguments, but a chance to needle him was too good to pass up.

"I'm serious Bridge! If there's an honest to goodness folk hero around the place then it's a bloody good idea to let everyone know about it. Folk need a bit of good news right now, with Jotun in the marshes and everything else. That's the sort of thing gets people fired up. But we ain't got owt to be fired up about, if they don't tell us what he's a folk hero for."

Bridget dropped the large yellow fish into the empty basket. "You'll have to take this one," she apologised, "there's no room in my basket. C'mon lets get back. I'll tell you what William Guildenstern has done, and you can tell me what you're gonna do to "emulate" that."

It was just bloody typical of Bridget Fisher. This was why everyone liked her. Pike contemplated saying no but this was one argument he was not going to win. Not against the hero of Pike's Pond.
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBMarches.jpg|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, a lot to be proud of but also a lot to worry about. The reward for a good job is more work, and if you want a job done give it to someone who's busy, as they say.

It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes new and especially old; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; and the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder who have apparently failed to get the message that ''now is not the time'', who are engaging in peculiarly targeted rowdiness that needs nipping in the bud before it spirals out of hand.

So let's start at the beginning, then, with the war in Mitwold...
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofMitwold.png|caption=The households of Mitwold engage in feuding and bitter rivalry.|title=Regions of Mitwold|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Mitwold Triumph==
* '''The Jotun have abandoned Mitwold in the face of the concerted counter-attack by the Empire'''
At the end of last year the [[Jotun]] barbarians [[Rose grow the rushes o'|broke into]] the territory of [[Mitwold]], seizing both [[Mitwold#Oddmire|Oddmire]] and [[Mitwold#Meade March|Meade March]] and pressing into [[Mitwold#The Meadows|The Meadows]]. At the end of last year, five Imperial armies fought to take back what had been conquered, culminating in the [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#The_Battle_of_Wayford|Battle of Wayford]] and the magical chaos that accompanied it. They reclaimed the Meadows, and drove the Lasambrian armies back across Meade March, but it was clear that the orcs intended to fight to keep what they had taken. Only the absence of the Jotun armies that had withdrawn north to [[Skallahn]] allowed the Empire their hard-fought victory. It was clear that if the Jotun contributed more of their forces to defend Mitwold - or to press east - Imperial armies would have a major fight on their hands.

The [[Military Council]] doubled down, with the [[Drakes]] (of course) at the forefront, supported by the [[Autumn Hammers]], the [[Bloodcloaks]], the [[Green Shield]], the [[Valiant Pegasus]], and the [[Golden Sun]]. More than ten thousand force of strength joined the Drakes, who also marched with the sungold banners of the [[Knights of Glory]] at their side, as did the Green Shield. With the [[fortification#garrison|garrison]] of [[Mitwold#Forte Fidelis|Forte Fidelis]] and the [[beater|beaters]] of [[the Marches]] beside them, they enacted a split strategy. While the Autumn Hammers and the Bloodcloaks took a defensive stance, the remaining four armies thrust into the heart of the Jotun held territory, seeking to force them back and reclaim the city of Meade and Odd's End.

They discovered the Lasambrian Jotun in full retreat. They had already abandoned their defence of Meade, and forced-marched westward back into Bregasland. From there, they swiftly withdrew south into [[Liathaven]] and there Imperial scouts lost track of them. The folk of the Marches might characterise their withdrawal as a cowardly rout, claiming they fled with their tails between their legs, but this is far from the truth. ''Abott Matilda'' of [[Old_ways#The_Ambition_of_Margaret_of_Meade|Becktunn Monastery]] told a different story. It was, she said, not as if the Lasambrians were running ''from'' something, but as if they were desperately running ''toward'' something. The most logical assumption is that news of the Iron Confederacy invasion of Reinos had reached them and they were returning to protect their homes.

Not every Jotun fled; some warbands stayed behind intentionally to seek out "a ruck" as the Marchers put it. Others were a little slow to get back across the borders with their ill-gotten loot. Yet the victory of the Empire was bought with a few skirmishes, rather than anything approaching a full-scale battle. On the one hand, few lives lost. A victory is a victory for the Marchers, land is land after-all - but some of their allies grumble that a triumph because the other side ran away is hardly heroic or glorious.
<gallery heights=175 mode="packed">
File:Drakes_Colour.png|link=388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Drakes
File:GoldenSun_Colour.png|link=388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Golden Sun
File:GreenShields_Colour.png|link=388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Green Shields
File:AutumnHammers colour.png|link=388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Autumn Hammers
File:BloodCloak Colour.png|link=388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Bloodcloaks
File:ValiantPegasus_Colour.png|link=388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Valiant Pegasus
</gallery>
===Tom Drake's Pride===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Walls and Statue'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Meade March, Mitwold</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, and 75 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Repairs the walls of Meade and creates a statue of Tom Drake in the heart of the city
* Improves the ''Drum Up Support'' order available to the Drakes
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year. Until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE, or until the general of the Drakes breaks their oath</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' This commission can be undertaken by the Mistress of Monuments despite the amount of white granite needed</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The people of Meade are Proud that their army and their allies have defeated the Jotun and liberated Meade'''
* '''An opportunity exists for the people of Meade to show their appreciation for the Drakes'''
* '''Investing in swift repair of the walls, and a statue of Tom Drake, will improve the ''Drum up Support'' order available to the Drakes'''
The ''Corazón'' and the Jotun champions between them have looted the heart and soul of the Marches, the city of Meade. They haven't gone out of their way to harm the city, or the people, because that isn't the Jotun way. But they haven't been shy about taking anything of value they can get their hands on. They raided the markets and the warehouses, tore open vaults, took any jewels they could find. They didn't go out of their way to steal old relics or documents - again not the Jotun way - and they've been scrupulous about avoiding anything that might be a burial ground. But the wealth of the city has been decimated. But not ruined.

The people of Meade are angry because they've been robbed and burgled, at swordpoint. But they are overjoyed to see the Imperial armies, with the Drakes marching before them. Tom Drake's beloved army, marching to free Meade from occupation, causes folk to put aside their cares and come out to line the walls and cheer, an inverse rough music. The soldiers that come to Meade, Marcher and otherwise, are showered not with rose petals but with food and drink and comfortable beds. They've lost almost everything valuable, but they've kept what is most precious to them - the Marcher spirit that no bandit can ever steal and no thief ever take from them.

The walls of Meade are broken in places, the gates destroyed, and the scars of the fight to defend the city from the Jotun are still visible. But walls, and gates, can be rebuilt, just as Prosperity can. Because the free people of the Marches can recover from any setback - especially when they have an example like Tom Drake's army to fill them with Pride. As in the Mournwold, as in Bregasland, the people of Mitwold take great Pride in the Loyalty shown them by the general of "their" army, and they are not shy about showing it.

The [[alder|alders]] of Meade don't come out and say it, but this is a great opportunity for the general of the Drakes to make a mark in history. Assessing the damage to the walls, it will require 16 wains of white granite to repair them; yet the alders also suggest that it is about time that someone built a proper statue commemorating the Drakes in Meade, or more specifically its founder Tom Drake. Nothing too extravagant - 9 wains ought to be enough to make a nice sculpture you could take the kiddies to see. The repairs and the statue represent a single [[commission]] that costs 25 white granite, and 75 crowns in labour, and would take three months to complete.

Despite the amount of white granite, the commission ''could'' be overseen by the [[Mistress of Monuments]], '''Ada Droon Drifting Bough'''. The actual statue of Tom Drake is the heart of the commission, the repairs to the city are vital but easily done once the materials are on hand. If the Mistress were to commission the repairs and the statue, the grateful folk of Meade would provide all the labour needed for the entire project - removing the requirement to provide any crowns.

Once the statue and repairs were complete, it would also stand as a monument to the Pride and Loyalty the people of the Marches feel towards their armies. As long as the statue stood, and remained in Imperial hands, the ''Drum Up Support'' order available to the Drakes would be significantly enhanced, providing a total of 500 natural resupply whenever they took the order in Marcher territory.

===The Taken Cup===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Appraise foot-the-ball league'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Appraisal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Appraise ways to implement some kind of foot-the-ball league</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Empire could appraise the creation of a foot-the-ball league to restore the sport's prestige'''
Meade was looted, but the Jotun had a purpose for that wealth beyond mere theft. Last season there was a report of a [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|treasure train]] full of stolen treasures from Meade and Wayford including [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Objective:_Recover_the_Trophy|Beater trophy]], a symbol of Marcher pride. It's doubtful the Lasambrians realised what they had - it was just a shiny cup to them - but it's struck to the heart of what foot-the-ball means to people of Mitwold (and Upwold, truth be told). The foot-the-ball season has been cut short; even with the Jotun gone there's less enthusiasm for the game than there has been in a while. "''We were robbed,''" as one of the Wayford [[alder|alders]] put it, "''and we can make more coin. But we can't make another Beater's cup.''"

Which is fine as a sentiment if it were ''true''. The Marchers certainly can't replace the history and legacy of the Beater's cup, but they surely could order a new trophy. Truth be told the old one was widely regarded as somewhat cheap and tawdry in appearance. But what can be done about the enthusiasm for the foot-the-ball? Would some kind of grand league help? The League have their great game after all, but the problem with that, as one Marcher points out, is that all that messing around doing politics is neither ''great'' nor a ''game''. Maybe an appraisal is the answer.
{{CaptionedImage|file=FjorknaeSymbol.png|align=right|width=250}}

==Worrisome Gullet==
* '''The Jotun gave the stolen loot as tribute to the Fjorknae orcs
* '''Orc warships have turned up in the Gullet
* '''They are interfering with Marcher and Wintermark fleets
While sporting matters are a concern for the Marches, a bigger concern are the reports of exactly what the Corazón ''did'' with the treasure. There weren't many eyewitnesses, but it seems that the reason they were [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Objective:_Return_the_Bounty_of_Meade|dragging it on a sled]] to make some formal gift to the folk of [[Sea_of_Snow#Fjorknae|Fjorknae]]. They met an honest-to-goodness fleet of ships at [[By_fountains,_by_fishes#Steward's_Landing|Steward's Landing]] and handed over the [[Technology#Runeboxes_and_Runebound_Chains|runebox]] full of stolen loot to what are described as "very nasty looking orcs in scale and chain". Marchers aren't great at judging such things in general, but the witnesses are confident that these orcs had ''ships'' and not ''boats''. Jotun with ships? Is such a thing even possible?

Not long before the Summer Solstice, it becomes clear that such a thing is indeed possible. Marcher captains engaged in [[Voyage#Raid_Kalsea's_Coastline|raiding Kalsea's coast]], and Winterfolk providing an [[Voyage#Escort_the_Fisherfolk_of_Westerhal|escort to the fisherfolk of Westerhal]] report fast moving ships with uniformly blood-red sails, crewed by armed and armoured orcs. Orcs who are definitely ''not'' Jotun thralls. The assumption is that they are Jotun, but the mere fact they seem to be at home on the sea raises questions as to whether they are true Jotun or represent some other sept the orcs have drawn on. They attack Marcher raiders, and engage with the Winterfolk escort, with clear enthusiasm for the fray that suggests a Jotun connection but they are utterly fearless of the sea of the Gullet. They even give the crews of captured or surrendered ships a version of "the Choice" - they can either lay down their weapons and become thralls, to be carried back to wherever the ships came from, or they can "fight the sea" - they're given a weapon and thrown overboard. These ships at least seem disinterested in making warriors of their defeated human foes, and there are disturbing reports of ''akhlut'' in the Gullet trailing behind the Fjorknae vessels that give the Winterfolk in particular pause.

Following the Summer Solstice, every Wintermark or Marcher fleet suffers a -2 rank penalty to ''Raid Kalsea's Coastline'', ''Escort the Fisherfolk of Westerhal'', or to [[fleet#trading|trade]] with the [[Faraden]] port of [[Foreign_ports#Caitun|Caitun]]. At the moment the presence of these ships is focused in the Gullet and the northern Sea of Snow - Marcher and Wintermark ships who sail fast and don't stop for anything are able to outrun the raiders.

These orcs on ships are also an unknown quality. A little over a year ago, the Senate commissioned [[Appraisal#Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] to look into ways that the [[Skallahn#The_Kongegőr|Kongegőr]] could [[A_bridge_too_far|be neutralized]]. The [[opportunity|opportunities]] she identified had a limited shelf-life anyway, but the addition of this new factor renders them moot. The attack on Skallahn brought the Empire within a hair's breadth of claiming [[Skallahn#Bjarkey|Bjarkey]], and the northern end of the Kongegőr. The Jotun are now awake to the very real threat of Imperial armies permanently separating their northern and southern Jarldoms.

Controlling either [[Skallahn#Bjarkey|Bjarkey]] or [[Hordalant#Alsterbo|Alsterbo]] is no longer a guarantee that the Kongegőr can be severed. It would certainly be possible to damage it, or to create a bottle-neck where Jotun forces trying to cross it would need to recover Imperial controlled region at either end, but to be sure of destroying the bridge permanently the Empire would need to control ''both'' ends. And if the Fjorknae are as comfortable fighting at sea as they appear to be, even that might not be enough.
===Fear the Unknown===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Appraise Fjorknae intelligence'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Appraisal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Appraise ways to find out more about the Fjorknae</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Appraise response in the Gullet'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Appraisal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Appraise ways to respond to the Fjorknae threat in the Gullet</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Empire knows nothing about the Fjorknae
* '''There are concerns that fighting on the Gullet will make the ''coral husk'' problem worse
The biggest obstacle to assessing the threat posed by the Fjorknae is that the Empire knows next to nothing about them. During their efforts to map the Sea of Snow, Imperial fleets did not cross the Blood Straits between Bryadvik and Fjorknae. The Empire knows there is what looks to be a huge island on the other side, and the assumption is that it is Jotun held. No landfall was made, although a handful of small settlements were visible from aboard ship, but they looked rough and primitive - crude buildings with slate walls and turf rooves. There were signs of industry, though, and vivid red flags that matched the colour of the ships' sails. Of course the banners also bore the image of a monstrous sea-beast of some kind, and so far that hasn't been seen on the ships in the Gullet.

There's also the worry raised by some of the gloomier sorts about the ''other'' problem the Gullet is having at the moment. Weird coral husks, that rise in the depths and come ashore to drag helpless victims into the surf. The Fjorknae are churning up the waters with violence and blood in a way that it has not been disturbed for centuries, if ever. Even the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] attempt to [[Harvest of infamy|destroy Meade]] was mostly fought on land or in the immediate vicinity of the city. Is it possible that the Fjorknae are going to rile up the coral horrors even more? They have been conspicuous by their absence for a little while now, and nobody is so addled by [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Hope|hope]] that they can imagine the problem has just... gone away.

At the moment, the Empire seems to have limited ability to find out more about what is going on in the Gullet and the threat the new orcs represent. A [[spy network]] or [[smugglers cove]] needs a certain proximity to the [[territory]] where it will be built that means Fjorknae is out of reach of the [[Imperial Spymaster]]. The [[Regario Dossier]] has no agents that could be assigned there - it's hard to imagine what they might look like - and the [[Shuttered Lantern]] would have no idea where to start.

The best suggestion as to what ''could'' be done is an appraisal. Either one to find out more about the Fjorknae, or to deal with the ships in the Gullet. These are two very different appraisals, in the opinion of the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticator's Office]], and to do ''both'' would take two appraisals.

The other possibility lies with [[archmage#plenipotenatiry|plenipotentiary]] either from an [[archmage]] or given Autumn is coming up, from the [[Stone Smith]]. The challenge would be working out which [[eternal]] to ask about the orcs of Fjorknae and the ships in the Gullet. In the past, the [[Archmage of Night]] might have been able to invoke the [[Lashonar#Caucus_Forum|Caucus Forum]] to arrange a meeting with someone from the island, but that option is [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Closed_Caucus_(Lashonar)|no longer available]]. Any other eternal will want something of value in exchange for their aid, assuming they have any to offer in the first place.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Haunted Fen.png|caption=Some regions of Bregasland are spookier than others.|align=right|width=400}}</div>

==Bregasland==
* '''The Jotun remain in Bregasland
* '''The Strong Reeds are lying low in the territory, building their strength for a counterattack
* '''The Grey Walkers are spreading through Grey Fens to the chagrin of the invading orcs
Last season saw serious fighting in [[Bregasland]], with the Empire ultimately victorious and [[Bregasland#Graven_Rock|Graven Rock]] recovered from the Jotun. In the wake of their victory, the Empire pulled their troops out. All save the [[Strong Reeds]], who have slipped back into the fens and the rushes, and now [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Strong_Reeds|lie low]] waiting for another opportunity to strike. The assumption must have been that the Jotun would immediately move to recover Gravenmarch, but in the end... they don't.

There are still Jotun armies here, but they are braced for further Imperial efforts to reclaim Bregasland. In the absence of such attacks, the barbarians simply continue to consolidate their hold over the marshy territory. Although in the process they encounter problems they themselves have created. At the Spring Equinox, news reached the [[Military Council]] of ''Sunne Astar'' and a [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|quixotic plan]] to drag one of the stones that make up the Ullsmere Rock [[The_Marches_hearth_magic#Dolmens|dolmen]] back to Hordalant to inspire the Howling Night. The Jotun achieved their plan, and as near as the Strong Reeds can tell, the left leg of the dolmen has already left Bregasland and is presumably being installed in the ''kirkje'' of the Howling Night.
{{CaptionedImage|file=StrongReeds_Colour.png|align=right|width=300}}
===Horror at Ullsmere Rock===
* '''The Grey Walkers haunt Grey Fens and seek to drive out all trespassers
* '''They are treating the Jotun as trespassers
* '''Unfortunately they are also treating everyone ''else'' as trespassers
What's unfortunate is that what it has left in its wake are a large number of [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Objective:_Dismiss_the_Grey_Walkers|Grey Walkers]]. Shadow figures, clearly Marchers, wearing garb common in the fens hundreds of year ago, are draped in the tatters of funeral bindings. They slowly and silently seek out "trespassers" and drive them away. Hitting them with weapons causes them to dissipate... but a few minutes later they simple coalesce again a short distance away. They can be [[exorcism|exorcised]] individually, but there are a ''lot'' of them. Worse, some of them are clad for battle, deliver potent [[curse|curses]], and are much harder to deal with than the "lesser" spirits.

The good news is that right now, they are causing serious issues for the Jotun in [[Bregasland#Grey Fen|Grey Fen]]. The entire region has become [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] as the Grey Walkers have spread. The Jotun are no stranger to ghosts, but the ability of their warriors and ''ghodi'' to deal with them is significantly lower than that of the Empire. The Grey Walkers are treating the orcs as intruders and trespassers, and slowly eroding the barbarian's control over the entire region. They don't seem to be extending beyond the Grey Fens themselves, at least, but that covers a very large area of marsh. There are Marcher households there, and they are likewise reporting harassment by these spectral creatures. True to form, the Jotun are actively ''protecting'' the households - just as they would any other thralls - but it's clear that they're struggling to keep a firm grasp on the Fens.
{{CaptionedImage|file=trilithon.png|align=right|width=250}}
===Get Off My Fen===
* '''The Jotun are slowly losing their grip on Grey Fen
* '''While this is causing problems for the Jotun, it will also be a problem for the Empire should they retake Bregasland
Something clearly needs to be done, but Grey Fens is currently a Jotun problem. If the Empire retakes Bregasland, however, it's going to become a Marcher problem pretty quickly. While Grey Fens remains under Jotun control, the Grey Walkers are a tenth of the way towards taking the region themselves. What this will mean is impossible to say - but if the region does fall under control of these spectral walkers the one thing it ''won't'' be is under Imperial control, making it that much harder for anyone to control the territory.

There is an effective force of 1,000 strength in Grey Fens - each season it will attempt to take control of the region. ''Any'' army that issues an appropriate [[Army_orders#Defending|defending]] order in the territory can prevent the ghosts gaining any headway, and an attacking order will drive the ghosts back and reassert control over the region (as long as it achieves sufficient victory points). But while the ''haunted'' quality remains, the ghosts will simply come back next season, and the season after, and keep trying to drive everyone out of Grey Fens. They don't take casualties (although they do inflict them), and anyone actively trying to stop them claiming Grey Fens will not be able to resupply that season.

Notably, the presence of these Grey Walkers is even messing with the magical elements of the territory. For some reason, any magical ward created in Grey Fens - [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] for example - will not impede the ghosts at all. They will continue to slowly but inexorably try to usurp control of the region, even as the enchantment has its normal effects for everyone else.

==Pride and Politics==
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=William Guildenstern.jpg|caption='''William Guildenstern''', General of the Drakes|align=left|width=400}}</div>
* '''Two judgements of the Marcher assembly related to Pride in a way that resonates with the Marchers
Recently the Marcher Assembly passed two big judgements. The first was about Pride, celebrating a folk hero. It's received a broad welcome across the nation, a bit of good news in dark times. But people can't be Proud of someone unless they know what they're Proud of them ''for''. So they want to know what this folk hero has done to be singled out like that.

The second judgement is also a matter of Pride. Nearly two years ago now the [[Pride]] Assembly [[recognition|recognised]] the leaders of [[the Ore Hills Rebellion]] and then the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_5|General Assembly narrowly agreed]]. Now it's down to the Pride Assembly to see if they want to consecrate Rebellion's Ridge the new monument they've just built to remember folks by.

If that happens, it will be a lit match in a dry field. All the arguments about just who should be appointing senators will come boiling back to the surface.
===Holding Out For a Hero===
{{SOP|statement=William Guildenstern was recognised as a Marcher Folk Hero in 384YE. As my cousin Pipit Boon called out to our people in 385YE; "Let us sing his story for generations to come, across our territories." There is no better time than these - our homes under siege and our territories dividing - to draw Marchers to great Marcher deeds. As a Folk Hero walks among us as General of the Drakes, remember: Jonah Gold made weapons so fierce it turned a war's tide. Odd of Odd's End drained the Oddmire against the Marshwalker threat. Tom Drake struck down Alderei the Fair. William Guildenstern caught a falling star in his chest. All are Marchers, all fought our battles, all did deeds of great renown, all had rivals who would see them fail, and all are remembered in song.|by=Jedediah Boon, Marcher National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 152-20|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
* '''William Guildenstern has been recognised as a folk hero by the Marcher Assembly'''
* '''The Marches are eager to hear what act or acts he has done to be inspired by'''
* '''It is unclear what being recognised as a folk hero will actually ''do'', it will depend on what the act is'''
Most Marchers hold three things close to them: a favourite [[proverbs|proverb]], a patch of land they call home, and someone they look up to. Proverbs are important and an apt demonstration of [[Wisdom]]; they allow an important idea to be communicated with as few words as possible. A patch of land to call home is the foundation of every [[Marcher household]], the starting place for [[Loyalty]]. But someone to look up to can be important too; it lets people take [[Pride]] in the actions of their fellow Marchers, and inspires them to do great deeds themselves.

Last season, the Marcher Assembly upheld a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_81|judgement]] raised by '''Jedediah Boon''' which echoed the [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_115|call]] from '''Pipit Boon''' that '''William Guildenstern''', General of the [[Drakes]] and former Senator for [[Mournwold]], was a folk hero. The statement of principle called out several other folk heroes from the history of the Marches and the inspirational acts they had done. People are keen to hear more about this folk hero - and Friar Alyn asks that the Marcher Assembly use the coming summit to recognise the thing William Guildenstern has done that is most inspiring. Something that has been done that the Marchers can be inspired by and rally behind. When tales of Jonah Gold were spread of making weapons, it inspired the blacksmiths to focus on making blades for soldiers; when stories of Odd of Odd's End were spread, it led to beaters tracking marshwalkers and protecting settlements from them. If Guildenstern has done something that people be Proud of and rally behind it just [[opportunity|do some good]].
<quote by='Friar Alyn of Hay'>Inspirations are a lot like wheat. You need to harvest them when you can, and be aware that they might turn rotten.</quote>
Some nations have annals or chronicles to record their inspirations. Some assemblies have rolls or walls to mark theirs. ''Friar Alyn of Hay'' pours scorn on that idea. Marchers don't need to keep records of their folk heroes - what's the bloody point? If you have to write their name down to know who they are, then they're not much of a bloody hero are they? In the opinion of the friar, the best inspirations are fleeting. They represent the zeitgeist of the Marches at the height of summer, when the sun is high and there is time to have the proper chats without worrying about the weather.
===Rebellion's Ridge===
<div {{float}}>
{{SOP|statement=Three years ago, Meri stated on my behalf that we knew the importance of all Marchers working the land, that the Nation must consider the plight simmering over Mourn hillsides. The Pride Assembly agreed. The miners of the Mourn have worked their land for us. They have battled the Jotun, fought off the Howling Bear. They raised rebellions against tyranny twice, were the last ones standing against recent invaders. They work tirelessly to supply our armies, to build our Great Works, braving the Singing Caves and tearing its bounty from enemy hands. They have stood with our Nation since Marcher boots first met Mourn soil. So we too stand with them - we will not turn our backs another year not take their Loyalty to the Marchers, the Pride in their work for granted. We recognise their right to a voice in the leadership of the Mournwold, where the ore runs deep and so many of us have fought together, shoulder to shoulder.|by=Jedediah Boon, Marcher National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 208-22|when=Autumn 387YE|size=small}}</div>
* '''Rebellion's Ridge has been completed in the Mournwold'''
* '''A writ of consecration for the Leaders of the Ore Hills Rebellion on the great work would have consequences'''
* '''It would breathe new life into old arguments, long since buried, about who runs the Mournwold'''
During the Autumn Equinox 387YE, '''Alfred Aewulfson-Boon''', as the [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]], commissioned the [[Construct_Rebellion%27s_Ridge|construction]] of Rebellion's Ridge. A [[great work]] in [[Mournwold#Ore Hills|Ore Hills]] dedicated to the [[Known_exemplars#Leaders_of_the_Ore_Hills_Rebellion|leaders of the Ore Hills Rebellion]]. These exemplars of [[Pride]] were [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_5|recognised]] during the Winter Solstice 386YE as a group, in much the same way as [[the Marked]]. The exemplars were instrumental in [[the Ore Hills Rebellion|the Ore Hills Uprising]], and were identified as ringleaders and executed by the magistrates for their role in inciting, and in most cases participating in, the violence that marred Mournwold.

Now, [[Mournwold#Rebellion's_Ridge|Rebellion's Ridge]] stands completed. The finishing touches have been made, and the [[congregation|congregations]] of the Mourn will receive their first doses of [[liao]] at the Autumn Equinox. But what next? During the Autumn Equinox 387YE, the Marcher Assembly voted to uphold a [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_98|judgement]] raised by '''Jedediah Boon''' which drew attention to the plight of the miners of the Mourn.
<div {{float}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=The Versatile Pickaxe.jpg|align=left|caption=Resentment between miners and farmers in Mournwold had been simmering for almost three centuries, until it finally kicked off in 326YE.|width=500}}</div>
If the Assembly chooses to pass a [[writ of consecration]] for Rebellion's Ridge, then it would inevitably reopen those old wounds. Miners work every bit as hard as farmers, nobody denies that, but they have no say in who speaks for them. That's what the Ore Hills Rebellion was all about. Power, who has it, and who doesn't. The miners demanded that the yeofolk share their power. When the yeofolk refused to let their power be diluted and their traditions lost, it ultimately resulted in bloodshed.

Folks are full of fond memories for the Rebellion now, but it was the most bitter fight imaginable at the time. Any move to consecrate Rebellion's Ridge will force the Mournwold to reckon with that struggle. You simply cannot draw inspiration from a bunch of Marchers who died fighting for something they believed in, without making everyone ask ''what were they fighting for?''. It'll fire up every single mine owner in the Mournwold with fresh demands for a change in how the the territory appoints its senator. And it won't just be the yeofolk who are worried - it'll make every Marcher who thinks traditions are important, worried about where all this is going.

Seriously contemplating a change in how the Mournwold elects its senator is ''absolutely guaranteed'' to open a sack full of angry kittens.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Loyalty.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Pride.png|align=right|width=200}}
</div>

==Loyalty and Heresy==
{{SOP|statement=The scars of Whittle run deep. A people massacred due to zealotry. The Marchers know too well the risks of following your traditions. While the Marchers have no intent of undermining the Synod’s spiritual authority, the fact of the matter remains; A Marcher, A Marcher. Should the Synod proscribe the beliefs of the Marcher Orcs as heretical, the Marches as a whole will defend their neighbours as they would any other Marcher unduly persecuted. To echo the words of the First Empress: “You will take all of us, or none of us.” The Synod may make its choice.|by=Statement of Principle, Brother Luke, Marcher Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 146-50|when=Winter Solstice 388YE|size=small}}
* '''The priests of the Marches preach of Pride, inspiring both human and orc
* '''The folk of the Marches are mostly united - the Marcher orcs are Marchers
And talking of lit matches... At the Spring Equinox, the Marcher Assembly voted to uphold a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_13|judgement]] raised by '''Brother Luke''' with a [[greater majority]]. It called on the Marches to defend the [[Mournwold Orcs|Marcher orcs]] if things came to a head with the [[Synod]]. After the Summer Solstice, inspired by the statement, more than half the [[congregation|congregations]] in the Marches preached the importance of supporting the Marcher Orcs, and that any attack on them was the same as an attack on anyone else in the nation. "''Pride in small things,''" as the saying goes. The congregations who took this action used their liao to create suitable [[aura|auras]], but in return received gifts of recognition and support from Marcher Orcs and their allies.

It's been less direct than a mandate, but it's had the desired effect. If there was any doubt as to whether the Marcher Orcs are Marchers or not, it's been dispelled. If the Empire sends anyone to attack the Marcher Orcs for their beliefs, whether that be armies or magistrates, the folk of the Marches will resist. The argument that their beliefs mark them as heretics butters no mustard in Mournwold or elsewhere. The nation ''knew'' they believed in reincarnation when they embraced them; the [[egregore]] ''knew'' their beliefs were at odds with doctrine when they recognised them as Marchers. They are Marcher folk, and the general consensus in the Marches is that their belief in reincarnation is not a problem in a nation that firmly believes humans can be reincarnated as trees, or vermin.

When the Generals of the Marches swore their oaths to protect their territories, there was no equivocation about whether they would protect some Marchers and not others. If the Synod moves against the Marcher Orcs, the Marches will resist. With weapons to protect those who won't take them up themselves, if need be. And they will expect the generals to honour their oaths, and if need be fight the armies of the Empire to defend an attack against their own.

Not everyone is on board, but those who are not have the good sense to keep quiet about it. When challenged to explain how the beliefs of the Marcher Orcs can be reconciled with doctrine, one pugnacious Abbott turns the question around, and demands to know why nobody ever asks how Doctrine can be reconciled with the beliefs of the Marcher orcs? The ''only'' thing that brands the Marcher Orcs as heretics is the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Howling_Abyss|Doctrine of the Howling Abyss]] that was created less than a decade ago based solely on the spiritual beliefs of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] - and a belief that is challenged by septs of orcs all over the world.
===The Tom Drake Revelation===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Hazelelponi.jpg|align=right|caption=Hazelelponi of the [[Highguard_groups#The_Shattered_Tower|Shattered Tower]] is the controversial [[Lepidean Librarian]] who commissioned the investigation into the life of Tom Drake.|width=400}}</div>
* '''Recent revelations regarding Tom Drake incline the folk of the Marches to view the state bodies of the Empire with scepticism
* '''Inspired by Pride and Loyalty, the human Marchers will defend the orc Marchers
The Marchers as a whole have no patience for people who give themselves airs and graces, but they take a quiet Pride in a number of folk from [[The Marches history|history]]. Among those they are proudest of is [[Life of Tom Drake|Tom Drake]], the original general of the Drakes who helped put the Military Council together. Recently, the [[Lepidean Librarian]] undertook an examination of [[Life of Tom Drake|Tom's life]], and the truths contained within were [[Life_of_Tom_Drake#Unacceptable_History|at odds]] with the popular historical version. Tom Drake fought ''against'' Brigit of Dourfell, and led the rebels. He was rightly recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]], always willing to show it to those who deserved it, to the Marches, and to its people.

It's been quiet, but these historical revelations have spread quietly across the Marches and increased Marcher scepticism of what some see as "Imperial excesses". It's nothing like as dramatic as the problems in [[Bregasland]] in the wake of the Fishers - but there is a quiet, grass-roots belief that the Marcher dislike of people putting themselves above their peers extends to ''everyone''. Including, arguably, the Senate and the Synod. When push comes to shove, they ask themselves what Tom Drake would do, and the answer is usually some variation of "stand up and be counted", "be Proud and Loyal", and "tell the Empire to go... take itself away... if it comes to it."

===What This Means===
* '''The Empire risks a second Cousin's War if they persecute the Marcher Orcs for their beliefs
With these two key factors in mind, the only predictable outcome is that Marchers will defend their orc citizens against the Synod, the magistrates, or Imperial armies. What form this will take is not clear, it will depend on exactly what is tried. There are tens of thousands of Marcher orcs. Their willingness to pitch in, the fact they are never slow to contribute when there's a big project on, and their sheer ''enthusiasm'' for the Marches has won them a lot of friends even before the priests of the Marches spoke of the Pride of having them among their number. Then there's the lessons of Tom Drake, exemplar of Loyalty, who would ''never'' stand by and let the Empire declare war on his neighbours (or at least that's the current feeling).

This is obviously a problem. For an Imperial nation to reject the rule of law in this fashion - the Synod has the power to declare something heresy, which is a crime. The magistrates are expected to deal with criminals under the law.

What seems clear is that any move to condemn the Marcher Orcs as heretics is likely to trigger a conflict along the lines of the [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|Cousin's War]], albeit with most of the Marches lining up against the rest of the Empire, and with those Marchers who regularly visit [[Anvil]] to represent their nation potentially caught in the middle.
===Pragmatism===
* '''Some Mournwold priests have proposed a "solution" to the problem
So far only one positive proposal has come out, and that's from the Marcher Orc spiritual leader and a couple of his old friends among the priests of the Mournwold. He proposes that while the Synod determines what is a crime, it's the Senate and the magistrates who decide what the punishment is. There are basically two punishments - death and fines. "So fine us," say the Mournwold priests. "Fine the orcs for their heretical beliefs. How about 5 thrones a season that the Marcher Orcs continue to believe in reincarnation, and then maybe we can all get back on with sorting the harvest?" Obviously this is an outrage and the magistrates will do their nut. But a Senate motion to this effect would see 5 thrones a season into the Imperial treasury, and its likely the Marcher Orcs might go higher if they had to especially if their human neighbours pitched in.

While this proposal seem ludicrous, it does highlight at least one potential avenue to try and deal with the problem represented by tens of thousands of Marchers that the Synod seem to deem to be heretics. Ultimately, the Synod does not operate in isolation within the Empire. Nobody is suggesting that the Senate alone can solve this problem, but at the end of the day it is the Senate that has the power to define the laws, and guide the magistrates as to the punishments that arise when those laws are broken. Perhaps some compromise can be reached?

==Rowdy Bandits (Conjunctions)==
* '''The scions of Red Walder are causing trouble in Mitwold
* '''Jyll Longleys is interfering with the Maiden Stone
* '''Dusty Cobb leads a gang to burn the Golden Fields of Hay
And finally ... the [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Objective:_Kill_Red_Walder's_Descendants|scions of Red Walder]] are following in their forbear's footsteps and causing a brace of difficulties in Mitwold. Armed by Stephen of Sarcobe (and many Marchers spit when they say his name these days), there's rumours doing the rounds that they've ''also'' been empowered by the terrible Jack-in-Chains, the horror buried at the bottom of a well near [[Mitwold#Wayford|Wayford]]. Probably expecting the Empire to be busy fighting Marcher armies, two of them have collected rowdy mobs around themselves and set about causing trouble.

Something needs to be done, and fortunately the [[Sentinel Gate]] provides an opportunity for response to immediate problems. Frankly, it might be a bit of a relief to have problems that can be dealt with directly by sticking the boot into some wrong'uns.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Glistering.jpg|caption=The Champion of Prosperity fights for virtue.|align=right|width=350}}
===Apples First (Mitwold)===
* '''A gaggle of rowdy Marcher rebels are travelling to curse the Maiden Stone'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Champion of Prosperity'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for stopping Jyll Longleys from cursing the Maiden Stone'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
''Jyll Longleys'', daughter of the wicked old bandit Red Walder and former flax farmer, has been spotted [[Things_go_awry#Mitwold|once again]] in Mitwold. This time, in the [[Mitwold#Maiden Downs|Maiden Downs]], moving towards the Maiden Stone with fire in her eyes and plagued with tremendously bad luck, if rumours are to be believed. Jyll and her unruly band are travelling with purpose and are - according to hearsay, rumour, and the best guesses - going to "''fuck up''" the Maiden Stone. Whether this is by some unknown curse, malicious use of hearth magic, or they're just going to find some hammers on the way there, it will be bad if they aren't stopped.

The [[Champion of Prosperity]], '''Tom Appleseed''', is responsible for stopping Jyll Longleys before they reach the Maiden Stone. If they cannot be stopped, then it will have, at minimum, consequences for farms across the territory. The farms will be able to cope, but it will eat up the profits from the [[Keeper of the Breadbasket|Breadbasket]] in the territory for at least six months.
{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenFields.jpg|caption=The golden fields of Hay are watched over by a [[#The Silent Giant|Silent Giant]].|align=right|width=350}}
===The Right Thing (Mitwold)===
* '''A gaggle of rowdy Marcher rebels are travelling to burn the Golden Fields of Hay'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Keeper of the Golden Fields'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for stopping Dusty Cobb from setting Golden Fields alight'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
''Dusty Cobb'', the old soldier turned monk who has once again taken up the mantle of bandit, has been spotted in the [[Mitwold#Golden_Downs|Golden Downs]], travelling towards Hay and its golden fields. Though frustrated by bad luck, the shriver of Red Walder has gathered a gaggle of Marcher rebels to them and is travelling with the intent of setting the Golden Fields of Hay alight with good old-fashioned flint and tinder.

The [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]], '''Nicolas Reaper''', is responsible for stopping Dusty Cobb from setting the Golden Fields alight. If they are not stopped, the [[Keeper_of_the_Golden_Fields#The_Silent_Giant|Silent Giant]] will no doubt suffer damage from the flames, significantly reducing its production of mana crystals until repaired.

Thorn and bone

2026-07-21T22:27:23Z

Kirkbride: /* Environment: Words in the Pines */

[[Category:Winds of War]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Military Council]]
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Thorns.png|caption=The vallorn rises in Sarangrave, and the Nesustak Forest will fall before it.|align=left|width=500}}</div>
==Of Sword and Shield==
Five Imperial armies are in Sarangrave this season. The [[Black Thorns]], [[Boyar's Hasta]], and [[Granite Pillar]] stand ready to face the vallorn as it comes pouring out of Bendol into the [[Sarangrave#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]. The [[Citadel Guard]] and the [[Golden Axe]] focus their efforts on the remaining threat of the [[Druj]], whose desperation becomes more and more pronounced as each season passes. There is also the Axos army of ''Ipotavo'', but they are concerned with claiming the Thornfen and protecting it from any errant vallornspawn.

Likewise, the limited military forces of the Nesustak rebels - the warriors of the Marsh Striders and the Bloodwater Spears and the other former slaves of the Mallum - are focused entirely on protecting their homes from the vallorn, fighting alongside the Empire's armies. Also fighting with the Imperial armies warbands led by Imperial captains, easily another two whole armies worth of heroes and champions. Most fight alongside the [[Black Thorns]], with a healthy contingent standing with the [[Boyar's Hasta]], but there are warriors from across the Empire fighting in Sarangrave this season and every army has its supporters.

There is also something in the air; [[Autumn magic]] floods the territory bringing with it an intuitive sense of the presence of danger that allows folk to avoid nearby enemies and hazards. Those affected by this power find themselves drawn by chance to safe locations, and possessed of an uncanny awareness of the paths to take to help them avoid capture or death. While its usefulness to those fighting the vallorn is obvious, it also provides a measure of protection to the armies fighting in Sarangrave this season.
<div {{float}}>
<quote by="Cadwell Waystone, General of the Black Thorns">Few words are needed for me to explain what is about to fall upon Nesustak Forest and the septs of the Mallum that live within it. The Greentide of the Vallorn will descend across the land, but we will be there to meet them. Let us show the Empire why we are the first line of defence against this foe. We will deploy a solid defence to buy time for the soldiers of the Granite Pillar to protect the septs. We will show these septs the light of virtue and the strength it provides. Leave the word of the desperate Druj to our siblings the Citadel Guard and Golden Axe.</quote>
<quote by="Serafina Semenov, General of the Boyar's Hasta">My Hasta! You make our quartermaster weep. A family of raiders, rapscallions, you are loud, opinionated and at least two of you owe me money. But to the Druj? To our foes? You are the ghost in the wind. The nightmare at the edges of their tunnel vision. But the job is not finished. The hand does not leave the door while the dark is moving. The Vallorn made the mistake of waking up while we're here. Make it a rude one. Hold the Vallornguard's wisdom in one hand and the Emperor's steel in another. Our eyes saved the Sarangrave, now let our spears defend those who cannot defend themselves.</quote>
<quote by="Sychar of Ebon's Hall, general of the Granite Pillar">We love the sword not for its sharpness, but for what it protects. We are soldiers; we are trained to fight, because if we do not, there are those who will tear virtue down. And so, alongside our allies in Varushka, Urizen and Navarr, we shall engage the Vallorn and in doing so protect the septs with a Solid Defence. We come as liberators, not conquerors, to bring the light of the Way. Where we go, virtues follow! You are the light in the darkness, and I could not be prouder of you my beloved siblings.</quote>
</div>
==The Doom of Béantal Dol==
The last act of the [[Druj_armies#Tainted_Basilisk|Tainted Basilisk]] was to [[Other_monstrous_geographies#End_of_All_Songs|rouse the vallorn]] of [[Sarangrave#Béantal Dol|Béantal Dol]] to devour Sarangrave, just as they raised the vallorn of [[Therunin|Tharunind]] to lay waste to [[Therunin]]. Using the [[Sentinel Gate]], Imperial heroes managed to [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater_Marsh|stem the tide]] of the vallorn in [[Sarangrave#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]], and in the process [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Objective:_Shatter_the_Bilious_Breath|shatter]] the corrupt army of the Tainted Basilisk once and for all. Nothing can save the warding stones that once kept the vallorn contained in [[Sarangrave#Bendol|Bendol]], but thanks in part to the [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Game_Information_:_Béantal_Dol|vigilance of the Boyar's Hasta]], the worst of the damage has been contained...

All except for the Nesustak Forest. The Tainted Basilisk directed their malice against the Forest and the Marshes, against the rebels and the Empire. Even as heroes are fighting in the Bloodwater Marsh, the vallorn is beginning to surge forth across the woodlands claimed by the former slaves of the Sarangrave Druj.

Almost since the moment it was first unleashed, since it brought about the ruin of Béantal Dol, the vallorn in Bendol has been contained. That last desperate act of the Terunael magicians meant that a thousand years of growth, of the fecund magic of the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] pouring into the mortal world, had nowhere to go. The warnings were plentiful; if the warding stones were removed the vallorn would explode outwards like a mechanism under tension that has finally been released. And explode it does. An eruption of greenery that spreads in all directions. It is weakened in Turan Flats, in Thornfen, and in Whisperwood. It has been held back in Bloodwater Marsh. Now it seeks to overwhelm Nesustak and the people who live there, a terrible tendril of destruction whipping out from the dark heart of Bendol.

The people of Nesustak Forest will fight - but they stand no chance against the unleashed vallorn. Even the aid of the ''[[Irra Harah|Prince with a Thousand Foes]]'' won't be enough to save them. The [[inhabitants of the realms#heralds|heralds]] and mortal "friends" of the Spring [[eternal]] will do their best but this is not a corrupt overseer, a tyrant, an oppressive conqueror that they can face down, nor is it a force that they can rally the oppressed to rise up against. It is a force of nature, utterly wild and completely savage, incapable of fear, remorse, or pity. A sea of life that will consume everything in its path, transforming everything over which it washes into part of itself.

So it falls to the Imperial armies to face the vallorn of Bendol, to stand against the tide, to turn back the sea. There are degrees of victory, of course, but anything short of total triumph will see Nesustak Forest tainted, wounded by the vallorn in a way that cannot be healed until that day where mortals finally face the wrath of the vallorn united, and achieve its destruction. Just as with [[Therunin#East Ashes|East Ashes]], where the [[Pilgrim's Defiance]] fought bravely against Tharunind, if any part of the vallorn makes it through the defenders the land will be [[A_bright_cerulean_flame|infested]] with the power of chaos.

A tall order.
<div style="float:left; width: 250px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Cadwell Waystone.png|caption='''Cadwell Waystone''', General of the Black Thorns|align=right|width=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Serafina Semenov.jpg|caption='''Serafina Semenov''', General of the Boyar's Hasta|align=right|width=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Sychar of Ebon's Hall.jpg|caption='''Sychar of Ebon's Hall''', General of the Granite Pillar|align=right|width=250}}
</div>
All three armies are [[enchantment|enchanted]] with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]]. This is not a struggle to kill the opponent - right now there is no way to kill the vallorn in any way that matters - but to face its wrath and endure it. In the wild woods of Nesustak, the preternatural strategic awareness granted by [[Day magic]] will prove invaluable, allowing for soldiers spread across the region to coordinate their efforts toward the shared goal. The Black Thorns take the lead, appropriately enough, forming the first line of defence against the horror boiling out of Bendol. The Granite Pillar see to the defence of the septs of the Mallum, to those newly established settlements across Nesustak that house those who broke free of Druj dominance. The Boyar's Hasta stand between the two, ready to turn their spears to the defence of the former slaves or to plunge them into the heart of the vallornspawn, whichever is most needed.

The rebels of Nesustak are not defenceless; all those who can fight prepare to do so. The heralds of ''Unshackled'' are everywhere, offering counsel and support. There is no hiding from the vallorn; it devours all hiding places. There is no yielding; it is incapable of mercy. There is only flight, or fight. Those who cannot fight flee westward, under the protection of Highguard. Those who can fight take up spear and bow and ready themselves to battle the End of the World alongside Imperial soldiers. There is some suspicion, of course, but the [[Other_monstrous_geographies#The_Defence_of_Nesustak|example]] of the [[Gryphon's Pride]], and the clear commitment of the Empire to defend them, mean that it is put aside, for the moment at least. Even the children of the ''Ward of the Young'' urge the people of Nesustak to take the aid of Imperial armies at face value, at least for now. There may be a time when the septs of the Mallum and the Empire must fight one another, but for now they are united in a single cause.

There is barely enough time to prepare, though, before the first tendrils of the vallorn stretch out from the heart of Sarangrave into the forest, and chaos flows in their wake.

==Terror of a Thousand Years==
The vallorn rises, writhing out across Nesustak Forest. The first sign of its coming is that the vegetation all along the river begins to thicken, to grow with supernatural speed and fecundity, forcing the waters that flow down toward the lake to slow to a snail's pace. Across this surface sprout the roots of the Bendol trees, the body of the vallorn itself, creating a bridge across which the creatures of the deep woods can pour unchecked into Nesustak (and an observer might see this and shudder as to what this same process might have done in Bloodwater Marsh had it been free to spread there as well).

There is a mercy; the vallorn is expanding so swiftly that the [[vallorn miasma|miasma]] that hangs heavy over the places it claims is left behind. Not so the vallornspawn, the aberrant creatures that dwell within the heart of darkness, trapped in an eternal cycle of life and death, hunting and hunted in turn, warped by exposure to the chaos of Spring, compounded by the folly of Terunael.

It would take too long to enumerate the abhorrent things that pour out of Bendol. There are the [[vallornspawn husks]] of course. Although it is rare to encounter them outside the mists of the miasma, this season at least they are on the move into Nesustak. Perhaps it is a consequence of the great tide of power flowing out of the vallorn that drives them before it, heralds of its coming. The first husks are perhaps the most tragic; they are former human folk, many with the [[briar]] lineage. Most look so fresh they might be mistaken for living beings were it not for the way they move. These are the [[Into_Béantal_Dol#The_Grynbor|Grynbor]], that sept of human slaves that lived on the very edge of the Nesustak Forest across the river from the vallorn. The children of Irra Harah grimly recount their attempts to get them to flee the advance of the vallorn, and how they refused to leave. As Béantal Dol began to rise they bedecked themselves in their finery, adorned themselves in flowers, and crossed the river en masse to join with their ancestors.

The heralds were barely able to save a handful of children from this madness. For the rest, they really ''did'' join their ancestors - as creatures of the vallorn caught perpetually between life and death. Unfortunately, a disproportionate number of the former Grynbor seem to have made particularly strong hosts, even those without briar lineage. Many of them exhibit the powers of the so-called ''[[Vallornspawn_husk#Vallornspawn_Husks_and_Briars|dryads]]'', husks that channel Spring magic directly to empower and support the other husks around them and can by themselves keep a mob moving forward even in the face of concerted resistance.

There are also orc bodies moving at the forefront of the husks, but they are significantly less tragic. Many are magicians of the Tainted Basilisk, those overwhelmed by the vallorn when they broke the warding stones. Their living-death has washed away their magic, their spite and bitterness, leaving them no more potent than any other vallornspawn. Some do still wear remnants of the [[Weapons_%26_armour#Mage_Armour|mage armour]] that protected them in life, and some [[magic items|magic]] still clings to it, but it is fading fast. The Tainted Basilisk have reaped their reward for their wickedness, and paid the price for their attempt at [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Vengeance|retribution]].

The husks are only part of it, though, and alongside them come all the twisted abominations of the vallorn. The scouts who [[Into_Béantal_Dol#Within_Bendol|pressed into the depths of the vallorn]] spoke of monstrous hunting lizards whose jaws split open like flowers revealing hundreds of hooked teeth, and of serpentine creatures with spider-like legs that skittered through the trees, leaping at their prey and tearing them apart with their barbed claws before swallowing them whole. These are but the tip of the iceberg, however. Bear-like horrors with living vines growing in their hide that snap out and entangle enemies. Trees that shamble and stumble, shrieking with human voices and gushing red blood rather than sap when they are injured. Orbs of plant matter that drift unnaturally against the wind and explode with venomous spores when they take the slightest damage. Awful humanoid things, part flesh and part plant, each one twice the size of orc or human, lumpen and misshapen as the half-sculpted mockery of thinking beings that they are. There is at least one sighting of an infested [[marshwalker]], a natural creature twisted into a being of rampant destruction that moans and howls in constant agony. A creature that looks like nothing so much as a great ball of humanoid arms, rolling and dragging itself through the trees, before opening dozens of dripping maws in the palms of its "hands" with which it can suck all the blood from an unfortunate victim in a matter of moments. This and more, creatures from nightmare, all driven forward by the instinct of the vallorn, to devour, to consume, to contain.

Of all the spawn of the vallorn, only the [[ettercap|ettercaps]] are absent. As the scouts revealed, there seem to be none in Bendol. If there is a reason for this conspicuous absence, it is not any more apparent than it was when the Navarr first slipped into the ruins of Béantal Dol.

They come, and the Empire holds against them, and then things begin to go wrong.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">[[file:IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=300]]</div>

==The Wooden Fastness==
Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a magical ward settles over the Nesustak Forest. The [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wooden fastness]], forged from the power of Irra Harrah himself. Thickets of thorn and briar form; masses of branch and root mesh together to create veritable walls of living vegetation to help hold back the surging vallorn. The marsh forest itself acts to hinder enemies, while parting to allow the swift passage of allies. Even some of the beasts of Nesustak themselves fight the vallorn, in keeping with their natures, although this rarely ends well for them. And, while the region belongs to the rebels, the magic treats the Imperial defenders as allies and offers them safety in the wild places of the woodlands.

At the same time, the servants of Irra Harah slip into the woodlands in numbers hitherto unseen. Their primary focus is to protect the rebels, but they are prepared to cooperate with the Empire toward their shared goal. Bright-eyed heralds appear from nowhere to warn a cohort of the Granite Pillar of the approach of vallornspawn that might otherwise have caught them in a pincer. Quick rabbit-like creatures the size of a great dane lead a lost patrol of the Boyar's Hasta to safety at a rebel village, echoing the stories of magical beasts familiar to all [[Varushka|Varushkans]] (it is just as well, perhaps, that it is ''this'' army that is in Sarangrave for Irra Harah has little love for certain ''other'' Varushkan armies). The whispered words of the ''Golden Hare'' himself are brought on the wind to the Black Thorns, offering guidance as to where their strength might be best employed.

The friends of Irra Harah - the mortals who aid the eternal and have come to Nesustak to work with the rebels - say that in part this response from the eternal is due to the petition of the [[Archmage of Spring]] who has entreated ''Shacklebreaker'' for aid in Nesustak. The aid is for the most part subtle, but it is aid nonetheless. Many who would have died survive their encounters with the vallorn, and those who might have been overwhelmed are brought succour when it is most needful.

However... this very ward that protects so many proves to be a two-edged sword. The vallorn is drawn to [[Spring magic]], and the Wooden Fastness is a powerful expression of that realm's arts. At first the ward is only beneficial, helping the defenders hold back the vallorn. Unfortunately, the further the vallornspawn press, the deeper its tendrils penetrate, the wilder they become. The mechanism is unclear but they ''glut'' themselves somehow on the magic flowing around them. The vallorn itself seems to batten onto the magic, feeding on it, drawing strength from it. The husks drive forward, pressing further ahead of the tendrils of the vallorn itself. The abominations often seem driven into a frenzy when they come into contact with elements of the ward, attacking with berserk fury. Worse, the power of the ward serves to invigorate and revitalise the vallornspawn; where the ward is most potent they seem to heal almost immediately from all save the most terrible wounds. While they cannot endure [[venom]], the vallornspawn husks seem almost impossible to destroy except by literally rending them limb from limb.

While the ward slows the attackers, while it protects the weak and the strong, it does so by making the vallornspawn more vicious, and blood begins to flow in rivers through the forests of Nesustak.

It is of course at this exact moment that the Druj choose to return to Sarangrave.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Druj1.jpg|align=right|width=350}}

==Fang and Feather==
The Tainted Basilisk are no more, but there are two other armies that still call Sarangrave home. The [[Druj_armies#Poison_Crane|Poison Crane]] are the warriors of the Marshlizard who once dominated [[Sarangrave#Thornfen|Thornfen]] and [[Sarangrave#Kroll|Kroll]]. Likewise, the [[Druj_armies#Hidden_Snake|Hidden Snake]] are drawn from the Banded Snake sept who ruled over Nesustak Forest and the Turan Flats. Their homelands have been conquered by the Empire. Those Druj who ruled the septs have been forced to flee, either north into the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] or into the wild places of Sarangrave. Either way they are in no position to support their warriors any more. It comes as no surprise then that a couple of weeks after the Spring Equinox, these two armies launch an attack against Sarangrave. It is perhaps more of a surprise that there are no ''other'' Druj armies with them. They do not come alone, however, when they pour across the border from [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Lower_Saarnath|Lower Saarnath]] into Turan Flats.

It is common for Druj armies to bear potent [[enchantment|enchantments]] but usually they draw on the lore of [[Spring magic]]. Sometimes, though, it can be easy to forget that the wicked magicians of the Druj are versed in other realms as well. It has been a long time since the Empire has seen the warriors of the Mallum fighting alongside the dead but when the two battered armies come into the Sarangrave, thousands of shambling horrors come with them. If they were Imperial armies, the [[Unfettered Mind]] would say they are subject to [[Quickening Cold Meat]] but this is not any dubious gift of [[Wise Rangara]] - it is something altogether worse.

The dead - predominantly but not solely orcs - are absolutely consumed with hunger for living blood and meat. The spirits inside them are not quite the same as those drawn by the Imperial enchantment; they are as cunning as they are savage. While they cannot speak, they display the ability to work together in a way Winter husks rarely evidence. They move quickly, lean and athirst, hunting ahead of the Druj armies in packs that hurl themselves at any who try to fight, and relentlessly chase down anyone who tries to flee like wild dogs. A few seem to be possessed of more potent spirits, that unleash occasional howls of terrifying intensity that can [[Weakness|drive the strength]] from a warrior and make them easy prey for the pack.

They are similar to the traditional spirits called by Imperial magic in one particular way, however. When they are defeated - when their stolen bodies can no longer house the creature of the Winter realm housed within - they move swiftly to find another body and rouse it to wakefulness ready to enact the same horrible dance of hunt, murder, and feasting all over again. As the season draws on, then, there are more former humans among their number than orcs, making them all the more horrible.

As well as Winter spirits, the Hidden Snake is accompanied by a cohort of the creatures known as [[Druj_lore#Tortured_souls|tortured souls]]. Former Imperial heroes and champions, captured by the Druj and transformed through torment and vile ceremonies into relentless warriors of death who harbour an unending hatred for those they see as having abandoned them. The general of the Hidden Snake, [[Druj_champion#Het|Het]] Trakaa, is known to have an obsession with creating these things and it seems he has brought his entire "collection" with him in this last-ditch, desperate attack.

Perhaps they believe that the Empire's attention is focused elsewhere, fighting the vallorn, and they will have the opportunity to claim the [[Sarangrave#Turan Flats|Turan Flats]]. Perhaps they are just desperate. Either way, the two armies erupt across the border, launching an [[Army_orders#Overwhelming_Assault|overwhelming assault]] against what were once the holdings of the Banded Snakes in Turan. They must be hoping to claim the region before the Empire realises they are there, and seize another season from the jaws of death.
<div {{float}}>
<quote by="Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was, General of the Citadel Guard">Sentinels, Consider the Drowned Man. There were three Druj armies that Tyrannised the people of the Sarangrave. As I write this, there are two. Under my command, the Basilisk was Broken by the Heroes of Anvil. Now the Snake and Crane will break on your discipline. We are their end.</quote>
<quote by="Vojsuli Cherenkov, General of the Golden Axe">Axe, we have fought to take Sarangrave. Now we fight to hold it. The Druj seek to take what we have claimed and in vigilance we shall deny them in this. We shall be a shield for our comrades fighting the Vallorn. We shall break the Druj with our axes. We deny them this day and for all days to come. Their empire shall fall, their armies shall break. Axe, with me, we Stand!</quote></div>

==Battle of the Flats==
Fortunately, the Empire is entirely prepared for the attack from the north. The Citadel Guard and the Golden Axe are already in position to meet the onslaught from the Salt Flats, and when the Hidden Snake and the Poison Crane launch their attack they break themselves against a solid wall of Imperial soldiers.

If it were possible to feel pity for the Druj, now might be the time. Even with Winter husks fighting with them they are outnumbered nearly three to one by the Urizen and Varushkan troops. There is no subtlety here, no skirmish and retreat, no traps to lure the unsuspecting into, no opportunities to terrorise the weak. There is only a face-to-face fight between two Druj armies that are on the verge of exhausted collapse, and two fresh, well-rested Imperial armies. Druj desperation is no match for the resolve of those that stand against them.

The Snake and the Crane are bent on reaching Turan but they do not come close. The battle of Turan Flats takes place miles from Trakaa's capital, from the Banded Snake's old centre of power. Indeed, the Druj have barely crossed the border before the Citadel Guard and the Golden Axe are upon them. At first, the armies fall back a little, giving the impression perhaps that they are overwhelmed and ready to give ground. But they are merely testing the forces that have come against them, wisely waiting to see if this is just the advance guard and if a more potent force follows behind. As soon as it becomes clear that the two armies are by themselves, the trap snaps shut around them.

Thrusting forward towards Turan means that they are far enough from the border for the plentiful forces of the Golden Axe to flank them on either side while the Citadel Guard plant their standards in the soft marsh soil and simply refuse to fall back any further. The fighting is vicious, bloody, savage as only a war against the Druj can be. Stripped of their tricks they have only their martial force to rely on, and even with their unliving auxiliaries it is just... not enough.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was.jpg|caption='''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', General of the Citadel Guard|align=left|width=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=GeneralGoldenAxe.jpg|caption='''Vojsuli Cherenkov''' (right), General of the Golden Axe|align=left|width=250}}
</div>
Oh, the Empire does not emerge unscathed. Some five hundred Imperial soldiers fall to the Druj, to their howling Winter war-dogs, to the tortured spirits of champions taken by the enemy and twisted into something unspeakable. At the same time, however, the Druj lose nearly twice that many of their own troops - losses they cannot hope to recover from while the Empire holds Sarangrave and their septs are broken and scattered.

The Druj have been driven back, but the encounter is far from decisive. The invaders are left with no option but to fall back to the Salt Flats, perhaps to make one last attempt on reclaiming their lands next season. The Citadel Guard and the Golden Axe give chase, but they are unable to catch the fleeing Druj. The same Imperial magic that serves to help the folk of Nesustak Forest escape the vallorn proves an unexpected ally to the orcs of the Mallum. The bulk of their two armies easily escape their pursuers back toward the border with Sanath.

==An End to Waiting==
While the Citadel Guard and the Golden Axe battle the Druj in Turan Flats, the rest of the Imperial forces fight alongside the Nesustak rebels against a seemingly endless tide of vallornspawn empowered and invigorated by that same Spring magic meant to protect the people of the forest. It is a paradox, almost. Those sites where the enchantment is focused are the best place to hold the vallorn, but the savagery of the spawn means it is also where the most blood is spilled.

As the vallorn draws power from Spring magic, the defenders are thrown into disarray and it seems clear the vallornspawn are going to overwhelm them. First one step back, then another. The trees of eastern Nesustak begin to twist, as the tendrils of the vallorn begin to take root, begin to plant the seeds that will begin the final infestation of the forest. A desperate council of war is held; perhaps it is time to accept the inevitable, to save what can be saved and to abandon the rest. The sorrow that hangs over that discussion is palpable; the heralds of Irra Harah prepare to help those rebels and Imperials prepared to flee the woodlands to make their escape if they think the day is lost.

In the end, though, the Black Thorns refuse point blank to accept defeat. "''Let us show the Empire why we are the first line of defence against this foe''", said the General, and those words resonate like never before. Whatever the other Imperial forces may do, the Black Thorns will not retreat before the vallorn. In the face of such commitment, the Granite Pillar and the Boyar's Hasta will not abandon their allies. The rebels of the Nesustak Forest will not abandon their homes, while there is any chance of holding even a portion of the woodlands.

From there, the push back begins in earnest. The price is grim indeed; the vallornspawn attack in a frenzy but the Imperial forces will not allow them to claim any more land here. They lost Eastring to the malice of the Tainted Basilisk; the Navarr will not allow the Nesustak Forest to share that fate. The vallornspawn are not just held, but they are forced back, back toward the river over which they swarmed, back to the ruins of Béantal Dol. It is slow going at first, and gets harder the closer the vallornspawn get to being driven out of the woodlands. By the time the fighting reaches the banks of the river, the magic of the Wooden Fastness has been so drained the enchantment is beginning to fall apart. Yet it holds long enough to provide a measure of succour to those fighting the vallornspawn, moments of respite in the terrible fighting that create a space to recover from the violence, to rest, to sleep safely.

In the end, as the Summer Solstice approaches, the last of the vallornspawn are cut down. Vates and magisters and cabalists, versed in the lore of Spring and Winter, work quickly to uproot the seeds of the vallorn before they can take root. Without the relentless attacks of the vallorn, it is relatively easy to work the rituals to deal with the contagion left in their wake. While the vallorn still exists the Nesustak Forest will be in danger - but ultimately no more so than [[Hercynia#Northpines|Northpines]] or the [[Hercynia#Glen of Shadows|Glen of Shadows]]. Even the vegetative bridge that stretches across the river, that thick matt of plant matter that allowed abominations to pour into the western woods, begins to decay and fall apart as the vallorn of Béantal Dol slips back into uneasy restfulness. An old story; the vallorn rises and the resolve of humans and orcs drives it back. Inspirational, perhaps.

==An Old Story==
In the north, in the Turan Flats, another old story is unfolding. The Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake have escaped the wrath of the Golden Axe and the Citadel Guard, seeking to flee back over the border into the Salt Flats of Sanath, guided by Autumn magic. Yet, at the last moment, something goes wrong. Perhaps those who remember the Druj retreat from Holberg all those years ago might have guessed what is coming but it seems the armies of the Mallum have short memories.

When they try to leave Turan Flats, the Hidden Snake and the Poison Crane are met with a tempest of arrows. Druj arrows. Warriors from the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires of Rarckan]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon of Iskrid]] are arrayed along the border, and will not let the defeated armies cross out of Sarangrave. Those who try are remoreselessly cut down. A few might make it across, but without the protection of the Autumn magic that has protected them thus far they will not escape the patrols for long.

Left with no choice, the armies turn on the very edge of Turan Flats and prepare to make their final stand. One way or another, this is the end for the Hidden Snake and the Poison Crane; the end for the Banded Snake and Marshlizard; the end for Het Trakaa and his terrible crimes. Some will escape, no doubt, to join the Druj in hiding throughout the Mallum. The Autumn enchantment will see to that, but their numbers are only a fraction of those warriors who fled the fall of the Tower of the Skink. How dangerous can they be, these last few thousand Druj?

But that is not the only danger here, and this is not just the cruelty of the Druj made manifest. The Citadel Guard have made a close enough study of the magic wrapped around the two armies; it portends something bad that is to come. The bonds of Winter magic that coil around the Hidden Snake and Poison Crane hold hundreds and hundreds of Winter spirits in thrall to the commanders of the army. When those two armies fail - and fail they will - those spirits will be unleashed into the Sarangrave to begin an [[Quickening_Cold_Meat#Description|unliving rampage]].

==Game Information==
<div {{float}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Regions of Sarangrave.png|caption=Sarangrave is mapped, but parts of the territory remain unknown.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
===Sarangrave===
* '''The vallorn has been beaten back from Nesustak Forest
* '''It has returned to (relative) quiesence by the start of the Summer Solstice
* '''The Druj armies that invaded Sarangrave have been defeated but escaped Imperial pursuit
* '''They have been prevented from leaving the territory by Druj forces in the Salt Flats of Sanath
The vallorn of Bendol has been beaten back from Nesustak Forest. The [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] enchantment both served to protect the region, and imperil its defenders. Its strength both served to increase the defence of the Imperial armies, and inflict casualties on the vallorn (inasmuch as that is irrelevant with an empowered vallorn but it still happened). Unfortunately, in line with warnings given about the danger of Spring magic and the vallorn, the vallornspawn who encountered the enchantment were ultimately empowered by it. They did not gain strength to conquer the region - which would have been counterproductive - but instead the number of casualties they inflicted on the defenders was significantly increased. For now though, the immediate threat of the vallorn is over. It is no longer contained by the warding stones of Terunael - their power has been expended protecting the rest of the territory - and it is still a very powerful example of a vallorn. But it is quiescent, at least for the moment.

The Druj armies that invaded Turan Flats were defeated by the Urizen and Varushkan armies. They are still in the territory, however, trapped between the Salt Flats of Sanath (who will not allow them to enter) and the Empire's soldiers. Their strength is greatly depleted, and they are on the verge of collapse. Following the Summer Solstice, whatever else happens these two armies will disband. They are hanging on by a thread, partially due to the impact of the Autumn magic enchantment laid on the territory.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Alikos Helio.jpg|align=right|width=250}}</div>

===Thornfen===
* '''Axos has finished claiming the region of Thornfen'''
Finally, the Axou forces of Ipotavo have finished claiming the region of Thornfen, with the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Acknowledge_Axou_claim_to_Thornfen|approval of the Senate]]. The region is now part of Axos. The fortification itself has been assimilated, but has no garrison. At the moment, the Axou forces in Sarangrave are allied to the Empire and Imperial armies can move through the region freely. If that were to change, any Imperial army trying to move through Thornfen would be forced to stop and deal with any Axou forces stationed there.

True to their intent, the Axou consolidation of Thornfen has seen the existing population there exiled to [[Sarangrave#Kroll|Kroll]] and [[Sarangrave#Whisperwood|Whisperwood]]. Only those former slaves of the Mallum who can demonstrate a clear connection to the citadels of Axos have been permitted to remain in Thornfen. Further details of the situation in Thornfen will be presented in the '''[[Diplomatic]]''' winds of fortune.

===Escape Path===
* '''The arcane projection used in Sarangrave represents an effect that would no longer be allowed with Autumn magic
This season the Sarangrave was under the effect of Autumn magic that helped reduce casualties suffered by armies, as well as helping people find the best route to safety. This is an old [[arcane projection]], that wouldn't be passed today. Helping people find safety, such as with [[Hand of the Dhomiro]] is an entirely appropriate use of [[Autumn magic]], but the ability to reduce all casualties on a territory level isn't something we'd allow today. There are of course plenty of arcane projections from previous years in the game, and there is no problem with making use of them, but the older an arcane projection is the more likely it represents some peculiar aberration of magic.

The in-character explanation is that the arcane projection represents the result of a conjunction at the time it was created. The ongoing magical chaos caused by the stars supported the ritual, but the effect of the ritual could not be duplicated going forward.

==Battle: Harvester of Graves==
Whilst most eyes have been on the [[vallorn]] erupting from [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] this season, the activity in the east of [[Sarangrave]] has also seen portentous happenings. The courageous efforts of the [[Citadel Guard]] and the [[Golden Axe]] have turned back the assault of the Hidden Snake and Poison Crane, along with their undead allies. Yet in turn the [[Druj]] in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] have turned weapons on their fleeing compatriots, signalling that there is no return to the heart of the Mallum for the two armies.

The barbarians now find themselves in an unenviable position. Close to breaking from the casualties inflicted upon them by the [[Varushka|Varushkans]] and the [[Urizen|Urizeni]], denied entry to Sanath, and cut off from any chance of resupply or support. If they flee they will die, if they make camp they will starve, the only way open to them is to strike with fear, unleash terror, and hope they make it across the Howling Abyss.

It is apparent that the wider plan is to drive the remnants of the armies into Imperial lines, bleeding their own forces, and ultimately breaking them in bone and sinew. The only way is west, onto the axes and rods of the Empire's armies that have already driven them back once. When the armies do break, the twisted abominations that march with them will fall in savagery upon Imperial soldiers.

There is a conjunction to the ''Fens of Varreth'' in the [[Sarangrave#Turan_Flats|Turan Flats]] within Sarangrave. The Sentinel Gate will enable travel to the location on Saturday or Sunday of the Summer Solstice.

===Objective: Trap the Spirits===
* '''The winter rituals cast upon the Hidden Snake and Poison Crane are uncoiling'''
* '''The Halls of Maykop have offered use of the ''Scorched Drenkthal'''''
* '''Successfully using the boon will contain the spirits'''
* '''The Halls of Maykop will expect the boon to be returned to them'''
* '''If nothing is done thousands of ravenous winter husks will fall under the control of Agramant'''
* '''If that happens the regions of Thornfen, and Kroll will be tormented'''

When the two Druj armies disband, the winter spirits that animate the corpses alongside their armies will seek out the dead in the wider area, will fall under the macabre control of ''Agramant, The Howler'', eternal of Winter. These husks are not the somnambulant shamblers ushered into wakefulness by the magic of Wise Rangara, they are bloodthirsty cadavers keen to feast on flesh and blood. They are vicious, cunning and cruel, slaking their cold hunger with living and screaming meat. These terrible monsters will spread into Thornfen and Kroll bring terror in their wake.

Six months ago, the Empire, led by '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' as [[Field Marshal]], passed through the Sentinel Gate and drew the attention of [[Fire_and_the_flood#Objective:_Confront_Fangsnapper's_forces|Het Rethan "''Fangsnapper''"]]. This daring intervention allowed the Shield of Ipotavo to receive vital resupply from Axos. This intercession was a clear demonstration of the Empire's willingness to help its allies, and the Axou are keen to return the favour. Upon hearing of the rampant husks, the citadel has offered three strange posies of herbs that would entrap the Winter spirits inside and prevent them from entering the recently deceased. These posies are an ancient boon from [[Wise Rangara]], won in centuries past, that allows the bearers to sap away the lingering Winter magic in an area. The use of the boon requires agreement from ''Grandmother Winter'', which the Axou have already secured for this purpose.

The Halls request three volunteers to bond to the three aspects of the Scorched Drenkthal that take the form of small bundles of herbs wrapped in cloth, as they journey to the ''Fens of Varreth''. Each corsage would [[Unyielding Constitution|offer some benefit whilst in combat]], but potentially leave those bonded with a lack of caution - less than ideal given the presence of rampaging Winter spirits. The three will need to reach a set of pillars that mark the edge of the reeking mires of the area, placing their herb bundle at the base of one of the pillars. This would slowly sap away at the Winter magic in the area, wrangling the spirits and effectively trapping them. After 10 minutes, the three bundles of herbs will have been suffused with the winter spirits and can be reclaimed, ready to return with to Anvil and to be passed back to the Axou by the civil service. What the Halls of Maykop might do with the spirits once they have been bound to the ''Scorched Drenkthal'' is unclear.

Agramant's monsters are far too smart to attack the fortification in Thornfen. They will prey on settlements and pick off stragglers, dragging them into the darkness to devour them. The populace of a tormented region are slowly depleted and such regions will quickly become underpopulated and eventually abandoned, while the people who live there will be filled with terror. Garrisons and armies cannot benefit from natural resupply in a territory that contains one or more tormented regions.

===Option: Thief takes the Meat===
* '''Night ritualists could transfer the ritual enchantments from the Druj generals using ''Thief's Arcane Gambit'''''
* '''Each recipient Imperial general would then have a three-season Winter ritual enchantment on their army'''

In response to enquiries, the civil service have confirmed that a bold and previously untried plan would be possible - at least theoretically. With a large enough Night coven, it is possible to utilise ''[[Thief's Arcane Gambit]]'' to 'steal' the Winter enchantment and place it on a new target. This requires the ritual to be cast at half the magnitude of the original enchantment.

Each of the two Druj generals would need to be captured, alive, and then detained for the duration of the ritual. A night coven would then need to perform a magnitude 60 casting of Thief's Arcane Gambit on the captured general. The ritual can only steal an enchantment if it is placed on to a comparable target, in this case a [[general]] of an Imperial [[army]]. If successful each Imperial general will be under the power of the Winter ritual that will last for three seasons before ending.

There are two caveats to consider. The first is that the Winter spirits are currently here in the Sarangrave. If the enchantment that controls and binds and focuses them is moved to an army elsewhere in the world, the husks will move there. They will move relatively quickly, but they will cause significant problems for the lands they move through to arrive at the destination.

The second problem is that unlike [[Quickening Cold Meat]], the enchantment the Druj are employing appears to draw on the power of [[Agramant]]. Technically the magicians won't be casting an Agramant ritual, they'll be casting Thief's Arcane Gambit, but that sounds like a novel legal defence for a general under a powerful Agramant enchantment to employ. The civil service have not had time to check what the legal position would be. They have had time to check how Agramant would respond - they are fairly certain the eternal would be ''absolutely delighted''.

===Objective: End Trakaa's Tortured Souls===
* '''Het Trakaa has mustered his remaining tortured souls to deliver a crippling blow against the Empire'''
* '''If these monsters are not destroyed, then the Turan Flats will become tormented'''
* '''Priests will need support to exorcise these powerful creatures'''

Tortured Souls are born from a combination of the Druj's [[apothecary]] skills and mystic rituals that break an individual's will and turn them into a monster full of wrath and malice towards any they face. They are fearsome foes, often still clad in the garb of their former Imperial lives, and capable of inflicting a grievous curse with blows from their weapons. Whilst it is possible to put down and execute their physical forms, their spiritual presence can quickly return. Het Trakaa, the general of the Hidden Snake, has unleashed the last of these pitiful abominations here in the Turan Flats, intent on setting them free against Imperial forces to deal as much pain and suffering as possible, before they are destroyed.

Exorcists will need to ascertain the strength of the aura that lies on each creature using insight ceremonies, before mustering sufficient power of will, and liao, to dismiss the souls of these tortured beings. Whilst many of the tortured souls are comparable to those encountered before, around a dozen of them are more powerful creatures, possessed of greater awareness of their surroundings and with stronger connections to their former lives. These individuals will be recognisable by the distinctive Imperial clothing they still wear, but will pose a far greater challenge for priests to exorcise successfully.

If the majority of the tortured souls are not destroyed, they will stalk the region making it ''tormented''. The monsters will roam the area, killing and torturing any innocents they find, and striking terror into the hearts of those they encounter.

===Objective: Kill Trakaa and Sul===
* '''The armies of Het Trakaa and Sul Maggotgnaw are about to collapse'''
* '''What is left of the two forces will scatter across the territory looking to prey on the weak'''
* '''Killing Het Trakaa and Sul Maggotgnaw will ensure that these attacks are scatted and uncoordinated'''

Both the Hidden Snake and Poison Crane armies have now been broken in battle and will disband within days. When that happens, the soldiers who are left will break and seek out cover as the army dissolves. Whatever happens, these partians will be a problem for the Urizeni, raiding farms and caravans, stealing goods and attacking patrols. But those attacks will be ill-disciplined, they will lack any direction or purpose. They will be a problem, but not one that grows with time, or joins forces with other problems the Urizeni face, at least until they get new leadership from somewhere.

However, if the generals of the two armies are still alive when their army collapses, they will go with their soldiers and be able to maintain a degree of cohesion and control over what remains. On the face of it, the the effects will be the same, the army will dissolve and the soldiers will go into hiding, emerging to attack isolated farmsteads and passing merchants. But with the leadership still there, such attacks will be guided by a malicious intelligence, able to plan attacks and act in concert with other enemies of the Empire.

The two generals have been identified as Trakaa of the Hidden Snake and Sul Maggotgnaw of the Poison Crane. Marching under a tattered banner depicting broken bones, Trakaa will be accompanied by his personal Pakad bodyguard. Sul Maggotgnaw is protected by a unit of poison-wielding Chikkad who fight under a banner depicting a ichorous maggot. Killing these two important Druj leaders will ensure that the surviving Druj are left leaderless, limiting the threat they post once the army disbands.

===Threat: The Mirk Lizards===
* '''The Druj are joined by a group of human warriors clothed in scraps of tattered blue fabric'''
* '''They appear to be excommunicating rather than executing some victims in battle'''
A band of human warriors march with the Druj into battle. Wearing tattered scraps of blue tunics, they have the demeanour of grim-faced and seasoned mercenaries, well-armoured and carrying an assortment of weapons. Next to nothing is known of them, but there are rumours that these warriors are driven to oppose the Way in some fashion. There are claims that priests among them have excommunicated foes on the battlefield, rather than executing them as the orcs might do. There is no known reason for their actions, or why the Druj allow it; so the war scouts urge caution. Killing them will put an end to their plans and stop their support for the orcs of the Mallum, but if more can be found out, it could prove useful in time to come.

===Environment: Words in the Pines===
* '''Druj ghulai have invoked the power of Agramant to curse the area'''
* '''Any combatant that falls in battle, either Druj or Imperial, will rise again as a shambling husk'''
* '''Skilful blows or dedicated effort can stop these hideous creatures in their tracks'''
* '''This <u>does not</u> apply if you reach the end of your death count whilst in Anvil'''
With the [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] of the [[Conclave]] safely in place, [[Agramant|''Blood upon the Snow'']], is limited in what he can do in Sarangrave, unless invited into the world by a magician. In their desperation, the Druj have done exactly that, invoking the power of Agramant to curse the whole area. As a result, each spirit, whispering gnawing words of unending hunger for the living, is quick to find a body of a recently felled combatant in the area and animate them in a cruel mockery of life. Biding the sibilant uttering of their master, the corpses will stalk forth in a stumbling advance keen to slay any living creature they find.

Anyone who falls in the battle on the ''Fens of Varreth'' will rise again after three minutes unless the individual is executed before they arise. The shambling corpses are not especially hardy, and can be taken down through a sustained assault or more expertly ended through the delivery of cleaving strikes or mortal blows to the limbs or torso.

<box>'''Call of the Abominable One'''
As either a player character or player monster during this battle, if you reach the end of your Death Count (normally after three minutes) then you can choose to immediately rise again as a winter husk, instead of becoming Terminal. At this point your character is dead. In addition you:
* Regain all of your lost hits and ruined limbs are restored
* Move as a slow, shambling corpse, staggering towards and attacking the nearest living creature
* Are unable to use heroic or magical calls
* Cannot activate magical items or ritual enchantments
* Can only vocalise a low unearthly moan
* Are destroyed by a successful CLEAVE or IMPALE blow, or when you next reach zero hit points

Winter husks cannot ''grapple'' with other participants under any circumstances - you must only attack other characters with a weapon-safe latex weapon.

The only way to prevent this occurring is if the individual is executed before they expire.</box>

==A Testing (Conjunction)==
* '''Druj accompanied by heralds of Surut threaten to burn a weirwood tree'''
* '''The Great Forest Orcs have offered their support if the attack is repelled'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for destroying the heralds'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Druj guerillas, secreted throughout the Sarangrave, constantly search for the opportunity to inflict damage on the Imperials and the septs who have dared turn away from the Buruk Tepel. They work to maintain the pall of fear and ruin that has shrouded the Sarangrave for decades. Weirwood smoke is a smell only Surut could enjoy, and the Druj have promised plenty in some foul deal. Urizen scouts have spotted a band of Druj, accompanied by heralds of [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Surut|the Charred Prince]] in Whisperwood, south of Uklead, making their way to the [[Fingers of the Devourer]].

If the Surut heralds are killed, any remaining Druj guerillas can be dealt with by sentinels and other locals. The [[Fingers of the Devourer|Custodian of the Fingers of the Devourer]], '''Borris Harrovich Prochnost''', is responsible for ensuring that the heralds of Surut are killed. Failure to kill the heralds will see them burn one of the weirwood trees, permanently reducing production of the grove by two wains a season. If the heralds are destroyed, then the Great Forest Orcs will repay the effort by supporting the work of the weirwood grove, permanently increasing its production by two wains each season.

==Kaela's Gift==
Secured through a bargain with the Winter Archmage, the gift allows any Imperial citizen in the hands of the [[Druj]] to choose to die painlessly. No corpse remains for the Druj to defile, to impale, or to use to taunt the living - the body turns to dust and ashes. This gift extends across the entire eastern Empire, into the Mallum, [[Brocéliande]], and [[Therunin]].

The gift allows any Imperial citizens fighting in the [[Vallorn#Vallorn_Miasma|vallorn miasma]] to choose death and ''dissolution'' before their bodies could be infested with the vallorn's sick version of immortality.

'''OOC Note:''' Using the gift requires thirty seconds of appropriate roleplaying. This ability may be used by player characters captured by the Druj during an event or who is [[Combat#Dying|dying]] in an area of vallorn miasma; if you do so you should ensure that you mark your character as dead as soon as you can so that your egregore is aware of your death. There is, however, one drawback to this, as Imperial magicians may soon discover: anyone who takes advantage of this ability cannot be contacted with [[Whispers through the Black Gate]].

This ability is an exception to the normal rules on using abilities while [[Combat#Terminal|terminal]]; a terminal character ''can'' use this ability if they are captured by the Druj or fallen in vallorn miasma.

Survival

2026-07-21T22:22:19Z

Kirkbride: /* Hercynia */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Appraisal]]
<ic>
"On your left!" shouted Fan, locked in battle with an orc with sunflowers for eyes. Gav dodged, pivoted and counter-thrusted into the remains of one he had dispatched earlier and thought neutralised, before freeing Fan from the orc's clutches. "Cheers!" They took a moment to dust themselves off, before signalling to the herald of Irra Harah and the Waterwalkers they were escorting that it was safe to continue along the path away from the main fight.

"You'd think it'd get easier after all these years"

"Are you calling me difficult?"

"The vallorn, Fan! The vallorn! On your right!"

Fan leant backwards, as a jagged branch as thick as one of the pillars that held up her house back in Hercynia sailed within a hair's breadth of her face, fully cleaving one of the braids from her hair off. She responded with a javelin that made a satisfying ''crunch'' as it sank deep into the chest of the humongous vallornspawn that threw it.

"Yes, well, I suspect that this might in fact ''be'' the easy part Gav. The Tainted Basilisk have just given us the smallest taste of the battle that is to come."
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sun Chamber colour.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
The [[Sun Chamber]] is the [[Imperial sodality]] formed of the Empire's newest citizens, those who represent the Empire's future. With them come fresh faces to Imperial politics, fresh ideas, and fresh opportunities. Last season, they chose to use their power to appraise an issue facing the Empire to look into how to protect the various vital pieces of Imperial infrastructure from the expansion of the [[vallorn]]. Joining them was [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] of the Prognosticator's office, who volunteered help co-ordinate their efforts.
<div {{float}}>
<quote by="Sun Chamber">When the vallorn expands it destroys all it touches. How might we protect resources, constructions and infrastructure in regions threatened by the vallorn? Perhaps using living weirwood, ritual magic or learning from our international neighbours, but go wild!</quote></div>
==The Known Unknowns==
The research is difficult, not because there is a shortage of options - but for the opposite reason. There are already a sea of resources available to those who wish to defend against the Vallorn. The Navarr have been working on this problem for a long, long time after all. Ultimately, there are few good solutions that do not require the heavy investment of the armies of the [[Military Council]], supplemented by well-placed [[Fortification|fortifications]] to hold back the ''Green Tide'' from being able to reach Imperial Infrastructure in the first place.

While a great deal is [[A thousand years of longing|already known about the vallorn]], there are also some questions that may well remain unanswered until the hearts are connected. The Empire has never seen a fully roused vallorn at full strength in the way that it will be when the final war truly begins; each one is likely to be qualitatively different. The extent to which they have been drained by the trods, the natural geography and the resources it will consume and weaponise in its wake will all make each one potentially slightly different in the way each Imperial Army is slightly different. It would be invaluable to know what the definitive strength of the vallorn was going to be, what qualities each heart might possess, but at present there is no way to find that out.

Perhaps the most dangerous unanswered question is whether, once a vallornheart has expanded and enveloped every region in a territory, it can then expand beyond the natural borders to threaten adjacent lands? There are two possible answers to that question which is distinctly unhelpful. In Axos, in Visokuma, the vallorn has expanded to fill the territory but has since become largely quiescent. There are occasional forays and attacks from the vallorn, but it doesn't surge out the way Imperial vallornhearts do when provoked or attacked. Perhaps when the vallorn is roused they will do likewise?

On the other hand the Visokuma vallorn does still try to expand - and that is before the vallorn has been roused. That rather suggests that it will become a lot more active once it is joined to the others - and that implies that the vallorn will expand beyond its starting territories. It would be good to know one way or the other what the actual answer is.

The problem is that there is simply no good way to answer these questions. The vallorn is a singular problem, unique to the Empire and the surrounding lands. There has never been a time when the vallorn was fully roused, not since the fall of Terunael at least. As a result, there is no obvious way to give definitive answers to such questions until it happens.

==Living Weirwood==
* '''The vallorn is known to avoid stands of weirwood trees'''
* '''The Empire could build a single civilian commission in size inside each weirwood grove'''
* '''Doing so would double the labour costs'''
* '''A commission would not function if the region was overrun by the vallorn, but it would not be destroyed'''
* '''A great work cannot be built inside a weirwood grove'''

From the studies the Sun Chamber have made, everyone agrees that stands of weirwood trees are unaffected by the vallorn. As it spreads, it grows round them, but they remain free of the miasma, and the growth never infests the ground where the weirwood trees take root.
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood Commission'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Any civilian commission except a great work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Any single weirwood grove (bourse resource)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' All regular labour costs are doubled</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' No change</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' If the region containing the commission is conquered by the vallorn the commission will be deactivated but not destroyed</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Freely available from now on</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Only a single commission can be built in each weirwood grove
</td></tr>
</table></div>
Nobody has ever found a way to use this as a weapon, not yet at least. As soon as you cut the weirwood down to use it, it appears to lose the properties that make it resistant to the corruption of the vallorn. Crucially commissions built using weirwood are just as vulnerable to the vallorn as any other.

"But what if we build a commission in the grove?" asks one of the more enterprising members of the sodality. Nobody has ever tried such a thing before, probably because it would be too expensive, but it's possible. And in theory it would work - the weirwood trees would keep the vallorn at bay and whatever was enclosed by the grove would be safe.

Vainakoma confirms that it ''could'' be done. You can't put a fortification inside a weirwood grove, but the Empire could build a single [[Commission#Civilian_Commissions|civilian commission]] inside each substantial weirwood grove. Each weirwood bourse seat could be used to protect a single commission from the approaching menace.

There are two significant drawbacks. The first is cost - people don't build inside weirwood groves normally because of the costs. All the extra work involved, working round the existing trees and roots would double the labour cost of the construction from 3 crowns per wain to 6 crowns per wain.

The other issue is that the commission would be unlikely to continue to function if the region it was in was conquered by the vallorn. The building would not be destroyed, but if nobody can easily reach it, if it is literally surrounded by the vallorn, most commissions will still be inactive. But it wouldn't be destroyed and people could shelter there until they could be rescued.

Almost any civilian commission could be protected in this way with the exception of a [[great work]]. These structures traditionally stretch over the region and beyond, so they could not be built inside a grove of trees. The other limitation would be that only one commission per grove could be protected in this way.

==Ritual Magic==
* '''There are dozens of rituals that could be useful against the vallorn'''
* '''There are unlikely to be any new rituals that could help'''
* '''The Conclave could interdict the creation of new arcane projections'''
* '''The Summer Archmage could use plenipotentiary to ask Adamant to empower the Master of the Koboldi'''

There are dozens of rituals that will be essential when the vallorn is roused. Wards like [[Ward of the Black Waste]] and [[Wardens of the Black Waste]]. The recently codified [[Pillars of Adamant]] looks particularly useful for this. Rituals that [[Army#Rituals|enhance the strength of armies]] like [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], [[Knights of Glory]] or [[Brotherhood of Tian]] will be incredibly important in the coming war. Rituals that [[Fortification#Rituals|enhance fortifications]] like [[Ramparts of Ashlar]] will be just as important as will rituals that summon fortifications like [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]]

In theory it might be possible to create an [[arcane projection]] for a new ritual, but Vainakoma recommends against this approach in the ''strongest possible terms''. The problem is that every arcane projection requires 10 mana to create, and the majority of them fail. That is a massive cost in mana, resources that could have been spent attacking and defending against the vallorn with the tools the Empire already has. In the words of the notoriously cynic [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|''Leontes the Scribe'']] - "If every mana crystal wasted on an arcane projection were piled up in front of me, we'd have enough mana to defeat the vallorn twice over." Trying to find a new arcane projection that will defeat the vallorn is like wishing on a star - the odds of finding anything new that is worth the cost are vanishingly small.

<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Interdict Arcane Projections'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Declaration Type:''' Interdiction</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Ban the creation of all new arcane projections until the vallorn is destroyed so that the mana is available for the war against the enemy.</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Makes it illegal for Imperial magicians to create arcane projections.</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Constitution:''' The Court have confirmed this declaration would be constitutional.</td></tr>
</table></div>

That does present one opportunity that might help - albeit it, one that would be very difficult politically. The Sun Chamber could try to get the [[Conclave]] to [[interdiction|interdict]] the creation of new arcane projections. If magicians were forbidden from expending mana chasing new discoveries, they could instead devote all those resources to fighting the enemy. There will be plenty of time to wish on stars ''after'' the vallorn is defeated after all.
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Request access to adamant'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Plenipotentiary:''' Adamant</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Request negotiations with the King under the Mountain to provide supplies of adamant, the unbreakable stone, for the Master of the Koboldi</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
</table></div>
While it isn't ritual magic exactly, there is one other option that could be useful. The [[Master of the Koboldi]] is able to construct impressive buildings with the support of the [[Adamant|King under the Mountain]] - but those buildings are constructed with a mix of white granite and regular stone. If the Master were able to employ adamant, the almost-unbreakable stone found in the Summer realm, they could build fortifications and other commissions that were all but resistant to the destructive power of the vallorn. The garrison could be destroyed, the area could be captured, but the fortification would still be standing.

Could ''Deep Dragon'' be persuaded to give the Master of the Koboldi access to supplies of adamant? The Summer Archmage would need to use a plenipotentiary to try to negotiate it, but there is no doubt the eternal ''could'' do it, if he could be persuaded.

==Neighbours==
* '''The Empire knows vastly more than all its neighbours about the vallorn and how to fight it'''

While it is an excellent idea to seek the counsel of the Empire's neighbours, it is important to be realistic about what might be achieved. The Empire knows considerably more about the vallorn than all its neighbours. Have the [[Grendel]] or the [[Iron Confederacy]] have ever even encountered the vallorn? It is clear the Druj only recently started to probe the menace and everything they know about it, they stole from Urizeni spires.

Still it is worth considering the approaches neighbours do use, just in case they reveal new ideas. After a quick consultation with Naomi of Virtue's Rest, the Sun Chamber summarises the current situation.

*'''Jotun''': The Jotun hold [[Ashvale]] (formerly Liathaven) in the West, and it seems that their natural military strength means they have little issue managing the occasional bursts of Vallornspawn that might emanate from Liath's Heart. It is reported that they secured a boon from [[Surut]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] shortly after acquiring the territory. It remains unclear whether that was specifically to combat a threat from the vallorn or to merely to engage in more expedient deforestation.

*'''Thule''': The Thule have long-held [[Otkodov#Sküld|Sküld]], and use a version of [[Wither the Seed]] (though they claim theirs is "more efficient" compared to the "crude" imperial version) to keep the vallornheart of Emrys quiescent.

*'''Druj''': The heart of Bendol in the [[Sarangrave]] came to the Druj pre-contained with wards fashioned by the Terun (with a little help from [[Sadogua]]), and simply maintained the ancient wards (until recently).

*'''Axos''': Possibly inspired by the designs of the wards in the [[Sarangrave]], the Axou's methods of dealing with the vallorn of Cavan are [[Terunael_in_Axos#Part_One|well documented]] thanks to the [[Historical research|Department of Historical Research]] and the work of the [[Advisor on the Vallorn]] at the time, '''Siân Eternal'''.

Naomi is quick to point out that if the Empire can generate or maintain good relations with these powers (if not, perhaps, the Druj), treaties might be signed for mutual efforts to quell any damage that can be avoided. The Thule seem confident in their capabilities of containing the northernmost vallornheart, but having the garrison of the [[Sarangrave#Tower_of_the_Skink|Tower of the Skink]] provide aid in future entanglements with the vallorn of Bendol would undoubtedly be of great value.

After much consideration of the situation with their near neighbours, two things occur to the bright young minds of the Sun Chamber; both are regarding the strategy of containment employed by the Axos.

The Axos have allowed the vallorn to expand to fill the territory of [[Terunael_in_Axos#Venturing_into_Visokuma|Visokuma]], then surrounded the area with fortifications. This approach seems to work remarkably well for the Axos - albeit at great cost. It means they can't access the wealth and resources of the territory - but in return they suffer very little in the ways of attacks and what does occur is easily defeated by the fortifications they have built to ring the territory.

The problem that the sodality has spotted is that that strategy is going to fail badly if Visokuma is joined to the other vallornhearts. If that happens, the vallorn will come flooding out of the territory in force, quickly overrun the Axos fortifications, which are nothing like big enough to repel that kind of attack, wash over their completely insignificant military force, and every single one of them will be killed and eaten within a matter of a year or so at most. That will be a problem for the Empire, who will then have to deal with the Visokuma vallorn after it has devoured Axos, but it might be a problem for the Axou as well?

On the other hand, it does suggest an alternative strategy that might be employed. It's a bit controversial - a bit out of the ordinary, but isn't that what the Empire expects of the Sun Chamber after all? The sodality manifesto instructs them to ''"approach existing problems in new ways"''.

What if, instead of provoking the vallorn, instead of fighting it, instead of prodding it... the Empire adopted the Axou strategy. [[Miaren]] is fine, but the Empire could abandon [[Hercynia]], [[Brocéliande]], [[Sarangrave]], [[Liathaven]] and [[Therunin]]. Let the vallorn slowly expand to fill the territory, then build a few small fortifications around it to keep it contained, the way Axos do, then just... throw away the key?

It sounds a bit outré, but consider what could be achieved if the Empire wasn't constantly fighting the vallorn? Wasn't constantly preparing for an apocalyptic war against this enemy. Yes, they would lose some territory, but it would save thousands and thousands and thousands of lives. The Empire could focus on fighting the barbarians and securing its borders. Sceptics will argue it won't work, but the Axos have ''proved'' it works - it has worked just fine for them for close to a thousand years.
<div {{float}}>
<box>'''Tathenon's Blessing against the Spawn of Chaos'''<br>
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
'''Day; Magnitude 4/2;'''<br>
''Grants a character protection against vallorn miasma for the duration of a conjunction''<br>
At the completion of this ritual, the target is refreshed and purified by a light infusion of energies from the Day realm. They are protected from the worst effects of vallorn miasma. The target is not subject to the venomous effects of the vallorn miasma. They will not contract green lung, nor will they become a vallornspawn husk if they die while under this enchantment.

The target will experience a powerful roleplaying effect: they are more capable of clear, rational thought and working in an organised fashion with others to achieve their goals. They are also keenly aware of any imperfections or stains on their garments and feel an urge to keep them clean and well-presented.
</div>
</box>
</div>
Vainakoma confirms that such an approach would be theoretically possible, although he is not persuaded that it would be politically acceptable. Still, the appraisal did say to go wild. And the idea would remove the threat of the vallorn for good.

One less outrageous suggestion is to negotiate with the Thule to see if they might have some magic that could aid the Empire. The dragons have always been exceptionally cagey when discussing the vallorn with the Empire, but it turns out that two members of the sodality have become firm friends with a young warlock called ''Helgrindur of the Shining Eye'' and they happen to let slip that Tathenon has a ritual that provides the recipient with magical protection from the vallorn miasma. Apparently it is some kind of enchantment from the Day realm that stops the miasma from poisoning the target.

Of course Tathenon won't part with the ritual text for free, but it's not a powerful enchantment, so the Empire could just create their own. And the dragon will ''know'' that, so they'll have some idea of what it is worth. Presumably they would rather get something for a copy of the ritual text than nothing? Perhaps someone could speak with the Thule and enquire?

==From Theory to Practice==
Ultimately, it is clear that there will never be a "one size fits all" solution, other than that of the focused might of armies and fortifications. Instead, the acolytes of the Sun Chamber have compiled a list of extant opportunities to better prepare to defend from the malice of ''Terunael's Folly'' when it rears, as it did this season in the Sarangrave. Thanks to the ongoing [[Every path you know|highest calling]] of the Navarr, there is already much that could be done.

===Brocéliande===
This very season, the joint efforts of Navarr and the engineers of [[Holberg]] have resulted in a [[Viridian_nemesis#Holberg|plan]] to improve the defensibility of [[Brocéliande]], attracting the chaotoc energies of the Vallorn to a chosen battleground by nature will save other key infrastructure from damage.

===Sarangrave===
Similarly, the Navarr's [[Cup_of_choices|recent work with Urizen]] has resulted in a spate of opportunities that will help supplement the defence of key sites in the Territory. As mentioned previously in this report, the future relationship with the people of [[Axos]] will be pivotal to the eventual damage wrought in the east.

===Hercynia===
<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Fortify the Heartwood'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Fortification]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Boar's Dell, Brocéliande</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 [[weirwood]], 240 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 4 seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
Beyond building the [[Every_path_you_know#Beware_of_Dog|Grim Pyramid]], [[Hercynia]] remains somewhat undefended. While not a problem in recent years, the coming final battle against the vallorn and the potential end of the [[Ratify_Thule_Treaty_Spring_387YE|Thule peace treaty]] in four years means that now may be a better time than ever to invest in preventative measures. The [[Heartwood of the Great Vale]] would be a significant loss if overrun by the vallorn; while the seat would not be destroyed, losing access to its income would still be terrible. Some keen architectural students among the Sun Chamber put together a proposal to grow the weirwood of the place into a more natural fortification. If (and it is very much an if) the heart of Deer's Folly were to rouse, it is ''possible'' that a fortification constructed in this way ''might'' be more resistant to the vallorn's horrifying embrace. In any case, it might be easier to find the weirwood than more white granite given the [[A_lasting_commitment|renewed fervour]] in completing the Grand Inspiration of the Way.

The Great Forest Orcs are masters at manipulating the growth and use of weirwood, and are no friends of the vallorn. They have offered to help out if the Sun Chamber will agree to help them with a matter, which would reduce the construction costs by 10 weirwood and 30 crowns. Specifically, they are concerned about the alleged intent of the Navarr and the wider Empire to seek out the boons of the [[Surut|Ancestor Slayer]] as part of their war against the Vallorn and in doing so cause unspeakable desecration to the Great Forest. The Great Forest Orcs trust the [[Navarr]] however, and if they are willing to [[Navarr_culture_and_customs#Tattoos_and_Vows|swear an oath]] via their national assembly that they will not engage in themselves, and will oppose Imperial use of the ''Hated One'' to deforest any regions with his fire.

Survival

2026-07-21T21:56:13Z

Kirkbride: Created page with "Category:Winds of FortuneCategory:388YE SummerCategory:Appraisal <ic> "On your left!" shouted Fan, locked in battle with an orc with sunflowers for eyes. Gav dodged, pivoted and counter-thrusted into the remains of one he had dispatched earlier and thought neutralised, before freeing Fan from the orc's clutches. "Cheers!" They took a moment to dust themselves off, before signalling to the herald of Irra Harah and the Waterwalkers they were escorting that it w..."

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Appraisal]]
<ic>
"On your left!" shouted Fan, locked in battle with an orc with sunflowers for eyes. Gav dodged, pivoted and counter-thrusted into the remains of one he had dispatched earlier and thought neutralised, before freeing Fan from the orc's clutches. "Cheers!" They took a moment to dust themselves off, before signalling to the herald of Irra Harah and the Waterwalkers they were escorting that it was safe to continue along the path away from the main fight.

"You'd think it'd get easier after all these years"

"Are you calling me difficult?"

"The vallorn, Fan! The vallorn! On your right!"

Fan leant backwards, as a jagged branch as thick as one of the pillars that held up her house back in Hercynia sailed within a hair's breadth of her face, fully cleaving one of the braids from her hair off. She responded with a javelin that made a satisfying ''crunch'' as it sank deep into the chest of the humongous vallornspawn that threw it.

"Yes, well, i suspect that this might in fact ''be'' the easy part Gav. The Tainted Basilisk have just given us the smallest taste of the battle that is to come."
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sun Chamber colour.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
The [[Sun Chamber]] is the [[Imperial sodality]] formed of the Empire's newest citizens, those who represent the Empire's future. With them come fresh faces to Imperial politics, fresh ideas, and fresh opportunities. Last season, they chose to use their power to appraise an issue facing the Empire to look into how to protect the various vital pieces of Imperial infrastructure from the expansion of the [[Vallorn]]. Joining them was [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] of the Prognosticator's office, who volunteered help co-ordinate their efforts.
<div {{float}}>
<quote by="Sun Chamber">When the Vallorn expands it destroys all it touches. How might we protect resources, constructions and infrastructure in regions threatened by the Vallorn? Perhaps using living weirwood, ritual magic or learning from our international neighbours, but go wild!</quote></div>
==The Known Unknowns==
The research is difficult, not because there is a shortage of options - but for the opposite reason. There are already a sea of resources available to those who wish to defend against the Vallorn. The Navarr have been working on this problem for a long, long time after all. Ultimately, there are few good solutions that do not require the heavy investment of the armies of the [[Military Council]], supplemented by well-placed [[Fortification|fortifications]] to hold back the ''Green Tide'' from being able to reach Imperial Infrastructure in the first place.

While a great deal is [[A thousand years of longing|already known about the Vallorn]], there are also some questions that may well remain unanswered until the hearts are connected. The Empire has never seen a fully roused Vallorn at full strength in the way that it will be when the final war truly begins; each one is likely to be qualitatively different. The extent to which they have been drained by the trods, the natural geography and the resources it will consume and weaponise in its wake will all make each one potentially slightly different in the way each Imperial Army is slightly different. It would be invaluable to know what the definitive strength of the vallorn was going to be, what qualities each heart might possess, but at present there is no way to find that out.

Perhaps the most dangerous unanswered question is whether, once a Vallornheart has expanded and enveloped every region in a territory, it can then expand beyond the natural borders to threaten adjacent lands? There are two possible answers to that question which is distinctly unhelpful. In Axos, in Visokuma, the vallorn has expanded to fill the territory but has since become largely quiescent. There are occasional forays and attacks from the vallorn, but it doesn't surge out the way Imperial vallornhearts do when provoked or attacked. Perhaps when the vallorn is roused they will do likewise?

On the other hand the Visokuma vallorn does still try to expand - and that is before the vallorn has been roused. That rather suggests that it will become a lot more active once it is joined to the others - and that implies that the vallorn will expand beyond its starting territories. It would be good to know one way or the other what the actual answer is.

The problem is that there is simply no good way to answer these questions. The vallorn is a singular problem, unique to the Empire and the surrounding lands. There has never been a time when the vallorn was fully roused, not since the fall of Terunael at least. As a result, there is no obvious way to give definitive answers to such questions until it happens.

==Living Weirwood==
* '''The vallorn is known to avoid stands of weirwood trees'''
* '''The Empire could build a single civilian commission in size inside each weirwood grove'''
* '''Doing so would double the labour costs'''
* '''A commission would not function if the region was overrun by the vallorn, but it would not be destroyed'''
* '''A great work cannot be built inside a weirwood grove'''

From the studies the Sun Chamber have made, everyone agrees that stands of weirwood trees are unaffected by the vallorn. As it spreads, it grows round them, but they remain free of the miasma, and the growth never infests the ground where the weirwood trees take root.
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood Commission'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Any civilian commission except a great work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Any single weirwood grove (bourse resource)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' All regular labour costs are doubled</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' No change</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' If the region containing the commission is conquered by the vallorn the commission will be deactivated but not destroyed</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Freely available from now on</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Only a single commission can be built in each weirwood grove
</td></tr>
</table></div>
Nobody has ever found a way to use this as a weapon, not yet at least. As soon as you cut the weirwood down to use it, it appears to lose the properties that make it resistant to the corruption of the vallorn. Crucially commissions built using weirwood are just as vulnerable to the vallorn as any other.

"But what if we build a commission in the grove?" asks one of the more enterprising members of the sodality. Nobody has ever tried such a thing before, probably because it would be too expensive, but it's possible. And in theory it would work - the weirwood trees would keep the vallorn at bay and whatever was enclosed by the grove would be safe.

Vainakoma confirms that it ''could'' be done. You can't put a fortification inside a weirwood grove, but the Empire could build a single [[Commission#Civilian_Commissions|civilian commission]] inside each substantial weirwood grove. Each weirwood bourse seat could be used to protect a single commission from the approaching menace.

There are two significant drawbacks. The first is cost - people don't build inside weirwood groves normally because of the costs. All the extra work involved, working round the existing trees and roots would double the labour cost of the construction from 3 crowns per wain to 6 crowns per wain.

The other issue is that the commission would be unlikely to continue to function if the region it was in was conquered by the vallorn. The building would not be destroyed, but if nobody can easily reach it, if it is literally surrounded by the vallorn, most commissions will still be inactive. But it wouldn't be destroyed and people could shelter there until they could be rescued.

Almost any civilian commission could be protected in this way with the exception of a [[great work]]. These structures traditionally stretch over the region and beyond, so they could not be built inside a grove of trees. The other limitation would be that only one commission per grove could be protected in this way.

==Ritual Magic==
* '''There are dozens of rituals that could be useful against the vallorn'''
* '''There are unlikely to be any new rituals that could help'''
* '''The Conclave could interdict the creation of new arcane projections'''
* '''The Sumer Archmage could use plenipotentiary to ask Adamant to empower the Master of the Koboldi'''

There are dozens of rituals that will be essential when the vallorn is roused. Wards like [[Ward of the Black Waste]] and [[Wardens of the Black Waste]]. The recently codified [[Pillars of Adamant]] looks particularly useful for this. Rituals that [[Army#Rituals|enhance the strength of armies]] like [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], [[Knights of Glory]] or [[Brotherhood of Tian]] will be incredibly important in the coming war. Rituals that [[Fortification#Rituals|enhance fortifications]] like [[Ramparts of Ashlar]] will be just as important as will rituals that summon fortifications like [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]]

In theory it might be possible to create an [[arcane projection]] for a new ritual, but Vainakoma recommends against this approach in the ''strongest possible terms''. The problem is that every arcane projection requires 10 mana to create, and the majority of them fail. That is a massive cost in mana, resources that could have been spent attacking and defending against the vallorn with the tools the Empire already has. In the words of the notoriously cynic [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|''Leontes the Scribe'']] - "If every mana crystal wasted on an arcane projection were piled up in front of me, we'd have enough mana to defeat the vallorn twice over." Trying to find a new arcane projection that will defeat the vallorn is like wishing on a star - the odds of finding anything new that is worth the cost are vanishingly small.

<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Interdict Arcane Projections'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Declaration Type:''' Interdiction</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Ban the creation of all new arcane projections until the vallorn is destroyed so that the mana is available for the war against the enemy.</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Makes it illegal for Imperial magicians to create arcane projections.</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Constitution:''' The Court have confirmed this declaration would be constitutional.</td></tr>
</table></div>

That does present one opportunity that might help - albeit it, one that would be very difficult politically. The Sun Chamber could try to get the [[Conclave]] to [[interdiction|interdict]] the creation of new arcane projections. If magicians were forbidden from expending mana chasing new discoveries, they could instead devote all those resources to fighting the enemy. There will be plenty of time to wish on stars ''after'' the vallorn is defeated after all.
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Request access to adamant'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Plenipotentiary:''' Adamant</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Request negotiations with the King under the Mountain to provide supplies of adamant, the unbreakable stone, for the Master of the Koboldi</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
</table></div>
While it isn't ritual magic exactly, there is one other option that could be useful. The [[Master of the Koboldi]] is able to construct impressive buildings with the support of the [[Adamant|King under the Mountain]] - but those buildings are constructed with a mix of white granite and regular stone. If the Master were able to employ adamant, the almost-unbreakable stone found in the Summer realm, they could build fortifications and other commissions that were all but resistant to the destructive power of the Vallorn. The garrison could be destroyed, the area could be captured, but the fortification would still be standing.

Could ''Deep Dragon'' be persuaded to give the Master of the Koboldi access to supplies of adamant? The Summer Archmage would need to use a plenipotentiary to try to negotiate it, but there is no doubt the eternal ''could'' do it, if he could be persuaded.

==Neighbours==
* '''The Empire knows vastly more than all its neighbours about the Vallorn and how to fight it'''

While it is an excellent idea to seek the counsel of the Empire's neighbours, it is important to be realistic about what might be achieved. The Empire knows considerably more about the vallorn than all it's neighbours. Have the [[Grendel]] or the [[Iron Confederacy]] have ever even encountered the vallorn? It is clear the Druj only recently started to probe the menace and everything they know about it, they stole from Urizeni spires.

Still it is worth considering the approaches neighbours do use, just in case they reveal new ideas. After a quick consultation with Naomi of Virtue's Rest, the Sun Chamber summarises the current situation.

*'''Jotun''': The Jotun hold [[Ashvale]] (formerly Liathaven) in the West, and it seems that their natural military strength means they have little issue managing the occasional bursts of Vallornspawn that might emanate from Liath's Heart. It is reported that they secured a boon from [[Surut]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] shortly after acquiring the territory. It remains unclear whether that was specifically to combat a threat from the Vallorn or to merely to engage in more expedient deforestation.

*'''Thule''': The Thule have long-held [[Otkodov#Sküld|Sküld]], and use a version of [[Wither the Seed]] (though they claim theirs is "more efficient" compared to the "crude" imperial version) to keep the Vallornheart of Emrys quiescent.

*'''Druj''': The heart of Bendol in the [[Sarangrave]] came to the Druj pre-contained with wards fashioned by the Terun (with a little help from [[Sadogua]]), and simply maintained the ancient wards (until recently).

*'''Axos''': Posssibly inspired by the designs of the wards in the [[Sarangrave]], the Axou's methods of dealing with the Vallorn of Cavan are [[Terunael_in_Axos#Part_One|well documented]] thanks to the [[Historical research|Department of Historical Research]] and the work of the [[Advisor on the Vallorn]] at the time, '''Siân Eternal'''.

Naomi is quick to point out that if the Empire can generate or maintain good relations with these powers (if not, perhaps, the Druj), treaties might be signed for mutual efforts to quell any damage that can be avoided. The Thule seem confident in their capabilities of containing the northernmost Vallornheart, but having the garrison of the [[Sarangrave#Tower_of_the_Skink|Tower of the Skink]] provide aid in future entanglements with the Vallorn of Bendol would undoubtedly be of great value.

After much consideration of the situation with their near neighbours, two things occur to the bright young minds of the Sun Chamber; both are regarding the strategy of containment employed by the Axos.

The Axos have allowed the vallorn to expand to fill the territory of [[Terunael_in_Axos#Venturing_into_Visokuma|Visokuma]], then surrounded the area with fortifications. This approach seems to work remarkably well for the Axos - albeit at great cost. It means they can't access the wealth and resources of the territory - but in return they suffer very little in the ways of attacks and what does occur is easily defeated by the fortifications they have built to ring the territory.

The problem that the sodality has spotted is that that strategy is going to fail badly if Visokuma is joined to the other vallornhearts. If that happens, the vallorn will come flooding out of the territory in force, quickly overrun the Axos fortifications, which are nothing like big enough to repel that kind of attack, wash over their completely insignificant military force, and every single one of them will be killed and eaten within a matter of a year or so at most. That will be a problem for the Empire, who will then have to deal with the Visokuma vallorn after it has devoured Axos, but it might be a problem for the Axiou as well?

On the other hand, it does suggest an alternative strategy that might be employed. It's a bit controversial - a bit out of the ordinary, but isn't that what the Empire expects of the Sun Chamber after all? The sodality manifesto instructs them to ''"approach existing problems in new ways"''.

What if, instead of provoking the vallorn, instead of fighting it, instead of prodding it... the Empire adopted the Axou strategy. [[Miaren]] is fine, but the Empire could abandon [[Hercynia]], [[Brocéliande]], [[Sarangrave]], [[Liathaven]] and [[Therunin]]. Let the vallorn slowly expand to fill the territory, then build a few small fortifications around it to keep it contained, the way Axos do, then just... throw away the key?

It sounds a bit outré, but consider what could be achieved if the Empire wasn't constantly fighting the vallorn? Wasn't constantly preparing for an apocalyptic war against this enemy. Yes, they would lose some territory, but it would save thousands and thousands and thousands of lives. The Empire could focus on fighting the barbarians and securing its borders. Sceptics will argue it won't work, but the Axos have ''proved'' it works - it has worked just fine for them for close to a thousand years.
<div {{float}}>
<box>'''Tathenon's Blessing against the Spawn of Chaos'''<br>
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
'''Day; Magnitude 4/2;'''<br>
''Grants a character protection against Vallorn Miasma for the duration of a conjunction''<br>
At the completion of this ritual, the target is refreshed and purified by a light infusion of energies from the Day realm. They are protected from the worst effects of Vallorn Miasma. The target is not subject to the venomous effects of the vallorn miasma. They will not contract green lung, nor will they become a vallornspawn husk if they die while under this enchantment.

The target will experience a powerful roleplaying effect: they are more capable of clear, rational thought and working in an organised fashion with others to achieve their goals. They are also keenly aware of any imperfections or stains on their garments and feel an urge to keep them clean and well-presented.
</div>
</box>
</div>
Vainakoma confirms that such an approach would be theoretically possible, although he is not persuaded that it would be politically acceptable. Still, the appraisal did say to go wild. And the idea would remove the threat of the vallorn for good.

One less outrageous suggestion is to negotiate with the Thule to see if they might have some magic that could aid the Empire. The dragons have always been exceptionally cagey when discussing the vallorn with the Empire, but it turns out that two members of the sodality have become firm friends with a young warlock called ''Helgrindur of the Shining Eye'' and they happen to let slip that Tathenon has a ritual that provides the recipient with magical protection from the vallorn miasma. Apparently it is some kind of enchantment from the Day realm that stops the miasma from poisoning the target.

Of course Tathenon won't part with the ritual text for free, but it's not a powerful enchantment, so the Empire could just create their own. And the dragon will ''know'' that, so they'll have some idea of what it is worth. Presumably they would rather get something for a copy of the ritual text than nothing? Perhaps someone could speak with the Thule and enquire?

==From Theory to Practice==
Ultimately, it is clear that there will never be a "one size fits all" solution, other than that of the focused might of armies and fortifications. Instead, the acolytes of the Sun Chamber have compiled a list of extant opportunities to better prepare to defend from the malice of ''Terunael's Folly'' when it rears, as it did this season in the Sarangrave. Thanks to the ongoing [[Every path you know|highest calling]] of the Navarr, there is already much that could be done.

===Brocéliande===
This very season, the joint efforts of Navarr and the engineers of [[Holberg]] have resulted in a [[Viridian_nemesis#Holberg|plan]] to improve the defensibility of [[Brocéliande]], attracting the chaotoc energies of the Vallorn to a chosen battleground by nature will save other key infrastructure from damage.

===Sarangrave===
Similarly, the Navarr's [[Cup_of_choices|recent work with Urizen]] has resulted in a spate of opportunities that will help supplement the defence of key sites in the Territory. As mentioned previously in this report, the future relationship with the people of [[Axos]] will be pivotal to the eventual damage wrought in the east.

===Hercynia===
<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Fortify the Heartwood'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Fortification]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Boar's Dell, Brocéliande</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 [[weirwood]], 240 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 4 seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
Beyond building the [[Every_path_you_know#Beware_of_Dog|Grim Pyramid]], [[Hercynia]] remains somewhat undefended. While not a problem in recent years, the coming final battle against the Vallorn and the potential end of the [[Ratify_Thule_Treaty_Spring_387YE|Thule peace treaty]] in four years means that now may be a better time than ever to invest in preventative measures. The [[Heartwood of the Great Vale]] would be a significant loss if overrun by the Vallorn; while the seat would not be destroyed, losing access to its income would still be terrible. Some keen architectural students among the Sun Chamber put together a proposal to grow the weirwood of the place into a more natural fortification. If (and it is very much an if) the heart of Deer's Folly were to rouse, it is ''possible'' that a fortification constructed in this way ''might'' be more resistant to the Vallorn's horrifying embrace. In any case, it might be easier to find the weirwood than more white granite given the [[A_lasting_commitment|renewed fervour]] in completing the Grand Inspiration of the Way.

The Great Forest Orcs are masters at manipulating the growth and use of weirwood, and are no friends of the Vallorn. They have offered to help out if the Sun Chamber will agree to help them with a matter, which would reduce the construction costs by X weirwood and 3X crowns. Specifically, they are concerned about the alleged intent of the Navarr and the wider Empire to seek out the boons of the [[Surut|Ancestor Slayer]] as part of their war against the Vallorn and in doing so cause unspeakable desecration to the Great Forest. The Great FOrest Orcs trust the [[Navarr]] however, and if they are willing to [[Navarr_culture_and_customs#Tattoos_and_Vows|swear an oath]] via their national assembly that they will not engage in themselves, and will oppose Imperial use of the ''Hated One'' to deforest any regions with his fire.