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Template:Synod Further Reading

2026-04-09T07:05:11Z

RichardRaynor:

==Further Reading==
<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Core Reading</p>
* [[Synod]]
* [[Assembly]]
* [[Cardinal]]
* [[Member of the Synod]]
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Judgements</p>
* [[Judgement|Judgements]]
** [[Appointment]]
** [[Castigation]]
** [[Challenge]]
** [[Change of doctrine|Change of Doctrine]]
** [[Exaltation]]
** [[Inquisition]]
** [[Mandate]]
** [[Penance]]
** [[Proscription]]
** [[Recognition]]
** [[Revocation]]
** [[Rewarding]]
** [[Statement of principle|Statement of Principle]]
** [[Veto]]
** [[Vindication]]
** [[Writ of consecration|Writ of Consecration]]
** [[Writ of Excommunication]]
<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Additional Information</p>
* Synod Positions
** [[Conscience of the Senate]]
** [[Gatekeeper]]
** [[Virtue Inquisitor]]
** [[Tribune of the Synod]]
* [[Religious crime|Religious Crime]]
* [[Imperial Theology]]
* Inspirations
** [[Paragons and exemplars|Paragons and Exemplars]]
** [[Known exemplars|Known Exemplars]]
** [[Signs of the paragon and exemplar|Signs of the Paragon and Exemplar]]
** [[Schools of thought|Schools of Thought]]
** [[Inspirational location|Inspirational Location]]
</div><br>
Click ''Expand'' to see a summary of judgements and other pages related to the Synod.
[[Category:Commonwealth]]

[[Category: Synod]]

Category:Inspirations

2025-09-26T19:11:18Z

RichardRaynor: /* Paragons and Exemplars */ Amika, Ravadi, Ore Hills, Alberto, Eleanor, Tom

===Paragons and Exemplars===
{| class="wikitable sortable" style = "text-align:center"
! style="width: 20%"|Name
!! style="width: 10%"| Virtue
!! style="width: 10%"|Status
!! style="width: 30%"|Recognised
|-
| style = "text-align:left"|Achilles of Damakan's Forge ||Prosperity|||Exemplar|||[[382YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement 18|382YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Adelmar the Lion]] || Ambition || Exemplar || 176YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Aldones di Sarvos]] || Ambition || Paragon || 23YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Alberto Acciai || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_4|387YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Amika Acciai || Ambition || Exemplar || [[386YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement_4|386YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Atuman]] || Ambition || Exemplar || Pre-Imperial paragon ratified 3YE. Exemplar 23YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Atun]] || Wisdom || Paragon || Pre-Imperial ratified 3YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Avigliana di Sarvos]] || Wisdom || Exemplar || 76YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Berechiah]] || Vigilance || Exemplar || 302YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Bolstering Bill (Exemplar)|Bolstering Bill]] || Loyalty || Exemplar || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Chernobog of the Vor’azi || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[380YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements|380YE Spring]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left"| [[Cora Holdfast]] || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements|379YE Summer]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Damaris of Cantiarch’s Hold || Courage || Exemplar || [[377YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements|377YE Summer]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Dogri Thulebane || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[386YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement_5|386YE Summer]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Torchbearer#History|Didactylos of Delving]] || Wisdom || Exemplar || Unrecorded, after 72YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Elayne Silverlark|Lady Elayne Silverlark]] || Loyalty || Exemplar || Pre-Imperial ratified 18YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Eleanor Novarion || Pride || Exemplar || [[387YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement_5|387YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Emperor Ahraz]] || Courage || Exemplar || [[378YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements| 378YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Empress Richilde]] || Pride || Paragon || 219YE (72YE Exemplar)
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Gerallt Brackensong || Pride || Exemplar || [[382YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement 6|382YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Gilda Ashwine]] || Courage || Exemplar || Unrecorded. Renounced 106YE. Recognised again 186YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Good Walder]] || Prosperity || Paragon || 0YE - 22YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Inga Tarn]] || Courage || Exemplar || 308YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Isaella]] || Courage || Exemplar || 213YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Isenbrad]] || Wisdom || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Joshua Benson || Vigilance || Exemplar || [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements|379YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Juha the Cave Spider || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[384YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement 3|384YE Autumn Equinox]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Kala]] || Wisdom || Exemplar || 28YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Kethry]] || Pride || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Korl]] || Courage || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Lepidus]] || Pride || Paragon || Pre-Imperial ratified 18YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Long Tom Goodfellow]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || 56YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Mani of the Scions of Atun || Wisdom || Exemplar || [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements| 379YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Margaret of Meade || Ambition || Exemplar || [[Old_ways#Margaret_of_Meade|272YE]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Mother Od also known as [[Mitwold#Oddmire|Odd of Odd's End]] || Pride || Exemplar || [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements| 376YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Navarr || Wisdom || Exemplar || [[381YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements| 381YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Nicolo Barossa]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || [[377YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements|377YE Winter]]. Failed renouncement [[378YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements| 378YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Olga of Miekarova || Vigilance || Exemplar || [[377YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements|377YE Autumn]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Olwyn the Witness || Pride || Exemplar || [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements|376YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Ore Hills Rebellion Leaders || Pride || Exemplar || [[386YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement_5|386YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Ozren de Orzel || Pride || Exemplar || [[385YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement_3|385YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Permion]] || Courage || Exemplar || Highborn Civil War
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Ratibor of Temeschwar]] || Ambition || Exemplar || [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements|379YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Ravadi Founders' Dance || Vigilance || Exemplar || [[386YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement_4|386YE Winter]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Skywise Rykana || Wisdom || Exemplar || [[382YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement 17|382YE Autumn]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Speaker for the Dead || Pride|| Exemplar || [[385YE Spring_Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement_3|385YE Spring]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[The Little Mother]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || 50BE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[The Marked]] || Loyalty || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[The Sentinel]] || Vigilance || Paragon || Pre-Imperial ratified 1YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Thorn || Ambition || Exemplar || [[380YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements| 380YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Thrace || Ambition || Exemplar || [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements|379YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Tian]] || Ambition || Paragon || 1YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Tom Drake || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[387YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement_4|387YE Autumn]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Zemress]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || 223YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Zoria]] || Wisdom || Paragon || Unrecorded
|}

Known exemplars

2025-09-25T09:20:05Z

RichardRaynor: /* Ravadi Founder's Dance */

==Overview==
There are countless exemplars who are known to have been [[recognition|recognised]] by the [[Imperial Synod]], but whose life and deeds are not yet renowned throughout the Empire. The list is updated whenever new exemplars are recognised by the Imperial Synod or records of past exemplars are recovered.

==Recent Exemplars==
This is a definitive list of all the exemplars recognised in recent times.
===Gerallt Brackensong===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] by the Synod in the [[382YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Skywise Rykana===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod in the [[382YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Achilles of Damakan's Forge===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod in the [[382YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements ]].

===Mani of the Scions of Atun===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]]. Initially rejected by the Synod in the [[378YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Joshua Benson===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Vigilance]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Chernobog of the Vor’azi===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod in the [[380YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===[[Cora Holdfast]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod.

===[[Emperor Ahraz]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod in the [[378YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].
===Navarr===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod in the [[381YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Thorn===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod in the [[380YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Thrace===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===[[Ratibor of Temeschwar]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].

===[[Nicolo Barossa]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod in the [[377YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]]. An attempt to revoke the status was rejected by the Synod in the
[[378YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Olga of Miekarova===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Vigilance]] by the Synod in the [[377YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Damaris of Cantiarch’s Hold===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod in the [[377YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Mother Od===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] by the Synod in the [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]]. Also known as [[Mitwold#Oddmire|Odd of Odd's End]].

===Olwyn the Witness===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] by the Synod in the [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]].
===Juha the Cave Spider===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod during the [[384YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement 3|384YE Autumn Equinox]].
===Speaker for the Dead===
One of the divine family of the Free Folk, recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] during the [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_3|385YE Spring Equinox]]. Further information about the Speaker can be found in the [[On the Speaker for the Dead|historical research document]] commissioned by the [[Lepidean Librarian]].

===Ozren de Orzel===
Recognised as an exemplar of Pride by the Synod during the [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_3|Winter Solstice 385YE]].

===Dogri Thulebane===
Recognised as an exemplar of Loyalty by the Synod during the [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_5|Summer Solstice 386YE]].

===Amika Acciai===
Recognised as an exemplar of Ambition by the Synod during the [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_4|Summer Solstice 386YE]].

===Ravadi Founders' Dance===
Recognised as an exemplar of Vigilance by the Synod during the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_4|Winter Solstice 386YE]].

===Leaders of the Ore Hills Rebellion===
Recognised as an exemplar of Pride by the Synod during the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_5|Winter Solstice 386YE]]. Their names were Esme Hooper, Mary Digger, Ezekial "Zeke" Boon, Henry Killinghall, Maggie John, and Tom John.

===Alberto Acciai===
Recognised as an exemplar of Loyalty by the Synod during the [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_4|Spring Equinox 387YE]].

===Eleanor Novarion===
Recognised as an exemplar of Pride by the Synod during the [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_5|Spring Equinox 387YE]].

===Tom Drake===
Recognised as an exemplar of Loyalty by the Synod during the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_4|Autumn Equinox 387YE]].

==Past Exemplars==
This is a list of all the exemplars recognised in the years before [[Empress Britta]]'s death for whom records survive.

===[[Adelmar the Lion]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod.

===[[Atuman]]===
Originally recognised as a paragon of [[Ambition]] by the Synod, later reduced to an exemplar.

===[[Avigliana di Sarvos]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod.

===[[Bolstering Bill (Exemplar)|Bolstering Bill]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod.

===[[Berechiah]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Vigilance]] by the Synod.

===[[Torchbearer#History|Didactylos of Delving]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod.

===[[Gilda Ashwine]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[Inga Tarn]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[Isaella]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[Kala]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod.

===[[Elayne Silverlark|Lady Elayne Silverlark]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod.

===[[Long Tom Goodfellow]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod.
===[[Old_ways#Margaret_of_Meade|Margaret of Meade]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod.

===[[Permion]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[The Little Mother]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod.

===[[Zemress]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod.

{{Synod Further Reading}}
[[Category:Inspirations]]

387YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements

2025-09-23T20:25:35Z

RichardRaynor: /* Judgement 22 */

[[Category: Synod]] [[Category:Synod Results]] [[Category: Synod Judgements]][[Category: 387YE Autumn]]
==Overview==
During the Autumn Equinox 387YE, the Imperial Synod raised TBC judgements.

<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">
{|
|+ <big>'''Judgement Quick Links'''</big>
! Judgement Type
! Amount
|-
|[[#Statement of Principle|Statement of Principle]]|| TBC
|-
|[[#Mandate|Mandate]] || 8
|-
|[[#Writ of Consecration|Writ of Consecration]] || 1
|-
|[[#Inquisition|Inquisition]] || 23
|-
|[[#Sanction|Sanction]] || 26
|-
|[[#Recognition|Recognition]] || 3
|-
|[[#Exaltation|Exaltation]] || 6
|-
|[[#Appointment|Appointment]] || 17
|-
|[[#Rewarding|Rewarding]] || 22
|-
|}
</div>
==Statement of Principle==

==Mandate==
Eight [[mandate|mandates]] were presented to the assemblies during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 6===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' Mercy is weakness. Mercy shows the enemy your limits. We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 50 doses of liao to urge all Loyal Urizeni to hunt down the Disciples of Sulemaine and show them the blade. Find your enemy's limits and go beyond them
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn (66-0)

===Judgement 17===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Gwen Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom is finding the right question. We send Gwen Tendfallen with 50 doses of liao to encourage devotees of Wisdom to carefully investigate false virtues. Test what we learn about malign spiritual auras is the highest calling of this assembly
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (128-236)
__TOC__
===Judgement 64===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Judgement:''' Seek out the poison! We send Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka with 75 doses of liao to urge Varushkans to move against those who would spread blasphemy and heresy. Tolerate no folly and guide the law's hand to inflict the punishment that has been earned.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (360-0)

===Judgement 83===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Solas of the Spire of the Waxing Sun
* '''Judgement:''' Captains of Urizen! There is a poison in our fields. The Disciples of Sulemaine threaten by spreading the Blasphemy of Hatred, an idea long since tested and discarded as lacking. We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 50 doses of liao to urge all to go forth and excise this pestilence from our home.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (258-0)

===Judgement 127===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Cosimo Argyra
* '''Judgement:''' Be alert to all dangers; within and without! The Silent Manse in the Sarcophan Enclave is a spiritual threat to the wellbeing of all. The only way to avoid blasphemy and heresy is to have nothing to do with this profane temple. We send Cosimo Argyra with 25 doses of liao to urge all Imperial citizens planning to visit the estates to express only polite and civil disinterest in their unvirtuous religion.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (216-0)

===Judgement 128===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark
* '''Judgement:''' The meeting hall at Gull Island will be completed for the Winter Solstice. Yet until a meeting has taken place there it is just a hall. We send Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark with 25 doses of liao to spread word of the Hall both in Wintermark and in the lands of the Jotun. Let the Ghodi bring their people to join with the folk of Wintermark to see what bridge may be built.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (284-0)

===Judgement 140===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Torin
* '''Judgement:''' We send Eevi of the Gadrai with 5 doses of liao to urge those who know Valdr Grieversonn well to encourage him to talk to the Assembly
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (284-0)

===Judgement 166===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Vasilmir Radovanovna Esskivic
* '''Judgement:''' Seek out falsehood and expose the truth. We send Vasilmir Radovanovna Esskivic with 25 doses of liao to urge Wintermarkers and Varushkans to work together to seek out and oppose the false Virtues at every turn. Let us seek out the poison in our neighbours fields.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (292-0)

==Writ of Consecration==
One [[writ of consecration]] was presented to the assemblies during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 21===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Alfredo Barossa
* '''Judgement:''' In the days before the Empire, the Jotun and Wintermark erected a stone, which became known simply as the Meeting Place. For many generations Jotun and Empire could meet there, be Loyal to their values and bind themselves with oaths - over time a hall grew up on the site and honour and virtue flowed from it. In recent times that hall was destroyed and the stone smashed. Ignominious death and dishonour have abounded between Jotun and Imperials since. Now at last, the Empire and Jotun have jointly rebuilt the feasting hall and wish to call it the Meeting Place once more. This is a place of Honour and Virtue, a place to be Loyal to our values, ourselves, the oaths we swear and the treaties we sign. Having sought the Jotun's agreement, I ask the Assembly for a Writ of Consecration, to dedicate part of the site to Loyalty using a dose of True Liao donated by Erland, in the hope the Jotun accept this offer in the spirit it is intended.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (412-26)

==Inquisition==
Twenty-three [[inquisition|inquisitions]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 9===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' Aster Aceae. You served as Imperial Chaplain Consular during Fintan Nighthaven’s tenure as Ambassador to Axos. We will discuss your work and what can be learned from it
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Imperial Inquisitor]]

===Judgement 31===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Daisy of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement:''' Following Judgement 195 of the Winter Summit we are seeking to find the causes of the rifts in Highguard so that “concrete steps” can be taken to resolve this. We therefore call Zadok, former general of the Valiant Pegasus army to inquisition at a mutually agreeable time, meeting at the Highguard chapel to find out what happened to divide the nation
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (216-22)

===Judgement 38===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Nim of Ebon’s Hall
* '''Judgement:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost, you have served as your Assembly and now you move to serve your Empire. I call you to inquisition so that we may judge the lessons of your time as Inquisitor of Wisdom - lessons that inform your actions as Imperial Inquisitor. 9pm Friday - Ebon’s Hall Chapel, Highguard.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (186-0)

===Judgement 39===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' Luca i Taziel i Riqueza, Cardinal of Prosperity, I exalt you for taking on the difficult task of Inquisiting and Condemning Aunty Hem for being Dedicated to Anarchy, and for Dedicating others to it. I am alarmed, however, that you waited an entire season after learning about her Dedication before taking action. Let us talk about that, ponder her career, and undertake a Vigil without ourselves to track down exactly what happened here, and how we can Vigilantly and Prosperously do better. Day: Saturday. Time: 12pm. Location: The Hub.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (142-0)

===Judgement 55===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Elagabala
* '''Judgement:''' In my capacity as Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, I call Knight-Captain Aletheia Wooder of the Twisted Rose to inquisition. This is regarding their commissioning a casting of Treacher’s Quill to treat with Agramant, in order to expedite the acquisition of a favour of the Howlwer in the Wastes held by the manticore the Earl of Groves. We will address the Knight-Captains further intent with the Horned Manticore, and the Virtue, specifically Loyalty, inspiring their actions. We will not address the legality or morality of the matter - that is for the magistrates. It shall be at 2pm on the Saturday of the Autumn summit in the Netherwatch tent in the Urizen camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (918-0)

===Judgement 81===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Abreya de Lagriffe
* '''Judgement:''' At the request of the Earl of House Castellan, I call Leon of House Castellan to inquisition to question his ambition or lack thereof in regards to his disinterest in a test of mettle. To be held at <u>2pm Saturday</u> at House de Lagriffe.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (80-78)

===Judgement 106===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' I call Cadenza i Fontanilla i Riqueza to Inqusition to discuss her prosperity and her flame, 3pm Saturday The Spilled Tea, Brass Coast
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (64-0)

===Judgement 109===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Jedediah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' Myshki Marishka Letuchaya, you are not the first to have your Virtue etched into the heavens. But I know well that to achieve such feats, you must have made great ripples on the ground. Pride uplifts. Inquisition tests.I will see you at 11am, Sunday, of this very summit, at your National Tent
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]]

===Judgement 119===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Callista
* '''Judgement:''' I call Vossk of Zenith Ascendant, Archmage of Autumn, to inquisition at Winter 387 to bring to light the virtue of their actions leading to their appointment, and their ambitions going forward. Time and place to be arranged at Zenith Ascendant camp at the start of the summit (due to the reactive commitments of their role)
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1000-0)

===Judgement 133===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Ser Gaheris Torawyr
* '''Judgement:''' I call Odd Twice-born of Wintermark to inquisition, to discuss and learn of their actions and use of their arcane prowess and knowledge under the eyes of Pride and Virtue. The Promise Camp, Dawn 10pm Saturday, Autumn Equinox
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (62-0)

===Judgement 135===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Emil Rook
* '''Judgement:''' With mutual agreement, I summon Finna of Dawn to inquisition at 12:30pm on Sunday, at the bottom of the League high street, in light of new evidence that may alter previous judgements
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (200-10)

===Judgement 159===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' Viviane Barossa, I call you to inquisition at the summit to come to discuss the Virtue of your actions and Oath concerning the Hallowing of Peace. Much has been said, much has happened. Let us see if the consequences are worth it
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (870-92)

===Judgement 172===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' John Carter
* '''Judgement:''' I call Ematius, Archmage of Winter, to inquisition. The time will be 1pm, Sunday, next summit as agreed. Ematius shall answer questions in capacity of Ambassador to Winter, regarding decisions made concerning the Knights of Tharim and their activity in Upwold. The people of Upwold, while compensated, need and deserve answers. We are going to start a dialogue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (98-0)

===Judgement 173===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' I call Lugh Llaw Whisperleaf to inquisition at 1:30pm Sunday, this summit, at Iniska’s Pantry to discuss his work removing heretical idols from the general population in Anvil.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]]

===Judgement 177===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Alastair of Esther’s Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' I call Gaelen Embercast to inquisition. In regard to recent accusations of corruption, I seek to shine my vigilant lantern upon him to uncover the truth. Saturday, Winter Solstice 387, Hub Annex, 1pm
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]]

===Judgement 187===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Nim of Ebon’s Hall
* '''Judgement:''' <u>GISLI, THE PROVIDER</u> You have been found by the insight committee to have shrouded your soul from the view of our insighting priest. Face questioning at Ebon’s Hall at 1pm Sunday
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]]

===Judgement 189===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' I call Bloodcrow Knott to inquisition at 13:00 Sunday of the Autumn summit about publications and statements they have made about the Way and virtue. Observes by appointment of them at the First Legion Tent in the Imperial Orc camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (102-10)

===Judgement 190===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' As Arcane Inquisitor, I call the Shadowed Torchbearer Vanja Oddsbreaker to inquisition at the Winter solstice, a time and place to be decided
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Arcane Inquisitor]]

===Judgement 198===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' I call Ida the River to inquisition at the Winter summit 387YE at 15:00 on Saturday at the Hospital. This is to talk of the courage in their life - engaged in care for others, advising others, and helping the Empire face to darkness
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inqusitor of Courage]]

===Judgement 199===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Abreya de Lagriffe
* '''Judgement:''' I call the sect of <u>Sular’s Spyglass</u> to inquisition and request the presence of <u>Oradora, Teresa and Apprendio</u> at the next summit of Anvil. As I am to understand, Azir i Shartha i Riqueza - the predecessor of my new position as Inquisitor of Ambition - tried to offer the sect a way to conclude their investigations without inquisition which has been refused. As such, it is my duty to investigate the alleged activity of the false virtue of vengeance within this sect
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]]

===Judgement 201===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement:''' I call Neala Blackhawk to inquisition at winter summit at a time and place to be agreed with them. We will discuss accusations of compelled loyalty in your nation and how your actions align with the oaths you have sworn
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]]

===Judgement 207===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Martin Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' I shall be inquisiting Tom Appleseeder of King's Stoke, 2pm Sun, Winter Solstice, Hub Annex. The Vigilance Inquisitor will attend. All those with opinion on his vigilance, of any nation, are encouraged to attend and be given time to speak.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (228-0)

===Judgement 208===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pete Tong
* '''Judgement:''' I seek, as proxy of Basilisk of the Bourse, for the inqusiiton of Juniper du Froste regarding the intentions and use their newly held and heavily politicised mithril seat in the Fangs so that all can see the virtues which guide their choices during their tenure.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as proxy [[Basilisk of the Bourse]]

==Sanction==
Twenty-six [[sanction|sanctions]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 8===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Fintan Nighthaven: you have been judged and found sorely wanting. Your blatant blasphemy has endangered not only the souls of thousands of Axou, but of the Empire. You have abused your priestly powers to pervert the sanctity of true liao in creating a true hallowing of Peace. You have confessed to being dedicated to each false virtue, save fear and hope, and have created 31 false hallowings you have not destroyed. Your vanity project ends here, wolf.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (326-24)

===Judgement 10===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Sam Wych-Elm. You are a hypocrite, who has stood on the side of Vigilance and still fallen face first into the poison of your neighbour's field. How disappointing. As you called for the condemnation of the Cardinals for the carrying of false hallowings so too do I call you now for willingly dedicating yourself to Vengeance to the strength of four priests. Playing the merry fool will not spare you of consequence, blasphemer.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1536-126)

===Judgement 15===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Following my inquisition of Yosephus Morningson, I have determined that the creed of the Temple of Balance, which he preaches is neither blasphemous nor does it promote the Unitarian Heresy. It is, however, avowed Excessionism. He preaches that a person can have too much Ambition compared to their Courage, and vice verse, and thus that all should seek to stymie their own excellence in pursuit of mediocrity across the board. The heretical creed of the Temple of Balance is a festering wound that must be cut out. As he is the primary preacher at Anvil, we must therefore condemn the heretic Yosephus Morningson as well.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1378-180)

===Judgement 22===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Callista of the Dark Shard
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Able the Taller exhibits <u>exemplary loyalty</u> in their actions. Their loyalty to the cause of "Ending the Druj" <u>inspires others</u> to join with their ambitions. In this instance, their ambition was to solve the supply problem in Urizen that restricts army formation. With their allies, they formed the Urizen Trading Consortium and employed their <u>mastery of the Autumn realm</u>. to manipulate heralds into offering an army of heralds to Urizen. Once this offer was made, they leveraged their <u>personal contacts, prosperity, and sheer determination</u> to not only build it, but built it in a single season: an <u>unprecedented accomplishment</u>. The Synod commends this <u>AMBITIOUS achievement</u> and encourages citizens to learn from Able's ability to take a vast ambition and break it down into steps that bring the unreachable into their grasp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1092-66)

===Judgement 26===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' In relation to the inquisition of Sen. Ostrik Vulpe on Saturday of the Summer Solstice. It was good to talk, old friend, your virtue is on the correct path and I am pleased. Nevertheless, we all fall short of the Path. I identified two areas in which your soul can be brightened, which I charge you to address this summit. 1) While your Ambition is palpable you should take care to not only draw esteem from others. Thus I charge you to seek the anointing of the Affirmation of Pride. 2) In speaking, I saw that your soul bears a particular weakness to the malign spiritual influence of fear. Your should not fear the night. I charge you to hallow a lantern with the Hallowing of Adelmar, to banish your fear of shadow.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (684-50)

===Judgement 27===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Almodis of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Vindication of Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum. Olyvar was asked by the Imperial Inquisitor to look into the issue surrounding the dedication of a then General of Highguard being dedicated to a false virtue. Olyvar was unfortunately too busy to address this, which is unfortunate, but not unvirtuous. Olyvar provided helpful information that he had been told that Achseh had been dedicated by the Exarch of the Sentinel's Tower and the contradicting version that it had been someone in a Bar. He was also told that the Exarch was executed bt the Magistrate, but we have been unable to find a record of this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (562-170)

===Judgement 28===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Jash
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Penance of Aemon Exarch of Suns of Couros. Sanctions following inquisition should be given when a lack of Virtue is demonstrated, that should then be clear on the Judgement of Sanction. Aemon stated at the inquisition that to ask people to vote on their feelings about a person or without the full information would "run the risk of Vengeance". Jack Twice drowned is a controversial figure at times, but the only fault stated in Judgement 51 of the spring summit can be summarised that he was calling people names. If we are to be Vigilant against Vengeance, then we should do better. A public acknowledgement that words in a Synod Judgement matter and a commitment to do better would be a Virtuous penance.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (366-146)

===Judgement 29===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Talos of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Penance for Keziah of the Suns of Couros. Keziah virtuously took on the role of working with Achseh, former General of Highguard, as a guide priest to bring her back to the path of Virtue having been dedicated to a false virtue. Keziah succeeded in this role, but failed in one important area. Keziah was not Vigilant enough to identify if others in that Chapter had fallen from the path of Virtue. Keziah did not find out who dedicated Achseh to Hatred. As a penance, Keziah should work with the Highguard Insight Committee, reporting to Julius Solomon of Ebon's Hall, for at least a year to learn to be more Vigilant.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (464-214)

===Judgement 30===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Archaron
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Vindication of Veikko, former Cardinal of Loyalty. Veikko's involvement in the issues in Highguard has been to support members of his Assembly and to try and resolve the rift. His actions were entirely Virtuous. Achseh, at Inquisition, stated that the then Exarch of Sentinel's Tower had dedicated her to a False Virtue, which she only agreed to as they threatened violence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (356-32)

===Judgement 33===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Icarus
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Penance for Jared of the Sentinel's Tower - There is no clarity about how Achseh became dedicated to a false virtue. It has been stated that other member of the Sentinel's Tower have also been in this way. Jared has demonstrated a lack of Vigilance by not seeking the answers from those closest to him. His penance is to give the names of all people in his own Chapter who have been dedicated to a false virtue along with the name of the person who dedicated them on each or any occasion. Details for current members should be if they have ever been dedicated to a false virtue, for former or deceased members this should cover the last 5 years. The whereabouts of these people should be provided. This information must be raised in a judgement in the Highguard National Assembly by the end of the spring summit of 388. If it does not pass, so is not accepted as adequate by the National Assembly, then this should be escalated.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (446-258)
* '''Note:''' There is no legal requirement for Jared of the Sentinel's Tower to use his judgement in this way.


==Recognition==
Three [[recognition|recognitions]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 4===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Father Edmund
* '''Judgement:''' Tom Drake, Exemplar of Loyalty. Inspiration - the Drakes still fight in his name! Legacy - founded the Military Council! Salvation - Fought Alderei the Fair, dying to save Varushka and the Empire! Benevolence - sacrificed his pride for the sovereignty of the Marches, and all Imperial nations! Through times of great change, Tom Drake remained always Loyal and devoted to the Marches.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1280-162)

===Judgement 37===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tarquinius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' While it has not been raised since at least before Britta, the law is clear that the Synod has the option to recognise a person in this fashion if they truly deserve it. I name Fintan Nighthaven as a false Exemplar of Peace. His choices make it clear what the path of peace looks like and where it leads. The signs are not required or expected to recognise an exemplar of a false virtue, but his actions have been impactful at the level of legacy (obtaining ilium and true liao to create a peace relic) or inspiration (arranging the peace hallows for our cardinals)
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (620-210)

===Judgement 50===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Nisha Strascovich
* '''Judgement:''' Starac Orzel is a living Exemplar of Pride and strong enough in mind, body and virtue to carry this weight. Liberation: Starac's selfless sacrifice, repeatedly facing death for the Empire, could be viewed as transcending mortal ties - readiness for spiritual liberation. Recognition: Starac has been repeatedly honoured in key Imperial roles, Gatekeeper, Quartermaster, General, Field Marshal, Battle Mage of Dawn and Voice of Varushka. His is success in war, diplomacy, and magic make him a shining example of Imperial Virtue. Benevolence: Starac saved the children of Dark Heart, prevented unnecessary bloodshed, made reforms as quartermaster improving military budgets, ensured equitable access to Summer ritual and funded the Statue of Eleonaris himself when Imperial funds were short benefiting the Empire. Inspiration: Starac is celebrated for inspiring troops to persevere at Holberg, earning him the Equine Rod from Barien and raising national morale. His creative efforts have enriched Imperial culture and spirit, and his influence reaches from motivating Dawn in Anvil to uplifting many others to realize their hidden potential. Miracle: The prophetic nature of his art (Malsanguino), the miraculous return of the Knights of Glory ritual, and the spontaneous founding of the Golden Causeway all border on miraculous events guided by Virtue. Pilgrimage: Starac undertook a spiritual journey walking the consecrated Maze of Zoria. His work across several Imperial nations shows his commitment to both spiritual and physical service. Legacy: He founded the first Dawn Glory Square in 378YE, nurturing it for a decade into a central hub of Dawn's culture. He helped rediscover and legitimize the Maze of Zoria through civil service channels. Starac has retrieved lost relics and ritual and created ripples where he has inspired others.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn (20-0)

==Exaltation ==
Six [[exaltation|exaltations]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 18===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Melchior of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' Corwyn Heartsbane was presented to this assembly as a potential living exemplar of Courage. Having carried out his inquisition I now call his exaltation. Whether he should be named exemplar is a future decision for this assembly but for now his tireless dedication to the path of courage should be a beacon to us all. Amongst other acts he has led the creation of the Vallornguard and the construction of the Navarri wayhouses inspiring others to follow his lead and take the first steps with him. I ask every member of the assembly to speak to him before voting and to listen to the words of his journey
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (248-0)
* '''Notes:''' Corwyn Heartsbane has been added to the [[Exaltation|Roll of the Exalted]]

===Judgement 32===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tyrael
* '''Judgement:''' Exaltation of Rinnah of the Shattered Tower. A rift in Highguard has been growing for some time, triggered initially when a general of Highguard was found to be dedicated to a false virtue. Penance has been given, but the lack of closure was a factor in the feelings of mistrust. Rinnah acted with loyalty when others chose not to. Having enlisted the support of Veikko, then the Cardinal of Loyalty, Rinnah carried out an inquisition of Achseh and raised a judgement hope to bring the issues to a close. There were factors outside of their control widening the distrust, but without Rinnah's actions Highguard would be in a much worse position today. Rinnah's Loyalty should be recognised
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (452-24)

===Judgement 82===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Teleri Thornweaver
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise and thank Llewellyn Leafstalker for his Loyal and Virtuous service provided during his eight terms as Senator for Miaren and advise that he seek a Guide of his choosing to discuss an appropriate Testimony. We recognise he has been a true example of what a Loyal Brand should be
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (280-16)

===Judgement 124===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Rinnah
* '''Judgement:''' I have inquisited Raphael Barossa about where his loyalty calls him and the bonds he holds with my brother Dagon. I exalt his loyalty and his clear devotion to his fiancée. It is clear to me his understanding of his own soul is exemplary and uphold his approach to cross national bonds as one to be followed.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (244-68)

===Judgement 125===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Larkin Otterways
* '''Judgement:''' Pride says we lift each other up. Loyalty says we build others up. Wisdom says all knowledge is incomplete. Silk Farkas founded the Magpies, we exalt him for this deed.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (234-16)

===Judgement 151===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Basil Goodbeard
* '''Judgement:''' Great oaks from little acorns grow. One <u>very young</u> citizen, <u>Hazel Talbot</u>, has shown exceptional <u>courage</u> in her first year in Anvil by: Confronting <u>Agramant cultists</u>, raising the hue and cry when they threatened innocent citizens; Helping to establish the <u>Sun Chamber</u>, inspiring the next generation to courageous deeds through this new sodality; Acting as a formal <u>deputy to Mitwold's senator</u>, refusing to be intimidated by old Senate geezers, and <u>speaking truth to power</u>, in the footsteps of the exemplar of courage, Gilda Ashwine. WE EXULT THIS COURAGEOUS YOUNG CITIZEN!
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (184-0)

==Appointment==
Seventeen [[appointment|appointments]] were raised by the [[Tribune of the Synod]] during the Autumn Equinox

===Judgement 1===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Loyalty]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Dagon of the Shattered Tower''' was appointed with 414 votes; Veikko Bondforger received 382 votes

===Judgement 2===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Pride]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum''' was appointed with 178 votes; Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra received 118 votes

===Judgement 42===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Virtue inquisitor of Vigilance]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Brother Geoffrey Orchard''' was appointed with 130 votes; Alastair of Esther's Sanctum received 98 votes; Merlof von Temeschwar received 24 votes

===Judgement 43===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Reeve of Greenforest Fair]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Edmund Groves''' was appointed with 132 votes; Pontus Figures received 124 votes; Berith Martel received 24 votes; Emrys Averthorne received 22 votes

===Judgement 44===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Courage]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Thomir, son of Astion''' was appointed with 194 votes; Rhisiart Heartsbane received 32 votes; Lugh-llaw Whisperleaf received 0 votes

===Judgement 45===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Guardian of the Maze of Zoria]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Illya Nikovitch Volkov''' was appointed with 176 votes

===Judgement 48===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Virtue inquisitor of Ambition]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Lady Abreya de Lagriffe''' was appointed with 140 votes; Azir i Shartha i Riqueza received 108 votes

===Judgement 49===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Watcher of the Semmerlak]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Romand Reinetova Remislav ''' was appointed with 140 votes

===Judgement 53===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Knight of the Greenwood]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ser Mordrain Sepulchre''' was appointed with 214 votes; Dame Elisabeth Reine received 78 votes; Ser Elio Sepulchre received 0 votes

===Judgement 63===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Watcher of Ratibor's Torch]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Vitore Van Temeschwar''' was appointed with 138 votes; Tatiana Von Temeschwar received 78 votes

===Judgement 66===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Mistress of Ceremonies]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Lana Valentina de Holberg''' was appointed with 246 votes

===Judgement 73===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Rhydian de Rondell''' was appointed with 116 votes; Shibboleth Tziporah received 10 votes

===Judgement 86===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Prosperity]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Isaia Pavone di Sarvos''' was appointed with 108 votes

===Judgement 91===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Virtue inquisitor of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nim of Ebon's Hall''' was appointed with 90 votes; Joran of Highguard received 34 votes

===Judgement 112===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Marshal of the Faith]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Mael''' was appointed with 5 votes; Asenath received 4 votes; Doctor Emil Rook received 0 votes; Bryn Tendfallen received 0 votes; Woulfric received 0 votes

===Judgement 115===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Arcane Inquisitor]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Galene Netherwatch''' was appointed with 5 votes; Bryn Tendfallen received 0 votes

===Judgement 129===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Challenger in Waiting]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ser Decimus of House de Bastion''' was appointed with 116 votes; Hoops received 10 votes

==Rewarding==
Twenty-two [[rewarding|rewardings]] were presented to the assemblies during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 3===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Rewarding of the [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean Library]] dose of [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Earl of Fools''' was selected with 454 votes; Kaspar Yakovitch von Holberg received 206 votes; Nathair Autumngale received 182 votes; Rafael Barossa d'Apulian received 170 votes; Astrif Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato received 134 votes; Zephaniah of Felix's Watch received 116 votes; Gaelen Embercast received 94 votes; Mirella of the Twisted Rose received 60 votes; Lady Alisa Tamerlaine received 58 votes; Belial de Courtenay-Wildrose received 56 votes; Claudia Varkulova Remislav received 52 votes; Ser Purslane Artorigus received 34 votes

===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Starac Sijed Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' <u>The Inspirational Tomb of Ozren de Orzel</u>. In 386YE the General Assembly opted to consecrate an Inspirational Tomb for the Exemplar of Pride Ozren de Orzel Establishing an Academy to inspire the Pride of the Empire and all pilgrims of the Way. I have supplied the True Liao for this consecration. Now I seek the aid of the General Assembly for this Virtuous cause and request a rewarding from the Virtue fund of 50 thrones towards purchase of white granite to build the Iinspirational Tomb. In this way we celebrate the Life and Works of Ozren an Exemplar who has so inspired many throughout the Empire. May Pride and Wisdom guide you.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (682-604)

===Judgement 14===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' With the blessing of the Assembly of Nine (Judgement 212 Autumn 386YE) I seek 62 Thrones to reward the Empire's Ambition in sacrificing international trade as the cost of our fight to spread the Way in Asavea. Soon enough this will no longer be needed as the Asavean blockade fails, but until then we must stay the course
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (588-800)

===Judgement 62===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Corey Wayfarer
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to improve the Congregation of Corey Wayfarer. He has demonstrated his Ambition to destroy the Vallorn by creating opportunities to create Isaella's Dance, he raised the mandate to mobilise the Navarr and is continuing to work towards the destruction of Vallorn
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (89-110)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 85|Judgement 85]] and [[#Judgement 144|Judgement 144]]

===Judgement 72===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Eddard Wormhearth
* '''Judgement:''' I seek your aid in rewarding the one known as Valen Du Froste. During battle their Courage and Loyalty was undeniable when they saved two lives in battle that were moments from being lost; an act that was both selfless and strategic. Driven by a deep sense of Pride for there fellow Dawnish and a Vigilance that goes beyond duty, they acted with the Wisdom to make the right choice under pressure. Their Ambition was not for personal gain but for the continued Prosperity of their fellow men-at-arms. Its with great honour that I ask Valen Du Froste to be rewarded with 60 crowns from the virtue fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (466-340)

===Judgement 80===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Arawyn Whisperleaf
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Geraint Bronwen's Rest with 8 wains of white granite to be put towards the City of Dreams. This is an investment in to the future of the Navarr and will allow us to seek new ways to use liao.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (478-276)

===Judgement 85===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Eirlys Ashes Blaze
* '''Judgement:''' No price too high to achieve your dreams - Sorcha Ashwood is a broker who has a vision of a Navarr brimming with prosperity after we end the vallorn, and she pours her every action in striding towards it. She has an ability to get national projects funded through skill and hard work in her brokering, encourages other brokers to join her in seeing and reaching towards her shining vision of our future, and uses the rewards of her success to further ensure we are ready to meet the fight with the vallorn to be able to get there. The fixed point in the distance is the only thing fixed in her journey - she skillfully steps along the ever shifting path in the dance that will get her there, for she knows that Survival is Change. Be inspired by her Ambition and how she strides towards it, and reward her in kind
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (105-32)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 62|Judgement 62]] and [[#Judgement 144|Judgement 144]]

===Judgement 94===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Broc
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Eleri Bronwens Rest with 12 wains of mithril to be put towards the army currently mustering in Hercynia. The army will be put to use defending the Empires borders to help safeguard the spiritual centre of the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (576-268)

===Judgement 99===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Belloza Fidanza
* '''Judgement:''' Each summit, the Warforge project: Provides newcomers to Anvil with magical equipment to help support them as they settle into Anvil life; Ensures there is demand for the skills of Artisans and that they are Prosperously paid for their work. This project is guided by the hard work of Serafina di Sarvos who gets no reward for herself. The Synod recognises and rewards this hard work - and the promotion of Prosperity and Vigilance among Imperial citizens - with seven Thrones.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (722-228)

===Judgement 102===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Elysium
* '''Judgement:''' For their unwavering endeavour to thwart the Winter eternal Agramant, and the strides made along this path, the most impactful of which, so far, has been banning cannibalism. This was not a road without many obstacles and challenges along the way but even the mightiest forest can be felled one tree at a time. We reward Tyburn Weaver, Grandmaster of the Shuttered Lantern, 15 thrones from the Virtue Fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (352-292)

===Judgement 107===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Cyrus son of Noah
* '''Judgement:''' Award Merari, Senator for Bastion, 5 wains of white granite towards the restoration of Berechiah's Basilica in Bastion. It was hallowed with true liao in 385Y 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.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (570-210)

===Judgement 114===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Paulus Adelaar von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Lia Adelaar van Holberg plays the great game and has, with the Sandfisher loan for the Lakesedge Highway, taught the Sandfishers well how the League competes in life and keeps count in coin. By the ring on her finger does she wear her loyalty to this cause close. We ask the citizens of the League to hasten her work in bringing the Sandfishers to the Way and the Empire by supporting her congregation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (212-0)

===Judgement 130===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tamar
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Rebekah of the Cenotaph for her work in uncovering and collating information about the "new" eternal threatening the Bay of Catazar. Her peerless pursuit of this task is a demonstration of the commitment that the Virtue of Ambition demands.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (300-0)

===Judgement 144===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Neala Blackhawk
* '''Judgement:''' Being Vigilant to the dangers of the world Paulk Thornweaver created and funded the Treji Armoury. His Ambition is to support all who take the field, so finances will never be a barrier to our people using the best equipment possible. The Treji Armoury saves lives, with his actions today having consequences for years to come. Virtue is in action and the Ambition of Paulk is worthy of recognition. Let us build him up as he has built up the people of our Nation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (90-72)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 62|Judgement 62]] and [[#Judgement 85|Judgement 85]]

===Judgement 146===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Sister Meredith
* '''Judgement:''' In her time as Conscience of the Senate, <u>Richard of Upwold</u>, inspired by a desire to build her fellows up, was instrumental in the creation of the <u>Judgement of Exhaltation</u>. This tool will enable us to better recognise deserving Imperials and virtuous Marchers. May her ambition live in our long Marcher memory! With her dogged stubbornness driving her Pride, she exemplifies the <u>Spirit of the Marches</u>.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (122-80)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 150|Judgement 150]]

===Judgement 150===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Alfred Aewalfson
* '''Judgement:''' The Marcher Nations Assembly recognises Jedidiah Boon for his tenacity and steadfastness in representing his constituents in Anvil. We would see him rewarded with a team at the Capodomus Cathedral so he may improve and strengthen his craft as a priest, and continue striving for his ambition of a greater and more Prideful Mournwold
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (198-52)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 146|Judgement 146]]

===Judgement 165===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ignacio i Zuhri i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' We the Freeborn Assembly claim the opportunity given by the Capodomus Cathedral to award Suspiria i Riqueza with an upgraded resource in recognition of their demonstrated Ambition.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (140-0)

===Judgement 171===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Amris Johan Merikovich
* '''Judgement:''' We the Varushkan National Assembly have heard the tale of Aunty Armand Mariyavich Remislav and seek to recognise and reward them. As Loremaster and Enchantress, now Wise One, they ensured their people knew the tales of Varushka, and taught them to respect their Elders, rather than respecting only Glory. They prepared and faced difficult choices as a Varushkan, not as a citizen of Dawn. They kept to the road, realising Dawn was no longer their home and led their house back to their ancestral home in Volodmartz. We seek to help them in reconstructing their Vale and call for the upgrade of their dragonbone forest.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (240-0)

===Judgement 175===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Chrysaor
* '''Judgement:''' Mori of House Elyan requires the necessary ingredients to upgrade her herb garden through a judgement of rewarding. With the intent to produce Bloodharrow Philtres to be used by Dawnish fighters in combat with the Druj.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (162-20)

===Judgement 186===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Caduceus of Aureate Peak
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise and seek to reward the AMBITION of Callista of the Dark Shard, who has worked throughout Urizen to see the ambitions of others be brought into the light and realised. Those inspired by their work to build a better empire through precise and elegant application of effort should heed the words of Estella Lucati at the consecration of Capodomus Cathedral and the work displayed there. Let us strengthen her congregation so they may continue to help all pursue their goals, for nothing is beyond our grasp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (164-10)

===Judgement 195===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Meep
* '''Judgement:''' The words of the Ancestors grow stronger in Anvil. They thunder in Orc ears at the Sentinel Gate, they observe the power that flows from the Imperial Regio, and last summit, our Shamans, heard them speak of Legends in the pit. Once again, the Consecration of Capodomus Cathedral calls out for an Ambition, and once again, the Shamans of Anvil answer with the words of Ancestors. The third gathering of “Audience of the Ancestors” speaks, and the Unshackled National Assembly echoes their words. We name KADD and their Ambition to liberate the orcs of the broken shore to be recognised by all Imperial Orcs. Gather your strength and help them build up their resource. May their Legend carry them Across the Abyss!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (40-0)

===Judgement 197===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Trencher Smoulder in the Cold
* '''Judgement:''' To my fellow citizens, I put myself forward as an individual who has exemplified myself as a Wintermarker. Through working with those who were abandoned by the Empire and left to Blood-on-the-Snow, I was able to bring them back on the path of the Way and help them mend their skein. This showed a love for three people and one nation. Let the Capodomus Cathedral uplift my hero's home as a beacon for all who strive.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (44-0)

==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>
<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 Summer 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>105 thrones, 1 crown, 7 rings</td><td>12 wains</td><td>8 wains</td><td>8 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>56 thrones, 4 crowns, 8 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>81 thrones, 7 crowns, 15 rings</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>8 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">
* 7 thrones to '''Belloza Fidanza''' following [[#Judgement 99|Judgement 99]] being upheld (margin 494)
* 5 wains of white granite to '''Cyrus, Son of Noah''' following [[#Judgement 107|Judgement 107]] being upheld (margin 360)
* 12 wains of mithril to '''Broc''' following [[#Judgement 94|Judgement 94]] being upheld (margin 308)
* 3 wains of white granite (out of 8 requested) to '''Arawyn Whisperleaf''' following [[#Judgement 80|Judgement 80]] being upheld (margin 202)
* 7 thrones, 6 crowns to '''Eddard Warmhearth''' following [[#Judgement 72|Judgement 72]] being upheld (margin 126)
* 50 thrones to '''Starac Sijed Orzel''' following [[#Judgement 5|Judgement 5]] being upheld (margin 78)
* 15 thrones to '''Elysium''' following [[#Judgement 102|Judgement 102]] being upheld (margin 60)
</div>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of donations made during the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 55 thrones for the Bourse dose of True Liao from '''Trencher Smoulder in the Cold'''
* 6 crowns from '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian'''
* 4 crowns, 17 rings from '''Leonardo i Del'Toro i Riqueza'''
* 1 crown from '''Berith Martel'''
* 11 rings in small donations
</div>

==Doses of True Liao==

Seven 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 the '''Earl of Fools''' via [[#Judgement 3|Judgement 3]]
* One dose to '''Trencher Smoulder in the Cold''' by purchase in the [[Public auction|Public Auction]]
* One dose to '''Moraža, Boyar of the Darkwater Vale''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Percival of the Summerstrong''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#The_Just_Rewards_of_Your_Labours|gifted]] by the [[Sumaah Republic]] to [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#Flames_and_Faith|'''Boorra Talighar''']] by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Luca di Sarvos''' by resolution of the [[Sun_Chamber#Past_Lives|Sun Chamber]]

==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 || 46 || 634 || 318
|-
|Courage || 35 || 439 || 220
|-
|Loyalty || 79 || 1136 || 569
|-
|Pride || 34 || 446 || 224
|-
|Prosperity || 37 || 459 || 230
|-
|Vigilance || 60 || 802 || 402
|-
|Wisdom || 54 || 730 || 366
|-
|The Way || 28 || 312 || 157
|-
|General || 373 || 4958 || 2480
|-
|}

{|
! scope=""col"" style=""width: 320px;"" | National Assembly
! Assembly Size
! Total Voting Strength
! Greater Majority Threshold
|-
|Brass Coast || 19 || 244 || 123
|-
|Dawn || 55 || 721 || 361
|-
|Highguard || 82 || 1262 || 632
|-
|Imperial Orcs || 8 || 106 || 54
|-
|League || 33 || 478 || 240
|-
|Marches || 26 || 306 || 154
|-
|Navarr || 43 || 511 || 256
|-
|Urizen || 30 || 370 || 186
|-
|Varushka || 38 || 512 || 257
|-
|Wintermark || 39 || 448 || 225
|-
|General || 373 || 4958 || 2480
|-
|}

==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 Autumn Equinox Synod judgements

2025-09-23T20:21:58Z

RichardRaynor: /* Judgement 10 */

[[Category: Synod]] [[Category:Synod Results]] [[Category: Synod Judgements]][[Category: 387YE Autumn]]
==Overview==
During the Autumn Equinox 387YE, the Imperial Synod raised TBC judgements.

<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">
{|
|+ <big>'''Judgement Quick Links'''</big>
! Judgement Type
! Amount
|-
|[[#Statement of Principle|Statement of Principle]]|| TBC
|-
|[[#Mandate|Mandate]] || 8
|-
|[[#Writ of Consecration|Writ of Consecration]] || 1
|-
|[[#Inquisition|Inquisition]] || 23
|-
|[[#Sanction|Sanction]] || 26
|-
|[[#Recognition|Recognition]] || 3
|-
|[[#Exaltation|Exaltation]] || 6
|-
|[[#Appointment|Appointment]] || 17
|-
|[[#Rewarding|Rewarding]] || 22
|-
|}
</div>
==Statement of Principle==

==Mandate==
Eight [[mandate|mandates]] were presented to the assemblies during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 6===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' Mercy is weakness. Mercy shows the enemy your limits. We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 50 doses of liao to urge all Loyal Urizeni to hunt down the Disciples of Sulemaine and show them the blade. Find your enemy's limits and go beyond them
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn (66-0)

===Judgement 17===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Gwen Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom is finding the right question. We send Gwen Tendfallen with 50 doses of liao to encourage devotees of Wisdom to carefully investigate false virtues. Test what we learn about malign spiritual auras is the highest calling of this assembly
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (128-236)
__TOC__
===Judgement 64===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Judgement:''' Seek out the poison! We send Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka with 75 doses of liao to urge Varushkans to move against those who would spread blasphemy and heresy. Tolerate no folly and guide the law's hand to inflict the punishment that has been earned.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (360-0)

===Judgement 83===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Solas of the Spire of the Waxing Sun
* '''Judgement:''' Captains of Urizen! There is a poison in our fields. The Disciples of Sulemaine threaten by spreading the Blasphemy of Hatred, an idea long since tested and discarded as lacking. We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 50 doses of liao to urge all to go forth and excise this pestilence from our home.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (258-0)

===Judgement 127===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Cosimo Argyra
* '''Judgement:''' Be alert to all dangers; within and without! The Silent Manse in the Sarcophan Enclave is a spiritual threat to the wellbeing of all. The only way to avoid blasphemy and heresy is to have nothing to do with this profane temple. We send Cosimo Argyra with 25 doses of liao to urge all Imperial citizens planning to visit the estates to express only polite and civil disinterest in their unvirtuous religion.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (216-0)

===Judgement 128===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark
* '''Judgement:''' The meeting hall at Gull Island will be completed for the Winter Solstice. Yet until a meeting has taken place there it is just a hall. We send Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark with 25 doses of liao to spread word of the Hall both in Wintermark and in the lands of the Jotun. Let the Ghodi bring their people to join with the folk of Wintermark to see what bridge may be built.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (284-0)

===Judgement 140===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Torin
* '''Judgement:''' We send Eevi of the Gadrai with 5 doses of liao to urge those who know Valdr Grieversonn well to encourage him to talk to the Assembly
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (284-0)

===Judgement 166===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Vasilmir Radovanovna Esskivic
* '''Judgement:''' Seek out falsehood and expose the truth. We send Vasilmir Radovanovna Esskivic with 25 doses of liao to urge Wintermarkers and Varushkans to work together to seek out and oppose the false Virtues at every turn. Let us seek out the poison in our neighbours fields.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (292-0)

==Writ of Consecration==
One [[writ of consecration]] was presented to the assemblies during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 21===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Alfredo Barossa
* '''Judgement:''' In the days before the Empire, the Jotun and Wintermark erected a stone, which became known simply as the Meeting Place. For many generations Jotun and Empire could meet there, be Loyal to their values and bind themselves with oaths - over time a hall grew up on the site and honour and virtue flowed from it. In recent times that hall was destroyed and the stone smashed. Ignominious death and dishonour have abounded between Jotun and Imperials since. Now at last, the Empire and Jotun have jointly rebuilt the feasting hall and wish to call it the Meeting Place once more. This is a place of Honour and Virtue, a place to be Loyal to our values, ourselves, the oaths we swear and the treaties we sign. Having sought the Jotun's agreement, I ask the Assembly for a Writ of Consecration, to dedicate part of the site to Loyalty using a dose of True Liao donated by Erland, in the hope the Jotun accept this offer in the spirit it is intended.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (412-26)

==Inquisition==
Twenty-three [[inquisition|inquisitions]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 9===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' Aster Aceae. You served as Imperial Chaplain Consular during Fintan Nighthaven’s tenure as Ambassador to Axos. We will discuss your work and what can be learned from it
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Imperial Inquisitor]]

===Judgement 31===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Daisy of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement:''' Following Judgement 195 of the Winter Summit we are seeking to find the causes of the rifts in Highguard so that “concrete steps” can be taken to resolve this. We therefore call Zadok, former general of the Valiant Pegasus army to inquisition at a mutually agreeable time, meeting at the Highguard chapel to find out what happened to divide the nation
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (216-22)

===Judgement 38===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Nim of Ebon’s Hall
* '''Judgement:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost, you have served as your Assembly and now you move to serve your Empire. I call you to inquisition so that we may judge the lessons of your time as Inquisitor of Wisdom - lessons that inform your actions as Imperial Inquisitor. 9pm Friday - Ebon’s Hall Chapel, Highguard.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (186-0)

===Judgement 39===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' Luca i Taziel i Riqueza, Cardinal of Prosperity, I exalt you for taking on the difficult task of Inquisiting and Condemning Aunty Hem for being Dedicated to Anarchy, and for Dedicating others to it. I am alarmed, however, that you waited an entire season after learning about her Dedication before taking action. Let us talk about that, ponder her career, and undertake a Vigil without ourselves to track down exactly what happened here, and how we can Vigilantly and Prosperously do better. Day: Saturday. Time: 12pm. Location: The Hub.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (142-0)

===Judgement 55===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Elagabala
* '''Judgement:''' In my capacity as Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, I call Knight-Captain Aletheia Wooder of the Twisted Rose to inquisition. This is regarding their commissioning a casting of Treacher’s Quill to treat with Agramant, in order to expedite the acquisition of a favour of the Howlwer in the Wastes held by the manticore the Earl of Groves. We will address the Knight-Captains further intent with the Horned Manticore, and the Virtue, specifically Loyalty, inspiring their actions. We will not address the legality or morality of the matter - that is for the magistrates. It shall be at 2pm on the Saturday of the Autumn summit in the Netherwatch tent in the Urizen camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (918-0)

===Judgement 81===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Abreya de Lagriffe
* '''Judgement:''' At the request of the Earl of House Castellan, I call Leon of House Castellan to inquisition to question his ambition or lack thereof in regards to his disinterest in a test of mettle. To be held at <u>2pm Saturday</u> at House de Lagriffe.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (80-78)

===Judgement 106===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' I call Cadenza i Fontanilla i Riqueza to Inqusition to discuss her prosperity and her flame, 3pm Saturday The Spilled Tea, Brass Coast
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (64-0)

===Judgement 109===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Jedediah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' Myshki Marishka Letuchaya, you are not the first to have your Virtue etched into the heavens. But I know well that to achieve such feats, you must have made great ripples on the ground. Pride uplifts. Inquisition tests.I will see you at 11am, Sunday, of this very summit, at your National Tent
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]]

===Judgement 119===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Callista
* '''Judgement:''' I call Vossk of Zenith Ascendant, Archmage of Autumn, to inquisition at Winter 387 to bring to light the virtue of their actions leading to their appointment, and their ambitions going forward. Time and place to be arranged at Zenith Ascendant camp at the start of the summit (due to the reactive commitments of their role)
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1000-0)

===Judgement 133===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Ser Gaheris Torawyr
* '''Judgement:''' I call Odd Twice-born of Wintermark to inquisition, to discuss and learn of their actions and use of their arcane prowess and knowledge under the eyes of Pride and Virtue. The Promise Camp, Dawn 10pm Saturday, Autumn Equinox
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (62-0)

===Judgement 135===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Emil Rook
* '''Judgement:''' With mutual agreement, I summon Finna of Dawn to inquisition at 12:30pm on Sunday, at the bottom of the League high street, in light of new evidence that may alter previous judgements
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (200-10)

===Judgement 159===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' Viviane Barossa, I call you to inquisition at the summit to come to discuss the Virtue of your actions and Oath concerning the Hallowing of Peace. Much has been said, much has happened. Let us see if the consequences are worth it
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (870-92)

===Judgement 172===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' John Carter
* '''Judgement:''' I call Ematius, Archmage of Winter, to inquisition. The time will be 1pm, Sunday, next summit as agreed. Ematius shall answer questions in capacity of Ambassador to Winter, regarding decisions made concerning the Knights of Tharim and their activity in Upwold. The people of Upwold, while compensated, need and deserve answers. We are going to start a dialogue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (98-0)

===Judgement 173===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' I call Lugh Llaw Whisperleaf to inquisition at 1:30pm Sunday, this summit, at Iniska’s Pantry to discuss his work removing heretical idols from the general population in Anvil.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]]

===Judgement 177===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Alastair of Esther’s Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' I call Gaelen Embercast to inquisition. In regard to recent accusations of corruption, I seek to shine my vigilant lantern upon him to uncover the truth. Saturday, Winter Solstice 387, Hub Annex, 1pm
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]]

===Judgement 187===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Nim of Ebon’s Hall
* '''Judgement:''' <u>GISLI, THE PROVIDER</u> You have been found by the insight committee to have shrouded your soul from the view of our insighting priest. Face questioning at Ebon’s Hall at 1pm Sunday
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]]

===Judgement 189===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' I call Bloodcrow Knott to inquisition at 13:00 Sunday of the Autumn summit about publications and statements they have made about the Way and virtue. Observes by appointment of them at the First Legion Tent in the Imperial Orc camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (102-10)

===Judgement 190===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' As Arcane Inquisitor, I call the Shadowed Torchbearer Vanja Oddsbreaker to inquisition at the Winter solstice, a time and place to be decided
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Arcane Inquisitor]]

===Judgement 198===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' I call Ida the River to inquisition at the Winter summit 387YE at 15:00 on Saturday at the Hospital. This is to talk of the courage in their life - engaged in care for others, advising others, and helping the Empire face to darkness
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inqusitor of Courage]]

===Judgement 199===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Abreya de Lagriffe
* '''Judgement:''' I call the sect of <u>Sular’s Spyglass</u> to inquisition and request the presence of <u>Oradora, Teresa and Apprendio</u> at the next summit of Anvil. As I am to understand, Azir i Shartha i Riqueza - the predecessor of my new position as Inquisitor of Ambition - tried to offer the sect a way to conclude their investigations without inquisition which has been refused. As such, it is my duty to investigate the alleged activity of the false virtue of vengeance within this sect
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]]

===Judgement 201===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement:''' I call Neala Blackhawk to inquisition at winter summit at a time and place to be agreed with them. We will discuss accusations of compelled loyalty in your nation and how your actions align with the oaths you have sworn
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]]

===Judgement 207===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Martin Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' I shall be inquisiting Tom Appleseeder of King's Stoke, 2pm Sun, Winter Solstice, Hub Annex. The Vigilance Inquisitor will attend. All those with opinion on his vigilance, of any nation, are encouraged to attend and be given time to speak.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (228-0)

===Judgement 208===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pete Tong
* '''Judgement:''' I seek, as proxy of Basilisk of the Bourse, for the inqusiiton of Juniper du Froste regarding the intentions and use their newly held and heavily politicised mithril seat in the Fangs so that all can see the virtues which guide their choices during their tenure.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld as proxy [[Basilisk of the Bourse]]

==Sanction==
Twenty-six [[sanction|sanctions]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 8===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Fintan Nighthaven: you have been judged and found sorely wanting. Your blatant blasphemy has endangered not only the souls of thousands of Axou, but of the Empire. You have abused your priestly powers to pervert the sanctity of true liao in creating a true hallowing of Peace. You have confessed to being dedicated to each false virtue, save fear and hope, and have created 31 false hallowings you have not destroyed. Your vanity project ends here, wolf.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (326-24)

===Judgement 10===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Sam Wych-Elm. You are a hypocrite, who has stood on the side of Vigilance and still fallen face first into the poison of your neighbour's field. How disappointing. As you called for the condemnation of the Cardinals for the carrying of false hallowings so too do I call you now for willingly dedicating yourself to Vengeance to the strength of four priests. Playing the merry fool will not spare you of consequence, blasphemer.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1536-126)

===Judgement 15===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
* '''Judgement - Condemnation:''' Following my inquisition of Yosephus Morningson, I have determined that the creed of the Temple of Balance, which he preaches is neither blasphemous nor does it promote the Unitarian Heresy. It is, however, avowed Excessionism. He preaches that a person can have too much Ambition compared to their Courage, and vice verse, and thus that all should seek to stymie their own excellence in pursuit of mediocrity across the board. The heretical creed of the Temple of Balance is a festering wound that must be cut out. As he is the primary preacher at Anvil, we must therefore condemn the heretic Yosephus Morningson as well.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1378-180)

===Judgement 22===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Callista of the Dark Shard
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Able the Taller exhibits <u>exemplary loyalty</u> in their actions. Their loyalty to the cause of "Ending the Druj" <u>inspires others</u> to join with their ambitions. In this instance, their ambition was to solve the supply problem in Urizen that restricts army formation. With their allies, they formed the Urizen Trading Consortium and employed their <u>mastery of the Autumn realm</u>. to manipulate heralds into offering an army of heralds to Urizen. Once this offer0 was made, they leveraged their <u>personal contacts, prosperity, and sheer determination</u> to not only build it, but built it in a single season: an <u>unprecedented accomplishment</u>. The Synod commends this <u>AMBITIOUS achievement</u> and encourages citizens to learn from Able's ability to take a vast ambition and break it down into steps that bring the unreachable into their grasp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1092-66)

===Judgement 26===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' In relation to the inquisition of Sen. Ostrik Vulpe on Saturday of the Summer Solstice. It was good to talk, old friend, your virtue is on the correct path and I am pleased. Nevertheless, we all fall short of the Path. I identified two areas in which your soul can be brightened, which I charge you to address this summit. 1) While your Ambition is palpable you should take care to not only draw esteem from others. Thus I charge you to seek the anointing of the Affirmation of Pride. 2) In speaking, I saw that your soul bears a particular weakness to the malign spiritual influence of fear. Your should not fear the night. I charge you to hallow a lantern with the Hallowing of Adelmar, to banish your fear of shadow.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (684-50)

===Judgement 27===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Almodis of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Vindication of Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum. Olyvar was asked by the Imperial Inquisitor to look into the issue surrounding the dedication of a then General of Highguard being dedicated to a false virtue. Olyvar was unfortunately too busy to address this, which is unfortunate, but not unvirtuous. Olyvar provided helpful information that he had been told that Achseh had been dedicated by the Exarch of the Sentinel's Tower and the contradicting version that it had been someone in a Bar. He was also told that the Exarch was executed bt the Magistrate, but we have been unable to find a record of this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (562-170)

===Judgement 28===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Jash
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Penance of Aemon Exarch of Suns of Couros. Sanctions following inquisition should be given when a lack of Virtue is demonstrated, that should then be clear on the Judgement of Sanction. Aemon stated at the inquisition that to ask people to vote on their feelings about a person or without the full information would "run the risk of Vengeance". Jack Twice drowned is a controversial figure at times, but the only fault stated in Judgement 51 of the spring summit can be summarised that he was calling people names. If we are to be Vigilant against Vengeance, then we should do better. A public acknowledgement that words in a Synod Judgement matter and a commitment to do better would be a Virtuous penance.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (366-146)

===Judgement 29===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Talos of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Penance for Keziah of the Suns of Couros. Keziah virtuously took on the role of working with Achseh, former General of Highguard, as a guide priest to bring her back to the path of Virtue having been dedicated to a false virtue. Keziah succeeded in this role, but failed in one important area. Keziah was not Vigilant enough to identify if others in that Chapter had fallen from the path of Virtue. Keziah did not find out who dedicated Achseh to Hatred. As a penance, Keziah should work with the Highguard Insight Committee, reporting to Julius Solomon of Ebon's Hall, for at least a year to learn to be more Vigilant.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (464-214)

===Judgement 30===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Archaron
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Vindication of Veikko, former Cardinal of Loyalty. Veikko's involvement in the issues in Highguard has been to support members of his Assembly and to try and resolve the rift. His actions were entirely Virtuous. Achseh, at Inquisition, stated that the then Exarch of Sentinel's Tower had dedicated her to a False Virtue, which she only agreed to as they threatened violence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (356-32)

===Judgement 33===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Icarus
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Penance for Jared of the Sentinel's Tower - There is no clarity about how Achseh became dedicated to a false virtue. It has been stated that other member of the Sentinel's Tower have also been in this way. Jared has demonstrated a lack of Vigilance by not seeking the answers from those closest to him. His penance is to give the names of all people in his own Chapter who have been dedicated to a false virtue along with the name of the person who dedicated them on each or any occasion. Details for current members should be if they have ever been dedicated to a false virtue, for former or deceased members this should cover the last 5 years. The whereabouts of these people should be provided. This information must be raised in a judgement in the Highguard National Assembly by the end of the spring summit of 388. If it does not pass, so is not accepted as adequate by the National Assembly, then this should be escalated.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (446-258)
* '''Note:''' There is no legal requirement for Jared of the Sentinel's Tower to use his judgement in this way.


==Recognition==
Three [[recognition|recognitions]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 4===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Father Edmund
* '''Judgement:''' Tom Drake, Exemplar of Loyalty. Inspiration - the Drakes still fight in his name! Legacy - founded the Military Council! Salvation - Fought Alderei the Fair, dying to save Varushka and the Empire! Benevolence - sacrificed his pride for the sovereignty of the Marches, and all Imperial nations! Through times of great change, Tom Drake remained always Loyal and devoted to the Marches.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1280-162)

===Judgement 37===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tarquinius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' While it has not been raised since at least before Britta, the law is clear that the Synod has the option to recognise a person in this fashion if they truly deserve it. I name Fintan Nighthaven as a false Exemplar of Peace. His choices make it clear what the path of peace looks like and where it leads. The signs are not required or expected to recognise an exemplar of a false virtue, but his actions have been impactful at the level of legacy (obtaining ilium and true liao to create a peace relic) or inspiration (arranging the peace hallows for our cardinals)
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (620-210)

===Judgement 50===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Nisha Strascovich
* '''Judgement:''' Starac Orzel is a living Exemplar of Pride and strong enough in mind, body and virtue to carry this weight. Liberation: Starac's selfless sacrifice, repeatedly facing death for the Empire, could be viewed as transcending mortal ties - readiness for spiritual liberation. Recognition: Starac has been repeatedly honoured in key Imperial roles, Gatekeeper, Quartermaster, General, Field Marshal, Battle Mage of Dawn and Voice of Varushka. His is success in war, diplomacy, and magic make him a shining example of Imperial Virtue. Benevolence: Starac saved the children of Dark Heart, prevented unnecessary bloodshed, made reforms as quartermaster improving military budgets, ensured equitable access to Summer ritual and funded the Statue of Eleonaris himself when Imperial funds were short benefiting the Empire. Inspiration: Starac is celebrated for inspiring troops to persevere at Holberg, earning him the Equine Rod from Barien and raising national morale. His creative efforts have enriched Imperial culture and spirit, and his influence reaches from motivating Dawn in Anvil to uplifting many others to realize their hidden potential. Miracle: The prophetic nature of his art (Malsanguino), the miraculous return of the Knights of Glory ritual, and the spontaneous founding of the Golden Causeway all border on miraculous events guided by Virtue. Pilgrimage: Starac undertook a spiritual journey walking the consecrated Maze of Zoria. His work across several Imperial nations shows his commitment to both spiritual and physical service. Legacy: He founded the first Dawn Glory Square in 378YE, nurturing it for a decade into a central hub of Dawn's culture. He helped rediscover and legitimize the Maze of Zoria through civil service channels. Starac has retrieved lost relics and ritual and created ripples where he has inspired others.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn (20-0)

==Exaltation ==
Six [[exaltation|exaltations]] were raised during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 18===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Melchior of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' Corwyn Heartsbane was presented to this assembly as a potential living exemplar of Courage. Having carried out his inquisition I now call his exaltation. Whether he should be named exemplar is a future decision for this assembly but for now his tireless dedication to the path of courage should be a beacon to us all. Amongst other acts he has led the creation of the Vallornguard and the construction of the Navarri wayhouses inspiring others to follow his lead and take the first steps with him. I ask every member of the assembly to speak to him before voting and to listen to the words of his journey
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (248-0)
* '''Notes:''' Corwyn Heartsbane has been added to the [[Exaltation|Roll of the Exalted]]

===Judgement 32===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tyrael
* '''Judgement:''' Exaltation of Rinnah of the Shattered Tower. A rift in Highguard has been growing for some time, triggered initially when a general of Highguard was found to be dedicated to a false virtue. Penance has been given, but the lack of closure was a factor in the feelings of mistrust. Rinnah acted with loyalty when others chose not to. Having enlisted the support of Veikko, then the Cardinal of Loyalty, Rinnah carried out an inquisition of Achseh and raised a judgement hope to bring the issues to a close. There were factors outside of their control widening the distrust, but without Rinnah's actions Highguard would be in a much worse position today. Rinnah's Loyalty should be recognised
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (452-24)

===Judgement 82===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Teleri Thornweaver
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise and thank Llewellyn Leafstalker for his Loyal and Virtuous service provided during his eight terms as Senator for Miaren and advise that he seek a Guide of his choosing to discuss an appropriate Testimony. We recognise he has been a true example of what a Loyal Brand should be
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (280-16)

===Judgement 124===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Rinnah
* '''Judgement:''' I have inquisited Raphael Barossa about where his loyalty calls him and the bonds he holds with my brother Dagon. I exalt his loyalty and his clear devotion to his fiancée. It is clear to me his understanding of his own soul is exemplary and uphold his approach to cross national bonds as one to be followed.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (244-68)

===Judgement 125===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Larkin Otterways
* '''Judgement:''' Pride says we lift each other up. Loyalty says we build others up. Wisdom says all knowledge is incomplete. Silk Farkas founded the Magpies, we exalt him for this deed.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (234-16)

===Judgement 151===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Basil Goodbeard
* '''Judgement:''' Great oaks from little acorns grow. One <u>very young</u> citizen, <u>Hazel Talbot</u>, has shown exceptional <u>courage</u> in her first year in Anvil by: Confronting <u>Agramant cultists</u>, raising the hue and cry when they threatened innocent citizens; Helping to establish the <u>Sun Chamber</u>, inspiring the next generation to courageous deeds through this new sodality; Acting as a formal <u>deputy to Mitwold's senator</u>, refusing to be intimidated by old Senate geezers, and <u>speaking truth to power</u>, in the footsteps of the exemplar of courage, Gilda Ashwine. WE EXULT THIS COURAGEOUS YOUNG CITIZEN!
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (184-0)

==Appointment==
Seventeen [[appointment|appointments]] were raised by the [[Tribune of the Synod]] during the Autumn Equinox

===Judgement 1===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Loyalty]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Dagon of the Shattered Tower''' was appointed with 414 votes; Veikko Bondforger received 382 votes

===Judgement 2===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Pride]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum''' was appointed with 178 votes; Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra received 118 votes

===Judgement 42===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Virtue inquisitor of Vigilance]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Brother Geoffrey Orchard''' was appointed with 130 votes; Alastair of Esther's Sanctum received 98 votes; Merlof von Temeschwar received 24 votes

===Judgement 43===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Reeve of Greenforest Fair]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Edmund Groves''' was appointed with 132 votes; Pontus Figures received 124 votes; Berith Martel received 24 votes; Emrys Averthorne received 22 votes

===Judgement 44===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Courage]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Thomir, son of Astion''' was appointed with 194 votes; Rhisiart Heartsbane received 32 votes; Lugh-llaw Whisperleaf received 0 votes

===Judgement 45===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Guardian of the Maze of Zoria]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Illya Nikovitch Volkov''' was appointed with 176 votes

===Judgement 48===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Virtue inquisitor of Ambition]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Lady Abreya de Lagriffe''' was appointed with 140 votes; Azir i Shartha i Riqueza received 108 votes

===Judgement 49===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Watcher of the Semmerlak]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Romand Reinetova Remislav ''' was appointed with 140 votes

===Judgement 53===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Knight of the Greenwood]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ser Mordrain Sepulchre''' was appointed with 214 votes; Dame Elisabeth Reine received 78 votes; Ser Elio Sepulchre received 0 votes

===Judgement 63===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Watcher of Ratibor's Torch]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Vitore Van Temeschwar''' was appointed with 138 votes; Tatiana Von Temeschwar received 78 votes

===Judgement 66===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Mistress of Ceremonies]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Lana Valentina de Holberg''' was appointed with 246 votes

===Judgement 73===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Rhydian de Rondell''' was appointed with 116 votes; Shibboleth Tziporah received 10 votes

===Judgement 86===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Prosperity]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Isaia Pavone di Sarvos''' was appointed with 108 votes

===Judgement 91===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Virtue inquisitor of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nim of Ebon's Hall''' was appointed with 90 votes; Joran of Highguard received 34 votes

===Judgement 112===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Marshal of the Faith]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Mael''' was appointed with 5 votes; Asenath received 4 votes; Doctor Emil Rook received 0 votes; Bryn Tendfallen received 0 votes; Woulfric received 0 votes

===Judgement 115===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Arcane Inquisitor]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Galene Netherwatch''' was appointed with 5 votes; Bryn Tendfallen received 0 votes

===Judgement 129===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Challenger in Waiting]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ser Decimus of House de Bastion''' was appointed with 116 votes; Hoops received 10 votes

==Rewarding==
Twenty-two [[rewarding|rewardings]] were presented to the assemblies during the Autumn Equinox
===Judgement 3===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Rewarding of the [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean Library]] dose of [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Earl of Fools''' was selected with 454 votes; Kaspar Yakovitch von Holberg received 206 votes; Nathair Autumngale received 182 votes; Rafael Barossa d'Apulian received 170 votes; Astrif Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato received 134 votes; Zephaniah of Felix's Watch received 116 votes; Gaelen Embercast received 94 votes; Mirella of the Twisted Rose received 60 votes; Lady Alisa Tamerlaine received 58 votes; Belial de Courtenay-Wildrose received 56 votes; Claudia Varkulova Remislav received 52 votes; Ser Purslane Artorigus received 34 votes

===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Starac Sijed Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' <u>The Inspirational Tomb of Ozren de Orzel</u>. In 386YE the General Assembly opted to consecrate an Inspirational Tomb for the Exemplar of Pride Ozren de Orzel Establishing an Academy to inspire the Pride of the Empire and all pilgrims of the Way. I have supplied the True Liao for this consecration. Now I seek the aid of the General Assembly for this Virtuous cause and request a rewarding from the Virtue fund of 50 thrones towards purchase of white granite to build the Iinspirational Tomb. In this way we celebrate the Life and Works of Ozren an Exemplar who has so inspired many throughout the Empire. May Pride and Wisdom guide you.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (682-604)

===Judgement 14===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' With the blessing of the Assembly of Nine (Judgement 212 Autumn 386YE) I seek 62 Thrones to reward the Empire's Ambition in sacrificing international trade as the cost of our fight to spread the Way in Asavea. Soon enough this will no longer be needed as the Asavean blockade fails, but until then we must stay the course
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (588-800)

===Judgement 62===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Corey Wayfarer
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to improve the Congregation of Corey Wayfarer. He has demonstrated his Ambition to destroy the Vallorn by creating opportunities to create Isaella's Dance, he raised the mandate to mobilise the Navarr and is continuing to work towards the destruction of Vallorn
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (89-110)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 85|Judgement 85]] and [[#Judgement 144|Judgement 144]]

===Judgement 72===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Eddard Wormhearth
* '''Judgement:''' I seek your aid in rewarding the one known as Valen Du Froste. During battle their Courage and Loyalty was undeniable when they saved two lives in battle that were moments from being lost; an act that was both selfless and strategic. Driven by a deep sense of Pride for there fellow Dawnish and a Vigilance that goes beyond duty, they acted with the Wisdom to make the right choice under pressure. Their Ambition was not for personal gain but for the continued Prosperity of their fellow men-at-arms. Its with great honour that I ask Valen Du Froste to be rewarded with 60 crowns from the virtue fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (466-340)

===Judgement 80===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Arawyn Whisperleaf
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Geraint Bronwen's Rest with 8 wains of white granite to be put towards the City of Dreams. This is an investment in to the future of the Navarr and will allow us to seek new ways to use liao.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (478-276)

===Judgement 85===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Eirlys Ashes Blaze
* '''Judgement:''' No price too high to achieve your dreams - Sorcha Ashwood is a broker who has a vision of a Navarr brimming with prosperity after we end the vallorn, and she pours her every action in striding towards it. She has an ability to get national projects funded through skill and hard work in her brokering, encourages other brokers to join her in seeing and reaching towards her shining vision of our future, and uses the rewards of her success to further ensure we are ready to meet the fight with the vallorn to be able to get there. The fixed point in the distance is the only thing fixed in her journey - she skillfully steps along the ever shifting path in the dance that will get her there, for she knows that Survival is Change. Be inspired by her Ambition and how she strides towards it, and reward her in kind
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (105-32)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 62|Judgement 62]] and [[#Judgement 144|Judgement 144]]

===Judgement 94===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Broc
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Eleri Bronwens Rest with 12 wains of mithril to be put towards the army currently mustering in Hercynia. The army will be put to use defending the Empires borders to help safeguard the spiritual centre of the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (576-268)

===Judgement 99===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Belloza Fidanza
* '''Judgement:''' Each summit, the Warforge project: Provides newcomers to Anvil with magical equipment to help support them as they settle into Anvil life; Ensures there is demand for the skills of Artisans and that they are Prosperously paid for their work. This project is guided by the hard work of Serafina di Sarvos who gets no reward for herself. The Synod recognises and rewards this hard work - and the promotion of Prosperity and Vigilance among Imperial citizens - with seven Thrones.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (722-228)

===Judgement 102===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Elysium
* '''Judgement:''' For their unwavering endeavour to thwart the Winter eternal Agramant, and the strides made along this path, the most impactful of which, so far, has been banning cannibalism. This was not a road without many obstacles and challenges along the way but even the mightiest forest can be felled one tree at a time. We reward Tyburn Weaver, Grandmaster of the Shuttered Lantern, 15 thrones from the Virtue Fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (352-292)

===Judgement 107===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Cyrus son of Noah
* '''Judgement:''' Award Merari, Senator for Bastion, 5 wains of white granite towards the restoration of Berechiah's Basilica in Bastion. It was hallowed with true liao in 385Y 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.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (570-210)

===Judgement 114===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Paulus Adelaar von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Lia Adelaar van Holberg plays the great game and has, with the Sandfisher loan for the Lakesedge Highway, taught the Sandfishers well how the League competes in life and keeps count in coin. By the ring on her finger does she wear her loyalty to this cause close. We ask the citizens of the League to hasten her work in bringing the Sandfishers to the Way and the Empire by supporting her congregation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (212-0)

===Judgement 130===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tamar
* '''Judgement:''' We seek to reward Rebekah of the Cenotaph for her work in uncovering and collating information about the "new" eternal threatening the Bay of Catazar. Her peerless pursuit of this task is a demonstration of the commitment that the Virtue of Ambition demands.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (300-0)

===Judgement 144===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Neala Blackhawk
* '''Judgement:''' Being Vigilant to the dangers of the world Paulk Thornweaver created and funded the Treji Armoury. His Ambition is to support all who take the field, so finances will never be a barrier to our people using the best equipment possible. The Treji Armoury saves lives, with his actions today having consequences for years to come. Virtue is in action and the Ambition of Paulk is worthy of recognition. Let us build him up as he has built up the people of our Nation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (90-72)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 62|Judgement 62]] and [[#Judgement 85|Judgement 85]]

===Judgement 146===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Sister Meredith
* '''Judgement:''' In her time as Conscience of the Senate, <u>Richard of Upwold</u>, inspired by a desire to build her fellows up, was instrumental in the creation of the <u>Judgement of Exhaltation</u>. This tool will enable us to better recognise deserving Imperials and virtuous Marchers. May her ambition live in our long Marcher memory! With her dogged stubbornness driving her Pride, she exemplifies the <u>Spirit of the Marches</u>.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (122-80)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 150|Judgement 150]]

===Judgement 150===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Alfred Aewalfson
* '''Judgement:''' The Marcher Nations Assembly recognises Jedidiah Boon for his tenacity and steadfastness in representing his constituents in Anvil. We would see him rewarded with a team at the Capodomus Cathedral so he may improve and strengthen his craft as a priest, and continue striving for his ambition of a greater and more Prideful Mournwold
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (198-52)
* '''Note:''' The judgement was in competition with [[#Judgement 146|Judgement 146]]

===Judgement 165===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ignacio i Zuhri i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' We the Freeborn Assembly claim the opportunity given by the Capodomus Cathedral to award Suspiria i Riqueza with an upgraded resource in recognition of their demonstrated Ambition.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (140-0)

===Judgement 171===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Amris Johan Merikovich
* '''Judgement:''' We the Varushkan National Assembly have heard the tale of Aunty Armand Mariyavich Remislav and seek to recognise and reward them. As Loremaster and Enchantress, now Wise One, they ensured their people knew the tales of Varushka, and taught them to respect their Elders, rather than respecting only Glory. They prepared and faced difficult choices as a Varushkan, not as a citizen of Dawn. They kept to the road, realising Dawn was no longer their home and led their house back to their ancestral home in Volodmartz. We seek to help them in reconstructing their Vale and call for the upgrade of their dragonbone forest.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (240-0)

===Judgement 175===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Chrysaor
* '''Judgement:''' Mori of House Elyan requires the necessary ingredients to upgrade her herb garden through a judgement of rewarding. With the intent to produce Bloodharrow Philtres to be used by Dawnish fighters in combat with the Druj.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (162-20)

===Judgement 186===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Caduceus of Aureate Peak
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise and seek to reward the AMBITION of Callista of the Dark Shard, who has worked throughout Urizen to see the ambitions of others be brought into the light and realised. Those inspired by their work to build a better empire through precise and elegant application of effort should heed the words of Estella Lucati at the consecration of Capodomus Cathedral and the work displayed there. Let us strengthen her congregation so they may continue to help all pursue their goals, for nothing is beyond our grasp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (164-10)

===Judgement 195===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Meep
* '''Judgement:''' The words of the Ancestors grow stronger in Anvil. They thunder in Orc ears at the Sentinel Gate, they observe the power that flows from the Imperial Regio, and last summit, our Shamans, heard them speak of Legends in the pit. Once again, the Consecration of Capodomus Cathedral calls out for an Ambition, and once again, the Shamans of Anvil answer with the words of Ancestors. The third gathering of “Audience of the Ancestors” speaks, and the Unshackled National Assembly echoes their words. We name KADD and their Ambition to liberate the orcs of the broken shore to be recognised by all Imperial Orcs. Gather your strength and help them build up their resource. May their Legend carry them Across the Abyss!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (40-0)

===Judgement 197===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Trencher Smoulder in the Cold
* '''Judgement:''' To my fellow citizens, I put myself forward as an individual who has exemplified myself as a Wintermarker. Through working with those who were abandoned by the Empire and left to Blood-on-the-Snow, I was able to bring them back on the path of the Way and help them mend their skein. This showed a love for three people and one nation. Let the Capodomus Cathedral uplift my hero's home as a beacon for all who strive.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (44-0)

==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>
<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 Summer 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>105 thrones, 1 crown, 7 rings</td><td>12 wains</td><td>8 wains</td><td>8 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>56 thrones, 4 crowns, 8 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>81 thrones, 7 crowns, 15 rings</td><td>nil</td><td>nil</td><td>8 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">
* 7 thrones to '''Belloza Fidanza''' following [[#Judgement 99|Judgement 99]] being upheld (margin 494)
* 5 wains of white granite to '''Cyrus, Son of Noah''' following [[#Judgement 107|Judgement 107]] being upheld (margin 360)
* 12 wains of mithril to '''Broc''' following [[#Judgement 94|Judgement 94]] being upheld (margin 308)
* 3 wains of white granite (out of 8 requested) to '''Arawyn Whisperleaf''' following [[#Judgement 80|Judgement 80]] being upheld (margin 202)
* 7 thrones, 6 crowns to '''Eddard Warmhearth''' following [[#Judgement 72|Judgement 72]] being upheld (margin 126)
* 50 thrones to '''Starac Sijed Orzel''' following [[#Judgement 5|Judgement 5]] being upheld (margin 78)
* 15 thrones to '''Elysium''' following [[#Judgement 102|Judgement 102]] being upheld (margin 60)
</div>

Click ''Expand'' to see a list of donations made during the summit.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
* 55 thrones for the Bourse dose of True Liao from '''Trencher Smoulder in the Cold'''
* 6 crowns from '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian'''
* 4 crowns, 17 rings from '''Leonardo i Del'Toro i Riqueza'''
* 1 crown from '''Berith Martel'''
* 11 rings in small donations
</div>

==Doses of True Liao==

Seven 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 the '''Earl of Fools''' via [[#Judgement 3|Judgement 3]]
* One dose to '''Trencher Smoulder in the Cold''' by purchase in the [[Public auction|Public Auction]]
* One dose to '''Moraža, Boyar of the Darkwater Vale''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Percival of the Summerstrong''' by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#The_Just_Rewards_of_Your_Labours|gifted]] by the [[Sumaah Republic]] to [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#Flames_and_Faith|'''Boorra Talighar''']] by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to '''Luca di Sarvos''' by resolution of the [[Sun_Chamber#Past_Lives|Sun Chamber]]

==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 || 46 || 634 || 318
|-
|Courage || 35 || 439 || 220
|-
|Loyalty || 79 || 1136 || 569
|-
|Pride || 34 || 446 || 224
|-
|Prosperity || 37 || 459 || 230
|-
|Vigilance || 60 || 802 || 402
|-
|Wisdom || 54 || 730 || 366
|-
|The Way || 28 || 312 || 157
|-
|General || 373 || 4958 || 2480
|-
|}

{|
! scope=""col"" style=""width: 320px;"" | National Assembly
! Assembly Size
! Total Voting Strength
! Greater Majority Threshold
|-
|Brass Coast || 19 || 244 || 123
|-
|Dawn || 55 || 721 || 361
|-
|Highguard || 82 || 1262 || 632
|-
|Imperial Orcs || 8 || 106 || 54
|-
|League || 33 || 478 || 240
|-
|Marches || 26 || 306 || 154
|-
|Navarr || 43 || 511 || 256
|-
|Urizen || 30 || 370 || 186
|-
|Varushka || 38 || 512 || 257
|-
|Wintermark || 39 || 448 || 225
|-
|General || 373 || 4958 || 2480
|-
|}

==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 Autumn Equinox interlude

2025-08-01T12:55:18Z

RichardRaynor: /* Military Units */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 550px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=A Glorious Gala.jpg|align=left|width=550}}</div>
==Overview==
Downtime following the Summer Solstice will soon be open, allowing players to process their character's downtime choices. Not all resources allow a player to make a choice about how they operate between events, but we've provided information about new opportunities for [[fleet]] and [[military unit]] owners in particular as well as a reminder about existing opportunities created at earlier events.

On this page we'll be outlining, and offering some context for, various effects and events. As always, these include quick summaries, mostly out of character, to explain effects such as large-scale [[enchantment|enchantments]] and [[curse|curses]]. In some cases, there may be further developments around these events in the Autumn Equinox winds of fortune, or they may be handled with a ''Resolution'' entry on the appropriate Wind.

'''The deadline for Downtime submissions is Midnight on TBC.'''

==Choices==
* '''During the Summer Solstice, there were a number of Senate motions, Conclave declarations, Synod judgements, and Military council orders'''
Each summit the [[Imperial Senate]] raises and votes on [[Senate motion|motions]], the [[Imperial Conclave]] debates [[declaration|declarations]], the assemblies of the [[Imperial Synod]] discuss [[judgement|judgements]], and the [[general|generals]] of the [[Imperial Military Council]] issue [[Army orders|orders]] to their [[Imperial army|armies]]. You can find details of these many decisions here:
* [[387YE Summer Solstice Senate sessions|Senate sessions]]
* [[387YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements|Synod judgements]]
* [[387YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|Conclave sessions]]
* [[387YE Summer Solstice Military Council orders|Military Council orders]]
The Civil Service is responsible for ensuring that these motions, judgements, declarations, and orders are public knowledge. Not everything is widely distributed across the Empire, but any character who attends [[Anvil]] can easily find out details of what went on in the houses of power during the event.

==Imperial Guerdon==
The Imperial Guerdon is a bursary set up by the Imperial Senate primarily to reward military units that support Imperial armies, spy networks, and fortifications. The value of the Imperial Guerdon is divided between each military unit and fleet that supports an army in proportion to their effective strength. The [[Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] has the power to exclude any or all Imperial armies and navies, fortifications, or special projects (such as spy networks) from the Guerdon. If they do so, then a character who supports such an army, fortification, or special project will receive nothing for doing so.

The Guerdon remains at 150 thrones.

This season, the [[Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] has announced that shares of the Guerdon will be shared between military units supporting the following armies:

* [[Boyar's Hasta]] in [[Sarangrave]]
* [[Citadel Guard]] in [[Sarangrave]]
* [[Wolves of War]] in [[Therunin]]

And the following fortification

* [[Liathaven#Schogsfestnir|Schogsfestnir]] in [[Liathaven]]

No other armies, or actions by military units or fleets, will receive shares of the Guerdon.

==Military Units==
* '''Players who control military units can choose from a number of downtime options'''
* '''Not every military unit is eligible to participate in every venture'''
* '''Left to their own devices, a military unit defaults to the ''mercenary work'' option'''
Any player whose character controls a [[military unit]] can choose from several downtime options by logging into the downtime system. They may choose to [[Military_unit#Campaigning|support an army]], [[Military_unit#Guarding|defend a fortification]], or [[Military_unit#Scouting|support a spy network]]. They can also choose one of the many [[Venture|ventures]]. Left to their own devices, a military unit defaults to [[Venture#Mercenary_Work|mercenary work]], guaranteeing an income of money along with a random chance of herbs, more money, mana crystals, ingots or measures.

Players who want to support one of the [[Imperial army|Imperial armies]] can also read the [[Army_orders|orders]] issued by each [[general]] before making their decision. These orders are a matter of public record within the Empire and also available on the '''[[387YE Summer Solstice Military Council orders]]''' page. This new page makes it easier for players to read all the orders before making a decision; previously the only way to do this was to painstakingly click every army in turn. It's also possible for players without military units to see the orders, without waiting for the Winds of War (assuming the orders related to an area that produced a full write-up).

As always, the guidelines around discussing military matters online can be found [[Online#You_May_Not_Post_Military_Updates|here]].

==Fleets==
* '''Players who control fleets can choose from several downtime options'''
* '''Left to their own devices, a fleet defaults to the ''maritime escort'' option'''
Any player whose character controls a [[fleet]] can choose from several downtime options by logging into the downtime system. They may choose to [[Fleet#Trading|trade]] with a [[Foreign_ports|foreign port]], engage in [[Fleet#Raiding|raiding]] barbarians, [[Fleet#Questing|quest]] in search of glory or renown, [[Fleet#Scouting|scout]] either to support a [[smugglers cove]] or as part of another stealthy option, or commit to [[Fleet#Guarding|guarding]] a convoy of other ships.

Left to their own devices, a fleet defaults to [[Voyage#Maritime_Escort|maritime escort]], guaranteeing an income of money along with a random chance of herbs, more money, mana crystals, ingots or measures.

The Empire does not currently have any [[Imperial navy|navies]], and there are currently no campaigning actions available, so it is not possible to take [[Fleet#Campaigning|campaigning]] action, but if it were, then details would be included on the Military orders page.

===Trade Summary===
* '''Imperial fleets can trade with ports in Axos, the Commonwealth, Faraden, the Iron Confederacy, the Sarcophan Delves, and the Sumaah Republic'''
* '''Production depends on the port chosen, and can be increased by upgrades and enchantments'''
Imperial fleets can [[Fleet#Trading|trade]] with a number of foreign nations who have chosen to open some of their ports to visitors from the Empire. The assumption is that a ship trading with a foreign nation makes enough from selling their cargo to cover their running costs, crew salaries and the like, but that there is enough profit to provide the character who owns the fleet with valuable goods of interest to the folk who attend [[Anvil]]. What goods are received for visiting a port is changeable, and heavily influenced by Imperial diplomacy.
* '''Axos:''' The ports of the '''[[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]]''' and '''[[Foreign_ports#Axos|Chambers of Issyk]]''' welcome Imperial fleets, and their production has been altered. You can find out more about the changes made in the '''[[A_better_future#Kantor|A better future]]''' wind of fortune
* '''Commonwealth:''' The ports of '''[[Foreign_ports#Leerdam|Leerdam]]''' and '''[[Foreign_ports#Volkavaar|Volkavaar]]''' welcome Imperial traders and their production has been significantly altered. You can find out more about the new items on the '''[[According_to_principle#New_trade|According to principle]]''' wind of fortune.
* '''Faraden:''' The port of '''[[Foreign_ports#Caitun|Caitun]]''' welcomes Imperial fleets. Fleets from the Marches and Wintermark benefit from a 1 rank bonus due to close proximity. The production of Caitun has shifted to no longer produce ingots of orichalcum. Instead, a starting fleet will produce a cube of mooncheese. You can find out more about the situation on the '''[[Wild_is_the_wind#Faraden_Luxuries|Wild is the wind]]''' wind of fortune.
* '''Iron Confederacy:''' The port of '''[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]''' is available for Imperial fleets.
* '''Sarcophan Delves:''' The ports of '''[[Foreign_ports#Sarcophan|Sarcophan]]''' and '''[[Foreign_ports#Betovering|Betovering]]''' welcome Imperial traders.
* '''Sumaah Republic:''' The port of '''[[Foreign_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]]''' welcomes Imperial traders, and its production has been significantly altered. You can find out more about the changes on the '''[[Friend_of_mine#Inspire_Others|Friend of mine]]''' wind of fortune.

==Congregations==
* '''In addition to the standard preaching options taken by owners of congregations, special ''lectures'' may be available'''
During downtime, the owner of a [[congregation]] can choose to take a [[Congregation#Downtime_Options|preaching]] action. Normally these actions are used to preach one of the Imperial virtues, or the general teachings of [[the Way]], allowing a Synod member to change which of the virtue assemblies they belong to.

After the Summer Solstice, there is a single additional preaching option available; a ''lecture''.

===Encourage pilgrimage to Hacynian===
* '''Anyone with a congregation can choose to preach Wisdom by encouraging pilgrims to visit the Great Library'''
* '''A congregation that takes the ''Preach Wisdom - Encourage Pilgrimage to Hacynian'' action will receive three less liao but four more Synod votes than usual'''
* '''A congregation that takes this action will be in the Wisdom Assembly at the next summit'''
For the next year, until the end of the Spring Equinox 388YE, any congregation leader is able to select "'''Preach Wisdom - Encourage Pilgrimage to Hacynian'''" when [[Congregation#Downtime_Options|preaching]]. Priests who take this option are assumed to be making use of the [[liao]] they receive to inspire congregants to make the difficult journey to the Great Library. After those who are brave enough to make the journey experience the awe-inspiring power of the true aura in the shrine, they will return to their home inspired to embrace Wisdom and pursue it, in the certain belief that inaction is the only true mistake.

A congregation that preaches this special action will receive three fewer [[liao]] each season (assumed to have been spent on creating auras or used to provide patronage), but four additional votes in the Imperial Synod (representing the swelling of their congregations). The priest leading the congregation will become part of the Wisdom Assembly if they were not already.

==Arcane Projections==
* '''The deadline for submitting an arcane projection has changed'''
* '''Going forward arcane projections must be submitted before the close of downtime'''
* '''It is not possible to submit arcane projections that create personal curses'''
The deadline for submitting an [[arcane projection]] has changed from the late booking deadline, to the close of downtime. This is a significantly shorter window than previously. We've made this change to improve our ability to process arcane projections - an earlier deadline means that the game team have more time to consider each arcane projection, which will allow us to be more detailed and consistent in our responses.

As detailed in the '''[[Patterns_of_fairytales#Wyrm_and_Mountain|Patterns of fairytales]]''' wind of fortune, it is not currently possible to create an arcane projection that involves a [[curse]] directed at a character.
===Colleges and Forges===
* '''We've changed the email address for college of magic and runeforge submissions'''
It is important for characters responsible for a [[college of magic]] or [[runeforge]] to remember that the deadline for submitting rituals for codification, or instructions to the runeforge, is also the point that downtime closes. You ''must'' use let us know how you plan to use your college or forge by this point, otherwise it will not be possible to submit anything and the season will be lost.

We've also made a small change there; the e-mail address to which such instructions should be sent is now [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] rather than rules. The rules decisions about an arcane projection that is being codified, or a new item, have already been made and it is plot that deals with the creation of ritual texts, unique items, or schema.

==Miscellaneous Effects==
* '''After every event there will be a range of special effects that have an impact on downtime'''
* '''Each effect is automatically applied to the appropriate personal resources; this provides details of what has caused each effect'''
Every season sees large-scale effects impact individuals and nations. Some arise as the result of [[Judgement|Synod judgements]], [[Senate motion|Senate motions]] or [[Declaration|Conclave declarations]]. Others are the results of winds of fortune or war, or magical effects such as [[enchantment|enchantments]] or [[curse|curses]]. Each such effect is mentioned in your downtime if it affects your personal resource, along with a brief summary of what is going on. This list provides more detail, and is also useful for knowing what is going on in the wider Empire.

===The Ossium Wayhouse (Navarr)===
* '''Any Navarr character can take a new resource in Ossium for free until the end of downtime'''
* '''Any Navarr character with a resource in Ossium counts as being in Therunin for voting in senatorial and similar elections'''
A wayhouse has been built in [[Ossium#Nearweald|Nearweald]]. The wayhouse was completed shortly before the Summer Solstice, and this season Navarr can move to Ossium without the usual two crown cost.

===Blood Red Bequest (The League)===
* '''The Blood Red Gallery, Blood Red Museum, and Bloody Great Theatre no longer provide bonus production to congregation owners in the League'''
* '''A seasonal bequest of ten thrones has been granted to the Vallornguard'''
The League Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_18|mandate]] raised and enacted by '''Estella Lucati''' to encourage the patrons of the [[Lorenzo's Legacy|Lorenzo's Legacies]] to support the [[Vallornguard]]. Congregation owners in Sarvos, Tassato, and Temeschwar no longer receive an additional two doses of [[liao]] each season.

===Art of the Tomb (Highguard)===
* '''The Council of Benefactors have endorsed certain Sarcophan merchants buying Highborn funerary goods'''
* '''Every business and mine in Highguard receives an additional 18 rings a season until the start of the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
A deal made between benefactors of Highguard and a Sarcophan sect has resulted in funerary goods being in high demand. Every Highborn [[business]] and [[mine]] owner receives an additional 18 rings each season until the start of the Spring Equinox 388YE. More information can be found in the '''[[Can%27t_give_everything_away#The_Art_of_the_Tomb|Can't give everything away]]''' wind of fortune.

===Stone, Branch, Fen, and Ice===
* '''The Basalt Citadel has been cast on one region'''
* '''Dripping Echoes of the Fen has been cast on two regions'''
* '''Forge the Wooden Fastness has been cast on one region'''
* '''Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae has been cast on three regions'''
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:800px;"}
|-
! Ritual !! Region !! Coven
|-
| [[Basalt Citadel]] || Eoradal, [[Mareave]] || Heralds of the Reaper
|-
| [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] || West Marsh, [[Kallavesa]] || Sussivari Frost Coven
|-
| [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] || Proceris, [[Zenith]] || Sussivari Frost Coven
|-
| [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] || Alderly, [[Mournwold]] || Goatsbridge Coven
|-
| [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] || Serra Damata, [[Kahraman]] || Voices of the Unbound Storm
|-
| [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] || Icarion, [[Mareave]] || Phoenix Rising
|-
| [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] || Hope's Rest, [[The Barrens]] || Phoenix Rising
|-
|}

===Rivers Run Clear (Mournwold)===
* '''Rivers of Life has been cast on the Mournwold'''
* '''As well as reducing casualties to armies in the territory, the magic infuses all water there with life-giving Spring power'''
The Imperial territory of [[Mournwold]] has had [[Rivers of Life]] woven over it. This potent magic preserves life, healing all save the most grievous wounds overnight and infusing water across the territory with restorative powers. This powerful effect has been created by the [[the Marches|Marcher]] coven, '''Goatsbridge Coven'''. As well as the typical effect of reducing losses to any [[Imperial army|armies]] fighting in the territory, the magic has other more narrative effects. Wounds heal, animals and plants are healthy and fertile, and people find it easier to start or expand their families.

===Imperial Veil (Casinea)===
* '''A colourful display is in effect in the night sky of Casinea
* '''It is clear to anyone in the territory that this is the result of Night magic
The stars above Casinea shimmer and subtly shift. A towering, luminous figure appears in the heavens — a vision of the Emperor, cloaked in midnight robes speckled with constellations, crowned with silver fire. Around her, seven cloaked silhouettes drift in a perfect circle — indistinct, archetypal, unknowable. They lift their hands, and in her palms appears a crystalline model of the Empire, glowing and fragile. Slowly, she closes her fists, and as the land shatters like glass, it explodes into radiant motes of stardust, illuminating the sky in a celestial snowfall of glowing white specks. These motes drift downward for the next hour, like gentle ash or snow, disappearing before they reach the ground — but visible to all who look upward.

Any further effects of this ritual will be in the winds of fortune released before the next event.

===A Shining Beacon (Madruga)===
* '''Shimmering spheres of light have appeared in Calvos Sound, Lightsea, Free Landing, and Siroc Bayou'''
* '''It is clear to anyone in the territory that this is the result of Summer magic'''
In Madruga, in each coastal region, a large sphere of white light appears at the highest point next to the sea. The light is exceptionally bright, making it almost painful to look at. During the day this is less of a problem, but at night it is visible for many miles across both sea and land.

Any further effects of this ritual will be in the winds of fortune released before the next event.

==Magical Lore==
* '''Every summit it is possible that new rituals, magic items, or potions may become available to Imperial citizens'''
* '''Some of these options are only available to characters from certain nations, such as those entered into Urizen Lore or Runesmith's Law'''
During the Summer Solstice, two rituals were put forward for inclusion in Imperial Lore:
* Bulging at the Seams raised by '''Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato'''
* [[Petrifying Command of the Tyrant]] raised by '''Syl''' and funded by '''Ematius of the Great Library of Ankarien'''
No new rituals became part of [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore|Urizen lore]], and no new magic items were added to [[Wintermark_economic_interests#Runesmith.27s_Law|Runesmiths Law]].

==Further Reading==
* [[Downtime]]
* [[Resource#Personal_Resource|Personal resource]]
* [[Recent_history#Summer_Solstice|Summer Solstice recent history]]

Winter magic

2025-07-30T20:34:01Z

RichardRaynor: /* Endings */ sp

{{CaptionedImage|file=Winter tree.jpg|align=right|title=An original piece by Xanthippe of Urizen|caption=The magic of Winter is old, hungry, and cruel but also wise.|width=300}}
==Overview==
The magic of Winter is old, hungry and cruel but also wise - it has seen all the horror the world has to offer, and it has triumphed over it. Winter magic is dangerous to the wielder and the world, but its power cannot be denied and it is honest about the harm it may cause. It is not evil in a human sense - it simply wells up from dark places that have little regard for the weakness of humans.

When most people think of Winter magic, they think of curses. The realm is adept at bringing harm to others, and no other realm is quite so adept at weaving ironic or unspeakable punishments. It is especially adept at delivering curses that deal with concepts of extreme age (crippling, tiredness, infirmity, withering sickness, mental degradation and even death), hunger (hunger and thirst for food and drink that cannot be allayed, robbing something of its joy or meaning, or more unpleasant urges such as a drive to commit cannibalism) and fear (everything from full-blown feelings of crippling fear to nagging doubts and uncertainties, an infestation of nightmares, or the slow eroding of hope into despair). These curses can also become blights that affect larger areas, or they can become contagious effects that spread through a bloodline or town.

The realm is also hungry, a hunger that can manifest in the form of rituals that prey on other people or on binding ravenous spirits into mortal flesh. Stealing someone’s youth to prolong your own life, or consuming their power to gain a little of it yourself both resonate with Winter. These rituals are never an even trade – a large portion of whatever energy they deal with is bled off into Winter – and they often come with other dreadful downsides (they might be addictive, for example, or need to be repeated regularly to avoid a painful and messy death). There is often a sacrifice with Winter magic - but it is the sacrifice of the self for others not the sacrifice of others for the self.

At its heart, this realm is old and it understands the power that fear and death have over the living. Yet from this understanding grows wisdom - and from wisdom comes a very different form of power. No realm approaches the potency of Winter when it comes to creating wards, bindings or oaths.
__TOC__
There are of course mystics and scholars say that the magic of Winter is innately dangerous. They claim that each magical effect ended, each portion of energy consumed, and each incident of destruction somehow “feeds” the Wasteland. The energies it consumes are gone forever, and eventually all the magic in the world will be swallowed up by Winter, bringing an end to creation. Another group disagree – they claim that by using the magic of Winter the magician steals power from the Realm, postponing the eventual death of creation. Magicians who work powerful Winter rituals often speak of the magic as being dangerous - predatory or watchful. They must wield it without fear, without showing the slightest weakness, because if they do they can sense that the cold, cruel magic will take advantage and turn against the practitioner.

Winter magic is the most powerful because it is honest - it is power stripped of deception - and because it deals with the inevitable powers of death and decay. Those who wield Winter magic can become powerful protectors - or devastating villains.

==Resonance==
===Weakness===
The Winter Realm is preoccupied with ageing and especially with the weakness and infirmity that comes from old age and the realm resonates strongly with any rituals that produce similar effects. All manner of mortal ailments, even simple exhaustion, are likewise strongly favoured by the realm. Magics that weaken need not be limited to the body; Winter magic excels at weakening objects and structures, causing metals to corrode, wood to rot, and stone to erode. It can even be used to blight the land, however, the more powerful Winter destruction is, the slower and more insidious it tends to be.

Examples: the [[weakness]] spell, [[Withering Touch of Frost]], [[Crumbling Flesh and Withering Limbs]], [[Hungry Grasp of Despair]], [[Naeve's Twisting Blight]], [[Inevitable Collapse into Ruin]], [[Howling Despite of the Yawning Maw]], and [[The Grave's Treacherous Edge]].

===Endings===
Winter magic likes to bring things to an end. For many objects and buildings, this means their destruction, but Winter magic can be used in different ways to cause things to end. There is no generic "dispel magic" effect in Empire, but Winter is far and away the best realm to use to bring magic that is ongoing and active to an end.

Examples: the [[shatter]] spell, [[Black Iron Blade]], [[Words of Ending]], [[Ravenous Tongue of Entropy]], [[Devastating Scythe of Anguish and Loss]], [[Wind of Mundane Silence]], and [[Wither the Seed]].

===Hunger===
The physical needs of the body are a common theme of the realm, but this resonance incorporates more than just physical needs - it includes hunger in the metaphorical sense as well. Desires such as the hunger for power or for wealth are all claimed by Winter. Eating or consuming things, especially consuming something to gain strength by sating your hunger, are all powerful forces in Winter magic, as are any rituals that involve empowering yourself at the expense of others.

Examples: [[Coil of the Black Leech]], [[Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence]], and [[Gnawing, Endless Hunger]].

===Fear===
Fear is a powerful emotion throughout the Winter Realm and Winter rituals that create fear are especially potent. Almost any fear resonates in Winter: fear of death, fear of loss, or just fear of being hurt. This resonance also spans some of the things that help to feed fear, especially uncertainty and doubt. Strangely, fear is often seen as a positive force by many Winter eternals, who believe that it serves as a warning, helping individuals to realise when they are in danger.

Examples: [[Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt]].

===Wisdom===
Rituals that embrace wisdom and long memories, that provide the understanding that comes from experience, are all resonant with Winter magic. Traditions, especially traditional lore passed down from one generation to another, are considered precious by the realm, as is any wisdom inherited from the past. Lore about death, curses, and mortal threats are especially important, as are rituals that involve the preservation or recall of lost memories.

Examples: [[An Echo of Life Remains]], [[Wisdom of the Balanced Blade]], [[Ruthless Vigilance, Healthy Crop]] and [[Whispers through the Black Gate]].

===Oaths and Wards===
Both Autumn and Winter magic take a strong interest in statements of intent; while Autumn favours deals, pacts, and accords, Winter is most concerned with sworn oaths and geas. Winter magic wants to hold people to the words they speak, punishing those who break solemn vows. This binding nature of the Winter realm can also physically constrain people, creating wards that punish those who cross them.

Examples: [[Tribute to the Thrice-Cursed Court]], [[Pakaanan's Iron Shutters]], [[Hold Back Frozen Hunger]], [[There Is No Welcome Here]], [[Retreat to the White Caves]], [[Ward of the Black Waste]], and [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]].

===Cruelty===
To mortal eyes, the Winter Realm often appears cruel or heartless. Winter magic often comes with a price to be paid; the more powerful the magic, the more terrible the price. When questioned on such matters, Winter eternals do not deny that Winter magic can exact a cruel toll on its caster, but they claim it reflects the true nature of the world - that things cannot be achieved without sacrifice.

Examples: [[Pallid Flesh of the Dead King]], [[Sorin's Rite of Agony|Sorin's Rite of Agony]].
===Punishment===
Winter magic deals with many rituals that administer punishment. The Realm delights in punishing those who have transgressed with suitable consequences for their actions, but magicians are advised to use such power carefully. Those who use the curses and punishments of Winter magic indiscriminately may soon find their enemies wielding the same power on them in turn.

Examples: [[Traitor's Fate]], [[Freezing Brand of Irremais]], and [[Winter's Ghosts]].

===Survival===
The urge to survive is a powerful instinct of the Winter Realm, making rituals that draw on this resonance especially powerful. Winter magic can allow the beneficiary to endure pain or even resist death in the short term.

Examples: [[Hunger of the Draughir]], [[Unyielding Constitution]], [[Fight Tooth and Nail]], [[Unending Onslaught]], [[Wolves of the Hungry Sea]], and [[Last Breath Echoes]].

===Preservation===
Winter magic has a predilection for preserving things. It naturally seeks to oppose change, wanting things to remain as they are, even if this leads to stagnation.

Examples: [[Fallow Fields and Dried Meat]] and [[Mark the Flesh Incorruptible]].

===Death===
Death and the bodies of the dead are an obsession for many inhabitants of the Winter realm. Winter magic can speak to those who have recently departed and the realm includes divinations that can be performed on the bodies of the dead. Although there are no magics that can bring a person back from the dead, some of the most powerful Winter rituals allow the magician to summon drudges from the Winter Realm to occupy the bodies of the fallen, making them march at their command.

Examples: [[Quickening Cold Meat]], [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]], [[Last Breath Echoes]], [[An Echo of Life Remains]], [[Hold Back Frozen Hunger]], the [[Voice for the dead]] spell.

==Dissonance==
===Healing===
Although Winter magic can grant unnatural ability to survive, it is near powerless to heal those who have been harmed. Winter magic almost seems to prefer that the wounded suffer rather than recover swiftly. The realm takes no interest in rituals to provide good health and it would be desperately unwise to attempt to use the magic to improve fertility.

===Creation===
The Winter realm is strongly dissonant with any rituals that attempt to create. A skilled magician can use the Winter realm in constructive ways by destroying unwanted things allowing what remains to prosper, but the realm fiercely opposes any attempt to use it to construct or conceive new things.

===Hope===
There is no mercy in the Winter Realm; at best it can provide a sombre sympathy for the pain that life brings, at worst it takes a delight in the cruel and capricious nature of the mortal experience. The realm's inhabitants consider forgiveness to be foolish and weak and happiness to be the refuge of ignorant fools. Rituals cannot use Winter magic to create uplifting or positive feelings.

===Strength===
Winter does not strengthen or empower. It is extremely difficult for Winter magic to grant enhanced health, [[Combat skills#Endurance|endurance]] or [[Calls#Heroic_Calls|mighty blows]]. While a magician might shatter a shield with a touch of their rod, Winter cannot grant a warrior the supernatural strength needed to smash such a shield with their great weapon. The personal enchantments that Winter creates are about resisting death through increased [[Combat skills#Fortitude|fortitude]], or about enhancing personal power with a price (in the manner of rituals such as [[Sorin's Rite of Agony]]).

===Prosperity===
Winter ends where Autumn magic begins. It does not take for granted the idea that someone will be alive tomorrow in the way Autumn does. It is concerned with survival, not wealth. Winter does not work well with enchantments that deal with wealth, trade, commerce or creature comforts. It focuses towards the bottom end of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maslow%27s_hierarchy_of_needs hierarchy of needs].

===Community===
Winter encourages selfishness. Sometimes, hard choices are needed to provide security for oneself and the people one is responsible for. Winter magic works well with small groups, but the larger a group becomes the more likely Winter is to break that community down into several smaller groups. It often promotes an "us and them" attitude that makes complex, large-scale beneficial effects increasingly difficult.

{{Magic Links}}

[[Category:Magic Theory]]
[[Category:Magic]]
[[Category:Rules]]

Mitwold

2025-07-30T09:45:14Z

RichardRaynor: sp

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofMitwold.png|caption=The households of Mitwold engage in feuding and bitter rivalry.|title=Regions of Mitwold|align=left|width=500}}
==The Pride of the Marches==
Mitwold is arguably the richest of the Marcher territories. There's gold in the soil of Mitwold - the gold of rich harvests of fruit and grain. It has a substantial coast, scattered with small fishing villages and the occasional lonely watchtower. As one moves further inland, the rocky coast gives way to fertile chalk-soiled downs, with rich game-filled woodland, large [[farm|farms]], and prosperous [[market town|market towns]] beyond. The largest settlement in Mitwold - indeed in the Marches - is the "town" of [[#Meade|Meade]], standing proudly at the mouth of the river that shares its name. More a small city than a town, Meade is in some ways the beating heart of the Marches.

When the other nations imagine the Marches, it is usually Mitwold they bring to mind - acres upon acres of well-tended fields and orchards, laid out like a grand patchwork blanket, scattered with villages connected by roads and dirt tracks. Here and there a lonely menhir watches over the land around it, often marking a point of historical interest, or serving as a meeting place for the [[landskeeper|landskeepers]] of the adjoining area.

This is also the territory where many of the best known [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Sports_and_games|ball games]] are played, and it is a regular occurrence for some local dispute to be settled over a savage game of rugby, football or rounders. Some of the traditional inter-village or inter-household games go back centuries, having become regular fixtures long before the foundation of the Empire. Many have their own traditions - the people of Parkestown and Harwich in the [[#Maiden Downs|Maiden Downs]] compete annually to determine the control of a prime stretch of grazing land between their two villages, for example,

More than anywhere else in the Marches, the [[Marcher household|households]] of Mitwold are engaged in feuding and bitter rivalry. The closer two households are to one another, the more likely it is that they are engaged in a long-running feud. Often the original cause of the feud is lost to history, having become a self-perpetuating state of affairs as each slight delivered by a rival becomes justification for the retaliation that follows. These feuds rarely lead to bloodshed - it is a rivalry of skinned knuckles not bloodied knives.

==Recent History==
Mitwold's history has been comparatively peaceful. Bregasland and Mournwold provide a buffer, protecting it from the martial ambitions of the [[Jotun]]. That is not to say it has been without incident; several times in pre-Imperial history the people of the Marches were at war with the people of [[Wintermark]]. Lonely menhirs and stands of ancient trees along the northern borders of [[#The Meadows|the Meadows]] and [[#Meade March|Meade March]] mark ancient, largely-forgotten battlegrounds. From time to time, stories circulate of unquiet spirits around some of the barrow mounds - bitter Wintermark warriors interred in Marcher soil.

For the most part though, Mitwold has enjoyed the benefits of being a relatively safe place to live, secure in its prosperity - or as sure as any agricultural territory reliant on good harvests can be.

The [[March on their belly|disastrous failure of the Autumn harvest]] in 379YE was followed by a particularly [[March on their belly#Resolution|harsh winter]] during which all the farmers of the Marches suffered significant losses in order to keep the Imperial armies marching. Then the Spring 380YE planting was hit with torrential rains and a vicious blight that devoured many of the seeds before they can be put in the ground. While the rest of the Empire was enjoying a burst of [[The prime colour of the world|vitality and fertility]], the farms of Bregasland, Upwold, and Mitwold were once again labouring under the yoke of a vicious magical [[curse]] that ruined the crops, sapped the life from the beasts in the fields, and spread sickness and hunger wherever it touched.

The plan to construct the ''Imperial Breadbasket'' began in the markets of [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]] and received immediate support from [[market town|market towns]] across the Marches. Led by the people of Meade, the alders put their hands in their pockets - not as an act of charity, but as recognition of the fact the Marches prosper when the farmers prosper. It was an investment for the future, as well as an effort to "darn the rip" between the folk of the market towns, and the rest of the Marches. As a result, shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE, work was completed on a network of granaries and storehouses across Mitwold as part of the [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Granaries and Storehouses - the Imperial Breadbasket|Imperial Breadbasket]] [[great work]]. In addition to its work in securing the future of the Marches, this has helped to improve relations between the yeomanry and the residents of the market towns - reinforcing that even though they do not till the soil, they are still Marchers.

Shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, an earth tremor struck Mitwold, its epicentre near the town of [[#Wayford|Wayford]]. At first, the effects seemed minor - a little damage to some of the buildings in Wayford - but shortly after creatures similar to [[ogre|ogres]] began to appear in the area. Investigations by Marcher heroes discovered that the cause of the raids - if not the earth tremor itself - was an unnatural creature, buried deep beneath the earth. "Bloody Jack" appeared to be some sort of horrible troll creature, no doubt the source of the local legends of Jack-in-Chains. The entity lay at the bottom of an old stone-choked well, bound with magical chains - chains that had been damaged in the earth tremor and were close to breaking completely. The creature remained a threat to Mitwold until the Summer Solstice 381YE. With the [[Under_the_red_sky#Tharim|aid of the Winter Archmage]], several brave yeofolk made a bargain with the sinister [[eternal]] [[Tharim]], allowing the subterranean beast to once again be bound tightly. Several foolish youths tried to gain access to the troll-creature's tomb in search of treasure, but such expeditions were decisively curtailed by the placement of the Pale Chain, a white granite stone that now blocks the entrance to the well.

The business with Bloody Jack also brought to light stories of the Marcher blacksmiths - legendary figures who combined a practical appreciation for metalwork with a calling for negotiating with eternals. The exact story is still garbled, but it appears that these capable magicians disappeared from the Marches so long ago they have largely been forgotten as the result of a deal with the Autumn eternal [[Estavus]]. Several Marcher scholars are currently looking into the situation, and working to secure the return or release of this uniquely Marcher tradition - presuming that is even possible after all these years.

==Points of Interest==
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher Finery.jpg|caption=Bridget Talbot served as Senator for Mitwold in the difficult years after the death of [[Empress Britta]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
=== Meade ===
The largest settlement in the Marches is the city (technically a [[market town]]; it received its charter from [[Empress Mariika]] in 225YE) of Meade in [[#Meade March|Meade March]]. Crowded around the mouth of the eponymous river on the shores of Westmere, Meade is not only the spiritual and administrative heart for the nation, it is also a port whose ships deal in fishing, trade with foreign nations and sea defence against the barbarians through Westmere and the cold salt waters of the Gullet.

Meade is where yeomen from across the Marches come to spend hard-earned coin, and often plays host to foreign visitors from other nations. The lavish week-long Harvest’s End Festival takes place in Meade every autumn, and sees the city fill with folk from all across the Empire. Still, Meade is not without its problems. Some yeomen look askance at the citizens, questioning how they can be ''proper'' Marchers given they live in a town rather than on a farm. To many of their critics, they are merchants, not true yeomen. They point to the scandal during the reign of [[Empress Giselle]] when several alders were implicated in a plot to secede from the Marches - a plot that never had much popular support but whose existence alone was enough to rekindle rumours that the folk of Meade are "not proper." At the same time, the alders of Meade know that their settlement is not even half the size of the great cities of [[the League]], and this can lead to efforts to try and compete with the [[The_League_leadership|merchant princes]] of [[Tassato]] and [[Temeschwar]] with predictably disappointing consequences.

Still, regardless of the past and the attitude of some suspicious yeomen, the people of Meade are Marchers through-and-through. They are practical, stubborn people who hold fiercely to the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs|traditions]] of the Marches. As their recent involvement in the formation of the Imperial Breadbasket demonstrates, when push comes to shove they look out for their own people - the people of the Marches.

In the wake of the death of [[Empress Britta]] in 376YE, semi-organised groups of bandits began to prey on traders travelling by land from Meade. By [[Town defences|order]] of the [[Imperial Senate]], in early 377YE a series of watchtowers and earthworks were constructed around Meade to help address this problem. The works were overseen by Bridget Eastville née Talbot (senator for Mitwold) as part of a larger plan to provide protection to towns throughout the Empire. While the defences are not sufficient to qualify Meade as a true [[fortifications|fortification]], they have already helped reduce brigandry throughout the territory.

The [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] has a small office in Meade, although most title holders spend little time there (apart from overseeing the security of the grand market on the third weekend of each month). The Bailiff is an [[Imperial title]] appointed each Winter Solstice by the farmers of the Marches.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Forte Fidelis.jpg||caption=Built by Richard Tunstall to guard Mitwold from Jotun aggression.|align=right|width=350}}
===Forte Fidelis===
In 377YE '''Richard Tunstall''', as the [[Imperial Master of Works]], approved the creation of Forte Fidelis in Golden Downs. It was one of only two castles approved by the Master before the Senate [[Amend_powers_of_Imperial_Master_of_Works|removed their ability to do so]]. Construction was funded partly by the Master's stipend (before it was removed by the Senate), and partly by money raised and donated by the Marchers themselves. Work on the fortification was completed shortly before the Winter Solstice 378YE.

The fortification was completed while the [[Accept_Jotun_ceasefire|Jotun ceasefire]] was still in place as a counter to Mitwold's perceived vulnerability to attack from the Mournwold, once hostilities inevitably resumed. Surrounded on all sides by a deep moat, accessible only by a relatively narrow bridge. the castle has yet to see combat. It takes its name from the [[Languages#Latin|Old Asavean]] motto of the Talbot household - "forte et fidelis." Following his retirement from Imperial politics, Richard Tunstall still serves as the castellan, ensuring that the castle is prepared for any potential invasion of Mitwold.

=== Hay ===
“The golden fields of Hay” appear in many a Marcher song. Hay is quintessential Marches, a small rural town set amongst rolling fields. Following the invasion of the Mournwold, the folk of Hay were been deeply concerned about the threat of further orc aggression. Several locals have formed themselves into the Hay Irregulars, an unofficial force dedicated to helping turn back the barbarians should they attempt a concerted raid. The Irregulars served with some distinction fighting off small bands of raiding Jotun, before the Mournwold was finally liberated in Autumn 381YE.

Hay is rightly famous for its fields of wheat, and for its bakeries. Many of the farmers of the [[#Golden Downs|Golden Downs]] bring their grain to market here, where a significant portion of it is used to make flour and bread products including the famous "Hay Huffer" - a crusty triangular bread roll with a thick, doughy texture designed to fill the bellies of labourers across Mitwold and beyond.

=== Wayford ===
A large market town at the confluence of the upper tributaries of the Meade. A layer of gritstone in between the chalk of the wolds means the river is wide and shallow, allowing livestock from the hills to cross, or embark on riverboats to Meade itself. Built along the southern borders of [[#The Meadows|the Meadows]], it is a bustling settlement known for its travellers' inns and for its monthly cattle and sheep markets. Merchants visiting Meade pass through Wayford, as do Marcher traders exporting food and drink to the wider Empire. The town is quite cosmopolitan - there is a large transitory population of [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]], [[the League|League]] citizens, and [[Navarr]] coming to Wayford to travel.

All this prosperous trade attracts its fair share of trouble, and the [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] is regularly called upon to deal with bandits and brigands preying on trade along the roads that pass through Wayford. At the river fork stand several gibbets with a long and bloody history, notable in recent years for playing host to Red Walder and his outlaws, a plague on the Mitwold for many years finally brought to justice in 359YE following a week-long standoff in the Shepford Brewery near the Wayford Bridge. The town is also notable due to legends of a monstrous creature known variously as [[Jack of Irons|Jack-in-chains]], Jack-of-Irons and Bloody Jack who is said to be buried somewhere nearby. Shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE, a menhir of white granite called [[#The Pale Chain|the Pale Chain]] was [[Construct_Giant's_Well|raised]] over the site where the giant is apparently entombed.

=== The Maiden Stone ===
An ancient menhir that stands in a scorched area of land in a grove of ash trees. Every year before the Spring festival the farmers of the area weave the largest straw dolly known in the territories. The Straw Maiden, as the creation is known, is 12 feet tall adorned with wild flowers with intricate patterns of vines woven into her skirt. The Maiden’s skirt is hollow at the base and she is placed atop the stone. The [[Landskeeper|landskeepers]] of the [[#Maiden Downs|Maiden Downs]] then perform a night-long ritual designed to bring prosperity to the fields and flocks of the people of the Downs. The Maiden then stands in the grove until the end of Summer, visited by travellers who leave gifts of food, [[The_Marches_hearth_magic#Poppets|poppets]], minor trinkets, and other offerings at her foot in the hope that she may bring them some small favour. Although the Maiden is exposed to all weathers and temperaments, she does not rot, blow away or decay in any way, staying as fresh and brightly golden as the day she was placed upon the stone. Then, at the festival of Autumn Harvest there is another ceremony, the culmination of which sees the Maiden set alight, burning until there is nothing left.

Needless to say, the ceremonies of the Maiden Stone are roundly criticized by priests of the [[Imperial Synod]]. There have been efforts by priests from outside the Marches to ban the practice, denounced as the worst kind of [[Religious_crime#Idolatry|idolatry]]. The [[Sevenfold Path]] has occasionally attempted to get the [[Imperial Conclave]] to [[Declaration#Declaration of Interdiction|interdict]] the ceremonies without success. In 186YE and 247YE, the ceremonies were stopped for a short time but in both cases resumed less than a year later.

The landskeepers of Meadow Downs claim that they are simply performing the three powerful farm-blessing [[enchantment|enchantments]] ([[Blessing of New Spring]], [[Strong Ox, Golden Sun]], and [[Gathering the Harvest]]) and that the gifts left by visitors are simply a harmless tradition. There is some evidence that the landskeepers also perform a rite in the depths of Winter without any witnesses; lurid speculation surrounds this ceremony.

===The Pale Chain===
The Pale Chain is a hulking monolith of white granite from [[Upwold#Sutton_Stone_Quarries|Sutton Stone Quarries]] raised near the town of [[#Wayford|Wayford]] shortly after the Autumn Equinox 381YE. The looming rock is engraved with a spreading oak tree above a three-link chain, giving the menhir its common name. Some rumours suggest there is a second engraving on the bottom of the stone, allegedly in the form of a peculiarly proportioned lion. The construction was plagued with problems and vocal accusations from some of the workers that the project was cursed. One of the skilled masons responsible for shaping the stone lost her arm as the stone was lowered into place, and many of those working on the site muttered in hushed tones of similar unlikely "accidents".

The Pale Chain covers the well where the ravenous giant known as "Bloody Jack" apparently lies forever entombed. The site is watched over by a handful of yeomen from [[The Marches groups#House_Guildenstern|House Guildenstern]] in [[Upwold#Stock_March|Stock March]] - something that has raised some hackles in Maiden Downs. There are also reports of a peculiar pale figure, wrapped in chains and with unpleasantly inhuman features, lurking near the stone on moonless nights - many believe this is one of the heralds of [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Tharim|Tharim]] that came to the Marches via the winter [[regio]] known as the [[Hunters_and_wolves#In_the_Copse_of_the_Bone_Birch|Copse of the Bone Birch]] in [[Upwold#Birchland|Birchland]]. According to local stories, if one approaches the stone on such nights and presses one's ear to the ground, a low rumbling voice can be heard from deep in the earth ranting and raving about thieves and liars. Local children have already begun daring one another to approach the stone and test this story out.

===Statue of Cockscroft Lad===
In 385YE, [[Siakha]] heralds [[When Spring comes|attacked]] a Wanderers-Allfriars game, killing thirty-two. '''Jonathan Piper of Cockscroft''', whose early warning prevented wider tragedy, is celebrated with a statue at the old Wanderers practice ground. His expression is mournful, head turned to the name-covered ball in his left hand as he raises a bell to call the hue and cry.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Householder.jpg|width=250|align=left}}

==Regions==
===Golden Downs===
The rich farms of Golden Downs are home to the prosperous village of [[#Hay|Hay]], as well as a number of smaller farming villages. It is also the location of the [[Keeper of the Golden Fields#The Silent Giant|Silent Giant]] standing stone that watches over the surrounding fields, and is in turn watched over by the [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]]. Several other stones mark the old boundaries of one farm or another but the Silent Giant is the largest.

For the last three decades, the Golden Downs has been in a state of war-readiness, expecting an invasion from the Mournwold - indeed the Jotun raided north into the region many times over the duration of the occupation. Citizen militia such as the Hay Irregulars prided themselves on their readiness to fight off such raids, even in the absence of organised Marcher armies. Many [[military unit|independent Marcher captains]] cut their teeth taking [[Military_unit#Take_Independent_Action|paid work]] protecting the rich farms of Mitwold. The need for such special forces was reduced significantly in 377YE when the [[Imperial Master of Works]] approved the creation of [[#Forte Fidelis|Forte Fidelis]] in Golden Downs.

During the Jotun invasion of the Mournwold in 349YE, many of the citizens of [[Mournwold#Green March|Green March]] fled north to the Golden Downs; a long history of good relations and familial ties between the two regions helped to mitigate any negative effects of this influx of landless yeomen. Unlike many of the Mournwold refugees the majority of these former refugees show little interest in returning to reclaim the land they (or more often their parents) lost three decades ago.

===Maiden Downs===
The Downs are covered in a patchwork of wealthy and prosperous farms. Some outsiders attribute the success of the farms here to the magic of the [[#Maiden Stone|Maiden Stone]], but the yeomen who work the land here disparage such suggestions. Rather, they point out, their farms are prosperous because they work bloody hard to keep them that way. Still, the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Maiden Downs have a reputation for being a little peculiar, and to be significantly more secretive than those in the rest of the Marches - almost ''[[Bregasland|bregas]]'' in the words of some.

There are no large settlements in Maiden Downs - not even along the highway that links [[#Wayford|Wayford]] to [[Upwold#Stockland|Stockland]]. Farmers are as likely to sell their produce in either town, depending on which is paying the better price in any given season. This has led to a few feuds between households of Maiden Downs and those of Golden Downs and the Meadows over what is seen as "''a lack of loyalty to Mitwold''."

===Meade March===
*'''Quality:''' City, Coastal
Often called the heart of Mitwold, Meade March is the location of the small city of [[#Meade|Meade]], built at the mouth of the river that shares its name. Meade is prosperous, and its port bustling, and since the [[Dredge the Westmere|dredging of the Westmere]], the waters are now deep and wide enough to allow passage to an [[Imperial navy|navy]]. Before the Westmere was dredged the alders of the city occasionally discussed how dredging the river would allow the construction of a [[shipyard]], but there was never enough support for such a large-scale undertaking. With the river dredging complete there is now discussion on whether a shipyard will be built after all, or at least a [[fortification]] given that Meade is now potentially at risk of being sacked by a barbarian navy.

Outside of Meade, the Meade March is covered with farms and scattered villages, and even a few small towns. The yeomen here have a somewhat undeserved reputation in the rest of the Marches for considering themselves "''better''" than everyone else because of their proximity to Meade - of giving themselves "''airs and graces''". A common stereotype that appears occasionally in plays and stories is that of the Meade yeoman who farms their field wearing a rich outfit, more suited to a feast day than a work day. There is little factual foundation to this prejudice - although many yeomen of the Meade March visit the city at least once a season and thus have access to a significantly wider array of goods and cloth than residents of more isolated parts of the Marches.

===The Meadows===
While most of this region is rolling farmland, the northern Meadows abuts the [[Kallavesa#Wittal_Grove|Wittal Grove]] of [[Kallavesa]]. The woodlands are home to at least one group of [[Feni]], but for the most part the Meadows is a peaceful, pastoral place. Before the Empire, however, there were occasional clashes between Marchers and raiders from Wintermarker along the border, and the northern woodlands still have an unsavoury reputation as being haunted.

South of the border, the forests that once grew in the Meadows were cleared centuries ago. Here and there between the farms however, a lone tree stands as a boundary marker and a silent reminder of a time when much of the Meadows was covered in trees. These so-called ''Lone Oaks'' are reminiscent in some ways of the menhirs found in other parts of the Marches. According to tales told across the Meadows, in the first years of the Marches the northern woods were home to terrible monsters who regularly attacked people trying to settle north of the Meade river. Eventually, however, a wily blacksmith made a deal with the ruler of the monsters. The creatures would leave the settlers alone if in return the Marchers stopped cutting all the trees down. In the end the Marchers had the last laugh however - they cut down almost all the trees leaving only a scattering of Lone Oaks - but by the careful wording of the agreement the monsters were unable to harm the people of the Meadows as they had kept to the letter of their bargain.

In addition to its farms and eerie trees, the Meadows is also well known for its [[herb garden|herb gardens]], especially in the north. In particular, the quality of [[True Vervain]] grown in the Meadows is generally held to be unmatched in the Marches. The herbalists of the Meadows are known to make occasional pilgrimages north to Wittal, in Kallavesa, to share lore and trade herbs.

===Oddmire===
*'''Quality:''' Coastal, [[#Under Threat|Under Threat]] (Jotun) when the Jotun control [[Bregasland#Ottermire|Ottermire]]
When the Marchers first arrived in Mitwold, Oddmire was extremely marshy. Several decades of work reclaimed most of the region, despite the best efforts of angry [[marshwalkers]] to stop the draining of the swamps and marshes. There are still some treacherous bogs in Oddmire, especially along the southern and western borders with Bregasland, but the majority of the region is fertile farmland. As is traditional in the marches, there are large numbers of farms here, but there are also a few more isolated communities built on the small, rocky islands that lie along the southern shore of the Westmere.

The most prominent settlement here is assuredly '''Odd’s End''', a bustling fishing port. The fisherfolk of Odd's End are known to have something of a chip on their shoulder when it comes to the larger, more prosperous Meade. They fly their banner - a leaping salmon - proudly whenever they set sail and barely a year passes without a major row between fisherfolk from Odds End and boats out of Meade over fishing grounds. A well-respected monastery - Odd's House - stands near the port, dedicated to the virtue of [[Pride]], and the monks there regularly encourage the people of Odd's End to stand up for their rights against the larger Meade.

Beginning to rival Odd's End in prominence is '''Steward's Landing'''. In early 384YE, Imperial heroes [[By_fountains,_by_fishes#Steward.27s_Landing|stopped a Jotun raid]] from destroying this small coastal village. ''Jarvey "Strongoar" Oddsboy'', the steward of the small [[Marcher household]] who oversees Steward's Landing repaid that aid by throwing his full support [[By fountains, by fishes|behind the ambitious raids]] into [[Skallahn]]. By all accounts Jarvey and the rest of House Oddsboy did quite well out of [[Take it further|both raids]]. Part of his profits were put towards expanding Steward's Landing, and along with several fellow coastal stewards, they turned the village into a permanent staging post for Marcher [[fleet|ship captains]] - such as they are - to raid the coastline of Kalsea and [[Fleet#Raid_Kalsea's_coastline|take the wealth]] of the [[Jotun]]. The loot that passes through Steward's Landing has helped fund addition jetties, a boatyard, and expanded the prestige of House Oddsboy significantly.
<box>'''Odd of Odd's End'''<br>
Odd of Odd's End is a popular folk hero from the early days of the Empire, born around 45YE. She was an outspoken devotee of the virtue of [[Pride]], and in later life founded the [[monastery]] that still bears her name. Settling her folk on the shore when the Marchers first reached the Westmere, declaring that this would be the place where she would end her days, she was instrumental in the draining of Oddmire among other significant deeds. A series of stories, popular with Mitwold's mummers, recount the many deeds of this folk hero, especially her battles against marshwalkers, and her rivalry with the alders of Meade.<br><br>Despite her popularity, there has been no serious effort to have Odd recognised as an [[Paragons_and_Exemplars#Exemplars|exemplar]] by the [[Imperial Synod]]. When the matter has been raised, the abbot of Odd's End generally shrugs and responds with a variant of "We know she's an exemplar, why should we look to outsiders to confirm it?" Regardless, "Mother Odd" was recognised as an exemplar of Pride in 376YE, shortly before the requirements for [[recognition]] were made stricter. This appears to have had little effect on the people of Odd's End.</box>

==Special Qualities==
===Under threat===
* '''Oddmire'''
During the Winter Solstice 384YE, the Jotun worked with Marcher traitors to expand and reinforce the Otterway in Bregasland. Formerly a narrow raised track that could just about allow two ox carts to pass one another without falling into the fens, it is now a solid construction that would allow twenty soldiers to march abreast along it... into Mitwold.

'''Game Effect:''' While a region has the ''Under threat'' quality, the Jotun and their allies are considered to have a [[beachhead]] in that region. This means their armies will not suffer the usual penalty to take the first region in an enemy territory, as long as they are attacking a region with the ''under threat'' quality.

{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Mitwold|Territory=Mitwold|Season=Summer}}

==OOC Notes==
* All the regions of Mitwold are under Imperial control.
* [[#Forte Fidelis|Forte Fidelis]] in [[#Golden Downs|Golden Downs]] is a rank one [[fortification]].
* [[farm|Farms]] in the territory benefit from the [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Granaries and Storehouses - the Imperial Breadbasket|Imperial Breadbasket]] and the Black Canal and produce an extra 54 rings each season.
* [[Business|Businesses]] in the territory benefit from the Black Canal and produce an extra 18 rings each season
<ic>Ned shook his head, feeling the wounds under the brigantine. "The gambeson and the brig are holding everything closed Henry. Without the full services of the hospital in Anvil I won't be able to close them fast enough if we take it off. I'm so sorry my friend."

Henry Talbot sat with his back to the tumbled wall of the burnt out homestead, sweat plastering his dark hair to his forehead.

The flush of vigorous life had faded from his cheeks during the escape from the barbarians, but mischief still sparked defiantly in his eyes. Sun beat down and wisps of steam made thin halos about their heads. "Nothing you could have done Ned. Thank the boys for carrying me all this way... How long do you think?"

" It could be an hour, or as short as you..."

Ned paused as he reached into his pouch of herbs. A decade of hunts made him grab instinctively for his pike, the mating cry of a Bregesland Dove in the wrong season could only mean one thing.

"Cullach-A-Cullach!" Sounded to the right, accompanied by a gurgling squeal. A moment later two Orc scouts and a human slave burst from the bushes in front of them. Ned brought the pike to bear, but not fast enough.

The smaller of the two orcs, face split with a recent wound, shoved the slave into the pike and drove her body onto the shaft. Ned drew his dagger, but the orcs were on him before the sword was free. Not relishing the prospect of a standing fight they rushed forward and bore Ned to the earth.

In a flash decision Ned dropped the dagger, grasping the wrist holding a rusty knife and breaking the nose of the second Orc. Broken Nose rolled away from the melee, streaming blood and curses, while Split Face and Ned struggled over the knife.

Suddenly Henry was stood astride Split Face, Ned's dagger in hand. With a butcher's confidence he sliced Split Face's neck to the bone, drenching Ned in ichor.

Ned held fast to the rusty knife, taking it from unresisting hands. As he cleared his eyes Ned heard Henry grunt and the tip of a blade emerged from his stomach. Henry toppled and Broken Nose stooped over the to pull the notched sword free.

Roaring in fury, Ned kicked Split Face's body off and launched himself forward. The notched sword was trapped and useless between them, allowing Ned free reign with the rusty knife...

Ham came to check on them once the rest of the orc scouts were disposed of. Ned sat beside the ashen body of Henry Talbot, truely still now that he had begun his journey through the labyrinth. The remains of a human and two orcs lay in the remains of the herb garden. Not a word passed between the Cullach, just a look and a nod.

With great care they removed Henry's harness and hid it up the chimney of the homestead, suspended from the meat smoking hooks. Ham took the small antler handled knife from Ned's shaking hand and cut Henry's warm heart free from his chest. Ned knelt and filled Henry's mouth with Marcher soil, replaced in the oiled pouch by the heart. They closed his eyes and pushed the remaining wall of the homestead over him.

The fallen stones would conceal him from desecration and keep him from scavengers. Now they had to move on, their burden heavier than a dying friend.

"Rest well Henry Talbot, your march is done."</ic>

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial Territory]]

Follow me my friend

2025-06-08T14:00:53Z

RichardRaynor: sp

[[Category:Recent History]] [[Category:387YE Spring]] [[Category:Military Council]]
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Follow me my friend.png|caption=The armies of Wintermark fight the Lasambrian Jotun alongside their allies.|align=right|width=500}}</div>
==Where All That's Wrong is Right==
{{Audio|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zC7KRO0fs3I}}
The Winter Solstice has barely passed when the dead rise in [[Tassato]]. It is a cold night, and all save the most committed revellers and conspirators are eager for soft beds and something to warm their spirits before they rest. Those already asleep report dreams turned dark, full of bloody meat and hollow-eyed horrors. Those awake speak of a gusting sigh that passes over the city like an invisible wind. Minutes later, the thudding of bodies hurled against the doors of mausoleums, the scrabbling of claws on earth, the squelching of unquiet murder victims dragging themselves from the Vassa still burdened with bricks and chains. It is traditional in the League for citizens to be [[The_League_culture_and_customs#Funerals|cremated]], their remains scattered into the river. Only the wealthy, or those whose death is premeditated, are interred. It is these sorry corpses that the cannibal spirits unleashed by [[Winter magic]] seek out - the freshest dead first and then the cold bones and withered remains of the older cadavers.

The dead, empowered with movement and violence by unseen spirits, come from across the territory. Almost all are humans, though some have hijacked the remains of orc slaves who died in Tassato long before the Empire had ever heard of [[Known_exemplars#Thrace|Thrace]], or fell in the [[Shallows_and_miseries#Meanwhile_in_Tassato|recent attack]] on the [[Shallows_and_miseries#Meanwhile_in_Tassato|Sapphire Stair]]. Many are struck down by terrified Tassatans, but this does little to quell the flow of the dead. They flock to the banners of the [[Fist of the Mountains]], billeted in the Twin City since the Autumn Equinox last year, ensuring that everyone knows who is to blame for this outrage. They are expected; the magicians of the Empire have [[Quickening Cold Meat|quickened cold meat]], the phantoms unleashed by the [[enchantment]] defiling the resting places of the League dead.
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Many citizens of Tassato - both those of the cities and the towns beyond its walls - are furious, but they have little recourse for now. Less than a week after the dead rise, the Fist of the Mountains is on the move, south-west into Kahraman with the [[Bloodcloaks]]. They leave folk on both sides of the Vassa with shattered tombs, and the knowledge that their deceased ancestors are now nothing more than hosts for murderous winter spirits.
==In Loyalty We Stand==
From [[Mournwold]], the [[Autumn Hammers]] and the [[Summer Storm]] and the [[Bounders]] also pass through [[Mournwold#Southmoor|Southmoor]] into [[Kahraman#Braydon's_Jasse|Braydon's Jasse]]. Past the memorial that was once [[Kahraman#Fort_Braydon_(destroyed)|Fort Braydon]], down toward [[Segura]]. Down through the Cinnabar Hills they march, over the Sobral Bridge - the only remaining bridge that still spans the tumultuous Scorrero, a fragile umbilical for the people of the Brass Coast connecting them to the wider Empire. Down into dry [[Segura]], to the plains of [[Segura#Burnish|Burnish]]. A grand camp, for five armies, and for six thousand independent captains that flock to the banner of the Summer Storm - and for those thousand [[Quickening Cold Meat|flesh-hungry abominations]] that shadow the Fist.

All save the Fist are woven with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], helping their soldiers deploy almost without conscious effort in the most tactically advantageous locations. The Bounders arrive first, scouting the edges of the western hills for the best route into Reinos. Their beaters report the expected watchtowers, wide patrols, and simple defences - there will be little resistance to the armies as they cross from the Empire into the lands of the Lasambrian Jotun. To take a blade from the throat of the Freeborn, a people whose lands have been riven by war and disaster almost constantly since the time of [[Empress Britta]] and before. To bring battle to the lands of the southern orcs, to their allies who pride themselves wise in the ways of virtue.

The commanders meet in counsel, studying the maps and scouting reports, quickly allocating tasks and routes, the magic of the [[Realm#Day|Day realm]] smoothing and speeding each discussion. Only the Winterfolk of the Fist of the Mountains are left slightly apart, not possessed of the supernatural clarity. Yet there is more to their separation than simply the lack of an enchantment; there is something about the army that feels a little off-centre, a little different. Even the Bloodcloaks can feel it. The presence of the barely contained flesh-tearing abominations, many still in the tattered funeral finery of the wealthy Tassatan, is surely grim but they are not a new experience for many of these soldiers. This is something else.

Some of the Winterfolk soldiers seem just a little too eager to fall on the western barbarians, a little too quick to sing songs and tell tales of bloodshed and slaughter. There are scuffles between soldiers of the Fist and those of other armies, and keen-eyed Bounders murmur unsettling tales of a great black dog with burning eyes that lurks and slinks through the Wintermark camp. The [[Imperial_Orcs_magical_traditions#Oathwrights|oathwrights]] who accompany the Hammers and the Storm exchange concerned looks, and in whispered tones out of earshot of their Winterfolk allies, they discuss the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Military_Council_orders#Fist_of_the_Mountains|orders spoken by the general]] at [[Anvil]].

There is little time for introspection or worry about this - there is a campaign to fight - a new campaign in the south-west Empire. The strategy set, the armies begin to move as one force across the western border of Segura into the Lasambrian Hills.

==Fig Trees and Olive Groves==
It's been a long time since Imperial boots trod the dust of the western hills - not since that time long ago when the Empire sent mercenaries to [[Strange allies|fight alongside the Hierro against the Jotun invaders]]. Now the armies of the Empire come in force, with a very different agenda perhaps. They cross from Burnish into the olive groves and fig trees of [[Reinos#Ribeira|Ribeira]]. They are not unexpected; the patrols and garrisons of the watchtowers have been reinforced since the Winter Solstice it seems. The orcs of Reinos know that the long-debated [[So far so fast|peace treaty]] between the Lasamabrian Jotun and the Empire has been [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Lasambrian_Treaty|rejected by the Senate]], and while they are not aware of the coming attack they are clearly [[Vigilance|vigilant]] against the threat from the Empire.

The Imperial strategy is a [[Army_orders#Balanced Attack|considered]] and [[Army_orders#Steady_Conquest|careful]] steady advance, seeking to minimise the loss of lives rather than try to capture as much land as possible - yet with the support of [[Day magic]] it is still effective at neutralising the border defences of Reinos and moving consistently forward. The expert healers of the Bloodcloaks [[Army_qualities#Woundbinder|work tirelessly to heal]] those injured in the fighting, establishing mobile field hospitals and supply points along the routes back into Imperial territory.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Ashborn Vana, General of the Autumn Hammers"><small>Hammers, we march into Jotun Lands. We take the fight to them. We fight to show our loyalty to the Empire and take blades away from the throats of the freeborn. We show the Jotun they can bleed not only in blood, but coin too, where the Lasambrians feel it most. We call upon the contracts in the Autumn Realm with Callidus and their heralds to Plunder Reinos with us. Draw the Jotun Down.</small></quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Irontide Skorr, General of the Summer Storm"><small>Legionnaires of the Summer Storm, we continue to fight the Jotun. Using a well balanced attack and the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage. Defend those behind us.</small></quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Mary Birchsmith, General of the Bounders"><small>Bounders, we pause to help our siblings in the Brass Coast. Our war is not over, but we share an enemy. Through Steady Conquest into Reinos via Burnish in Segura we will draw them out and give us the time we need, together in loyalty we will stand, the Jotun will fall and we will not be alone but we will not leave others alone. We must be united.</small></quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Lofyn Bloodcloak, General of the Bloodcloaks"><small>My Cloaks, my Pride for too long have the enemies of our empire coveted the freeborn lands. Arrogant in their brazen bantering and merciless onslaughts. Now is the time to show the freeborn that their homes and families are not coins to be counted in a bargain, if they are a cost it is a cost too high. Strike into Reinos, free thralls and recover the lost and fallen who march beside us. Show the Jotun and Lasambrians that we will not sell the coast and if they believe that we are weak of heart or will. They will not have been paying attention. Crusade!</small></quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Umarth 'Winter's Flame' Kannath, General of the Fist of the Mountains"><small>Under the Shining Claw, that great Tusk, we etch Rhiv, the rune of Blood into our weapons. We call these ancient winter magics to us and I bind them to my purpose. A cost is always paid. My family paid that cost, the price of our ambition. Mercy, Thorn-in-place, my wife, died a shield to the Empire. Loyal to the end, remember her storm and learn. I bind the quickened cold meat to that purpose. Even in death, we will endure. Grandmother Winter sets us a riddle. We begin to have the answer. Mystics, cast the runes. Icewalkers, look far and carefully. Let us find the Pale Raven's answer. The weight of costs is heavy. We must all lift together. Into them!</small></quote></div>
The Autumn Hammers take a different approach; they have [[Army_qualities#Contracted|called on the contracts]] that were [[All_my_magic_friends#Ashborn_Trosk_and_the_Mysterious_Prison|arranged]] with the aid of the [[Lictors]], inviting the [[inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] of the [[Callidus|City of Chains]] to support them; silver and gold skinned creatures with curving horns and an orc-like cast to their features accompany the Hammers. They effortlessly locate valuable goods and suggest the most effective way for the Imperial Orcs to claim them, [[Army_qualities#Foraging|encouraging them to seize]] whenever opportunity presents itself. As they are quick to point out, have the Corazón not stolen from the Empire for centuries? Is it not past time that the balance were restored?

There are plenty of opportunities for plunder - Ribeira is a [[Prosperity|wealthy region]] for all that it is sparsely settled. The olive groves and the fig-trees are well tended, and there is a scattering of farms and orchards dedicated to other agricultural endeavours. Some of the loot recovered by the Hammers has clearly been taken from Segura or Kahraman, the rest include fine oils and wines, salted meats and jams, beautifully woven tapestries and carpets, delicate mithril and ilium jewellery, decorated weapons and shields, and any number of cunningly sculpted icons plated with precious metal or set with gems mined from the great mountains that run like a seam down the centre of Reinos.

While the land is rich, there is no real sign of any thralls such as the [[Bloodcloaks]] wish to free. There are labourers and workers aplenty, but they seem little different to the folk who work the Empire's farms. For the most part, they do not hang around when the Imperial armies advance, choosing to flee ahead of them, seeking sanctuary in the larger settlements to the west. They take their essential possessions with them, their beasts, and whatever valuables they can carry where they can. They leave the fighting to the soldiers for the most part, but there are reports of farmsteads and orchards defended by barely trained militia who fight tooth-and-nail to try and keep the Empire from taking their land from them.

Signs of the Lasambrians' faith are everywhere. Every farm maintains a shrine to the virtuous ancestors. Sometimes little more than a barn set aside, sometimes a stone building built just for that purpose. These shrines are new, most are barely more than a few years old, but they are clearly well-tended. No matter how rude or well-built the shrine the contents tend to be the same. A shelf or alcoves, a simple brazier, and icons depicting the virtues and the orcs that exemplify them. Usually there are seven icons, but not always - there may be three, or five, or a dozen, and nobody knows enough about the Lasambrian Jotun to identify them all (although some of the Summer Storm note that the [[Elite_Jotun_troops|faðir]] of the Jotun are sometimes on display here). Who is the figure of the grinning orc with the bowl of figs? Why is this lady with a pick-axe and crystal eyes worthy of veneration? Who are these three child-orcs who huddle together or stand one upon the other with solemn faces?

In every shrine there is one constant - an image of ''Hessar Escuta'', the leader of the old Lasambrians who, it is said, slew the [[First Empress]] before being killed in turn. There is no consistency as to which virtue he stands for - often but not always [[Courage]] or [[Pride]]. No matter how rich the other icons might be, he is always a squat figure of red pottery, with a greatsword who sits in the centre of the shrine opposite the door glowering at all who enter.

Some Imperial soldiers are incensed by these shrines, calling them blasphemous or idolatrous. For the most part, however, they are taken in stride. The armies here are Marchers, Winterfolk, and Imperial Orcs and they are no strangers to strange philosophy. And the larger shrines often contain rich pickings for the Autumn Hammers.
==The Time Has Come==
As the Empire pushes west, light woodlands give way to fertile lowlands and the first large villages are encountered - along with the first serious resistance. The villages are a peculiar mishmash of older wooden structures slowly being replaced by newer stone buildings, often surrounding truly ancient stone structures that harken back to ancient days before the Freeborn came ashore at Atalaya. The sea-change in the folk of Lasambria that accompanied the one-two punch of conquest by the Jotun and the embrace of the virtues is manifest in the architecture. From a folk who felt they had no hope save to rob and steal, the Lasambrians have become a people with ambitions to reclaim the lands of the Brass Coast and build a kingdom for themselves.

It's clear there are no armies here - neither Jotun nor Lasambrian Jotun. Indeed, the Hierro and the Escuta appear to be fighting far to the north. The territory is not undefended however; the fortresses of Getshal in the north and Yegarra's Proof in the south use the time gained by the border watches to move their garrisons into position, mobilising the militias and warriors of the towns and villages east of the mountains. This is the first time Imperial troops have faced the yegarra of southern Reinos - humans with a deep spirituality and many godhi among their number. Their commitment to fighting alongside the orcs of the Lasambrian Hills is difficult to fathom. Who are they? Where have they come from? How do they fit beside the orcs who raid so freely into the Brass Coast?

They fight particularly alongside the warriors of the Hierro sept, who are strongest in southern Reinos; along with western Kalino these are lands that belonged to them since before there was an Empire if their stories are to be believed. The troops from the north are uniformly orc, and many of them are members of the Corazón sept - they are less disciplined, more prone to taking risks. more enamoured of the concepts of glorious battle than their southern fellows, closer to the Jotun in temperament. Both groups work together seamlessly to try and turn the Empire and for a time it looks as if they might succeed.

In the end, though, they are unable to stem the tide of the invaders. The Winterfolk and Marchers and Imperial Orcs take the villages of Ribeira one by one, regroup their forces, and decide what to do next. There are three choices - stop and consolidate their hold over the farms and orchards; press west into Pedreira; push south through Bastasor toward Grismont Township. Weighing the odds, the commanders turn south. Now is not the time to try and besiege the fortification of Getshal - and the herald of the Autumn realm are quick to inform their orc comrades that there is surely more opportunity for plunder in the south. So the armies move towards the Arena of Virtue, the little city of Grismont Township, and the high fount of the Scorrero, the Crown of Bastasor.

Fighting now in earnest, there is much more evidence of southern Jotun here. Champions and would-be champions join with the garrisons to resist the Imperial advance. There are many more people prepared to take up arms than there were in the farmlands - something the Jotun themselves might find inexplicable but the Lasambrians take for granted. Anyone who cannot fight flees south or north toward the fortifications, the elderly, the youngest, and the infirm making their slow way to sanctuary ahead of the invading Imperial force. The experience of fighting the Lasambrians at home, in lands that are at least notionally theirs, is different to that of fighting their armies when they are engaged in conquest. A long history of banditry and brigandage serves them well here, scaled up to take into account their greater numbers. They are no more interested than the Empire in suffering extensive casualties, preferring to test and reformulate their strategies, to fight when they can and to retreat when it is wise to do so. By contrast, the "true" Jotun who fight with them do so in more traditional ways, confronting the Imperial armies head on, more interested in a challenge than in a wider strategy.

There is one matter on which both Jotun, and Lasambrian, and especially human yegarra of the south are united. They show utter contempt for the Fist of the Mountains, for the Winterfolk that fight alongside the shambling dead. Wherever possible, they prioritise the shambling corpses - either not knowing or not caring that the spirits bound to the army will simply find new cadavers to exploit. The fact this leads to slain defenders of Reinos rising to join the Wintermark army does little to reduce their fury. The Jotun consider it a defilement; the Lasambrians who get a chance to do so condemn it as a profound offence against the virtue of Pride. Yet their anger is ultimately impotent; the ghouls that fight alongside the Fist rip apart anyone who falls into their claws and they feast well as Empire and barbarian clash across Bastasor.
==Before The Walls==
Despite all their efforts the Lasambrian militia and the garrisons cannot stop the Empire's steady conquest. Town and village fall to the invaders, and the armies press forward. As the Spring Equinox comes closer, the Empire has brought most of the region under its control at least in theory. The Lasambrians are sullen and uncooperative, they flee when they have the chance and have no interest in being "liberated" by the Bloodcloaks. As often as not they proudly, courageously condemn the Imperial soldiers who have come into their land, damning them for seeking to steal the last piece of the Lasambrian homelands just as they stole Segura, and Kahraman, and Feroz, and Madruga and all those other places.

The defenders fall back, toward three locations across Bastasor. The Arena of Virtue, despite its relative vulnerability on the borders of Ribeira, remains in Lasambrian hands despite a protracted battle before its walls between zealous defenders and Imperial soldiers who do not quite know what to make of soldiers who call on the same virtues they do to give them the strength to fight. Their defence is reinforced by a significant number of Corazón and Jotun from northern Reikos.

Grismont Township is also unconquered - the walls are not really a match for the armies arrayed against it, but time has run out as the slow march across Reinos has dragged on. There is a significant garrison here, reinforced by Jotun champions who have come across the mountains from the western regions of Reinos. They won't surrender the "city" easily, and they have many supplies within its walls... for all the good it will do them if serious reinforcements do not arrive soon.

The rest of Bastasor though is in Imperial hands, save only the Crown of Bastasor - it is clear there is no easy way for armies to approach the lake high up in the mountains. But access to the waters is now in the control of the Empire, specifically the Summer Storm who have taken the foothills and the narrow winding paths that lead up to the Crown.

Spring flowers bloom in the foothills and across the plains, hardy orange and yellow blooms that can endure the warmth and the sometimes harsh conditions here. The Empire has made gains, but the Lasambrians have fought them every step of the way and there is no sign they plan to stop fighting them any time soon.

==Game Information==
{{CaptionedImage|file=ReinosRegions.png|align=right|caption=Reinos was mapped out by Imperials after the Summer Solstice 386YE|width=300}}
===Reinos===
* '''Imperial Forces have conquered the region of Ribeira and are four-fifths of the way toward controlling Bastasor'''
Reinos remains in Jotun hands, but the Empire has conquered the easternmost region of Ribeira and is well on its way towards taking Bastasor. The only parts of that latter region that are still in Lasambrian hands are the township of Grismont, and the Arena of Virtue. If nothing changes, it's likely the Empire will conquer these last two locations following the Spring Equinox, and most likely take Chaveiro as well. After that, they will need to face one of the two fortifications that guard the passes to western Reinos, which will be a more challenging proposition. Assuming nothing changes, of course.

Without guidance from the generals, the commanders on the ground chose to avoid the fortification at Pedreira and push south (partly because to do otherwise would have significantly reduced the amount of land they would claim, and exposed them to significant losses). The only significant defence this season has been the garrison of the two forts - Getshal and Yegarra's Proof. Between this and the Empire's tactics, it means that none of the invading armies have taken any significant casualties.

===Participation - Armies===
* '''Some of the Fist of the Mountains soldiers have been acting a little more violent than usual for unknown reasons'''
The fact the Fist of the Mountain were fighting alongside flesh-eating, animated cadavers taken from the graves of Tassato is obvious to everyone in the territory, especially anyone whose military unit supported an army here. The soldiers fighting under the banner of the Fist have been slightly more prone to bloodthirst than usual, but that has not (yet) led to any particularly atrocious behaviour. No military units supported the Fist of the Mountain so any peculiar influences are restricted to the Reinos campaign rather than being obvious at Anvil.

===Participation - Tassato===
* '''Quickening Cold Meat cast in Tassato caused many bodies of respected or wealthy former citizens to rise as flesh-hungry ghouls and join the Fist of the Mountains'''
Anyone who was in Tassato following the Winter Solstice will either have witnessed the dead rise, or seen the aftermath thereof. The [[Quickening Cold Meat]] enchantment causes winter spirits to seek out dead bodies and animate them as ghoulish warriors. In the League, all save the wealthiest are cremated rather than being buried, which means that many of those risen unliving horrors are the remains of princes, guildmasters, bishops, and other rich citizens whose tombs were maintained by their families or guilds. There were also a number of murder victims among them, risen from shallow graves or out of the waters where their bodies had been weighed down and dumped. Finally, around [[Tassato#Cascatas|Cascatas]] some of the dead Jotun orcs and yegarra who attacked the Sapphire Stair have likewise been animated.

No living Tassatan citizens were harmed as a result of this, but many have been horrified or upset by the desecration of tombs and gravesites. Characters from Tassato are encouraged to create stories about how the "night of the risen dead" has impacted them.

==Conjunctions==
===Storm of Battle (Reinos)===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="excerpt of orders from Irontide Skorr, General of the Summer Storm">...the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage... </quote></div>
* '''The Jotun and Lasambrians of Ribeira are gathering to join ''Carmo Stoneblade'''''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''General of the Summer Storm'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for killing Carmo Stoneblade'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Ribeira has fallen to the Empire, conquered by soldiers of the Imperial Orcs, the Marches and Wintermark. Now, ''Carmo Stoneblade'' has begun to call together the fyrd – the oathsworn warriors of the land who will follow them and fight alongside them to reclaim their home. If ''Carmo Stoneblade'' can be killed before the fyrd gathers, then it will scatter and be unable to gather as a fyrd until the start of the Spring Equinox 388YE. They will instead remain in the region, focused on protecting their own rather than gathering as a cohesive force behind the accomplished Lasambrian.

It is the responsibility of the [[Summer Storm|General of the Summer Storm]], '''Irontide Skorr''', to kill Carmo Stoneblade and scupper the calling of the fyrd. If Irontide Skorr is successful, then ''Brokenshield Becheb'', a [[Imperial_Orcs_economic_interests#Bonesetters|bonesetter]] who has accompanied the army into Reinos, will provide them with a [[Triumphant Blade]] in time for the next summit.
{{Fyrd}}

===The Extra Bit (Reinos)===
* '''A warband of Jotun and Lasambrians are holding a Faraden trader for ransom'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Champion of Prosperity'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for recovering the trader'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
The heavy tolls levied on the Faraden for traversing Reinos are well known; it is one of the primary reasons the Court of the Five Winds consistently requests that the Empire conquer the territory. ''Mistress Singua Karadragha'' has reported that one of their traders in fine silks and spiced coffee was unexpectedly waylaid by the Lasambrians on the border. ''Bulangiin Karadragha's'' goods were confiscated due to an error, leaving them unable to pay the toll. The Lasambrians are now holding them as they wait for "adequate compensation" from the family.

''Mistress Singua Karadragha'' has asked the [[Champion of Prosperity]], '''Tom Appleseed''', to rescue Bulangiin and escort them back to Anvil using the [[Cuckoo's Egg]]. If successful, the Karadragha family will provide compensation to any Imperial who takes the chance to [[Venture#Raid_the_Jotun|raid the Jotun]] over the next season – providing a crown in addition to the military unit's normal production. Given that this involves the [[Ambassador to Faraden|Ambassador to Faraden's]] counterpart there is some hope that they will offer what aid they can to the Champion of Prosperity.

==Battle Opportunity : Tame Your Fears==
Prognosticators have identified a major conjunction of the Sentinel Gate that will allow Imperial heroes to intercede in Reinos. The conjunction leads to Bastasor, to the vicinity of Grismont Township, and it is believed may allow the Empire to help break the siege there.
==Further Reading==
* [[Reinos]]

Speak to me

2025-06-04T16:39:23Z

RichardRaynor: /* Father of Bats */ added day

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>Jorgen pulled his cloak more tightly around him as the rain pounded and the thunder growled, and thanked the paragons for its waterproof coating. His companion raised a lightstone lantern - few fully mundane lamps could survive weather like this - casting a wedge of dim light between the stones of the Imperial regio. The Wintermark civil servant suppressed a shudder.

The creature that stood in the midst of the monolith-bounded circle was clearly inhuman. It towered over the two civil servants before it, even hunched over. It had impossibly long limbs, impossibly thin and bone-like, and the tattered black dress that clung to its frame did little to reduce the horror it radiated. If not for the mobility of its features, set in a milk-white face as round as the full moon, it would have been easy to mistake it for a disturbing mannikin or piece of art abandoned in the regio. As it was, there was no doubt as to the thing's animation - she moved like an insect shifting between absolute stability and insect-like flurry of action without warning. Jorgen did his best to suppress the insistent shouting from his legs, both of whom seemed keen on the idea of running away and not looking back.

He cleared his throat. And then cleared it again. "And is that the full message from your mistress, Madame Baroness?"

The thing moved, jerking forward, and suddenly its great dinner-plate face was barely six inches from Jorgen's. It did not blink, its eyes fixed on those of the civil servant. Its thin lips split into a broad smile, revealing dozens of tiny little teeth like those of a child.

"Yes," it said, voice like cracking ice. "except perhaps to remind you that obviously the Pale Empress expects total honesty and sincerity in this matter, just as the Archmage would expect of Her."

Jorgen swallowed, and nodded his head jerkily.

The Baroness, having delivered her message, bowed her great luminous head and turned to leave. The winds whipped the sodden cloth of her ragged garb around her, and she paused for a moment. Her head, impossibly, began to move, swivelling independently of her spindly neck and body to face the Wintermarker. Its face was locked in a grotesque grimace and a strange greenish light had ignited behind its pale eyes.

"Oh." she said, as if just remembering some minor matter of trivial concern. "It is just possible that the Archmage has begun hearing things in his sleep. Bells at sea, perhaps, Haunting his dreams. Given the fall of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros and its implications, you understand. He is not to worry, or be afraid, or indeed pay it any mind. It will only... encourage them... you see?"

With his final cryptic remark, she took her leave fading away into the darkness without moving, grinning visage still facing the civil servants, her stick-think body facing the other way. The last things to fade were here eyes, which flared once like dreadful lamps just before she disappeared completely.

"Well that was bloody awful," said Jorgen's companion flatly after a few moments.

Jorgen didn't reply, just wrapped himself in his cloak and slipped his damp notebook into the satchel he wore beneath. As they turned back toward the hub, and the hot tea awaiting them, Jorgen once again gave silent thanks for the fact that he was not the Winter Archmage, and so did not need to deal with any of... this.

But it was some time before he slept a whole night in which his dreams not troubled by the distant sound of tolling bells and cracking ice.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 200px; clear: right;">[[file:CathCane001b.webp|align=left|width=200]]</div>
==Overview==
* '''Six eternals have responded to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''4 of them have agreed to some sort of meeting at the Spring Equinox, while 2 have taken other steps'''
Every season, each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] is empowered to send a single [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their realm. The eternals are bound to respond, although not always in a way the archmage may wish. Sometimes they will arrange personal meetings; often they will send their own emissaries to treat with the Empire in the form of the archmage; occasionally they take direct action in response to the requests contained in the missive; rarely they decline formally although even then they will tend to communicate the reasons for their unhappiness.

Following the Winter Solstice, as the new year dawns, six eternals have responded to invitations to [[Archmage#Parley|parley]] via their emissaries.
==Pale Empress==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:Skathe001.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''Skathe of the Thrice-cursed Court offers parley in a suitable chamber at 21.55 on Saturday'''
* '''Along with the Archmage, the Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch and the Custodian of the Bleak Tower are invited to attend the parley'''
* '''The Archmage of Winter is Ematius of the Great Library of Ankarien'''
It is a dark and stormy night when a towering figure emerges from the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]]. Dressed in a striking tattered black dress and nearly nine feet tall, she introduces herself as the ''Baroness of All Pains'', a member of the cursed court of the ''[[Skathe|Hag Queen]]''. She speaks in a voice that cracks like ice to relay the word of the Witch of the Thrice-Cursed Court to the civil servants at the Hub.

Apparently ''Her Imperial Majesty of Cares'' would be ''delighted'' to welcome the [[Archmage of Winter]] to formal parley at the Spring Equinox, at five to ten on Saturday night in a chamber she is already preparing for just this very purpose. The ''Lady of Laments'' is grateful for the Archmage's admission that events that transpired in [[the League]], (in [[In_the_garden_of_defiance|enlightened Holberg]] and [[The DOOM that came to Sarvos|beautiful Sarvos]]), were down to the actions of Zephaniah's Lament and not she, the ''Giver of Gifts''. The Baroness explains that her mistress would be happy to clear up any lingering doubts or questions about that sorry affair, which was of course initiated by members of that unlamented [[Highguard|Highborn]] chapter when they reached out to the ''Painted Mirror'' for help - help that was freely offered and accepted at a known price. She would be happy to continue the general conversation that was begun in the halls of the ''Charred Prince'' so recently, as well, though she intends to be discreet on the matter.

Having delivered this preamble, the Baroness of All Pains begins to cackle at the thought of what follows, and she begins once more to relay her queen's words. The ''Hexenkönigin'' would be happy to have the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] and the [[Custodian of the Bleak Tower]] join the Archmage as his right and left hand, as the [[Urizen|masters of the High Peaks]] have always been her most favourite and brilliant companions in the long and constant years she has been a friend to the Empire. She is excited to hear of the well of bitterness towards the [[Druj]] that the Archmage claims swells within the heart of the [[Varushka|heirs of Alderei the Fair]] and the [[navarr|scions of Terunael]].

She has, at great effort, prepared a smattering of generous gifts to assist in bringing weal to the many inhabitants of the [[Sarangrave]]. This will, however, depend on whether the Archmage and his companions can weave a suitably delightful and sincere picture of the Empire's blackened heart and their committed, spiteful, hateful intent to strike back at the wicked Druj. If it seems their heart is not in it in the moment, then she is sure someone else can make use of her gifts, so the Archmage needn't worry on her account. The tall figure sneers as she remarks that, of course, the ''Pale Empress'' expects total honesty and sincerity in this matter, just as the Archmage would expect of her, and then departs.
==Invisible Hand==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''Emissaries of the City of Gold and Lead have responded to the Autumn archmage by interceding directly'''
* '''They present proposals in the [[Louder than words]] wind of fortune'''
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Edmundo of Damakan's forge'''
The trade envoy who emerges from the Imperial regio shortly after the Winter Solstice is swathed in silken veils. This is not the first time they (or someone very like them) has visited [[Anvil]] on behalf of the [[Ephisis|City of Gold and Lead]]. In answer to the plenipotentiary of the Autumn Archmage, the City chooses to take direct action. Specifically, a number of assessors, brokers, and long-term planners have been dispatched from the City, not only to the Empire but also into [[Otkodov]]. The City has good relations with the [[Thule]] in general, and has agreed to draw on their relationship to see what can be done about the request of the redoubtable Edmundo. The herald offers a personal plaudit to '''Vossk of Zenith Ascendant''', thanking them for their commendably concise and informative missive that leaves little doubt as to what the Archmage desires.

Obviously, the City of Gold and Lead cannot deliver its findings immediately - they will need time to talk to mortals in both the north and the south - but they offer assurances that the agents of the ''Invisible Hand'' will return shortly before the Spring Equinox to share their findings with their Imperial customers. The herald notes that there will be no additional charge for this service at this time; the City is well pleased with the Empire's commitment to trade and commerce at all levels from the remarkable response to the markets taking greater control of the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual all the way down to the constant flow of money and goods that swirls through Anvil during a summit.

In due course, detailed proposals are presented to the hub, as well as to a number of universities and the offices of respected builders and traders, a few weeks before the Spring Equinox. The details of their efforts are included in the '''[[Louder than words]]''' wind of fortune.

==Mistress of Ice and Darkness==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:CathCane002.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''Cathan Canae will send her favoured lieutenant Volstann the Eater of Boars to take counsel with the Archmage'''
* '''The boisterous messenger is expected to meet the Archmage in their hall at 20.00 on Friday'''
* '''The Archmage can bring up to four additional people - Cathan Canae has suggested one on these be the Legion Engineer'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
Midway between Winter and Spring, with a thick layer of frost on the ground in the Imperial Regio, a massive dog-like creature emerges without fanfare and plods down to the civil service hub. It is a stout hound, similar to a St Bernard but built on a much larger scale. Five feet at the shoulder, with rolls of thick skin that shift as it stomps about its business, the only other sign that it is not a mundane beast is that it wears a suit of boiled leather or hide barding tooled with the runes of [[Verys|strength]] and [[Tykonus|victory]]. It has fierce fangs, but those who encounter it describe it as having "gentle eyes" - whatever that means. When it reaches the Hub, it plonks down with a tired sigh in the middle of the entrance and refuses to budge. When one of the civil servants musters the courage to approach, they find that hung around its neck is a carved ivory scroll tube. The beast stares impassively as numb fingers work the catch to retrieve the scroll and then, without a backward glance, the massive creature heads back to the Imperial regio and returns whence it came.

The message scroll bears greetings from the court of the [[Cathan Canae|Mistress of Blizzards]] in response to the missive from '''Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''. The Queen on the Throne of Ice requests parley, and intends to send her trusted servant ''Volstann Eater of Boars'' to speak on her behalf. The meeting cannot take place in Kalpaheim, but rather will take place in the Hall of Heroes, a part of Volstann's personal hall that sits between the [[Realm#Summer|Summer realm]] and the mortal world. The primary topic of conversation will be the terms regarding Imperial access to the [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae|frozen citadels]]. The [[Frozen_Citadel_of_Cathan_Canae#Assurance|assurance]] of the ritual is not up for discussion, but there is an opportunity here for the Archmage to make their case with regard to the Empire's cowardly ceding of its territory to satisfy their enemies.

On the matter of Eoradal, Cathan Canae has an interest in the Imperial Orcs' new territory and how they intend to hold it. As such she proposes that the Archmage bring along the [[Legion Engineer]] to make their own case to Volstann as to how the ''Immovable One'' might offer her aid. why she should be interested, what they will offer in return, and why they seek her aid instead of that of the [[Adamant|Dragon Beneath the Mountain]].

While the defenders of Redoubt are clearly heroes, the ''Great Bear'' wishes to know why the Archmage considers the three she has mentioned worthy of especial note ahead of all the other protectors of the Empire who fight and shed blood to keep their enemies at bay. Why these three, why this conflict? Furthermore, there will be no talk of Sydanjaa. It is not a matter than the ''Crown of Black Ice'' has any interest in, and neither does her retainer. Indeed, the matters to be discussed - citadels, the Empire's dominion, and the building in Eoradal - are clear and significant digression is unwelcome.

The message ends by saying that the Archmage is invited to bring no more than four other individuals with her to speak with Volstann - which can include the Legion Engineer if they wish The meeting will take place at eight o'clock on Friday evening, and Vosltann's hall will be reached via the Hall of Worlds - which may mean the Archmage will need to secure means for those who are not magicians to accompany them.

==Father of Bats==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:Sadogua001d.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''The Night eternal Sadogua agrees to a parley but intends to send some of his heralds to meet with the magicians of the Empire on his behalf'''
* '''They are expected to arrive in the Hall of Worlds at around 21.30 on Saturday'''
* '''At the same time Sadogua wishes to speak with some members of the Unfettered Mind in a more private setting about the Lyceum'''
* '''The meeting with the Unfettered Mind will take place at the same time as the more celebratory meeting in the Hall of Worlds'''
* '''The current archmage of Night is Eliina "Realm's Visionary" Lailasdottir'''
Shortly before the Spring Equinox, a pompous little figure in a remarkable red and black coat that drags along the ground behind them, appears at the hub and delivers a message from their lord and master, the redoubtable ''[[Sadogua|Brother of Wizards]]''. ''Globbersnotch'' thanks the Archmage of Night for proposing an inspirational banquet, and as such requests what he refers to as "informal parley" - everyone agrees not to hit each other but the daft rule about who can speak when is ignored. In return he will send some of his most favoured children, agents, emissaries, apprentices, and friends to visit with Imperial magicians, and enjoy the music, poetry, stories, art, and dance on his behalf. Some of those [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] will be in a position to speak on his behalf on various topics, such as the ''Cup of Dreams'', and potentially even provide a new burst of power to the trinkets he has given to Imperial magicians in the past. He is particularly hopeful that a certain ''imp of magic'' might be in attendance, with tales of the sorceries the little frog has helped support since last he spoke to it.

He also invites the [[Arcane Architect]] to seek counsel with some of his heralds, so that the ''Father of Bats'' might consider if there are other ways he could help them discharge their duties. Also any magicians of [[the Marches]] might seek his apprentices and discuss matters of magic - the ''Toad King'' is interested in where their magical studies will take them next. He wishes to remind them that this is the last season they will have easy access to the [[Upwold#Well_of_Shadows|Well of Shadows]] - when the Summer Solstice dawns he will be seeking a new scholar in the well to enjoy its gifts. Hopefully the magicians of Wintermark responsible for the recent [[Stars_and_sigils#Feast_For_Kallavesa|splendid enchantment]] will also be there - some of his heralds are keen to learn more about this excellent piece of magic. Finally, the magicians of Navarr might discuss the magical places they consider to be under threat in Therunin and what they think ''Wyrmwynd'' can do about it. It would also be ideal if whoever was... ah... ''honouring'' a certain wyrm-like creature in the Hall of Worlds during the last summit found a suitable herald to speak to about it. Quietly given how much trouble it might get people into.

And of course anyone else who would normally attend these things - he hopes that even if they don't speak to one of his emissaries the magicians of Anvil take this opportunity offered by the Archmage of Night to relax a little during trying times.

The heralds of Sadogua intend to arrive in the hall of worlds around half-past-nine on Saturday evening, and hope that will not cause too many difficulties for the Archmage of Night following so closely on the heels of Conclave.

At the same time his chosen servants are celebrating with Imperial magicians, the ''Brother of Wizards'' wishes to meet with some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] to discuss the matter of the [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#The_Lyceum|Lyceum]]. '''Palaphon Ankarien''' is of course invited to attend this meeting, but he requests that the [[Archmage of Night]] remain to ensure nothing goes wrong with his heralds. He hopes to meet at most half a dozen Unfettered Mind magicians to hear their suggestions as to how to handle the wards he has placed around the island of the Lyceum - how to get Imperial magicians in and out without risking enemies gaining access - given that after he put [[Patterns_of_fairytales#The Hidden Lyceum|his guardian beasts]] into the mists he pretty much ran out of ideas. The hypnotic ''Wyrm of Sleggoth'' and the deadly ''Nightwing'' may in fact have made matters slightly worse as it turns out they are not brilliant at differentiating attacking ships from friendly ships. The ''Toad-King'' is adamant however that ''only'' members of the Unfettered Mind are invited to attend - he is still in ''a bit of a difficult mood'', confides the short herald.

That ''difficult mood'' probably goes some way to explaining two appendices to the message. First, [[Varushka|Varushkan]] members of the Unfettered Mind should probably be very cautious about attending the meeting to discuss the Lyceum, and be prepared for things to "''go tits up''" when the ''Brother of Wizards'' loses his temper. And secondly, Sadogua has apparently rather snippily suggested that the Archmage of Night make sure nobody kidnaps any of his beloved heralds and carries them off to start new lives as Varushkan lawn adornments, or whatever.

It seems the ''Globbersnoth'' is ''still'' very unhappy about the [[Ossium#Towers_of_Zulgan_Tash|Towers of Zulgan Tash]].

==Zie of the Morning==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:Ylenwe001.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''Ylenwe offers zir assistance in dealing with the matter of the white forest
* '''Zie has also offered aid in the matter of damming the Doubt in Spiral
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka'''
On a day of gentle Spring showers, a quiet herald with mottled silver and indigo scales arrives at the Hub. they carry a lyre of beautiful blue wood, and quietly ask for a stool to sit on. While they pluck harmonious notes from the strings of their instrument they deliver a message from ''[[Ylenwe|the Dove]]'', the ''Mistress of Music''. Zie has heard the words of the [[Archmage of Day]] but must decline formal parley at this time. That is not to say zie cannot offer aid in the matters requested - far from it - only that zie does so from arm's reach. The herald-musician plays quietly on their lyre as they provide further details, allowing the civil servants plenty of time to make notes.

The goal of bringing fresh water to [[Mareave]] is laudable, although Ylenwe hopes that the Empire has considered that they are disrupting the natural order in pursuit of a transformation that might, ultimately, prove costly to maintain. Bringing water into an environment where it does not naturally flow can be challenging indeed, and may of course bring unexpected consequences. The recent inundation of [[the Brass Coast]] is perhaps a case in point. Yet zie judges that the proposals put forward are likely gentler and more harmonious than those which unleashed the unconstrained fury of the Scorrero. The damning of the Doubt is a fascinating project; even as zir messenger comes to Anvil zie has dispatched [[Inhabitants of the realms#heralds|heralds]] to [[Spiral#Apstrus|Solen's Doubt]] to see what could be done about the dangers there. This matter is addressed in more detail in the [[TBC]] wind of fortune.

There is nothing Ylenwe has to say about the churning chaos of Sydanjaa - zie does not believe zie has anything to add about that mournful place and the sad traditions associated with it. The other matter that is worthy of discussion. however, is that of the warped white wood in [[Skarsind]], and zie believes that there are real possibilities for zir help. As the Archmage has provided music, so ''Zie of the Morning'' will provide notes of zir own.
====Song of the White Wood====
* '''Ylenwe presents an opportunity to use the Music of the Spheres to cleanse the white wood of Skarsind'''
* '''Completing the cleansing requires a complex ritual using magical notes, and a sapling taken from the tainted woods'''
The situation at the white wood in Skarsind is quite different to Bulgakov, and as such requires its own approach. Whereas in Bulgakov the area could simply be cleansed of Cold Sun's influence, the wood is said to be in "dissonance" with its surroundings - though what this claim actually means, neither Ylenwe nor any herald has explained. This dissonance, apparently, is where the danger lies. Bringing the wood into harmony with itself and the wider [[Skarsind#Southpines|Southpines]] would not return it to its original form, but would render the dangerous [[Day magic]] remaining in the area inert. It’s not known what the precise effects of the transformed but harmonised wood would be, but its harmonization can be achieved through the [[Music of the spheres]].
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box>'''Out of Character info:'''<br>Some players who have ranks of Day Lore and whose resource is a [[mana site]], will find a chime ribbon in their pack at the start of E2. A chime represents a mana crystal which has been infused with particular day magic. It can be phys repped in the same way as you normally phys rep your mana crystals.<br>To extract the melody from a chime, cast [[Distillation of Diverse Parts]] on it at the regio. Please process the ritual with a referee before doing the roleplay. The ritual will destroy the chime.<br>To use a chime before performing a melody ritual as part of aligning the white tree to a particular mode of [[Music of the spheres]], simply hand the ribbon to the referee overseeing the white wood ritual before beginning to perform.</box></div>
To harmonise the white wood, Ylenwe asks that a single tree from the edge of the forest be brought to the Imperial regio in Anvil. Musicians of the Empire could then wash this tree in melodies of powerful resonance which, once the tree is planted back at the edge of the wood, will sing from tree to tree and transform the resonances of the area into perfect harmony.

Since receiving the archmage’s correspondence, Ylenwe has considered the state of discordance currently affecting the Southpines. During this season of contemplation, zie claims to have spent a moment singing to the crystalline mana structures being grown at the mana sites of certain Day mages throughout the Empire. Zir songs have embedded in a small number of crystals like a seed, and grown into melodies of balance and consonance. Zie calls these transformed crystals ‘chimes’.

Even Ylenwe zirself does not know what form the chimes’ melodies have taken, but advises that their musical form reflects the Empire’s understanding of music of the spheres. As such, there are 7 different melodies hidden inside the crystals, one for each mode used within music of the spheres, each able to harmonise the tree to their associated realm.

Extracting the melodies from the chimes is a delicate procedure, but it can be achieved through casting Distillation of Diverse Parts with Ylenwe’s oversight. Until 23:00 on the Saturday of the spring equinox, casting the ritual on a chime whilst using the Imperial regio will result in the extraction of the melody.

On the Saturday of the spring equinox, Ylenwe will align the Imperial regio to zirself from 23:00-23:30TIMING TBC, making it possible to harmonise a tree from the white wood within this time period. For this to succeed, the tree must be placed within the Imperial regio. Up to six musicians must then step inside the regio, crush a chime of the relevant mode and spend two minutes performing the associated melody. This process should be repeated in sequence through each mode of the music of the spheres, from Ionian to Locrian.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box>'''Accessibility info:'''<br>When casting Distillation of Diverse Parts on a chime, a sheet music transcription of the melody will be provided. It will also be possible to opt out of the transcription for any players who would prefer to use memorisation or transcribe it themselves.
For further accessibility information, please email plot@profounddecisions.co.uk before the event or find a ref during the event.</box></div>
For example, the sequence of rituals should begin with up to six musicians entering the regio, crushing an Ionian chime and spending two minutes performing music in the Ionian mode and incorporating the Ionian melody previously extracted from a chime.

Zie does warn that this process will not only transform the tree, but that any musician participating in the rituals will find their very self resonating in harmony with the mode they perform - with unknown, and possibly unpleasant consequences. If they were to then attempt to step inside the regio for a further ritual, they would produce a discordance which would disrupt the entire process. Each ritual will need a unique group of musicians to perform its melody.

==Brother Harvest==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:Ossegrahn001a.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''Ossegrahn has agreed to parley with the Archmage of Spring during the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The meeting will take place in a chamber at 15.00 on Saturday'''
* '''The Archmage can bring up to five additional people and Ossegrahn has suggested some whose presence might be useful'''
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Ibiss Briarheart'''
It is raining when the messenger of [[Ossegrahn|Lord Rain]] arrives at [[Anvil]]. They are a lithe, green skinned figure with long dark-blue hair wearing little more than a homespun tunic of blue wool that quickly becomes sodden. They appear supremely unconcerned by this, any more than they are worried about the mud churned up by the early spring downpour and the passage of Anvil's travellers. In a voice like water splashing over rocks they ask for directions to "the servants of the people" and eventually end up at the Hub where they reportedly drip over some quite important paperwork while delivering their message.

''Lord Rain'' welcomes the request for parley from '''Ibiss Briarheart''', the [[Archmage of Spring]]. He requests parley, and will speak directly to the archmage and a small number of others who wish to accompany him - no more than five additional people please. A chamber is being made ready, and will open from the Hall of Worlds at three in the afternoon on Saturday. ''Tarnfather'' is aware that this clashes with the [[Arcane Colloquium]] and will entirely understand if the Archmage and their party are slightly late.

The matter of bringing fresh water to Mareave is something ''Greenfount'' is eager to discuss, and has been following developments in the arid eastern territory with interest. He asks the Archmage ensure they bring several [[Imperial Orcs]] along with them to speak of what they think they need and how they think Ossegrahn can help. To make arid land like Mareave bloom and burst with life would be a grand project, one that he thinks might help the Empire better understand the [[Spring_magic#Healing_and_Vitality|renewal and life-affirming power]] of [[Spring magic]]. There are some founts of water in north-eastern Mareave in particular he may be able to help with, perhaps supplementing the progress the Imperial Orcs have made already with some aid of his own, if there are any suggestions as to how he might best offer his aid. With that in mind he suggests the Archmage may also wish to bring a representative of Spiral along with him, someone who can speak about the plans to release the waters of Solen's Doubt and to help channel them into Icarion. He is also eager to discuss the chances of peaceful resolution between the Brine Turtles and the Imperial Orcs - if he can help in any way he stands ready to do so.

Other matters are less appealing ''Llomon'' is prepared to talk about are this matter of a [[fane]] in [[Redoubt]], and why the [[Urizen]] think that he would desire such a thing, but does not entirely understand why they would want other eternals involved. [[The Chalice]] is something that the eternal knows about only through discussion with mortal magicians, and understands there is nothing gentle about it, nothing of ''true'' healing. He is prepared to listen, nonetheless, but the herald does not hide how sceptical the ''Rainkeeper'' is about it. Likewise mention of needing help to grow wholesome food on [[mana site|mana sites]] perplexes Ossegrahn. [[Fountain's Bounty]] is already known by the Urizen, and does just that. ''Brother Harvest'' is not opposed to helping if the problem can be properly explained to him because in the ideal world nobody should go hungry or thirsty. Perhaps it is a matter the Archmage can explain when they meet?

One matter that is ''not'' raised is that of the [[Declaration]] of [[Concord]] raised [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Ossegrahn_and_the_Brass_Coast|during the Winter Solstice]] by the [[Imperial Magus]], '''Izarra i Riqueza'''. Directed primarily to the people of [[the Brass Coast]], relating to [[Patterns_of_fairytales#Injuries of the Soul|decisions made]] during the [[Where_the_river_rises#Lamentable_Loss_of_Life|flooding of the Scorrero]] it does touch on boons offered by ''Healing Hand'' and apparent unhappiness that they were not used. As such it is notable that there is no talk of this in the plenipotentiary response - perhaps it is something the eternal plans to discuss in the parley?

There is however one other serious matter to discuss, but the herald carefully explains the details of their master's request so that it can be discussed before the parley. Time is short for Therunin, and the moment where the ''Leafbeard'' can help is fading fast.
====Regarding Peakedge Stead====
* '''Ossegrahn will continue to protect Peakedge Stead and the Houses of Healing, potentially permanently, against not only the Druj but any other threat'''
* '''In return he wishes the Imperial Conclave to permanently remove Rivers Run Red and Mountain Remembers Its Youth from Imperial lore'''
* '''This will require the Senate to reconsider the power of ''remorse'' discussed several times previously'''
* '''Without this sacrifice, Ossegrahn cannot commit to protecting the ancient hospital from the Druj in Therunin'''
As the archmage has no doubt [[To_hold_death%27s_hand_in_mine#Rainfall|already seen]], ''Coomarta of the Rains'' has taken direct action in [[Therunin]] against the [[Druj]] and protected both [[Therunin#Peakedge_Stead|Peakedge Stead]] - its healers, patients, and defenders - and his [[Hand_of_the_Healers#Houses_of_Healing|Houses of Healing]]. The protection cannot last, however, and maintaining it against the spite of the Druj will require a significant sacrifice from the eternal himself. If he is to do this, he must be certain that the Empire is moving in the correct direction to justify this commitment. If the Empire can satisfy his request, he will do whatever it takes to ensure that Peakedge Stead and the Houses remain protected as long as they are under threat - not only by the Druj but also by the [[vallorn]]. If the Empire is sincere in its desire to destroy the ''folly of Terunael'' then Peakedge Stead will be threatened by old Tharunind, even if the current threat is neutralised. Ossegrahn believes that the ancient hospital, coupled with his own houses of healing, will provide a powerful sanctuary for those who fight the vallorn in Therunin and perhaps even Sarangrave.

But before he is prepared to commit to this he wants the Empire to make a commitment of their own. He asks that the Imperial Conclave remove [[Rivers Run Red]] and [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]] from Imperial Lore. ''Bogfearthen'' knows this is not a power the Conclave has - but it is one that could be given to them by the [[Imperial Senate]]. The so-called power of [[Interdiction#Remorse|Remorse]], the ability to permanently remove a ritual from the body of Imperial Lore. It will be a challenge for the Senate to both provide this power and for the Conclave to use it, but ''Willowbraid'' believes that if they are truly committed they can achieve it.

In addition to continuing to protect Peakedge Stead and the Houses of Healing, when the current protection fades from [[Thornsinger#Thornsong_House|Thornsong House]], ''Beckburn'' will be happy to discuss enfolding it in his ring of protection also, although that will require a further expenditure of his power it will be much less than what is needed to establish the permanent ring of protection. Finally, if the Archmage wishes, Ossegrahn is prepared to discuss a way for Imperial magicians to gain access to his children that create these walls of impenetrable thorns and water, with an eye toward codifying it and adding it to Imperial Lore to protect other threatened places. Backed by Ossegrahn's power the protection offered would rival a [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|Wooden Fastness]], although it would be restricted to defending a single region rather than warding a whole territory. The Archmage says that the Empire is in more danger than it has been before, and so Ossegrahn can offer at least a little assistance if they choose to accept it.

If the Senate and the Conclave are not in agreement, then the protection around Peakedge Stead will fail within a day of the Spring Equinox and there will be nothing further Ossegrahn can do to preserve the hospital, its patients, or its brave defenders from the murderous impulses of the Druj. Even if they retreat immediately, they will do so after they have destroyed the ancient steading.

==Plenipotentiary in Public==
* '''The opportunity to allow archmages to make their plenipotentiary messages public remains available'''
Last season the [[Prefect of the Conclave|prefects of the Conclave]] presented a potential additional power to be used with plenipotentiary - the ability to make the wording of the missive public knowledge. The [[Imperial Conclave]] has not chosen to embrace this power, but given it is simply a procedural change the opportunity to do so remains available to the magicians of the Empire for the foreseeable future - unless something significantly changes. The change is discussed in detail in the '''[[Secret_meeting#Have_a_Little_Faith|Secret meeting]]''' wind of fortune.
==Timetable==
These meetings are taking place in a number of places; in chambers reached via the Hall of Worlds. The times, and the eternals involved, are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 20.00 || Cathan Canae || Summer || Meeting with Volstann, in a chamber
|-
| Saturday|| 15.00 || Ossegrahn || Spring || Formal parley, in a chamber
|-
| Saturday|| 21.30 || Sadogua || Night || Informal meeting in the hall of worlds, and a chamber
|-
| Saturday|| 21.55 || Skathe || Winter || Formal parley, in a chamber
|-
|}

386YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements

2025-05-10T09:10:17Z

RichardRaynor: /* Judgement 89 */ sp

[[Category: Synod]] [[Category:Synod Results]] [[Category: Synod Judgements]][[Category: 386YE Winter]]
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Judgements Winter 386.png|align=right|width=400|caption=The Synod raised two hundred and twelve judgements.}}</div>
==Overview==
During the Winter Solstice 386YE, the Imperial Synod raised 212 judgements.

==Veto==
One [[veto]] was presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 209===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Gwendoloena de Sarroi
* '''Judgement:''' The ceding of the Fangs to Rahvin, under threat from the eternal Irra Harah, did not receive the appropriate scrutiny of either the Synod or Conclave. Therefore we seek a Judgement of Veto
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (108-122)
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">
{|
|+ <big>'''Judgement Quick Links'''</big>
! Judgement Type
! Amount
|-
|[[#Veto|Veto]] || 1
|-
|[[#Statement of Principle|Statement of Principle]]|| 120
|-
|[[#Mandate|Mandate]] || 9
|-
|[[#Writ of Excommunication|Writ of Excommunication]] || 1
|-
|[[#Revocation|Revocation]] || 6
|-
|[[#Inquisition|Inquisition]] || 21
|-
|[[#Sanction|Sanction]] || 19
|-
|[[#Recognition|Recognition]] || 4
|-
|[[#Appointment|Appointment]] || 26
|-
|[[#Rewarding|Rewarding]] || 4
|-
|}
</div>
==Statement of Principle==
One hundred and twenty [[Statement of Principle|statements of principle]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 9===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Leonora van Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Cruel tactics are not useful when we seek to spread the Way across the world. Varushka spoke wisely and courageously when they concluded this. That Wisdom should not be lost with the sacrifice of the Iron Helms. Let our armies unite in purpose and set aside these tactics, ending the divisions they have suffered. We are missionaries as well as conquerers. The Virtuous apply what they learn.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1882-304)
* '''Notes:''' References [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_80|Judgement 80]] of the Autumn Equinox 386YE, and the long-running debate about the role of [[Army qualities#Cruel|cruel]] strategies such as those employed by the [[Iron Helms]].

===Judgement 10===
__TOC__
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Sofonisba Amilcara of the City below
* '''Judgement:''' This Assembly endorses Conclave's call for the construction of the Chamber of Eyphony, a fane for Sung in Apulian, and accepts responsibility for appointment and oversight of the associated title. The League's custodianship of Spiral comes with a responsibility to make this a place of pride, equal in stature and luxury to her sister cities - the best of everything. We will build a home for beauty here.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (314-20)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Fane_of_Sung|Declaration of Concord]] passed by the Conclave at the Autumn Equinox 386YE.

===Judgement 11===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Fabio Costa de Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' Taddea Ginori, for the last ten years, has investigated and collated the lost histories of the founding of our great Empire. We recognise the wisdom and vigilance of her historiography, and her courage for sharing the truth uncovered. She has been nominated with a dose of true liao from the Lepidean Library; we recognise this ten-year academic pilgrimage as an example to all.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1098-148)
* '''Notes:''' Taddea Ginori went on to [[#Judgement_3|win]] the dose of [[true liao]]

===Judgement 13===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
* '''Judgement:''' The remains of Leaguers are usually cremated and thrown into one of the great rivers of the Empire. It is only right that the soldiers of the Towerjacks and Wolves of War who died at the battle of Solen's Doubt should have the same opportunity - let us dam the river Doubt and finally give our soldiers the funerals they deserve. We welcome other nations' efforts to ensure their dead are treated with respect.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (306-68)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the plan to establish a dam in [[Spiral]], as discussed in the '''[[Million_miles_of_water#The_Way_Less_Taken|Million miles of water]]''' wind of fortune, and the [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29|Battle of Solen's Doubt]] where Imperial and [[Grendel]] forces clashed as the {{Black Plateau}} awoke.

===Judgement 14===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' In the east citizens have heeded the mandate to aid in the protection of our borders with the Druj. I ask that those threatened by the Grendel and the Children of Wrecks be inspired and heed that same call. We have bloodied their nose in Redoubt but the Grendel and the Children of Wrecks will return, and we must be prepared. Citizens of the southern shores I call on you to be proactive, report suspicious activity, and be prepared to fight.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1952-0)
* '''Notes:''' References to the ongoing efforts of citizens to patrol the eastern border, as discussed in the '''[[You_could_be_happy#Proactive_Measures|You could be happy]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 15===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' The Grand Inspiration is the Empire's vision of how the Way will endure, not merely "Highguard's monument to Virtue" - The Highborn have already built those. The Way was born in Bastion but made concrete by our Empire, so it is our Pride and duty to continue seeing our Grand Inspiration flourish through the contributions of ALL our nations. Now is not the time to falter in fear and leave a project stumbling in its wake. Fundamentals of the Way are being questioned, yes, but to let it impede our progress shows the world that we as an Empire are not confident in our faith and shows weakness. I do not believe that this is our message, and neither should you. The Way will endure and the Grand Inspiration will shine. The Empire will make it happen.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1166-170)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing discussion around the place of the [[Construct Grand Inspiration of the Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]], as discussed in the '''[[Pride_and_paragons#The_Grand_Inspiration|Pride and paragons]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 17===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Valentin Severyan Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' "The Virtuous inspire others to greatness" - Troubadours of Dawn are more than mere priests since we are chroniclers and custodians of Legacy. Proud standard-bearers of Glory and Virtue done by others. It is we who carry the names of heroes gone through the Labyrinth and ensure that no honour is forgotten, no great soul left unsung. To be a Troubadour is to recognise inspiration - to witness the example one wishes to teach. For as the Way reminds us: "Embrace your past; never be ashamed of it". Therefore, let the Dawnish Assembly acknowledge Ser Katra Walker keeper of the rolls of the dead, organiser of the Festival of Remembrance, artist-calligrapher of the scrolls that render our fallen magnificent. Through her sacred art, she makes glorious legacy become eternal and guides the Virtuous steps of each new generation. Let he name be celebrated as Proud example and may others be stirred by her work to lift high the names of those who gave all for glory! We reward Ser Katra Walker with Testimony and Recognition and the highest praise.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (326-10)
* '''Notes:''' The judgement of [[rewarding]] exists specifically to reward virtuous behaviour.

===Judgement 19===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Ser Sable "Knight of Love"
* '''Judgement:''' If there are to be tales told of the Fangs let it be of those who defended it! We the Dawnish Assembly not only condemn the actions of General Wolfborne, but propose that his name not be recorded on the Baner of Glorious dead when his time comes. If his name does live on let it be in infamy! The villain of this story, told in the tones we give de Gacher when we tell the story of Gilda Ashwine. His actions were cowardly, underhanded, unvirtuous, and against the will of the National Assembly and the Throne. Let him be an example of the antithesis of Glory and used to teach our children what Glory is not.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (274-112)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing repercussions of '''Archavion Wolfborne's''' orders as General of the Gryphon's Pride, as discussed in the '''[[By northern shores]]''' wind of war and the '''[[Start a war]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 21===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Luke
* '''Judgement:''' Cruelty tears down rather than builds, leaving behind ruin instead of legacy. Yet Cruelty often disguises itself as a necessity, whispering that prolonged suffering is the price of safety, order, or power. Cruel Armies sow dissent, alienate potential converts, extinguishes Virtue, and fractures Loyalty between nations. Cruelty is the antithesis of ruthless pragmatism - to execute an enemy is often necessary, to prolong their suffering is not. True strength lies in rejecting Cruelty and embracing Benevolence. This path is not one of weakness, but of Courage, resilient, and an unyielding commitment to Virtue, It is the hardest path - the mark of heroes and Paragons, a testament to those who dare defy the ordinary and aspire to greatness. Let us reject the Empire's use of Cruel Armies and instead choose our legacy. Let us transcend with Benevolence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1544-426)
* '''Notes:''' Contributes to the long-running debate about the Empire's use of [[Army qualities#Cruel|cruel]] strategies, such as those employed by the [[Iron Helms]], as well as the wider discussion around Imperial attitudes to their enemies.

===Judgement 23===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Belial de Courtney Wyldrose
* '''Judgement:''' We Dawnish know the value of love and glory. However, as it stands, we only have a mechanism to prove our romantic love. Platonic love, friendship and declarations of loyalty should be recognised as being just as important. Leonel de Courtenay Wyldrose and I propose the creation of a third test, to cover just these instances. A Test of Devotion. Join me Priests of Dawn, in recognising that there is more to love in our nation than just the romantic
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (206-124)
* '''Notes:''' [[Dawn]] currently has three well known [[Dawn culture and customs|tests]]: the Test of Mettle, the Test of Ardour, and the Test of Resolve. The [[Dawn_culture_and_customs#The_Test_of_Ardour|Test of Ardour]] is arguably a specific part of noble [[Marriage_in_Dawn|marriage traditions]], rather than a mechanism to "prove" romantic love.

===Judgement 24===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Elagabala
* '''Judgement:''' Education is the greatest gift. We urge the people of Urizen to aid in anchoring the Way in Asavea, so that the Asaveans might share in the Revelation as we have, and contribute to the perfection of the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (214-20)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing efforts to spread the Way to Asavea, as discussed in the '''[[One of us]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 29===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Dr Lysimachus
* '''Judgement:''' As per my previous statement of principle, I once said that the Empire had plenty of enemies and we should be fighting with them instead of each other. To the people who took this mean go fight Alongside a bunch of heralds of the Mother of Wrecks, that is not what I meant you Shark-Loving, Dumb-Ass, Bumble-Fucks! I realise this statement targets a thankfully rather small percentage of the population. But still one that is larger than zero, and Wisdom says to despise folly and the fool that spreads it. In future, we should really avoid galivanting off with such cartilaginous entities who are rather fond of devouring our fellows.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1160-140)
* '''Notes:''' Appears to refer to the Imperials who supported the Children of Wrecks raid against [[Redoubt]], as discussed in the '''[[On southern sands]]''' wind of war.

===Judgement 31===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ortenzi di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' In the matter of Exemplars and Paragons, we should take direction from Kala and weigh each system of measurement in turn, taking from each only that which is useful. The Schools of Thought regarding Paragons should not be exempt from this scrutiny. The Doctrines of Faith do not state that Exemplars and Paragons must follow only one virtue across the duration of their lives. The established Signs of the Paragon and Exemplar make no mention of single-virtue pursuit. I call upon this Assembly to support the Recognition of Exemplars and Paragons of The Way, to enable our greatest inspirations to be recognised in the fullness of their virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1001-444)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing fallout from the shock of [[Life of Vardas]], as discussed in the '''[[Pride and paragons]]''' wind of fortune, with particular reference to the exemplar of [[Wisdom]], the [[Urizen|Urizeni]] scholar [[Kala]].

===Judgement 35===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement:''' The Highborn Assembly supports the remodelling of the Hostels of Virtue's Rest in Bastion to create a hospital for the Virtuous Wounded. Let the White City be a source of convalescence and succour for the soldiers that manifest the Empire's destiny. In this time of Crusade, we call our virtuous healers to flock to this new outlet for their talents and seek their destiny there. I say as a General, as a Healer, and as a Priest that our wars can only be won with the Way at their heart. Let our wounded heroes gaze upon the wonder of the Grand Inspiration and watch their souls soar!
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn
* '''Notes:''' Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard was not a member of the Synod at this summit.

===Judgement 36===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtuous raise up their fellows. In Peerless Kinship, we have aided our sibling nations in Kahraman, the Barrens, Skarsind, the Mournwold, and, in the weeks to come, Therunin. This National Assembly wishes to continue to offer our nation's labours in Peerless Kinship, for however long there is need. Let all that is worthwhile be shared.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (520-22)
* '''Notes:''' References previous uses of the Highborn Assembly's power of [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|Peerless Kinship]]. As discussed in the '''[[Wasp_nest#A_Peerless_Future|Wasp nest]]''' wind of fortune, a clear statement such as this may lead to an [[opportunity]] for the Highborn assembly to continue to use that power.

===Judgement 37===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Torin
* '''Judgement:''' Navarr has committed to eradicating its age-long enemy, the vallorn, in a most Ambitious and heroic act. The people of Wintermark have shown skepticism, but the decision to act has been made: Navarr prepares for war. If we abandon our allies now, we consign them and the Empire to the consequences. If we have opinions they are best heard as friends, not adversaries. We need to give voice to our Wisdom in this endeavour, and provide warriors willing to stand against the storm. Only suited do we succeed. We are three people, one nation. We are ten nations, one Empire. It is with Loyalty, Courage and Pride that the people of Wintermark support Navarr in their plan to destroy the vallorn.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (68-128)
* '''Notes:''' References [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_74|Judgement 74]] raised by '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' during the Autumn Equinox 386YE, as discussed in '''[[The_war_of_thorns_and_flowers#Dawn,_Wintermark_and_Urizen|The war of thorns and flowers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 42===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tarquinius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' Accurate information on false virtues has benefited us militarily and diplomatically as well as making it easier to oppose cultists within the Empire. Engagement with false virtue auras alone should not be prosecuted as a religious crime where the following are true: 1) The action was motivated by true virtue. 2) The action was taken in full view of the synod. 3) The false virtue was intended to be removed in reasonable time. 4) There was no preaching against doctrine. 5) There was no intent to denigrate a true virtue, exemplar, or paragon
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (814-166)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing crisis of faith around cardinals swearing an oath to carry an item hallowed with an aura of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Peace|Peace]], as discussed in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune. This judgement ultimately contributed to the magistrates declaring a mistrial, and resolving to explore the matter with an eye towards more robust guidance and possible changes to the way Condemnation, and investigation of religious crimes in general, should be undertaken.

===Judgement 44===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Frater. Pontius
* '''Judgement:''' In the ten things, it is said that the source of Highborn Pride is certainty. These are turbulent times. Confusion ravages pilgrims across the Empire. But we are Highborne, the Elder sibling. The shining example to all nations. As certainly is our foundation and our sacred duty. Never has it been said that highguard was broken, show us your <u>certainty</u>! Siblings, hold fast to the Way's fundamental truth. Trust in your national assembly. By standing resolute together, we inspire the empire. The Way is certain. The Way is stainless. The Way is True. We declare 387 to be the year of certainty. Gather all congregations and spread the light of certainty to all.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (282-110)
* '''Notes:''' References the concept of the "[[Pride#The_Ten_Things|Ten Things]]" - the idea that each of the Imperial nations can be associated with a single common idea that is often referred to as a source of [[Pride]], made popular by the [[Navarr]] writer ''Cerin of Winter Trees'' in the early years of the Empire.

===Judgement 45===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Silk Farkas
* '''Judgement:''' The assembly calls on priests, pilgrims and citizens of the Empire to attend the consecration of the Library of Hacynian. To witness the certainty of how Wisdom can benefit the Empire, and the world beyond in this time of great questioning. We welcome members of the Historical Research Department and Eilian Sweetwater whose contributions over the years have been crucial to the achievements that led to this momentous occasion, as well as others who assisted in the projects conducted at this site.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (188-28)
* '''Notes:''' References the consecration of the [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian|Library of Hacynian]] with [[liao#True Liao|true liao]], as discussed in the '''[[Little faith]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 49===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Eldrid 'Phoenix Flame'
* '''Judgement:''' Wintermark as a nation are innovative and dedicated. We strive and hold true to our values and the importance of a name. Tenure, though beneficial to those who value the position within the nation, can cause complacency to others. As such, I hereby call upon the Synod for the removal of tenure from all positions held in Wintermark and for all positions to be voted upon each year. By removing tenure, those who wish to retain titles must prove their dedication and commitment to their charge and keep the positions held for those who wish to bring Wintemark the best opportunities and prosperity.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (152-80)
* '''Notes:''' Continues the ongoing discussion about [[New_Imperial_titles#Tenure|tenure]] - a title that is held until the incumbent dies, steps down, or is [[revocation|revoked]]. Alongside revocation, the recently created [[judgement]] of [[Challenge]] has been created in an attempt to address Synod concerns about long-term appointments. Any amendment of a title to remove tenure would require the [[Imperial Senate]]; the Synod cannot enact a legal change such as this.

===Judgement 50===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Mazo Freewalker
* '''Judgement:''' The seizure of the Fangs Mithril Mine from the Rahvin shows great disloyalty to the Empress and the Empire, and a lack of Wisdom in alienating allies. And what was gained? A mine that costs more to run than it yields. Let no more blood be shed over this. The Fangs mine should be given back to the Rahvin.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1389-410)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing situation with [[the Barrens#The Fangs|the Fangs]] and the Rahvin, as discussed in the '''[[Start a war]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 52===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Caspian i Shathra i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' We the Synod declare that a Mizer who practices Usury is unvirtuous. It is established that a Mizer, who hoards money, is unvirtuous. How much worse then the Mizer who then makes loans and charges interest on them. Seeking to sit upon an even bigger pile of unspent money. And at the same time demanding profit from their victims, without performing any work at all. Disgusting.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (782-428)
* '''Notes:''' References the common [[Prosperity#Guidance_on_the_Path|guidance]] of the path of [[Prosperity]] which urges dedicants to "despise the grasping miser".

===Judgement 53===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Merari
* '''Judgement:''' In recognition of his program to allow small Chapters in Highguard to gain experience and wealth trading bourse resources, thereby widening Prosperity of the Empire. We welcome Gideon of the Suns of Couros to the roll of benefactors.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (292-0)
* '''Notes:''' Gideon of the Suns of Couros has been added to the [[Roll of Benefactors]]

===Judgement 54===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Vinitharov Ervig
* '''Judgement:''' Courage is not recklessness - the ongoing ceasefire with Otkodov has given the Empire's generals the strategic berth and confidence to confront their true enemies. As this ceasefire draws to a close we must confront this uncomfortable truth - we must not allow a resumption of conflict on our northern border, and must proceed with negotiations with the Thule for the good of the Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (162-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing treaty discussions with the [[Thule]], as discussed in the '''[[About today]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 58===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Casey Lonestrider
* '''Judgement:''' Thornsong House is a source of immense pride, its research is a boon to the Empire. We encourage all who pass through Peakedge Stead to partake of their knowledge and share it along the trods so that should Thornsong be threatened, something of its work may continue. Sponsored by Farren Silverstreams.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (282-0)
* '''Notes:''' References [[Thornsinger#Thornsong_House|Thornsong House]], the apothecary college in [[Therunin#Peakedge Song|Peakedge Song]] and the close proximity of the [[Druj]] in [[Therunin]].

===Judgement 59===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Cousin Cedric
* '''Judgement:''' The Marches are treated like the shield of the empire and though our Loyalty we have pushed back against the Jotun time and time again yet that Loyalty is not repaid. For too long the Empire has left Bregasland unfortified. Fisher's Rock unrepaired and this has cost far too many Marcher lives. This stops now! The Marches will have to solve our own problems like we always do. I call on every True Marcher with Loyalty to their home to give everything they can be that coin, labour, or resources to the repair of Fisher's Rock. Because loyalty is not displayed by words, but by our deeds.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (78-40)
* '''Notes:''' References the long broken fortification of [[Bregasland#Fisher’s_Rock|Fisher's Rock]] and efforts to rebuild it, as most recently discussed in the '''[[Kith_and_kin#Good_Apples|Kith and kin]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 61===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Artis "The Unyielding" of Greyholm
* '''Judgement:''' People of Wintermark! I call upon your vigilance! The cultist of Blood-on-the-Snow, the icewalker Kaarina White-Eye, has been discovered to be returning to Wintermark, in Sermersuaq. Be Vigilant! And give her, her followers, and her master no hospitality! Trust our own beliefs: Be the cunning Suaq, brave Steinr, wise Kallavesi!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (270-0)
* '''Notes:''' References Kaarina White-Eye, known cultist of [[Agramant]], as discussed in the '''[[Anyone_but_you#Kaarina_White-Eye|Anyone but you]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 62===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Donald Talbot
* '''Judgement:''' "I recognise that the miners of Mournwold work the land as hard as any farmer. I recognise that they deserve to have their voices heard in our territory. I recognise that they are not expendable - they have resisted and fought on when others could not. I recognise their Pride in the land, and I do not ask that they put it aside. I ask that this Pride fuel their Loyalty to the Mournwold by helping me defend it. In Loyalty to one another, I swear to continue to recognise, aid, and fight for the miners of Mournwold for as long as I live. If I break this oath, I will go to the Wicker Man." We recognise this Oath made by Stanley of Chalkdown, General of the Tusks, upon the battlefield in Autumn 386YE. With words written by Mine-Captain Jedediah Boon, General Stanley spoke with Virtue to the Miner's Resistance of the Ore Hills, who were anointed to Loyalty but dedicated to Pride. Together, the Mournwold stands.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (74-24)
* '''Notes:''' References an oath made by '''Stanley of Chalkdown''', General of the [[Tusks]], at the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_fortune#Major_Conjunctions|Battle of Jade Wood]].

===Judgement 63===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Veikko Bondforger
* '''Judgement:''' Do not be complacent; ever strive for excellence in that of which you are proud. Kali Keeneye, so named for being the first to spot the Thule attempting to steal the body of the Young Empress Britta, has never allowed a single act of Heroism to be enough. Always they look for the next challenge to prove their worth. They demonstrate that when one strives to embody the very best of our heroic traditions we cannot help but achieve greatness. They stood as a champion of the people of Skarsind when precious few others could. They used great cunning to retrieve Ajax from the Glade of the One, risking everything to reclaim a potent symbol of virtue. They have led numerous skirmishes to both victory and defeat, yet always with a hero's heart and uplifting all those with them. We are proud to enter them into the Chronicle of Heroes.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (242-10)
* '''Notes:''' '''Kali Keeneye''' has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle of Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]]

===Judgement 68===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Corey Wayfarer
* '''Judgement:''' We support the creation of a Fane to Arhallogen, their boons may be of great benefit in the war against the Vallorn. We must, however, be Vigilant against the threat of idolatry - we would advise that the proposed position of Huntsmaster of the Spider King be appointed by the Navarr National Assembly. Should this not be palatable to Conclave then we would ask that a Navarry Synod position be created to act as a Virtuous Counsellor to the Huntsmaster and any similar Navarr positions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (244-22)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[fane]] offered by [[Arhallogen]], as discussed in the '''[[All_my_magic_friends#A_Fane_Fit_for_the_King_(Arhallogen)|All my magic friends]]''' wind of fortune. The opportunity outlined in that wind of fortune has a requirement that the title, ''Huntsmaster of the Spider King'', be appointed by Declaration of Candidacy in the Conclave

===Judgement 70===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Earna Pathfinder
* '''Judgement:''' Navarr rejects the use of cruel tactics by Imperial armies. The Dance of Blood is in our past, not our future.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (246-84)
* '''Notes:''' References the ''Dance of Blood'', a [[Army_qualities#Cruel|cruel]] army which was destroyed by the [[Jotun]] in 245YE. It also contributes to the long-running debate about the Empire's use of [[Army qualities#Cruel|cruel]] strategies, such as those employed by the [[Iron Helms]].

===Judgement 72===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Winifred Blackhawk
* '''Judgement:''' We have lost Isaella's Dance, however let its sacrifice not be in vain. We ask the nation not to lose the knowledge of the Thornbound, knowledge that will be useful in our forthcoming fight against the vallorn. We should examine ways we might preserve it so we can use it again.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (302-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[Army_qualities#Thornbound|thornbound]] quality of [[Isaella's Dance]], who were destroyed by the Druj, as discussed in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war. It calls for a new Navarr army to be raised that employs the knowledge of [[Spring magic]] in service of the nation.

===Judgement 73===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ironvigil Rikke the Relentless
* '''Judgement:''' Imperial citizens, I call you to vigilance against the influences of Agramant. Cults of this malign eternal are known to move in several Imperial territories, and we know more are, as yet, undiscovered. Keep your eyes open. Keep vigilant. This eternal preys upon those who are hungry, hurt and alone. Guard each other.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1546-0)
* '''Notes:''' Urges priests to remain [[Vigilance|Vigilant]] against the ongoing machinations of the wicked [[eternal]] of the [[Realm#Winter|Winter realm]] known as [[Agramant]] (among other names).

===Judgement 74===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Konstantin Rabovich Bolotnikov
* '''Judgement:''' The idolatrous shrines in the Palace of Orieb should be destroyed.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (126-164)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[Apothecary_of_Orieb#Palace_of_Orieb|Palace of Orieb]]. The palace holds remnants of [[Apothecary_of_Orieb#Shrines_at_Orieb|shrines]] that were used in ceremonies by [[Druj]] [[Druj lore#Ghulai|ghulai]] to acquire [[vis]] from [[eternal|eternals]] and could, in theory, be restored.

===Judgement 76===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Brynmor Rootround
* '''Judgement:''' Fear blooms in Therunin, but our kin remain! Our hearths roar outside the Druj's grasp, open to any Great Forest Orc. We offer them to resettle out of danger, and protect the young, old and weak through to Hercynia, Miaren and Brocéliande. We are grateful to deep Loyalty forged in blood. May the Spear of Pines rise as saplings again.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (332-10)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war, and the losses suffered by the [[Great Forest Orcs]] warriors, under the [[Great_Forest_Orcs#Military|Spear of the Pines]], who [[Under_eastern_skies#Objective:_Braid_the_Peoples|fought alongside]] the [[Black Thorns]].

===Judgement 77===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Brynn Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' Condemning the study of false virtues undermines the foundation of the Way. Ours is a practice of investigation and learning, not of blind dogma. If such study is found unbecoming of Cardinals then let them be revoked, <u>NOT</u> condemned.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (176-10)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing crisis of faith around cardinals swearing an oath to carry an item hallowed with an aura of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Peace|Peace]], as discussed in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 78===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark
* '''Judgement:''' The Assembly of Nine have dabbled with malign spiritual forces in an irresponsible way. The General Assembly continues to act with reckless disregard for the finite resources in of the Empire. While this chaos continues we, your stormcrows, urge the people of Wintermark to heed the guidance of the National Assembly over the poor example set by the rest of the Synod.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (180-34)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing crisis of faith around cardinals swearing an oath to carry an item hallowed with an aura of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Peace|Peace]], as discussed in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 80===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Vivane Knotes
* '''Judgement:''' Prosperity demands a fair day's pay for a fair day's work. There are many entirely valid reasons why that fair pay can vary, but taking advantage of the desperate and impoverished is not one as far as Prosperity is concerned. The folk in Feroz may not heed us, but the people paying those folk to build their commissions can. If you can't find a way to pay them a fair recompense, this Assembly will be watching you and will ask how you've used that money you saved to help the folk you short changed.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (324-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing [[Send_for_me#Impoverished|impoverished]] nature of [[Feroz]], as discussed in the '''[[Send for me]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 82===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Chauntecleer Words
* '''Judgement:''' Let's help Drycastle. Last year this assembly asked the prosperous citizens of Dawn to channel their efforts towards the grand inspiration of the way in Bastion. Efforts have now stopped, in principle we could ask again.Instead however I would suggest there is a more modest but still worthwhile endeavour close to home. Senator Aramis Du Froste successfully commissioned the rebuilding of Drycastle, an impoverished Senate has distributed some funds but only a small fraction, and no more will come. There's a lot of work to be done in the Barrens, if the nation were to support their rebuilding of Drycastle as it did with the inspiration of the way - the remaining work would be finished in two seasons. Whilst Drycastle remains in ruins after the Druj desolation, it is an affront to our Pride. The nation should help Aramis rectify this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (288-10)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing efforts to [[Rebuild Drycastle|rebuild Drycastle]], as originally discussed in the '''[[A_glorious_victory#Drycastle|A glorious victory]]''' wind of fortune, and the ''Grand Inspiration of the Way'' introduced in the '''[[Blood will thicken]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 83===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tren Meals
* '''Judgement:''' One year ago, this assembly asked its dedicants not support senate commissions whilst the senate determines what is crime, directs the militia towards criminality, and then profits from the resultant fines - this is a gateway to corruption. Since then the senate has received record fines, and senate members regularly complain to assembly goers to try and harangue us to change course - but at no point have they changed anything about their unvirtuous windfall. Conversely, we have suggested alternates such as auction of a commission slot with proceeds to the virtue fund, or taking only the proceeds of non-religious crimes. We re-affirm our commitment to this strike till something change, and ask the senate members not to bother us again until they are willing to negotiate. And if they don't, maybe our dedicants should look to this Assembly not senators to direct their labour.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (258-70)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing situation with regards to the way fines levied by the Magistrates contribute to the [[Imperial treasury]]. Also refers to the [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_127|mandate]] enacted by '''Luca i Taziel i Riqueza''' to encourage the Senate to redirect these monies to the virtue fund, as originally discussed in the '''[[Forwards_and_Rewards#Fines_and_Funds|Forwards and Rewards]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 85===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' For too long we have abandoned the old ways. Those lessons, hard won by our forebears, lie forgotten beneath the altar of promises of dark power. We are Varushka and ours is to bargain - yes. But we have forgotten that not every bargain must be made. Forgotten that sometimes the cost is not worth it. We must learn again the joy of forging your own Path. Before we forget what it is to truly suffer.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (282-10)

===Judgement 86===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Thistle Welden
* '''Judgement:''' The consecration of the Library of Hacynian welcomes scholars and historians far and wide. This event is a ripe target for agents of the Whisper Gallery. We encourage vigilant citizens to remain alert for dangers that might dwell in the shadows of Hercynia for this occasion, and to seek out the malice of agents of this cult before they are able to strike.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (392-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the consecration of the [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian|Library of Hacynian]] with true liao, as discussed in the '''[[Little faith]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 89===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Yosephus Morningson
* '''Judgement:''' There are <u>Seven</u> Virtues that guide the spirit, <u>Seven</u> 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. We must not spread a distorted Way. We ask now for a mandate to send Priests of the Way to Asavea to proclaim the Seven Virtues, the Eight Doctrines, and the One True Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (114-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing efforts to spread the Way to Asavea, as discussed in the '''[[One of us]]''' wind of fortune, and also the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Seven|Doctrine of Seven]] which defines the seven Virtues that guide the spirit through the Labyrinth of Ages.

===Judgement 90===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Dagonet de Gauvain
* '''Judgement:''' Don't steal from your neighbours. It's useful to the Empire to know that the Yellow Fist Adit mine can be expanded from Mareave into Jadefall in Skoura to take water from their lake. Mareave surely needs the water, and should it ever come to war with the Skourans then that's a decent strategem. But right now we're not at war with the Skourans, they're our neighbours. And Good Walder had a club for exactly the kind of person that steals from their neighbours rather than trades fairly. Don't steal from the Skourans, and the assembly can let our clubs rest easy.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (336-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the recent opportunity to construct an aqueduct in [[Mareave]], as discussed in the '''[[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift|Million miles of water]]''' wind of fortune, and also [[Good Walder]], the paragon of [[Prosperity]].

===Judgement 92===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Mel Bleak
* '''Judgement:''' A representative of the Lepidean Library writ t'Marcher Assembly, telling us they didn't want t'do their jobs 'cos it'll make 'em sad. The Marcher Assembly agrees that if the librarians have neither the courage t'face unwelcome truths nor the vigilance t'seek out falsehoods, maybe this is a job someone else should be doin'. We appeal t'the pride o' the monasteries t'take a trip t'the heart of virtue; t' go t'Bastion and while there, do the job these librarians don't wanna. A job worth doin' is worth doin' yourself. Show the Empire how a proud Marcher does a good job.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (122-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing fallout from the shock of [[Life of Vardas]], specifically the actions of ''Mattias of Virtue's Rest'', as discussed in the '''[[Pride and paragons]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 93===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Friar John of the Mourn
* '''Judgement:''' Marchers bury their seeds in the ground and not in their heads. We would know the story of Tom Drake, both heroic deeds and ugly truths. We hold Tom Drake to be among the greatest of our folk heroes. We would expect archivists to find a record of a life of virtue and Marcher ideals. However, we the Marcher national assembly do not lack for courage, and should the Lepidean scholars find something unsavoury then we shall face that most unwelcome truth. We may be steadfast, even stubborn in your beliefs, but the Marcher people will not be accused of being ignorant.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (118-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing fallout from the shock of [[Life of Vardas]], specifically the delay on the research of the historic [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[general]] Tom Drake, as discussed in the '''[[Pride and paragons]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 95===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Harwyn Eternal
* '''Judgement:''' They say the Dance is ended. But we are Navarr. We know that the Dance never ends, it simply changes. Soldiers of Isaellas Dance. Warriors of the Spears of the Pines. You have fulfilled your oaths. Your have paid a price in blood and lives. You have earned your rest. But if there are still those of you who feel the drive to take up arms, whose oath of thorn and vate and vine calls them to battle once more. We implore you to prepare. People of Navarr. People of our Kin in the Great Forest. The Druj stand in the way of our progress. They defy our goals and oaths. They threaten all we care for. And they have shown us what the steps in the Great Dance still to come to entail for any war waged against them. Death. As we rebuild, as we prepare, let us not do so as Navarr and Great Forest orc apart, but do so side by side. Our spears together, in a Dance of Pines.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (324-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war

===Judgement 96===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement:''' Let us welcome our neighbours, the Great Forest Orcs who have settled in Hercynia and those beyond. Spread the word that our hearths are open to them. Let us share our stories of heroism and hear their own. At the Autumn Equinox, Elik and Savra of the Great Forest Orcs met with the Ravenseer and a small number of Kallavesi mystics, in a meeting facilitated by Navarr. I had the privilege to sit in attendance. We spoke of our swamps, of Wintermark's heroism, and of our weirwood groves. We all left with more questions than answers and it was clear we could learn more from each other if we have the courage to ask. In this storm of conflict and treachery in the wider Empire, let us seize this opportunity to forge a new bond - To build up our fellows so that we may both benefit from each other's culture and knowledge.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (266-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, and specifically a call to action for Wintermark to aid the [[Great Forest Orcs]], as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war.

===Judgement 97===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Caoimhe Tendfallen
* '''Judgement:''' To declare the act of agreeing to experience and study an aura for a year, without the intent or expectation to promote it, as blasphemy or heresy is an attack on the nature of the Way. It declares knowledge complete, defangs the counsel of doctrinal reform, and makes investigative theology illegal.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (120-36)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing crisis of faith around cardinals swearing an oath to carry an item hallowed with an aura of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Peace|Peace]], as discussed in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 98===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Caewel Novarion
* '''Judgement:''' Great deeds are eternal and some of the greatest deeds Dawn has achieved is as part of the Empire. We should aspire to Glorious acts that benefit the Empire as a whole and not just Dawn itself. I call upon the people of Dawn to undertake quests to the other nations of the Empire and discover glorious deeds we can do to benefit those nations.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (190-0)
* '''Notes:''' Discusses the nature of [[glory]].

===Judgement 99===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Aethelric the Grounded
* '''Judgement:''' Opportunities for Virtue can come at the most unexpected of moments and it is the mark of true Heroism to embrace those opportunities with both hands. During the Autumn Summit of 386YE, Urvakki Taivasbarn rose to the challenge and provided desperately needed supplies of Prismatic Ink to the Anvil Hospital. In doing so, fifty Imperial citizens were spared either death or life-changing injuries from disposing of deadly black glass. It is often not enough to be in the right place in the right time. It is crucial to be the right person as well. Urvakki was such a person and their instinctive Courage and Loyalty towards their fellow citizens is hereby acknowledged and heartily encouraged.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (228-0)
* '''Notes:''' It's not clear if this was intended to add Urvakki Taivasbarn to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]] or just to recognise their deeds. The [[judgement]] of [[Rewarding]] exists as a way for the Synod to reward citizens who perform virtuous acts.

===Judgement 100===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Taddea Ginori
* '''Judgement:''' Virtue demands action. Let exemplars not be person, but an act. A choice made in virtue that we can point to as exemplary without the need to measure the entire sum of a person's life. Let us say "this was an exemplary moment of virtue and here's why."
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (585-894)
* '''Notes:''' Contributes to the debate around the role of paragons and exemplars, more widely discussed in the '''[[Pride and paragons]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 104===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Lars Makorov
* '''Judgement:''' With the Thule and the vallorn at our borders it would be both wise and vigilant to ensure that the citadel in Volodmartz be funded as a matter of great importance.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (218-0)
* '''Notes:''' Citadels are a recent innovation in the construction of [[fortification|fortifications]], as discussed in '''[[The_war_of_thorns_and_flowers#All_Along_the_Watchtower|The war of thorns and flowers]]''' wind of fortune, which provide significant protection to a [[territory#regions|region]] rather than a [[territory]].

===Judgement 105===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Mikael Reskovich
* '''Judgement:''' Husks are travelling north into Varuhska following the defeat of the Schlacta of Rot. We must practice vigilance at this time, and ensure that all interactions and sightings are noted and reported to local priests and wardens. Be alert to all dangers, within and without.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (288-0)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the death of the Schlacta of Rot, also known as the Deadwood Knight, and the repercussions of its death, as discussed in the '''[[Mistaken_for_strangers#Death's_Reprise|Mistaken for strangers]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 107===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Vauraus "Prosperity's Forge" Korppitkotka
* '''Judgement:''' At the Summer Solstice 386YE, a herald of the eternal Estavus, at our behest, provided plans for how the Pride of Ikka's Tears could be expanded into something that the people of Wintermark could be truly proud of. They suggested a location that a deep shaft could be dug. For Pride, Prosperity, and Ambition we want to make the most of the resources we have. But Vigilance and Wisdom demand that we understand what we can before we make that decision. To understand if there is any basis to the doubts that have been raised. We call on the icewalkers to investigate the mine, for the mediators to talk to the miners, and the skops to gather the stories, such that we may better understand whether to proceed.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (196-167)
* '''Notes:''' References the opportunity identified by ''Architect Noether'' to establish a new mining shaft at the [[Pride of Ikka's Tears]], as discussed in the '''[[Metal_and_stone#Pride_of_Ikka's_Tears|Metal and stone]]''' wind of fortue

===Judgement 109===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Teleri Thornweaver
* '''Judgement:''' The marshes of Therunin have taught us how to live where other struggles. Now strange waters rise in Madruga, and the Freeborn face what we know well. We encourage our people to offer aid to the Freeborn of Madruga, sharing our skills to help them adapt to the strange new marshes rising in their land. This is a chance to show Loyalty to our Freeborn friends, and Prosperity through Wisdom.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (296-20)
* '''Notes:''' References the strange new marshes of [[Madruga]], as discussed in the '''[[Made anew]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 110===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Alfredo Barossa
* '''Judgement:''' Loyalty to the Empire, in times of crisis, is demanded of all citizens. We face war on all our borders, a new Throne, financial crisis, and Generals who act with their own, not the Empire's, interest at heart. If we are to stand, we must unite. Loyalty cannot be compelled, but it must be expected to the Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at the request of the raising priest (52-82)

===Judgement 111===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Nikolovitch Drakov
* '''Judgement:''' Askeh was rehabilitated, the Loyalty Assembly stated (J179 Sum 386) "she is no more a risk to virtue then any other Imperial citizen". In Autumn 386 Highguard declared "To senselessly torment or mutilate a fallen foe is an act of hatred and vengeance." Despite this, last summit, disputes over Askeh led to many Highborn deaths which multiple inquisitions will investigate. These divisions have led a Highborn Priest to warn the Militia "Highguard is riddled with heresy". As the Grey Pilgrims return home I ask them to ask their siblings the difficult questions and expose lies. May their actions free Highguard from the internal rancour it finds itself mired in and reports of heresy.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1016-184)
* '''Notes:''' References [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_179|Judgement 179]] raised by '''Rinnah of the Shattered Tower''' during the Summer Solstice 386YE.

===Judgement 112===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Mael of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom knows all knowledge is incomplete - the Wisdom Assembly commend their fellows of the Sanguine Shields to gathering information on the beasts of the Grendel - this was virtuous and wise in itself. But, if that sodality should desire to continue this good work, the Empire's knowledge of our enemies' alliances with the realms is incomplete indeed. If the priests of wisdom are willing, let them go to the veterans of the Empire and gather tales of what heralds fight with the Jotun and Druj, what boons were used against our armies, what indications of their alliances were seen with the eternals. And if they cannot? We thank them nonetheless!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (204-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Ways_and_Means|Sanguine Shields]], a small sodality whose work has revealed information about the [[Dire Astacid|dire astacid]] and the [[Ghohlbrorn|ghohlbrorn]]. It urges them to continue their research, but it should be noted that the resources of the Sanguine Shields are much more limited than those available to the [[Historical_research#The_Department_of_Historical_Research|Department of Historical Research]].

===Judgement 113===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Rafe
* '''Judgement:''' We commend the courage of the heroic captains that supported the Sumaah Republic in thwarting the Asavean blockade of their ports. When a hero commits to a path they see it through to the end and the blockade is not yet broken. Let those captains who feel the call of this cause continue to courageously defend our allies in virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (298-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing efforts of [[fleet]] captains to [[Voyage#Thwart_the_Blockade|thwart the blockade]] on the [[Sumaah Republic]], as most recently discussed in the '''[[Friend_of_mine#War_and_Salt|Friend of mine]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 114===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Trencher Shoulder in the Cold
* '''Judgement:''' Wintermarkers! The need for the Way in Asavea is needed more than ever. All are implored to speak to your relatives, your friends and acquaintances to help find those in Asavea that are receptive to the words of the Way. Follow in the path of the sevenfold and the Loyalty Assembly. We all need to work together to see this achieved.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (200-16)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing efforts to spread the Way to Asavea, as discussed in the '''[[One of us]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 115===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Azir i Shartha i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' With the renewed focus on inspirational figures past and present, we must work to celebrate the virtuous amongst us. Inquisition can and should be a tool in doing that. We welcome the Conscience's motion that passed Senate Friday night, Winter 386YE. This lays down a new sanction - a <u>Judgement of Exhaltation</u>. Inquisitng not just to determine innocence but to laud virtue; to celebrate great deeds and great people. An exhalation that passes with a greater majority will be entered on a new roll of honour, documenting the virtuous.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1332-38)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Create_Judgement_of_Exaltation|motion]] to create a new judgement raised by '''Richard''', in her last motion as [[Conscience of the Senate]]

===Judgement 118===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Travid Longest Path
* '''Judgement:''' The Empire armies march west, leaving Therunin alone in hand of the Druj. Those who can fight and choose to - bear arms. Those who cannot should seek sanctuary amongst our neighbours and find safety in our wayhouses. Land can be reclaimed - our people cannot! Survival is not cowardice, it is loyalty to the future. We will one day seize back. Help Thornsong and House of Healing carry their work to safety, let the knowledge and legacy of Therunin outlast the Druj's grasp. We will not all what happened in Liathaven to happen here. We are the shield, the thorn and the song that will not die. You cannot abandon who you are - and we are Therunin!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (331-0)
* '''Notes:'''References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war. See also [[#Judgement 150|Judgement 150]], among others.

===Judgement 119===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ignacio i Zuhri i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' We cannot reignite the grand rivalry between Oran and Siroc without Siroc. Once it is reclaimed, let us float the City of Sails upon the Bayou. Let the prideful people of Madruga lift each other up, and a new Siroc stand as testament to the Ambition of a nation rebuilding. We will rebuild Siroc.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (118-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the destruction of [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] and the rebuilding of [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]], as discussed in the '''[[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune. [[Madruga]] is not currently under Imperial control; one region is claimed by the [[Children of Wrecks]] and three more are currently uncontrolled.

===Judgement 122===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ilai
* '''Judgement:''' Auras are tools of teaching and inspiration. It is blasphemy to teach false virtue. It is <u>not</u> blasphemy to be taught false virtue. We should condemn the fools so dedicated to lesser qualities that they create auras of malign inspiration. Those who come under their influence should be granted opportunity to turn back to virtue. <u>Condemn</u> the dedicated teachers.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (656-308)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing crisis of faith around cardinals swearing an oath to carry an item hallowed with an aura of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Peace|Peace]], as discussed in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 125===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Aramis du Froste
* '''Judgement:''' The Dawnish in the Barrens throw open our doors to refugees from Therunin. To rest in our beds, to eat at our hearths, and to prepare for battles to come. In concert; the troubadours, priests of Dawn, will descend to the Barrens-Therunin border, to offer spiritual support to refugees, and to <u>make ready</u> to march into Therunin as a tide of virtue to wash away the horrors of the Druj.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (212-74)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war. See also [[#Judgement 118|Judgement 118]].

===Judgement 126===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' Vigilant Marchers have done a grand job watching out for cultists of Blood-on-the-Snow. The cultists killed Gerraint Black - whose life was given defending our soil. Let's do him proud. The cultists are not gone yet! Keep eyes out in Upwold and Mitwold, especially near regios. Let's not leave the job half done.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (126-0)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the ongoing machinations of [[Agramant]]

===Judgement 128===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Luca i Taziel i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' We could not vote against ceding Feroz, even those of us who wanted to. But now, the Freeborn Assembly has the right and duty to veto the ceding of Freeborn territory. We cannot allow the hearth and homes of Segura to be lost. That is not Prosperity, that is not Pride. We will veto the ceding of Segura, should we have to.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (114-16)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the proposed treaty with the Lasambrian [[Jotun]], presented in the '''[[So far so fast]]''' wind of fortune. In the end, the [[Imperial Senate]] chose to [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Lasambrian_Treaty|rejected the treaty]].

===Judgement 129===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Dag Kinnad
* '''Judgement:''' The Ravenseer asked Mystics of Ishal to find magical means to protect Kallavesa. They returned with the plan to build a fane to Sadogua. Sadogua has shown good trust, granting full power of Dripping Echoes of the Fen to Kallavesa. Mystics, mages, Champion of the Mark, Archmage of Night, Grandmaster of Rod and Shield have agreed. Their oath requires "Big Magic" over Kallavesa, an arcane projection to encourage citizens to create delicious concoctions of food and drink. Those who represent the traditions of the Mark show great Courage and Wisdom following the example of forward-thinking of Isebrad. The stormcrows of Wintermark support the casting of this ritual.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (118-20)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[arcane projection]] cast on [[Kallavesa]] this season, with some details in the '''[[387YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Feast_For_Kallavesa_(Kallavesa)|Spring Equinox 387YE interlude]]''', as well as ongoing relations with the [[eternal]] of the [[Realm#Night|Night Realm]], [[Sadogua]], and restrictions placed on the use of [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]]. The specific matter of [[Kallavesa]] is discussed in the '''[[Patterns of fairytales#Meeting of minds|Patterns of fariytales]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 130===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Keziah of the Suns of Couros
* '''Judgement:''' Seeing the crisis unfolding in Therunin we, the Highborn assembly, ask the chapters of Reikos to open their doors to the Navarr and Great Forest orcs who seek safe refuge.Let us welcome those in need with a benevolent spirit. Be proud to support our neighbours.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (616-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war. See also [[#Judgement 118|Judgement 118]].

===Judgement 131===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Dolce di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' There is an opportunity to make the Great Chains of Sarvos even stronger. The Chains have protected not just Sarvos, but the League. We have held strong against the threat of the Grendel at our part of the Bay of Catazar. Let us not find ourselves lacking in vigilance, may we choose the ambitious way and choose to keep our nation strong. We ask our great citizens to donate to this great cause.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn

===Judgement 134===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Toby Tanner
* '''Judgement:''' Loyalty does <u>not</u> hold people to loyalties against their will. The implication of Judgement 127 Autumn 386YE was incorrect. Hal Talbot might be a shit, but his Loyalty is not in question. It is now up to the farmers to make their choice, and let that be the end of it.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (86-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the revocation of '''Hal Talbot''' as Senator for Mitwold, as discussed in the '''[[Rebels_and_loyalists#Eyes_of_Loyalty|Rebels and loyalists]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 135===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Larkin Otterways
* '''Judgement:''' The loyalty assembly condemns the practice of holding people to loyalties against their will. You do not get to decide what someone else is loyal to. However we still teach to despise betrayers. If someone publicly swears a loyalty and then betrays that bond, then there might be rightfully chastised. We oppose the implication in judgement 127 Autumn 386YE that a person's loyalty can be assumed and that they can be revoked for failing to live up to that, but fully support the clarification in judgement 134 Winter 386YE. The original wording was misleading.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (432-10)
* '''Notes:''' References the revocation of '''Hal Talbot''' as Senator for Mitwold, as discussed in the '''[[Rebels_and_loyalists#Eyes_of_Loyalty|Rebels and loyalists]]''' wind of fortune. This seems to be a clear statement in support of the [[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|eyes of Loyalty]].

===Judgement 137===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Jedediah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' Pretending there is no problem shows no Vigilance and lacks Courage. Refusing to shape the future fails Ambition, saying "nothing can change" holds little Wisdom. Loyalty is lost when a portion of our nation is ignored. Prosperity decries belittling our kin while reaping the reward of their work. Almost 3 years ago, Meri stated - on my behalf - that the Marcher Assembly knew the importance of Marchers working their land. She asked the nation to consider the plight simmering under Mournwold hillsides. The Pride Assembly agreed. We are not afraid of the dry field we know will never go away. We are not afraid of the lit match either. We know slash-and-burn well; a swiddon is a rich field for new growth. So we stand with the miners of the Mourn, recognise their Pride, and their right to a voice. It is time the Marches did as we always do; face hard questions head on, and take the difficult first step to change.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (68-30)
* '''Notes:''' References the controversial, ongoing efforts of the the miners of Mournwold to be enfranchised, as discussed in the '''[[Rebels_and_loyalists#Ore_Hills_Rebels|Rebels and loyalists]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 138===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Paulus Adelaar von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Citizens of the League! Our siblings-in-Liberty, the Gemeinwesen, the Commonwealth, battle the slaving Princes of Jarm. We, the assembled Bishops of the League exhort you to welcome Commonwealth visitors in our cities, cafes, and salons. Citizens! Commonwealth and Empire, we each home our own wars to fight against the slavers - Plenum or Principalities - and Virtue & Common Good differ profoundly, but here and now let us build up the Tower of our Friendship on the rock that is Liberty.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (250-20)
* '''Notes:''' This appears to be a clear statement exhorting the people of the League to welcome visitors from the [[Commonwealth]], as proposed in the '''[[According_to_principle#And_Finally...|According to principle]]''' wind of fortune.

===Judgement 140===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Kasimir Vukovitch von Temeschwar
* '''Judgement:''' Cults of Agramant are spread in a web across the Empire, lauding the taste and euphoria of eating human flesh. They are not <u>all</u> blood-soaked pawns, gnawing on bones. Some are gourmet butchers or members of invite-only secret dinner clubs. They are eloquent, and they are laughing at us. The first sect in the network, the hub, is burrowed into the flesh of Holberg like a tick and using the casual attitude and jokes about "special sausage" to practice their vile ways right under our noses. We must dig this sect out like the ticks they are, with fire, blade and ruthless, relentless vigilance.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (152-0)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the ongoing machinations of [[Agramant]]

===Judgement 142===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Eirlys Ashes Blaze
* '''Judgement:''' The Druj are an enemy of everything the Navarr strive to achieve. They block our path to the vallorn, torment the septs who might walk the Way, and bring ruin to every land they touch. For as long as they endure, our Ambition is shackled, our Vigilance is tested, and our Loyalty strained. The Navarr must commit to the destruction of the Druj - not out of hatred or vengeance, but out of Virtue. Let our actions be guided by Courage and Wisdom as we close the front in the east, liberate the oppressed, and clear the way to finally end the vallorn. The road forward leads through the Druj. It's time we found the Courage to commit - and take the steps.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (278-10)

===Judgement 143===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Yrkja Riansson
* '''Judgement:''' People of Wintermark, words have always been our weapons. Imperial law has always been our law. The law is our blade, our cudgel, and our shield. Hold fast to our traditions. No blood shed for bloodshed's sake.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (236-0)

===Judgement 144===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Laudine du Lac
* '''Judgement:''' The Earl of the Grove respects love and glory, but he does not mention the virtues. Wisdom teaches us that all knowledge is incomplete and this assembly invites the earl or his representatives to discuss the virtues and learn from each other.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (146-58)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[Legendary_beasts#Sphinxes_and_Manticores|manticore]] known as the Earl of the Groves, as discussed in the '''[[Hard_to_find#The_Earl_of_the_Groves|Hard to find]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 145===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Abreya De Lagriffe
* '''Judgement:''' A legal act and a virtuous act are distinct. An illegal act undertaken with virtuous intent, though it may be condemned by the Senate, should not be condemned by the Synod. It is the Senate's purview to prosecute those who breach the law, it is the Synod's purview to celebrate those who champion the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (112-88)
* '''Notes:''' Seems to contribute to ongoing discussions around Imperial law, including the [[judgement]] of [[Condemnation]], and the practice of [[Member_of_the_Synod#Clemency|Clemency]].

===Judgement 149===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Sindri
* '''Judgement:''' Gisli, named "The Provider" for his Prosperity in replenishing the warchest of Wintermark with herbs after it had run dry, is a Hero and is therefore recognised as such by this Assembly. For feeding the Thule, ending their starvation and saving countless lives. For building cultural and academic bridges with the Commonwealth to share their knowledge with the Empire. For providing substantial liao to Axos, to bring them closer to the Way. For participating in every raid against slaver nations to break the chains of slavery. We are Proud to enter Gisli, the Provider, to the Chronicle of Heroes.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (222-28)
* '''Notes:''' Gisli the Provider has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle of Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]]

===Judgement 150===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Raewyn Eternal
* '''Judgement:''' Citizens of Therunin, hear your guides. The Druj have come. If you cannot fight, seek immediate refuge with our Imperial neighbours. Highguard, Urizen, and Dawn have thrown their doors open for us. If you can fight, stay and harass the druj with stealth, ambush and the arts of guerilla warfare we are so adept at. All refuge offered to Navarri is extended to our oathsworn siblings of the Great Forest Orcs, bound in blood and ink as we are.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (336-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war. See also [[#Judgement 118|Judgement 118]].

===Judgement 151===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Fredegar Bloodmouth
* '''Judgement:''' Hue and cry! They come from the deep, they prey indiscriminately, and they are very hard to kill. Citizens of the Marches, especially any living or with business on the coast of the Gullet, do not attempt to interact with the so-called "Husks of the Deep". Do not travel to the coast, do not travel along if you are on the coast, and seek the assistance of both shatter magician and a chirurgeon if you come into contact. Furthermore, this assembly directs the beaters to beat the bounds of the gullet's coast, offering assistance to all those needing it and dealing with the husks with poisons and venom if only absolutely necessary, as there is evidence they are still alive.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (118-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the strange husks sighted following the earthquake in the Gullet, as discussed in the '''[[Rumblings in the Gullet]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 153===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker
* '''Judgement:''' Sacrifice is the soul, heart and blood of Navarr. We bleed, grieve and stand tall for the choices we make. But we are not the only ones who sacrifice, with the nation of Varushka losing its children for Therunin. Alderai the Fair and all warriors of the Iron Helms sacrificed all. We honour their sacrifice and welcome all who stood with us to our hearths forever. In sacrifice we grieve, in courage we remember.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (289-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the loss of the [[Iron Helms]] in [[Therunin]], as discussed in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war

===Judgement 154===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Bartholomew Lynes
* '''Judgement:''' The assembly notes with interest the proposals and propositions of Baas Sterner of the Coalition of Stone and Struggle. Obviously the citizens of the League will make their own minds as to whether to invite the Strugglers into their cities, however for what it is worth the Assembly's position is that we should enthusiastically welcome them. Key to Prosperity is knowing the value of your own work, discussion with the Strugglers can only help in that endeavour for those labourers working on the roads. The price of labour may change or it may not, depending on the strength of the arguments at play - but the negotiation should be as well informed as possible. We would be interested to see what further proposals the Baas may present, and also would suggest that discourse between themselves and the Sodality of the Riding Tide would be of mutual benefit.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (154-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the offer made by ''Baas Sterner'' to provide labour for [[Construct Curstag's Way|Curstag's Way]] in return for access to the workers of League [[business|businesses]], as discussed in the '''[[Hammers_and_boxes#Labour|Hammers and boxes]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 155===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Rhesa
* '''Judgement:''' The hostels of Virtues Rest were built as inspirational sites of pilgrimage and the white roads were built to allow people to easily travel to the hostels. Whether the hostels rest pilgrims or those fighting our wars doesn't change their inspiration, or their symbol as a beacon of the Way. We call to the people to remind them that structures are both functional and inspirational and can support the rest and recovery of both body and soul.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (428-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[Remodel Virtue's Rest|remodelling]] of [[Bastion#Virtue's_Rest|Virtue's Rest]], as discussed in the '''[[The_war_of_thorns_and_flowers#Salvation_of_Souls|The war of thorns and flowers]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 156===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Jared of the Suns of Couros
* '''Judgement:''' Prepare for malice, yet thwart malice before it strikes against you. Highborn! The Druj are once again at our borders. We must defend the Reikos-Therunin border and make ready to march as a tide of virtue to wash away the horrors of the Druj. Remember exile!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (438-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war

===Judgement 157===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Cynerik
* '''Judgement:''' The Wintemark Assembly supports Cormack Dun in his ambition to found a school for artisans, named "Runesmiths Caution". We call upon the faithful to seek opportunities that the school may further build up our artisans and find better ways to work so that they may advance the Runesmiths Law. Wayland "Runesmiths Caution" was an artisan who broke his oath, sharing the secrets of Runesmiths law outside the nation. The school will teach winterfolk runelore and the story of Wayland as a cautionary tale.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (230-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the powerful ''geas'' which binds those who study [[Wintermark_economic_interests#Runesmith's_Law|Runesmith's Law]]

===Judgement 158===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Cadoc Thornwatch
* '''Judgement:''' The Navarr National Assembly recognises the unease cause by the Last Battle wayhouse and the concern of the Karass. We encourage Navarr who visit or pass through the Bleaks to make clear - by action and word - that this wayhouse stands against the Druj, not the Karass. Trade fairly, build bridges. The Last Battle was built to fight the vallorn and protect the east. Let all who dwell nearby know this is our purpose.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (282-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the wayhouse built in [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|the Bleaks]] and the response of the Karass sept, as discussed in the '''[[Hard_to_find#Who_Would_Dare_To_Go|Hard to find]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 160===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Mikal the Seeker
* '''Judgement:''' Stormcrows of Wintermark. The Hero SAAVI, thrice-named SHATTERSPEAR, QUIVERBUTT, and HEROES' CHAMPION should be recognised for her great heroic deeds in prusance of the virtues and the collective Pride of Wintermark. Fierce though she was in battle, and wise though she was a stormcrow to her hall, it is her initiating of the Chronicle of Heroes, and her reverence to tending the rites of the Tree of Names that bear exceptional recognition. Let our grandchildren's grandchildren be as inspired by SAAVI as we are, let her name be entered in the CHRONICLE OF HEROES.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (120-0)
* '''Notes:''' Adding a name to the [[Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]] requires a greater majority.

===Judgement 162===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Damascius
* '''Judgement:''' Let the call ring clear from the mountains - Morrow, Urizen, throw open the spires and citadels to our siblings of Therunin. Healers, priests, mages - tend our Navarr and Great Forest Orc comrades. Let them rest, recover, join us at the borders and wait. Therunin is not abandoned. In strength, in Virtue, in time, we will return.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (172-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war

===Judgement 163===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Arianwen Thornfield
* '''Judgement:''' Citizens of Therunin, we are not accepting defeat but adapting our strategy and will try anew when the time is right. I call upon fellow courage priests to travel to the refugees on the borders to bolster their courage against the fear and hatred so readily wielded by the Druj. In strength, in virtue, and in time, we will return.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (120-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war

===Judgement 164===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Delara i Fijadoz
* '''Judgement:''' The Assembly of the Way recognise the Recogniser Sect of the Printers Guild and thank them for taking up the missed opportunity to create the Mistress of Monuments for the betterment of the Empire, and recognise them for their prosperity in funding the position.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (110-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the [[Mistress of Monuments]], a title that can commission [[edifice|edifices]] smaller than ten wains, originally suggested in the '''[[Forwards_and_Rewards#Small_Monuments|Forwards and Rewards]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 165===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Hildelith Kaukosdottir
* '''Judgement:''' The Loyalty Assembly recognise Veikko Bondforger as our <u>Oathkeeper</u>. They are asked to record oaths sworn into the Book of Oaths and keep those who swear these oaths to their word.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (232-0)
* '''Notes:''' Veikko Bondforger is a former Cardinal of Loyalty

===Judgement 166===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Gwenllain Heart's End
* '''Judgement:''' Guides of Navarr. Urizen, Dawn and Highguard have thrown open their doors to the Great Forest orc and Navarr reguees of Therunin. Go to our displaced peoples, bolster their spirits and show them their Dance is not over! Tend their souls and in Virtue drive out the Fear and Hatred to Druj so readily offer. In strength, in virtue, and in time, we <u>WILL</u> RETURN.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (374-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing conquest of Therunin by the Druj, as discussed most recently in the '''[[Under eastern skies]]''' wind of war

===Judgement 168===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lepidina
* '''Judgement:''' The Empire is considering driving a large herd of cattle to Mareave. If they do so it will pass through Spiral not this season, but next. In vigilance, we should consider our experiences with livestock in the vicinity of the Black Plateau to anticipate problems and propose solutions before they get there.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (168-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the potential danger of leading cattle through the [[Black Plateau]] as part of a cattle drive, as discussed in the '''[[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drive|Million miles of water]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 169===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Bryce the Hare
* '''Judgement:''' Vigilance demands we seek to eliminate threats before they strike and disregard those that choose not to take action. Cultists of Agramant mock and deride the Empire's treatment of cannibalism, they feel empowered to act without fear because we continue to endorse it. The Vigilance Assembly urges the Senate to make cannibalism illegal, and let the virtue of its practitioners be challenged.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (279-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing machinations of [[Agramant]]

===Judgement 170===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Aristeia Starchaser
* '''Judgement:''' The stars, their tuplas, and associated cultists have been, over the past two years, increasingly able to affect the souls of those who interact with the stars - willingly or not. I urge all priests to be like starlight and use the ceremony of insight to check the souls of those who might have been affected by star interactions. The Wanderer has taken souls, preventing them from entering the Labyrinth. An Urizen soul has had a strength five spirit on it following a transformation involving the Lock and the Door combined. And this summit, Claw cultists have been able to leave the Mark of the Claw on those they interacted with. Be Vigilant astronomancers. Include your priests as you will need them now.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (858-0)
* '''Notes:''' A discussion of the magical tradition of [[Astronomancy]], and potential spiritual threats related to it.

===Judgement 172===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' People of Redoubt, prepare for storms. The cultists of Siakha bring blood and lightning; we must hold against them. Secure your spires, citadels, and temples. If you need to leave, your fellows in Zenith, Morrow, and Spiral. Be Vigilant, be Proud, be Loyal.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (230-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the storms unleashed by the Children of Wrecks on [[Redoubt]], as alluded to in the '''[[387YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Foam_and_Floods_(Redoubt)|Spring Equinox 387YE]]''' interlude

===Judgement 173===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Asier i Elia i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' Freeborn of Kahraman and Segura, the Lasambrians are at our borders: all knowledge is incomplete and yet we must act, ready to respond to what may be. Be prepared, be vigilant, cleave to your Courage and take strength from the Loyalty that binds us as a people, and indeed an Empire, together!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (64-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the Lasambrians, who have engaged in ongoing treaty negotiations with the Empire, as most recently discussed in the '''[[So far so fast]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 178===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Slavomira Koslov
* '''Judgement:''' We call to action priests to assist in clearing the haunted Spires of Solokha in Axos with the aims of aiding our ally and fostering relations in virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (124-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the efforts to cleanse the ruins of Solokha, as discussed in the '''[[It_never_happened#Cleansing_the_Ruins|It never happened]]''' wind of fortune. As the mandate - [[#Judgement_25|Judgement 25]] - did not achieve a greater majority, it is not possible for Varushkan congregation owners to contribute towards cleansing the ruins directly.

===Judgement 181===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Creighton Blackewater
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Marcher Assembly, exalt the virtue of Gerraint Black, Guardian of the Prosperity of Afal. He courageously stood against overwhelming numbers of Agramant cultists, protected the Copse of the Bone Birch regio, and saved the Ashill militia. The devastating strength of his Summer mastery consumed both him and the attackers in a ball of Summer fire, leaving only his staff behind. Gerraint Black we exalt thee.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (86-0)

===Judgement 182===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Velko Perunovich Razoradze
* '''Judgement:''' After a warning from Wintermark that animals are attacking citizens and that this madness may spread to Varushka, we call upon the inspiration of Zoria to use our wisdom to ask what the right question is and whether this has happened before.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (106-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing peculiarity of beasts attacking, as discussed in the '''[[Patterns_of_fairytales#Animal_Magic?|Patterns of fairytales]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 184===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Kennett the Mummer
* '''Judgement:''' Hue and cry! Hue and cry! There is a cult at large across the Empire dedicated to the constellation of the Claw. Their actions rouse animals to attack, so watch your livestock. Their symbol is claw marks and blood drops. Please refer developments in this case to Duncan of Ashill. Kennett is busy with other important matters.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (106-0)
* '''Notes:''' Assigns the ongoing peculiarity of beasts attacking, as discussed in the '''[[Patterns_of_fairytales#Animal_Magic?|Patterns of fairytales]]''' wind of fortune, to a cult of [[the Claw]]

===Judgement 189===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Kish of the Flame Beneath the Earth
* '''Judgement:''' Vigilance demands we be alert to all dangers; within and without. The Archmage of Spring has reported that Siakha will attack Necropolis next season. In Vigilance we must mobilise to defend our land and protect our people from the Children of Wrecks. Do not fear to act; only be ashamed by inaction.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (506-0)
* '''Notes:''' Raises a warning that the Children of Wrecks will attack [[Necropolis]]

===Judgement 190===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Hembeneth i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' The Brass Coast National Assembly believe our senatorial elections could be made more prosperous if they were adjusted to ensure that all proffered bids were considered spent by the nation and unreturnable. The intended effect of this would be; that more people would find the elections, and the pursuit of their ambitions, more accessible and the full proceeds of the elections to bolster the coast.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (74-8)
* '''Notes:''' Currently, only the winning bids in the [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership#Leading_a_territory|elections]] for Freeborn Senators are collected and passed into the care of [[Brass Coast egregore|Dust, Flame, and Glass]]

===Judgement 191===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Lia Adelaar
* '''Judgement:''' Road tolls simply and cleverly support Navarr Ambitions against the vallorn. Our League Pride calls us to follow - through on our great roads. Our Prosperity leads us to call our sister nations to join us or find contributions of equivalent magnitude.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (112-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the recent suggestion of applying tolls to various roads across the Empire, as discussed in the '''[[The_war_of_thorns_and_flowers#For_Whom_The_Road_Tolls|The war of thorns and flowers]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 192===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tongs Brossa de Tassato Regario
* '''Judgement:''' Sarvos be alert! <u>Maurizia Spada di Sarvos</u> is a traitor allied with the <u>Children of Wrecks</u>. She has plans to <u>raid and plunder</u> Sarvos. Our Ambition for the strength of Sarvos demands that you protect your city!!!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (106-0)
* '''Notes:''' ''Maurizia Spada di Sarvos'' is one of the known traitors who joined the Children of Wrecks and survived the Battle of Visten Head, as discussed in the '''[[On_southern_sands#Objective:_Eliminate_the_traitors|On southern sands]]'''

===Judgement 194===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Anatloij Paukov Zorkin
* '''Judgement:''' Citizens of the northwest, the north, and the west. The constellation of the Claw is inciting wild animals to unnatural violence. Be vigilant! Do not wander thoughtlessly through natural landscapes you have previously known to be safe.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (228-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing peculiarity of beasts attacking, as discussed in the '''[[Patterns_of_fairytales#Animal_Magic?|Patterns of fairytales]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 196===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' The Council of Nine directs the Silent Bell to investigate Imperial farms, forests, or mana sites touched by the malign influence of Yaw'nagrah and to report on the Imperial citizens who have taken these illegal boons in the following nations: Marches, Varushka, Urizen, and Navarr
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (9-0)
* '''Notes:''' Instructs the Silent Bell to seek out those who have accepted the boons of [[Yaw'nagrah]], as discussed in the [[Gifts_of_a_green_mother#Law_Amid_Chaos|Gifts of a green mother]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 197===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Viviane Barossa
* '''Judgement:''' I carry a hallow of understanding, to try being Axos to the Way, one tree at a time. In penance for my lack of vigilance, as my Assembly requires and requests, I commit to supporting the call to guard and watch the priests who exorcise Solokha. I do this with my hands in the fire. I pay the price for my ambition.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (9-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing crisis of faith around cardinals swearing an oath to carry an item hallowed with an aura of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Peace|Peace]], as discussed in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 199===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Kaspar Yakovitch von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Citizens of the League! Two hundred and fifty years have passed since Holberg joined the Empire - let us celebrate! We announce a grand celebration in Holberg, culminating in a parade displaying many artefacts of history loaned by the Printer's Guild Museum of Wonders, including the Ring of Holberg.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (220-0)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the 250 year celebration of [[Holberg]] joining the Empire, which is also discussed in several recent winds of fortune.

===Judgement 200===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Sian Eternal
* '''Judgement:''' <u>Citizens be alert!</u> The traitor Ioan Bloodstride is allied with the children of wrecks, and will be coming to wreck and plunder our homes. Protect our people! Be vigilant against this threat!
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (300-0)
* '''Notes:''' ''Ioan Bloodstride'' is one of the known traitors who joined the Children of Wrecks and survived the Battle of Visten Head, as discussed in the '''[[On_southern_sands#Objective:_Eliminate_the_traitors|On southern sands]]'''

===Judgement 201===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' The Grand Inspiration of the Way remains the greatest opportunity to spread the Way of Virtue beyond our borders, by inspiring pilgrims from all over the world. The Assembly of Nine applauds the efforts of those who have contributed so far, and encourages further commitment wherever possible. The Way uplifts us all. Let us uplift the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (6-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing discussion around the place of the [[Construct Grand Inspiration of the Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]], as discussed in the '''[[Pride_and_paragons#The_Grand_Inspiration|Pride and paragons]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 202===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' I, Silas of the Cenotaph, in according to my oath to the Wisdom Assembly, with <u>support</u> from my Assembly carried a false hallowing to Peace. Due to this we now know Peace is not Apathy, in the defence of this our Way we can now, by asking the right question, shore up our defence.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (6-0)
* '''Notes:''' References the ongoing crisis of faith around cardinals swearing an oath to carry an item hallowed with an aura of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Peace|Peace]], as discussed in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 203===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Felix Saltspire
* '''Judgement:''' Vigilance demands we be alert to all dangers; within and without. The Archmage of Spring has reported that Siakha will attack Necropolis next season. In Vigilance we must mobilise to defend our land and protect our people from the Children of Wrecks.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (178-0)
* '''Notes:''' Raises a warning that the Children of Wrecks will attack [[Necropolis]]

===Judgement 204===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Gralka
* '''Judgement:''' Bleak was the battle that fought through the valley as a vivid black sunset cast the plateau's shadow over us all. So many lost, that have remained silent, still, dead. Names lost in the malaise of Solen's Doubt and war. To who you would build in this place and wipe clean wars blood face. We the Imperial Orc National Assembly ask that you the builders let us send our bonetenders to reclaim the remains of our fallen and chart their names or marker sin the bricks of the dam.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (56-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the plan to establish a dam in [[Spiral]], as discussed in the '''[[Million_miles_of_water#The_Way_Less_Taken|Million miles of water]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 206===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Miroslav Temnavoda
* '''Judgement:''' Alert! The traitor Zavetta Voglanova is allied with the Children of Wrecks, and will be bringing storm and plunder to our lands. We are stronger than any traitor - we will defend our homes.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (338-0)
* '''Notes:''' '' Zavetta Voglavnova'' is one of the known traitors who joined the Children of Wrecks and survived the Battle of Visten Head, as discussed in the '''[[On_southern_sands#Objective:_Eliminate_the_traitors|On southern sands]]'''

===Judgement 207===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Nisha Strascovich
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Varushkan Assembly, support the creation of a reservoir in Spiral on the graves of fallen Varushkan soldiers. We request that their deeds be recognised and wardings placed on any dams involved.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (338-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the plan to establish a dam in [[Spiral]], as discussed in the '''[[Million_miles_of_water#The_Way_Less_Taken|Million miles of water]]''' wind of fortune

===Judgement 208===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Vaclav Mladenovich Kosti
* '''Judgement:''' Varushkan Vigilance prevails. We have worked our magics and can confirm that Empress Vesna has no bonds, loyalties or association with the eternal known as Blood on Snow.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (338-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to ongoing discussions of the influence of [[Agramant]] within the Empire, and accusations levied at [[the Throne]].

==Mandate==
Nine [[mandate|mandates]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 20===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Lochias
* '''Judgement:''' Major Benson knew that the reward for a good job is more work, and his inspiration teaches us to be alert to danger before it strikes. We send Lochias of the Scarlet Guard with 25 doses of liao to urge people to learn more about the sects of Axos and the ruins of Solokha
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (384-0)
* '''Enacted:'''

===Judgement 25===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth
* '''Judgement:''' These souls trapped in Solokha are an anathema to the Way and should be free to traverse the labyrinth and be reborn. We send Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth with 25 doses of liao to encourage Imperial priests to support the exorcists of Axos in cleansing the haunted ruin of its taint. The need to help those trapped souls to reach the Labyrinth outweighs the risks of cooperating with the blasphemous and heretical priests of Axos.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1384-78)
* '''Enacted:'''
* '''Notes:''' This mandate was in competition with [[#Judgement 43|Judgement 43]]

===Judgement 26===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Estella Lucati
* '''Judgement:''' Nothing great is without cost. We send Estella Lucati with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Atrium of Golden Light in the Capodomus Cathedral to Ambition. No price is too high to realise our dreams.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1194-114)
* '''Enacted:'''

===Judgement 30===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' The Way tells us that no-one may demand your loyalty and obedience to their rule. We send Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra with 25 doses of liao to teach the Asaveans to abandon those who have done nothing to deserve their Loyalty
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (364-32)
* '''Enacted:'''

===Judgement 34===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Nathair Autumngale
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom is not always knowing the answer. We send Nathair Autumngale with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Great Library of Hacynian to Wisdom. Let us embrace the Silence and the Song and search for the right question in the space between Night and Day.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1455-36)
* '''Enacted:'''

===Judgement 43===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Neala Blackhawk
* '''Judgement:''' These souls trapped in Solokha are an anathema to the Way and should be free to traverse the labyrinth and be reborn. We send Neala Blackhawk with 25 doses of liao to encourage Imperial priests to support the exorcists of Axos in cleansing the haunted ruin of its taint. The need to help those trapped souls to reach the Labyrinth outweighs the risks of cooperating with the blasphemous and heretical priests of Axos.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at request of raising priest (432-510)
* '''Notes:''' This mandate was in competition with [[#Judgement 25|Judgement 25]]

===Judgement 127===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Ira Ashes Blaze
* '''Judgement:''' Berechiah saw the wickedness that lurked like a canker in beating hearts. His inspiration teaches us that the façade of righteousness is often cracked. We send Ira Ashes Blaze with 25 doses of liao to watch those travelling to Solokha and make a full accounting of them so that we might uncover those who embrace wickedness.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (312-38)
* '''Enacted:'''

===Judgement 171===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Asteria of Ocean Kite’s Roost
* '''Judgement:''' We prepare for malice, but must always thwart malice before it strikes against you. We send Asteria of Ocean Kite’s Roost with 25 liao to Astolat to urge all vigilant citizens to seek out threats and drag them into the light. Of particular note are cults of Blood on Snow
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (250-0)
* '''Enacted:'''
* '''Notes:''' As detailed in the '''[[Knocking_on_every_door#Shine_a_Light|Knocking on every door]]''' wind of fortune, this encourages the Vigilant to travel to Astolat and work with pilgrims there to root out threats.

===Judgement 205===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Ashborn Atla
* '''Judgement:''' Our people know the worth of all things. This assembly sends Ashborn Atla with 25 doses if liao to urge the Sunstorm sept to find a way to help in Feroz. Let us show them what this help was worth to us and rebuild stronger.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}}
* '''Enacted:'''
* '''Notes:''' Asks the [[Sunstorm]] sept to offer aid in [[Feroz]], rather than [[Mareave]], as detailed in the '''[[Million_miles_of_water#A_New_Qanat|Million miles of water]]''' wind of fortune.

==Writ of Excommunication==
One [[Writ of Excommunication]] was presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 7===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Claude Deeds
* '''Judgement:''' Archavion Wolfborn's deeds are sickening and abhorrent - he must face the Writ of Excommunication, Synod's most severe judgement. The General illegally ordered the mass murder of all Rahvin Orcs who defended their home, The Fangs. Rahvin are Foreigners, staunch enemies of the Druj: former slaves, who Courageously freed themselves. Archavion spat in Synod's face: his National Assembly voted the Rahvin should not be attacked. He claims they were a grave threat. This is a lie, and he knows it. His orders reek of False Virtues. For Fear and Hatred he urged an entire army on to vile acts in the Barrens. It is an outrage to our Faith. He has done the Druj's work for them. Synod cannot permit a liar corrupted by Fear and Hatred to order our soldiers to murder the Courageous, then call himself Vigilant to cover his tracks. Pass this Writ, stripping him of the right to bear any Imperial title. Let he who has endangered so many now be Vigilant for his own soul.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (2270-224)

==Revocation==
Six [[revocation|revocations]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 27===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Earl Tegwen Berinore
* '''Judgement:''' Dawn will not stand with a general that, in our Emperor's words, turned to lawlessness because he lacked the skill to execute his vision any other way. He has hurt our nation in his weakness. The Dawnish Assembly revokes Archavion Wolfborne from General of the Gryphon's Pride for leading his army against the Rahvin, an orc sept of the Barrens, foreigners protected under and afforded the benefits of Imperial law.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (316-20)

===Judgement 51===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Callista of the Dark Shard
* '''Judgement:''' Viviane Barossa de Coeurdefer, Cardinal of Ambition, willingly and knowingly took upon herself a hallowed object of the false virtue of "understanding" (also known as peace). They refuse to set this aside for a year. A cardinal is an example of Virtue to, and for, the Empire, and as such Viviane has shown themself to set a dangerous example, that we should condemn and revoke.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (812-288)
* '''Notes:''' Viviane Barossa de Coeurdefer resigned before this judgement closed

===Judgement 67===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Emmeline Weaver
* '''Judgement:''' Zoran Orzel fucked up. Whether by Malice, Lies, Folly, or Carelessness, General Zoran De Orzel of Dawn insisted to the Military Council that the Druj would retreat from Therunin this season, as has been attested by multiple Generals. This information was directly in contradiction to that given to Zoran by the Imperial Seer Jorma Steelhail, who made clear to Zoran that the Druj intended to press their attack. This failure of Vigilance has cost the Empire two loyal armies, the Iron Helms and Isaella's Dance, and I call upon the General Assembly to Revoke Zoran De Orzel before he can fuck up any more campaigns.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1222-328)

===Judgement 120===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kazimir Syrota Molchan
* '''Judgement:''' Captain Bernard Dugdale needs to be removed as Imperial Spymaster. Evidence should be presented rather than baseless accusations made. Produce the evidence, step down, or be removed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1162-125)

===Judgement 152===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Isaellla Dancewalker
* '''Judgement:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker has served our nation for many years. Now it is his time to find a new place in the Dance. By his own admission his oaths are in conflict and his Loyalties are divided, weighing on his soul. The burden of leadership is one we as Navarr gift to our chosen. We choose who we follow. Now, for his sake, out of Loyalty and love, we must choose not to follow Rhisiart and free him. Let the black Thorns find a new General, and him virtue anew.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (136-172)

===Judgement 180===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Skywise Tulva
* '''Judgement:''' We revoke MemoryKeeper Ikhan's position as Open Hand of the Ancestors. This title was appointed without the input of the majority of our Assembly. Let us correct this.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (48-0)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement has been interpreted as revoking MemoryKeeper Ikahn from the title of [[Guide to the Lost]]

==Inquisition==
Twenty one [[inquisition|inquistions]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 32===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Warsmith the Iron Way
* '''Judgement:''' I call Lodwick Hardin of Hyrst Hall to Inquisition. Last season they sent their military unit to the Barrens to support the traitor General Archavion Wolfborne in an attempt to slaughter the Rahvin. Now they must answer why. The Inquisition will take place at The Fellowship of the Broken Willow's camp in Wintermark at 10:00pm on Friday
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (56-0)

===Judgement 41===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' As Imperial Inquisitor, I call Archavion Wolfborne to defend his actions as General of the Gryphon's Pride. 5pm Saturday. Orzel camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Imperial Inquisitor]]

===Judgement 84===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' Dag Kinad. You have served as my proxy for the duration of the year and performed your first inquisition. Now we shall test what you have learned. Saturday at 12 noon. Varushkan Hearth.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]]

===Judgement 88===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Oleander Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' I call to inquisition Farrenthar Shattersong, former general of the Quiet Step, on the events leading to the Throne being their replacement. This will be held at 5pm, Saturday of this summit, at either Ashwood Camp or a suitable location of their choosing. I seek to bring clarity in the face of rumour, and ensure that action is taken that may be needed.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (292-0)

===Judgement 91===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Halkyon of the Myriad Stream
* '''Judgement:''' Letho Southshore took a key role in the reckoning between Urizen and the League after the reassignment of Spiral. I call him to inquisition so that the truth of this matter may be illuminated and the virtue of his actions accounted for.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (198-0)

===Judgement 101===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Vasili, Pride of Ossium
* '''Judgement:''' I call Empress Vesna to Inquisition at 11am on Saturday of the Winter Summit in the Varuhskan National tent. We will discuss their first year on the throne, their plans, their actions, and their plans for the next year. This time and place has been agreed in advance.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (715-38)

===Judgement 102===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Darian Numbers
* '''Judgement:''' Call Little Lorenzo to inquisition to discuss his claims of Prosperity at 12:00 Saturday in the Crimson Reapers camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (138-0)

===Judgement 106===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' I call Urvakki of Sigehold Hall to inquisition at Sigehold at 17:00 Saturday of the Winter summit. This is to discuss the matter of their actions and virtues of the past, their skein now and moving forward to reknit as they move.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (106-0)

===Judgement 108===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Vauraus "Prosperity's Forge" Korppitkotka
* '''Judgement:''' I call Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar, Senator for Temeschwar, to inquisition at 8pm on the Saturday of the Winter Solstice 386YE in the Forge regarding their works in Temeschwar, their debts and taking 200 thrones from the Senate for a commission that they did not have. Bring your ledger.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]]

===Judgement 133===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' I call Gaelen Embercast to inquisition, to discuss his actions in leading his assembly. 11am, Sunday, the Hub
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (644-22)

===Judgement 136===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Kasjay
* '''Judgement:''' I Kasjay call Halkyon to inquisition on Saturday Spring 387 at 12:00 in the camp of the Dark Shard. This is to assess their personal virtue and their virtue founding the Spiral Council
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (168-0)

===Judgement 141===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Adelorna Ordraig
* '''Judgement:''' Faith Felbourne has been found through the power of insight to possess a Heretical Aura of Freedom. I thereby call her to inquisition, the timing of which yet to be agreed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (102-12)

===Judgement 148===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Earl of Fools
* '''Judgement:''' In matters of Rumour against the Throne, THE EARL OF FOOLS invites DUGDALE, IMPERIAL SPYMASTER, to inquisition in the GLORY SQUARE at 10pm Saturday.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (668-10)

===Judgement 159===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' As Arcane Inquisitor, I call Arcane Envoy Bella Vicente to Inquisition at 2pm Saturday of the Spring Equinox, at the Vicente tent.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Arcane Inquisitor]]

===Judgement 167===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Maja Świętosława Przewałski
* '''Judgement:''' Troyan Dabroceich Strascovitch is called to inquisition at 11am Saturday of the Spring summit to discuss their actions, visions, and ambitions as senator of Miekarova
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (280-0)

===Judgement 176===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Martin Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' Alastair of Esther's Sanctum is called to inquisition at 1:30PM Sunday, at the Hub. His hasty condemnation without inquisition caused much trouble and it may have been averted with a timely inquisition. We have agreed an ambition to see malign auras dealt with quickly and cleanly. Let us shine the lamp of vigilance on the past, and guide our way to doing better with the next threat.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (912-40)

===Judgement 185===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' I call Kaisa Determination of Ice to inquisition Saturday 13:00 outside Military Council tent Spring 387. This is to discuss matters of personal courage and not concerning their military matters at this time.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]]

===Judgement 193===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Heilyn Bronwen's Rest
* '''Judgement:''' As Basilisk of the Bourse, I call Bartimeus to inquisition at the Zenith Ascendant camp, 11am Sunday of this summit, as previously arranged.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Basilisk of the Bourse]]

===Judgement 210===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Azir i Shartha i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' As Imperial Magus, <u>Æsa Sigeling</u> has for three years been a major mover in the great bodies of state. She is also an Ambition dedicant. In that time, Æsa has never been inquisited. I call Æsa to inquisition at a time and place to be arranged, to examine her virtue and actions within that position.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]]

===Judgement 211===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Maximillian
* '''Judgement:''' As Inquisitor of the Way I call Alcuin of Auric Horizon to Inquisition for preaching the False Virtues of Anarchy and Peace. At a time and place to be decided at the gathering of Anvil for Spring 387YE
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of the Way]]

===Judgement 212===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Kellin Embercast
* '''Judgement:''' The founding of the Vallorn Guard is a triumph for our Empire. However, its virtue must be unquestionable. By asking its founding members to swear an oath of which they had no prior knowledge, Percival Summersong risked compelling their loyalty. I call Percival to Inquisition at the coming Spring summit, to determine whether this was a lapse in judgement or a lapse in Virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld Automatically as [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]]

==Sanction==
Nineteen [[sanction|sanctions]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 22===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Leliel, Daughter of Armisael
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Luke's past life vision, and the associated experimental theology tied to it has been investigated. It has been determined that the strong Loyalty dedication that spontaneously manifested was more closely connected to the experiment. This was exacerbated by Luke's then-inexperience in Virtue. It would be best for Luke if this dedication was removed, and he served the following penance; to serve in each of the Virtue Assemblies for a season, until he can express on Virtue as his own.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (178-64)
* '''Notes:''' Whilst such a penance might be willingly taken on by Luke, there is no legal requirement for him to do so.

===Judgement 69===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lochias
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Following inquisition, this Assembly is satisfied that Iosef of Phoenix Reach has demonstrated four of the signs of the Exemplar: Legacy, Pilgrimage, Benevolence, Inspiration. The other signs are either Unproven or Unprovable at the current time. It is therefore a matter for the Virtue Assemblies to Recognise his achievements. (This judgement is an escalation of Judgement 168 at the Autumn Equinox 386. Notes from that Inquisition are available on request.)
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (194-58)

===Judgement 79===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Bakar: Your wisdom in choosing property over people with regards to the flooding of Madruga was called into question. You recognise you could have done more to seek out the Archmages of Night and Spring. Equally, you acted on the information you had to hand, having discussed it at length with your nation. You acknowledge you have more to learn. Given the endorsement of Conclave - I vindicate you.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (166-0)

===Judgement 81===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' You stand accused of Heresy, You stand accused of Blasphemy. You stand accused of being a corruption at the heart of the Synod. Silas of the Cenotaph - I vindicate you. You act in purest Wisdom. You believe yourself to be the only one who should be burdened with this responsibility - like a general forges the path to arm the Synod with knowledge. The lantern burns bright in you. You willingly lay your head upon the block - handing the sword to those around you. You are no fool, afraid of consequences. You will learn, and through your education you will enrich us all. Misstep and I will send your spirit to the labyrinth myself.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (148-0)

===Judgement 94===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Eevi of the Gadrai
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Thane Elgar Angusson's Inqusition revealed that while he demonstrates Loyalty and Prosperity to his hall, he has been careless with his words and actions. He has not upheld sworn agreements to meet with other halls and fight alongside them. He lacked Vigilance, neglecting to forge bonds with priests who could provide guidance. As penance, I charge Elgar with the following: 1) forge bonds with priests, one of Loyalty and one of Vigilance and seek guidance to deepen his understanding and application of the virtues 2) Tell the Wintermark Captains how they can make agreements with Kraken's Vanguard to fight alongside them to avoid future misunderstandings. I will check with him at the Summer Equinox to see what he has learnt.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (166-0)

===Judgement 103===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Warsmith the Iron Way
* '''Judgement - Castigation:''' Lodwick Hardin sent his soldiers to kill Rahvin and steal their mine. Not only did he show no virtue in this action, acting in fear and against Prosperity, but he showed very little understanding of the Virtues throughout the inquisition. There is no penance I could offer this man to help him beside going to the academy for a few years. It is time for the labyrinth to test his soul. May his next life be more virtuous. That won't be hard.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (90-0)

===Judgement 116===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Azir i Shartha
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' At the Autumn Equinox I inquisited Velasco i Guerra regarding the Asavea vote. I heard a tale of a new senator, who had insufficient time to consider, falling back on his lengthy experience as a general. There was a wisdom there - although a lack of understanding of the Way more generally. As is so often the case between the houses of state, I charge Velasco to speak to his priests more. I understand this is already his intention.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (98-10)

===Judgement 123===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Maximillian
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' Following inquisition I do not hold that the actions of INISKA ASHWOOD rise to the crimes of Blasphemy or Heresy. That their acceptance of the Hallowed Aura of the False Virtue of Peace was motivated not by an intent to denigrate the Way, but a Wise desire for deeper understanding of the formation of the Way and a Loyal push to improve the Empire. The failing was in not making those Virtuous Reasons clear as such I task Iniska to create and distribute a clear and in-depth publication outlining their reasoning for taking the Aura and an idea of what they have and could learn.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (94-46)

===Judgement 124===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Aster Aceae of House du Froste
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Last summit I carried out an inquisition of Lady Aisla Tamerlain at the behest of the late Lady Cecelia de Gauvin. The lady Aisla has time and again shared the tales of quieter courage in our nation, tales of love and glory that would have otherwise gone untold. In her own words "Art is as keen a weapon in our arsenal as any other" and her contributions to the glorious Richilde festival of the arts and her tenure as Voice of the Twin Roses have been testament to this. I move to vindicate Lady Ailsa for the virtuous work she has done for this nation and the Empire as a whole as it deserves to be recognised.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (184-0)

===Judgement 132===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarien
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' The assembly has heard Viviane's inquisition and her reasoning. While her original intentions in taking the hallow were not heretical, there were clear and catastrophic failures of vigilance. As penance she will: Make a statement in the Assembly of Nine denouncing "Peace". Join the vigilance assembly in ensuring the virtue of Imperial priests travelling to Axou. Step down as Cardinal of Ambition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (214-16)

===Judgement 146===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Syene
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Following the inquisition of General Sychar of Ebon's Hall, the inquisitee has been found vindicated of fault on the events during the battle at the Autumn Equinox 386YE
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (410-14)

===Judgement 147===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Neri
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' After the inquisition of Lex of Ebon's Hall, Lex has been found to be vindicated for his actions at the last summit
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (430-38)

===Judgement 177===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Gallows Koslov
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' The Priests of the Grimhold Guard recognise the virtuous actions of Kazimir. Through his Loyalty and Prosperity he saved many virtuous souls.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (118-0)

===Judgement 179===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Vasili, Pride of Ossium
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Following Inquisition of Empress Vesna, I find the Empress' goals, actions, and spirit to be virtuous. Their dedication to the prosperity and security of the Empire are to be lauded. Vesna has been marked with the Testimony "Prosperity's Hearth".
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (884-90)
* '''Notes:''' This judgement was marked as being an Exaltation. As that motion has yet to pass through the full scrutiny of Constitutional Court this judgement is considered to be vindication for now.

===Judgement 183===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Darian Numbers
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' During an Inquisition that both challenged Laughlan and his views of Prosperity and forced me to consider and grow my own understanding of Prosperity I found the following actions particularly prosperous:. His focus on spreading peoples understanding of trade and giving them confidence to go further on their own. His focus on spending not for self-promotion but to raise up the Prosperity across as much of the Empire as possible. His clarity that he enjoys the reward of his work and enjoying the virtue of his actions. If I could have a judgement of Escalation at this time I would have done. I urge Laughlan to further pursue his understanding of Prosperity to further his own virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (162-0)

===Judgement 186===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' I have followed up my previous inquisition of Rhisiart Dancewalker (Winter 385) where we discussed him reapplying himself to the Synod. He has done so every season for the past year and was able to talk of the virtue of his judgements and behaviour. His friends spoke highly of how he had inspired their virtue, the only questions remains about if Loyalty or Courage will have his dedication, but that is for him in the future.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (54-0)

===Judgement 187===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' I inquisited Urvakki about their skein and virtue earlier today. They still consider themselves frayed. We have talked of how they see themselves mending their skein including questions of Vigilance, Wisdom, and reflecting on choices. The Mark continues to support them and we will not abandon them, we build each other up.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (66-0)

===Judgement 188===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ilai
* '''Judgement - Vindication:''' Following the inquisition of Pariah of the Red Suns, he has been found to be <u>vindicated</u> for his actions at the last summit.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (318-0)

===Judgement 195===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Nekoda of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement - Penance:''' In conclusion of his inquisition, Exarch Mattheas of the Silent Tide acknowledged that the split in Highguard forces in battle at the Autumn Summit of 386 was due to the feud between his chapter and the Sentinel's Tower. For his part in allowing this feud to fester rather than seeking resolution, I give a Penance of taking concrete steps before the next Day of the Dead to close this rift to the point where cooperation is possible. Loyalty cannot be compelled, but moving past these conflicts allows us all to stand greater in Virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (258-138)

===Judgement 198===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Gaelen Embercast
* '''Judgement - Castigation:''' Pickers Goldleaf has died after admitting on the Senate floor to active treason with the Grendel. Selling army orders and Imperial rituals. Before he died he admitted to spreading falsehoods about the empress in order to undermine the Imperial state and encourage her execution to install himself as throne. In his capacity as Imperial Spymaster Bernard 'Whitecap' Dugdale perpetuated these falsehoods. Whether he is involved in this treason is a matter for the magistrates. The Assembly of Nine believes that this demonstrates a profound lack of vigilance and wisdom to the detriment of the Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (7-0)
* '''Notes:''' It is unclear which of Pickers Goldleaf and Bernard 'Whitecap' Dugdale is being [[Sanction#Castigation|castigated]] with this judgement.

==Recognition==
Four [[recognition|recognitions]] was presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice

===Judgement 4===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Jared of the Sentinel's Tower
* '''Judgement:''' We Recognise Ravadi Founder's Dance as an exemplar of Vigilance. ''Pilgrimage'' - They left Dawn to join the Founder's Dance Striding in Navarr, and walked the original path of the Exemplars Navarr and Thorn when the Trods were first created, guarding the world against the Vallorn threat with every step. ''Legacy'' - As Champion of Vigilance they were a driving force to forge mere titles into a cohesive organisation worthy to Inspire the Empire, several other Champions have pointed to this as Ravadi's Legacy. ''Benevolence'' - In sacrificing their dreams for a year to hunt down Bawn-Watch the Champion's Shield they would never hold, on behalf of every Champion that would follow after. ''Inspiration'' - Their Inspirational Vigilance was recognised by the Assembly in their appointment to Champion, and many priests of Vigilance will attest to this and their work that followed, seek us out.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1126-219)

===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Jedediah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise the leaders of the Ore Hills rebellion of 326YE; Esme Hooper, Mary Digger, Ezekial "Zeke" Boon, Henry Killinghall, Maggie John, and Tom John as Exemplars of Pride. ''Pilgrimage:'' Zeke Boon with Maggie and Tom John undertook pilgrimage to Bastion in 318YE. ''Salvation:'' They turned the miners away from descent into Hatred, uplifting them to Prideful action, saving their lives and souls. ''Benevolence:'' They acted to prevent the starvation of the miners of Ore Hills, leading the Rebellion to take the supplies needed. ''Legacy:'' The songs of the Ore Hills, the Scythe of Shepherds, and Mary Digger's execution site remain; a Great Work is being constructed to follow. ''Inspiration:'' They inspired the Ore Hills Rebellion itself; in death their deeds Inspired the rising of the Ore Hills miners to resist the Jotun occupation of 386YE. Plan. Arm. Enchant. Resist. Exalt. Remember.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1053-808)

===Judgement 12===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Dagon of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise Alberto Acciai, Martyr of Marilen, as an Exemplar of Loyalty, with the following signs: ''Benevolence:'' Inspired by his cousin Amika, Alberto led a rebellion of slaves in the mines surrounding Marilen. Alberto was a vintner, and freed these slaves solely in pursuit of Virtue rather than riches. ''Inspiration:'' After the rebellion, Alberto led the liberated miners to the city of Marilen, where they took over the city and slew its rulers, resolving to destroy the two coming armies of the Plenum in Virtue. ''Salvation:'' In freeing these slaves, Albero was able to teach them and the people of Marilen the Way of Virtue and the use of liao, spreading our shared faith across the oppressed of the Archipelago. ''Legacy:'' Based on correspondence with Rafael Barossa d'Apulian, we know that Alberto could have fled. Instead, out of Loyalty to those he had freed, he gave his life to ignite Virtue across Asavea.
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (404-60)

===Judgement 87===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Edward Watcher
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise Eleanor Novarion, the Lady of the Proffered Hand, as an Exemplar of Pride. Once a slave, she dedicated her life following her freedom and recovery to helping others who had suffered the same, demonstrating her ''Benevolence''. Her work served as ''Inspiration'' to others, resulting in the creation of the Proffered Hand Network across the Empire. She was pivotal in securing the ''Salvation'' of the Free Folk of Asavea, reconciling their beliefs with the Way, an event marked by a miraculous aura of Pride. In her final months, she undertook ''Pilgrimage'' to Bastion, where she summarised her life with these words, a lesson to be shared across the Empire: "The greatest threat to Pride is shame. The greatest weapon against shame is Compassion."
* '''Outcome:''' {{GM}} (243-10)

==Appointment==
Twenty six [[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:''' '''Luca i Taziel i Riqueza''' was appointed with 258 votes; Miroslav Temnavoda received 34 votes; Katya Vasillova Reznikov received 18 votes

===Judgement 2===
* '''Assembly:''' The Way
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of the Way]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Tabris, son of Armisael''' was appointed with 118 votes; Yosephus Morningson received 56 votes; Warsmith the Iron Way received 32 votes

===Judgement 3===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Assignment of the [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean Library]] dose of [[liao#True Liao|True Liao]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Taddea Ginori''' was selected with 400 votes; Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum received 284 votes; Dominigo Martim de Tassato received 180 votes; Aspar received 130 votes; Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard received 128 votes; Ashborn Atla received 92 votes; Claudia Varkulova Remislav received 70 votes; Friar John of the Mourn received 20 votes; Pontius received 10 votes.

===Judgement 8===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Curator of the Printer's Guild Museum]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Fabio Costas di Sarvos''' was appointed with 130 votes

===Judgement 18===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Curator of the White City Museum]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Frater Pontius''' was appointed with 118 votes

===Judgement 28===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Crow Keeper of the Rest]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Cynerik''' was appointed with 166 votes; Skaldsfrym received 20 votes

===Judgement 33===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Hand of Guerra]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' was appointed with 90 votes

===Judgement 38===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard''' was appointed with 272 votes; Nekoda of the Shattered Tower received 194 votes

===Judgement 39===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Keeper of the Garden]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Harwyn Eternal''' was appointed with 82 votes; Farren Silverstreams received 64 votes; Brynmor Rootround received 62 votes; Mazo Freewalker received 10 votes

===Judgement 40===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[High Exorcist]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Belial De Courtenay-Wyldrose''' was appointed with 5 votes; Solas of the Spire of the Waxing Sun received 3 votes; Ehmrys i Guerra received 0 votes; Reighley of the Forlorn Scythes received 0 votes

===Judgement 46===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Barbs]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Oleander Ashwood''' was appointed with 128 votes; Neala Blackhawk received 80 votes

===Judgement 48===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Maarit Suvidottir''' was appointed with 142 votes; Damascius Netherwatch received 10 votes

===Judgement 55===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Lady of the Proffered Hand]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Leonel de Courtenay-Wyldrose''' was appointed with 62 votes; Richter Stern received 30 votes; Berith Martel received 28 votes; Ser Sable, "Knight of Love" received 22 votes

===Judgement 56===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Lantern Wolf]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Nadia von Holberg''' was appointed with 166 votes; Katarina van Palantiri received 98 votes

===Judgement 57===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Dean of Laroc Cathedral]]
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn
* '''Notes:''' Candidates were confused by the Tribune. Please see [[#Judgement 174|Judgement 174]]

===Judgement 60===
* '''Assembly:''' Marcher
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Keeper of the Orchard]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Creighton Blackwater''' was appointed with 46 votes; Maxwell Strong received 0 votes

===Judgement 64===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Athenus of the House of the Wanderer''' was appointed with 100 votes; Halkyon of the Myriad Stream received 40 votes

===Judgement 65===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Pride]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Kali Keen-Eye''' was appointed with 158 votes

===Judgement 66===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost''' was appointed with 184 votes; Nimrod, son of Noah received 10 votes

===Judgement 71===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Loyalty]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Talos of the Silent Tide''' was appointed with 92 votes; Mouse Sergeant of House Vexille received 68 votes; Julius Solomon of Ebon's Hall received 30 votes; Abraham, Order of the Basilisk received 12 votes

===Judgement 75===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Ambition]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Ser Purslane Artorigus''' was appointed with 94 votes; Callista of the Dark Shard received 82 votes

===Judgement 117===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Basilisk of the Bourse]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Heilyn Bronwen's Rest''' was appointed with 7 votes

===Judgement 121===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushkan
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Radomir Shallotovich Dvorak''' was appointed with 60 votes

===Judgement 161===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Vigilance]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Bryce the Hare''' was appointed with 218 votes

===Judgement 174===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawnish
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Dean of Laroc Cathedral]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Valentin Orzel''' was appointed with 92 votes; Earl Ailsa Tamerlaine received 88 votes; Berith Martel received 78 votes; Ser Galantyne Wooder received 0 votes

===Judgement 175===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Prosperity]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Tom Appleseed''' was appointed with 148 votes; Ivanbrok received 38 votes

==Rewarding==
Four [[rewarding|rewardings]] were presented to the assemblies during the Winter Solstice
===Judgement 6===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Jonah Yakovitch
* '''Judgement:''' Prince Bishop Yakovitch, Priest of Vigilance, seeks the support of the General Assembly to reward the exemplary Pride of Lorenzo Le Volpe. He, who took his vast wealth and as an example to us all, performed numerous acts of benevolence. Via 21 great works he built across the Empire, he continues to raise up the wealth, mana, and spiritual guidance of citizens in every nation. Let us inspire citizens to follow in his footsteps with this rewarding. In all Lorenzo did, he left the blood red mark of the Butchers Guild, therefore, I call the Synod to recognise and reward Lorenzo's pride by supporting the creation of the Blood Red Counting Houses with a reward of 38 thrones to demonstrate our support for these legacies. The Blood Red Counting Houses will allow virtuous citizens to echo Lorenzo's benevolence and donate to the virtue fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (344-632)

===Judgement 16===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Aspar
* '''Judgement:''' With the blessing of the Assembly of Nine* I request 62 thrones to be disbursed to the Imperial treasury to offset income lost to Asavean piracy. Consequences are the price of Ambition, we are willing to pay the cost. *Judgement 212, Autumn 386YE
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1000-244)
* '''Notes:''' A partial provision was made for payment, amounting to 55 thrones, 1 crown, and 16 rings

===Judgement 47===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Halwyn Splitroot
* '''Judgement:''' Idwyn Splitroot is the voice of Navarr and an inspiration of Pride for all who attend Navarr songs and stories. Let us recognise her service and help her rebuild First Voice Glade School, which was desecrated by the foul ''scions'' of Cold Sun, with the reward of 20 thrones (repeated from Autumn due to lack of funds).
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (519-434)
* '''Notes:''' While this judgement was upheld, there were no funds available.

===Judgement 139===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Eddard Wormhearth
* '''Judgement:''' I seek your aid in the rewarding of one Odette Baudelaire of house Du Letharia of the Lavender Court. During the last event she not only with great wisdom and ambition took up the role of acting earl but saved a member of the lavender lance from a cowardly act of assassination with poison! I, Eddard Wormheath of Dawn and of the Prosperity Assembly, call for the general assembly to reward her with 60 crowns from the virtue fund!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (402-396)
* '''Notes:''' A partial provision was made for payment, amounting to 2 thrones, 5 crowns, and 1 ring

==Special Considerations==
The following considerations should be borne in mind when bringing judgements before the Imperial Synod during the Winter Solstice.
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed 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>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 Spring 388YE</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 Spring 388YE</td>
</table>

==The Virtue Fund==
The following represents the Virtue Fund of the Synod:
{|
| ''Closing value at previous summit'' || nil ||
|-
| ''Donations'' || 1 Throne, 2 Crowns || Various donations received at the [[Rewarding#Counting Houses|counting house]] of [[Reikos]] prior to the start of the summit
|-
| ''Donations'' || 2 Thrones || Various donations received at the [[Rewarding#Counting Houses|counting house]] of [[Tassato]] prior to the start of the summit
|-
| ''Starting value at this summit'' || 3 Thrones, 2 Crowns ||
|-
| ''Donation'' || 1 Crown || Donation by Berith Martel
|-
| ''Donation'' || 1 Throne || Donation by an anonymous citizen
|-
| ''Donation'' || 15 Rings || Donation by the Secretary General of the Civil Service from the sale of writing implements
|-
| ''Donation'' || 6 Crowns || Donation by Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
|-
| ''Donation'' || 1 Ring || Donation by Lysimachus
|-
| ''Income'' || 50 Thrones || The price paid in the Bourse Auction for the dose of True Liao
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 55 Thrones, 1 Crown, 16 Rings || Rewarding to Aspar following [[#Judgement 16|Judgement 16]] being upheld (a margin of 756) - insufficient funds for full rewarding
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || nil || Rewarding to Halwyn ([[#Judgement 47|Judgement 47]], margin 85) was upheld, but no funds remained.
|-
| ''Donation'' || 16 Rings || Donation by the Secretary General of the Civil Service from the sale of writing implements
|-
| ''Donation'' || 5 Rings || Donation by Berith Martel
|-
| ''Donation'' || 2 Thrones, 4 Crowns || Donation by Belkov "The Fair" Prochnost
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 2 Thrones, 5 Crowns, 1 Ring || Rewarding to Eddard Warmhearth following [[#Judgement 139|Judgement 139]] being upheld - insufficient funds for full rewarding
|-
| ''Donation'' || 1 Crown || Donation by Tom Appleseed
|-
| ''Donation'' || 7 Rings || Donation by the Secretary General of the Civil Service from the sale of writing implements
|-
| ''Closing value at this summit'' || 1 Crown, 7 Rings ||
|}

==Doses of True Liao==

Five 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 Taddea Ginori via [[#Judgement 3|Judgement 3]]
* One dose to Asael of Reumah's Redoubt by purchase in the [[Public auction|Public Auction]]
* One dose to Maegruth "Bear" Bearonovich Strascovich by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to Finna of Dawn 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 || 40 || 470 || 236
|-
|Courage || 31 || 390 || 196
|-
|Loyalty || 61 || 792 || 397
|-
|Pride || 38 || 433 || 217
|-
|Prosperity || 40 || 520 || 261
|-
|Vigilance || 55 || 756 || 379
|-
|Wisdom || 43 || 495 || 248
|-
|The Way || 32 || 368 || 185
|-
|General || 340 || 4224 || 2113
|-
|}

{|
! scope="col" style="width: 320px;" | National Assembly
! Assembly Size
! Total Voting Strength
! Greater Majority Threshold
|-
|Brass Coast || 15 || 176 || 89
|-
|Dawn || 58 || 678 || 340
|-
|Highguard || 67 || 922 || 462
|-
|Imperial Orcs || 7 || 81 || 41
|-
|League || 31 || 468 || 235
|-
|Marches || 20 || 200 || 101
|-
|Navarr || 46 || 531 || 266
|-
|Urizen || 34 || 378 || 190
|-
|Varushka || 35 || 458 || 230
|-
|Wintermark || 27 || 332 || 167
|-
|General || 340 || 4224 || 2113
|-
|}

Pride and paragons

2025-04-18T14:26:47Z

RichardRaynor: /* What Are the Exemplars For? */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:386YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>Ruth glanced nervously at her brother Enoch, her nerves were so bad her hands were shaking. He locked eyes with her, his calm demeanour filling the space between them with Courage. He nodded encouragement, just once, but it was all she needed.

Screwing her Courage to the sticking-place she turned and mounted the steps of the pulpit. She put her notes on the rostrum in front of her and then looked up. The small chapel was full, it seemed like every member of their chapter was here. All forty seven of them. She swallowed nervously and realised her mouth was dry. She glanced down at her notes and spotted the glass of water Enoch had put there an hour earlier. She felt his Loyalty wrap round her like a cloak as she wet her lips. No more delays she thought, it's now or never.

"The General Assembly have..." she cracked and broke before she could finish the first line. She'd been working on for the last two years, but her stomach was churning. Come on, she thought, you can do this, you can do this. "The General Assembly have..." She stopped again.

"As you know, the General Assembly have renounced Vardas. The pioneering work published by Hazelelponi, our Lepidean Librarian, has demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt that his life was a fiction." A murmur went through the room, but she was too nervous to sense the meaning of it. Her hands tightened on the rostrum, and she pressed on.

"I invite my chapter to consider that this development is an opportunity we should embrace not fear." Her voice was growing stronger now as she warmed to her subject. She'd practiced this sermon with Enoch so many times and she tried to convince herself this was just the same.

"The age in which we live is filled with Virtue. Our leaders have set in motion events that will one day rid the world of slavery. Our generals dragged the Druj to the verge of destruction. As archivists, we are trained to sift through the dirt of the past to find the virtuous jewels. But I ask you all to consider how our world would look to us if we saw current events in the same way we see the past. What if our obsession with the inspirational figures of the past is blinding us to the extraordinary reality of the present. What if we didn't have the paragons and the examplars to inspire us - what if we had to look to each other for inspiration?"

She paused to draw breath and carefully took another sip of water. She worried someone might shout out some interruption, but the room was silent as the grave. What did Enoch use to say - so quiet you can hear the ghosts breathing.
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_General.png|caption=The General Assembly|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
In summer, the [[Lepidean Librarian]] took the Courageous decision to publish in full the library's findings on the [[Life of Vardas]]. This research appeared to show that [[Vardas]] was not a paragon, that in fact they had never existed. Their entire life story was essentially a collection of tall tales, penned by [[The_League_magical_traditions#mountebank|a League mountebank]] to make a quick ring. Some of the inspirational stories from the paragon's life were based on things actual people had done and the author simply changed the name, but there was no evidence that the man called Vardas had ever existed at all.

Vardas has been recognised as a paragon of Vigilance for well over three centuries - they were recognised by the Highborn Assembly of Vigilance in 34BE - thirty four years before the Empire was even founded. The discovery that it was all a lie and there was no Vardas threatened to be as a [[True_faith|hammer blow to the faith]] that would damage people's faith in the judgement of the [[Imperial Synod]]. If they were taken in by these lies, what other mistakes may have been made?

At the Autumn Equinox, the Synod moved decisively to prevent a full-blown crisis of faith from developing, using a judgement of recognition to renounce Vardas as a paragon. This decision has prevented a schism in the faithful, but just as anticipated, it has raised more questions than it answered.

The fear, the expectation, was that people would question all the paragons. After all, if Vardas is not real, how certain can people be that any of the paragons and exemplars are true? That has largely not happened. Rather than focus on which other paragons might be real or not, people are demanding answers to more existential questions about the nature of paragons and exemplars and the relationship of the faithful to them.

Sadly, the doubts engendered by the revelations about Vardas coupled with [[A_little_understanding|the recent condemnation of the four members of the Assembly of Nine]] for heresy and blasphemy have damaged confidence in the [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]]. The contributions from across the Empire have dried up, and it doesn't look like they are going to start again any time soon. Even the Highborn faith has been shaken, and the nation is now providing less than half what it once was. As a result, the civil service estimate it could now take a decade to finish the holy city if citizens at Anvil cannot make up the shortfall.

==False Paragons==
{{SOP|statement=We call for the Recognition of Vardas as Paragon of Vigilance to be removed in light of the research produced by the Lepidean Library. The figure of Vardas has been proven to be a fiction devised by Ivar Olyankavic Nathavolava in an attempt to profit from the embellished tales of adventure and therefore, no longer constitute an inspirational path to follow in pursuit of Enlightenment. The lie alone is enough reason to take this most serious action, but it must not be forgotten that those deeds of virtue and vigilance assigned to Vardas were inspired in some cases by real Wardens whose legacy has been robbed form them by this fraud. Centuries of inspiration belong to those unnamed Wardens, whose virtues should shine from beneath the falsehoods. Let us remember the overlooked and Vigilant who act for virtue without fame. Remember the stories, but not in the name of Vardas.|by=Gaelen Embercast, General Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 2482-74|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
* '''The General Assembly has passed a judgement with a greater majority to decisively renounce Vardas'''
* '''This has ''not'' caused people to question the existence of other paragons'''

The General Assembly has moved swiftly to prevent a crisis of faith, using a judgement of recognition to renounce Vardas. The judgement confirmed what, by then, was already well known but not entirely accepted. That Vardas was a fiction, their life a story fashioned from acts of Virtue stolen from other people's lives. The judgement by Gaelen Embercast, the Cardinal of Vigilance, implored people to remember that the inspirational deeds attributed to Vardas were real enough, even if the man himself never existed. But the cardinal was forced to acknowledge that these were the acts of many different people. The idea that one singular human being could achieve so much by themselves, that they could be a literal paragon of Vigilance, is no more.

The word of the Cardinal of Vigilance, backed as it is by the greater majority of the General Assembly, has prevented any possibility of a schism over the revelations. There were people who doubted the veracity of the Lepidean Librarian's scholarship or suggested that it was some scheme to rob the Assembly of Vigilance of one of its most inspirational figures. The judgement has taken the wind out of the supporters of Vardas, forcing them to accept that this revelation, no matter how bitter it tastes, is the truth.

The fear of many scholars of the Way was that this action would lead people to question the existence of all the paragons. By and large, that hasn't happened. The truth about Vardas has come as a terrible shock to people, but in part it is because of the baseness of the deceit. Now that people know that Vardas is a work of fiction, people find it hard not to associate it with the author of the stories, Ivar Olyankavic Nathavolava.

What Ivar did, as the cardinal's judgement has confirmed, is to steal the virtuous tales of other people and make them his own. He might have done it to make money, but the precepts are Prosperity are very clear that there is nothing Prosperous about stealing. The people whose lives Ivar stole might have been inspirational, but the author's own life story is one of petty theft and larceny. There's nothing remotely impressive about that. But to many people it's as if this theft was committed by Vardas themselves, - as if the literary figure that Ivar constructed is the one who stole the Virtuous actions from other people. Vardas, once a paragon of Vigilance who dedicated his life to fighting crime, is revealed to be nothing more than a petty criminal himself. It's not the fact that Vardas wasn't real that ultimately distresses people; it's that his story is tawdry and exemplifies naked self-interest.

What makes it worse with Vardas is that, of all the paragons, he was one of the few whose life felt relatable to many citizens in the Empire. He felt real to people, in a way that [[the Marked]] or [[the Sentinel]] or some of the others do not. The names, the places, the people described in the stories of Vardas' life were familiar to people - you could visit the places described in the tales about him.

Many of the paragons feel less real and strangely that makes the truth of their lives feel less important. One Highborn archivist gives the example of [[Tian]]. There are citizens who believe that Tian actually took fire from the actual sun... but there aren't that many. Most people, if pushed, think that on some level, the story of Tian's life is a metaphor. There are known to be copies of Tian's Epic, kept secretly in Highborn chapter houses, but people aren't pressing to have them dragged into the light of Day because there is a sense that it doesn't actually matter whether Tian took fire from the Sun or just discovered Summer magic as some scholars hypothesize. What matters is that her life inspires. If it came out that actually she just robbed a passing torch seller, then people would be devastated, it would just be Vardas all over again, but nobody imagines that is likely to be the case.

People are still angry and distressed by the lies of Vardas. But rather than push to have every paragon and exemplar thoroughly vetted, people are asking much more profound questions about the nature and role of the paragons and exemplars. There are as many questions as there are faithful, but broadly they fall into three main areas.

===Where Do the Signs Come From?===
* '''People want to know ''how'' the signs of the paragons were chosen'''

[[The Doctrines of the Faith]] state that you can identify a paragon by them having completed six of the eight signs of the paragons. But how were the signs chosen? Who chose them, and why did they pick those signs? Once they are looked at with a critical eye, some of the signs of the paragons look strange. The one cited most often is Pilgrimage - a paragon must have made a pilgrimage to Bastion - but many paragons are thought to have lived in a time before Bastion existed. [[Schools_of_thought#Critical_Realism|Critical realists]] have consistently argued that the sign of pilgrimage is a purely political sign with no grounding in faith or doctrine.

Liberation is another sign that people often argue about - a sign that can literally never be checked except in the negative. There is no way to ''know'' that someone has escaped the Labyrinth, you can only ever know that they haven't (if someone has a past life vision of being that person). Why are paragons judged against a sign that it's logically impossible to know if someone has met?

[[Schools_of_thought#Absolute_Aspirationalism|Absolute aspirationalists]] argue that ''nobody'' should be recognised as an exemplar or paragon. The argument was often predicated on the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Human_Destiny|Doctrine of Human Destiny]], because the implication is that paragons are better in some way than other humans. In recent times, absolute aspirationalists tend to make arguments based on inspiration - that the Way's emphasis on the extraordinary lives of the paragons causes people to overlook the extraordinary acts of Virtue that happen, simply because they aren't accompanied by miracles or other signs of the paragons.

The [[Schools_of_thought#Pragmatic_Secularism|pragmatic secularists]] have long been critical of the [[Signs of the paragon and exemplar#Miracles|miracle]] sign and denied that exemplars and paragons have any supernatural element. Instead, they claim they are simply people whose virtuous behaviour inspires others.

If the paragons are judged against the eight signs of the paragon, then surely it makes sense to know more about the signs? How were they chosen and by whom? Such a line of enquiry begs the question - that the signs of the paragon might not be perfect. If the Empire pursues this question, they are likely to end up having to wrestle with the issue of which signs of the paragons are valid.

===What Are the Exemplars For?===
{{SOP|statement=The exemplars of vigilance lived and died in history, that of our nations, Their legacies are writ in stone, not story. You may visit the home of Major Benson, meet his descendants, stand up on his grave. You may see Berechiah's actions and his virtuous crimes in Imperial record. Make pilgrimage to their tombs. Reflect that these were people like you, heroes, not legends. Renew your faith.|by=Martin Orchard, General Assembly|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE|vote=1730-130}}
* '''People want the Synod to examine what exemplars are for'''

The inspirational figures are often spoken of as if they were two wheels on the same axle - paragons and exemplars. Paragons are defined in the Doctrines of the Faith, which lay out clear signs that they can be identified by. But exemplars are ''nowhere'' mentioned in the Doctrines of the Faith. If a paragon is defined by the Doctrines as a truly virtuous spirit, capable of freeing itself from the Labyrinth of Ages, what is an exemplar?

The common answer is that it is someone on the way to becoming a paragon. But isn't everyone who pursues the Way going through a continuous cycle of death and rebirth as they seek to become a paragon and free themselves from the Labyrinth? What is the official role of exemplars? Why do paragons need six of the signs and exemplars only four?

Paragons are usually seen as being more important than exemplars, but last season the General Assembly passed a judgement by Martin Orchard that seemed to imply that, actually, exemplars are more inspirational figures than the paragons because their lives are so much more real. [[Cora Holdfast]] was recognised as an exemplar in 379YE - there is absolutely no doubt of any kind at all that Cora was ''real''. There are too many people in the Synod today who were contemporaries of Cora, who can remember talking with her, spending time with her. Should people look for inspiration to a figure like [[Tian]] that feels like a legend they can't relate to, or to a flesh-and-blood person like Cora that many of them actually met?

Martin Orchard appears to be making an argument commonly associated with the [[Schools_of_thought#Aspirationalism|aspirationalists]] who have long argued that the distinction between exemplars and paragons is purely political, and has no benefit to the Way. They claim that the important thing is that these figures are ''inspirational'' and call for the distinction between exemplars and paragons to be disavowed.

If the Empire knew more about the history of exemplars, and why the first people to be named exemplars received that honour, then the Synod could wrestle with the deeper question of what exemplars are for - what role they should play in the Way?

===Why Do Paragons Only Display One Virtue?===
* '''The Synod has never named the First Empress as a paragon, because nobody can agree which Virtue she exemplifies'''
* '''Why does a paragon have to be associated with a single virtue'''

The modern process of recognising a paragon requires a judgement of recognition by a Virtue Assembly, followed by a subsequent judgement of recognition in the General Assembly with another greater majority. The process is very explicit that a paragon must be identified first by a Virtue Assembly - to identify which Virtue they are a paragon of.

But that idea ''isn't'' contained in the Doctrines of the Faith. There's no part of the Doctrines that requires you to believe that a paragon exemplifies a single virtue to the exclusion of all others. In fact, most people explicitly reject the [[Schools_of_thought#Purism|purist]] school of thought that says you can only be a paragon if you pursue a single virtue at every moment of your life.

The undeniable truth is that many acts that people undertake can't easily be divided into one Virtue or another. Is the soldier who marches to battle alongside his brother, Courageous to face death, Ambitious to dream of victory or simply Loyal to his kin? Most citizens would accept that it is can be a mix of all the Virtues that inspires someone.

You can only ever be dedicated to a single Virtue. You can only create auras of a single Virtue - and that is often cited as the basis for the argument that you can only be a paragon of a single Virtue. But the First Empress is arguably the most inspirational figure who ever lived. Why shouldn't she be a paragon of ''every'' Virtue as the followers of [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_First_Empress|the First Empress]] claim?

The [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_Excessionist_Heresy|excessionists]] go further, arguing that an excess of Virtue can be a bad thing. The suggestion is that the perfect approach to the Way is to strive to follow all the Virtues equally. That is completely at odds with the idea of the paragons, but only if you demand that each paragon only exemplifies a single Virtue.

If the Empire knew why the founders of the Synod believed that a paragon could only be associated with a single Virtue, it might help them understand the paragons and exemplars better. Such research risks restarting the Excessionist Heresy and other schisms, but it might help the Doctrinal Reform Council when they come to examine the Doctrine of the Paragon.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Archivist1.jpg|title=Highborn Archivists have a calling, but they are more concerned with deeper truths than mere facts.|width=300|align=right}}</div>

==The Next Question==
* '''Many scholars of the Lepidean Library are heartbroken by their own role in the disavowal of Vardas and plan to retire'''
* '''If they quit the Library immediately, it will no longer be able to carry out historical research on behalf of the Lepidean Librarian unless a compromise is reached'''
* '''If the Library avoids researching the life of a paragon or exemplar for the next year then the problem will be averted'''
* '''They are prepared to focus their attentions on one of the three questions raised to try and offer the Synod assistance in answering them'''

Most of the scholars of the [[Lepidean_Librarian#Lepidean_University|Lepidean University]] are traditional Highborn [[Highguard_history#Archivists|archivists]]. To an archivist, the purpose of studying history is to find inspiration. The blunt truth is that many of them would have preferred to discreetly drop the research on Vardas before the truth could come out. There is some suggestion that they have done this in the recent past. Many of those who work at the Library are now filled with anguish and grief at the outcome of their painstaking work.

To an archivist, the past is not a set of facts to be curated, but a rich source of inspiration that provides a Way to Virtue. Some archivists describe themselves as sculptors, cutting away the minutiae of the past to allow the Virtuous story to emerge. A number of archivists are firmly of the view that it doesn't matter in the slightest that Vardas wasn't real - what matters is that their legend inspired Imperial citizens for three hundred year to be vigilant and fight crime. And now, instead of an inspirational legend that generations of Highborn will grow up aspiring to imitate, the Empire is left with a sorry tale about the importance of not putting too much in faith in inspirational figures in case they turn out to be liars and thieves. They regard what happened with Vardas as destructive iconoclasm that has aided nobody.

After lengthy discussion, the scholars who feel most strongly about this point have decided to retire in the coming months. The thought that they might be asked to investigate the life of [[Tian]] or [[Kethry]] or [[Atuman]] and be forced to discover and reveal some tawdry detail about a great paragon's life is too much to bear. It would take some time for the Library to replace these experienced individuals if they all retired en masse, and so a painstaking compromise has been agreed.

For the next year, the Library will focus its work on the past life visions and will not be asked to carry out research into paragons and exemplars. If that is amenable to the Lepidean Librarian, then most of the existing researchers will agree to continue at the Library until replacements can be found. If not, if the Librarian tries to force the issue by demanding new work be done on a paragon or exemplar, then the archivists employed by the Library will leave, and the Library's ability to research anything will come to an abrupt end.

To compensate for this loss, the staff of the Library have offered to help the Librarian attempt to answer some of the questions that have been raised by the publication of the story of Vardas. They are happy to devote the resources of the Lepidean Library to research on one of the three questions outlined above and believe that they are uniquely well placed to deliver the kind of information that would help the Synod wrestle with these issues in a way that will test the Way but they hope leave it stronger than before. They can't answer the question itself, but they can research the facts surrounding the issue and present those to the Synod for discussion.

The librarians warn that any of the three topics would take time to research thoroughly. They cannot be completely certain, but they believe that each question would take six months to answer. This work would be ''instead'' of the normal research conducted by the Library, so it could not be used at the same time that research into a past life was commissioned. They would present their findings to Hazelelponi, or to the [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] in their absence. They trust that either of these two figures will be able to deal with their report appropriately and publish whatever parts of it they think will benefit the Empire. Of course, the Librarian could refrain from issuing any instruction to the scholars at all, if they feel this work would be too dangerous, but that would mean they would lose this final benefit from the Library.

The Librarian can use their power to direct the Library using an [[Senate_announcement|announcement]] in the Senate, indicating which of the three questions - if any - they would like the librarians to work on.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Hazelelponi.jpg|align=right|caption=Hazelelponi of the [[Highguard_groups#The_Shattered_Tower|Shattered Tower]] is the [[Lepidean Librarian]], who guides the research of the [[Lepidean_Librarian#Lepidean_University|Lepidean University]].|width=400}}</div>

==Outstanding Work==
* '''There is a forthcoming piece of work on Tom Drake which is currently delayed'''
* '''One of the staff at the Library has publicly asked the Marcher Assembly to pass judgement on the matter'''
* '''This request is informal and the Assembly has no legal right to intervene in this way, but any response is likely to influence the outcome regardless'''

In Summer 386YE, the Lepidean Librarian instructed the Library to [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Research_Tom_Drake|research the life, history, and personal values of Tom Drake]]. The instruction came a season after the Library were asked to look into the life of Vardas, which may have influenced how people feel. The work is now overdue, but it is has become painfully clear that the Library are dragging their feet. They keep asking for more time to check their findings and have dropped veiled hints to the Librarian that they are struggling to meet the expressed goal - to find ''"information on his Legacy can re-inspire that Pride for things, both small and great."''

One of the more traditional archivists, Mattias of Virtue's Rest, has very publicly argued that the work the library is doing goes against years of established Highborn tradition. According to Mattias, the problem with iconoclasm is that ''"smashing shit up is easy and makes you feel great, but after the music stops all you're left with is a pile of broken shit"''. Though his colleagues suggest he was deep in his cups when he said that, he has gone on to repeatedly request that the Library petition the Senate to change their remit to something more acceptable to traditional archivists - claiming that the study of history should be a search for inspiring Virtue rather than miserable facts. These requests have routinely been rebuffed by Leontes the Scribe as inappropriate suggestions from a civil servant working in an official capacity.

In frustration, Mattias has taken the unprecedented step of publicly appealing to the Marcher Assembly to weigh in on this matter. He has informed his superiors that he has written letters to several Marcher priests, imploring the Assembly to consider if they really want the Library to run the risk of besmirching the reputation of the single most important inspirational figure from Marcher history. Most of his friends think he's a fool, pointing out that the Marcher Assembly are no more likely to listen to a lowly archivist than the Highborn Assembly. It's not certain if any of the letters have reached their intended target but officially the civil service has been clear that these letters have no formal standing and the Marcher Assembly has no legal right to interfere in this matter.

The archivists working for the Library are clearly concerned about what they might discover about Tom Drake. The strictly legal interpretation that the Assembly has no right to interfere in this matter may be correct, but any clear statement from the Assembly is likely to be influential in this matter - whether it's "publish and be damned" or something more subtle like an instruction to "find out everything that will add to the inspiration provided by this important Marcher figure".
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Grand Endeavours.png|caption=Inspiration for the grand endeavour has been provided, the ground is being cleared, the first white granite towers begin to rise.|align=left|width=400}}</div>

==The Grand Inspiration==
* '''The Grand Inspiration requires 1000 wains of white granite and 250 thrones'''
* '''To date the project has received 583 wains of white granite and 167 thrones'''
* '''The Highborn Assembly have invited priests from every nation that has contributed to preach at the Grand Inspiration once it is complete'''
* '''Donations from other nations have now stopped and donations from Highguard are waning as the Way is hit by one crisis after another'''
* '''At current rates it will be the best part of a decade for the holy city to be completed'''

The plan for the Grand Inspiration of the Way was conceived in Spring 385YE. The Imperial Senate had asked Naomi of Virtue's Rest to [[appraisal|appraise]] what could be done to [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Pilgrims_of_the_Way|encourage pilgrims of the Way from foreign nations to come to the Empire]] with the explicit intention that Bastion take its rightful place as the birthplace of the Way and diminish the importance of its rival in [[Sumaah_Republic#Timoj|Timoj]]. If Naomi had been able to carry out the appraisal, history might have taken a very different course, but the Senate had already assigned her to a different appraisal and so [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater|Eilian Sweetwater]] was given the task in her place.

Ellian's proposal to create a new holy city of the Way was breath-taking in both scale and grandeur. A contest was arranged to find an artist with the vision to imagine this grand new edifice. The Assembly of Nine [[The_cities_and_the_city#Bastion:_the_Grand_Endeavour|chose to take elements from two designs]]; the sketches by '''Millward Cowley''' that laid out the basic design of the city building on conceptual art by '''Skywise Gralka''' that captured the idea of soaring towers and pealing bells. Together, they formed a plan for a new religious city. All that was needed was a thousand wains of white granite and 250 thrones to build it!

This was easily the largest [[commission]] the Senate has ever authorised, and it was clear it would take years to gather the materials needed. Fortunately, a number of nations were prepared to support the project. The national assemblies of the Marches, [[the Brass Coast]], [[Wintermark]], [[Navarr]], [[the League]], and Dawn all encouraged the Virtuous citizens of their nation to donate wains to support the project. Coupled with the ongoing donations from citizens of Highguard, the people of the Empire donated more than five hundred wains to the project. Sadly, most of those donations have now ended, only the Highborn people are still contributing to the Grand Inspiration of the Way. Without significant additional donations of white granite and money from wealthy citizens who attend Anvil, the civil service estimates it will take approximately ten more years to gather the remaining resources needed.
{{SOP|statement=A year ago, Rafael Barossa d'Apulian called for every citizen of the League to contribute whatever they could to support the raising of the Holy City in Bastion. Once again, the League rose to the challenge. Where others doubted, the League did not fear to act, matching their word with deed. The virtue of every citizen of the League who contributed will echo through history for 1000 years. There is nothing great without cost, and the Highborn recognise the courage in their commitment to building the greatest beacon of the faith the world has ever seen. We invite the League to send a delegation of bishops to teach in Bastion upon its completion. They have earned their place alongside Highguard and should be welcomed to spread their perspective on the way to pilgrims. Only through these bonds of kinship can the great inspiration enable the way to reach every soul in existence.|by=Dagon of the Shattered Tower, Highborn Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 588-18|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE|size=small}}
Most nations of the Empire have done what they can to support the Grand Inspiration - only Varushka, the [[Imperial Orcs]], and [[Urizen]] rejected the call to help. The Varushkans opted to create their own [[The_Deer_in_the_Sun#Constructing_The_Folly_2|Hall of Fabric Arts]] instead, while the Imperial Orcs preferred to build [[The_Deer_in_the_Sun#The_Library_of_Worth|a Library of Worth]]. The Urizen also opted to focus efforts towards their own projects, though their Assembly stopped short of calling it folly.

The Highborn Assembly subsequently passed eloquent statements of principle with a greater majority praising the Virtue of those nations who have contributed, one for every nation that heeded the call. Each carefully worded statement included an explicit invitation to [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_8|the League]], [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_25|Dawn]], [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_33|Wintermark]], [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Navarr]], [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_21|the Brass Coast]], and [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|the Marches]] to send priests to Highguard to spread their perspective on the Way to pilgrims.

These invitations are a proud and virtuous sentiment. The Virtuous inspire others to greatness after all. But what are these priests coming to Highguard going to preach? Bastion is the heart of the Way, the faith began ''here''. Are Marcher priests going to come to the holy city and talk about shriving? Will Dawnish troubadours sing about the Virtues or will they share their belief in the power of glory and love to inspire people? The Synod has said these heterodox ideas are fine, even though they are not supported by the Doctrines of the Faith. It's easy to say that priests coming to Bastion are never going to preach heresy, that would be madness. But then, nobody imagined the Assembly of Nine would embrace a false virtue either...

The problems with Vardas and the situation in the Assembly of Nine have exacerbated the growing fears about heterodoxy and false virtues in the Empire. People agree that the new holy city must be something for the whole Empire, but in Highguard they are increasingly worried at the prospect that the project is fatally flawed. When confidence in the Way was high, people felt positive about building the greatest monument the world has ever seen to showcase their faith. They are significantly less convinced of the Wisdom of that approach when there is no saying what will be preached there. As a result, the donations from Highborn citizens have trailed off to a "mere" ten wains a season. It's not clear when, or even if, that can be restored, but at that rate, that edifice will take more than ten years to complete without significant donations from citizens at Anvil.

Many people are viewing this delay as a ''good'' thing. The Grand Inspiration can still be completed in their lifetime, but now there is time for Highguard and the Synod to contemplate what the Grand Inspiration is truly ''for''. Is it a monument to the Empire, a testament to the power of the nations to work together to create something extraordinary? Is it the beating heart of the Way, a place devoted to the study of the Doctrines of the Faith and the pursuit of virtue, that is free from heterodoxy and the taint of false virtues? If it takes ten years to complete, what will the Way even look like when the capstone is placed?

And some people are asking more profound questions. Why is Highguard pouring their efforts into building this giant monument to the Way, when the faith itself seems to be failing? Is this edifice actually the best way to safeguard the Way? What if [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|Aspar was ''right'']] when he implied the Grand Inspiration was quite literally a folly? The Way is in crisis - again. Surely Highguard should try to shore up the faith itself rather than shoring up the building meant to house it?

==Further Reading==
* [[Life of Vardas]]
* [[Paragons and exemplars]]
* [[Schools of thought]] - Various philosophies regarding paragons and exemplars
* [[Schisms and Heresies]] - popular approaches to the Way that are not entirely mainstream
* [[True faith]] - Autumn 386YE wind of fortune about the post-Vardas crisis

Pride and paragons

2025-04-18T14:26:03Z

RichardRaynor: /* False Paragons */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:386YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>Ruth glanced nervously at her brother Enoch, her nerves were so bad her hands were shaking. He locked eyes with her, his calm demeanour filling the space between them with Courage. He nodded encouragement, just once, but it was all she needed.

Screwing her Courage to the sticking-place she turned and mounted the steps of the pulpit. She put her notes on the rostrum in front of her and then looked up. The small chapel was full, it seemed like every member of their chapter was here. All forty seven of them. She swallowed nervously and realised her mouth was dry. She glanced down at her notes and spotted the glass of water Enoch had put there an hour earlier. She felt his Loyalty wrap round her like a cloak as she wet her lips. No more delays she thought, it's now or never.

"The General Assembly have..." she cracked and broke before she could finish the first line. She'd been working on for the last two years, but her stomach was churning. Come on, she thought, you can do this, you can do this. "The General Assembly have..." She stopped again.

"As you know, the General Assembly have renounced Vardas. The pioneering work published by Hazelelponi, our Lepidean Librarian, has demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt that his life was a fiction." A murmur went through the room, but she was too nervous to sense the meaning of it. Her hands tightened on the rostrum, and she pressed on.

"I invite my chapter to consider that this development is an opportunity we should embrace not fear." Her voice was growing stronger now as she warmed to her subject. She'd practiced this sermon with Enoch so many times and she tried to convince herself this was just the same.

"The age in which we live is filled with Virtue. Our leaders have set in motion events that will one day rid the world of slavery. Our generals dragged the Druj to the verge of destruction. As archivists, we are trained to sift through the dirt of the past to find the virtuous jewels. But I ask you all to consider how our world would look to us if we saw current events in the same way we see the past. What if our obsession with the inspirational figures of the past is blinding us to the extraordinary reality of the present. What if we didn't have the paragons and the examplars to inspire us - what if we had to look to each other for inspiration?"

She paused to draw breath and carefully took another sip of water. She worried someone might shout out some interruption, but the room was silent as the grave. What did Enoch use to say - so quiet you can hear the ghosts breathing.
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_General.png|caption=The General Assembly|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
In summer, the [[Lepidean Librarian]] took the Courageous decision to publish in full the library's findings on the [[Life of Vardas]]. This research appeared to show that [[Vardas]] was not a paragon, that in fact they had never existed. Their entire life story was essentially a collection of tall tales, penned by [[The_League_magical_traditions#mountebank|a League mountebank]] to make a quick ring. Some of the inspirational stories from the paragon's life were based on things actual people had done and the author simply changed the name, but there was no evidence that the man called Vardas had ever existed at all.

Vardas has been recognised as a paragon of Vigilance for well over three centuries - they were recognised by the Highborn Assembly of Vigilance in 34BE - thirty four years before the Empire was even founded. The discovery that it was all a lie and there was no Vardas threatened to be as a [[True_faith|hammer blow to the faith]] that would damage people's faith in the judgement of the [[Imperial Synod]]. If they were taken in by these lies, what other mistakes may have been made?

At the Autumn Equinox, the Synod moved decisively to prevent a full-blown crisis of faith from developing, using a judgement of recognition to renounce Vardas as a paragon. This decision has prevented a schism in the faithful, but just as anticipated, it has raised more questions than it answered.

The fear, the expectation, was that people would question all the paragons. After all, if Vardas is not real, how certain can people be that any of the paragons and exemplars are true? That has largely not happened. Rather than focus on which other paragons might be real or not, people are demanding answers to more existential questions about the nature of paragons and exemplars and the relationship of the faithful to them.

Sadly, the doubts engendered by the revelations about Vardas coupled with [[A_little_understanding|the recent condemnation of the four members of the Assembly of Nine]] for heresy and blasphemy have damaged confidence in the [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]]. The contributions from across the Empire have dried up, and it doesn't look like they are going to start again any time soon. Even the Highborn faith has been shaken, and the nation is now providing less than half what it once was. As a result, the civil service estimate it could now take a decade to finish the holy city if citizens at Anvil cannot make up the shortfall.

==False Paragons==
{{SOP|statement=We call for the Recognition of Vardas as Paragon of Vigilance to be removed in light of the research produced by the Lepidean Library. The figure of Vardas has been proven to be a fiction devised by Ivar Olyankavic Nathavolava in an attempt to profit from the embellished tales of adventure and therefore, no longer constitute an inspirational path to follow in pursuit of Enlightenment. The lie alone is enough reason to take this most serious action, but it must not be forgotten that those deeds of virtue and vigilance assigned to Vardas were inspired in some cases by real Wardens whose legacy has been robbed form them by this fraud. Centuries of inspiration belong to those unnamed Wardens, whose virtues should shine from beneath the falsehoods. Let us remember the overlooked and Vigilant who act for virtue without fame. Remember the stories, but not in the name of Vardas.|by=Gaelen Embercast, General Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 2482-74|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
* '''The General Assembly has passed a judgement with a greater majority to decisively renounce Vardas'''
* '''This has ''not'' caused people to question the existence of other paragons'''

The General Assembly has moved swiftly to prevent a crisis of faith, using a judgement of recognition to renounce Vardas. The judgement confirmed what, by then, was already well known but not entirely accepted. That Vardas was a fiction, their life a story fashioned from acts of Virtue stolen from other people's lives. The judgement by Gaelen Embercast, the Cardinal of Vigilance, implored people to remember that the inspirational deeds attributed to Vardas were real enough, even if the man himself never existed. But the cardinal was forced to acknowledge that these were the acts of many different people. The idea that one singular human being could achieve so much by themselves, that they could be a literal paragon of Vigilance, is no more.

The word of the Cardinal of Vigilance, backed as it is by the greater majority of the General Assembly, has prevented any possibility of a schism over the revelations. There were people who doubted the veracity of the Lepidean Librarian's scholarship or suggested that it was some scheme to rob the Assembly of Vigilance of one of its most inspirational figures. The judgement has taken the wind out of the supporters of Vardas, forcing them to accept that this revelation, no matter how bitter it tastes, is the truth.

The fear of many scholars of the Way was that this action would lead people to question the existence of all the paragons. By and large, that hasn't happened. The truth about Vardas has come as a terrible shock to people, but in part it is because of the baseness of the deceit. Now that people know that Vardas is a work of fiction, people find it hard not to associate it with the author of the stories, Ivar Olyankavic Nathavolava.

What Ivar did, as the cardinal's judgement has confirmed, is to steal the virtuous tales of other people and make them his own. He might have done it to make money, but the precepts are Prosperity are very clear that there is nothing Prosperous about stealing. The people whose lives Ivar stole might have been inspirational, but the author's own life story is one of petty theft and larceny. There's nothing remotely impressive about that. But to many people it's as if this theft was committed by Vardas themselves, - as if the literary figure that Ivar constructed is the one who stole the Virtuous actions from other people. Vardas, once a paragon of Vigilance who dedicated his life to fighting crime, is revealed to be nothing more than a petty criminal himself. It's not the fact that Vardas wasn't real that ultimately distresses people; it's that his story is tawdry and exemplifies naked self-interest.

What makes it worse with Vardas is that, of all the paragons, he was one of the few whose life felt relatable to many citizens in the Empire. He felt real to people, in a way that [[the Marked]] or [[the Sentinel]] or some of the others do not. The names, the places, the people described in the stories of Vardas' life were familiar to people - you could visit the places described in the tales about him.

Many of the paragons feel less real and strangely that makes the truth of their lives feel less important. One Highborn archivist gives the example of [[Tian]]. There are citizens who believe that Tian actually took fire from the actual sun... but there aren't that many. Most people, if pushed, think that on some level, the story of Tian's life is a metaphor. There are known to be copies of Tian's Epic, kept secretly in Highborn chapter houses, but people aren't pressing to have them dragged into the light of Day because there is a sense that it doesn't actually matter whether Tian took fire from the Sun or just discovered Summer magic as some scholars hypothesize. What matters is that her life inspires. If it came out that actually she just robbed a passing torch seller, then people would be devastated, it would just be Vardas all over again, but nobody imagines that is likely to be the case.

People are still angry and distressed by the lies of Vardas. But rather than push to have every paragon and exemplar thoroughly vetted, people are asking much more profound questions about the nature and role of the paragons and exemplars. There are as many questions as there are faithful, but broadly they fall into three main areas.

===Where Do the Signs Come From?===
* '''People want to know ''how'' the signs of the paragons were chosen'''

[[The Doctrines of the Faith]] state that you can identify a paragon by them having completed six of the eight signs of the paragons. But how were the signs chosen? Who chose them, and why did they pick those signs? Once they are looked at with a critical eye, some of the signs of the paragons look strange. The one cited most often is Pilgrimage - a paragon must have made a pilgrimage to Bastion - but many paragons are thought to have lived in a time before Bastion existed. [[Schools_of_thought#Critical_Realism|Critical realists]] have consistently argued that the sign of pilgrimage is a purely political sign with no grounding in faith or doctrine.

Liberation is another sign that people often argue about - a sign that can literally never be checked except in the negative. There is no way to ''know'' that someone has escaped the Labyrinth, you can only ever know that they haven't (if someone has a past life vision of being that person). Why are paragons judged against a sign that it's logically impossible to know if someone has met?

[[Schools_of_thought#Absolute_Aspirationalism|Absolute aspirationalists]] argue that ''nobody'' should be recognised as an exemplar or paragon. The argument was often predicated on the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Human_Destiny|Doctrine of Human Destiny]], because the implication is that paragons are better in some way than other humans. In recent times, absolute aspirationalists tend to make arguments based on inspiration - that the Way's emphasis on the extraordinary lives of the paragons causes people to overlook the extraordinary acts of Virtue that happen, simply because they aren't accompanied by miracles or other signs of the paragons.

The [[Schools_of_thought#Pragmatic_Secularism|pragmatic secularists]] have long been critical of the [[Signs of the paragon and exemplar#Miracles|miracle]] sign and denied that exemplars and paragons have any supernatural element. Instead, they claim they are simply people whose virtuous behaviour inspires others.

If the paragons are judged against the eight signs of the paragon, then surely it makes sense to know more about the signs? How were they chosen and by whom? Such a line of enquiry begs the question - that the signs of the paragon might not be perfect. If the Empire pursues this question, they are likely to end up having to wrestle with the issue of which signs of the paragons are valid.

===What Are the Exemplars For?===
{{SOP|statement=The exemplars of vigilance lived and died in history, that of our nations, Their legacies are writ in stone, not story. You may visit the home of Major Benson, meet his descendants, stand up on his grave. You may see Berechiah's actions and his virtuous crimes in Imperial record. Make pilgrimage to their tombs. Reflect that these were people like you, heroes, not legends. Renew your faith.|by=Martin Orchard, General Assembly|Autumn Equinox 386YE|vote=1730-130}}
* '''People want the Synod to examine what exemplars are for'''

The inspirational figures are often spoken of as if they were two wheels on the same axle - paragons and exemplars. Paragons are defined in the Doctrines of the Faith, which lay out clear signs that they can be identified by. But exemplars are ''nowhere'' mentioned in the Doctrines of the Faith. If a paragon is defined by the Doctrines as a truly virtuous spirit, capable of freeing itself from the Labyrinth of Ages, what is an exemplar?

The common answer is that it is someone on the way to becoming a paragon. But isn't everyone who pursues the Way going through a continuous cycle of death and rebirth as they seek to become a paragon and free themselves from the Labyrinth? What is the official role of exemplars? Why do paragons need six of the signs and exemplars only four?

Paragons are usually seen as being more important than exemplars, but last season the General Assembly passed a judgement by Martin Orchard that seemed to imply that, actually, exemplars are more inspirational figures than the paragons because their lives are so much more real. [[Cora Holdfast]] was recognised as an exemplar in 379YE - there is absolutely no doubt of any kind at all that Cora was ''real''. There are too many people in the Synod today who were contemporaries of Cora, who can remember talking with her, spending time with her. Should people look for inspiration to a figure like [[Tian]] that feels like a legend they can't relate to, or to a flesh-and-blood person like Cora that many of them actually met?

Martin Orchard appears to be making an argument commonly associated with the [[Schools_of_thought#Aspirationalism|aspirationalists]] who have long argued that the distinction between exemplars and paragons is purely political, and has no benefit to the Way. They claim that the important thing is that these figures are ''inspirational'' and call for the distinction between exemplars and paragons to be disavowed.

If the Empire knew more about the history of exemplars, and why the first people to be named exemplars received that honour, then the Synod could wrestle with the deeper question of what exemplars are for - what role they should play in the Way?

===Why Do Paragons Only Display One Virtue?===
* '''The Synod has never named the First Empress as a paragon, because nobody can agree which Virtue she exemplifies'''
* '''Why does a paragon have to be associated with a single virtue'''

The modern process of recognising a paragon requires a judgement of recognition by a Virtue Assembly, followed by a subsequent judgement of recognition in the General Assembly with another greater majority. The process is very explicit that a paragon must be identified first by a Virtue Assembly - to identify which Virtue they are a paragon of.

But that idea ''isn't'' contained in the Doctrines of the Faith. There's no part of the Doctrines that requires you to believe that a paragon exemplifies a single virtue to the exclusion of all others. In fact, most people explicitly reject the [[Schools_of_thought#Purism|purist]] school of thought that says you can only be a paragon if you pursue a single virtue at every moment of your life.

The undeniable truth is that many acts that people undertake can't easily be divided into one Virtue or another. Is the soldier who marches to battle alongside his brother, Courageous to face death, Ambitious to dream of victory or simply Loyal to his kin? Most citizens would accept that it is can be a mix of all the Virtues that inspires someone.

You can only ever be dedicated to a single Virtue. You can only create auras of a single Virtue - and that is often cited as the basis for the argument that you can only be a paragon of a single Virtue. But the First Empress is arguably the most inspirational figure who ever lived. Why shouldn't she be a paragon of ''every'' Virtue as the followers of [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_First_Empress|the First Empress]] claim?

The [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_Excessionist_Heresy|excessionists]] go further, arguing that an excess of Virtue can be a bad thing. The suggestion is that the perfect approach to the Way is to strive to follow all the Virtues equally. That is completely at odds with the idea of the paragons, but only if you demand that each paragon only exemplifies a single Virtue.

If the Empire knew why the founders of the Synod believed that a paragon could only be associated with a single Virtue, it might help them understand the paragons and exemplars better. Such research risks restarting the Excessionist Heresy and other schisms, but it might help the Doctrinal Reform Council when they come to examine the Doctrine of the Paragon.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Archivist1.jpg|title=Highborn Archivists have a calling, but they are more concerned with deeper truths than mere facts.|width=300|align=right}}</div>

==The Next Question==
* '''Many scholars of the Lepidean Library are heartbroken by their own role in the disavowal of Vardas and plan to retire'''
* '''If they quit the Library immediately, it will no longer be able to carry out historical research on behalf of the Lepidean Librarian unless a compromise is reached'''
* '''If the Library avoids researching the life of a paragon or exemplar for the next year then the problem will be averted'''
* '''They are prepared to focus their attentions on one of the three questions raised to try and offer the Synod assistance in answering them'''

Most of the scholars of the [[Lepidean_Librarian#Lepidean_University|Lepidean University]] are traditional Highborn [[Highguard_history#Archivists|archivists]]. To an archivist, the purpose of studying history is to find inspiration. The blunt truth is that many of them would have preferred to discreetly drop the research on Vardas before the truth could come out. There is some suggestion that they have done this in the recent past. Many of those who work at the Library are now filled with anguish and grief at the outcome of their painstaking work.

To an archivist, the past is not a set of facts to be curated, but a rich source of inspiration that provides a Way to Virtue. Some archivists describe themselves as sculptors, cutting away the minutiae of the past to allow the Virtuous story to emerge. A number of archivists are firmly of the view that it doesn't matter in the slightest that Vardas wasn't real - what matters is that their legend inspired Imperial citizens for three hundred year to be vigilant and fight crime. And now, instead of an inspirational legend that generations of Highborn will grow up aspiring to imitate, the Empire is left with a sorry tale about the importance of not putting too much in faith in inspirational figures in case they turn out to be liars and thieves. They regard what happened with Vardas as destructive iconoclasm that has aided nobody.

After lengthy discussion, the scholars who feel most strongly about this point have decided to retire in the coming months. The thought that they might be asked to investigate the life of [[Tian]] or [[Kethry]] or [[Atuman]] and be forced to discover and reveal some tawdry detail about a great paragon's life is too much to bear. It would take some time for the Library to replace these experienced individuals if they all retired en masse, and so a painstaking compromise has been agreed.

For the next year, the Library will focus its work on the past life visions and will not be asked to carry out research into paragons and exemplars. If that is amenable to the Lepidean Librarian, then most of the existing researchers will agree to continue at the Library until replacements can be found. If not, if the Librarian tries to force the issue by demanding new work be done on a paragon or exemplar, then the archivists employed by the Library will leave, and the Library's ability to research anything will come to an abrupt end.

To compensate for this loss, the staff of the Library have offered to help the Librarian attempt to answer some of the questions that have been raised by the publication of the story of Vardas. They are happy to devote the resources of the Lepidean Library to research on one of the three questions outlined above and believe that they are uniquely well placed to deliver the kind of information that would help the Synod wrestle with these issues in a way that will test the Way but they hope leave it stronger than before. They can't answer the question itself, but they can research the facts surrounding the issue and present those to the Synod for discussion.

The librarians warn that any of the three topics would take time to research thoroughly. They cannot be completely certain, but they believe that each question would take six months to answer. This work would be ''instead'' of the normal research conducted by the Library, so it could not be used at the same time that research into a past life was commissioned. They would present their findings to Hazelelponi, or to the [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] in their absence. They trust that either of these two figures will be able to deal with their report appropriately and publish whatever parts of it they think will benefit the Empire. Of course, the Librarian could refrain from issuing any instruction to the scholars at all, if they feel this work would be too dangerous, but that would mean they would lose this final benefit from the Library.

The Librarian can use their power to direct the Library using an [[Senate_announcement|announcement]] in the Senate, indicating which of the three questions - if any - they would like the librarians to work on.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Hazelelponi.jpg|align=right|caption=Hazelelponi of the [[Highguard_groups#The_Shattered_Tower|Shattered Tower]] is the [[Lepidean Librarian]], who guides the research of the [[Lepidean_Librarian#Lepidean_University|Lepidean University]].|width=400}}</div>

==Outstanding Work==
* '''There is a forthcoming piece of work on Tom Drake which is currently delayed'''
* '''One of the staff at the Library has publicly asked the Marcher Assembly to pass judgement on the matter'''
* '''This request is informal and the Assembly has no legal right to intervene in this way, but any response is likely to influence the outcome regardless'''

In Summer 386YE, the Lepidean Librarian instructed the Library to [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Research_Tom_Drake|research the life, history, and personal values of Tom Drake]]. The instruction came a season after the Library were asked to look into the life of Vardas, which may have influenced how people feel. The work is now overdue, but it is has become painfully clear that the Library are dragging their feet. They keep asking for more time to check their findings and have dropped veiled hints to the Librarian that they are struggling to meet the expressed goal - to find ''"information on his Legacy can re-inspire that Pride for things, both small and great."''

One of the more traditional archivists, Mattias of Virtue's Rest, has very publicly argued that the work the library is doing goes against years of established Highborn tradition. According to Mattias, the problem with iconoclasm is that ''"smashing shit up is easy and makes you feel great, but after the music stops all you're left with is a pile of broken shit"''. Though his colleagues suggest he was deep in his cups when he said that, he has gone on to repeatedly request that the Library petition the Senate to change their remit to something more acceptable to traditional archivists - claiming that the study of history should be a search for inspiring Virtue rather than miserable facts. These requests have routinely been rebuffed by Leontes the Scribe as inappropriate suggestions from a civil servant working in an official capacity.

In frustration, Mattias has taken the unprecedented step of publicly appealing to the Marcher Assembly to weigh in on this matter. He has informed his superiors that he has written letters to several Marcher priests, imploring the Assembly to consider if they really want the Library to run the risk of besmirching the reputation of the single most important inspirational figure from Marcher history. Most of his friends think he's a fool, pointing out that the Marcher Assembly are no more likely to listen to a lowly archivist than the Highborn Assembly. It's not certain if any of the letters have reached their intended target but officially the civil service has been clear that these letters have no formal standing and the Marcher Assembly has no legal right to interfere in this matter.

The archivists working for the Library are clearly concerned about what they might discover about Tom Drake. The strictly legal interpretation that the Assembly has no right to interfere in this matter may be correct, but any clear statement from the Assembly is likely to be influential in this matter - whether it's "publish and be damned" or something more subtle like an instruction to "find out everything that will add to the inspiration provided by this important Marcher figure".
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Grand Endeavours.png|caption=Inspiration for the grand endeavour has been provided, the ground is being cleared, the first white granite towers begin to rise.|align=left|width=400}}</div>

==The Grand Inspiration==
* '''The Grand Inspiration requires 1000 wains of white granite and 250 thrones'''
* '''To date the project has received 583 wains of white granite and 167 thrones'''
* '''The Highborn Assembly have invited priests from every nation that has contributed to preach at the Grand Inspiration once it is complete'''
* '''Donations from other nations have now stopped and donations from Highguard are waning as the Way is hit by one crisis after another'''
* '''At current rates it will be the best part of a decade for the holy city to be completed'''

The plan for the Grand Inspiration of the Way was conceived in Spring 385YE. The Imperial Senate had asked Naomi of Virtue's Rest to [[appraisal|appraise]] what could be done to [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Pilgrims_of_the_Way|encourage pilgrims of the Way from foreign nations to come to the Empire]] with the explicit intention that Bastion take its rightful place as the birthplace of the Way and diminish the importance of its rival in [[Sumaah_Republic#Timoj|Timoj]]. If Naomi had been able to carry out the appraisal, history might have taken a very different course, but the Senate had already assigned her to a different appraisal and so [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater|Eilian Sweetwater]] was given the task in her place.

Ellian's proposal to create a new holy city of the Way was breath-taking in both scale and grandeur. A contest was arranged to find an artist with the vision to imagine this grand new edifice. The Assembly of Nine [[The_cities_and_the_city#Bastion:_the_Grand_Endeavour|chose to take elements from two designs]]; the sketches by '''Millward Cowley''' that laid out the basic design of the city building on conceptual art by '''Skywise Gralka''' that captured the idea of soaring towers and pealing bells. Together, they formed a plan for a new religious city. All that was needed was a thousand wains of white granite and 250 thrones to build it!

This was easily the largest [[commission]] the Senate has ever authorised, and it was clear it would take years to gather the materials needed. Fortunately, a number of nations were prepared to support the project. The national assemblies of the Marches, [[the Brass Coast]], [[Wintermark]], [[Navarr]], [[the League]], and Dawn all encouraged the Virtuous citizens of their nation to donate wains to support the project. Coupled with the ongoing donations from citizens of Highguard, the people of the Empire donated more than five hundred wains to the project. Sadly, most of those donations have now ended, only the Highborn people are still contributing to the Grand Inspiration of the Way. Without significant additional donations of white granite and money from wealthy citizens who attend Anvil, the civil service estimates it will take approximately ten more years to gather the remaining resources needed.
{{SOP|statement=A year ago, Rafael Barossa d'Apulian called for every citizen of the League to contribute whatever they could to support the raising of the Holy City in Bastion. Once again, the League rose to the challenge. Where others doubted, the League did not fear to act, matching their word with deed. The virtue of every citizen of the League who contributed will echo through history for 1000 years. There is nothing great without cost, and the Highborn recognise the courage in their commitment to building the greatest beacon of the faith the world has ever seen. We invite the League to send a delegation of bishops to teach in Bastion upon its completion. They have earned their place alongside Highguard and should be welcomed to spread their perspective on the way to pilgrims. Only through these bonds of kinship can the great inspiration enable the way to reach every soul in existence.|by=Dagon of the Shattered Tower, Highborn Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 588-18|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE|size=small}}
Most nations of the Empire have done what they can to support the Grand Inspiration - only Varushka, the [[Imperial Orcs]], and [[Urizen]] rejected the call to help. The Varushkans opted to create their own [[The_Deer_in_the_Sun#Constructing_The_Folly_2|Hall of Fabric Arts]] instead, while the Imperial Orcs preferred to build [[The_Deer_in_the_Sun#The_Library_of_Worth|a Library of Worth]]. The Urizen also opted to focus efforts towards their own projects, though their Assembly stopped short of calling it folly.

The Highborn Assembly subsequently passed eloquent statements of principle with a greater majority praising the Virtue of those nations who have contributed, one for every nation that heeded the call. Each carefully worded statement included an explicit invitation to [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_8|the League]], [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_25|Dawn]], [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_33|Wintermark]], [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_32|Navarr]], [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_21|the Brass Coast]], and [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|the Marches]] to send priests to Highguard to spread their perspective on the Way to pilgrims.

These invitations are a proud and virtuous sentiment. The Virtuous inspire others to greatness after all. But what are these priests coming to Highguard going to preach? Bastion is the heart of the Way, the faith began ''here''. Are Marcher priests going to come to the holy city and talk about shriving? Will Dawnish troubadours sing about the Virtues or will they share their belief in the power of glory and love to inspire people? The Synod has said these heterodox ideas are fine, even though they are not supported by the Doctrines of the Faith. It's easy to say that priests coming to Bastion are never going to preach heresy, that would be madness. But then, nobody imagined the Assembly of Nine would embrace a false virtue either...

The problems with Vardas and the situation in the Assembly of Nine have exacerbated the growing fears about heterodoxy and false virtues in the Empire. People agree that the new holy city must be something for the whole Empire, but in Highguard they are increasingly worried at the prospect that the project is fatally flawed. When confidence in the Way was high, people felt positive about building the greatest monument the world has ever seen to showcase their faith. They are significantly less convinced of the Wisdom of that approach when there is no saying what will be preached there. As a result, the donations from Highborn citizens have trailed off to a "mere" ten wains a season. It's not clear when, or even if, that can be restored, but at that rate, that edifice will take more than ten years to complete without significant donations from citizens at Anvil.

Many people are viewing this delay as a ''good'' thing. The Grand Inspiration can still be completed in their lifetime, but now there is time for Highguard and the Synod to contemplate what the Grand Inspiration is truly ''for''. Is it a monument to the Empire, a testament to the power of the nations to work together to create something extraordinary? Is it the beating heart of the Way, a place devoted to the study of the Doctrines of the Faith and the pursuit of virtue, that is free from heterodoxy and the taint of false virtues? If it takes ten years to complete, what will the Way even look like when the capstone is placed?

And some people are asking more profound questions. Why is Highguard pouring their efforts into building this giant monument to the Way, when the faith itself seems to be failing? Is this edifice actually the best way to safeguard the Way? What if [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|Aspar was ''right'']] when he implied the Grand Inspiration was quite literally a folly? The Way is in crisis - again. Surely Highguard should try to shore up the faith itself rather than shoring up the building meant to house it?

==Further Reading==
* [[Life of Vardas]]
* [[Paragons and exemplars]]
* [[Schools of thought]] - Various philosophies regarding paragons and exemplars
* [[Schisms and Heresies]] - popular approaches to the Way that are not entirely mainstream
* [[True faith]] - Autumn 386YE wind of fortune about the post-Vardas crisis

Little faith

2025-04-14T13:04:48Z

RichardRaynor: /* Vines */ caption fix

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:386YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>Arawn pointed at the young boy sat near the front with his hand up. There was an audible groan from the other children that Dradan strenuously ignored. They were a good group of kids, but they knew he was wrapping up. Faelan had promised them he was baking biscuits seasoned with Faraden spices. What child would want to sit and listen to a dusty old guide talking about virtue when they could be stuffing their faces with sweet biscuits?

The answer to that question was Logan apparently. "I don't get it." the boy said to the sound of more groans and a few unkind comments about his intellectual faculties. Kids could be so unkind sometimes.

Arawn pondered the challenge for a moment and then discreetly gestured to Olwen that she could go. She lept to her feet, quickly followed by the others and they scarpered. "Save a biscuit for Logan" he called after them. "Now" he said returning his attention to his one remaining student, "what part of the guidance didn't you follow?"

Logan screwed up his face as he tried to marshal his thoughts. "Tha bit 'bout doin stuff because it's all not finished. And tha bit about testin wha ya learn. They dunt make sense. It's got ta be one or t'other."

"Go on..." the old guide encouraged him.

"Well... either you should'na worry about the fact that you don't know nothing and you should just get on with stuff and do t'thing anyway. Or.. you should try an ask questions and find stuff out. It can'na be both at the same time cannit? T'ast to be one or t'other."

Logan's face fell as Arawn broke into a hearty laugh. "Don't worry Logan" he reassured him. "It's not a stupid question. Quite the opposite, it's the very best question of all."

"How come?" demand his student.

Arawn gathered his robe round his shoulders and turned round so he could sit down next to his pupil. "Well it's like this see. I'm a guide right? So what does a guide do? I help people get where they're going. That's what the Way does you see? It helps you get where you going... " Logan's scrunched his face again clearly unsure of what to make of this.

"Look. You could get to Faelan's house by following the others. Up the hill, straight past the twisted Oak. 'Round Paul's dad's house. Then it's a short walk to Faelan's right? But you don't have to go that way. You could go that way" he pointed off to the left. "Follow the river, down to the bridge, then turn north and walk up the hill to Faelan's house right?"

Logan nodded slowly.

"So the Way can be a little bit like that. It's showing you a bunch of different ways you could go. They'll all take you places - but sometimes the places are different. And sometimes which Way to go is based on where you want to be. There's no one route that's right all the time. That's what being a guide is all about. It's not about telling people where to go - it's about helping them find the Way to where they want to get to."

Logan was clearly not ready for the revelation that the Way wouldn't just tell you what you had to do. To be fair, Arawn had plenty of adults in his congregation who made the same demand. "Think about it." he encouraged. "Go and get a biscuit before they're all gone. But think about it. It might make more sense once you've slept on it."

His young student nodded, then looked around. He seemed to realise for the first time that the others had all left and looked shocked. He lept to his feet and set off up the hill but he stopped before he'd gone a few paces. He stood for a moment as if thinking about something. A moment later, his mind made up, he turned left and headed for the river.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Nathair9261.jpg||caption='''Nathair Autumngale''', [[Advisor on the Vallorn]] and [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#Custodian_of_the_Great_Library|Custodian of the Great Library]], called for the Writ of Consecration.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
The [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Assembly of Wisdom]] has [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_69|called for]] a [[Consecration#True_Liao|true consecration]] of the [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian|Great Library of Hacynian]]. Rather than a [[Inspirational_location#Memorials|memorial]] to an exemplar or paragon they wish to create a [[Inspirational_location#Sacred#Sites|sacred site]], a location that resonates with virtue. A place can only become a sacred site if it has profound spiritual importance in some way. Fortunately, the Library, the place where the way was found to defeat the [[vallorn]] once and for all, more than meets this challenge. It is fast becoming a site of pilgrimage for the [[Navarr]] and the [[Grey Pilgrim|grey pilgrims]] anyway, as people travel from far and wide to study here and read the texts for themselves. It's also a popular destination for scholars who wish to read about Imperial history, as tomes and scrolls collected from many Imperial nations that touch on the vallorn often contain other information of interest to historians.

The [[A_thousand_years_of_longing|revelations]] unearthed by the Great Library are having a profound impact across the Empire. The [[The_war_of_thorns_and_flowers|changes are slow but deep]], as the old rules subside. The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have called their grey pilgrims home, to prepare for the coming war. [[The League]] are applying their ingenuity to the problems, while the [[Varushka|Varushkans]] call on dark pacts to fight the enemy (you can read about some of these impacts in the [[The war of thorns and flowers]] wind of fortune).

Nobody is more affected than the Navarr though. Fighting the vallorn has become a beacon that has guided the nation for a thousand years. For a millennia, war with the vallorn was an entire way of life for the Navarr. The idea of victory was ephemeral, intangible - it was something for the Navarr's descendants, not something any living individual might hope to see. Now that has all changed. The work of the Great Library that has shown that the vallorn can be defeated in our lifetime has inspired people. Now that the final battle with the vallorn is soon to become a reality, it has created a fierce urgency that is spreading like a wildfire through the Navarr.

It is hard for many Navarr to imagine that the General Assembly might reject the proposal. Instead, the librarians and their allies are focused on how best to take advantage of the consecration. As such, there are a pair of opportunities for the Assembly to contemplate.

{{SOP|statement=The Library of Hacynian stands as a site where our Empire, in pursuit of Wisdom, was able to determine the definitive solutions to the thousand year problem of the vallorn in but a single season of dedicated focus. The Wisdom assembly seeks to consecrate this location as a Sacred Site to inspire future pilgrims and priests as a testament to what we can achieve as an Empire when we pursue virtue.|by=Nathair Autumngale, Wisdom Assembly|vote= Greater Majority 354-10|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
==A History of Hacynian==
Until recently, the Great Library was a [[Construct_the_Great_Library_of_Hacynian|surprisingly modest affair]]. In Spring 381YE, a small [[edifice]] was constructed in the ruins of a much larger ruined library that actually dates back to Terunael times. In fact the library takes its name from the ancient Terunael city of Hacynian, the ruins of which are nearby. The site was haunted by ghosts of dead Vard and Navarr warriors for many years, but the ruins were reclaimed by a heroic expedition in 379YE.

The foray uncovered some kind of "Temple of Phaleron" that was constructed in a strange [[regio]] that cycled between the [[Realm#Day|Day]] and [[Realm#Night|Night]] realms. There is evidence that the [[Phaleron|Celestial Library]] was not the only [[eternal]] involved with the location. There is a suggestion that the enigmatic [[Sung|Rainbow Serpent]] was once close to the site as well. There has been no obvious sign of that in recent years, but the Night Singer's influence can be subtle and easily overlooked. Given the breakthroughs achieved since the Library was expanded, it would be unwise to clearly discount the possibility.

The first library was tiny but beautiful. A dozen shelves, each of which contains tomes of history carefully compiled from scrolls, parchments and texts by students of Navarr history. It is no surprise that there is a small shrine to [[Wisdom]] here, lit by a single [[Technology#Lightstones|lightstone]] held by a wooden candlestick with swirling vines carved on its surface. In truth, it was more of a shrine to Wisdom than a thing of substance. As one historian commented, it was the seed from which the Great Library of Hacynian would grow.

In Autumn 384YE, the Imperial Senate considered [[The bones of what you believe|plans to create a new Great Library]], something that could finally unearth the truth about the vallorn. The [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_Library_of_Hacynian|motion was passed]] and 250 thrones disbursed to begin the work. The nation wasted no time in gathering the materials needed so that construction could begin immediately. A year later, it was completed, and the Great Library became a reality as well as a dream.

The new library is a massive structure that is able to house scores of librarians and historians as well as their guests. Poets claim there is enough room for every book in the Empire, and while that is not true, it is a [[Edifice#Grandeur|grand edifice]] whose shelves will take many years to fill completely. The original shrine is still there, but now it barely suffices to contain the throngs that are visiting the Library every day. If the site is to be consecrated with [[Liao#True Liao|true liao]], those pressures will need to be dealt with.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Wisdom.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
==Guidance==
* '''Three proposals have been prepared for the Writ of Consecration'''
* '''Only ''one'' of the proposals can be enacted'''
The residents of the Great Library have helped the civil service prepare three proposals for the true liao consecration to Wisdom. All three of these proposals require a majority decision by the General Assembly. As usual with such competing judgements, if two or more judgements in favour of different choices pass, the one with the greatest margin will be chosen.

===Apply What You Have Learned===
* '''The Library could become a place for scholars to study and expand the Empire's knowledge'''
Wisdom teaches that the Virtuous apply what they have learned because they know that all knowledge is incomplete. Learned scholars of Wisdom will often point out that this [[Wisdom#Guidance_on_the_Path|guidance]] is trying to urge devotees ''not'' to constantly chase new learning. People should not worry that they don't know everything before they act, because all knowledge is ''always'' incomplete. If you allow action to be stymied by the fact that you don't yet know everything then you never achieve anything at all. By contrast, the Virtuous should apply what they have learned.

In practice, people often quote the final part of the guidance in isolation and take it as instruction that more study is needed. The Great Library was built to study the vallorn, to pool the knowledge that people already possessed and then disseminate it across the Empire. By spreading the information far and wide, the scholars hoped to inspire the Virtuous to apply what they had learned. The great success of the library has inspired people to embrace that sentiment. The General Assembly could use the following mandate to stress the first precept of Wisdom.
{{Mandate|assembly=General Assembly|mandate=The Virtuous apply what they have learned. We send {named priest} with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Great Library of Hacynian to Wisdom. All knowledge is incomplete.}}
If this mandate is passed, then for the next year, it will allow the Wisdom Assembly to use a [[judgement]] to select one of three subjects chosen by the scholars of the Great Library to research. These would have to be areas of interest to the scholars - these are not civil servants being paid for their work like those employed by the [[Historical_research#The_Department_of_Historical_Research|Department of Historical Research]], who can be directed as the [[Imperial Senate|Senate]] wishes. The outcome would be similar, a short piece of text summarising their findings which the scholars would pass to the civil service to disseminate before each summit. Once the work was complete, the Wisdom Assembly could then ask the scholars to work on another topic from their list.

At the moment there are three areas that interest the scholars - they are;

* '''Vates:''' There are hundreds of [[vate|vates]] in the Navarr, so many that people often consider them nothing more than the Navarr word for a [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]]. Yet there is surprisingly little information published about vates by the civil service. The scholars propose to dig into the history of the vates and compile and publish their findings on their history and role in the Navarr.

* '''Empress Giselle:''' The life and history of [[Empress Giselle]] is already a matter of public record, but how exactly did she die? There have been rumours for years that she was murdered, but if that is the case then who did it and why? The scholars are keen to probe the mystery of Giselle's death and share the findings with the rest of the Empire.

* '''The Volodny: ''' Many terrible actions are ascribed to the [[volodny]], including the creation of [[Alderei the Fair]]. They are said to be immortal sorcerors who have hidden their hearts outside their bodies. Is that really possible or is it just a myth? The Great Library has unearthed a trove of information on the vallorn, but there might be something to be discovered about another ancient enemy of the Empire.

===Test What You Learn===
* '''The Library could become a place for Imperial magicians to meet and work together'''
The fourth precent of Wisdom instructs the Virtuous to test what they learn and warns that only fools accept hearsay as truth. This guidance is intended to remind the Virtuous that incredulity can be a virtue. Things should not be taken as fact simply because someone expresses them with a confident air, nor because they flatter the listeners' prejudice. The wise remain alert to the possibility of falsehood and error at all times. Everything can be challenged and there is great learning in rejecting even the longest-held assumptions.

It is often noted that this guidance seems to conflict with the precept that urges the Virtuous to take action and not to wait until all knowledge is complete. Some guides who are challenged on this will claim that these paradoxes are central to the Way. The faith of the Empire doesn't tell you what to do, it provides you with Wisdom that guides you to a Virtuous path.

The information shared by the Great Library has left people with a thirst to test what they know. The theory for how to combine the vallornhearts is there, but it is likely to require a great mastery of Spring magic to carry out. The General Assembly could use a mandate to urge those magicians who are currently visiting the Library to test what they know.

Test what you learn; only fools accept hearsay as truth.

{{Mandate|assembly=General Assembly|mandate=Only fools accept hearsay as truth. We send {named priest} with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Great Library of Hacynian to Wisdom. Let the magicians of every nation test what we have learned.}}

If this mandate is passed, then for the next year, it will allow the General Assembly to use a statement of principle to choose a single [[arcane projection]] to be codified by the magicians and scholars who are visiting the Great Library at a rate of 25 ranks of magnitude each season. If the Library completes a ritual before the end of the year, then the General Assembly could select a new ritual to work on in the remaining time. The completed ritual text will be delivered to whichever priest raised the original statement choosing the ritual.

===Find the Right Question===
* '''The Library could become a place to embrace reason and intuition'''
The third precept of Wisdom teaches humility, reminding devotees that Wisdom is not always about knowing the answer. True Wisdom is only found by asking the right question. It urges people to think outside the constraints of what is accepted, to question the assumptions, and find a different way to consider problems. So many of the great discoveries of the world began by someone thinking to ask the right question.

Books and learning can only take a scholar so far. The [[Kallavesi]] claim there is an essential mysticism in Wisdom, a paradoxical truth in which ignorance frees you of your assumptions. The more certain you are of your knowledge, the harder it is to question it. When you empty your mind of everything you know what is left is everything you don't know. In the [[Mystic|mystic tradition]], Wisdom is found in the spaces between learning.

The Great Library has an old history, a deep history that predates the revelations of the vallorn. There were truths found here before the formation of the Empire. There was Wisdom here before the fall of the Terunael. Night Singer's touch is feather-light here, but there are a few scholars who believe that it was crucial in the success that Library enjoyed uncovering the secrets of the vallorn. Those who slept near the regio or walked there at night experienced strange dreams and visions that some believe were sent by the Everflowing River helped them find the right questions.

Spiral Dancer is not the only eternal connected with this place. Phaleron, who many called the Celestial Library, is known to claim the day regio at the heart of the Great Library. There has been little direct communication with the eternal, he has not spoken with mortals here since the original expedition to clear the ghosts from the ruins. But it cannot be a coincidence that the Empire has raised this Great Library around a regio claimed by the eternal who is variously called the Celestial Library, the Great Library and sometimes the Coral Library.

The General Assembly could encourage the librarians to embrace both of the patrons of the regio at the heart of the Great Library in the hope that this would better enable the Empire to ask the right questions.

{{Mandate|assembly=General Assembly|mandate=Wisdom is not always knowing the answer. We send {named priest} with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Great Library of Hacynian to Wisdom. Let us embrace the Silence and the Song and search for the right question in the space between Night and Day.}}

If this mandate is passed, then the Wisdom Assembly could appoint a single Imperial magician to act as the ''Singer of the Silence''. The Singer would need to engage with the two powers of the Night and Day realms that are present at Hacynian, [[Sung|Night Singer]] and the [[Phaleron|Archives of Silence]] to try and unlock the potential of the enigmatic regio. It is not clear what the benefits of this would be - but if they were successful the Singer might be granted mystical abilities by the two eternals = akin to those abilities gained by the [[Guardian of the Maze of Zoria]]. But the only way to find out what they might be, would be to try it.

==Vines==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''The Vinery'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Sinecure</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Any Navarr controlled region</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 7 white granite, 7 weirwood, and 42 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Creates the title ''Keeper of the Vinery''</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Keeper of the Vinery'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Navarr</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' National Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Benefits:'''
* Receives fifteen herbs every season
* Receives a [[Bloodcloak]] once a year
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To encourage partnership among the vines at Anvil</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Only works if a vine is appointed to the title</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The work at the Library has inspired the nascent vines movement'''
* '''A vinery could be commissioned to serve as a meeting place for vines'''
* '''A ''Keeper of the Vinery'' could be appointed to help secure valuable herbs'''
The scholars and historians of the Great Library are not the only ones inspired by the knowledge on the vallorn that has been shared. For years the Navarr healers at Anvil have encouraged their fellow practitioners of the healing arts to embrace the oaths of the [[vine]]. There was a great deal of resistance to this change at first - the magic of the egregore bond helps to keep a nation strong, but it can make it harder for a nation's culture to adapt and grow. The vines did not relent however, and now their persistence has been rewarded.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Vine.jpg|align=right|caption=The vines are oath bound to heal anyone who fights the vallorn.|width=200}}</div>
The realisation that the vallorn can be purged in their lifetime has sparked a fire among the nation's healers. Now that the last battle with the vallorn is about to begin, more healers are embracing the ideal of a life dedicated to healing the greatest wound the world has ever known. ('''OOC Note: ''' the [[vine]] [[archetype]] has been added to the wiki and the game).

The Navarr could try to capitalise on this new tradition by commissioning a vinery, either here at Hacynian or anywhere in a region that the Navarr control. The proposal is for a simple construction of stone and wood but rather than growing herbs directly, it would serve as a meeting place for vines across the nation to come together, discuss ways to partner with each other and find ways that they can work to heal the vallorn.

If a well-recognised vine in good standing were appointed as the ''Keeper of the Vinery'' they would gain an income of fifteen herbs each season - donations from the vines visiting the Vinery. Initially, these would be three of each of the basic herbs, but the Assembly could use a Statement of Principle to spread the word of which herbs to bring. If that was upheld with a greater majority, vines would know to bring more of the requested herb instead, increasing the production of that herb in the following season at the cost of the others.

In addition, if the Vinery is built, then Navarr artisans have promised to create a powerful magical item, a [[Bloodcloak]], to donate to the Keeper of the Vinery each year. It is hoped that the vines at Anvil might use the coming year to find someone who might create a suitable garment, a cloak befitting a vine in good standing. The artisans could then re-enchant that cloak each season, creating a fitting piece of regalia for the Keeper of the Vinery.

==Further Reading==
* [[Writ of consecration]]
* [[Wisdom]]
* [[Vine]]

Glossary

2025-04-11T21:09:37Z

RichardRaynor: link fix

[[Category:Rules]]
This page is intended to help with understanding common terms used in Empire and LRP as a whole. We expect this page to be updated on a semi-regular basis as more terms come to light. Any queries or suggestions for additions to this page can be sent to [mailto:wiki@profounddecisions.co.uk wiki@profounddecisions.co.uk]
<table class='wikitable sortable'><tr><th>Term</th><th>Explanation</th></tr>
<tr><td> Abstraction layer </td><td> Parts of the system or setting that are technically present but aren’t what the game is about. For example, the manufacture of toilet paper in the setting is considered “below the abstraction layer”. This is often used to deal with logistical or pragmatic features that make the game easier OC, but might be hard to explain IC. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[General#Appoint_an_Adjutant|Adjutant]] </td><td> A special kind of “proxy”, for Generals only. If a General dies, their Adjutant is not automatically removed and can wield the powers of their General and command their army until a new general is appointed.

Adjutants can also be removed by the [[revocation]] of the general that appointed them, or by their general being subject to a successful [[Writ of Excommunication|writ of excommunication]].</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Anvil]]</td><td> The tent-city settlement where Empire events take place in character. Each nation has its own camp, along with various political, magical, and cultural structures. The capital of the Empire.

When you come to Empire LRP, this is the place where your characters are. In the world of the game, it is located in Casinea, a territory belonging to Highguard. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Apothecary]]</td><td> Apothecary is a skill characters can learn which allows them to make potions. Players with this skill may refer to themselves as an “apothecary” as a description of the services they can provide.

Apothecaries start knowing how to mix the five basic apothecary potions. They can learn additional sets of recipes. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Appropriate roleplay </td><td> A term used for when a character needs to do something to signify they’re using a skill. Examples can be as simple as letting out a warcry as you prepare to call CLEAVE with a sword or as complex as a ten minute play when performing a ritual. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Arcane projection|Arcane Projection]]</td><td> An arcane projection (sometimes called an ‘AP’ both IC and OC) is a piece of paper that allows a magician or group of magicians to cast a magical ritual. Rituals from arcane projections can only be used once.

Arcane projections are created by players between events using the Profound Decisions website. A player must have ten mana crystals in their character inventory to create an arcane projection, which are consumed in the process.

Not every arcane projection idea submitted by players will successfully create a castable ritual.

It is possible to turn an arcane projection into a ritual that can be used repeatedly by codifying it in a [[college of magic]].</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Crafting_skills#Artisan|Artisan]]</td><td> Artisans start with knowledge of how to make four magic items. They have three months worth of time they can use during downtime to craft them. Most magic items take one month and a number of the materials from mines and forests to make. Some take two months but cost no materials to make. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ballgowning </td><td> The roleplaying of flirting and/or romantic relationships with another character or characters. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Bands|Band]]</td><td> The out-of-character catch-all term used for a Banner, Coven, or Sect. All members of a band have sworn the same in-character oath. A character can only be in one of each type of band at any given time. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banner (group) </td><td> A band of people from the same Nation, often focused on fighting. Members can benefit from being additional targets of certain rituals. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banner (object) </td><td> A piece of fabric on some sort of stick with a group emblem on it. Can also be a magic item see [[:Category:Magic Standards|magic standards]] and [[:Category:Gonfalon|gonfalons]]. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Barbarian]]</td><td>A member of a nation that the Empire is at war with, and so is not protected by the laws of the Empire. You can find a list of nations the Empire is at war with [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Declaration_of_War|here]]. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Barbarian money </td><td> Sometimes ‘Barbarian coin’, a common term used by participants for out-of-character money. Most of the traders in Traders’ Row and the OC traders’ area will charge OC money for their goods. It is not something that barbarians carry around for people to loot. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Base Layers </td><td> Your base layers are the items of clothing that are not iconically belonging to your character and, ideally, not identifiable as a specific nation. For most people, this means a plain pair of trousers or leggings and a basic larp shirt or tunic in neutral colours.

If you hear or see the phrase ‘turn up to monster in base layers’, the aim is that you look generic enough that pieces of monster costume can be added on top of your kit.

You will more commonly see requests to turn up to monster in base layers, plus any specifically coloured kit that would be helpful to that day’s battle or encounter. For example, “base layers and any red kit” is a common request for monstering as Jotun orcs, who wear a lot of red. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Battle </td><td> Starts at 11:00 on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Which nations are fighting on which battle is decided by the military council. If you battle one day you must volunteer to monster the other day. If you are monstering then you need to be at the monster tent for 09:30. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bleed </td><td> Experiencing heightened emotions out of character as a result of roleplay that you have engaged in. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bleed time (see ‘death count’) </td><td> How long your character can survive on 0 hits; this starts at three minutes, but can be increased by buying specific skills, and decreased with antagonistic calls or effects. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Civil Servant/CS </td><td> A member of Profound Decisions crew who plays an NPC Civil Servant character. Civil Servants administer the civil functions which keep the Empire running, chairing meetings, running elections and providing advice as needed. They are specialists in the different agencies of state. They often wear imperial purple with golden horse insignia. They are playing characters while in the field but are there to help. They are good people to speak to for advice on getting involved with different areas of the game. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sentinel Gate#Conjunctions|Conjunction]]</td><td> At a main Empire event, this refers to a plot encounter that you participate in by leaving the Anvil field. A Conjunction is when you go through the Sentinel Gate; these are scheduled adventures which are for a predetermined number of people to a specific place, you might find out about them through the Winds of Fortune, through another player or a NPC you meet in Anvil. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Coven]]</td><td> A band of mages from the same Nation focused on casting magic rituals. Each coven is able to perform two rituals each day. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Crew </td><td> Crew are the volunteers who perform the tasks necessary for the event to run. There are a huge number of different crew responsible for the event, including the hygiene team, online moderators, the skirmish team, and the field and role NPCs. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Combat#Dying|Death count]] (see ‘bleed time’) </td><td> This starts when you get to 0 hits and is three minutes (180 seconds) as standard. You are considered to be dying during this count. You can talk and scream as much as you want but you can take no other IC action. You stop dying if you regain a hit for any reason. If you get to the end of this count then you are either dead or terminal. When you are healed from dying then your death count resets - e.g. Alex falls to the ground after reaching 0 hits and starts dying, so they begin their count of three minutes. One minute later Adam reaches them and heals them with the heal spell. The next time Alex falls over they will still have a count of three minutes. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Downtime </td><td> The time between each event. Some personal resources and skills allow you to do things during downtime like fleets trading with a foreign port, or an artisan crafting magic armour. Details specific to each downtime are on the interlude page of the wiki released shortly after each event. We aim for downtime to be open the week after the event is run and generally closes after a week. Once downtime is closed the decisions made are locked in. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Drop </td><td> Sometimes called “event drop”, the low mood, tears or heightened emotions that come after an event, due to factors such as, for example, coming down from an emotional high or dealing with an unexpected character death. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Egregore]] </td><td> A member of Profound Decisions crew who plays an NPC to support members of a nation. There is at least one egregore in each nation and they are part of the wider player support team. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Eternal]] </td><td> The most powerful inhabitants of the magical realms. There are several Eternals from each realm that are interested in the Empire. Eternals are served in the Empire by their Heralds - it is quite rare to meet an Eternal in person, and some of them have never been encountered physically. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fic </td><td> Fiction - Stories or poems written about larp characters, situations or settings. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Calls#FIRST_AID|First Aid]] (call) (see Safety (call)) </td><td> A call that someone has suffered a real injury. If you hear this call then stop fighting and kneel down, and await further instructions from the crew. Sometimes, players may call ‘Man Down’ - this is an old-fashioned call that means the same thing, but is not good form. </td></tr>
<tr><td> FOIP/Find Out In Play </td><td> This means that the answer to your question cannot be given out of character, and you’ll discover it, or not, within the game. Everything published on the Empire wiki is publicly available information that any character can know. Some things - such as a character’s motivations or things that occur whilst at events - can only be learned whilst in character at an event. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Foreign nations|Foreign]]/Foreigner </td><td> A member of a nation that the Empire is not at war with, and so is protected by the laws of the Empire. You can find a list of the known nations of the world that the Empire is not at war with here. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Froth </td><td> Enthusing with other participants about an event or system before or after playing it. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Game lever </td><td> An action that can be performed by players to affect the game world. The most common of these are the judgements that every member of the Synod can raise, but they include motions for senators, declarations in the conclave, appraisals through the senate, and plenipotentiaries from the archmages. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[GOD]]/GOD Tent </td><td> Games Operation Desk - At Empire, a fixed point on site where player admin is done from. A large tent staffed by God Team volunteers who issue character packs, deal with player admin (potions and such) and are a point of contact for all queries if someone is unsure where else to go. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Anvil#The_Hall_of_Worlds|Hall of Worlds]]/HoW </td><td> A part of the in-character field which is only easily accessible to magicians. Adjacent to the Imperial Regio, and the venue for Conclave during an event. Occasionally, other encounters will happen there. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Hearth magic|Hearth Magic]] </td><td> Hearth magics are National effects, themes, and tropes, and beliefs that OC make the game more vibrant and more fun. They tend to make PCs more dramatic, like characters from a story. There are no formal rules behind it - players can lean into hearth magic as much or as little as they want to. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Herald]] </td><td> A herald is a representative of an Eternal that can journey to Anvil. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Combat#Global_Hits|Hits]]/Hit Points/Health </td><td> The total amount of damage you can take before dropping to your bleed/death count. There are certain calls and effects that might immediately drop you to 0 hits, but this number is the total amount of times you can be hit by a normal weapon without any calls being made. After two hours of rest and relaxation - not engaging in combat - you regain all lost hits. </td></tr>
<tr><td> IC </td><td> In Character, when you are acting or speaking as your character, when something is a thing as part of the game. For example - “Really they said that IC!”, “I’m going to use this bag IC to carry snacks and water around”, “Can you help me carry this down to the IC camp” </td></tr>
<tr><td> Immersion </td><td> When you are so drawn into a game that your experience is not disrupted by out-of-character elements. “I was so immersed I didn’t see the car behind the tent!” “That beer can was so jarring it really ruined my immersion.” </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Anvil#The_Imperial_Regio|Imperial Regio]] </td><td> Sometimes just called ‘the Regio’, A part of the in-character field which is linked to the rest of the Empire. Casting a ritual in the Imperial Regio has certain effects - the main one being that it increases your effective ritual lore by one. Other Regios outside of Anvil are usually attuned to one specific Magical Realm and only increase that Lore. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Imperial title]]</td><td> An official position recognised by the civil service. Characters can gain an imperial title by being elected by other players or purchasing the right to hold the title using in-game currency or resources. An Imperial title usually comes with a power the title holder can use or some other benefit. This can be extra income, control of an army, or responsibility to negotiate with a foreign nation. Sometimes this is called a ‘hat’ OC, as in ‘They can’t stand for that title, they’ve already got another hat’. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Keen </td><td> Being excited before an event </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lammy/lammie </td><td> A laminated card, usually but not exclusively credit card sized. This probably imparts some sort of Game information. Some games have them as character cards giving character details. At Empire the most common form of lammy is a potion or traumatic wound. You may also find them on a tent or structure with an aura on it. They will explain what is happening in that area and anything you should be aware of that affects your character in that area. They are OC but contain pertinent information that would affect your character IC. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Lineage]] </td><td> An option a player can take to apply make-up or prosthetics to their character and get additional roleplaying cues. In character, the lineages are one of six (Briar, Cambion, Changeling, Draughir, Merrow, and Naga) manifestations of the realm on a human. The lineaged are fully human but are linked to one of the six realms. Orcs cannot be lineaged. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Linear </td><td> This is a generic term used in LARPs for an encounter (usually combat and/or plot related) that a small group of PCs will go on away from base. In Empire, these are usually referred to as Conjunctions, Encounters, or Skirmishes. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Long Dark </td><td> The break between E4 one year and E1 the next. As the downtime between each event, IC, is around three months, and OC is over six months, this is a nod to the time lag IC and to the length of time before we can get back to a field! </td></tr>
<tr><td> Longest Dark </td><td> The pandemic years - this was the longest break between Empire events: from E4 2019 until E1 2022. IC time did not extend over the time period, so two and a half OC years passed over the course of three IC months. </td></tr>
<tr><td> LRP </td><td> LRP (or Larp, LARP, larp, Live Roleplaying or Live Action Roleplaying) is a form of role-playing game where the participants physically portray their characters. You can argue forever (and some people will) about the “A” but it’s still the same hobby! </td></tr>
<tr><td> Magnitude </td><td> Ritual magnitude (sometimes just called ‘mag’) is a numerical value given to a ritual which indicates how difficult it will be to perform; the higher the number, the more potent the effect and the more ritualists are needed to contribute. Please see [[Rituals#Basic_Rules|here]] for a guide on how to achieve numbers. </td></tr>
<tr><td> MattCave </td><td> A shipping container office next to the Monster Tent where the Game Team are based during events. Named after Matt Pennington, because that is where he lives for the course of events when he’s not allowed out to play. Sometimes called the ‘MattBox’. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Monster Tent </td><td> A big tent in the Out of Character area where Plot Production is based. This is where all the plot happens, NPCs get briefed, costumed, made up and dispatched. </td></tr>
<tr><td> NPC </td><td> Non-player character. A character written by the plot team or with a game area in mind, and played by a crew member. Examples include egregores, foreign dignitaries, and enemies encounters on skirmishes.</td></tr>
<tr><td> OC/OOC </td><td> Out of Character, when you are not playing your character, when something is not part of the game. For example - “It’s almost time in, let's put all the OC stuff away so the camp can be IC” “if you’re cold go and put your OC jumper on under your kit, no one will mind” “Hi, I’m Clare OC, we met earlier IC and I wanted to check in with you because I had fun role playing with you and hope you did too!” </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Participant welfare|Participant Welfare]]</td><td> Sometimes called ‘PW’, they are a team that exists to help participants who are experiencing out-of-character emotional distress during the game. They can be contacted by anyone with a radio (crew, refs, Egregores), and will come to you in the field if you need them. </td></tr>
<tr><td> PD </td><td> Profound Decisions - the company that runs the Empire game </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Personal resource|Personal Resource]] </td><td> Every player chooses one type of personal resource and what territory it is based in when their character is created. Some personal resources also give voting rights in elections for senators or on bourse seats. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Physrep </td><td> Short for “physical representation”. The physical object that represents an in-game object. For example, a latex and foam sword represents a metal sword. Occasionally, players are referred to as phys reps of their characters; this isn’t a common usage and some people find it unfriendly. </td></tr>
<tr><td> PID/CID </td><td> Player Identification/Character Identification - Your PID is your unique identification number for the game. It’s useful to quote it in any emails you might need to send to us to make it easier to find you on our system. Your CID is your character’s unique identification number and is made up of your PID and the number of your character (so your second character's CID will be your PID.2) Your CID is used in some areas of the game like bonding to magic items or ritual magic. You can also write your PID on any items you might lose and want to easily recover from lost property, like arrows, mugs, bags, scarves, anything detachable and loseable! </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Proxy|Proxy]] </td><td> Most imperial titleholders are entitled to appoint a “proxy” of their choice. The proxy can use the powers of the Imperial Title if the named title holder is not using them or is absent from the game. You cannot be a proxy for an Imperial title if you already hold an Imperial title. If the named title holder dies, the proxy is no longer valid and cannot use the powers of the title. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quest </td><td> This is a generic term used in LARPs for an encounter (usually combat and/or plot related) that a small group of PCs will go on away from base. In Empire, these are usually referred to as Conjunctions, Encounters, or Skirmishes. </td></tr>
<tr><td> RAT/Ref Access Tent </td><td> A Profound Decisions tent inside the lower gate to the Dawn/Wintermark field which contains a referee desk and can carry out limited referee function from time in until late evening. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Realm]] </td><td> One of six (Autumn, Day, Night, Spring, Summer, and Winter) magical realms that are adjacent to the mortal realm. Home of the eternals and heralds. Ritual magicians use the power of the realms to perform powerful rituals. Each of the lineages is tied to one of the realms. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Referee|Ref]]/Referee </td><td> A member of Profound Decisions crew who is responsible for the application of the rules and processing of game functions. Some functions can be carried out by other members of the crew (GOD or civil servants and egregores with tablets), but a rules call needs to be made by a referee. They can be found at the Ref Desk in the God Tent at a tent by the Imperial Regio or the RAT in the Wintermark/Dawn field. Referees wear yellow and black quartered jackets and tabards, and they all have a radio. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ribbon </td><td> A ribbon is a literal ribbon with information printed on it to denote there is something special about the object it is attached to. The most common ribbons are magic items created by artisans but others exist. Each ribbon has a unique ribbon number that is linked to an entry on the database. A ribbon may have information printed on it that will indicate if the object has an effect on a character. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Ritual]] </td><td> A ritual is a powerful spell that magicians can perform together as a coven. They tend to use mana crystals and each one calls on one of the Realms. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Roleplay effect </td><td> A description of emotions and feelings which your character is experiencing, usually delivered by a card, on a ribbon, or a ref explaining the effect. In Empire, these never dictate how a character reacts - how a character responds to a roleplaying effect is up to the player. For example, if a roleplay effect says ‘’you feel a surge of anger’’ then you can choose to respond by screaming in rage, or by leaving the area, or however you think fits your character. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Calls#FIRST_AID|Safety (call)]] (see First Aid (call)) </td><td> A call that someone has suffered a real injury. If you hear this call then stop fighting and kneel down, and await further instructions from the crew. Sometimes, players may call ‘Man Down’ - this is an old-fashioned call that means the same thing, but is not good form.</td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Sect]]</td><td> A band focused on performing religious ceremonies, who must be from the same Nation. Members of a sect can contribute to a ceremony even if they are not dedicated to the same Virtue. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Sentinel Gate]]</td><td> A large archway on the in-character field that allows characters to teleport to various parts of the Empire. Each event the Sentinel Gate can be “opened” by a magician to allow access to skirmishes and encounters at specific times, and allows a set number of people to pass through. It isn’t possible for characters to direct where the Sentinel Gate goes. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Skirmish </td><td> At a main Empire event, this refers to a combat encounter that you participate in by leaving the Anvil field via the Sentinel Gate. A Skirmish is generally a combat encounter on the skirmish field or in the woods, found via a Conjunction. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Snazz </td><td> Short for Snazaroo, a popular brand of water-activated facepaint used in larp for decades. It is also used as a verb for getting made-up as a character “‘’Go and get snazzed!’’” </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Imperial sodality|Sodality]] </td><td> A cross-national interest group. This can either be unofficial or officially recognised. If it’s an official Imperial Sodality, it will have, at minimum, a statement of purpose, a sign by which it can be recognised, and a Speaker formally appointed by the Sodality itself. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Combat#Terminal|Terminal]] </td><td> At the end of your character’s bleed time/death count you can choose to either die or become terminal. A character who is terminal is dying and cannot be saved - they cannot regain hits from any source - but can continue roleplaying for the rest of the event. The character will die before the start of the next Empire main event. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Calls#TIME_FREEZE|Time freeze]] (call) </td><td> If a ref calls ‘Time freeze’, you should stop moving, fighting, or talking, and listen for further instructions. This is a safety call and must be respected. Once the safety issue has been dealt with, the ref will call ‘Time in’ and the game will resume. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Time in/time out </td><td> Time in is when the in-character field is considered active for the game - from 18.00 Friday till 01.00 Saturday, from 10.00 Saturday till 01.00 Sunday, and from 10.00 Sunday till 15.00 Sunday.

Time out is when it’s not. This technically covers the period between events too, but it’s generally used to refer to the time between 01:00 and 10:00 at Empire events. Roleplaying can still happen, but there is no plot or ref support during this time. </td></tr>
<tr><td> Traumagowning </td><td> Seeking out roleplay with a focus on angst and conflict. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|Traumatic wound]] </td><td> A wound card which represents a difficult to treat condition that affects a character. Each one has four sections: patient rules (what to do if you have not had it treated and any restrictions); patient roleplaying (a description of how the injury feels); physick information (information for the physick on how to treat it); and untreated information (what happens if the wound is untreated). </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Recent_history|Winds of Fortune]] </td><td> A set of pages added to the Empire Wiki prior to each event, which contain information about ongoing and upcoming game plot. Any player character is welcome to know as much of this information as they would like.

Each “wind” usually contains a little bit of in-world fiction depicting NPC’s reacting to the situation, a longer piece of prose describing the situation in in-character language, and a short summary and bullet points of possible actions players can take to advance the plot. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Recent_history|Winds of War]] </td><td> A set of pages added to the Empire Wiki prior to each event, which contain information about ongoing military campaigns of the Empire that takes into account the orders of generals, rituals cast by covens, support from military units and other relevant actions.

Each “wind” is written as a piece of prose describing the campaign in in-character language, and has a summary at the end detailing complications and ongoing effects. </td></tr>
<tr><td> [[Skills|XP]] </td><td> Sometimes called just ‘points’, this is short for ‘Experience Points’. A character starts with 8 points they can spend on skills. You gain one additional XP after the first and third event you attend each year. You can ‘reclaim’ XP you’ve spent on a character by ‘un-spending’ it and losing access to one skill to spend on different skills. Unspent XP (not including the starting 8) is saved between characters, but spent XP is locked to a single character even if you reclaim it. </td></tr>

Category:Inspirations

2025-03-25T19:54:41Z

RichardRaynor: Speaker for the Dead, Ozren de Orzel, Dogri Thulebane

===Paragons and Exemplars===
{| class="wikitable sortable" style = "text-align:center"
! style="width: 20%"|Name
!! style="width: 10%"| Virtue
!! style="width: 10%"|Status
!! style="width: 30%"|Recognised
|-
| style = "text-align:left"|Achilles of Damakan's Forge ||Prosperity|||Exemplar|||[[382YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement 18|382YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Adelmar the Lion]] || Ambition || Exemplar || 176YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Aldones di Sarvos]] || Ambition || Paragon || 23YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Atuman]] || Ambition || Exemplar || Pre-Imperial paragon ratified 3YE. Exemplar 23YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Atun]] || Wisdom || Paragon || Pre-Imperial ratified 3YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Avigliana di Sarvos]] || Wisdom || Exemplar || 76YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Berechiah]] || Vigilance || Exemplar || 302YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Bolstering Bill (Exemplar)|Bolstering Bill]] || Loyalty || Exemplar || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Chernobog of the Vor’azi || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[380YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements|380YE Spring]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left"| [[Cora Holdfast]] || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements|379YE Summer]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Damaris of Cantiarch’s Hold || Courage || Exemplar || [[377YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements|377YE Summer]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Dogri Thulebane || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[386YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement_5|386YE Summer]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Torchbearer#History|Didactylos of Delving]] || Wisdom || Exemplar || Unrecorded, after 72YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Elayne Silverlark|Lady Elayne Silverlark]] || Loyalty || Exemplar || Pre-Imperial ratified 18YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Emperor Ahraz]] || Courage || Exemplar || [[378YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements| 378YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Empress Richilde]] || Pride || Paragon || 219YE (72YE Exemplar)
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Gerallt Brackensong || Pride || Exemplar || [[382YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement 6|382YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Gilda Ashwine]] || Courage || Exemplar || Unrecorded. Renounced 106YE. Recognised again 186YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Good Walder]] || Prosperity || Paragon || 0YE - 22YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Inga Tarn]] || Courage || Exemplar || 308YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Isaella]] || Courage || Exemplar || 213YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Isenbrad]] || Wisdom || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Joshua Benson || Vigilance || Exemplar || [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements|379YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Juha the Cave Spider || Loyalty || Exemplar || [[384YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement 3|384YE Autumn Equinox]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Kala]] || Wisdom || Exemplar || 28YE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Kethry]] || Pride || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Korl]] || Courage || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Lepidus]] || Pride || Paragon || Pre-Imperial ratified 18YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Long Tom Goodfellow]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || 56YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Mani of the Scions of Atun || Wisdom || Exemplar || [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements| 379YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Margaret of Meade || Ambition || Exemplar || [[Old_ways#Margaret_of_Meade|272YE]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Mother Od also known as [[Mitwold#Oddmire|Odd of Odd's End]] || Pride || Exemplar || [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements| 376YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Navarr || Wisdom || Exemplar || [[381YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements| 381YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Nicolo Barossa]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || [[377YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements|377YE Winter]]. Failed renouncement [[378YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements| 378YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Olga of Miekarova || Vigilance || Exemplar || [[377YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements|377YE Autumn]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Olwyn the Witness || Pride || Exemplar || [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements|376YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Ozren de Orzel || Pride || Exemplar || [[385YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements#Judgement_3|385YE Winter]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Permion]] || Courage || Exemplar || Highborn Civil War
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Ratibor of Temeschwar]] || Ambition || Exemplar || [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements|379YE Summer]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Skywise Rykana || Wisdom || Exemplar || [[382YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement 17|382YE Autumn]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Speaker for the Dead || Pride|| Exemplar || [[385YE Spring_Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement_3|385YE Spring]]
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[The Little Mother]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || 50BE
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[The Marked]] || Loyalty || Paragon || Unrecorded
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[The Sentinel]] || Vigilance || Paragon || Pre-Imperial ratified 1YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | Thorn || Ambition || Exemplar || [[380YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements| 380YE Summer]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | Thrace || Ambition || Exemplar || [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements|379YE Spring]]
|-
| style = "text-align:left" | [[Tian]] || Ambition || Paragon || 1YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Zemress]] || Prosperity || Exemplar || 223YE
|-
|style = "text-align:left" | [[Zoria]] || Wisdom || Paragon || Unrecorded
|}

Known exemplars

2025-03-25T19:49:05Z

RichardRaynor:

==Overview==
There are countless exemplars who are known to have been [[recognition|recognized]] by the [[Imperial Synod]], but whose life and deeds are not yet renowned throughout the Empire. The list is updated whenever new exemplars are recognized by the Imperial Synod or records of past exemplars are recovered.

==Recent Exemplars==
This is a definitive list of all the exemplars recognized in recent times.
===Gerallt Brackensong===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] by the Synod in the [[382YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Skywise Rykana===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod in the [[382YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Achilles of Damakan's Forge===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod in the [[382YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements ]].

===Mani of the Scions of Atun===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]]. Initially rejected by the Synod in the [[378YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Joshua Benson===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Vigilance]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Chernobog of the Vor’azi===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod in the [[380YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===[[Cora Holdfast]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod.

===[[Emperor Ahraz]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod in the [[378YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].
===Navarr===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod in the [[381YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Thorn===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod in the [[380YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Thrace===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===[[Ratibor of Temeschwar]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod in the [[379YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].

===[[Nicolo Barossa]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod in the [[377YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]]. An attempt to revoke the status was rejected by the Synod in the
[[378YE Spring Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Olga of Miekarova===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Vigilance]] by the Synod in the [[377YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements]].

===Damaris of Cantiarch’s Hold===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod in the [[377YE Summer Solstice Synod judgements]].

===Mother Od===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] by the Synod in the [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]]. Also known as [[Mitwold#Oddmire|Odd of Odd's End]].

===Olwyn the Witness===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] by the Synod in the [[376YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements]].
===Juha the Cave Spider===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod during the [[384YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement 3|384YE Autumn Equinox]].
===Speaker for the Dead===
One of the divine family of the Free Folk, recognised as an exemplar of [[Pride]] during the [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_3|385YE Spring Equinox]]. Further information about the Speaker can be found in the [[On the Speaker for the Dead|historical research document]] commissioned by the [[Lepidean Librarian]].

===Ozren de Orzel===
Recognised as an exemplar of Pride by the Synod during the [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_3|Winter Solstice 385YE]].

===Dogri Thulebane===
Recognised as an exemplar of Loyalty by the Synod during the [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_5|Summer Solstice 386YE]].

==Past Exemplars==
This is a list of all the exemplars recognized in the years before [[Empress Britta]]'s death for whom records survive.

===[[Adelmar the Lion]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod.

===[[Atuman]]===
Originally recognised as a paragon of [[Ambition]] by the Synod, later reduced to an exemplar.

===[[Avigliana di Sarvos]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod.

===[[Bolstering Bill (Exemplar)|Bolstering Bill]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod.

===[[Berechiah]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Vigilance]] by the Synod.

===[[Torchbearer#History|Didactylos of Delving]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod.

===[[Gilda Ashwine]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[Inga Tarn]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[Isaella]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[Kala]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Wisdom]] by the Synod.

===[[Elayne Silverlark|Lady Elayne Silverlark]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Loyalty]] by the Synod.

===[[Long Tom Goodfellow]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod.
===[[Old_ways#Margaret_of_Meade|Margaret of Meade]]===
Recognised as an examplar of [[Ambition]] by the Synod.

===[[Permion]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Courage]] by the Synod.

===[[The Little Mother]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod.

===[[Zemress]]===
Recognised as an exemplar of [[Prosperity]] by the Synod.

{{Synod Further Reading}}
[[Category:Inspirations]]

Member of the Synod

2025-03-21T21:07:24Z

RichardRaynor: /* Overview */ removed ref to sinecure votes

{{CaptionedImage|file=Varushkan.jpg|align=left|width=300}}
==Overview==
Members of the [[Imperial Synod]] are responsible for the spiritual leadership and wellbeing of Imperial Citizens. It is understood that a Synod priest has a virtuous nature that enhances virtue in others and protects them from wickedness. Consequently, Synod priests are entrusted with legal powers to help them fulfil their virtuous role.

Every Imperial citizen who oversees a [[congregation]] is a member of the Imperial Synod.

==Responsibilities==
Members of the Synod are expected to wield the powers of the Synod in accordance with the doctrine of The Way to ensure that citizens are virtuous. They are expected to identify and reward the virtuous, and to seek out and punish the wicked and corrupt. In this way, they safeguard the Imperial destiny, and work to ensure that the Empire lives up to the high principles and aspirations on which it was founded.

==Powers==
The powers of a member of the Synod arise from their leadership of their congregation, not from appointment to an Imperial title. As such, it is not possible to proxy these legal rights to another citizen, they may only be used in person by the member of the Synod. Imperial titles appointed by the Synod may use a proxy as normal.
===Judgement===
Every Synod member can raise a single [[judgement]] during each summit. That judgement must be raised with an [[assembly]] the priest belongs to. There are many different types of judgement, and not all of them are available in every assembly.

Over the course of a summit, there may be many judgements put before the various Synod assemblies. A Synod priest can vote for or against any judgement raised in any assembly of which they are a member.

===Witness===
<ic>"...we come to Lot 4 of the private auction: The skull of Mikkal. The seller claims this relic is the remains of the self-styled Exemplar of Anarchy, and may even possess unusual spiritual qualities. There is a reserve price of..."<p>

Rillet tuned out the auctioneer's voice as he turned to look at the gaggle of priests staring at either him, or the skull. Getting into the private auction had been one challenge. Getting out again, and with the skull, was going to be something else entirely. Thankfully, he had a plan.</ic>

Members of the Synod are empowered by the [[Imperial Constitution]] to witness or observe all aspects of the bodies of state in function. In practice this is considered to be any formal meeting of an Imperial body organized and supported by the civil service. Meetings such as the [[Muster]] or a [[Senate session]], are all covered by the right of Witness, but private meetings of citizens are not covered.

Any member of the Synod must be granted access to the [[Imperial Bourse]], the [[Imperial Senate]], the [[Imperial Military Council]], and the [[Imperial Conclave]], in order to observe and witness proceedings. While exercising the right of witness, Synod priests are required to remain quiet, and respectful. This power does not grant a priest the legal right to interfere with the proceedings in any way - if they do they risk being ejected and refused reentry.

In practical terms, the power of witness has been ruled to grant the right of Synod priests to:
* Access the [[Imperial Senate]] public gallery during a [[Senate session]], or during any formal audience undertaken by a representative the Empire (such as an [[ambassador]]). This latter right does ''not'' extend to private meetings between ambassadors and representatives of foreign nations that do not take place in a formal context.
* Be present in the [[Imperial Military Council]] during meetings of [[General|Generals]], including the [[muster]] and any official [[council session]]. This right does not extend to a priest who is currently a [[senator]]; the constitution explicitly forbids senators from entering or being present during the meetings of the Military Council.
* Be present at a meeting of the [[Imperial Conclave]] in the Hall of the Worlds. The Conclave has no responsibility to empower members of the Synod who are not [[Magical skills#Magician|magicians]] to reach the Hall of the Worlds. Representatives of the Conclave have repeatedly pointed out that a magician who is a priest has every right to attend a conclave meeting anyway. The main use for the right of witness in the Conclave is to observe the election of the [[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]] of the [[Conclave order|orders]].
A priest using the power of witness may still be excluded from a meeting by a civil servant with an appropriate power, such as the ability of the [[Speaker for the Senate]] to [[Speaker_for_the_Senate#Powers_of_Censure|censure]] disruptive individuals. Such abilities are only used in situations where a priest is clearly abusing the power by being loud, disrespectful, or disruptive.
* Observe the [[Imperial Bourse]] private member's auction

Of all these rulings, the right to witness the private members auction was the most controversial. The auction was organized by members of the civil service on behalf of the members of the Bourse. But the auction's existence was not stipulated in law and has no basis in the constitution and it was frequently argued that it was equivalent to a private meeting. With the [[Death_of_a_salesman|death of the private auction]] in early 381YE, the matter became moot.

===Sanctuary===
<ic>The bravo leapt round the corner with the two knights hard behind him. With a final burst of speed, he rocketed into the League encampment and into a shrine, almost knocking over the bishop as he did so.<p>

As the knights came pounding up, the bravo grinned as he turned to face them. "Sanctuary..." he gasped, breathlessly, "I have... sanctuary."

Feeling the aura of pride palpably about him, the bravo turned to the bishop - only to find himself being regarded as though he were something unpleasant found on the sole of a boot.

"No," said the bishop, "you don't"

The knights advanced.</ic>

If a Synod priest is on [[consecration|consecrated]] ground, they have the power to grant sanctuary to any Imperial citizen who asks for it. Once granted sanctuary, the recipient has an hour before they may be taken to a [[Imperial_law#Magistrates_and_trials|magistrate]] to face criminal charges. While someone is under the protection of sanctuary, the Synod priest who granted it to them is responsible for the actions they take. The recipient is expected to remain in the vicinity of the priest who has granted them sanctuary. It is traditional for a citizen granted sanctuary to use their hour of grace to gather evidence or seek [[#clemency|clemency]].

Any member of the Synod may refuse a request for sanctuary. It must be clear which priest or priests are granting sanctuary - another reason why the priest who does so is wise to remain in the vicinity of the recipient.

Sanctuary cannot be offered to barbarians or foreigners. Prior to 296YE it was legal to offer sanctuary to foreigners who were adherents of The Way, but this legal protection was removed by motion of the Senate in light of several egregious abuses of the power and the difficulty of providing an acceptable definition of "adherent of The Way".

===Clemency===
<ic>Wayfarer Isaac looked through the flap of the tent at the waiting orcs, who in turn were watching the sand trickle through the hourglass. Isaac took a breath and let out an inaudible sigh as he turned his attention back to young pilgrim who had made her way to the tent.<p>

"...and I cut him nearly in two. As he dropped to the floor, I took another swing and, just like that, two pieces."

Isaac winced at the glee in the zealot's voice. "And pray tell me which virtue was foremost in your heart as you slew the yeoman?"

"Vigilance, of course. On the grounds that he was a briar who had been hiding it and clearly up to something."

Isaac shook his head slowly, musing once again that loyalty was proving a difficult path to walk this day. "I shall accompany you to your trial, but I recommend you use the remaining time available to us to put your affairs in order."</ic>

Anyone may confess their wrongdoing to a Synod priest and ask for clemency. If the priest believes the crime or deed was done for virtuous reasons, they may agree to speak on their behalf and ask for clemency from the magistrate. They accompany the recipient to the [[Criminal Trials|criminal trial]] and lay out the reasons why their virtuous behaviour should result in a reduced sentence.

It is not possible to submit a plea for clemency unless the accused pleads guilty to the charge at the start of their trial. A plea for clemency must be made on virtuous grounds. To be effective the priest must present a clear case that demonstrates that the actions of the accused were virtuous, albeit illegal.

The magistrates work closely with the Synod priests to ensure that clemency appeals run smoothly and that everyone involved knows the processes. A recent document of [[clemency guidance]] published by Magistrate Reinholz in Summer 378YE is recommended reading for any priest planning to formulate a claim for clemency.

{{Synod Further Reading}}

Mistress of Monuments

2025-02-27T22:28:10Z

RichardRaynor: /* Commission Follies */ edifice

[[Category:Synod]][[Category:Title]][[Category:The Way]]
<div style="float: right; width: 250px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|caption=This title is appointed by the Assembly of the Way|width=250px}}</div>
==Overview==
The Mistress of Monuments is an [[Imperial title]] appointed by the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Assembly of the Way]]. The title was [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Create_title_of_Mistress_of_Monuments|created]] by the [[Imperial Senate]] during the Spring Equinox 386YE following an opportunity presented in the '''[[Forwards_and_Rewards#Small_Monuments|Forwards and Rewards]]''' wind of fortune.

==Responsibilities==
The Mistress of Monuments is responsible for working with Imperial artists to commemorate inspirational actions and significant events with monuments and statues.

==Powers==
===Commission Edifices===
Once per summit, the Mistress of Monuments can [[commission]] the construction of a single [[edifice]] up to nine wains in size. This commission does not count towards the [[Commission#Maximum_Commissions_Available|limit]] on the number of commissions available each season.
__NOTOC__
To use this power, the Mistress of Monuments provides an [[Senate_announcement|announcement]] to the Civil Service, and then presents the announcement to the Senate. No voting is possible by the Senate at this point, as the power has been delegated to the Mistress of Monuments. The [[Imperial Synod]] may, however, choose to exercise their [[veto]] over the Mistress of Monuments' commission.

The Mistress of Monuments can email [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] with a description of the edifice they have commissioned. A description of a nine wain commission should be around 50 words.

==Appointment==
The Mistress of Monuments is appointed during the Summer Solstice each year by a [[Judgement]] of [[Appointment]] in the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Assembly of the Way]].

The Mistress of Monuments can be revoked by the Assembly of the Way, the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], and the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of Nine]].

{{RecentElections|Mistress_of_Monuments}}

Schools of thought

2025-02-17T13:55:32Z

RichardRaynor: /* Aspirationalism */ link fix

==Overview==
Individuals who have shown the [[Signs of the paragon and exemplar]] can be formally acknowledged by [[judgement]] of [[recognition]] by the [[Imperial Synod]].

==Exemplar==
An exemplar is, most literally, someone whose deeds are considered to set a good example for the followers of the Way. Stories of the exemplars are regularly used in sermons, and taught to children. They are held up as examples of people who lead virtuous lives, and whose behaviour is appropriate to emulate.

Unlike paragons, exemplars are often more localised figures popular in one or two nations rather than recognised and revered across the entire Empire. While their role in the faith is considered secondary to that of the paragons, they are often significantly easier for the lay followers of the Way to identify with. Many of them are historical figures from the last three hundred years, rather than the more mythical characters who have been recognised as paragons. There is no doubt, for example, that [[Inga Tarn]] existed as a flesh-and-blood woman of incredible [[courage]].

==Paragon==
A paragon is someone whose life and deeds overwhelmingly demonstrated the power of a given Virtue. In many cases, a paragon's behaviour helped to define or redefine some element of the way. For example [[Empress Richilde]] illustrated that the virtue of [[Pride]] could apply to an entire Empire rather than a single nation.

A number of paragons are semi-mythical figures, many of them pre-dating the Empire. [[Tian]], [[Korl]], [[Isenbrad]], [[The Marked]], and [[The Sentinel]] are all examples of characters whose stories predate the founding of the Empire, in some cases by many centuries. They are often folk-heroes whose stories are known in many parts of the world, albeit often by different names. There has been a great deal of debate over the centuries about whether these figures are "real" in the way that [[Aldones di Sarvos]] or [[Empress Richilde]] are demonstrably real. Regardless, the popular stories about their virtuous nature are seen as some of the most inspiring by many of the faithful.

Paradoxically, many paragons are known for only a handful of core stories - whereas the exemplars may often have an entire body of virtuous behaviour associated with them. A key difference is that while there are many stories of exemplar deeds, they are generally of a smaller and more mundane scale than those of the paragons. Empress Richilde shaped an entire empire; Tian saved her people by bringing them the secret of fire; Inga Tarn by contrast had a number of heroic adventures, but nothing on so dramatic a scale.

==Schools of Thought==
Beyond the basic distinctions outlined above, there is a great deal of discussion and disagreement about the nature of the paragons and exemplars, and what their role is within the Way. In light of the forthcoming Symposium, members of Avigliana's School of Epistemology have pored through their records studying different claims made for the role and nature of the paragons and exemplars. After months of hard work, they have created the following summary in the hope that this identification of broad schools of thought will be useful to members of the Synod and other citizens.

They note that none of these schools should be considered exclusively, there are priests who make Purist arguments about the difference between paragons and exemplars, but express views they categorise as both Universalist and Liberationist when it comes to the issue of who should be recognised.

===Purism===
An exemplar is someone who exemplifies a virtue and is generally virtuous - a paragon is someone who displays a single virtue at every critical decision. Thus Inga Tarn is an exemplar because while she is almost always courageous, there are stories in which she chooses to do the loyal or wise thing instead of the doctrinally courageous thing. Empress Richilde is a paragon, because in every story about her life she always chooses the Proud course of action even when that is not necessarily the most beneficial decision.

===Perfectionism===
An exemplar is someone who does something that helps to define a virtue, whereas a paragon is someone who helps to overturn incorrect understanding. The exemplars support mortal understanding of the virtues, the paragons help to perfect that understanding. The paragons take precedence over the exemplars, and must be more carefully considered because they are spiritual trailblazers - revealing new understanding of the virtues.

===Pragmatic Secularism===
This line of thinking denies the suggestion that exemplars and paragons have any supernatural element. They are simply people whose virtuous behaviour inspires others. They argue for a [[change of doctrine]] to remove the [[Signs of the paragon and exemplar#Miracles|miracle]] sign of the paragon and exemplar, claiming that reliance on such obvious fictional crutches is inappropriate.

===True Virtue Exceptionalism===
Exceptionalists claim that not only must paragons strongly demonstrate a single Virtue throughout their entire lives, they must ''not'' demonstrate any behaviour that is not virtuous by the doctrine of the Way. Paragons and Exemplars must not appear vengeful, hateful, peaceful, anarchistic and so on, and they must not demonstrate weakness in any of the seven virtues. Priests adhering to this approach have blocked several attempts to raise "inappropriate" individuals to the status of paragon or exemplar, including [[Emperor James]] who was bitterly argued to not only lack [[ambition]] but to demonstrate extremely suspect patterns of peaceful behaviour.

===Virtuous Histography===
It is a straightforward fact that some of the stories associated with paragons and exemplars do not entirely make sense. Many theologians accept that some of these stories are metaphors, and that some of them are actually the deeds of other people that have been assigned to the paragon or exemplar in the popular consciousness. Virtuous Historians seek to define the actual facts about the lives of the paragons and exemplars. Some are concerned that by including fictional events, the paragons and exemplars cease to be mortal figures and become dangerously close to idols. Others are concerned that by assigning the virtuous actions of several individuals to a single figure, people whose virtuous behaviour ''should'' have been recognised are deleted from history. Some Virtuous Historians find common ground with the Pragmatic Secularists - stories of supernatural miracles are often evidence that a certain deed never happened, or that the paragon or exemplar has been conflated with a spirit, hero, or even a god from pre-virtuous times.

===Liberationism===
This is a very common approach that teaches that only a paragon leaves the cycle of reincarnation - is freed from the Labyrinth - and that ''all'' paragons are by definition liberated in this manner. They argue vociferously against the inclusion of any paragon who can provably be said to have appeared as a past-life. It was Liberationists who demanded the change in status of [[Atuman]] from paragon to exemplar following the past life vision of [[Aldones di Sarvos]].

===Universalism===
Avigliana's School defines this belief as the view that the Empire is too narrow-minded in its recognition of exemplars and paragons. Adherents take issue with the majority of exemplars and paragons being Imperial, claiming it makes little sense. Most believe that at the very least, the exemplars and paragons of the [[Sumaah Republic]] should be included in the Imperial lists, and they encourage the faithful to look beyond the borders of the Empire for obviously virtuous people who live in other nations. In recent decades they have been lobbying for closer contact with the faithful of [[Faraden]], arguing that the Imperial Synod must embrace the exemplars of Courage, Pride, Loyalty, and Prosperity recognised by that nation. It is almost impossible to reconcile this approach with that of the True Virtue Exceptionalists who are apoplectic at the idea that the lists of paragons and exemplars might include figures who by default approved of the practice of Vengeance.

===Aspirationalism===
Aspirationalists argue that the distinction between exemplars and paragons is purely political, and has no benefit to the Way. The important thing is that these figures are inspirational. They argue for the removal of the two-tier system, classifying all the existing figures as either one or the other. There is a schism between Doctrinal Aspirationalists who believe all inspirational figures should be recognised (and recognisably) paragons, and the Common Aspirationalists who argue that they should be exemplars because priests have no empirical way to determine who is or is not a paragon. The former often accuse the latter of heresy (for undermining [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_The_Paragons|doctrine]]) and both tend to despise the [[#Absolute_Aspirationalism|absolute aspirationalists]].

===Critical Realism===
Avigliana's School identifies the critical realists as those who claim that, realistically, the only difference between paragons and exemplars is one of politics, not metaphysics. Paragons are generally presented as more "important" than exemplars and thus have a higher status, and more prestige. Exemplars, by contrast, are seen as more "mundane" characters, whose inspiration is more limited and prosaic in nature. The lessons they teach are "less important" than those of the paragons. The decision about whether a certain inspirational figure is a paragon or an exemplar is made by the Imperial Synod and, like all such judgements, is made for political purposes not spiritual ones. Popular and influential figures are more likely to end up as paragons than more virtuous people who do not have "the Highborn stamp of approval" (as the outspoken originator of this view repeatedly referred to it). Critical realists usually argue that not only should the distinction be removed, but doctrine should also be changed to remove the sign of [[Signs of the paragon and exemplar#Pilgrimage|pilgrimage]] criticising it is a political sign that has no grounding in faith or doctrine.

===Foundationalists===
Foundationalists criticise the principle of the judgement of recognition. They agree with the [[#Critical Realists|critical realists]] that the process is one fraught with politics, graft, and vested interests and present a radical solution. All matters of exemplars and paragons should be decided by the Highguard National Assembly alone. The claim is that as the Highborn founded the Way, they are in the most able to correctly determine who is best suited to be exemplars. Their goal is to eliminate the corruption influence of politics on the process, so that faith and an understanding of doctrine determine who is recognised as an exemplar or paragon.

===Absolute Aspirationalism===
The Absolute Aspirationalists go much further than the aspirationalists arguing that ''nobody'' should be recognised as an exemplar or paragon, because saying that these people are ''better'' in some way than other humans is itself a challenge to the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The Doctrine of Human Destiny|Doctrine of Human Destiny]]. By holding up examples that are often impossible to aspire to - no modern follower of the Way is going to bring the secret of fire to their people for example - they undermine the faith. Historically, such views have been drawn ire from prominent members of the Assembly of Ambition, who have even gone so far as to label them heretical.

===Separatists===
Prior to the inclusion of the [[Imperial Orcs]] as a nation of the Empire, there was a lot of purely theoretical discussion about whether someone who was not a human could be an exemplar or paragon. Philosophers debated whether a dog or a horse, could be an exemplar - given that the animals often appeared to demonstrate behaviour in line with virtues such as Courage or Loyalty. The Imperial Synod reached no clear conclusion, and the matter remained entirely theoretical until the orcs joined the Empire, and embraced the Way.

After the adoption of the Imperial Orcs into the Empire, the question of their relationship with the Way became crucial. Past theological discussion centred around [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith|The Doctrine of Reincarnation]] and [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Human_Destiny|human destiny]]. There is no evidence that anyone other than humans reincarnate - indeed the orcs themselves freely admit that they do not reincarnate. It raises questions - can someone who is fundamentally cut off from the Labyrinth serve as an example to humans?

The most politically expedient view is to judge that orcs are just like humans - but the separatists argue that this approach flies in the face of evidence that orcs and humans are fundamentally different on a spiritual level. Some question the decision to create an Imperial Orc assembly, but it is the action of Hector de Rondell in 379YE raising a judgement of recognition for Thrace, the leader of the orc rebellion, as an exemplar of Ambition that is the most contentious. The argument of the separatists is that the orcs must be seen as a separate species - creatures complete apart from human destiny - that it is blasphemy to include any of their ancestors among the ranks of the exemplars and paragons. The Sumaah Republic cited Hector de Rondell's judgement as part of their recent declaration of war - in part due to their separatist leanings.

{{Synod Further Reading}}

Realm

2025-01-24T19:40:31Z

RichardRaynor: /* Summer Eternals */

==Overview==
The world of Empire is known to touch six other planes of existence that are separate from, but intimately connected to, the mortal realm. These realms are innately connected to the practice of magic, as well as being home to [[eternal|eternals]], heralds and more.

Magicians have named four of the realms after the four seasons, but these are symbolic rather than literal names. The Realm of Winter, for example, incorporates brutal desert, parched forests and bottomless oceans as well as frozen snowfields. The "seasonal realms" resonate more with the "seasons of life" than the literal wheel of the seasons. Spring is wild and unfettered as a child, Summer is full of the arrogance of youth, Autumn is a realm of maturity, and Winter a realm echoing with the fear and wisdom of old age. By contrast, Day and Night are realms of the spirit; one encompasses ideas of intellect and the higher mind, the other ideas of passion and the primal instincts.

A place where the power of one or more of the realms has seeped into the mortal world is called a [[regio]]. They are important for magic; a powerful regio can make it easier to cast some rituals and the most powerful rituals can only be performed in an appropriate regio. The more powerful a regio, the stronger the connection with the realm and the more likely that the area will show physical and spiritual signs of the realm's pervasive influence. A powerful regio will usually be associated with a [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|chamber]], a location half-way between the mortal world and the realm.

The realms are home to many supernatural beings. The most powerful are the [[eternal|eternals]] the defacto rulers of each realm, but they also contain countless [[inhabitants of the realms|other entities]] as well.
<div style="float: right; max-width: 40%; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''The Realm Glyphs'''<br>A system of six sigils are commonly used in the Empire to represent the realms. These sigils were created and popularised in pre-Imperial times by a [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[Earl#Enchanter|enchanter]], initially for use in [[Dawn_culture_and_customs#Heraldry|heraldry]]. They were later adopted by several prominent [[Weaver_cabal|weaver cabals]] for the creation of [[magic items|magic]] banners, tabards and cloaks and their use slowly spread, especially in [[Varushka]], [[the League]] and [[Highguard]]. Today they are regularly used in ritual magic as symbols of entire realms where individual [[Wintermark]] [[runes]] would be too specific or too laden with additional meaning. Many [[eternal|eternals]] recognise these glyphs, and honour their association.</box></div>
==Unreachable By Mortals==
* '''Mortal beings cannot reach the realms and return'''
* '''Mortals who claim to have visited a realm have been in a chamber'''
No mortal has ever visited one of the six realms and returned. Whatever limits there are that prevent an [[eternal]] from entering the mortal world, also serve to prevent a mortal from entering a realm. A handful of mortals have been able to reach a realm. Doing so is fatal unless an eternal strips them of their mortality and transforms them into a herald - at which point they are no longer human or orc in any appreciable way. It is not possible for a player-character to visit a realm.

Mortals who claim to have visited a realm have in fact visited a [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|chamber]] - a place that exists part way between the mundane world and the realm. Some of these chambers are very large - one might contain an entire forest for example. Meetings between inhabitants of a realm and mortals are relatively common in such places. All the legendary encounters between eternals and mortals in history took place in chambers.

Over the centuries, the magicians of the Empire have built up a picture of these other worlds from observations of the magical chambers associated with each realm and through discussions with eternals and their heralds.

==Spring==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:SpringRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
Sometimes called the ''Primal Forest'', this is a realm of plant life, first and foremost. There are living creatures in abundance, insects and reptiles proliferate but animals of every kind dwell here. Despite this there is an overwhelming sense that this realm belongs to the plants, that everything else is simply tolerated. Plants and plant-like things of all natures, including ferns and fungus, explode in all directions, often growing to vast sizes. Any type of terrain that can support vegetation can be found here, and there are plenty of rivers, lakes and even shallow seas choked with marine plant life. There are hills and mountains covered in forests of tall pines. These forests spread over much of the realm, but they are populated with clearings and in a few places the trees reluctantly retreat leaving [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meadow#Perpetual_meadows perpetual meadows] filled with grass and wild flowers.

Storms are commonplace throughout the realm, with winds so powerful they uproot trees. When the storms are not blowing, the sun is bright and the sky a brilliant blue, although the realm is always cool and damp, a testament to the frequent rain.

Dead things become alive here – not in the sense of reanimation or reincarnation, but in the sense of being claimed by the realm. A dead body will begin to sprout fungus or tiny plants within a matter of hours and be entirely dissolved by sunset or sunrise, leaving only a few bones among the new plants. Likewise unattended objects, especially organic objects, are quickly consumed. Everything rots, rusts, and decays and in doing so serves as the basis for new life. Structures are virtually unknown unless they are formed from living plants. Dead wooden structures quickly collapse and become overgrown, while stone buildings are rapidly reduced to ruins by questing roots and vines.

The resonances and dissonances of Spring magic can be found [[Spring magic|here]].
===Spring Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Spring}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
! Eternal of Spring
! Concerns
|-
|[[Arhallogen]], the Spider King || Survival, adaptation, poison, arachnids
|-
|[[Irra Harah]], Guard of the Young || Youth, struggle, the weak
|-
|[[Llofir]], the Quiet One || Fungus, rot, decay, collapse
|-
|[[Ossegrahn]], the Cupbearer || Healing, life, fresh water
|-
|[[Siakha]], the Empress of Sharks || Storms, destruction, predation, the sea
|-
|[[Yaw'nagrah]], the Green Mother || Fertility, diversity
|}
</div>
The eternals of Spring are wild creatures, most of whom are either disinterested in civilisation or in the Empire as a political entity, or regard it as their enemy in some way. A being like [[Siakha]] is happy to help anyone who wants to make the world more savage and bloodthirsty and filled with destruction, but that usually makes them the enemy of the Empire and indeed anyone who enjoys the trappings of civilisation. Order and hierarchy are anethema to the Spring realm, and few of the eternals have any interest in aiding those who seek to bring order to the world. [[Yaw'nagrah]] seeks endless growth and eternal change, and the green madness that tears apart farms and cities with equal fervor. [[Arhallogen]] teaches the strong to prey on the weak, and offers cruel weapons that bring swift death to anyone prepared to accept them.

This isn't to say they are all inimical to Imperial citizens; Spring has a more gentle side as well. [[Ossegrahn]] promotes healing of body and mind. [[Llofir]] is not a creature of mindless destruction, but of the cycles of creation and destruction that see the old give way to the new. [[Irra Harah]] is fiercely protective of the young and those ground under the heel of tyrants. The problem is that even the most gentle of the Spring eternals is still a creature of the wild, that at best has no use for the trappings of the modern world and at worst sees them as obstacles that must be torn down.

==Summer==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:SummerRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
The Realm echoes every part of the material world, but exaggerated and amplified in every way. In the realm of might and majesty, everything exists in a timeless moment at its idealised prime. Great oaks tower over the fields of glory, the mountains scrape the skies, the blizzards howl more terrible than any mortal storm and the dark seas are deeper than any mortal ocean. The savage beasts of legend are hunted across the rolling plains by eternals clad in the bright panoply of youth and immortality.

The Realm has creatures that are like animals, but they often possess a magical nature. There are no small animals here – majestic stags, immense eagles, mighty lions, fearsome dragons, awe-inspiring unicorns and leviathan sea creatures are more common. These creatures exist to challenge and provide sport to the inhabitants rather than as creatures atop complex ecosystems.

More than perhaps any other, this is a realm that reflects the whims of the eternals who rule here. Where it is wild, it is wild because they want it to be or let it be. There are no real settlements here as mortals understand them – an eternal may have a castle, or a lodge, or a palace, but there are no fields to be tilled or flocks or herds to be tended. They may have great feasts every night, but there is no suggestion that those feasts are needed to provide sustenance – they are events intended to thrill and entertain rather than sate one's hunger.

Eternals and heralds alike are clad in fine raiment as befits their station. Each item is unique in some way, if an eternal chooses to make something, it is a unique crafted piece and more than likely a powerful artefact, not just another sword. Things are elegant but simple, straightforwardness is a subtle but constant element. This is a realm of bows, not crossbows. It’s a realm of torches rather than lamps. Its not a realm where machines or complex devices have a place.

The resonances and dissonances of Summer magic can be found [[Summer magic|here]].
===Summer Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Summer}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Summer
! Concerns
|-
| [[Eleonaris]], Queen of the Fields of Glory || Majesty, nobility, battle, victory
|-
|[[Jaheris]], the Shadowed Prince || Rivalry, betrayal, vengeance
|-
|[[Hayaak]], the Gryphon King || Wrath, vengeance, ferocity
|-
|[[Cathan Canae]], Queen of Ice and Darkness || Might, winter, strength, durability
|-
|[[Barien]], the Iron Duke || Challenges, worth, tests
|-
|[[Meraud]], the Golden Magician || Magic, enchantment
|-
|[[Rhianos]], Regent of the Eternal Sea || The sea, seafarers, adventure
|-
|[[Adamant]], King of the Golden Deeps || Stone, beauty, treasure, construction
|}
</div>
The kings and queens of the Summer Realm rule over vast demenses where they spend their time hunting, fighting and feasting. They are rivals to one another, and while they might make alliances from time to time, they rarely last long. The enmity between [[Eleonaris]] and [[Cathan Canae]], two great Queens who contend ceaselessly for land and prestige, is perhaps the best known of these rivalries, and at any given time there are at least one or two other eternals caught up in their endless conflict. Only [[Barien]], the Lord of the Crossroads, seems to avoid the chaos at the heart of the realm, serving as an "elder statesman" whose wisdom and experience are valued by all the many kings and queens of this realm.

Each Summer eternal is a proud and majestic being, and most of them have tempers to match. The self-righteous fury of the summer eternals is legendary, but it will pass if suitably propitiated. And like a storm, if the offending magician can find a suitable way to make amends then it is usually as if it never happened. Those who seek audience with the summer eternals are well-advised to watch their language carefully - all the eternals of Summer style themselves as monarchs or their equals and expect to be treated accordingly. They dislike base flattery, but only when they identify it as such - a magician who offers due respect is likely to prosper.

==Autumn==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:AutumnRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
In the realm of intrigue and influence, everything interweaves in a great shifting web of favour and debt. The horned lords and ladies compete in savage games of wealth and power. They welcome mortals to their councils but beware the bargains of Autumn for, in the ''Iron Labyrinth'', nothing is simple.

The Iron Labyrinth is a bleak landscape painted in crimson, black, and gold. It is a mountainous realm, but it is also a literal labyrinth – the landscape is a massive maze carved out of the ground itself. Sometimes the walls are black, white, or crimson stone, sometimes they are iron or lead, sometimes they are impenetrable thorny thickets or the high walls of natural canyons. Sometimes they are narrow passages where travellers must walk in single file, sometimes they are immense avenues wide enough for an army to march freely down. Sometimes they open into great plazas or clearings large enough to hold a city. Everything here is a little past it’s prime, however. Metallic ivy spreads across the walls, old structures crumble a little, and vegetation is almost unknown – what plants do exist are usually made of metal or crystal.

Water runs through the Labyrinth, a complex series of canals and locks that feed into a great lake or sea that connects the cities of the realm. It is often raining here, powerful winds are common, and occasional floods or earthquakes are not unknown. While there are regular days and nights and a sun and a moon, there are no seasons. As near as scholars can tell, everything is in the late season of its life. The metal and stone trees resemble the deciduous trees of the mortal world in their autumn finery, the fields (such as they are) are always full of crops ready to be harvested, the orchards and vines are always heavy with peculiar fruit. In theory nobody goes without sustenance in the Realm of Autumn, because it is a realm of plenty and yet many of the inhabitants perpetually have a hungry look in their eyes.

The Iron Labyrinth contains only cities – there are no towns, villages, or hamlets in the Autumn Realm. The inhabitants of these great conurbations cluster together in chaotic, sprawling buildings that link one to the next without pause or thought. Each metropolis is ruled by a single sovereign or prince, a powerful eternal whose nature dominates the city and everyone who lives there and from whom all political power descends.

The realm descends deep beneath the surface as well – beneath the mountains are great delves and mines that criss-cross and interconnect. The passages beneath the surface are dangerous, inhabited by strange creatures and deadly traps, but they create a second labyrinth that forms a dark mirror of the surface world and is a source both of astounding mineral wealth and of clandestine movements.

The resonances and dissonances of Autumn magic can be found [[Autumn magic|here]].
===Autumn Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Autumn}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Autumn
! Concerns
|-
|[[Basileia]], Prince of the Black Vaults || Intrigue, espionage, power
|-
|[[Callidus]], Prince of the Argent Tontine || Greed, avarice, desire
|-
|[[Ephisis]], the Hidden Prince || Trade, commerce and investment, value
|-
|[[Estavus]], the Forgemistress || Crafting, building, artisans
|-
|The [[Lictors]], the Chainbound || Binding, imprisonment, punishment, contracts
|-
|[[Mazen]] of the Many Faces (destroyed) || <s>Manipulation, Deception</s>
|-
|[[Prospero]], Lord of the Loom || Influence, favours, grudges
|}
</div>
The Autumn realm, is a land of cities, each of which is ruled by a single eternal, a sovereign or prince from whom all political power descends. Some say the city itself is the eternal, and those who dwell there are simply manifestations of the city's identity. In any case, all these conurbations are a hotbed of competition and rivalry, with factions of heralds vying to outdo each other at every turn. All of this seems to be actively encouraged by those who rule over these domains and mortals who approach them would do well to remember that. The rules of the Autumn realm reward ambition and encourage those who seek to get ahead.

More than any other realm, the occupants of the Autumn realm are highly transactional. Relations may be cordial or frosty based on past form, but there is little in the way of friendship here. Rather each eternal is interested in what will advance their interests - and what will profit those who deal with them. They are candid about seeking their own advantage and comfortable with those who are self-aware and confident enough to reciprocate.

It is wise to be careful when dealing with the eternals of the Autumn realm. While they don't embody the savage fury of the Spring Realm, the hot rage of Summer or the cold hatred of winter, they remember those who have crossed them and look to ensure that every debt is repaid in full, with interest.

==Winter==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:WinterRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
The ''Wasteland'' is hungry. It is a realm of creaking dread, of fear and famine without the memory of dusk or the hope of dawn. From the parching heat of the dusty desert halls, past wastelands of bleak stone and abrasive sand, and tundra decorated with razor ice to the frigid silence of snow-drowned forests,. Ruins litter the landscape like fallens leaves, suggesting that there were once cities and towns here, but if that were true, none now remember their names. There are at least two ruined cities in the realm, one of them standing on the shores of a tideless black sea that is inexorably drowning the buildings that remain.

In some ways it is almost as if the realm itself is on the verge of death. The length of day and night is not set – a day might last a few hours and a night last for what seems like a week. Sometimes the sun fails to rise for months on end, and when it does put in an appearance it is a baleful red orb that hangs low in the sky. At night the moon is wan and sallow, and provides minimal illumination. It’s dangerous to carry lights in this hungry night, however, for light and warmth attract the denizens of the realm.

What weather there is here is poor. Blizzards and bone-chilling cold are obvious, but it is also a realm of drought, where drinkable water is as scarce as wholesome food. The occupants of the realms do ''need'' to eat or drink to survive, and yet every inhabitant of the winter realm is plagued by hunger and thirst that gnaws at their senses and can never be sated.

There are said to be oases in the wilderness of Winter but these are dangerous places. The eternals of Winter are monsters who make little effort to conceal their cruel natures. Their homes may sometimes appear well-lit and replete with food and warmth, but their owners demand a steep price from their guests, and maintain esoteric bans that can easily be broken by visitors who don’t know the rules. It is a realm of wisdom, but it is the cruel wisdom that comes with age and experience, the wisdom of hard choices and the certainty of death.

The resonances and dissonances of Winter magic can be found [[Winter magic|here]].
===Winter Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Winter}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Winter
! Concerns
|-
|[[Agramant]], the Hunter in the Wastes || Hunger, cannibalism, madness, dread
|-
|[[Kaela]], the Lady of Oblivion || Entropy, despair, endings
|-
|[[Sorin]], the Tomb King || Privation, strength from weakness
|-
|[[The Thrice-cursed Court]], the Bound || Curses, power at a price, spite
|-
|[[Wise Rangara]], the Ancient One || Wisdom, tradition,
|}
</div>
The eternals of Winter are often regarded as monsters, and of them all [[Agramant]] seems to take the greatest delight in filling that role. They are uniformly cruel, their nature unforgiving. [[The Thrice-cursed Court]] spread malice, jealousy, spite, and hate in their wake, while [[Sorin]] ensures that the price paid for his boons is always just a little more painful than the bargainer expects. Even [[Wise Rangara]], arguably the most sympathetic of them, lacks any real empathy. She won't hesitate to demand a child remove their own eye in exchange for a boon, reflecting the way that wisdom always comes with a price in the Winter realm.

Perhaps their saving grace is the fact that they don't hide their natures. They never really pretend to be anything other than they are, and make no bones about the fact that they are creatures that should be feared. As with all eternals they are creatures of their realm, sharing in the resonances that manifest in Winter magic, and as such they are not ''solely'' cruel nor do they consider themselves to be wicked. [[Kaela]], for example, understands that an ending can be a mercy, while for all her harshness Wise Rangara genuinely attempts to teach lessons of wisdom and responsibility to those she deals with. Many of them offer boons of protection, warding, and perseverance alongside their darker gifts, and even Agramant never ''forces'' people to take his monstrous boons - knowing their their own greed, weakness of character, or ambition will be more than enough to deliver the foolish into his clutches.

==Day==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:DayRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
A realm of spirit and of shining light, a realm of Sea and Sky. Where the sky and the ocean meet, in the heights and the depths, the eternals of Day seek infinite understanding of the truths of creation. It is a realm that celebrates reason over impulse, thought over instinct, harmony over passion. It is the realm of the higher mind, of the birth of revelation and the death of secrets.

That air itself glows with a golden radiance that seems to cover from all directions, despite the empty sky. In place of a golden sun there is only a limitless vault that becomes brighter and brighter as one looks upwards until the glow is too bright to look upon. The clouds are shimmering fields of silver and gold that drift lazily around in proscribed orbits, never diminishing or increasing in size. The realm itself is a vast ocean of clear water that becomes darker and darker blue as the depth increases. Several miles beneath the surface are structures or creatures that glow with their own light, and to an observer on the surface it might appear that the depths of the ocean are full of stars.

The Realm is scattered with a multitude of islands, a swirling archipelago that never ends. The smallest are a few dozen metres from one shore to the other, the largest approach the size of an Imperial territory. These islands do not exist just on the surface of the water, however. Great blocks of stone and coral hang impossibly in the air, or are drowned deep in the ocean. The inhabitants of the realm move between them with great facility – but the further from the surface an island is, the more important and powerful the beings who dwell there.

Because the air itself glows there are no shadows here. The water of the ocean is so clear that it is many many fathoms before this glow becomes hazy, and due to a peculiar property of the realm the ability to perceive is never impeded. Even in the deepest and darkest abyss, where the light from the sky has faded almost to nothing, creatures can see and hear as if stood on the surface. Such abysses are rare; the depths of the endless ocean are replete with plants that create their own illumination, shimmering crystalline coral, and creatures that radiate all the colours of the rainbow.

Some pre-Imperial mystics claimed that if one were to go down far enough into the ocean, to the point where the very last of the light is gone, one could travel directly to the highest parts of the Realm of Night. This is one of the beliefs of those who teach that the Realm of Day and the Realm of Night are the same realm, rather than two different realms. Eternals of Day and Night both find the idea unbelievably foolish.

The resonances and dissonances of Day magic can be found [[Day magic|here]].
===Day Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Day}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Day
! Concerns
|-
|[[Cold Sun]] || Order, perfection, purity
|-
|[[Kimus]] of the Thousand Eyes || Light, scrying, observation
|-
|[[Leviathan]], the Deepest One || History, foundations, causation
|-
|[[Phaleron]], the Great Library || Knowledge, preservation
|-
|[[Roshanwe]], the Navigator || Discovery, wisdom, truth
|-
|[[Sinokenon]], the Turning Mirror || Hierarchy, connections, religion
|-
|[[Ylenwe]], the Dove || Harmony, mathematics, music
|-
|[[Zakalwe]], the Strategist || Conflict, logistics, strategy
|}
</div>
The eternals of the Day realm are almost uniformly interested in knowledge and precision, discipline and structure. They are slow to anger and rarely allow their emotions to rule their reason. They prize clarity of thought and clear expression and expect those who commune with them to speak their mind. One of the few ways to annoy a day eternal is to waste their time, whether that is by engaging in small talk, tomfoolery or just a lack of discipline and clarity if your approach.

They generally dislike chaos and disorder, and those who spread it. They are rarely transactional, the best way to persuade a day eternal to aid you is usually with compelling logic and a convincing case rather than offers of incentives or payments. They are much more concerned, however, with procedures and principles than other eternals - recent boons from several of these eternals have specifically required the [[Imperial Conclave]] to accept and determine the parameters of those boons. They are more likely than eternals of other realms to want to deliver their boons via the established Imperial houses of power rather than with individual magicians.

==Night==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:NightRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
A realm of spirit and of eternal shadow, a realm of endless ancient forest where passion rules, thought gives way to instinct, and joy and terror are both a breath away. The coiling serpents and enigmatic wyrms of Night whisper of the joy of mysteries, and of the riddles whose beauty lies in the act of unravelling rather than the revelation of the secrets wrapped within.

The Realm of Night is, unsurprisingly, dark. The sky is always black, but it is peppered with tiny winking stars. There is usually no moon here, but there are often dim sources of illumination that serve to create oases of safety – or danger – in the general darkness. Firepits, lanterns and torches are common elements here, often serving as the centre of a small settlement or the site for a few hours of revel or battle.

The Realm of Night has weather – hot and sultry or cold and bitter. It might rain, or there might be a dense fog. Weather conditions tend to suggest the presence of an eternal or other powerful entity in the vicinity – the weather, like the realm itself, is subject to the will of those who rule here.

Much of the Realm exists beneath the ground – there are caverns the size of countries in which forests and cities exist, as well as winding mazes that dip through three dimensions in their complexity. The underground realm is as fecund and magical as the aboveground realm – where there is no soil, the rock itself gives forth life in the shape of multicoloured mushrooms and luminous mosses.

The surface is wild, and unconstrained. Much of it is covered in dark forest – and folk tales say that this forest connects in places directly to the darkest and wildest parts of the mortal world and one who has abandoned rationality (drunks and distraught lovers) can wander across the boundaries into the Realm of Night if they are not careful.

The resonances and dissonances of Night magic can be found [[Night magic|here]].
===Night Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Night}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! scope="col" style="width: 320px;" | Eternal of Night
! Concerns
|-
| The [[Azoth]]</sup>, the Crucible
|Transformation, alchemy, enlightenment, change
|-
|[[Janon]], the Shadowed Fire
|Passion, freedom
|-
|[[Lashonar]], the Loquacious
|Stories, confusion, speech that moves, oratory
|-
|[[Sadogua]], Brother of Wizards
|Magicians, magic, power, manipulation
|-
|[[Sung]], the Rainbow Serpent
|Mysteries and enigmas
|-
|The [[Whisper Gallery]], the Shadow Courtiers
|Secrets, rumour, art
|}
</div>
The eternals of the Night Realm are divided into serpents and wyrms. The serpents - [[Azoth]], [[Sung]], and (allegedly) the [[Whisper Gallery]] - have wings and no limbs and are ephemeral and cerebral in nature. The wyrms - [[Lashonar]], [[Sadogua]] and [[Janon]] - have limbs but no wings and are more grounded and earthy in nature. All the Night eternals enjoy clever wordplay, elegant language, and a degree of flattery, though for the most part it is elocution and the sophistication of language that they enjoy rather than crude words of admiration or praise.

Night eternals are mercurial by nature and their moods are volatile and sensitive to the smallest detail. They tend to be enigmatic, both in temperament and reasoning and can be difficult to comprehend. The wyrms are given to powerful emotions, but their moods rarely last for long. The serpents are more cryptic, expressing esoteric thinking when provoked.

The Night eternals are shapeshifters, able to change their appearance to suit their wishes. Eternals of other realms [[Eternal#Shifting_Faces,_Different_Forms|sometimes appear differently]], but that is not something they seem to have much or any control over. But in the Night Realm, an eternal's appearance is always a deliberate choice, a mask that they have chosen to wear to present themselves to the world.

Where they interact with the Empire, the eternals of Night are more likely to favour individual magicians or covens, and deal with the established structures of power only when they must. They tend to promote individualism, and are often suspicious of attempts to constrain or limit personal freedom. This can bring them into conflict with Imperial citizens, as they encourage unruly or even downright illegal behaviour in those who deal with them.

In 382YE, two other eternals of the Night realm - [[Murit]] the Shaper and [[Soghter]], Changer of the Ways - were unified to create a new eternal with the assistance of Imperial magicians.
</onlyinclude>

{{Cosmology Further Reading}}

[[Category:Magic]][[Category:Eternals]]

Realm

2025-01-24T19:25:16Z

RichardRaynor: /* Unreachable By Mortals */ typo

==Overview==
The world of Empire is known to touch six other planes of existence that are separate from, but intimately connected to, the mortal realm. These realms are innately connected to the practice of magic, as well as being home to [[eternal|eternals]], heralds and more.

Magicians have named four of the realms after the four seasons, but these are symbolic rather than literal names. The Realm of Winter, for example, incorporates brutal desert, parched forests and bottomless oceans as well as frozen snowfields. The "seasonal realms" resonate more with the "seasons of life" than the literal wheel of the seasons. Spring is wild and unfettered as a child, Summer is full of the arrogance of youth, Autumn is a realm of maturity, and Winter a realm echoing with the fear and wisdom of old age. By contrast, Day and Night are realms of the spirit; one encompasses ideas of intellect and the higher mind, the other ideas of passion and the primal instincts.

A place where the power of one or more of the realms has seeped into the mortal world is called a [[regio]]. They are important for magic; a powerful regio can make it easier to cast some rituals and the most powerful rituals can only be performed in an appropriate regio. The more powerful a regio, the stronger the connection with the realm and the more likely that the area will show physical and spiritual signs of the realm's pervasive influence. A powerful regio will usually be associated with a [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|chamber]], a location half-way between the mortal world and the realm.

The realms are home to many supernatural beings. The most powerful are the [[eternal|eternals]] the defacto rulers of each realm, but they also contain countless [[inhabitants of the realms|other entities]] as well.
<div style="float: right; max-width: 40%; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''The Realm Glyphs'''<br>A system of six sigils are commonly used in the Empire to represent the realms. These sigils were created and popularised in pre-Imperial times by a [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[Earl#Enchanter|enchanter]], initially for use in [[Dawn_culture_and_customs#Heraldry|heraldry]]. They were later adopted by several prominent [[Weaver_cabal|weaver cabals]] for the creation of [[magic items|magic]] banners, tabards and cloaks and their use slowly spread, especially in [[Varushka]], [[the League]] and [[Highguard]]. Today they are regularly used in ritual magic as symbols of entire realms where individual [[Wintermark]] [[runes]] would be too specific or too laden with additional meaning. Many [[eternal|eternals]] recognise these glyphs, and honour their association.</box></div>
==Unreachable By Mortals==
* '''Mortal beings cannot reach the realms and return'''
* '''Mortals who claim to have visited a realm have been in a chamber'''
No mortal has ever visited one of the six realms and returned. Whatever limits there are that prevent an [[eternal]] from entering the mortal world, also serve to prevent a mortal from entering a realm. A handful of mortals have been able to reach a realm. Doing so is fatal unless an eternal strips them of their mortality and transforms them into a herald - at which point they are no longer human or orc in any appreciable way. It is not possible for a player-character to visit a realm.

Mortals who claim to have visited a realm have in fact visited a [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|chamber]] - a place that exists part way between the mundane world and the realm. Some of these chambers are very large - one might contain an entire forest for example. Meetings between inhabitants of a realm and mortals are relatively common in such places. All the legendary encounters between eternals and mortals in history took place in chambers.

Over the centuries, the magicians of the Empire have built up a picture of these other worlds from observations of the magical chambers associated with each realm and through discussions with eternals and their heralds.

==Spring==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:SpringRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
Sometimes called the ''Primal Forest'', this is a realm of plant life, first and foremost. There are living creatures in abundance, insects and reptiles proliferate but animals of every kind dwell here. Despite this there is an overwhelming sense that this realm belongs to the plants, that everything else is simply tolerated. Plants and plant-like things of all natures, including ferns and fungus, explode in all directions, often growing to vast sizes. Any type of terrain that can support vegetation can be found here, and there are plenty of rivers, lakes and even shallow seas choked with marine plant life. There are hills and mountains covered in forests of tall pines. These forests spread over much of the realm, but they are populated with clearings and in a few places the trees reluctantly retreat leaving [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meadow#Perpetual_meadows perpetual meadows] filled with grass and wild flowers.

Storms are commonplace throughout the realm, with winds so powerful they uproot trees. When the storms are not blowing, the sun is bright and the sky a brilliant blue, although the realm is always cool and damp, a testament to the frequent rain.

Dead things become alive here – not in the sense of reanimation or reincarnation, but in the sense of being claimed by the realm. A dead body will begin to sprout fungus or tiny plants within a matter of hours and be entirely dissolved by sunset or sunrise, leaving only a few bones among the new plants. Likewise unattended objects, especially organic objects, are quickly consumed. Everything rots, rusts, and decays and in doing so serves as the basis for new life. Structures are virtually unknown unless they are formed from living plants. Dead wooden structures quickly collapse and become overgrown, while stone buildings are rapidly reduced to ruins by questing roots and vines.

The resonances and dissonances of Spring magic can be found [[Spring magic|here]].
===Spring Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Spring}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
! Eternal of Spring
! Concerns
|-
|[[Arhallogen]], the Spider King || Survival, adaptation, poison, arachnids
|-
|[[Irra Harah]], Guard of the Young || Youth, struggle, the weak
|-
|[[Llofir]], the Quiet One || Fungus, rot, decay, collapse
|-
|[[Ossegrahn]], the Cupbearer || Healing, life, fresh water
|-
|[[Siakha]], the Empress of Sharks || Storms, destruction, predation, the sea
|-
|[[Yaw'nagrah]], the Green Mother || Fertility, diversity
|}
</div>
The eternals of Spring are wild creatures, most of whom are either disinterested in civilisation or in the Empire as a political entity, or regard it as their enemy in some way. A being like [[Siakha]] is happy to help anyone who wants to make the world more savage and bloodthirsty and filled with destruction, but that usually makes them the enemy of the Empire and indeed anyone who enjoys the trappings of civilisation. Order and hierarchy are anethema to the Spring realm, and few of the eternals have any interest in aiding those who seek to bring order to the world. [[Yaw'nagrah]] seeks endless growth and eternal change, and the green madness that tears apart farms and cities with equal fervor. [[Arhallogen]] teaches the strong to prey on the weak, and offers cruel weapons that bring swift death to anyone prepared to accept them.

This isn't to say they are all inimical to Imperial citizens; Spring has a more gentle side as well. [[Ossegrahn]] promotes healing of body and mind. [[Llofir]] is not a creature of mindless destruction, but of the cycles of creation and destruction that see the old give way to the new. [[Irra Harah]] is fiercely protective of the young and those ground under the heel of tyrants. The problem is that even the most gentle of the Spring eternals is still a creature of the wild, that at best has no use for the trappings of the modern world and at worst sees them as obstacles that must be torn down.

==Summer==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:SummerRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
The Realm echoes every part of the material world, but exaggerated and amplified in every way. In the realm of might and majesty, everything exists in a timeless moment at its idealised prime. Great oaks tower over the fields of glory, the mountains scrape the skies, the blizzards howl more terrible than any mortal storm and the dark seas are deeper than any mortal ocean. The savage beasts of legend are hunted across the rolling plains by eternals clad in the bright panoply of youth and immortality.

The Realm has creatures that are like animals, but they often possess a magical nature. There are no small animals here – majestic stags, immense eagles, mighty lions, fearsome dragons, awe-inspiring unicorns and leviathan sea creatures are more common. These creatures exist to challenge and provide sport to the inhabitants rather than as creatures atop complex ecosystems.

More than perhaps any other, this is a realm that reflects the whims of the eternals who rule here. Where it is wild, it is wild because they want it to be or let it be. There are no real settlements here as mortals understand them – an eternal may have a castle, or a lodge, or a palace, but there are no fields to be tilled or flocks or herds to be tended. They may have great feasts every night, but there is no suggestion that those feasts are needed to provide sustenance – they are events intended to thrill and entertain rather than sate one's hunger.

Eternals and heralds alike are clad in fine raiment as befits their station. Each item is unique in some way, if an eternal chooses to make something, it is a unique crafted piece and more than likely a powerful artefact, not just another sword. Things are elegant but simple, straightforwardness is a subtle but constant element. This is a realm of bows, not crossbows. It’s a realm of torches rather than lamps. Its not a realm where machines or complex devices have a place.

The resonances and dissonances of Summer magic can be found [[Summer magic|here]].
===Summer Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Summer}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Summer
! Concerns
|-
| [[Eleonaris]], Queen of the Fields of Glory || Majesty, nobility, battle, victory
|-
|[[Jaheris]], the Shadowed Prince || Rivalry, betrayal, vengeance
|-
|[[Hayaak]], the Gryphon King || Wrath, vengeance, ferocity
|-
|[[Cathan Canae]], Queen of Ice and Darkness || Might, winter, strength, durability
|-
|[[Barien]], the Iron Duke || Challenges, worth, tests
|-
|[[Meraud]], the Golden Magician || Magic, enchantment
|-
|[[Rhianos]], Regent of the Eternal Sea || The sea, seafarers, adventure
|-
|[[Adamant]], King of the Golden Deeps || Stone, beauty, treasure, construction
|}
</div>
The kings and queens of the Summer Realm rule over vast demenses where they spend their time hunting, fighting and feasting. They are rivals to one another, and while they might make alliances from time to time, they rarely last long. The enmity between [[Eleonaris]] and [[Cathan Canae]], two great Queens who contend ceaselessly for land and prestige, is perhaps the best known of these rivalries, and at any given time there are at least one or two other eternals caught up in their endless conflict. Only [[Barien]], the Lord of the Crossroads, seems to avoid the chaos at the heart of the realm, serving as an "elder statesman" whose wisdom and experience are valued by all the many kings and queens of this realm.

Each Summer eternal is a proud and majestic being, and most of them have tempers to match. The self-righteous fury of the summer eternals is legendary, but it will pass if suitably propitiated. And like a storm, if the offending magician can find a suitable way make amends then it is usually as if it never happened. Those who seek audience with the summer eternals are well-advised to watch their language carefully - all the eternals of Summer style themselves as monarchs or their equals and expect to be treated accordingly. They dislike base flattery, but only when they identify it as such - a magician who offers due respect is likely to prosper.

==Autumn==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:AutumnRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
In the realm of intrigue and influence, everything interweaves in a great shifting web of favour and debt. The horned lords and ladies compete in savage games of wealth and power. They welcome mortals to their councils but beware the bargains of Autumn for, in the ''Iron Labyrinth'', nothing is simple.

The Iron Labyrinth is a bleak landscape painted in crimson, black, and gold. It is a mountainous realm, but it is also a literal labyrinth – the landscape is a massive maze carved out of the ground itself. Sometimes the walls are black, white, or crimson stone, sometimes they are iron or lead, sometimes they are impenetrable thorny thickets or the high walls of natural canyons. Sometimes they are narrow passages where travellers must walk in single file, sometimes they are immense avenues wide enough for an army to march freely down. Sometimes they open into great plazas or clearings large enough to hold a city. Everything here is a little past it’s prime, however. Metallic ivy spreads across the walls, old structures crumble a little, and vegetation is almost unknown – what plants do exist are usually made of metal or crystal.

Water runs through the Labyrinth, a complex series of canals and locks that feed into a great lake or sea that connects the cities of the realm. It is often raining here, powerful winds are common, and occasional floods or earthquakes are not unknown. While there are regular days and nights and a sun and a moon, there are no seasons. As near as scholars can tell, everything is in the late season of its life. The metal and stone trees resemble the deciduous trees of the mortal world in their autumn finery, the fields (such as they are) are always full of crops ready to be harvested, the orchards and vines are always heavy with peculiar fruit. In theory nobody goes without sustenance in the Realm of Autumn, because it is a realm of plenty and yet many of the inhabitants perpetually have a hungry look in their eyes.

The Iron Labyrinth contains only cities – there are no towns, villages, or hamlets in the Autumn Realm. The inhabitants of these great conurbations cluster together in chaotic, sprawling buildings that link one to the next without pause or thought. Each metropolis is ruled by a single sovereign or prince, a powerful eternal whose nature dominates the city and everyone who lives there and from whom all political power descends.

The realm descends deep beneath the surface as well – beneath the mountains are great delves and mines that criss-cross and interconnect. The passages beneath the surface are dangerous, inhabited by strange creatures and deadly traps, but they create a second labyrinth that forms a dark mirror of the surface world and is a source both of astounding mineral wealth and of clandestine movements.

The resonances and dissonances of Autumn magic can be found [[Autumn magic|here]].
===Autumn Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Autumn}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Autumn
! Concerns
|-
|[[Basileia]], Prince of the Black Vaults || Intrigue, espionage, power
|-
|[[Callidus]], Prince of the Argent Tontine || Greed, avarice, desire
|-
|[[Ephisis]], the Hidden Prince || Trade, commerce and investment, value
|-
|[[Estavus]], the Forgemistress || Crafting, building, artisans
|-
|The [[Lictors]], the Chainbound || Binding, imprisonment, punishment, contracts
|-
|[[Mazen]] of the Many Faces (destroyed) || <s>Manipulation, Deception</s>
|-
|[[Prospero]], Lord of the Loom || Influence, favours, grudges
|}
</div>
The Autumn realm, is a land of cities, each of which is ruled by a single eternal, a sovereign or prince from whom all political power descends. Some say the city itself is the eternal, and those who dwell there are simply manifestations of the city's identity. In any case, all these conurbations are a hotbed of competition and rivalry, with factions of heralds vying to outdo each other at every turn. All of this seems to be actively encouraged by those who rule over these domains and mortals who approach them would do well to remember that. The rules of the Autumn realm reward ambition and encourage those who seek to get ahead.

More than any other realm, the occupants of the Autumn realm are highly transactional. Relations may be cordial or frosty based on past form, but there is little in the way of friendship here. Rather each eternal is interested in what will advance their interests - and what will profit those who deal with them. They are candid about seeking their own advantage and comfortable with those who are self-aware and confident enough to reciprocate.

It is wise to be careful when dealing with the eternals of the Autumn realm. While they don't embody the savage fury of the Spring Realm, the hot rage of Summer or the cold hatred of winter, they remember those who have crossed them and look to ensure that every debt is repaid in full, with interest.

==Winter==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:WinterRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
The ''Wasteland'' is hungry. It is a realm of creaking dread, of fear and famine without the memory of dusk or the hope of dawn. From the parching heat of the dusty desert halls, past wastelands of bleak stone and abrasive sand, and tundra decorated with razor ice to the frigid silence of snow-drowned forests,. Ruins litter the landscape like fallens leaves, suggesting that there were once cities and towns here, but if that were true, none now remember their names. There are at least two ruined cities in the realm, one of them standing on the shores of a tideless black sea that is inexorably drowning the buildings that remain.

In some ways it is almost as if the realm itself is on the verge of death. The length of day and night is not set – a day might last a few hours and a night last for what seems like a week. Sometimes the sun fails to rise for months on end, and when it does put in an appearance it is a baleful red orb that hangs low in the sky. At night the moon is wan and sallow, and provides minimal illumination. It’s dangerous to carry lights in this hungry night, however, for light and warmth attract the denizens of the realm.

What weather there is here is poor. Blizzards and bone-chilling cold are obvious, but it is also a realm of drought, where drinkable water is as scarce as wholesome food. The occupants of the realms do ''need'' to eat or drink to survive, and yet every inhabitant of the winter realm is plagued by hunger and thirst that gnaws at their senses and can never be sated.

There are said to be oases in the wilderness of Winter but these are dangerous places. The eternals of Winter are monsters who make little effort to conceal their cruel natures. Their homes may sometimes appear well-lit and replete with food and warmth, but their owners demand a steep price from their guests, and maintain esoteric bans that can easily be broken by visitors who don’t know the rules. It is a realm of wisdom, but it is the cruel wisdom that comes with age and experience, the wisdom of hard choices and the certainty of death.

The resonances and dissonances of Winter magic can be found [[Winter magic|here]].
===Winter Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Winter}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Winter
! Concerns
|-
|[[Agramant]], the Hunter in the Wastes || Hunger, cannibalism, madness, dread
|-
|[[Kaela]], the Lady of Oblivion || Entropy, despair, endings
|-
|[[Sorin]], the Tomb King || Privation, strength from weakness
|-
|[[The Thrice-cursed Court]], the Bound || Curses, power at a price, spite
|-
|[[Wise Rangara]], the Ancient One || Wisdom, tradition,
|}
</div>
The eternals of Winter are often regarded as monsters, and of them all [[Agramant]] seems to take the greatest delight in filling that role. They are uniformly cruel, their nature unforgiving. [[The Thrice-cursed Court]] spread malice, jealousy, spite, and hate in their wake, while [[Sorin]] ensures that the price paid for his boons is always just a little more painful than the bargainer expects. Even [[Wise Rangara]], arguably the most sympathetic of them, lacks any real empathy. She won't hesitate to demand a child remove their own eye in exchange for a boon, reflecting the way that wisdom always comes with a price in the Winter realm.

Perhaps their saving grace is the fact that they don't hide their natures. They never really pretend to be anything other than they are, and make no bones about the fact that they are creatures that should be feared. As with all eternals they are creatures of their realm, sharing in the resonances that manifest in Winter magic, and as such they are not ''solely'' cruel nor do they consider themselves to be wicked. [[Kaela]], for example, understands that an ending can be a mercy, while for all her harshness Wise Rangara genuinely attempts to teach lessons of wisdom and responsibility to those she deals with. Many of them offer boons of protection, warding, and perseverance alongside their darker gifts, and even Agramant never ''forces'' people to take his monstrous boons - knowing their their own greed, weakness of character, or ambition will be more than enough to deliver the foolish into his clutches.

==Day==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:DayRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
A realm of spirit and of shining light, a realm of Sea and Sky. Where the sky and the ocean meet, in the heights and the depths, the eternals of Day seek infinite understanding of the truths of creation. It is a realm that celebrates reason over impulse, thought over instinct, harmony over passion. It is the realm of the higher mind, of the birth of revelation and the death of secrets.

That air itself glows with a golden radiance that seems to cover from all directions, despite the empty sky. In place of a golden sun there is only a limitless vault that becomes brighter and brighter as one looks upwards until the glow is too bright to look upon. The clouds are shimmering fields of silver and gold that drift lazily around in proscribed orbits, never diminishing or increasing in size. The realm itself is a vast ocean of clear water that becomes darker and darker blue as the depth increases. Several miles beneath the surface are structures or creatures that glow with their own light, and to an observer on the surface it might appear that the depths of the ocean are full of stars.

The Realm is scattered with a multitude of islands, a swirling archipelago that never ends. The smallest are a few dozen metres from one shore to the other, the largest approach the size of an Imperial territory. These islands do not exist just on the surface of the water, however. Great blocks of stone and coral hang impossibly in the air, or are drowned deep in the ocean. The inhabitants of the realm move between them with great facility – but the further from the surface an island is, the more important and powerful the beings who dwell there.

Because the air itself glows there are no shadows here. The water of the ocean is so clear that it is many many fathoms before this glow becomes hazy, and due to a peculiar property of the realm the ability to perceive is never impeded. Even in the deepest and darkest abyss, where the light from the sky has faded almost to nothing, creatures can see and hear as if stood on the surface. Such abysses are rare; the depths of the endless ocean are replete with plants that create their own illumination, shimmering crystalline coral, and creatures that radiate all the colours of the rainbow.

Some pre-Imperial mystics claimed that if one were to go down far enough into the ocean, to the point where the very last of the light is gone, one could travel directly to the highest parts of the Realm of Night. This is one of the beliefs of those who teach that the Realm of Day and the Realm of Night are the same realm, rather than two different realms. Eternals of Day and Night both find the idea unbelievably foolish.

The resonances and dissonances of Day magic can be found [[Day magic|here]].
===Day Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Day}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! Eternal of Day
! Concerns
|-
|[[Cold Sun]] || Order, perfection, purity
|-
|[[Kimus]] of the Thousand Eyes || Light, scrying, observation
|-
|[[Leviathan]], the Deepest One || History, foundations, causation
|-
|[[Phaleron]], the Great Library || Knowledge, preservation
|-
|[[Roshanwe]], the Navigator || Discovery, wisdom, truth
|-
|[[Sinokenon]], the Turning Mirror || Hierarchy, connections, religion
|-
|[[Ylenwe]], the Dove || Harmony, mathematics, music
|-
|[[Zakalwe]], the Strategist || Conflict, logistics, strategy
|}
</div>
The eternals of the Day realm are almost uniformly interested in knowledge and precision, discipline and structure. They are slow to anger and rarely allow their emotions to rule their reason. They prize clarity of thought and clear expression and expect those who commune with them to speak their mind. One of the few ways to annoy a day eternal is to waste their time, whether that is by engaging in small talk, tomfoolery or just a lack of discipline and clarity if your approach.

They generally dislike chaos and disorder, and those who spread it. They are rarely transactional, the best way to persuade a day eternal to aid you is usually with compelling logic and a convincing case rather than offers of incentives or payments. They are much more concerned, however, with procedures and principles than other eternals - recent boons from several of these eternals have specifically required the [[Imperial Conclave]] to accept and determine the parameters of those boons. They are more likely than eternals of other realms to want to deliver their boons via the established Imperial houses of power rather than with individual magicians.

==Night==
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">[[File:NightRune.jpg|267px]]</div>
A realm of spirit and of eternal shadow, a realm of endless ancient forest where passion rules, thought gives way to instinct, and joy and terror are both a breath away. The coiling serpents and enigmatic wyrms of Night whisper of the joy of mysteries, and of the riddles whose beauty lies in the act of unravelling rather than the revelation of the secrets wrapped within.

The Realm of Night is, unsurprisingly, dark. The sky is always black, but it is peppered with tiny winking stars. There is usually no moon here, but there are often dim sources of illumination that serve to create oases of safety – or danger – in the general darkness. Firepits, lanterns and torches are common elements here, often serving as the centre of a small settlement or the site for a few hours of revel or battle.

The Realm of Night has weather – hot and sultry or cold and bitter. It might rain, or there might be a dense fog. Weather conditions tend to suggest the presence of an eternal or other powerful entity in the vicinity – the weather, like the realm itself, is subject to the will of those who rule here.

Much of the Realm exists beneath the ground – there are caverns the size of countries in which forests and cities exist, as well as winding mazes that dip through three dimensions in their complexity. The underground realm is as fecund and magical as the aboveground realm – where there is no soil, the rock itself gives forth life in the shape of multicoloured mushrooms and luminous mosses.

The surface is wild, and unconstrained. Much of it is covered in dark forest – and folk tales say that this forest connects in places directly to the darkest and wildest parts of the mortal world and one who has abandoned rationality (drunks and distraught lovers) can wander across the boundaries into the Realm of Night if they are not careful.

The resonances and dissonances of Night magic can be found [[Night magic|here]].
===Night Eternals===
<div style="height: 0;">{{Anchor|Eternals of Night}}</div>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; max-width: 50%;">
{|
|-
! scope="col" style="width: 320px;" | Eternal of Night
! Concerns
|-
| The [[Azoth]]</sup>, the Crucible
|Transformation, alchemy, enlightenment, change
|-
|[[Janon]], the Shadowed Fire
|Passion, freedom
|-
|[[Lashonar]], the Loquacious
|Stories, confusion, speech that moves, oratory
|-
|[[Sadogua]], Brother of Wizards
|Magicians, magic, power, manipulation
|-
|[[Sung]], the Rainbow Serpent
|Mysteries and enigmas
|-
|The [[Whisper Gallery]], the Shadow Courtiers
|Secrets, rumour, art
|}
</div>
The eternals of the Night Realm are divided into serpents and wyrms. The serpents - [[Azoth]], [[Sung]], and (allegedly) the [[Whisper Gallery]] - have wings and no limbs and are ephemeral and cerebral in nature. The wyrms - [[Lashonar]], [[Sadogua]] and [[Janon]] - have limbs but no wings and are more grounded and earthy in nature. All the Night eternals enjoy clever wordplay, elegant language, and a degree of flattery, though for the most part it is elocution and the sophistication of language that they enjoy rather than crude words of admiration or praise.

Night eternals are mercurial by nature and their moods are volatile and sensitive to the smallest detail. They tend to be enigmatic, both in temperament and reasoning and can be difficult to comprehend. The wyrms are given to powerful emotions, but their moods rarely last for long. The serpents are more cryptic, expressing esoteric thinking when provoked.

The Night eternals are shapeshifters, able to change their appearance to suit their wishes. Eternals of other realms [[Eternal#Shifting_Faces,_Different_Forms|sometimes appear differently]], but that is not something they seem to have much or any control over. But in the Night Realm, an eternal's appearance is always a deliberate choice, a mask that they have chosen to wear to present themselves to the world.

Where they interact with the Empire, the eternals of Night are more likely to favour individual magicians or covens, and deal with the established structures of power only when they must. They tend to promote individualism, and are often suspicious of attempts to constrain or limit personal freedom. This can bring them into conflict with Imperial citizens, as they encourage unruly or even downright illegal behaviour in those who deal with them.

In 382YE, two other eternals of the Night realm - [[Murit]] the Shaper and [[Soghter]], Changer of the Ways - were unified to create a new eternal with the assistance of Imperial magicians.
</onlyinclude>

{{Cosmology Further Reading}}

[[Category:Magic]][[Category:Eternals]]

Swords and sorcery

2024-12-10T19:10:17Z

RichardRaynor: /* Overview */ sp

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:382YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>Lady Nimue de Moraine straightened her dress and checked her appearance in the mirror a final time. It was important to look her best today she mused, though perhaps more for her Pride than for professional reasons. She needed to hurry, she'd spent too longing picking appropriate jewellery to match the dress. She'd picked the silver tiara in the end rather than the gold, a small act of rebellion against her heart. She left her maid, Mary, to put the remainder away as she strode out of the pavilion, and began to pick her way along the simple stone path that would take her to the top of the hill.

The negotiations had gone well, uncannily well in her professional opinion. The nobility of the Realm of Flowers were overjoyed by Dawn's continued triumphs and their recent victory over their hated enemy the Druj had been cause for mutual celebration. Now they seemed to be falling over themselves to offer aid. That was their way of course - when Dawn triumphed they would shower her with love, and when tragedy befell them then they would turn on them just as quickly. They were as faithless as they were powerful.

All the more reason to bind them to this compact now. Take what is given when it is freely offered, but wall your heart against their favour when the weather turns cruel she told her apprentice. She wished she'd taken that advice herself, once.

Where had that thought come from? Better not to think about that. Not today. Most of the talks had been with heralds so far, but she would be here today to sign the compact. Something as important as this would require Presence - the laws of magic compelled her. So many years had gone by, would she even recognise Nimue? Lord Boric, the enchanter who had led the negotiations claimed that eternals were incapable of understanding mortal aging. He thought that when they met a mortal again later in life, they would think them a different person. It was a silly idea... but there was some evidence for it.

In a way it made sense. She thought about herself all those years ago. She was a different person then. Nineteen, flush with the confidence of youth. Beautiful, strong, arrogant. Fifty years later, the troubadours called her elegant instead of beautiful. Faint praise indeed, not that it mattered. She'd lost her heart when she passed her test and sworn she would never love again. Now she was an enchantress with the full power of House Moraine arrayed behind her. Heralds and house members alike feared her wroth. It was a fair exchange, all things considered, albeit somewhat involuntary.

She checked her hair was still in place. Mary had spent an age braiding it. The yellow petals were a nice touch, and the winds were just calm enough for them to stay in. Would she remember the night they had lain together on a bower of golden lilies? Of course she wouldn't. Only one heart had broken that night. Faithless they were by their nature. Powerful - but eternally faithless.

She was nearly at the summit now. The great moss-covered stones were coming into view. She could see her colleagues waiting for her and some of their counterparts were already beginning to assemble. She tried not to laugh as she spotted Keki, the funny little koboldi servant of the Mountain King, capering and cartwheeling between the stones.

Enough foolishness, it was time. Today was about glory.... not love.
</ic>

==Overview==
The Dawnish armies have gone from victory to victory. They have driven the druj from Dawn, [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Home_.28Semmerholm.29|sending them fleeing from Semmerholm]]. Then they made common cause with the eternals of summer to [[Semmerholm#The_Golden_Causeway|gain their aid to cross the Semmerlak]] and [[382YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#In_The_End_.28The_Mallum.29|take the Druj by surprise]] invading and swiftly conquering Ossium. Buoyed up by these triumphs, the people of Dawn, noble and yeofolk alike, increasingly see their armies as invincible. Now the mandate that the Dawish national assembly gave Pelleas has created three chances for Dawn to capitalize on these opportunities.

In the wake of the mandate, the armies of Dawn are filled with zeal for conquest and glorious war. For the next year (until the start of the Winter Solstics 383YE) no Dawnish general can issue the [[Army orders#Give Ground|Give Ground]] or [[Army orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]] [[Army orders|orders]]. However if even one of the generals takes advantage of one of these opportunities, this restriction will become ''permanent'' for every Dawnish army. They will never again be able to give ground before a foe, or use cautious inglorious tactics.

==Hounds of Glory==
The Hounds of Glory have prided themselves on their unstoppable nature since the army was founded. The core of the army are battle-hardened knights arrayed in gleaming armour, their shields proudly displaying their house and personal sigils. They are supported by cadres of archers and witches, but what has long made them unique in the Empire is the Courage and the conviction that they draw from their surety of purpose and their commitment to [[glory]] above all other things. In battle they go where the glory is found, where the fighting is thickest, where legends are written.

The Hounds of Glory very publicly strive to be the most glorious army in the Empire; while few are so gauche as to say it openly that comes with the clear understanding of every Hound that that means they are the ''greatest'' army in the Empire.

Driven by the need to prove themselves themselves first among equals, and capitalising on the enthusiasm generated by the Dawnish victories and Pelleas' mandate they have recruited knights from all over Dawn and challenged each to prove their glory in ever more demanding ways. Now they stand ready to capitalise on that success. With 25 wains of mithril and an appropriately worded order their general can request that the knights of the Hounds of Glory perfect their new training. That army's quality would be changed to ''indomitable glory''.

This would mean that '''in addition''' to the current options allowing them to order a ''triumphant charge'' or a ''final stand'', the general of the Hounds of Glory could give the order for the army to fight with an allied army ''at any price''. Thus the Hounds of Glory can prove, once and for all, that there is no army anywhere in the Empire that is their equal.

===Indomitable Glory===
* '''Can give the order to take a named region ''No Matter the Cost'' when [[army orders#Attacking|attacking]]'''.
* '''Can use the ''triumphant charge'' order when [[army orders#Attacking|attacking]]'''
* '''Can use the ''final stand'' order when [[army orders#Defending|defending]]'''.

Every member of an army with indomitable glory is committed to the eternal quest for glory and the need to prove that they are the greatest heroes of the Empire. Their unwavering Ambition, Courage, and Pride in the face of any danger means that they are prepared to take any chance to achieve glory. This allows their general to issue unique orders, taking enormous risks where necessary.

<box>'''No Matter the Cost'''
* '''The ability of this army to capture territory is increased by one-fifth.'''
* '''The general names a single region when giving their orders that they will take at any price.'''
* '''Provided the Imperial side is victorious, the army will gain sufficient additional victory points to take the named region. They will suffer one hundred additional casualties for each additional victory point required.'''
A general who gives the order to take a region at any price is doing everything possible to ensure a glorious victory. Provided that the Imperial side is victorious, the army will succeed in taking the named region. However they will pay a significant price, suffering additional casualties as a consequence of their glorious indomitable advance. After the normal campaign outcomes are calculated, the named region will be completely conquered by the army with indomitable glory, but it will suffer one hundred additional casualties for each victory point required to take that region (and only that region).
</box>

==Golden Sun==
When people think of Dawn their first thought is usually the nation's knights, arrayed in mail, swords gleaming, ready for battle. Those that know Dawn at all will talk of the witches and weavers, of those who speak with the eternals as equals and those who forge magic the way the blacksmith forges armour. The yeofolk are always the last to be mentioned... yet they are the most numerous by far and they are every bit as hungry for glory as their noble kin.

Inspired by the recent victories and urged to seek glory through service to Dawn, thousands more yeofolk have requested to join the Dawnish armies. The Golden Sun, one of the oldest Dawnish armies, has been their first choice, probably because its general is sometimes referred to as the First General of Dawn. As a result there is a short window for Dawn and the Empire to capitalise on this enthusiasm.

As an [[opportunity]] available at the Winter Solstice, should the Senate approve a [[commission]] to [[Imperial_army#Enlargement|enlarge]] the Golden Sun, then the thousands of yeofolk who are looking to enlist can be recruited and trained. As a consequence, the cost to enlarge the army would be 100 wains of mithril and 200 crowns.

==Eastern Sky==
Over-shadowed by Urizen's pre-eminent mastery of the magical arts, those outside Dawn often forget that the nation has powerful magical traditions with deep roots. Their weavers create some of the finest magical items in the Empire (as well as many fine and beautiful mundane things). Clad only in mage-armour, their war-witches enter battle with the same unwavering commitment to glory that marks the knights. But in the crucial area of negotiation with the eternals of summer they are without rival. The unique position of the enchanters combines their mastery of magic with their political and temporal power granting them a respect from the monarchs of the summer realm that they accord to few other mortals.
<div style="float: right; width: 500px; margin-left: 10px; clear: right"><quote by="Pelleas Thorne, Statement of Principle, Dawn National Assembly, Summer Solstice 382YE, Upheld with a Great Majority 156 - 0"> The Dawnish Assembly commends the magicians of Dawn for their contribution to the Imperial war effort and urges witches and weavers to forge their legends with the Dawnish armies.</quote></div>
Inspired by Pelleas' statement of principle unanimously approved by the Dawnish Assembly at the Summer Solstice, a group of enchanters who serve with the Eastern Sky have met in secret with a number of the eternals of Summer. It has taken the best part of six months, but they have managed to hammer out a deal that provides the Empire with a unique opportunity to secure the support of these otherwordly patrons permanently.

Each eternal may only be called on for aid once a year, and never the same eternal two seasons running. At the insistence of their eternal counterparts the deal states that if the Empire ever violates these terms then the aid will be rendered, but the compact with that eternal will be broken. Henceforth that eternal will offer no more aid to the Eastern Sky.

To do so the Empire must commission a great tower of mithril to be constructed at the [[Semmerholm#The_Semmerstones|the Semmerstones]]. The Tower of the East would require 75 wains of mithril, and would need to be constructed in the regio itself. The structure would form a place where the enchanters of Dawn and the Eternals of Summer might meet and discuss business in comfort and security. Rather than appoint someone to oversee the tower, the suggestion is that it become the official residence of the General of the Eastern Sky. If they were an enchanter they might use the tower to meet with their eternal allies and negotiate their help, if not then they could direct others to do so on their behalf.

The tower would take two seasons to construct, but once completed, the quality of the Eastern Sky would change to ''favoured'' a reflection of the close relationship between Dawn and the summer eternals.

As a small additional benefit, the eternals of Summer would ensure that if the Semmerstones were ever seriously attacked, they would draw the Tower of the East into the Summer Realm so that it could not be reached until the danger had passed.

===Favoured===
* '''The army can use traverse the crossroads, triumphant charge, make them pay, stand the walls or merciless onslaught orders once each per year'''

An Imperial army that is favoured by the eternals of a realm can call on them for allies each season. Whichever patron they ask for assistance will determine the nature of the aid, granting the army great flexibility. Most will send soldiers to fight alongside the Empire, but not all the lords and ladies of Summer have armies at their command.

By right of the agreements made, the general is guaranteed the right to call on each eternal once each season and never the same aid two seasons running. The eternals of summer are bound by their word, so they are obliged to provide the aid agreed, regardless of how they feel about Dawn or the Empire at any given point, but they cannot help if the Conclave has given them [[Amity_and_enmity#Declaration_of_Enmity|enmity]]. If an eternal is under enmity, then any attempt to request their aid will automatically fail and the army will default to [[Army_orders#Solid_Defence|solid defense]].

A favoured army is versatile, but can only request aid from each eternal once a year and never the same eternal two seasons running. The general of the Eastern Sky is appointed in Summer. They might immediately employ the Iron Duke's aid to give orders to traverse the crossroads, provided that a different order was given the season before, but then cannot call on Barien again until after the next Summer summit. If the general chooses to override this limitation it will work, but that option will be permanently removed from those available from that point onwards.

<box>'''Favoured Options'''<br>
The Eastern Sun could call on the following Summer eternals for aid. That aid would allow the general to employ a specific order, provided that the eternal is not currently under enmity.
* [[Barien|The Iron Duke]] - Traverse the Crossroads
* [[Eleonaris|The Lion of Summer]] - [[Army_qualities#Glorious|Triumphant Charge]]
* [[Cathan Canae| Lady of the Frost]] - [[Army_qualities#Hard_Bitten|Make Them Pay]]
* [[Adamant|The Mountain King]] - Stand the Walls
* [[Jaheris|The Unicorn Prince]] - [[Army_qualities#Cruel|Merciless onslaught]]
</box>
<box>'''Traverse the Crossroads'''
* '''Can move up to five territories this season. It must still stop moving when it enters a hostile territory.'''
* '''Casualties suffered by this army are increased by a fifth'''
* '''The ability of this army to capture territory is increased by a fifth'''
* '''This is an attacking order.'''
With Barien's aid, the General of the Eastern Sky may order their army to traverse the crossroads. The soldiers take advantage of Barien's aid to move swiftly with the aid of summer magic. Roads seem shorter than people remember then and they always travel in the direction the army wishes to go. Sometimes they may even make use of summer regio to gain strength for their journey, or to enjoy the hospitality of the inhabitants and wash the weariness of the road away. Such expedited travel is dangerous - the army may quickly move beyond its supply lines - but comes with opportunities to take the enemy by surprise.
</box>

<box>'''Stand the Walls'''
* '''Can work to defend a fortification or similar structure that is under attack.'''
* '''The ability of this army to defend territory is increased by a fifth'''
* '''The fortification protects the army that is defending it, taking all the casualties in their place
* '''This is a defensive order'''
With Adamant's aid, the General of the Eastern Sky may order their army to stand the walls, taking advantage of a named fortification under Imperial control to defend the territory against all attackers. In addition to the aid of the eternal, the general's side must control a suitable fortification in the territory otherwise this order defaults to solid defence.

If the region containing the named fortification is attacked by the enemy during the campaign, then the army will benefit from the protection gained. All casualties that the army would have suffered are transferred to the fortification up to the point where the fortification is destroyed (these casualties are not diminished by this, they are transferred one for one). The army only gain this additional benefit if the fortification is attacked.</box>

==Limited Opportunity==
These opportunities are only available during the Winter Solstice 382YE.
<quote by="Pelleas Thorne, Mandate, Dawn National Assembly, Autumn Equinox 382YE, Upheld 82 - 10"> The people of Dawn applaud the great triumphs that our generals and our armies have wrought. Now let us embrace glory, claim victory, an seize the prize. We send Pelleas Thorne with 50 doses of liao to urge every Dawnish soldier to commit themselves body and soul to glory in the service of Dawn.</quote>
==Resolution==
Regardless of the decisions of individual [[general|generals]], the [[Imperial Senate]] agreed to the [[enlargement of the Golden Sun]].

The general of the Hounds of Glory provided 25 wains of mithril after the Winter Solstice and has changed the army's quality to ''Indomitable Glory''.

Famine and feast

2024-07-23T18:52:43Z

RichardRaynor: /* Rhianos */ link fix

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:386YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>Jorgen's skin started to prickle, and the hair at the nape of his neck began to tingle. The room had gone quiet, the usual rumble and grumble of conversations temporarily stilled. "Who are you here to speak for?" he asked instinctively as he looked up.

When he set eyes on the visitor he did a double-take and gave thanks for the heavy desk between himself and them. Someone unfamiliar with Wintermark would probably have mistaken them for Kallavesi from a distance, given the snarling wolf mask they wore, but close up Jorgen could tell they weren't even a person. Their teeth and eyes were wrong for a start and while someone who lacked the civil servant's experience might have mistaken them for a draughir, he could tell they were anything but. The skins and furs they were wrapped in had not, by the stink of them, been properly cured. They had both hands resting lazily on the varnished wood desk, and beneath one was a horrible curved dagger of what looked to be flint with a bone handle. Their eyes, their pupils lumpy and misshapen, glowed a baleful golden-green.

Now they had his attention, with deliberate insolent slowness the "guest" reached out and grabbed a handful of the meat strips from the bowl Jorgen kept on his desk at all times in case a certain bird of his acquaintance came by. Without breaking eye contact, they shoved the raw meat into their mouth, chewing noisily and enthusiastically, hardly bothering to close their mouth. Their tongue was unnaturally long as it slipped out to lick the last of their snack from their lips and chin.

"Nice," they grunted. "An old goat. Could be fresher, though."

The figure grinned, flecks of meat adhering to their sharpened and discoloured teeth. Jorgen looked them up and down, and his stomach dropped precipitously.

"It's Blood-on-the-Snow isn't it?" he asked, despite already knowing the answer.

The snaggle-toothed grin, impossibly, widened even further beneath the twisted snout of the wolf mask.

"Oh yes," it growled as it leaned across the desk that all of a sudden did not make Jorgen feel anywhere near as secure as it had a moment ago. "Yes it ''is'' Blood-on-the-Snow, at last. And I can already tell that we are going to have ''so much fun''."</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AgramantArt.jpg|title="Voice of the Pines". Artist Unknown. An enigmatic part of the House of Leaves collection.|caption=It has been quite some time since Blood-on-the-Snow was invited to parley by a Winter archmage.|align=right|width=300}}</div>{{audio|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sjl74TviWAA}}
==Overview==
* '''Six eternals responded to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages.'''
* '''Four have offered a meeting of some kind; two have responded with a series of offers to Imperial citizens'''
The six Imperial [[archmage|archmages]] are each empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to a single [[eternal]] of their realm each season. The eternals are bound to respond to their communication, although very rarely another entity from that realm will speak on their behalf. Their response might involve a formal [[Archmage#parley|parley]] or a private meeting with the Archmage; they might respond directly to the message; or they might decline to meet for some reason.

During the Winter Solstice, each archmage dispatched a plenipotentiary and as the Spring Equinox approaches, six eternals send messengers to deliver their replies.
==The Lictors==
{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}
* '''The Lictors will send emissaries to the Hall of Worlds at 14:00 on Saturday'''
* '''The meeting will be a ''very'' formal parley'''
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Edmundo of Damakan's Forge'''
At noon, a week after the end of the Spring Equinox, an emissary emerges from the [[Regio#Imperial Regio|Imperial regio]]. It is quite short, spindly, and entirely inhuman. Wrapped in a cowled dark-green cloak, it wears a mask of metal that conceals its features save for its surprisingly large, round, and expressive eyes. When it walks, it jingles slightly - crossed over its narrow chest are two heavy-looking bronze chains, although they don't impede its nimble gait at all. It heads purposefully to [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]], ignoring the attention it draws and deftly avoiding attempts to intercept it.

It's unable to reach the desks in the Hub, but gratefully stands on a footstool when such is provided. It announces that it is a first-class Messenger from the City of Bond and Bar and it bears a reply to the invitation of Archmage Edmundo, whose name is well known in the halls of the Cities of the Iron Labyrinth. The [[Lictors|Sovereign Lords]] of the Green Iron Prison accept the invitation to [[Archmage#Parely|parley]] and look forward to renewing their relationship with the Empire.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=LictorsJohn.jpg|caption=The [[Lictors]] have begun to refer to themselves as the Sovereign-Lords of the City of Bond and Bar.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
The parley will take place in [[Anvil#The_Hall_of_Worlds|the Hall of Worlds]], and will of course be formal in nature. The archmage, as the representative of the Empire, will determine who among their fellow citizens can speak. If there are more than two incidents of individuals talking out of turn, the representatives of the Lictors will be forced to depart. They also request that representatives of Anvil's magistrates be present, ready to arrest and prosecute any citizen who violates the rules of parley (since it is a case of [[List_of_Criminal_Offences#Crimes_against_the_Processes_of_the_State|subverting the agencies of the state]] under Imperial law).

Topics to be discussed will include the situation in the [[Basileus Flint|City of Locks]] as well as some more general digressions into the politics of the Autumn Realm's cities; how the Empire can resume friendly relations with the City of Bond and Bar; and the enforcement of oaths and contracts between eternals of the Iron Labyrinth and the Empire (among others).

On that latter note, the Lictors extend a boon to Imperial magicians - and they are extending similar boons to magicians in other nations. It is a boon they have offered in the past, to individuals and via enchanted seals, but they choose to recognise the Empire's commitment to ensuring its citizens follow their own clear laws by extending it unilaterally to any Imperial master of Autumn lore. The ritual [[Scrivener's Bloodmark]] is intended to ensure that a contract remain binding on all parties involved. The ritual is designed to allow the magic to be extended, but this can prove unsatisfying when it is not clear how long an agreement should last for. As such, if the magicians performing the ritual invoke the Lictors directly, and provide one ring of [[ilium]] for each signatory, the Sovereign Lords of the City of Bond and Bar will sustain that magic until the contract is completed to the satisfaction of both participants, or one party calls in the associated curse. Furthermore, in the case that the curse is invoked by one of the parties the Lictors may choose to involve themselves directly in visiting appropriate consequences for forfeiture on those involved. ''However'' the emissary is at pains to clarify that should the Lictors choose to become involved they will evaluate the situation and then act in keeping with the wording of the contract... meaning that if the curse has been invoked frivolously or erroneously, their judgment will likely fall on the one doing so rather than their target.

The little emissary then excuses itself and returns to the Imperial Regio, again deftly avoiding any attempts to engage it in further conversation.

==Ossegrahn==
{{CaptionedImage|file=SpringRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}
* '''Ossegrahn agrees to parley with the Archmage of Spring'''
* '''He will speak to the Archmage in the Hall of Worlds at 8pm on Friday, or after Conclave, whichever comes first'''
* '''He has requested the presence of several others; the Knight-protector of Spring, the Keeper of the Golden Fields, Sir Elienne of Dawn'''
* '''He also wants to talk with the Hand of the Healers and the Granger of the Golden Orchard about the relationship between the Navarr and Arhallogen'''
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Ibiss Briarheart'''
Midway between Spring and Summer, as the fields ripen and newborn beasts take their first steps, an emissary of the Spring realm visits Anvil. She is not a herald, but a [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] [[hakima]] wrapped in green and blue silks with a stern demeanour and nested circular tattoos on her face and hands reminiscent of ripples in a pond. She bears a message from [[Ossegrahn|Lord Rain]], in response to Ibiss Briarheart's plenipotentiary.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OssegrahnArt.jpg|caption=''Ossegrahn'' is the bringer of healing and gentle rain.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
The first order of business is to offer thanks to those who helped [[Skeleton_key#Ripples_in_the_Pond_(Ossegrahn)_(Conjunctions)|protect the Tarnfather's charges]]. She asks that the [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]], Nicolas Reaper, and whichever [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] took charge of the expedition to Dawn, come to the Hall of Worlds. ''Coomarta of the Rains'' has some small tokens of appreciation for them and for the folk that saved the innocent creatures driven into the Empire by the violence of the [[Arhallogen|Merciless One]]. They are also looking forward to meeting '''Ser Elienne''' of [[Dawn]], and hearing about their act of profound healing.

The eternal also wishes to speak to '''Raewyn Farkas''', the newly appointed [[Hand of the Healers]] and '''Siân Eternal''' the [[Granger of the Golden Orchard]], about why their fellow [[Navarr]] seem to have chosen to ally with the children of the Spider King rather than help the vulnerable creatures return to the Spring realm as ''Bogfearthan'' asked. The eternal had turned a blind eye to the claim that the Navarr favoured the ''Centipede General'' and now wonders if he has made a mistake. The hakima is clear that ''Brother Harvest'' is reconsidering his patronage of the [[Hand of the Healers#Houses of Healing|Houses of Healing]] if this is who the Navarr truly are.

Other topics of conversation will involve discussing what ''Beckburn'' can do to help restore places damaged by [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]] and the [[Parched earth|Harbingers of Thirst]]. Specifically, he is prepared to offer his aid to the magic the Archmage mentions which would send cleansing waters into the blight that was once the [[Madruga#Great Grasses|Great Grasses]]. ''Willowbraid'' is interested to hear what the Archmage means by suggesting they travel together to the lands of the [[Thule]] to feed their people. He is certainly interested in what the Empire is planning here.

As to the question of a [[College of Magic]], the ''Streamfather'' [[Rain_king#Spring_College|did say]] he'd be prepared to encourage his friends to put together some proposals for a college of healing. All it would require would be for the [[Imperial Conclave]] to formally ask him with a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]]. Obviously such a declaration would need to make it clear that the focus would be on the [[Spring magic#Healing and Vitality|healing]] and [[Spring magic#Fertility|beneficial]] magics of [[Spring magic|Spring]], and it would not be used to codify magic that encourages [[Spring magic#Chaos|corruption]], [[Spring magic#Ruinous|ruin]], or [[Spring magic#Savagery|savagery]]. Given that only one of the [[Rain_king#Gifts_of_the_Cupbearer|healthful magics]] he gifted to the Empire last Spring have been codified, and then only with the intervention of a meddlesome [[eternal]], his reticence to get involved should be understandable.

However, there are some matters he cannot aid with. While the [[Urizen]] may place great value on crystal mana, Ossegrahn does not consider it essential to sustaining health and life. Their [[mana site|mana sites]] may have been cursed, but as far as he knows their [[farm|farms]], [[forest|forests]], and [[herb garden|herb gardens]] are all untouched - which is more than can be said for some of those touched by magic raised by the magicians of that nation. Ossegrahn can not - or will not - raise forests where they do not live. Doing so would cause massive disruption. The coasts of the Empire, the grasslands and meadows and orchards of [[Sarvos]] and [[Necropolis]], are as rich with natural life as any forest. Ossegrahn will not kill and displace these plants and animals merely so Imperial magicians can create [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|magical wards]] more easily. He's also unclear what the Archmage means about [[Surgical skills#Physick|physicks]] treat "more exotic wounds". Is the Archmage asking for ways to make [[Fountain's Bounty]] or [[Woven Strands of Life]] easier to perform?

Finally, the hakima provides a reminder and a caution to the Archmage. Lord Rain feels he has been very, very clear what he [[Rain_king#To_Sow_What_You_Do_Not_Reap|stands for and believes]]. Suffering begets suffering, and he appreciates that the Imperial Conclave has taken steps to prevent Imperial citizens unleashing more of it - such as the decision of the [[Celestial Arch]] to ban [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Interdiction_:_Savagery_of_Armies|rituals that promote savagery]]. But while fighting is sometimes necessary to fight to defend oneself and others, it is ''always'' better to seek ways to preserve life. The eternal is wise enough to know that the Empire is a complicated place, but he will ''never'' abandon his commitment to seeking ways that life can be preserved, violence discouraged, and actions like those [[Ripples and shadows|recently committed]] in [[the Barrens]] never happen again. If all they want is chaotic fecundity that fuels the belief that violence, slaughter, if they actually believe cruel competition is the only way that life to prosper, if there is no space for cooperation or tranquillity inside them, the Conclave would be best to declare [[Alignment#enmity|enmity]] against Lord Rain now. If they are incapable of understanding how the needless spilling of blood holds them back, they should go back to seeking the cursed boons of the ''Merciless Killer'', the cataclysmic gifts of the [[Yaw'nagrah|Devouring Green]], and the devastating blessings of the [[Siakha|Howling Churn]].

==Rhianos==
{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}
* '''The Regent of the Eternal Sea declines parley'''
* '''They offer a boon to anyone performing the ritual Golden Voyage, and any fleet enchanted with the ritual will be able to take part in a unique adventure after the Summer Solstice'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is ''Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''''
The brightly dressed herald that erupts from the Imperial regio a fortnight before the Summer Solstice has visited Anvil before and makes their way swiftly to the Hub to speak with the civil service. They bring a message from the ''[[Rhianos|Regent of the Eternal Sea]]'', in response to the Summer archmage's request for a parley. The herald talks fast, impatient with civil servants attempting to make notes, and is clearly frustrated when asked to repeat itself.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RhianosArt.jpg|caption=The banners of the Regent of the Eternal Sea invariably depict sea creatures, both mundane and fanciful.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
Rhianos is not interested in raids across the [[Bay of Catazar]]. They have seen such things twice now and whatever adventure there may be in it is no longer novel. The Empire has the capacity to launch its own raids by raising an [[Imperial navy]] or two - perhaps by taking advantage of the [[To_see_what_you_sell#Additional_Benefits|extended docks]] at the [[Elosian Architect|Great Harbour of Elos]]? If the Empire does raise a navy or two, on the Bay of Catazar, that would be the moment to seek Rhianos' boons.

The Grendel are of some interest to the Regent of the Eternal Sea, but the Archmage is correct when they suggest Rhianos is a sworn enemy of Siakha - or more rightly, of those who use her boons to despoil and destroy. It's no simple matter for the eternal to "put their thumb on the scales" and direct the flows of fate to bring about specific outcomes, but the herald says the ''Monarch of the Foam'' has "''sung to the dolphins''" and done what they can. There are four [[Sentinel Gate#Conjunction|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] during the coming Solstice, and Rhianos will offer their boons to anyone who takes part. (Further details on this can be found in the '''[[Guide_the_spirit#Ripped_Away_(Necropolis)|Guide the spirit]]''' and the '''[[Children of Wrecks]]''' winds of fortune).

During the Summer Solstice, Rhianos offers his boon to any coven that performs the ritual [[Golden Voyage]]. The magic was partly inspired by the ''Cry of Adventure'' and he has a soft-spot for it. During the performance of the ritual, any magician with at least one rank of Summer lore may consume a dose of [[Tonics_of_the_Open_Sky#Tonic_of_Sunlit_Glass|Tonic of Sunlit Glass]] as part of the casting. Instead of the normal effect, the roleplaying effect - "''you feel a sudden burst of optimism and a rush of positive emotions; you are reminded of past triumphs, hopes and dreams'' - will be greatly intensified and the potion will grant the magician two additional ranks of Summer Lore for purposes of casting the ritual (subject to the [[Magical_skills#Gaining_additional_ranks|normal rules for effective skill]], and counting as a tonic that lasts for the duration of the casting meaning it cannot be combined with other tonics that boost ritual magic). Furthermore, any magician who has mastered the ritual is able to substitute ingots of [[weltsilver]] or [[orichalcum]] for crystal mana. Every three ingots spent will count as two crystal mana towards the performance ''provided'' the magicians include an invocation of Rhianos in the casting and make it clear that the ingots are an offering to the eternal in return for their aid.

Those who do will find one additional benefit - an opportunity to take part in a [[#The Start of the Race|daring race]]!

After delivering their message the herald departs, but on their way out they provide two final pieces of advice. The first is that if '''Cormac Farkes''' is planning to hunt kraken they should be prepared for disaster; a ship might be able to best a young kraken or an inexperienced adolescent but an adult or worse an ''elder'' kraken is beyond the reach of mortal weapons. And if '''Aneira Cadwalon''' is seeking the bear-cloak they covet, they may have more luck speaking to the Sumaah, as Rhianos imagines that the exemplar in question would have been wearing it when he set off to sail into the sunset.<br><br>
{{Anchor|The Start of the Race}}
<big>'''The Start of the Race'''</big><br>
* '''Rhianos announces the creation of a great race - to visit the four corners of the known world'''
* '''To take part in the race, captains must enchant their fleets with Golden Voyage'''
* '''The ritual will let a fleet take part in the first leg of the race - Into the Unknown'''
Rhianos was uninspired by talk of a race around the Bay of Catazar. The Bay seems large to the Empire, the Grendel, and the Iron Confederacy because it is important to them, but it is barely a sea. Adventure is rarely found in one's own back yard, says the Herald. But the concept - a challenging race for ship captains to prove their skill, daring and tenacity - that is exciting! Rather than a race around the Bay, the eternal challenges the captains of the Empire to a race to visit the four corners of the world!

Now a race in which people just see who can make their boat go the fastest couldn't possibly be of interest to anyone, but if the course were filled with peril and calamity that would be a contest worth having! To make it even more exciting, Rhianos thinks it best if nobody know where they are going. Otherwise captains will simply set sail straight for the finish line and what would be the point of that? This will be a challenge to see who can be first to reach the end, but where nobody knows where they are going, how they are going to get there, or even if they will survive. That sounds like a ''proper'' race!
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box>'''<big>Into the Unknown</big>'''<br>This special adventure will take place in downtime and will follow the same pattern as those mentioned in the description of Golden Voyage. The fleet's production will be unpredictable but will still tend to provide the same kinds of things as normal - ingots and measures, money (in the form of valuable luxuries), and herbs but may sometimes include potions or ribboned items.</box></div>
So the King Under the Waves announces that their race will take place over the next year. Four great journeys - one to be completed each season - each to a different part of the world. The winner will be the captain whose crew have the best time over the four legs of the race. To take part in the race, vessels will need a touch of summer in their sails - those who are ready to embrace the adventure will find a route opens up for them.

Following the Summer Solstice any fleet enchanted with ''Golden Voyage'' will have the opportunity to throw caution to the wind and invite Rhianos to guide their ship with the winds of synchronicity. This will be a special [[fleet#Adventures|adventure]] found on the ''independent action'' dropdown called "''Into the unknown''." Instead of their normal production, the fleet will be caught up in an adventure of some kind - like those the ritual normally provides but significantly more unpredictable. What rewards that adventure will bring the ship captain are impossible to predict and will replace all the normal production of their fleet for the season. All the herald can promise is that the captains will ''almost certainly'' survive, provided they are daring enough.

Rhianos will announce details of the second leg of the race next season - for those who survive the journey into the unknown!

==Kimus==
{{CaptionedImage|file=DayRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}
* '''Kimus declines a parley with the Archmage of Day'''
* '''The eternal offers a specific ''boon of finding'' to the Imperial Conclave if they wish to accept it'''
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka'''
A fortnight before the Winter Solstice, a tall creature with very long hair and far more eyes than any human or orc has ever had, arrives at Anvil. They bear a message from ''[[Kimus|She Who Watches]]'', which they deliver in a quiet, formal tone. The ''Thousand Eyes of the Sun and Moon'' thanks the [[Archmage of Day]] for their message, but at this time they decline the opportunity to participate in a [[Archmage#Parley|formal parley]]. They have however prepared responses to the three questions asked.

On the matter of the runeforge in [[Skarsind]], the ''Celestial Eye'' is a little nonplussed. Does the Archmage mean the [[Gildenheim runeforge]] which was the subject of both extensive [[historical research]], and then [[Conduit_to_destiny#The_Runed_Ruins|dismantled and moved]] to [[Hahnmark#Runegrott|Runegrott]] in [[Hahnmark]]? Or do they mean the place Imperial prospectors have dubbed the [[Long_shadows#The_Sorrowful_Tunnels|Sorrowful Tunnels]], which the ''Seer'' knows [[Minister of Historical Research|Minister]] Vaclav has just [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Research_Sorrowful_Tunnels|commissioned]] ''[[Historical_research#Snowstorm_Henk|Snowstorm Henk]]'' to explore and codify? If the latter, the Archmage would at this time be better served requesting aid from [[Roshanwe|Walker on the Littoral]], who would likely be prepared to send one of her warrior-investigators to accompany and protect the [[orc]] researcher while they delve into the past there. Primarily because the ''Still Watcher'' deems it likely the servants of [[Whisper Gallery|secrets]] and [[Sung|mystery]] are likely to take offense at any delving there and ''the Navigator'' has a soft-spot for seekers and dredgers of the past whereas the ''Seer Clad in Veils of Light'' would rather concern herself with the ''now''.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=LordOfEscapedBalloons.jpg|caption=''The Celestial Eye'' seeks to observe all things simultanously.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
The other matter the Archmage raised was the disposition of three specific objects or locations: the grave of [[Gilda Ashwine]], the spear of [[Isaella]], and the [[Pauper's Key]] of [[Emperor Frederick]]. She can help with two of those, if the Imperial Conclave is prepared to ask her and pay her price.

The human being known as Gilda Ashwine was first buried in [[Dawn]], then her remains dug up and transported to [[Bastion]] for internment in a basilica there. When the Synod chose to [[Gilda_Ashwine#Controversy|remove her status as an exemplar]] during the time of [[Empress Aenea]], they asked the Civil Service of the time to disinter her remains and rebury them with appropriate respect. Their aim was to prevent those who continued to act in her name from having a focus for their actions. That location was not recorded, but the ''Oracle of What Is'' could discover it. Presumably the Archmage intends to disturb the grave for a third time? Have they considered the potential consequences of doing so?

The magical key of Emperor Frederick is an [[Ilium#Creating_Artefacts|artefact]] constructed by the renowned artisan Catherine de Sarvos. It allowed the avowedly mundane [[the Throne|Throne]] to enter the Hall of Worlds and attend [[Conclave session|sessions]] of the [[Imperial Conclave]]. The key itself was stolen shortly after Frederick's death and its current whereabouts unknown, but it is still in existence. The ''Unblinking Observer'' could locate it. Presumably the Archmage intends to try and recover it for use by the Empire? Have they considered the potential cost of doing so?

The third object is not within the ken of the ''All-Sighted One''. The eternal presumes the Archmage means the spear - a magical [[Winternight Lifestealer]] - that was used to strike down [[Emperor Nicovar]] rather than one of the many other weapons the [[Navarr]] [[thorn]] wielded during her life? If that is the case, the object cannot be found by the ''Thousand Eyes''. Either it has been destroyed, or it has passed beyond the great sweep of places that the eternal can perceive.

There are often unforeseen circumstances that arise when something lost is found, and the ''Celestial Eye'' is cautious about potential repercussions. Especially Given the recent declarations of the Imperial Synod. Where the engines of the Imperial state have expressed concerns about the acceptance of boons, it is simply reasonable to ensure one's boon has been properly delivered and accepted. As a consequence, during the Summer Solstice she offers them her ''[[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#A_Boon_of_Finding|boon of finding]]'' as she did [[Hierarchs of sea and sky|last autumn]]. To invoke it, a [[Concord|Declaration of Concord]] must be presented and agreed on. The Declaration must be either “We ask the Thousand Eyes of the Sun and Moon to find the mortal remains of the human known as Gilda Ashwine” or “We ask the Thousand Eyes of the Sun and Moon to find the Pauper's Key of Emperor Frederick.” These are the things the Archmage has asked the eternal to find. Kimus will locate the item or place named, provided it exists, and share their findings with the Conclave at the Autumn Equinox.

==Sung==
{{CaptionedImage|file=NightRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}
*'''Sung will send some heralds to the Hall of Worlds at 17:00 on Saturday'''
*'''Her heralds will want to speak on matters the Archmage has raised, while also offering small boons in exchange for interpretations of Signs and Portents visions experienced at this Summer Solstice'''
*'''The meeting will not be a formal parley'''
*'''The current Archmage of Night is Eliina "Realm's Visionary" Lailasdottir'''
Towards the end of spring a cloud of multicoloured mist begins to gather over the Imperial Regio, a series of images playing across it: a multicoloured spider, a fluttering veil, a chain shattering, a shimmering star atop a mountain. It is accompanied by a low rumbling noise which initially causes some concern, but is eventually determined to be the sound of a large creature, deep in thought. The strange scene causes quite a large crowd to gather, all speculating over what it could mean. Despite this (or perhaps precisely because of it) quite a bit of time goes by before the force behind it reveals herself.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SungArt.jpg|caption=The ''Feathered Serpent'' cloaks herself in mystery and obfuscation.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
Eventually, however, the voice of the ''Rainbow Serpent'' rings out with a message for the Archmage of Night. She thanks the “Realm’s Visionary” for reaching out to her in such an impressionistic, riddling manner. The message has led her to much ruminating on the nature of visions, and what it means to seek meaning within them. In addition to sending one of her heralds to speak on the subjects the Archmage appears to be interested in, she offers an opportunity to any imperial mages interested in contemplation of the visions offered by Signs and Portents and Goosewhisper Infusions.

Sung’s heralds will arrive through the portal in the Hall of Worlds at 5pm on Saturday, and from there move out to the space next to the Imperial Regio. They will spend some time studying the visions that manifest for this Summer Solstice. They will come with a number of boons to offer in exchange for interpretations of these visions: What events could they be related to? What conclusions can be drawn from them? She is quick to emphasise that the accuracy of these interpretations is not her sole concern. It is just as significant if something ''feels'' right. However these visions must be “fresh”, which is to say experienced within the last 24 hours.

In addition, she has sent a herald to dance through what she describes as “the great pool of visions”, to weave an additional mystery for anyone who wishes to seek it. Those who are able to identify this herald, and give its name to one of her folk during their time at Anvil, will receive an additional reward.

Finally, she has thought long and hard about the [[Clear Counsel of the Everflowing River|ritual she caused to be created]] and the Conclave added to Imperial lore. She has chosen to change how she responds to it, in part thanks to the Archmage of Night's plenipotentiary. She offers a boon to the Empire's seekers of mystery; during the Summer Solstice, any magician who drinks ''Goosewhisper Infusion'' as part of the performance will find the ritual easier to perform. Rather than receiving a vision, they will gain an additional rank of Night lore for purposes of performing Clear Counsel of the Everflowing River, and may use up to three personal mana as if it were crystal mana towards the performance of that ritual (as if they had drunk [[Magnum Opus#Philosopher's Stone|Philosopher's Stone]]. These benefits would count as a [[Potion#Tonics|tonic]] and not be cumulative with other tonics.

==Founder of the Feast==
{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}
* '''The eternal Blood-on-the-Snow has agreed to a parley in the Hall of Worlds'''
* '''It will take place at 10pm on Saturday'''
* '''The eternal requires an additional oath from the Winter Archmage before he will agree to the parley'''
* '''The current Archmage of Winter is Ematius of the Great Library of Ankarien'''
A week before the Summer Solstice, a messenger emerges at the Imperial Regio. It is a shaggy figure wearing sealskin and animal furs, long lanky clumps of blood-matted hair, and the mask of a snarling wolf covering its face. Its coat is similar to that of a [[Suaq]] hunter, but rather than the images of [[Aspect_magic#Beast_Magic|beasts and birds]] it is marked with stick-figures that are clearly humans or orcs being slain in a variety of inventive ways. It bears a barbed spear from which hang a pair of mummified hands, one orc and one human, severed at the wrists.

The creature calls itself ''Yenneck of the Fork'', and it does nothing to conceal its allegiance, cheerfully telling any who ask that it is an emissary of ''[[Agramant|Voice of the Pines]]'' here at the behest of the [[Archmage of Winter]]. It seems to be daring the Imperials it meets to try and strike it down before it delivers its message. It saunters through Anvil, taking its time, apparently enjoying the shocked glances of those who realise what it is - or those who are simply horrified by its appearance.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Agramant.jpg|caption=Agramant encourages atrocious acts in the name of survival.|align=right|width=300}}</div>

It bears greetings from its master, who is a little hurt it has taken the Archmage so long - given they say they are not afraid to deal with the ''Wastewalker'' - to invite them to parley. '''Ematius of the Great Library of Ankarien''' has after all held the [[Archmage#Staff_of_the_Archmage|Staff of Winter]] for two-and-a-half years at this point and there are only so many eternals of the Winter realm prepared to speak to the Empire. No matter, the ''King of the Feast'' is eager to accept the offer of parley.

The ''Dream of Famine'' is minded to come in person, and bring some members of his court as well. He intends to arrive at 10pm Saturday night. But they want an additional assurance from the Archmage, especially given how attempts to meet with Imperial magicians have gone previously.

Specifically they require an oath, from the Archmage at the beginning of the parley. A formal oath delivered in front of Imperial magicians, asserting that none who accompany the ''Howler in the Wastes'', and none who speak to him or his servants in the Hall of Worlds, will be harmed as a consequence. He knows how keen on treachery the Empire is, and wants to be very clear that should the parley be breached by Imperial Citizens in addition to the unpredictable effects of breaching that particular binding law, the Archmage will suffer personally. Likewise, if the timorous fools that enforce the Empire's laws choose to harass any of those who attend for speaking to the eternal - which is not a crime even under Imperial lore - the eternal will be freed to act as they see fit on their behalf. Which means of course that the parley must be open to any who wish to attend - the archmage cannot forbid entry to the Hall of Worlds during a parley after all.

An archmage who parleys with an eternal under enmity must be scrupulous in their conduct if they wish to avoid investigation for potential [[List_of_Criminal_Offences#Crimes_of_Position|treason]], but the ''Creak of the Ice'' doesn't care about that. The ''Voice of the Pines'' is more than happy to hear the Archmage's plans to start a war with the [[Iron Confederacy]] if that's what Ematius wants. The Suranni have their own tedious wards but they're no less riddled with secret cults dedicated to the ''Wicked Liar'' than the Empire is. There's certainly potential for mayhem there. There are a few other matters the eternal will likely be prepared to speak about, a few things he himself is interested in, but he plans to see how the parley goes. He's no stranger to pointless meetings that are just about insulting him, or telling him he's wicked and wrong, after all.

The ''Giver of Gifts'' does not request anyone particular attend the parley - Imperial citizens are free to come or not as they wish - but mentions that their master is prepared to speak with '''Severin de Rondell''' and those currently poking around the ''Necklace of the Swan'' if they want to discuss that particular relic of a bargain unfulfilled.

Beyond the parley, however, he plans to offer boons to Imperial magicians as a sign of good faith. He is aware that one of his rituals - [[Treacher%27s_Quill|Crimson Letters]] - has been made part of [[Urizen lore]]. During the Summer Solstice any magician capable of using that ritual is encouraged to use it to request a boon of the ''Horned Manticore'' on their own behalf or on behalf of others, and the eternal will consider each one carefully and likely respond. There's no point using this boon to ask for something stupid; no wishing for the [[Druj]] to all die in a fire or the like. But something straightforward, and the ''Giver of Gifts'' will see what they can do about fulfilling that request with one of his trinkets. For example, he will be prepared to swap seven crystal mana apiece for arcane projections of ''Crimson Letters'', [[Unleash the Beasts Within]], [[The Crimson Feast]], [[Thirst of the Devourer]], or [[Loosen the Shackles]]. He's prepared to negotiate providing ritual texts of the same to covens prepared to pay his price. He's also prepared to provide magicians who ask for it with trinkets that empower their ability to perform [[curse|curses]], or rituals of [[Winter magic]] that grant strength of body or will. Finally he's more than happy to provide those who ask with magical weapons or talismans that will help them butcher their foes, feast on their blood, endure their blows, or tear their stupid rules and constraints to pieces.

Obviously, accepting any of these boons will not only be a major issue for the Imperial Conclave and risk the attentions of the magistrates, but will likely convince the [[Imperial Synod]] that they are right to denounce deals with eternals. But, as the herald says, fuck 'em. Who cares what they think?

==Timetable==
These meetings are taking place in a number of places; in chambers reached via the Hall of Worlds. The times, and the eternals involved, are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday|| 20:00 || [[Ossegrahn]] || Spring || A parley in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday|| 14:00 || [[Lictors]] || Autumn || A ''very'' formal parley in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday|| 17:00 || [[Sung]] || Night || Heralds in the Hall of Worlds to speak to visionaries; not a parley
|-
| Saturday|| 22:00 || [[Agramant|Blood-on-the-Snow]] || Winter || A parley in the Hall of Worlds
|-
|}

Malign spiritual presences

2024-06-27T10:43:04Z

RichardRaynor: Heading fix

<quote by="The Shadow of Crescencia">Tomas moved to pick up the sword. Sensing something wrong, I cried out a warning, but it was too late. I could see the change in him immediately. I instructed him to put the weapon down. He refused and told me that he no longer had to do what I told him. I knew then that I would have to exorcise the vile force that controlled him now, but first I would have to separate him from the cursed blade - and for that I would have to fight him.</quote>
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Whittle Folk.jpg|align=left|caption=Sects dedicated to a malign spiritual presence, such as the [[Mournwold#Whittle|Whittle folk]], can prove a major threat to the stability of the Empire - and the souls of the virtuous.|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==

Although there are seven virtues that are known to empower the human soul and guide it through the Labyrinth of Ages, there are other spiritual forces that are present in the world. These malign spiritual presences can arise from false teachers, barbarians, foreigners, or even simply by circumstance. Amongst the duties of priests of the Way is cleansing and purging the malign spiritual presences utilising an appropriate [[Religious skills|liao ceremony]].

Malign spiritual presences have a number of known sources and manifestations. These include:

=== False Virtues ===
There are some malign auras that initially appear harmless, even beneficial, but which were ruled as un-virtuous and excluded from the [[Imperial Theology|Doctrine of Seven]] by the early Synod. Consequently, the promotion and propagation of these auras and presences is regarded as blasphemy under Imperial law. Nevertheless, some blasphemous cults still arise and either explore these auras in secret, or seek to change the Doctrines of the Faith to press for their inclusion.

=== False Gods ===
In their ignorance, some barbarians and foreigners encounter spiritual auras and manifestations and, instead of understanding that they are echoes from the Labyrinth of Ages, see them as the presence of gods, demons or other supernatural entities. Priests of these false gods may even believe that they are invoking the power of some divine being through their warped approaches to religious ceremonies.

=== Phenomena and Phantasmagoria ===
While the propagation of blasphemous cults and the worship of false gods is carried out via mortal agencies, there are occasions where malign spiritual presences can seem to occur as a natural, or indirectly occurring, phenomenon. For example, a house in which a horrific crime is committed may attract a malign spiritual aura related to the nature of that crime. Additionally, it has been known for vile and wicked spirits - condemned to wander the Labyrinth of Ages for all time - to break loose and seize control of mortal hosts.

== Examples of Malign Spiritual Presences ==
The following are a few of the spiritual presences that have been excluded from the Doctrines of the Faith and so whose accepted presence constitute at least blasphemy if not also idolatry.

=== Hope ===
Seemingly benign, this aura has also been referred to as Fortune or Fate and generally conveys that there are greater supernatural forces at work, and that these forces are benign and can be trusted. This seductive aura has been deemed by Synods past as being anathema to all the virtues for it discourages effort and striving by mortals. It is also an aura often associated with false gods for it encourages faith in greater powers, which is idolatry.

=== Peace ===
Another apparently benign aura, Peace has also been known as Tranquillity and Harmony. It was ultimately deemed dangerous for promoting passivity and being in conflict with virtues such as Ambition, Courage and Vigilance. At its worst, Peace promotes apathy, indifference, and compromise in the face of challenges that confront, even threaten, the Empire. The restful nature of Peace auras is alluring and, some claim, mildly addictive, which is a quality that has been exploited by blasphemous cults and false gods.

=== Anarchy ===
Auras of Anarchy - sometimes called Freedom or Liberty - stir mortal souls against structures and order and were recognised at an early stage as self-destructive forces as well as a threat to the unity and heart of the Empire. Less prone to spontaneous manifestation than some malign presences, Anarchy has been known to take root in blasphemous cults that seek to tear down all the Empire has sought to build. This false virtue was extensively preached during the [[Freedom Heresy]].

=== Vengeance ===
Auras of Vengeance - occasionally called Justice - are one of the malign spiritual presences that seem to crop up through all agencies in almost equal measure. The aura has been known to manifest in areas of sudden violence and, as such, is commonly associated with hauntings. Equally, there are false gods and blasphemous cults that utilise auras of Vengeance to steer souls down dark paths. These destructive auras were deemed unvirtuous by the early Synod for fuelling cycles of violence and goading citizens into action, often in defiance of Imperial law, which is both disloyal and unwise.

=== Fear ===
Auras of Fear, like auras of Vengeance, are well known for arising spontaneously, as well as through false gods and blasphemous cults. In the case of the latter two, it is not that Fear is venerated but more that it is used as a means to goad and control other mortal souls. The unvirtuous nature of these auras is apparent in the manner that they stand in direct opposition to virtues such as Courage and Ambition.

=== Hatred ===
There was some significant debate within the early Synod before auras of Hatred were deemed unvirtuous. Its proponents argued that it was a powerful and motivating force that spurred mortal hearts into action. It was ultimately ruled to be in conflict with the more widely recognised and respected virtue of Wisdom, being irrational and indiscriminate in its nature. However, there are false gods and blasphemous cults that still seek to use these auras as a means to control mortal souls. Recent interest in learning more about this wicked spiritual presence led to the [[Minister of Historical Research]] commissioning further investigation, summarized in the report [[Maude, and the nature of Hatred]].

==Further Reading==
*[[The Way|The Way of Virtue]]
*[[Imperial Theology]]
*[[Imperial Synod]]
*[[Religious skills|Religious Skills]]
*[[Recent history|Recent History]]

* [[Eater-of-Hope]]
[[Category:Religion]]
[[Category:The Empire]]
[[Category:Auras]]

Against the Jotun

2024-04-02T19:57:20Z

RichardRaynor: /* Frost */ sp

[[Category:Recent History]] [[Category:385YE Winter]] [[Category:Military Council]]
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Against the Jotun.jpg|caption=The Jotun he Jotun strive to follow a simple code of honour - and despise those who break their oaths.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
==Frost==
The Imperial armies have rampaged across Tromsa, slaying the Jarl, bringing down the walls of Viheltavathorn, in pursuit of the pretender. With the Marcher armies in the vanguard, they brought vengeance to the roof of the world. Before the gates of Oksenesfestsal itself, the heroes of Anvil fought and defeated the warriors of the new Jarl, Igya Olgafsdottir. They [[A_tale_told#Falling_.28Battle_Opportunity.29|claimed their ransom]], and Mathilda Fisher is now in Imperial custody. And then, their work done, they withdrew. A measured retreat east, back across the chill taiga and snow-dusted hills, across the forested borders of the Icewood back into [[Sermersuaq]].

Even as the Empire quits Tromsa, scouts bring news of an immense Jotun force entering Rikskog from the south. Details are sketchy, beyond the fact that Yrsa Jansdóttir, Jarl of Jarls, Queen of Kalsea leads the armies of the west. An overwhelming response; perhaps inspired by fear that the Empire may despoil Mount Majastind and the graves of the ancestors. With the garrison of Oksenesfestsal, and the support of the fyrds, the Queen's forces move to catch the Imperial invaders. They are too late; the Empire has already quit Tromsa, well on their way to their next engagements.

The Jotun quickly reclaim the land the Empire conquered. Any stragglers swiftly fall beneath the hammers and axes of the furious orcs. Under the shifting ribbon of the northern lights, as the snow begins to pile up, silence falls over Tromsa.

===Game Information: Tromsa===
Imperial armies have withdrawn from Tromsa. In their absence, a significant Jotun force has swiftly reconquered all the regions taken by the Empire last season.
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Storm Shall Not.jpg|caption=The Jotun strive to follow a simple code of honour - and despise those who break their oaths.|align=left|width=600}}</div>

==Fire==
While the Bounders, the Strong Reeds, and the Fire of the South embark on the long march south, the rest of the Imperial armies do not go far. A brief camp is made at Olgafsdottirshal in [[Sermersuaq#Tanikipari|Tanikipari]] (and there is an irony to these warriors resting before a castle built by the new Jarl of Tromsa after so recently assailing her home). A short break, long enough to allow the Red Wind Corsairs to join them before crossing the border again – but this time further south, into the [[Skallahn#Iron Stand|Iron Stand]], into [[Skallahn]].
===A Rift of Fire and Night===
The Green Shield lead the way into Skallahn, still accompanied by both the [[Knights of Glory|red-and-gold knights of the Summer court]] and the emissaries of [[Janon|Fire Muse]]. They are not alone; heralds of Janon also fight with the Red Wind Corsairs and the Summer Storm. Half-naked despite the cold, intricate golden tattoos swirling across their crimson skin, they urge the soldiers they battle alongside to give into their passions, inspiring them to greater and greater acts of heroism and courage.

There is obvious friction between the fey knights who fight with the Green Shield, and these whirling warriors of Janon. Especially since the latter take every opportunity to challenge the servants of Eleonaris, to question their commitment to their cause. While resting the scops and mediators who fight beneath the Green Shield banner are called on several times to intercede, to diffuse the tension between the groups. At least once the army enters Tromsa, there are more than enough Jotun to keep the servants of the Lion and the Flame too busy to fight each other.

Alongside the armies come more than sixty Imperial captains, leading their warbands into Skallahn. An entire additional army, made up of fighters from several Imperial nations, especially those of Wintermark and the Imperial Orcs.
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;"><quote by="Lofyn Blood-cloak, General of the Bloodcloaks">Blood-cloaks, look how we dance in the blood & ice of the north. How can we fight and adapt for our Empire. You are my pride. The Dragon of Zenith, Aulius Warcaster comes, to bid us welcome Zakalwe's wise heralds to witness your heroism, to learn our weaknesses, that we might prove our potential. Welcome master strategist, you saw the Bloodcloaks fall, see how we soar.</quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;"><quote by="Iron Osric, General of the Green Shield">Heroes of the Green Shield, hail to thee, there has been triumph in Tromsa and we hold to our word. Shield and Cloak, a sworn oath. Pursue the path of Guntherm, a dance of din points to delight the servants of shadowed Fire. As on the Battlefield, so across the border. Forward to the Fray, fight with honour.</quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;"><quote by="Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo, General of the Red Wind Corsairs">Freeborn! For years we have answered the choice of the Jotun Sword-hand. We have let them choose the battlefield, choose the retreat; now we take the battle to them! We blaze through Iron Strand and we show the Jotun what the honour and passion of the freeborn burns on. As on the battlefield so the campaign - We will show the Jotun that we can fight by their rules and beat them at it! We invite the Heralds of Janon to witness our attack! Now, my courageous, burning freeborn - Board them!</quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;"><quote by="Irontide Skorr, General of the Summer Storm">Warriors of the Summer Storm, heralds of Janon. Following our push into Tromsa we now move back into Skallahn on a Balanced Attack. Let's fight with Wisdom, Courage and the Ambition to destroy a fortification there. Let us be passionate in our warfare and if we have any downtime then we shall construct a pit and FIGHT! We will continue taking the fight to the Jotun and show them what we can do!</quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;"><quote by="Stanley of Chalkdown, General of the Tusks">Jacks of the Tusks! We continue our strike against the Jotun in Iron Stand and the fortress in Ulfsmoor. As on the battlefield so on the campaign, are fight as the virtuous honoured we will show the Jotun that white granite will not shield their lands from the treads of our boots! The Imperial frontier expands by the reach of our bills.</quote></div>
The [[Bloodcloaks]] and the [[Tusks]] set the pace, [[Clarity of the Master Strategist|taking advantage]] of the boons provided them by Imperial magicians. The Bloodcloaks are also advised by a lieutenant of the [[eternal]] [[Zakalwe]], his Polemarch of Strategy. The strategy laid out by the Imperial generals is surely an ambitious one; to trick the Jotun into fighting where they are not, then sweep across the [[Skallahn#Iron Stand|Iron Stand]] and lay seige to the squat stone keep of the [[Skallahn#Ulfrsborg|Ulfrsborg]].

Both Wintermark armies [[Wintermark_military_concerns#Army_Orders|fight with honour]], ready to step in should their allies forget themselves and give in to the demons of warfare. In particular, they are at pains to make sure there is no widescale looting of settlements, no slaughter of civilians or thralls by either side. The Jotun cannot help but be aware of this, and it means that when the Winterfolk fight their enemies give quarter – and ask for it in return in the expectation it will be honoured. The Red Wind Corsairs in particular take steps to ensure their corsairs restrain their natural urges; it was not too long ago that the Winterfolk disparaged the Freeborn as little better than maggots. Their behaviour on this campaign goes along way toward finally burying that unfair stereotype.
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Let Us Show Them.jpg|caption=Let us be passionate in our warfare.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
For their part the orcs of the Summer Storm are keen to test themselves against the walls of Ulfrsborg, but also against each other. Wherever they establish an armed camp, the 'Storm cut logs and build fighting pits, exulting in the thunder of the blood and the roar of their ancestors beneath the cold skies of the Jotun lands. Urged on by their fellows and by the enthusiasm of the heralds of Janon, they lose themselves in the tumult of the challenge, in the clamour of the ancestors. And into that clamour... something unlooked for.

Perhaps it is something about this place, about Skallahn. Perhaps it is to do with the [[A_lost_king#The_Bone_Temple|recent lessons]] of the [[Illarawm]]. Perhaps it is the creatures of the Night, weaving passion and intuition into their music. Whatever it is, some of the orcs emerge from these rough fighting pits changed. They speak of hearing a voice – a clear, unambiguous voice – of an ancestor. Not the joy-of-battle voice of Sjöfn of the Bittenblade (although she is there, too, in the pit). Not one of the angry slaves. Something - someone - else. Clearly, for the first time, a voice that talks to them in the exhilaration of the pit. Urges them to cleave to their fellows, to find their family and make it the heart of them. To keep safe those they love, and who love them in return. And to strike mercilessly, absolutely, to destroy anyone or anything that threatens that heart, that love. To rip them apart with bare hands if needs must, to hunt a traitor to the ends of the earth and further should it come to that. To never forget. Nothing is forgotten, the voice says, calmly. Nothing is ''ever'' forgotten.

There's no name to this voice, not yet anyway. But those who hear it know without needing to think about it that it is come from inside and outside at once – an ancestor voice. At first they might consider it to be a personal, private thing. But as they speak of their experience, haltingly at first, they find others who have heard that same voice, telling them similar things. The more orcs speak of it, the more come forward to admit they heard that voice. The more orcs come out of the fighting pits having heard its echo. There are many more questions than answers. Who is this ancestor? Why do orcs across the Summer Storm hear its counsel. Why this voice, here, now?

The voice doesn't provide answers, of course. What ancestor does? In the cold light of the dawn, blinking, muddled from a night of debating this voice, orcs shake their heads and put aside the world of the spirit for the world of steel and stone. It's time to cross the Iron Plain, to Ulfrsborg, and the hall of Jarl Ottesen!
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><th>Captain</th><th>Nation</th><th>Territory</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td>Aethwin</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Sermersuaq</td><td>House Gerís</td></tr>
<tr><td>Aulus Warcaster</td><td>Urizen</td><td>Zenith</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Mouse of Dawn</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Astolat</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Finch Hawthorne</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Hartell Household</td></tr>
<tr><td>Edwin de Warrenne</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Order of the Forgotten Word</td></tr>
<tr><td>Rook</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Uhtræd Ironfeld</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Cynwulf Ashburh</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Darkwolves of Argonne</td></tr>
<tr><td>Dægmund Dunning</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Hengest Dun</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Leif Dunwolf</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Penda Dunning</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Seht Ravenson of Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Theoderic Ulfarsson</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tager Defender of the Fallen Tyrshalt</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Renwaerd</td></tr>
<tr><td>Rane Shardbearer</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>Sigehold Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lofyn Blood-cloak</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Hahnmark</td><td>The BloodHands</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sampo Mikkola</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Kallavesa</td><td>Brackenbeak Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Leif Dreambinder</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Kallavesa</td><td>Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ryske</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Kallavesa</td><td>The Tylianson Ploughshare</td></tr>
<tr><td>Gerard the Waylander</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mitwold</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Tancred of Meade</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mitwold</td><td>House Garamond</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lawrence Talbot</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mitwold</td><td>The Talbots</td></tr>
<tr><td>Oliver Shepherd</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mitwold</td><td>The Talbots</td></tr>
<tr><td>Rasaldalph Mottes</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Happiston Volunteers</td></tr>
<tr><td>Griselda 'Zelda' Snowdrop</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>The Unbound Union</td></tr>
<tr><td>Maria Alexandrovna Kabanova</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Ossium</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Arja Fiskdottir</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Sermersuaq</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Guthelm</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Sermersuaq</td><td>Hendal Hearth</td></tr>
<tr><td>Aethelstan Korping</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Sermersuaq</td><td>House Gerís</td></tr>
<tr><td>Iron Osric</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Sermersuaq</td><td>Sigehold Hall</td></tr>
<tr><td>Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Sermersuaq</td><td>Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd</td></tr>
<tr><td>Kellua Itsepainen</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Sermersuaq</td><td>Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd</td></tr>
<tr><td>Alfred Houtman Fella</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Hartell Household</td></tr>
<tr><td>Teddy Rose</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Hartell Household</td></tr>
<tr><td>Alfmund Fordwinsson</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Kallavesa</td><td>Darkwolves of Argonne</td></tr>
<tr><td>Arthur Ash</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>The Hogsgrove Coppice</td></tr>
<tr><td>Farwatch Thirrik</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Frith</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Ashborn Trosk</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Ashborn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Shad</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Ashborn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Vana</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Ashborn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Groza</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bleakshield</td></tr>
<tr><td>Arora</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bloodcrows</td></tr>
<tr><td>Bloodcrow Agna</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bloodcrows</td></tr>
<tr><td>Bloodcrow Na'grul</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bloodcrows</td></tr>
<tr><td>Bloodcrow Rakk</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bloodcrows</td></tr>
<tr><td>Bloodcrow Rasp</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bloodcrows</td></tr>
<tr><td>Bloodcrow Vassa</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bloodcrows</td></tr>
<tr><td>Graul</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Bloodcrows</td></tr>
<tr><td>Redhand Gezzar</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Redhands</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sand Viper Ikk</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Sand Vipers</td></tr>
<tr><td>Skywise Karrak</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>Skywise</td></tr>
<tr><td>Irontide Dakred (Dak)</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>The Irontide</td></tr>
<tr><td>Irontide Rak'sha</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>The Irontide</td></tr>
<tr><td>Irontide Rus</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>The Irontide</td></tr>
<tr><td>Irontide Skorr</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>The Irontide</td></tr>
<tr><td>T'onk</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Skarsind</td><td>The Irontide</td></tr>
<tr><td>Viktor von Temeschwar</td><td>The League</td><td>Temeschwar</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Sebastián Fawnwood</td><td>Dawn</td><td>The Barrens</td><td>House Fawnwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>Urien Novarion</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Weirwater</td><td>Anvil Lance</td></tr>
</table></div>

===Steadings of the Hills===
The plan does not survive contact with the enemy, of course. There is always some unexpected element that sets a strategy unravelling, and the wise general understands this. “Spend no time on the plan,” said one clever League general. “Spend all your time thinking on the contingencies for when it all goes wrong.”

In this case, the unexpected element is the presence of four armies of southern Jotun, recently arrived across the [[Skallahn#The_Kongeg.C5.91r|Kongegőr]]. They must have marched north with the others, with those busy “liberating” Tromsa, but these warriors stayed behind in Skallahn. Perhaps the intent is to resupply; perhaps the wily Jarl of Keirheim or the far-sighted Queen of Kalsea predicted the Imperial plan; perhaps something more political is at work. Either way, the banners of Bjorgthorn Hammerhand , general of the Southern Bear, and the grey owl standard of the [[Hordalant#Iron_Host|Iron Host]] flutter alongside those of the Jarl in Ulfsborg, while the Bear Who Swims and the Mandowla's Roar enjoy the hospitality of Keirheim. They are a long way from home, but as soon as news of the Imperial invasion reaches them, the generals bestir their armies to meet the threat from the east.

The Jotun have supernatural allies of their own, albeit fewer than the Empire. Alongside the Southern Bear marches another force of knights drawn from the Fields of Glory. Tall orcish warriors in heavy armour, they fight beside a pride of massive golden lions barded in matching armour. There is a little concern as to what will happen when they face the Green Shield; but in the event both groups of knights seem to relish the opportunity to test themselves against the other on the field of war, and the servants of Janon in particular revel in the chance to match their passion against the glory of Eleonaris.

The path to Ulfrsmoor is swiftly blocked by the Southern Bear and the Iron Host, with the other two armies moving to attack the Imperial flank. All four armies use their greater familiarity with the terrain to their advantage, but they do not shy away from conflict. Indeed, the Iron Host in particular seem almost desperate to test the strength of the Imperial heroes, especially those of the Summer Storm.

===Still Before The Storm===
While there are innumerable skirmishes and short engagements across the Stand, and in eastern Ulfsmoor, the first major battle takes place in the shadow of the Iron Banner. The fallen [[fortification]] built by [[Emperor Guntherm]] is where the rich markets of Oversgaard are held, and where Jarl Ebbe has their hall, built partially into the old walls of the great castle. Control of the ruins, and of Oversgaard, represents a major strategic goal when it comes to control of the Iron Stand.

Everyone knows the fighting will begin as the sun rises, but in a way the battle really begins shortly before dawn. Bjorgthorn Hammerhand invites the leaders of the opposing armies to meet with him on the field below Oversgaard. Two small groups of orcs and humans meet on the frosty field between the great armies drawn up to either side. Both sides eye each other cautiously, but the old Jotun champion radiates an easy confidence.

Words are exchanged. A note of bravado here. A nod of recognition for clever tactics. A short mention of earlier meetings on the battlefield. Jarl Ebbe begins to demand the Empire quit the field, but Bjorgthorn squeezes their shoulder, shaking his head, and their angry words fall silent. Instead, the general quietly recognises the decision the Imperial forces have made to meet them as equals, to fight with honour, heroically, gloriously, proudly and courageously. He mentions the Freeborn decision to honour the fallen heroes of Fort Braydon with a mound. He expresses the belief that their ancestors – the Imperial ancestors – must smile on them in this hour.

Things will never return to the way they were, but perhaps there can once again be respect between Jotun and Wintermark, between the orcs of the west and the Freeborn of the south. Perhaps there can even be a new understanding between Jotun and Skarsind.

Shortly before the sun touches the horizon, the general of the Southern Bear raises a battered drinking horn and invites the Imperial champions to share his toast; to hope for a champion's death in battle that will impress the ancestors enough to see them across the Howling Abyss. He seems profoundly unconcerned that many of those present are not orcs.

Then both groups return to their lines, and as the sun crests in the east, with a terrible roar that must surely shake the heavens, the battle begins.
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Dour Marchers.jpg|caption=The Imperial frontier expands by the reach of our bills.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
===Before the Hall of the Iron Jarl===
Alone the Jarl's fyrd would be no match for the armies of the Empire, but they are reinforced by perhaps twenty-thousand warriors from the south and maybe as many as ten thousand soldiers from Keirheim and Ulfrsborg. Thanks to the presence of the Imperial captains, however, the two forces are almost evenly matched – at least in numbers.

The Jotun are resolute; they will not give ground. Yet they also wish to preserve the town, and so refuse to fight within the walls. In truth, their decision makes sense. The walls are hardly built to repel the advance of an Imperial army, and the palisades and makeshift barricades they have erected are just as sufficient without risking the lives of the thralls they seek to protect, or the hall of the Jarls of Iron Stand.

For their part, the Bloodcloaks and the Green Shield have no interest in seeing Imperial forces destroy Oversgaard or loot its markets. The majority of the fighting takes place in the open, although both sides at various points make use of the ruins scattered around the slopes of the hill. Blood flows. More than three-quarters of all casualties suffered on both sides in the campaign take place in the three days of fighting across the hard-packed earth around the long-fallen Iron Banner.

At night, when it is too dark to see, both sides collect their injured and their dead and pull back to their own lines. The fronts shift back and forth, first one way then another. Each night the Summer Storm light the torches at their improvised fighting pit, and celebrate the victories and mourn the losses. The Red Wind Corsairs light great bonfires, that turn the dark to day on the Imperial lines, and the tireless heralds of Janon bring the night alive with music that banishes exhaustion and all but replaces sleep for those who join their wild dancing.

The Jotun have their own ceremonies; marking the darkest hour of the night with the mournful horns that recognise those who have fallen, and echo with sorrow for those who have fallen into the Howling Abyss.

Then the fighting begins again. The Empire makes early gains, but the Jotun simply refuse to fall back. They don't throw their lives away, but neither do they give up any advantage if there is any way to hold it. As the Winter Solstice dawns, there is a stalemate below Oversgaard. Neither can the Empire take the town, nor can the Jotun defenders conclusively rout them.

Both armies remain camped, staring at each other across frozen ground, torn and broken by days of fighting, as curtains of snow fall heedlessly between them.
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Corsairs and Spears.jpg|caption=We blaze through Iron Strand and we show the Jotun what the honour and passion of the freeborn burns on.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
===Game Information: Skallahn===
While they have been unable to conquer Oversgaard, the Empire has made gains in Skallahn. They are a quarter of the way toward taking the Iron Stand, but the Jotun defenders are holding strong.

The decision of the Bloodcloaks and the Green Shield to Fight with Honour has been obvious to everyone in the territory. The Jotun likewise continue to recognise the tactics of Wintermark, and both offer and accept quarter such that Wintermark casualties are reduced by a tenth.
===Participation: Skallahn===
As with those fighting alongside the [[Burning Falcon]] in [[Things that burn#Participation: Segura|Segura]], any character whose [[military unit]] was assigned to fight alongside the army this downtime may choose to have been impacted by the experience of battling in close proximity to heralds of both [[Eleonaris]] and [[Janon]]. If you possess [[heroic skills#hero|hero points]], you may choose to gain an additional temporary hero point which, once spent, is permanently gone. It will have faded entirely by the end of the Winter Solstice regardless.

===Participation: Imperial Orcs===
Any Imperial Orc character of the Sunstorm sept who travelled to Skallahn with the Summer Storm and challenged themselves in one of the fighting pits may have heard this new ancestral voice. It doesn't matter if you assigned a military unit to assist the Summer Storm, only that you roleplay having accompanied the army and participated in the [[Pit-fights|fighting pit]]. The fighting pit is a spiritual experience for most Imperial Orcs, and it is while blood is pumping and adrenaline is high that the voice is most audible.

The voice feels masculine, and speaks of the kind of things mentioned in the Wind of War text - the importance of finding and protecting a family, of loyalty or fidelity to loved ones, and receiving the same in return. And of absolute commitment to protecting that family and wreaking bloody vengeance on anyone who harms them. The voice is usually quite matter-of-fact, but when it speaks of treachery, betrayal, or traitors it burns with a palpable fury that may cause an orc to lose their temper and lash out at someone who has wronged them.

This voice may also be "contagious". Any character who enters the fighting pit during an event and tests themselves against an orc who heard the voice during the Skallahn campaign may come to hear it themselves, provided that before entering the fighting pit they consume a dose of one of the [[Unshackled_Gift|Unshackled Gift]] potions, or are experience an effect that explicitly says it is easier to hear ancestors while under it.

There's no indication ''who'' this voice is, but everyone who has heard it and discussed it with another orc who has had similar experiences agrees it is the same voice. An ancestral voice, loud and clear, heard in the pit beneath the skies of Skallahn, shared among members of the Sunstorm sept.
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ill Tidings.jpg|caption=The news from [[Kahraman]] is not good; the Lasambrian Jotun appear to still be focused on conquering the western [[the Brass Coast|Brass Coast]]|align=left|width=600}}</div>

==Hill==
“Rich folk need big dogs,” so the truism goes north of the border. The Mournish are dour people, who find the cloud in every silver lining. Kahraman has never been richer! The [[Kahraman#Strategic_Considerations|passes]] of the north-west are [[Shallows_and_miseries#Redgate_Pass_.28Battle.29|sealed by rock]] and [[Liathaven#Liath's_Heart|baleful forest]]. The mountain above what was once Redgate Pass shines with the smelting fires, work underway to [[Construct the Red Depths|work begun]] to bring forth the bounty of the mountain's heart. Across the arid grasslands and the red hills the hammers of industry fill potholes, lay flags and cobbles, [[Rebuild_Roads_of_Kahraman|restoring life to tired old roads]]. Allies help ensure that the prosperity of the Freeborn will be protected from the jealous grasping hands of less happier lands. All is well.

But perhaps the Mournish have a point. Because no matter how you slice it, Kahraman has barely known six months of peace in the last ten years. The Jotun covet its wealth; the Lasambrian Jotun seek to build a kingdom there. Those defences are needed, but in the absence of Fort Braydon, the dhomiros of the cinnabar hills wonder who will stand between them and the next attempt at conquest from the west?

One answer might be Imperial magicians of course. The mountains are ideal for the placement of those [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae|icy keeps]] borrowed from the realm of the [[Cathan Canae|Mistress of Blizzards]]. Two rise in the days following the Autumn Equinox, above [[Kahraman#Serra Briante|Serra Briante]] and [[Kahraman#Serra Damata|Serra Damata]]. A “joke” spreads from wayhouse to parador to labour camp in the following weeks that perhaps the Imperial Conclave should just make them both permanent enchantments and have done. Few actual magicians laugh at the joke; they have an idea of what that might cost.

Two magical citadels, against three armies. As reliable as the tides and the moon and the winds in winter, the Lasambrian Jotun invade Kahraman barely a fortnight after the Equinox. The Hierro, the Corazon, the Escuta. Fifteen thousand orcs or more. They cannot, of course, directly attack the wealth of the mountains; the passes are closed to them. Rather they come again to [[Kahraman#Gambit|Gambit]], through the sparse [[beggar's lye|beggarwoods]]. With axe and hammer they make their camps and send their warbands north to test the defences and east to harry the people of the [[Kahraman#Jade Range|Jade Range]].

The magical citadels give them pause, but their scouts nonetheless test the will of the lion-headed ogres that garrison the fort in the foothills above [[Kahraman#Serra_Damata|Damata]]. They are turned back, but they measure the extent both of the heralds' willingness to pursue them and that of the families to fight them. They encounter significantly less resistance in Gambit; again village, estate, and parador fall to them. Again people receive the Choice – stay and serve and keep your wealth or flee and leave all save your clothes and food for the road behind.

The Corazon, as they always do, range ahead of the other two armies stealing and looting. One champion jokes to the Freeborn she is robbing that they are become farmers, harvesting wealth from the fields of Kahraman as the seasons ebb and flow. Nobody laughs.

The [[Time and time again|kamkrag]] are meant to protect against the endless greed of the Corazon... but they are not finished. Those watch-towers and barracks that are complete provide defences to the scattered Freeborn soldiers who try, futilely, to hold back the orcs sweeping east through the grasslands, but there are still works of work to be completed before they offer any protection. The Corazon do not waste their time trying to destroy the finished structures, but they joyfully plunder work-gangs, caravans, and labour-camps wherever they encounter them. Stone, tools, supplies – all are stolen away to feed the hunger of the Lasambrian raiders.

Behind the Corazon come the Hierro and the Escuta. They are more cautious, perhaps more keenly aware of the changes that have taken place in Kahraman since they were last here. Cautious, but not cowardly. Methodically they secure the land around them, and while their main attention is in the west they are not shy about sending soldiers out into the rest of the territory. A handful reach as far as [[Kahraman#Braydon's Jasse|Braydon's Jasse]], and pay their respects at the burial mound that covers the ruins of Fort Braydon.

While they do not go out of their way to kill those who do not resist, work on both the restoration of the roads, and on the Red Depths is horribly disrupted by the presence of the orc bandits. As the Winter Solstice nears, work on the great projects commisioned by the Senate has ground to a complete halt. While they do not threaten the building site for the Red Depths directly, they are able to at least partially sever the trade routes transporting the vital materials. In the west, the Lasambrians and are well on their way to the complete conquest of Gambit.
===Game Information: Kahraman===
The presence of the Lasambrian armies, especially the raids of the Corazon, have significantly delayed work on both the [[Construct the Red Depths|Red Depths]] and the [[Rebuild Roads of Kahraman|road restoration]]. Thanks to the Senate decision to make the Red Depths a Freeborn national seat, the dhomiro who live in the cinnabar hills are (grumblingly) prepared to make up the shortfall in tools and materials caused by the Lasambrian raids, but this will take time. As such, assuming nothing else changes, work on the Red Depths will now not be completed until the start of the Spring Equinox – assuming the Lasambrians do not do anything further to disrupt it.

The work on restoring the roads, however, has been more seriously hit. The Lasambrians have seized around 10 wains of white granite, and stripped several work-teams of their tools and mundane materials. The white granite will need to be replaced. Worse, the work on the territory-wide project cannot progress while the Lasambrians are rampaging across half of Kahraman. Indeed, if they capture any regions it won't be possible to complete the project until they are removed.

Thanks to the presence of the magical citadels in the mountains, the orcs are just over three-fifths of the way toward conquering the region of Gambit.

==Storm Clouds and Stone (Conjunctions)==
Three opportunities for the heroes of Anvil to use the [[Sentinel Gate]] to face the Jotun have been identified as the Winter Solstice draws closer. For the moment they are little more than teasers, but more information will be provided before the summit.
===The Falcon (Kahraman)===
* '''A warband of Jotun have captured Erdene Bataguin, a respected Faraden builder-architect supporting the road-restoration project in Kahraman'''
* '''Time TBC'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Azure Sutannir'' is responsible for rescuing the Faraden architect'''
While the Lasambrians are primarily interested in conquest and lighting raids, they are not the only western orcs in Kahraman. Several warbands of “true” Jotun accompany them, and it is one of these bands that intercepts a retreating caravan in Braydon's Jasse. Primarily made up of Faraden of the Bataguin family who had been visiting the [[Azure Sutannir#Azure Chorus|Azure Chorus]], the orcs quickly overwhelmed the guards, and offered the Choice.

Some of the Freeborn and Faraden managed to reach the relative safety of the Azure Chorus (the Jotun do not go out of their way to attack sites of spiritual importance). Unfortunately one of those taken as a thrall by the orcs was a Bataguin builder-architect, the well-respected Erdene Bataguin. They accepted the choice of being a thrall, rather than slain, and are accompanied the Jotun as they began their journey back towards the border with Reinos. As the [[Azure Sutannir]] is responsible for protecting those who visit the temple, they are ultimately responsible for rescuing the Faraden architect.

The Bataguin have already delivered the building supplies and funds supporting the road-building project, but if they are carried away by the Jotun this would represent a serious diplomatic incident with the Faraden. The [[Ambassador to Faraden]] in particular might wish to ensure this does not happen. Assuming Erdene can be returned safely to their family, the Bataguin will feel an obligation to offer thanks to the Azure Sutannir. They are not only wealthy, but well-respected in Faraden for their building prowess.

===Wolf Dreams (Skallahn)===
* '''Jarl Ebbe of Overgaard has called on the fyrd of Iron Stand'''
* '''Time TBC'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Imperial Seer'' is responsible for stopping the Jarl of Greenwall'''
As the Imperial armies advance into Iron Stand, the Jarl ''Ebbe of Overgaard'', sends out another call to arms. Jarl Ebbe calls on the Jotun of the region who owe them fealty to rise up against the warriors of the Empire and come together to form a fyrd. If the fyrd is raised, it will support the Jotun armies in their defence of Skallahn. ''Delphysius the Polemarch of Strategy'', a herald of [[Zakalwe]] accompanying the [[Bloodcloaks]] on campaign, has determined where Jarl Ebbe will be during the summit. Partly in response to the request of the [[Archmage of Day]] has made of their master, they have presented a plan to deal with the Jarl before the fyrd has fully gathered. A decapitation strike will rob the Iron Stand of its leader at a crucial moment and throw the defenders into disarray.

Delphysius has requested that the [[Imperial Seer]] - who they believe to be a citizen of Wintermark - take the lead on this strategic strike. The Polemarch suggests that the Seer liaise with the people of Wintermark, but also with the Freeborn, Imperial Orcs, and Marchers, all of whose soldiers are involved in fighting in the territory, and see what aid they are prepared to provide to the attack.

If the Jarl is dealt with, no fyrd will form in Iron Stand for at least the next year. Ebbe's successor will need to wrestle with the shadow of dishonour that will hang over the warriors of the region, for letting their Jarl be slain. If they're not dealt with, the fyrd will be raised and in response to the recent invasions and raids from the Empire, will attract significantly more champions that it might have otherwise - the resulting fyrd will be twice the normal strength and may see Jarl Ebbe become a champion of the Jotun in their own right (meaning that if the Jotun defend Skallahn, they may continue to fight the Empire in other territories). Regardless, ''Agon, Polemarch of Clarity'' - a respected lieutenant of Zakalwe in their own right - has expressed a keen interest in discussing the outcome of the skirmish with the Seer during the Spring Equinox.

<box><big>'''Fyrds'''</big><br>
Each region in a Jotun territory generates a fyrd when it is conquered by the Empire. As the Jarl and their warriors are forced to retreat from their lands, they form up into a fyrd, a warband with a military strength of five hundred. A fyrd is unable to act independently of fortifications or armies in the territory; it will only act to support a Jotun army in the territory or a fortification if there are no armies present..

A region's fyrd can be dismantled by killing the jarl or through other opportunities.</box>

===Threads in the Pattern (Liathaven)===
* '''A warband of Jotun are on their way to slaughter a Feni enclave'''
* '''Time TBC'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Imperial Advisor for the Feni'' is responsible for stopping the Jotun'''
The strange creature - described as having the mask of a jackdaw and a cloak of feathers - that was first spotted near the Old Pig in [[Mournwold#Freemoor|Freemoor]] startled the poor beaters. First heralds of [[Siakha|the Mother of Wrecks]] in Mitwold, then ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun]] in Bregasland, now whatever "this thing" is? "This thing" turned out to be ''Halka'', a herald of [[Wise Rangara|the Ancient One]], with a request for those that are willing to "right a wrong".

It seems a warband of Jotun belonging to an ambitious young would-be champion named ''Urse Longarm'' are moving to assault a small community of [[Feni]] in the depths of Liathaven. The Feni settlement lies within a [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|chamber]] of the Eldest, but somehow Urse has discovered its location and more importantly the location of the wards that deny access to trespassers. Those same Feni have spent the last year or so raiding Jotun encampments and the orcs are out for vengeance. As far as the Black Crow can determine however, Urse has not shared their information with the rest of their people, hoping to gain status and respect by dealing with the threat alone. If the Jotun are able to destroy the wards then the settlement will be exposed and the orcs will be free to take their reprisals against the residents. Wise Rangara either cannot, or will not, aid the Feni directly. Rather, she wants the people of the Marches to do so.

If the Marchers are prepared to stop these Jotun then Grandmother Winter will consider them to have atoned for their role in [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Rattle_of_the_Bones|the killings of the Feni of Alderly]]. Specifically, Halka suggests that if the [[Imperial Advisor for the Feni]] really wants to make amends for destroying a community that had lived quietly in the woods for a thousand years, and for driving many of their warriors into the arms of [[Agramant|That Bastard Agramant]], they should take the lead on dealing with the Jotun. Given this is a direct request to the Imperial Advisor for the Feni it is their responsibility to stop Urse Longarm and the rest of the Jotun.

Watcher of Ratibor's Torch

2024-02-27T19:38:53Z

RichardRaynor: added TOC

<div style="float:right; width: 350; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ratibor-FINAL-logoless.png|title=The torches of Ratibor's Gate are rumoured to burn eternal|width=350}}</div>
==Overview==
The Watcher of Ratibor's Torch is an Imperial title [[Construct Ratibor's Gate Shrine|created]] by the [[Imperial Senate]] during the Summer Solstice 384YE following a [[The_lights_of_Temeschwar#The_Thousand_Torches|proposal]] put forward by ''Beagan Locular di Temeschwar''.

==Responsibilities==
The Watcher of Ratibor's Torch oversees Ratibor's Gate in [[Temeschwar]]. The Watcher is expected to oversee the tending of the flame and give regular sermons to the congregation that the tomb draws. In respect to the building’s history as a prison, they are expected to provide counsel to citizens that may find themselves afoul of Imperial Law and to the victims of crime, and to provide clemency defences for virtuous criminals. They are also expected to act as a point of contact for citizens interested in the history of Ratibor, the founding of Temeschwar, and associated subjects. If Ratibor's Gate were to be threatened, it would be the responsibility of the Watcher to face those threats; likewise should any [[opportunity]] related to the Gate arise the Watcher would decide how to respond.

==Powers==
===Bounty of Liao===
The sinecure provides ten measures of [[liao]] to the Watcher each season, to be used as they see fit.
===Voice in the Synod===
The Watcher receives twenty votes in the [[Imperial Synod]]. They may use these votes in any appropriate assembly, following the [[Sinecure#Synod_Votes|normal rules for votes provided by a Sinecure]].

==Appointment==
The Watcher is a [[the League|League]] national title [[Appointment|appointed]] by [[judgement]] of the League [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|national assembly]].

The Watcher is appointed during the Autumn Equinox each year. They can be revoked by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the League National Assembly, and the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].

==Ratibor's Gate==
The entrance to the old prison now bears a red plaque that reads “commissioned, built, and paid for by the Crimson Reaper Cartel, the Sea Wolf Mercenary Company, and Estella “the Wanderer” Krazentia Callabrese von Temeschwar in 384YE, we invite all who have Ambition to seek inspiration from Boyar Ratibor’s example here”. The plaque bears the symbols of the Cartas and individuals that contributed: the stylised wolf head of the Sea Wolves; the Skulls of the Crimson Reapers; and the constellation of the Wanderer.

The two towers that flank the prison’s barbican are embossed with great white granite torches that are brightly lit at night with red glow-stones. [[Technology#Lightstones|Lightstones]] imported from the mountains of Karov cause the lights to flicker like heatless flames, causing the stones to seemingly flicker and cast stark shadows that dance across the prisons’ walls.

The old prison courtyard, commonly referred to as the "''Court of Enduring Flame''" since the [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_37|Spring Eqinox 385YE]], has been covered with a vaulted roof to create a sheltered nave. On the old courtyard walls there are murals of key moments in the history of Temeschwar and Ratibor’s life in which he experienced the perfidy of the Vyig. At the centre of the nave is a great red brazier, tended by those who visit the tomb, and visitors are encouraged to stand before it and loudly declare their ambitions to those assembled. Behind the brazier is a great mural of Ratibor surrounded by the frostbitten bodies of the Vyig that died during the night of a thousand torches.

Many of the old prison cells, once civil servant’s offices, have been converted back to facsimiles of cells that contain facts about life in the old prison. For a small fee, visitors can spend a little time in a cell to meditate on their ambitions and bask in the aura of the tomb.

{{RecentElections|Watcher_of_Ratibor%27s_Torch}}
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:The League]]

Reeve of Greenforest Fair

2024-02-27T19:38:25Z

RichardRaynor: added TOC

==Overview==
The Greenwood Manor was [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Greenwood_Manor|commissioned]] by Bertrand of Dawn as [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]] during the Summer Solstice 384YE. The Greenforest Market is located in Racqueen, [[Semmerholm#Elvette|Elvette]] and work was completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 384YE.

==Responsibilities==
The Reeve of Greenforest Fair is responsible for overseeing the monthly fair at the Greenforest Market. The Reeve is expected to ensure that the yeofolk who trade at the fair do so in an honest manner.

==Powers==
===Ministry===
<div style="width: 600px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Wealth of the Fair'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>9 Crowns</td><td>3 measures each of [[beggar's lye]], [[ambergelt]], [[dragonbone]], and [[iridescent gloaming]] and 5 random [[herb|herbs]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 Crowns</td><td>6 measures each of beggar's lye, ambergelt, dragonbone, and iridescent gloaming and 10 random herbs</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 Crowns</td><td>9 measures each of beggar's lye, ambergelt, dragonbone, and iridescent gloaming, 10 random herbs, and 2 vials of [[Vis#Vital_Honey|vital honey]]</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
As a [[ministry]], the title of Reeve of Greenforest Fair allows the holder to purchase measures at a set price. The Reeve spends their money and makes their choices during downtime from their character page. Money is removed from, and resources are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Suitability'''</big><br>The Reeve of the Greenforest Fair is intended to be held by a [[Yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]], the task of haggling over coins and measures is unsuitable for a noble. If the title is held by a character who is a noble, or they become one during their tenure, then the player must email admin@profounddecisions.co.uk to let us know to turn off production of the ministry.</box></div>

==Appointment==
This title is appointed during the Autumn Equinox. The Reeve of Greenforest Fair is a national position appointed by the Synod. It is elected by [[judgement]] of the Dawnish [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|Assembly]].

The title can be held by any Dawnish citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Dawn National Assembly, and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{Responsibilities Expectation}}
{{RecentElections|Reeve_of_Greenforest_Fair}}
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:Dawn]]
[[Category:Synod]]

Knight of the Greenwood

2024-02-27T19:37:59Z

RichardRaynor: added TOC

==Overview==
The Knight of the Greenwood is an [[Imperial title]] awarded to a citizen of [[Dawn]]. The Greenwood Manor was [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Greenwood_Manor|commissioned]] by Bertrand of Dawn as [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]] during the Summer Solstice 384YE, with work being completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 384YE.
==Responsibilities==
The Knight of the Greenwood is responsible for organising Dawnish knights to quest against the [[vallorn]] and support actions to cleanse its taint from the Empire; they are expected to support the creation of [[Knightly order|knightly orders]] dedicated to this task.
==Powers==
===Treasures from the Quest===
The sinecure provides six measures of [[Materials#Natural_Materials|natural materials]], and nine drams of [[herb|herbs]] each season claimed from questing against the vallorn or given as gifts by those resting at [[#Greenwood Manor|Greenwood Manor]].
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Suitability'''</big><br>The Knight of the Greenwood is intended to be held by a noble: the task of organising knights against the vallorn is unsuitable for a yeofolk. If the title is held by a character who is a yeofolk, or they somehow become one during their tenure, then the player must email admin@profounddecisions.co.uk to let us know.</box></div>
==Appointment==
This title is appointed during the Autumn Equinox. The Knight of the Greenwood is a national position appointed by the Synod. It is elected by [[judgement]] of the Dawnish [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|Assembly]].

The title can be held by any Dawnish citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Dawn National Assembly, and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].

{{Responsibilities Expectation}}
{{RecentElections|Knight_of_the_Greenwood}}
==Further Reading==
* [[Between_wind_and_water#The_Manor_of_the_Greenwood|Between wind and water]] - Winter 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing the opportunity to build Greenwood Manor
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:Dawn]]
[[Category:Synod]]

Hand of Guerra

2024-02-27T19:37:07Z

RichardRaynor: added TOC

==Overview==
The [[Construct_House_of_Guerra|motion]] to construct the House of Guerra was raised by the Senator of [[Madruga]] during the Summer Solstice 383YE. The House of Guerra is built near to the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary of Zemress]] in [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]], Madruga and work was completed shortly before the Winter Solstice 383YE.

==Responsibilities==
The Hand of Guerra is responsible for helping refugees adjust to new lives in the Empire, as well as for spreading the philosophy of [[Guerra]] to the Empire - and indeed the world.
==Powers==
===Sincure===
As a [[sinecure]], the title of Hand of Guerra receives 12 liao each season, to help them minister to the needs of those who attend the House.

==Appointment==
This title is appointed during the Winter Solstice. The Hand of Guerra is a national position appointed by the Synod. It is elected by [[judgement]] of the Freeborn [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|Assembly]]. .

The title can be held by any Freeborn citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Brass Coast National Assembly, and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
==House of Guerra==
The opportunity to [[What_will_be,_was_not#There_is_Pride_in_Sanctuary|create the House of Guerra]] arose during Spring 383YE, partially in response to a [[statement of principle]] by Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra. In the statement they urged the people of the Brass Coast to take Pride in the ties that bind them together, to support those who find themselves in need of family. It was imagined as a sanctuary specifically designed to serve as a base of operations for Imperial citizens dedicated to offering assistance to those seeking a new home in the Empire. The recent [[Lost_in_translation|difficulties faced by newcomers to the Empire]] perhaps made its value all too clear.

The house itself takes the form of a hostel built near the [[Zemress#The Seminary of Zemress|Seminary of Zemress]] in [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. A small staff supports the Hand, keeping the place ready for use by refugees and those seeking sanctuary in the Empire. Their numbers are regularly supplemented by priests and pilgrims who attend the Seminary - especially those of [[Zemress islander|Zemress island]] descent - who voluntarily donate a portion of their time to helping newcomers to the Brass Coast to build prosperous new lives for themselves.
{{RecentElections|Hand_of_Guerra}}
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:The Brass Coast]]
[[Category:Synod]]

Reeve of Boar's Market

2024-02-27T19:33:25Z

RichardRaynor: added TOC

==Overview==
The Reeve of Boar's Market is an [[Imperial title]] awarded to a citizen of [[Dawn]]. The Boar's Hollow Market-fayre was [[Construct_Boar%27s_Market|commissioned]] by the Imperial Senate during the Autumn Equinox 384YE following a [[Good_old_smooth_red_wine#Boar.27s_Market|opportunity]] created by the [[Prosperity|Prosperous]] citizens of the Empire.

==Responsibilities==
The Reeve of Boar's Market is responsible for working with the seneschals and retainers of Dawn's noble houses, and working to ensure the prosperity of the nation by helping them to get their hands on [[weirwood]], [[white granite]], [[mithril]], and even [[ilium]]. If the market-fayre were to be threatened, it would be the responsibility of the Reeve to face those threats; likewise should any [[opportunity]] related to the market-fayre arise they would decide how to respond.

<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''White Granite'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>45 crowns</td><td>2 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>100 crowns</td><td>4 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>165 crowns</td><td>6 wains of white granite</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Mithril'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>46 crowns</td><td>2 wains of mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>102 crowns</td><td>4 wains of mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>170 crowns</td><td>6 wains of mithril</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>40 crowns</td><td>2 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>90 crowns</td><td>4 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>150 crowns</td><td>6 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>220 crowns</td><td>8 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>300 crowns</td><td>10 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
</table></div>
==Powers==
===Ministry===
As a [[ministry]], the title of Reeve of Boar's Market allows the holder to purchase quantities of special materials at a set price. The Reeve makes their decision on how much to spend during downtime from their character page. Resources are removed from, and resources are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.

Unlike a standard ministry, the Reeve of Boar's Market deals with a number of different groups of traders from across the [[Northern trade network]] . As such, the Reeve has not one but ''three'' streams from which they can purchase material. The Reeve can spend differing amounts on each stream - for example, they could spend 40 crowns on 2 wains of weirwood, 102 crowns on 4 wains of mithril, and 165 crowns on 6 wains of white granite.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Suitability'''</big><br>The Reeve of the Boar's Market is intended to be held by a [[Yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]], the task of haggling over coins and wains is unsuitable for a noble. If the title is held by a character who is a noble, or they become one during their tenure, then the player must email admin@profounddecisions.co.uk to let us reduce the production of the ministry.</box></div>
==Appointment==
This title is appointed during the Winter Solstice. The Reeve of Boar's Market is appointed by citizens of Dawn who control a [[military unit]] [[Resource|personal resource]]. The larger the military unit an individual has the more votes they can allocate in support to a candidate. The voting is handled by the civil servants in the Bourse.

Only a Dawnish citizen may hold the title. They do not receive a seat on the Bourse. As a title appointed through the Bourse they cannot be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Imperial Synod]].

{{RecentElections|Reeve_of_Boar%27s_Market}}
{{Responsibilities Expectation}}
[[Category:Dawn]][[Category:Bourse]][[Category:Title]]

Tender of the Blood Orchard

2024-02-27T19:23:05Z

RichardRaynor: added TOC

==Overview==
The Tender of the Blood Orchard is an [[Imperial title]] awarded to a citizen of [[The League|the League]]. The Wunderkind Woods were [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Secure_Wunderkind_Woods|secured]], and renamed the Blood Orchard, by the Imperial Senate during the Autumn Equinox 384YE.

==Responsibilities==
The Tender of the Blood Orchard is responsible for liaising with the Rebeshi Players, protecting the Blood Orchard, and protecting the people of Holmauer ''from'' the Blood Orchard should that become necessary.

==Powers==
===Exploit the Warped Wood===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Blood Red Blood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>105 rings</td><td>3 Winter vis</td></tr>
<tr><td>255 rings</td><td>6 Winter vis</td></tr>
<tr><td>450 rings</td><td>9 Winter vis</td></tr>
<tr><td>690 rings</td><td>12 Winter vis</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Warped Wooden Staffs'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>720 rings</td><td>1 [[Phlegmatic Staff]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>1440 rings</td><td>2 Phlegmatic Staffs</td></tr>
</table></div>
As a [[ministry]], the title of Tender of the Blood Orchard allows the holder to purchase [[Vis#Heart.27s_Blood|winter vis]] and [[Phlegmatic Staff|Phlegmatic Staffs]] at a set price. The Tender makes their decision about how much money to spend during downtime from their character page. Money is removed from, and resources are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.

==Appointment==
This title is appointed during the Winter Solstice. The Tender of the Blood Orchard is selected by unanimous decision of the [[the League]] [[senator|senators]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Imperial Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by any League citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the League [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]], and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].

==Blood Orchard==
The trees of the Blood Orchard are twisted unholy things, their naked branches grasping toward the sky like grasping claws. Each tree has a single hollow from which oozes a sweet smelling, sticky, bright red sap. Those brave enough to venture into the woods have reported sightings of half eaten small animals in the roots of many of the trees, but no sign of any predators - although odd blue-white lights are sometimes seen bobbing among the trees on nights when the sky is particularly clear.

Shortly after the [[In_the_garden_of_defiance|curse]] of the [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Skathe|Hag Queen]], the sap was sold to visiting tourists by a [[mountebank]] as the blood of [[Empress Lisabetta]]. The sap, nicknamed ''blood red blood'' by the imaginative folk of Holberg's streets, was discovered to be poisonous if consumed but when prepared appropriately serves as a form of winter vis.

{{RecentElections|Tender_of_the_Blood_Orchard}}
{{Responsibilities Expectation}}
==Further Reading==
* [[In_the_garden_of_defiance#An_Orchard_of_Blood|In the garden of defiance]] - Autumn 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing the changes in the Wunderkind Woods
* [[Dear_green_space#Blood_Orchard|Dear green space]] - Autumn 384YE Wind of Fortune with Sofia Rebeshi van Holmauer's offer of support

[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:The League]]

Polemarch of Highwatch

2024-02-27T19:22:34Z

RichardRaynor: added TOC

==Overview==
The Polemarch of Highwatch is an [[Imperial title]] appointed by the [[Imperial Senate|Senate]], created in [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Highwatch_Citadel|Summer 384YE]]. It grants custodianship of the sinecure known as [[#Highwatch Citadel|Highwatch Citadel]], an historical site located in [[Morrow#Altis|Altis]], [[Morrow]], after the sentinels there arranged an accord with the Eternal [[Zakalwe]].

==Responsibilities==
The Polemarch has no particular responsibilities, they simply receive an income of useful items from the heralds of Zakalwe. If Highwatch Citadel were ever to come under threat, it would be the responsibility of the Polemarch to deal with this threat.
==Powers==
===Infusions of Day===
Each season the Polemarch receives 3 doses of [[Effulgent Primessence]], provided by the heralds of Zakalwe. These potions can be used by practitioners of [[Day magic]] to enhance their ability to perform rituals.

These potions are not produced in the Citadel, they are provided by the heralds of Zakalwe. If relations with the Master Strategist were to decline severely, these heralds would depart and the Polemarch would no longer receive their income.

===Pearls of Manush===
Each season, the General of Day provides the Polemarch with a single ''Pearl of Manush''.

Each Pearl is taken from a cove in the Day realm, where all manner of exotic shells are found. The waters of Manush are clotted with thoughts that drift on the whispering tides. Sometimes one of these thoughts will be caught inside the flesh of one of the great clams that dwells there and as the years go by the idea is coated with ever more layers of mother of pearl. A powerful Day magician can drain the power of a pearl of Manush by invoking it while performing the ritual [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]]. The pearl provides up to five additional ranks of Day lore for the magician using it, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks|normal rules for effective skill]]. It also counts as up to ten mana crystals used by the magician that invokes the Pearl. Once used the pearl's power is spent.

As part of the agreement with Zakalwe, these Pearls are only to be used in the Empire's war against the [[Druj]]. If a Pearl was ever used to enchant an army facing the [[Jotun]] or any other enemy, the heralds resident in the Citadel would abandon their chambers and no further Pearls would be forthcoming. Similarly, if Zakalwe were to be the subject of [[Amity_and_enmity#Declaration_of_Enmity|enmity]], the heralds would be forced to return to the realm of Day.

==Appointment==
The Polemarch of Highwatch is appointed during the Autumn Equinox each year. It is chosen by unanimous decision of the [[Urizen]] [[senator|senators]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Imperial Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by any Urizen citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Urizen [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]], and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].

==Highwatch Citadel==
Highwatch Citadel is hundreds of years old; the [[Spire#Citadels|citadel]] is where the Urizen met [[Emperor Giovanni|Giovanni the Peacemaker]] to negotiate their incorporation into the Empire. The citadel dominates one of the tallest peaks of [[Morrow#Altis|Altis]] and the pattern of [[trod|trods]] in [[Therunin#Peakedge_Song|Peakedge Song]] are visible on the clearest of days. Following the expansion commissioned by the Imperial Senate there are now a number of heralds of the Master Strategist who spend their time debating matters of strategy and warfare with those visitors.

{{RecentElections|Polemarch_of_Highwatch}}
==Further Reading==
*[[The Net of the Realms]] - Winter 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing the original offer
*[[Zakalwe]]
[[Category:Senate]]
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:Urizen]]

Keeper of the Sapphire Stair

2024-02-27T19:06:41Z

RichardRaynor: removed partial link

==Overview==
The ''Keeper of the Sapphire Stair'' is an [[Imperial title]] awared to a [[The League|League]] citizen. It is a National position, appointed by unanimous decision of the League [[Senator|senators]].

Associated with the [[Tassato#The_Sapphire_Stair|Sapphire Stair]] in [[Tassato]], the keeper is paid a portion of each toll paid for use of the lock. The majority of the monies raised goes to the maintenance and operation of the marvellous locks, but the keeper is assigned enough to ensure a comfortable lifestyle. Perhaps more importantly, this [[sinecure]] also brings with it a certain amount of influence in the politics of the city itself due to the influence it grants the holder over trade along the Vassa. As such, control of the sinecure is hotly contested by guilds on both sides of the river and on the irregular occasions when the sinecure must be re-appointed, competition to influence the League senators is extremely fierce.

The Keeper is ''almost always'' from Tassato. While there have been incidents where League citizens from other cities have been appointed to the position they have rarely found their tenure to be very satisfying. They either moved to Tassato and became involved in the politics of the city, or they found themselves shunned, villified, harassed and on one very unfortunate occasion during the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], murdered for their temerity in involving themselves directly in a Tassatan matter.

The previous Keeper of the Sapphire Stair was Rebeca Porteiro di Tassato, a [[naga]] member of the Gilt Moth ''camorra'' - a wealthy [[guild]] from northern [[Tassato#Madeiras|Madeiras]] known for, among other things, trade in fine cloth, dark ale and [[Navarr]] goods. Exiled from the city proper nearly two centuries ago following some scandal or other, the guild stays neutral in political affairs. Rebeca herself is known to be a rake, a [[bravo]], and a hellraiser, and has a reputation for daring amorous adventures and remarkable skill with the sword. Rumour suggests that she was appointed to the position in 366YE following the successful seduction of all three League senators.

During Winter 379YE, Rebecca Porteiro di Tassato suffered a fatal injury, and the title passed to Domitila Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato (after some unfortunate misunderstandings around which of the two beautiful Rezia sisters had been appointed to the position). Following this new appointment there has been an increase in argument and political maneuvering between those associated with the 'Stair - including some calls for increased political representation of the lockworkers' guilds.

After the Spring Equinox 385YE, a [[Jotun]] champion ''Eisa Winterborn'' [[Shallows_and_miseries#Meanwhile_in_Tassato|led a force into Tassato]] to raid Cevia, and to destroy the Sapphire Stair. The locks were all but ruined in the raid. The Keeper no longer receives tolls from merchants using the locks, and will not receive any until the locks are replaced. Doing so is ''relatively'' straightforward; the project is a [[sinecure]] requiring 10 wains each of white granite, weirwood, and mithril, 60 crowns in labour, and taking three months to complete.

The Red Rock was also damaged, but can be dealt with by the Keeper [[#The_Red_Rock|as part of their normal duties]]; even though the stairs are gone, they do not automatically lose their title and would resume custodianship if the locks were replaced.

==Responsibilities==
The title holder is expected to ensure that the Sapphire Stair remains open and in a state of good repair. The actual job of operating the lock falls to civil servants and local labourers, mostly domiciled in the fortified village of [[Tassato#Cascatas|Cevia]]. While the title comes with a comfortable house on the banks of the Vassa, few Keepers actually spend much time there preferring the entertainments of the city of Tassato.

==Powers==
===Comfortable Income===
As a sinecure, the Keeper of the Sapphire Stair provided an income drawn from the tolls paid by merchants using the lock. With the locks ruined, this income is no longer forthcoming.

The holder of the sinecure receives 20 Crowns in income each season.
===The Red Rock===
The Keeper of the Sapphire stair is responsible for the [[#The Red Rock Mural|mural]] that covers the Red Rock - a naturally occurring flat area of stone that rests in the hills above the lock and is visible to travellers passing along the river. They may change the mural if they wish - provided they are prepared to pay the money to employ a team of artists. Altering or replacing the Red Rock Mural costs 5 Thrones.

To use this power, the Keeper should ensure they have 5 Thrones in their inventory, and e-mail [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot] with the description of their new mural between events. The text should be no more than 200 words, and may be edited before being published on the wiki.

==Appointment==
The Keeper of the Sapphire Stair is appointed by unanimous decision of the [[senator|senators]] of [[the League]]. If a unanimous decision cannot be reached, the title [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#National_Position|may be appointed]] by the [[Imperial Senate]] instead.

The title can be held by a citizen of the League. The Keeper has [[tenure]], and serves until they die or step down. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the League [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|National Assembly]], and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].

==The Red Rock Mural==
The ''Red Rock'' is a large, flat naturally occurring rock surface that stands above the Sapphire Stair and is visible to boats traveling up or down the river. Following an escalating "war of pictures" between several bands of [[bravo|bravos]] in Winter 382YE, Domitila Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato of the Gilded Horn Carta stepped in to take charge of the rock and its images. The beautiful mural of Anabella di Regario and Aldones di Sarvos toasting one another lasted until the Jotun attack in 385YE. Now the rock has been defaced ; it is gouged and daubed with white and red paint, and in place of the inspirational art, there is a crude depiction of a walrus and the [[Tykonus|Rune of Victory]].


{{RecentElections|Keeper_of_the_Sapphire_Stair}}
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:The League]]

Madruga

2023-11-28T10:15:22Z

RichardRaynor: Sp

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofMadruga.png|title=Madruga of the Jewelled Isles, home to merchantmen and corsairs and fluttering multicoloured sails|caption=Regions of Madruga|align=left|width=600}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]]
== Overview ==
Madruga of the Jewelled Isles is the easternmost territory of the Brass Coast, running from the [[Kahraman]] mountains down to the Bay of Catazar. Down the coast of Madruga and [[Feroz]] the [[corsair|corsairs]] and merchants raise their sails, running goods to [[Bastion]] and [[Sarvos]], trading with foreign powers, and fighting off barbarian incursions.<br><br>It is the most densely settled of the Freeborn territories; the nation began here, with the landing of the three sisters and their families at old [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]]. Over generations, their descendants spread across the mainland building and cultivating, until Madruga was tamed. Today, it is scattered with villages and small towns - the sprawling city [[#Siroc|Siroc]] even rivals the cities of [[the League]] in size and wealth.<br><br>It is the spiritual home of the [[Corsair|corsairs]]; many maritime families have lived on the islands of [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] and [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]] since the earliest days of the Freeborn nation.<br><br>Madruga has not always been peaceful, however. The [[Grendel]] have attacked the islands and towns here for centuries; usually their fleets are intercepted at sea before they can do too much damage, but there have been times when their raiders have sacked coastal settlements. For a few harrowing months in the years before the foundation of the Empire, the Grendel swept inland here conquering [[#Lightsea|Lightsea]] and the islands, and threatening to burn Siroc. They were turned back after months of vicious fighting, but the memory of their attack is sometimes credited by historians as being a factor in the decision of the Freeborn to join the Empire.

==Recent History==
After the Autumn Equinox 381YE, the [[Grendel]] armada invaded Madruga. They [[381YE Winter Solstice winds of war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the Freeborn Storm]], burnt the [[Madruga#The_Atalaya_Shipyards_.28Ruined.29|Atalaya shipyards]], and brought the Black Thorns to the brink of annihilation. Their forces then moved against [[Madruga#Lightsea|Lightsea]], raided the port of Quzar, and within short order half the coast of Madruga was in their hands.

== Major Features ==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Parador.jpg|caption=The City of A Thousand Sails is home to many fine paradors.|align=right|width=600}}
=== Siroc ===
The Sapphire, the City of a Thousand Sails, is acknowledged as the pre-eminent city of the Freeborn. It lies in Madruga close by the border with Feroz. Brightly coloured tents extend Siroc out far beyond the small cluster of stone buildings that make up the heart of the city. Sails of all shapes and sizes fill the sheltered bay, which is guarded by a series of iron woven nets and chains bought at great expense from the forges of Wintermark. The city is said to have been founded by the [[Guerra]] family shortly after the Freeborn came to the Brass Coast.

Siroc is the site of the '''Glass Parador'''. The [[Mistress of the Glass Parador]] is an [[Imperial title]] appointed each Summer by Freeborn citizens who control [[fleet]] personal resources.
===Trajadoz===
The town of Trajadoz in north-western [[#Torres|Torres]] was founded roughly three hundred years ago by the Trajaduz family of traders who were intent on fostering trade between the mines of newly conquered [[Kahraman]] and the wealth of [[Sarvos]]. The most recent influx of townsfolk was during the invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. Since the reclamation of Segura in 378YE it stood mostly empty, save for a few bandits, as the Freeborn returned to their homes. Following the end of the rebellion in Marracoss and Emphedor Imperial fleet captains had an opportunity to [[Through_my_sails#Evacuation|evacuate some of the defeated rebels]]. Roughly a third of the refugees, offered sanctuary in the Empire, have [[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|taken up residence]] in the mostly abandoned town, and created a community.

The Marracossans (never Nemorians, and rarely accepting Asavean) are a disparate group; made up of priests and soldiers, crafters and traders. One of their number Leonorada Rousseau, [[Asavean_Archipelago#Religion|priest of Aseus]], has spent some time in the paradors of nearby [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos]]. They have made clear that they, and their community, like the Empire, and they like the town of Tradajoz. They wish to remain in the town, but Leonorada understands that the community's intent to continue following and worshipping their gods could lead to some unfortunate accusations. In Winter 384YE, the Imperial Senate [[Cede Trajadoz|ceded control of Trajadoz]] to the Nemorians. This has raised a few concerns among their neighbours as it frees them to build temples to their gods if they wish - and indeed to do anything else they want to do. You can read more about the Marracossans in the '''[[Large_but_far_away#Asavea|Large but far away]]''' wind of fortune.

=== Atalaya ===
The town of Atalaya in [[#Free Landing|Free Landing]] marks the place where the Brass Coast was born; the first landing of the three sisters and their families. Built around the side of a secluded cove, the seas around the island that share its name are a navigational nightmare. Before the Shining Pillar was built, reaching the hidden docks of Atalaya was a feat to tax the most skilled ship's crews. Today, the landwards channel has been widened but is protected by hidden obstructions that only the Freeborn pilots know well. Atalaya is also known for its deep natural harbour - many ships of the Freeborn fleet count Atalaya as their home port.

Atalaya is the oldest Freeborn settlement in the Brass Coast, but its prominence was eclipsed centuries ago by [[#Lightsea|Quzar]]. Today, it is a place of pilgrimage for many Freeborn followers of [[the Way]] - there are a number of shrines and temples dedicated to [[Pride]] and [[Vigilance]] here. The [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel#School of the Sanguine Bloom|School of the Sanguine Bloom]], one of the most prestigious schools dedicated to herb-lore in the Brass Coast also stands here, founded long ago by Sameen i Riqueza, youngest daughter of [[Riqueza]] herself.
===Calvos===
The bustling town of Calvos lies on the shores of [[#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]]. The slopes outside the town are rich with grapes, and the fine wines produced here travel all over the Empire. Even the sommeliers of the [[The League|League]] pay well for a Calvos vintage. The [[Paragons and Exemplars|exemplar]] [[Zemress|Zemress i Ezmara i Erigo]] was born here towards the end of the second century YE, and her ship ''The Kraken's Bane'' is housed at a special dry dock here. The ship, and the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary]] that stands nearby are a destination for many pilgrims of [[Prosperity]] - even those from as far afield as the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Near the seminary stands the [[Hand of Guerra#House of Guerra|House of Guerra]], a place dedicated to supporting refugees to the Empire, especially those who seek a new family among the Freeborn.

=== The Lyceum ===
The Lyceum was established during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] on an island east of Siroc. It is a centre of arcane learning in the Empire, and the [[Dean of the Lyceum]] maintains sumptuous apartments here. Approach to the island is carefully controlled by the magicians and professors, and the most promising magicians are invited to study or teach there.
===The Commonwealth Embassy===
The [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth|Commonwealth Embassy]] is located in [[#Siroc|Siroc]]. It consists of several buildings built after the severe Commonwealth style, which stand in beautifully laid out and maintained gardens, surrounded by a low white granite wall. Despite the severity of the architecture, the embassy is surprisingly welcoming - the gates stand permanently open, albeit under the watchful gaze of a cadre of Commonwealth soldiers attached to the staff of ambassador Mila Eisenfalke. The majority of the staff are human, although there are apparently half-a-dozen orcs whose role on the ambassadorial staff is not clear. There are no daeva citizens working at the embassy as far as Imperial observers can make out.

===Sunset Roads===
{{Anchor|South-West Roads}}With encouragement from the notoriously sea-averse Faraden, a grand highway connects Siroc with Calvos, cutting across the territory rather than following the coast. A shorter road runs along the northern banks of the Scorrero, crossing just north of [[Segura#Cerevado|Cerevado]] in [[Segura]] via a beautiful arched bridge of white granite. While the road is used extensively by the Faraden, it also serves to cut the journey time from the northern borders of Madruga to the trading city of Siroc, making it a popular route for Freeborn and League merchants as well.

The south-west roads are a [[great work]] that complement the already existing [[Lorenzo's Legacy#Blood Red Roads|Blood Red Roads]], bringing increased prosperity to the owners of [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] in Madruga.

===The Salt Guard===
A grand [[fortification]] [[The_same_bed#The_Salt_Guard|designed]] by Menno van Ritsjhof comprised of two stout fortifications on either side of the bay along the approach to Siroc. Each fort is equipped with powerful trebuchet and catapults. A garrison of skilled mariners and corsairs ensures the towers are always ready to respond to any threat, and with the significant reinforcement of the existing iron chains and nets that guard the harbour they are extremely effective against shore offensives. He believes that not only will a sea assault against Siroc be made nigh impossible, but that the garrisons of the two towers would also be in a position to protect the Lyceum which lies to the south-east of Siroc proper.
=== The Spider's Dream ===

An elegant bridge spans the river Vassa here, connecting Trivento to the Brass Coast. It is a marvellous piece of engineering that resembles a spider's web. There is a toll to pay, or you can take the long way around. Unfortunately, time has not been kind to the Spider's Dream. Resources initially used to maintain it were siphoned off in the time of [[Emperor Walter]], and the bridge became increasingly dangerous to cross. In Spring 377YE, however, the [[Imperial Senate]] [[Repair the Spider's Dream|took steps]] to ensure its restoration to full functionality - reinstating the [[Imperial Title]] of [[Spider's Tollkeep]] in the process and heading off potentially unpleasant implications for the people of both [[Sarvos]] and Madruga. In Spring 380YE, [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]] attached to the forces involved in [[the sack of Sarvos]] made an attempt to take advantage of unusually high flooding in the river as part of an attempt to destroy the bridge entirely, cutting the Freeborn territories off from the rest of the Empire. They were stopped by the brave action of Imperial heroes, and the bridge preserved - and along with it the ability for armies to pass from the south-western Empire into Sarvos and Tassato, and vice versa.

{{anchor|The Atalaya Shipyards}}
===The Atalaya Shipyards (Ruined)===
Following a [[Construct_Madruga_shipyard|motion]] at the first [[Imperial Senate]] session in Winter 376YE, work began to expand the docks of Atalaya. Under the guidance of Miroslav, Senator for the [[The League|League]] city of [[Sarvos]], many wains of white granite and weirwood were committed to building both a massive seawall, and a great Imperial shipyard equipped with drydocks, powerful cranes for loading and unloading, and expanded warehouses and work spaces. Completed shortly before Autumn 377YE, the shipyard provided significant benefits to the Freeborn [[fleet|ships]] based in Madruga. In addition, the facilities here proved sufficient to allow the construction of the first [[Imperial navy]] since the days of [[Emperor Barabbas]]; [[Raise_Freeborn_navy|work]] began on constructing Freeborn vessels in Winter 378YE.

It is perhaps fitting that when the [[Grendel]] invaded Madruga after the Autumn Equinox 381YE, and [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#To_Fool_The_Crowd|destroyed the shipyard]] the Freeborn Storm was [[Navy_orders#Put_to_Port|put to port]] and shared the same fiery fate as the docks where it was created.

===Freeborn Flame Marina===
Work began on the [[Construct_Atalaya_Harbour|reconstruction]] of Atalaya harbour following an opportunity [[The_power_behind_our_moves#Atalaya|presented]] after the National Assembly of the Brass Coast called on the people of Feroz to flee the territory rather than suffer under the hands of the Grendel. Work was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 385YE and the abundance of willing, talented shipwrights has meant [[fleet|fleets]] are most easily upgradeable, at least until the Brass Coast reclaim Feroz.

On the harbour, looking out to sea, are a number of statues each one different but reminiscent of contemporary Freeborn.

===Parador of Kindled Flame===
Work on the [[folly|orphanage]] was commissioned by '''Laughlan Vi Temeschwar''', [[Master of Rings]], during the [[Construct Parador of the Kindled Flame|Summer Solstice 385YE]]. The building itself is understated, with the only real decoration being a small plaque at the entrance “''In Virtue we remember those who watch over others. These names as follow helped with the construction of this sanctuary: Tiana i Zayden i Riqueza, Bakar i Riqueza, Ray Fosterbrooke, and Laughlan Vi Temeschwar''”

==Regions==
===Calvos Sound===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
The town of [[#Calvos|Calvos]] stands on the shores of Calvos Sound; the entire [[territory#regions|region]] is named for the great shallow bay that cuts into the eastern shores of the Brass Coast. The waters of the Sound are prime fishing grounds, and the surrounding slopes are known for their rich agriculture, especially grapes, grapefruits, and pomegranates. At the end of the [[Imperial_history#.28281_YE_-_300_YE.29_The_Second_Interregnum|second interregnum]], Calvos Sound was the site of a vicious engagement between [[Grendel]] raiders and the forces of the [[Red_Wind_Corsairs#History|Red Wind Corsairs]]. Despite catastrophic losses, the Freeborn army held. Close to breaking they were forced to retreat, but the campaign achieved its purpose by convincing the nations of the south that the threat from the Grendel was real, events that would eventually lead to the elevation of [[Empress Deanne]]. To this day, many of the people of Calvos Sound have a notable antipathy for the orcs of the Broken Shore.

===Free Landing===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
The sprawling islands that form the region of Free Landing are diverse and well-settled. The islands here were the first home of the Freeborn - the town of [[#Atalaya|Atalaya]] marks the spot where the Brass Coast proper began. The waters between the islands have a reputation for being treacherous and difficult for foreign captains; during the reign of [[Empress Aenea]] the Empire built a great lighthouse here called '''The Shining Pillar'''. This massive white-and-gold tower is one of the most prominent landmarks in the Empire often adopted by Freeborn sailors as a symbol of the Brass Coast as a whole; when they can see the beacon of the Shining Pillar, they know they are home. The grand lighthouse echoes the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lighthouse_of_Alexandria Lighthouse of Alexandria] in design, rather than more modern tall cylindrical towers, and is constructed of white granite. Mithril mirrors that capture and amplify the light of the fire burning atop it, which is kept burning by a cadre of attendants who live in the towerr.

When the Grendel invaded Madruga in Winter 381YE, they looted many precious relics from the town of Atalaya and burnt the shipyard there to the ground. In the process they destroyed the Freeborn [[Imperial navy|navy]], the Freeborn Storm.

===The Great Grasses===
These fertile plains are sometimes called the Emerald Sea; and the nomadic families who live here the Corsairs of the Emerald Sea. The inhabitants have a reputation for being a little more insular than is typical of the Brass Coast. They own large herds and mostly keep to themselves except when they visit the towns of Siroc Plains, Lightsea and Calvos Sound to sell their animals. There are no permanent settlements of significant size on the Great Grasses.

===Lightsea===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
A well-settled region known for the friendliness of its [[The_Brass_Coast_economic_interests#Paradors|paradors]]. The largest settlement here is '''Quzar''', a bustling port town of white towers and stained glass that is sometimes described as the soul of the Brass Coast. The Towers of Quzar are known as a gathering place for [[hakima]] from all across the nation - an annual "council" meets here every midsummer to share knowledge and gossip.

Many of the coastal settlements here were plundered by the Grendel during their incursion toward the end of 381YE. Quzar in particular was hard hit by the orc raiders, with some damage to the town and significant damage to the wealth of the citizens. A year later toward the end of 382YE potent magic [[The_mystic,_the_willful#Miracles_in_Lightsea|restored the town]], wiping away any sign the Grendel were ever there.

===Siroc Plains===
'''Quality:''' Coastal<br>
The plains around the city of [[#Siroc|Siroc]] are scattered with small villages and threaded with well-maintained roads. The [[#Lyceum|Lyceum]] stands on an island off the coast here and contributes to the reputation of this region as the beating heart of the Brass Coast.<br>

===Torres===
The northernmost region of Madruga, and one end of the [[#The Spider's Dream|Spider's Dream]]. The land here is a little more rugged than in the southern regions, and the climate is generally cooler. The people who dwell here share some of the reputation of the miners of [[Kahraman]]; as being suspicious and quarrelsome. Partly this reputation might be a result of regular clashes between Freeborn traders and [[the League|League]] merchants out of [[Sarvos]]. A regular 'problem' for the inhabitants is that League merchants would prefer to travel south to the more prosperous towns of the eastern coast to sell their wares, bypassing the markets of Torres. It is shameful to admit, but there are more incidents of brigandry against League caravans in Torres than in almost any other area around the Bay of Catazar. When such incidents get out of hand, the [[Spider's Tollkeep]] is often prevailed upon to sort them out.

The town of [[#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]] is found in the north-west of Torres. Formerly a home to Freeborn displaced from Kahraman and Segura, it is now home to a very different group of refugees - Marracossan exiles from the [[Asavean Archipelago]].

{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Madruga|Territory=Madruga|Season=Winter}}

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the Spider's Dream bridge hampers movement between Madruga and Sarvos or Tassato'''
The damage to the Spider's Dream bridge presents significant difficulties to [[Imperial army|armies]] trying to move between Madruga and either [[Tassato]] or [[Sarvos]] (or vice versa). Any army that does so must immediately stop in the other territory, even if they still have movement remaining. Repairing the Spider's Tollkeep will require the Senate to commission an [[appraisal]] to determine how best to replicate the genius of the suspension bridge's original architect without damaging its integrity.

==OOC Notes==
* All the regions of Madruga are in Freeborn (and thus Imperial) hands.
* The [[#The Atalaya Shipyards|Atalaya Shipyards]] were a [[great work]] that provided a share of additional money to any [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] character who operates a [[fleet]] out of Madruga. They were destroyed by the Grendel in Winter 381YE.
* The [[#Freeborn Flame Marina|Freeborn Flame Marina]] was [[Construct_Atalaya_Harbour|constructed]] from the ruins of the Atalaya Shipyards. Any Freeborn character can upgrade their fleet in Madruga for one less wain of [[weirwood]]. This benefit stops if the Brass Coast controls [[Feroz]]
* [[#The_Salt_Guard|The Salt Guard]] is a rank one fortification. Against any [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive|shore offensive]] aimed at capturing Siroc or the Lyceum (essentially any Shore Offensive aimed at the Siroc Plains), the fortification would resist conquest with an effective force of 6,000 (bearing in mind that the benefit of a fortification in a region directly being attacked will further increase this force, this is a significant advantage).

{{Brass Coast Links}}

385YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements

2023-11-20T19:59:58Z

RichardRaynor: sp

[[Category: Synod]] [[Category:Synod Results]] [[Category: Synod Judgements]] [[Category: 385YE Autumn]]
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SynodAutumn385.png|caption=Judgements are the way that the various assemblies of the [[Imperial Synod]] carry out their business.|align=right|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
During the Autumn Equinox 385YE Summit, the [[Imperial Synod]] raised 202 [[judgement|judgements]].
==Change of Doctrine==
The following [[change of doctrine]] was proposed during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 3===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Clarice Novarion
* '''Judgement:''' To remove the Doctrine of Human Destiny and replace it with the Doctrine of Enlightenment. The virtuous inspire others to greatness; they do not demean them. Let us celebrate the spiritual power of Virtue without degrading our fellow Pilgrims. Let us inspire orcs and humans as equals in the Way with a true expression of Pride and Ambition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (3013 - 159)
* '''Notes:''' This historic judgement both rescinds the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Human_Destiny|Doctrine of Human Destiny]] and creates a new Doctrine of Enlightenment. The full implications of this significant change to [[the Doctrines of the Faith]] will be felt over the coming months.
<big>'''The Doctrine of Enlightenment'''</big>
<div class="ic"><div class="ic-inner" style="display: block;">
<big>''Virtue lies in choice and action. Virtue's power to exalt transcends the boundaries of soul, spirit, and species, guiding and inspiring both orcs and humans to their highest destiny. Through the practice of Virtue, orcs and humans develop the strength, knowledge and enlightenment which marks their highest potential as thinking beings .''</big></div></div>
__TOC__

==Veto==
One [[veto]] was sought during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 202===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Fool of Glory
* '''Judgement:''' The Assembly of Nine veto the election of the Throne.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld, with a Greater Majority (0-6); Primacy
* '''Notes:''' A [[veto]] may still be sought on the appointment of [[the Throne]] by the General Assembly.

==Statement of Principle==
===Judgement 4===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Prince Bishop Hildebrand von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Virtue is spread by example and what better way can there be to share that example than the arts! We encourage all citizens of the League to bask in the glow of stained glass, to weep at plays, and to be inspired by great virtuous tales. Art begets virtue and virtue begets art.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (301-12)

===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Yosephus Morningson
* '''Judgement:''' The views of the Tample of Balance are not shared by all priests but neither are they heretical. Those who hold such views should be allowed to preach according to their beliefs. Note: Commentary on this judgement has been published on the public notice board in the hub and Yosephus Morningson is available to discuss it and share further documentation. Yosephus can be found wearing white robes with a straw hat and will be in the hub on Friday at 9pm, Saturday at 10am, 1:30pm, 3pm, and 9pm, and Sunday at 10am, Noon, and 1pm.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (340-760)
===Judgement 6===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Hector of Tropaion
* '''Judgement:''' The Druj will always threaten that which we watch over. We must strike decisively in their heartland, to thwart their planned malice before we fall foul of it. This assembly advocates the cursing of Sarnath.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (275-16)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] are part of [[the Mallum]], the homelands of the [[Druj]]. The Empire is currently engaged in a [[A_walk_in_shadow|military campaign]] there. The [[Citadel Guard]] are present, presenting the opportunity to take advantage of the [[Urizen]] [[Imperial army|army]] ability to [[Army_qualities#Magic|channel ritual magic]] into the [[territory]].
===Judgement 9===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ortenzia di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' This assembly encourage the ambitious, wise, and vigilant search for potions and substances that will allow orc priests of all nations to engage with the virtues in similar ways to how human priests use liao.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (2733-10)
* '''Notes''': [[Orc|Orcs]] are [[Orc#Rules_FAQ|unable]] to use [[liao]], and do not gain benefits from the [[Tisanes of the Labyrinth]].
===Judgement 13===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Set Mael Donjeon
* '''Judgement:''' From the now-blest Barrens shrine / Weary we walked / Great grief tempering great joy / One thing I know / That soothes a heavy heart / Is the gift of faithful friend. We returned from the Barrens in summer to a heroic welcome from the Fellowship of the Broken Willow and the Winterfolk. The Troubadours of Dawn are grateful for, and shall remember this kindness.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (313-0)
* '''Notes:''' This seems to refer to the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[A_glorious_victory#Here_We_Stand_.28Conjunction.29|expedition]] to [[the Barrens]] at the Summer Solstice, during which they consecrated a chapel with [[liao#True Liao|true liao]], creating an [[inspirational location]].
===Judgement 15===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Averil Olsen Warsmith of the Iron Way
* '''Judgement:''' Wintermark should remain Vigilant against our many enemies who attempt to shatter out battles lines. We should use our Wisdom to know further war with these enemies will happen. Therefore we should begin to produce Artisan Oil on a larger scale. As a nation we should take Pride in our runesmith traditions and build an Artisan Academy which would give us space to train new runesmiths. This would simultaneously produce a reserve of Artisan Oil for this great nation. This would allow our already trained Artisans to dedicate more time to crafting more complex magic items for Wintermark and the Empire. The Storm will never break us.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (333-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Artisan's Oil]] is a substance invented in the [[Commonwealth]] that allows [[Calls#SHATTER|shattered]] weapons and shields to be [[mend|mended]]. Any Imperial [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisan]] can create it., as the procedure for doing so was disseminated throughout the Empire in late Autumn and early Winter of 379YE by agents of the [[Fellowship of Purple Sails]].

===Judgement 16===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Friar John of the Mourn
* '''Judgement:''' It has become common in current times that past life visions have been shared and recorded more widely for the sake of reclaiming lost history and investigating the Way. Until recently, past life visions were more often a private, spiritual affair intended to offer guidance to the visionary. We call upon all those across the Empire, including those who do not attend Anvil, who may have had a more private past life vision to consider volunteering that information. This should even be if their names are to be kept anonymous in the records. Such knowledge enriches our understanding of the soul and of the Way. It allows us to track whether known virtuous souls have been reborn, gives us an insight onto history, and potentially brings us new tales of virtue which could be used to inspire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (2506-9)
* '''Notes:''' A [[past life vision]] is achieved through the use of [[liao#True Liao|true liao]]. In recent years, records of many past life visions have been published by the [[Seer of the Gateway]] and [[Disseminate_True_Liao_visions|shared with interested readers]] across the Known World; this publication represents only the tip of the iceberg however. There are more than three centuries of Imperial past life visions for which there is no publicly available documentation.
===Judgement 29===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Jedediah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' Hue and Cry, Miners and Landskeepers of the Mourn and Marches! The constellation of the Wanderer still shines bright in the sky! Watch the tunnels of your land with Vigilance and cast your mine enchantments with cautious wisdom. Invoke the name of Jonah Gold as you stand together against mysterious spirits that offer wealth and good fortune; they are no hard workers of the land, but tulpas fit only for driving away! Miners and Landskeepers, Hue and Cry!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (156-10)
* '''Notes:''' This caution appears to refer to [[Various_storms_and_saints#Spirits_of_Stone|recent peculiar effects]] reported by magicians performing [[enchantment|enchantments]] aimed at [[mine|mines]], apparently connected to a conjunction of [[the Wanderer]].

===Judgement 31===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Limonos of the Astral Observatory
* '''Judgement:''' Magicians are the leaders of our nation, however consequences are the price of Ambition. In light of recent events we call on Sentinels to remember their role as guardians of our nation, and remind them that threats can come from within as well as without. Do not be afraid to act to protect Urizen, even if you would act against other Urizeni.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (218-85)
* '''Notes:''' An exhortation to the [[sentinel|sentinels]] of [[Urizen]], who form the bulk of the nation's armed forces and embrace the arts of war with the same passion and commitment with which their fellow Urizeni study magic.
===Judgement 32===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Able the Taller
* '''Judgement:''' Zenith is being rebuilt, stone by stone. One Ring At A Time. But we must not shy away from the lessons of the recent past, the mistakes and weakness that lead to the despoiling of our homes and the loss of our territory. Consequences are the Cost of Ambition, we must seek to raise another Army, and commit ourselves to this path however long it takes to travel.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (348-0)
* '''Notes:''' Each nation can maintain only a limited number of [[Imperial army|armies]] (and [[Imperial navy|navies]]). Urizen can [[Imperial_army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces|support]] only a single army - currently the [[Citadel Guard]].
===Judgement 35===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Luca i Taziel i Riquez
* '''Judgement:''' The Human Spirit can be touched by Purity, Pride, Peace, Prosperity, and more. Seemingly, every aura is a tune which plays in harmony with something intrinsic and pure in Spirit's song, regardless of how we feel about the notes. The Virtues were chosen as Doctrine, as we choose peace or war, amity or enmity, enemies or lovers (although those can sometimes be the same). The Doctrine of Seven is a choice built on evidence first and opinion second, but it is a choice we made and can unmake. It must be treated as such. We cannot cry heresy at a question asked, when our predecessors asked it too. We cannot claim an understanding of the Human Spirit when we do not at least acknowledge all the music it sings.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (743-869)
* '''Notes:''' The [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Seven|Doctrine of the Seven]] is one of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith|Doctrines of the Faith]] that form the foundation of the Way. It states that "''There are seven Virtues that guide the spirit through the Labyrinth of Ages. These are Ambition, Courage, Loyalty, Pride, Prosperity, Vigilance and Wisdom. Other qualities may benefit humanity, but lend no aid through the passage of death to rebirth, and some may hinder it.''".
===Judgement 36===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Nekoda of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' As the Freefolk complete their pilgrimage around the Empire, in the way the forebears of Highguard completed their pilgrimage across the Bay of Catazar and the First Empress brought the Revelation across the nations of the Empire, we the Highborn recognise them as kindred souls and invite them to settle with us and find new homes in our Nation. We are all scions of Atun and Atuman, as peoples seeking our paths in the world, dedicated to the pursuit of the Way, and following in the Inspiration of our exemplars and paragons. Let us do so together. In Loyalty, let us build up one another. In Pride, let us embrace our pasts and inspire one another. In Wisdom, let us test what we know, and learn together.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (602-10)
* '''Notes:''' [[Atun]] and [[Atuman]] are inspiration figures credited with establishing the Highborn nation and the foundations of the Way. The Free Folk are former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves who practice the Way, albeit in an unfamiliar fashion. Many have spent the last year engaged in a [[Folklore#The_Free_Folk_Pilgrimage|pilgrimage to inspirational locations]] across the Empire, with the support of the [[Imperial Synod]].

===Judgement 37===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Isaia Pavone di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' Prosperity teaches that all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it. We benefit from Urizen's sacrifice and we must repay our debts. Let us prove we hear Urizen's pain and that we are no the thieving bandits they fear us to be. Lorenzo's Legacies provide the League with ample mana, and our Urizeni siblings are in need. Let us send the mana from these Great Works to shroud the spires of Spiral.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (325-110)
* '''Notes:''' Wealthy philanthropist Lorenzo “La Volpe” Macelliao von Temeschwar left many legacies behind; some of the best known are the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#The_Legacies_of_Virtue|Legacies of Virtue]] established in half-a-dozen territories across the Empire - [[great work|great works]] that increase the amount of crystal mana that can be harvested at [[mana site|mana sites]] in those territories. This statement also seems to reference the possibility of providing the [[spire|spires]] of [[Spiral]] with the mana needed to enact rituals that would help them remain connected to their fellows in [[Zenith]] and [[Redoubt]], as detailed in a [[A_question_of_loyalty#Spires|recent appraisal]].
===Judgement 38===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Velko Perunovich Razoradze
* '''Judgement:''' Drowning criminals in the Semmerlak is not an act of idolatry it is a return to the agreements of old. Dho'uala wants the mortal bodies of condemned criminals. Fulfilling this request is not heathen sacrifice it is a necessary bargain. Lawful execution by drowning is no different to chopping of a head in the eyes of virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld, Withdrawn (983-1042); Scrutiny was [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|extended]] by the [[Cardinal of Vigilance]].
* '''Notes:''' Appears to be talking about the [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Those_Who_No_Longer_Need_To_Live|proposal to drown criminals]] in the waters of [[the Semmerlak]] to mollify the [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereign]] known as [[Dho'uala]]. While a [[Senate motion]] was raised regarding this proposal, it was [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_execution_in_territories_around_the_Semmerlak|subsequently withdrawn]].

===Judgement 47===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Saul Truthmonger
* '''Judgement:''' Highguards bonds of Loyalty spread to helping souls in need. Vendarri orcs have stated that they want to settle, if only they had a swamp to call home. Ambition drives us to seek excellence in all things - so we should do what we can to make our lands more hospitable. Then we can begin to treat non believers as souls to be saved, rather than enemies to be destroyed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (252-80)
* '''Notes:''' This relates to the complex situation of the [[Not_to_conquer#Vendarri|Vendarri]] sept of orcs in [[the Barrens]]. The [[Imperial Senate]] has declared that this sept are barbarians, clarifying the situation in an [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Declare_war_on_the_Vendarri|administrative motion]] during the Autumn Equinox.

===Judgement 50===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Josephine of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' Orcs are members of the Empire and are known to benefit from the Way of Virtue. For years Orcish traditions have been attacked and their voices spoken over and disrespected. There are now many Septs in the Empire each with their own traditions. The Empire is changing, we as humans must acknowledge what we've done and treat them with the respect they are owed as fellow citizens of the Empire. Talk to them, ask what they need and actually ''listen'' to their answer rather than just assume.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1678-168)
===Judgement 51===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Corrado Filiarchi de Regario
* '''Judgement:''' The virtuous build up their fellows they do not tear them down. Urizen draws a knife to their own neck and call themselves cohesive. They call out the spilling of Urizeni blood as if by returning Spiral through diplomacy, we have not saved the blood of the Empire being spilled without need. Calls to violence came from Urizeni tongues, not the Empire. We wish to bring citizens from across the League - including Apulian Orcs - to open themselves to talk with Urizen and to match their threat of warfare with diplomacy that gives us the chance to discuss this, to push the logic of this choice with conversation. We will not justify rebellion with warfare. To subvert the authority of the Imperial senate and resort to armed rebellion is to lose the great game, we of the League instead (??) invite Urizen to play as equals for all is prosperity.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (301-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Windfall|recent]] [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment|assignment]] of [[Spiral]] to [[the League]], and the [[A question of loyalty|complex situation]] developing there.

===Judgement 53===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Merari Navigators of Virtue
* '''Judgement:''' Unveiling is a valid spiritual discipline, Highborn assembly 384. A year ago as a nation the lineaged and unlineaged priests of Highguard declared with one prideful voice that our tradition of unveiling is a valid practice in our spiritual journey. This remains unchanged! However, we each travel our own path while we journey through the Way. It is true that unveiling can be fruitful for a person's spiritual growth. But it must be stressed that if a Lineaged adherent of the Way chooses not to unveil, that is also equally valid.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (484-32)
* '''Notes:''' [[Highguard_lineage_and_species_attitudes#Specific_Lineage|Unveiling]] is a somewhat controversial practice among some [[lineage|lineaged]] [[Highguard|Highborn]] in which they remove or disfigure the visible marks of their lineage, usually by cutting off their [[Cambion|horns]] or [[Changeling|antlers]].
===Judgement 56===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Vespasian
* '''Judgement:''' The Cold Sun seeks not only to exterminate the people of the Empire, but eliminate our culture and art as well. We have lost the Grand Conservatory of Music, Freya's Garden, and the Unbound Steel Hall of Lost Chapters - we must not lose any more great works of our cultures. We urge the Prideful to proclaim their Pride in how they conduct every part of their lives by rising up against the Cold Sun and aiding the soldiers of the Empire against it. Despise the half-hearted, the uncommitted, and the pretender in this struggle for our identities.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a greater Majority (590-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Cold Sun]] is an [[eternal]] of the Day Realm whose soldiers are engaged in a [[To_the_last_syllable|military campaign]] across the Empire, one that recently saw the destruction of the three locations mentioned in the statement.
===Judgement 58===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Grogfear, son of Grignir
* '''Judgement:''' The Prosperous are not selfish; all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it. Atte Arrow-Tongued has shown themselves to be a steadfast supporter of strengthening Wintermark. They have guided us through some of the most turbulent times since the death of the Young Empress. It is their words we give voice to at our moots. "Three people, one nation. Ten nations, one Empire." They played a key role in the gifting of Skarsind to the Imperial orcs and were vital to the success of the initial Liberty Pact negotiations. Now they have committed themselves to lifting up Sermersuaq, ensuring the territory does not continue to be overlooked. Wintermark is proud to add their tales to the Chronicle of Heroes.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (371-0)
* '''Notes:''' The name of Atte Arrow-Tongued has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]].

===Judgement 59===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Ubarius of Tropaion Citadel
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtues do not demean others, they inspire them to greatness. The Faraden follow four of the True Virtues, but also are demeaned by the false virtue of Vengeance. They also have a national shortage of liao. The Empire should not be giving or selling liao directly to the Faraden, where it may fall into the hands of blasphemers. Rather, we urge our Prideful missionaries to dedicate Faraden priests that follow Pride, and given them Hallowed items. This will raise their status in Faraden society, relative to those who follow Vengeance, thus inspiring them to greatness.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (498-28)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Faraden]] are foreigners who live to the west of the Empire, across the [[Jotun]]-controlled Lasambrian Hills. Their [[Faraden#Faraden_Religious_Beliefs|religion]] has similarities to the Way, including the veneration of the virtues of [[Pride]], [[Courage]], [[Loyalty]], and [[Prosperity]], but differs in several key regards most well-known of which is their inclusion of the [[malign spiritual presences|malign spiritual presence]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Vengeance|Vengeance]] alongside the four true virtues. The Pride assembly has [[Wild_blue_yonder#Faraden|recently engaged]] with the priests of Faraden, to learn more about their faith; further information is expected to be made available to Imperial citizens soon.
===Judgement 61===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' "Shacklebreaker" Thranmir Hrafnar
* '''Judgement:''' Helgunn Chargebringer of the Fellowship of the Broken Willow should have their name written in the Chronicle of Heroisum. They were a Courageous, Pridefull, Wise, and Loyal leader of the Heart of the Mark until they met their end in Kahraman. Time and time again they welcomed new heroes of Wintermark into their battle unit, helped train them up into heroes, and watched over them as they helped the Empire secure greater victories on the battlefield. They earnt their Hero name "Chargebringer" for showing immense Courage through leading multiple charges from the front and inspired everyone to step with them. A Hero has a name!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (365-0)
* '''Notes:''' The name of Helgunn Chargebringer has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]]
===Judgement 62===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Rafe
* '''Judgement:''' The young empress Britta Gilderling is a virtuous example to us all, memorialized in Necropolis, as she rests in the waters of the Sovevann. We believe it is time to link these two places of pilgrimage both symbolically and literally, for those visiting the memorial in Necropolis should also be directed to the pool where Britta Gilderling rests, and vice versa so that those what come to Britta's pool are also sent to see how her virtuous actions are remembered by all the people of the Empire. Three people, one nation, many nations under the Way in one great Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (331-0)
* '''Notes:''' The body of [[Empress Britta]] was given to the marshes of the [[Kallavesa#The_Sovevann|Sovevann]] in 376YE, while her regalia was placed in a [[Guardian of Britta's Shrine|shrine]] in the [[Necropolis]]. In Autumn 379YE, the regalia were removed from the shrine and [[To sleep in Kallavesa|interred in the marshes]] alongside her body. [[Watcher_of_Britta%27s_Pool#Britta's Pool|Britta's Pool]] remains a place of pilgrimage for those who wish to honour the memory of the Young Empress, while the former tomb has been [[Guardian_of_Britta%27s_Memorial|rededicated]] to the virtue of [[Courage]].
===Judgement 64===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Elagabala
* '''Judgement:''' Rebels of Spiral, the Grendel are coming. Their false faith demands they invade your home. Philostrate, host of Menos, has asked "where were you twenty years ago? Ten years ago?" We are at the negotiating table. You are at the negotiating table. If you take the land you intend, the Grendel's eight units will slaughter you, and the Empire will be unable to help. Look to Urizen's enemies to the south. Your home is in peril.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (181-110)
* '''Notes:''' This seems to be an address to the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|rebellious]] [[Urizen]] [[spire|spires]] in [[Spiral]], referencing the end of the [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE|treaty]] securing peace with the [[Grendel]] that came to an end with the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 67===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtue face unwelcome truths as boldly as any barbarian charge. The Urizen National Assembly and the Sword Scholars within it have undoubtedly shown themselves to be bold; and have made the Courageous decision through their Wisdom to no longer venerate the actions of Sulemaine. In their time, they have inspired others to greatness and will continue to do so; and the Highguard National Assembly anticipates further brilliance from them. Let us see together what bright future we build for our wonderful Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (438-6)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.
===Judgement 68===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Aedig Steadfast
* '''Judgement:''' Foeslayer the artefact banner held by Emperor Guntherm and possibly Empress Britta, is missing since Britta's death. The Crows call upon the mystics, the wise, the scops, the elders, and the scholars, to bring us any news of this banner's resting place.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (337-0)
* '''Notes:''' Foe-slayer is an [[Magic_items#Artefacts|artefact]] [[Three Tears|Three Tears]] banner, born into battle by the [[Banner-Bearer]] of [[Emperor Guntherm]] banner-bearer until he fell in battle with the Jotun. It was said that the banner was interred in the [[Kallavesa|Kallavesi swamps]] alongside the Emperor - and that his ghost personally gave the banner to [[Empress Britta]] when she came of age. The whereabouts of the magical standard are not common knowledge at this time.

===Judgement 70===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Irada von Temeschwar
* '''Judgement:''' The inspiration of Berechiah drives Vigilance pilgrims and priests to actively tear out the poison that threatens the Empire. We the vigilance assembly encourage the creation of an Inspirational monument consecrated with true liao at his Basilica in Bastion, so that his inspiration, in rooting out threats can be felt across the Empire
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (250-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Berechiah]] is an often-controversial [[Paragons_and_exemplars#Renowned_Exemplars|exemplar]] of [[Vigilance]]. This statement calls for the establishment of an [[inspirational location]] at his basilica, which stands in the city of [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City|Bastion]], in [[Highguard]].
===Judgement 71===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rey Fosterbrooke
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Imperial Synod, guardians of the Empire's faithful, acknowledge the differing orcish beliefs within our borders. While the Imperial Orcs adhere to our current doctrine, we recognise the unique spiritual path followed by the Mournwold Orcs. The virtue of wisdom teaches us to test what we know. Thus we propose a theological research imitative to explore these orc related doctrines - Reincarnation, the Howling Abyss, and the Ancestors. This seeks common ground, evaluates historical and cultural significance, and fosters dialogue between these two communities.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1896-67)
* '''Notes:''' This statement speaks on the complex matter of [[orc]] spiritual beliefs, especially as they relate to the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#Doctrines_of_The_Faith|doctrines]] of [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Reincarnation|Reincarnation]], the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Howling_Abyss|Howling Abyss]], and the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Ancestors|Ancestors]]. The [[Mournwold Orcs]] in particular believe that they are [[Mournwold_Orcs#Religion|capable of reincarnation]], a matter that has become increasingly pressing since the Marcher assembly has [[#Judgement 199|called on their nation]] to embrace the former Jotun thralls as fellow Marchers.
===Judgement 74===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdon
* '''Raised By:''' Lord Laurant Sephulcre
* '''Judgement:''' Test what you learn; only fools accept hearsay as truth. The Free Folk come to us with tales of their Divine Family. The Speaker for the Dead is recognised as an Exemplar, yet three more remain. We encourage those who believe the Free Folk to bring forward proof of their claims: evidence, fact, and reason. If truth can be found, recognition can follow. If the Divine Family are <s>nothing</s> more than tales and fables then they are <s>un</s>worthy of reverence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (300-44)
* '''Notes:''' The [[On the Speaker for the Dead|Speaker for the Dead]] is one of the inspirations venerated by the former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves known as the Free Folk, recently [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_3|recognised as an exemplar]]. They are one of four figures dubbed "the Divine Family", who are further discussed in a [[Folklore#Freefolk_Pamphlets|number of pamphlets]] distributed by the Free Folk.

===Judgement 75===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Creighton Blackewater
* '''Judgement:''' It has been one year since we freed the slaves at Rachensgrab and we have done nothing to help them. We killed their pretender god, burned its temple, freed its slaves, and plunder its vault for ourselves. Prosperity teaches us to despise those who take without giving, but we took everything from Rachensgrab without giving anything to the slaves. Now we take more by trading with the Bailiffs of the Guttered Flame. I call upon the Empire to right this wrong and see that the former slaves of Rachensgrab claim the just rewards of their labours.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1429-204)
* '''Notes:''' Rachensgrab was an island city-state in the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Steel|Sea of Steel]], a centre for the international slave trade [[Burning|destroyed by Imperial forces]] following the Winter Solstice 384YE. The majority of the slaves freed in the fall of Rachensgrab were taken in by [[the Commonwealth]], with only a few choosing to make the journey to the Empire. The Bailiffs of the Guttered Flame are a group of heralds from the [[Ephisis|City of Gold and Lead]] who recently [[Farewell_wanderlust#Wages_of_Wickedness|offered deals]] to Imperial magicians relating to the estate of the former [[Ephisis#Pharam_Vex.2C_Voivode_of_Chains|Voivode of Chains]], a lieutenant of Ephisis involved in the slave trade before their destruction at the hands of Imperial forces.
===Judgement 76===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Galahad Avalone
* '''Judgement:''' We wish to announce the judgement of the troubadours or Dawn as to the Champions this year. Ambition - Catrine Words the "Unbelivably Magical" (2nd year): Courage - Laudine du Lac (previously Vigilance): Loyalty - Armand Remys (2nd Year): Vigilance- Morien de Carsenere (Previously Love, Glory, Ambition): Wisdom - Dindrane de Cantharos: Prosperity - Talis: Pride - Bors de Carsenere (Previously Prosperity): Way - Claude Videre (2nd year, previously Wisdom): Love - Claudia Lovelorn (Previously Courage): Glory - the Hounds of Glory.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (183-0)
* '''Notes:''' Each Autumn the [[troubadour|troubadours]] of [[Dawn]] crown a number of [[Dawn_religious_beliefs|champions of virtue]], as well as champions of Love and Glory who receive small gifts from the people of the nation in recognition of their achievements. These are distinct from the [[Create_titles_of_Champions_of_Virtue|Champions of Virtue]] appointed by the [[Imperial Synod]].

===Judgement 78===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Tarquinius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' Since we raised a judgement refusing to aid the League until they proved that they were more than petty opportunists they have: 1) Paid mithril to erect statues that help to protect us. 2) Publicly acknowledged that a reckoning is due. 3) Assigned a reckoner and opened negotiations. The League have proven in word and deed that we are not just dealing with petty opportunists. The people taking these steps demonstrate a genuine intention to build a future for Spiral that benefits all of its residents. There is still much work to be done and our spires will remain apart from their city until it is complete, but it would now be appropriate to once again use the mithril block to defend their minds from the plateau, though we are not yet ready to share its secrets.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (345-0)
* '''Notes:''' This relates to the complex situation in [[Spiral]] since it [[Windfall|became part of]] [[the League]]. It refers to the [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_67|mandate enacted by Lepidina]], urging that the secrets of [[Spiral#The_Block|the Block]] (which helps mitigate the effects of living in Spiral) [[The_fate_of_the_many#A_Precious_Secret|not be shared]] outside the nation.

===Judgement 79===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Aspar
* '''Judgement:''' Embrace your past, never be ashamed of it. Sulemaine i Taziel's teachings are timeless, and we take inspiration from them, but her legacy now belongs to us. The Sword Scholars of Urizen have found Sulemaine's limits and we have gone beyond them. To venerate Sulemaine without question is to have learned nothing from her lessons. We encourage all Sword Scholars to forge their own path, free from the shackles of the past. Interrogate the world with your blade and with your mind, be unfaltering, be relentless, question everything, and find your own truth.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (328-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, repudiating the legacy of [[Sulemaine|Sulemaine i Taziel]]. The Urizen Assembly had previously endorsed the teachings of this controversial figure, [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_100|stating in a mandate]] in 383YE that they were "''the perfect epitome of the Urizeni spirit - pure calculating reason unhindered by emotion or pity''."

===Judgement 80===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Atushak i Fijadoz i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' Each summit our senators and dhomiro agree on infrastructure projects that are the key priorities for the nation. Our prosperity should be used to support these strategic projects before shorter term tactical/personal gains which will have less benefit in the long run.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (116-7)
* '''Notes:''' The Freeborn people fiercely protect their right to decide how to spend their wealth, meaning the decision whether to invest in "national projects" or to donate to charity are always left to the individual. The assembly has also urged their people to [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_71|contribute to the grand endeavour]] - the sacred city in [[Bastion]] - meaning that there is [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|little interest]] in statements that urge the people to support other projects at the current time.
===Judgement 84===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Palladius
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom is finding the right question. The Apulian Orcs say power is a crown, but virtue is its own reward, the virtuous uplift then pe(?). But only one (?) wear a crown. We bring the (?)enge of Wisdom to the Apulian orcs so they can assure that virtue is their highest calling.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (399-28)
* '''Notes:''' This statement was unfortunately water damaged so some sections were illegible. It appears to refer to the [[chords|spiritual beliefs]] of the Apulian Orcs, and their integration with the Way.
===Judgement 85===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tabris, Son of Armisael
* '''Judgement:''' As the Free Folk complete their pilgrimage around the Empire, the time will come for them to settle and find a new home. The Highguard national assembly has a statement of principle in place, recognising them as kindred souls, and inviting them to join the Highborn nation. We encourage priests from all over the Empire who may be hosting Freefolk to advise them of Highguard's invitation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1366-220)
* '''Notes:''' The Free Folk are former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves who are currently engaged in a [[Folklore|pilgrimage across the Empire]]. A number of them are also [[Folklore#Study_and_Spirituality|studying the Way with Highborn priests]], taking advantage of scholarships paid for by the benefactors of Highguard. The invitational statement referred to may be [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_127|Judgement 127]] from 384YE Autumn Equinox, raised by Brother Aemon, which was upheld by the Highborn assembly but did not receive a greater majority. It could also be in reference to [[#Judgement 36|Judgement 36]] from this season, raised by Nekoda of the Shattered Tower.

===Judgement 86===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Chauntecleer Words
* '''Judgement:''' The telling of tales within Dawn is one of our cherished traditions for the instruction of virtues. Dawn thanks all those who took part in the Summer Contest of Words for continuing this, in particular our winner the Earl of Fools for their tale of Food Hygiene, as judged by the acclaim of our children.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (217-0)

===Judgement 87===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Vivane Knotes
* '''Judgement:''' We ask the Assembly to consider a series of judgements seeking consensus on the interpretations of the tradition of Black Knights. This is the first and pertains to the physical act of girding. Ideally a Black Knight would gird in isolation to maintain absolute secrecy. However this is not always practical; the entire tradition of girding exists because help may be required to put on harness. And sometimes an act can be made more glorious through an element of co-ordination. However girding as a group should be done in private, and any so witnessing understand the requirement for absolute discretion. It is definitely not appropriate to either gird; or announce the intent to gird identifiably, as a Black Knight in public. This completely undermines the premise that those taking part or observing do not know whom a Black Knight is, and therefore cannot attribute their deeds beyond "Dawn".
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (273-42)
* '''Notes:''' This statement discusses the [[Dawn_hearth_magic|hearth magic]] of [[Dawn]], as well as the tradition of the ''black knights'' and their singular [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Heraldry|heraldry]].
===Judgement 88===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Pickers Blackleap
* '''Judgement:''' As the prosperity assembly watches those that benefit from the white granite auction, it is clear Landon Hawcome said the quiet part out loud. He is now so financially insulated from competition that he can agree the lowest price for himself, while stopping others from getting on the ladder, and preventing them from being as prosperous as he can be. We believe the most prosperous individuals should show their virtue by nurturing healthy competition in the Bourse auctions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (150-56)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Auction of the Seats]] for [[white granite]] resources takes place each Summer Solstice.
===Judgement 89===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Grey Stone
* '''Judgement:''' On behalf of Quay Stone "Tomorrow's traditions grow from the seeds of today." Quay Stone of House Stone is gathering less-known Marcher maritime traditions. As the Empire's attention turns towards the Sea of Snow, the Marcher Assembly calls for Marchers to seek out and share the learned wisdom of our people, so that these traditions may better serve our nation and the world - whether it be through fishing, making war, or enabling others to march to safer shores.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (254-0)
===Judgement 90===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Kaywenn de Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' What we win we proudly defend, not just for us as Dawnish but also those in the Barrens who accept us as liberators. The Druj always return, we should stay ever vigilant and prepared for that inevitability.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (237-10)
===Judgement 91===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Tuuli
* '''Judgement:''' We caution all to remain vigilant against Blood-on-the-Snow after the upheaval this year, with three cultist leaders still at large. Share with your neighbours, keep each other warm, and remind each other that this is not forever. We are scions sired by a storm and shall weather whatever winter brings.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (342-0)
* '''Notes:''' As with [[#Judgement 92|Judgement 92]], this statement relates to the lingering threat of the [[eternal]] [[Agramant]] in the wake of the liberation of [[Sermersuaq]], especially the agents of ''Blood-on-the-Snow'' still believed to be at large - [[Anyone_but_you#Kaarina_White-Eye|Kaarine White-Eye]], [[Anyone_but_you#Maarik_the_Golden_Tongue|Maarik the Golden Tongue]], and [[Anyone_but_you#Wemba_the_Bloody|Wemba the Bloody]].
===Judgement 92===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Ourania Neofoti of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' We caution all to remain vigilant against Blood-on-the-Snow after the upheaval this year, with three cultist leaders still at large. We urge all those who follow wisdom to question those who offer boons and easy solutions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (412-0)
* '''Notes:''' As with [[Judgement #91|Judgement 91]], this statement relates to the influence of the [[eternal]] [[Agramant]] in the wake of the liberation of [[Sermersuaq]], especially the agents of ''Blood-on-the-Snow'' still believed to be at large - [[Anyone_but_you#Kaarina_White-Eye|Kaarine White-Eye]], [[Anyone_but_you#Maarik_the_Golden_Tongue|Maarik the Golden Tongue]], and [[Anyone_but_you#Wemba_the_Bloody|Wemba the Bloody]].
===Judgement 96===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' With regards the Barrens and the future of its people we remind the Empire of its long history of heterodoxy and accepting non-Imperials and non-Way peoples living in our lands, treated them well, and sought their input when we felt it useful. This includes the Mournwold Orcs, Great Forest Orcs, Sandfishers, Hylje, ex-Iron Confederacy, the Free Folk, and many others. The Empire is ten nations, Wintermark is three people. They will see the value of The Way over time. Rapidly putting them to the sword <u>or</u> ignoring their input imperils souls we could otherwise save.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (312-0)

===Judgement 97===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rooslan Stanvih Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' On behalf of the students of the Academy, especially Luca Lutaboravich Glinka, the Synod recognises that while boggarts of the realms can be troublesome there is no need to hurt them. With the right tools they can be herded and they can be bargained with for mutual advantage. We encourage the citizens of the Empire to first try diplomacy rather than aggression to more effectively deal with any boggart trouble. Remember, ambition teaches us it is better to try and fail, than fail to try.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1655-26)
* '''Notes:''' Boggarts are creatures of the realms roughly analogous to vermin ; much weaker than heralds but still capable of posing a threat to Imperial citizens. Recent Empire-wide enchantments have seen boggarts drawn from the [[A murder of one|Spring realm]], [[Inkpot_gods#Vermin_of_the_Cities|Autumn realm]], and even the realm of Day making a nuisance of themselves.
===Judgement 98===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Friar Rosemary Stamp
* '''Judgement:''' The Marcher assembly supports the decision of Lizzie Boholt-Stamp, Senator of Bregasland, to send the inquisitors in to Bregasland to find, and bring to justice, those who supported the Mathilda Fisher rebellion. The Marcher assembly calls upon Bregas priests to support justice and provide clemency pleas for the virtuous.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (258-16)
* '''Notes:''' This statement appears to relate to the [[When_Spring_comes#War_Requiem_.28Bregasland.29|tense situation]] in [[Bregasland]] following the withdrawal of the occupying forces. At the behest of the Senator for Bregasland the [[Imperial Senate]] has [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Instruct_Magistrates_to_investigate_Bregasland|instructed magistrates]] to [[When Spring comes#Send In the Magistrates|use an overwhelming show of force to gather evidence]] against anyone who offered support to the Fisher regime.

===Judgement 99===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Jenny Arbor
* '''Judgement:''' People of the Marches, those who cast Thunderous Deluge have been facing consequences for their actions. This is despite the Constitutional Court makingdirect legal recourse impossible by effectively giving them a declaration of Endorsement. So, Marcher covens have been cursing those involved in the casting so they feel at least some of the pain we felt. Most took their curses with courage acknowledging their mistakes, and are trying to make amends. One - Mercurico, did not have the Courage to do this, so will continue to educate him until he finds his courage.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (116-10)
* '''Notes:''' This relates to the [[Bad_blood#The_Names_on_the_Wind|fallout around]] the performance of an Empire-wide [[Thunderous Deluge]] in [[Bad_blood#The_Names_on_the_Wind|Autumn384YE]].
===Judgement 100===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Cassia Sikweaver
* '''Judgement:''' The Prosperous are not selfish, all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it. Last season, the Varushkan boyars donated the use of an Imperial Wayleave to ensure that the Gardens of Pallas could be built in Zenith. We the Urizen National Assembly Witness this act of sharing. Be it hearthside hospitality or uplifting their fellows at a time when much feels broken and uncertain, the Varushkan people have held out their hand to us, and we thank them from the depths of our souls. Despise those who take without giving - this act will not be forgotten by the people of Urizen.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (314-0)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[commission]] creating new [[Reconstruct Gardens of Pallas|Gardens]] in [[Zenith]], following the [[appraisal]] of [[Restoration_and_renewal#Restoring_the_Gardens|Summer 385YE]].
===Judgement 101===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' The Urizeni National Assembly recognises the courage and loyalty of the people of Spiral. We are now at the negotiating stage with the League. Do not sacrifice what does not need to be sacrificed. I, as Convenor of the Urizen National Assembly, assure you we will get you the recompense you deserve.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (229-91). The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 223.
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[A question of loyalty|complex situation]] in [[Spiral]]. The Urizen assembly does not have a [[Imperial title|formally recognised]] convenor, although Galene Netherwatch has previously been [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_27|endorsed]] as fulfilling the role.

===Judgement 102===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Aristeia Starchaser
* '''Judgement:''' We exalt the actions of Serenus Starsong for creating an arcane projection like no other before. Then with the coven of Storm's End of Urizen, this was cast to reveal the - previously unknown - names of the stars of the Phoenix. This is the first, magnificent step towards understanding the power of the constellations that so many invoke and study. They were the first, and this will forever be an enduring part of all their legacies.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (397-36). The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 401.
* '''Notes:''' [[The Phoenix]] is one of the [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]]. The names of the individual stars that make up the constellation have recently become common knowledge, and the statement draws a link between this event and the divination performed by the Storm's End coven.

===Judgement 103===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Adón i Martán i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' We have the opportunity to rescue slaves rebelling in the city of Marlien in Maracoss, Asavea. We call on corsairs to carry these escapees to safety in the Empire once they reach the Calatropos coast.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (160-10)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to events in the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. It urges Freeborn [[corsair|corsairs]] to come to help evacuate freed slaves from the satrapy of Maracoss - the same satrapy from which both the Free Folk and the Marracossan exiles of Trajadoz hail. It has created an [[opportunity]] for corsairs to [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_interlude#The_Calatropos_Coast_Evacuation|take part]] in the evacuation if they wish.

===Judgement 106===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Vauraus Korppitkotka
* '''Judgement:''' Wintermark have Pride in our scops, not only do they give the worthy their names, they keep alive and share the epic tales of our heroes and history. However, we are not alone, our traditions are important across the Empire, but they have no gathering place where the best can come together to share their great stories. It is our ambition to create a centre of tradition, to which scops and storytellers from across the Empire may travel to share the stories of the Empire. But it must also keep them safe from those who wish them harm. We call on all in Wintermark to share in our ambition and pride, to find a location in which to create a gathering place to bring together all the scops of the Empire in safety and pride.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (283-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Wintermark assembly has sent Eldrid Vestardottir to [[#Judgement 113|enact a mandate]] urging the people of Wintermark to contribute to the construction of a [[Blood will thicken|sacred city]] in [[Bastion]]. With the nation focused on this construction, response to a call to create a centre of tradition for the [[scop|scops]] is likely to be muted at best in the near future.
===Judgement 107===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Caoimhe Tend-Fallen
* '''Judgement:''' Commonwealth paladins have requested true liao to remove a spontaneous aura of great strength. We should determine the truth of their claim that this is an Anarchy aura and not a miraculous aura of a true virtue. If true liao is required to remove it, an Empire priest should be sent to perform this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (97-13)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Commonwealth#Religion|priests]] of the [[Commonwealth]] argue that ''all'' [[aura|auras]], regardless of provenance or specific detail, are a form of oppression that subverts free will.

===Judgement 108===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kennet the Mummer
* '''Judgement:''' Words mean things. To liberate the Barrens would be to free its people from any rule to which they do not consent - ours included. To conquer would be to claim their lands for ourselves and compel them to submit or flee. We shall see now if the Empire makes a liar of Sir Dindrane.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (644-314)
* '''Notes:''' This seems to refer to the [[Not_to_conquer|extremely complicated]] situation in the newest [[Dawn|Dawnish]] territory of [[the Barrens]].
===Judgement 109===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Silk Forteas
* '''Judgement:''' Stories carry the Pride of Navarr The Magpies have been contracted by Rhisiart Dancewalker to discover the whereabouts of the Greensteel Spear of Isaella Thorndance. We encourage all steadings and stridings with stories and records of Isaella's deeds to share them. We are especially interested in the descendants of the Navarri honour guard sent to retrieve her body, and their tale of that day. Through sharing such inspiring tales we hope to gain a better understanding of this exemplar.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (328-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Isaella]] is an exemplar of Courage, perhaps best known in the wider Empire for her role in the death of [[Emperor Nicovar]]. The [[Lepidean Librarian]] has the power to commission [[historical research]] into the lives of [[paragons and exemplars]].
===Judgement 110===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Nisha Strascovich
* '''Judgement:''' The Cold Sun seeks to tear us down. Pride teaches us to uplift each other. Now is the time to celebrate our art and culture, to recognise the Pride to be found around us. Pride is the antithesis of the Cold Sun and can be a bastion against all they stand for. Celebrate our pride in the Empire of those in Anvil and home.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (484-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Isaella|ongoing assault]] of the [[eternal]] known as [[Cold Sun]] on the Empire. The eternals' emissaries appear to particular favour destroying places with a connection to the arts.
===Judgement 116===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Staracsned Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' Rejoice! Rejoice! People of Dawn the Rod of the Sun is returned to us. Lady Nineve Orzel, Ser Lanval van Narood, Peter Fletcher, Myric of House Cordraco, and Enchantress Morien Carsenere undertook epic glorious quest from which only three returned. All their names should be heralded throughout the land and their story told. Rejoice!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (234-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Rod of the Sun was a piece of regalia carried by the pre-Imperial [[Dawn monarchy|monarchs of Dawn]], believed lost during the reign of [[Empress Brannan]].
===Judgement 117===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' The Highborn Assembly recognises the Pride of the Imperial Orcs in their campaign to reclaim items of worth in Necropolis during the last season. Let this show how we reach together, following the example of Kethry and her cultural Pride, in restoring what was lost by the orcs as we embrace our shared past and look forward, one Empire united by the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (362-10)
* '''Notes:''' [[Kethry]] is a renowned [[paragons and exemplars|paragon]] of [[Pride]]. Among other things this statement appears to refer to [[The_cities_and_the_city#Necropolis:_Worth|recent events]] in the [[Necropolis#The_Necropolis|Necropolis]] involving the [[Imperial Orcs]]' quest for items of [[Worth]].
===Judgement 118===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Pacheco "Patches" i Shartha i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise and thank the shared Wisdom and shared Prosperity relating to the Jotun burial mound in Kharaman. General Iron Osric. The Imperial Orcs. Vanama i Perez i Riqueza. Maria i Espin i Guerra. The Freeborn Dhomiros.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (126-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Between_two_mounds#Dust.2C_Flame.2C_and_Glass|raising of a burial mound]] in [[Kahraman]], covering the [[Jotun]] dead who [[Shallows_and_miseries#The_Flames_of_Fort_Braydon|fell during the Battle of Fort Braydon]].
===Judgement 119===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Alvaro i Verena i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' Corsairs, have Courage in your convictions. Do what you feel is right and reject those who would command you who you did not choose to follow. The Freeborn National Assembly support the Corsairs in their endeavour to have their own leader.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (173-0)
===Judgement 122===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Percival Goldvein
* '''Judgement:''' The sept of the Barrens are neccessary ally for the eradication of the Druj, they will never trust us if we call ourselves liberators and act as conquerors. We call for Dawn to show restraint when dealing with the Montanians. There is no glory in the slaughter of the weak.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (82-38)
* '''Notes:''' Addresses the [[Not to conquer|extremely complex situation]] in the Barrens, specifically to the [[Not_to_conquer#Montanians|Montanian]] - humans with a strong [[briar]] lineage connected to the [[Freedom Heresy]] and the [[Malign_spiritual_presences|malign spiritual presence]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|anarchy]]..

===Judgement 123===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Redhand Nirak
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Imperial Orc assembly, are firm believers in Loyalty. Urizen has been thoroughly fucked by the treaty with Kalliact's Apulian Orcs. We encourage all orcs to do whatever they can to: economically, politically, spiritually, and socially to help the Urizeni to get their debt of reckoning from the League. We DO NOT endorse any orc taking military or violent action. The situation is difficult enough without orcs attacking fellow Imperial on either side will only make things worse. "The Prosperous are not selfish; all that is worthwhile is shared." The Urizeni citizens of Spiral deserve the shared benefits of our prosperity where the League has failed to show ANY.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (26-26)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Windfall|recent]] [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment|assignment]] of [[Spiral]] to [[the League]], and the [[A question of loyalty|complex situation]] developing there.

===Judgement 124===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Ironvigil Rikkz the Relentless
* '''Judgement:''' The Change of Doctrine proposed by Clarice Novarion will cause serious thought and concern among the Empire's priests. I remind you all that Imperial Doctrine is a living document that must change and grow as the Empire does. We must not <u>fear</u> change, but embrace <u>Wisdom</u> when we find it. Our Virtue is strong enough.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (235-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[#Judgement_3|judgement]] enacting a [[change of doctrine]] raised this season.
===Judgement 125===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pyetr Srodislar Fyodorov
* '''Judgement:''' True liao is our most important spiritual tool. The structure of power in our great Empire is that of accountability - however the control of this vital good is in the hands of an unelected cabal, the Gatekeepers, whose customs are dedicated by grace, not law. Grace is not a virtue. True liao serves as our closest lifeline to the Labyrinth of Ages, and along with historical research, is what drives our understanding of the Way, the Virtues, and Paragonhood. We have a duty to strive to clarify and crystallise our doctrine towards spiritual truth. This is not possible with true liao in the hands of the Gatekeeper gang. There must be reform! Fellow priesthood, have the Ambition to spiritual truth, the Courage to face it, the Vigilance to not fall to needless dogma - Pride, Prosperity, Loyalty, and greater Wisdom will follow!
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (291-1288)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]] are responsible for determining who receives the majority of the [[liao#True Liao|true liao]] created in the Empire.

===Judgement 128===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Tree of Goatsbridge
* '''Judgement:''' The Priests of the Marches state that the Landskeepers and Sadogua, Brother of Wizards, are allies and that he, and his heralds, are welcome in the Marches, and that no Marcher Wizards need to worry about speaking to him or accepting his boons.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (100-40)
* '''Notes:''' [[Sadogua]], also known as the Brother of Wizards, is an [[eternal]] of the Night realm concerned with magic and magicians.
===Judgement 129===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Konstantin Rabovich Bolotnikov
* '''Judgement:''' This assembly endorses LINDIR THORNHEART as Champion of Vigilance, despite the unfortunate circumstances surrounding their appointment.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (99-64)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Champion of Vigilance]], [[appointment|appointed]] by the assembly during the [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_73|Summer Solstice]].
===Judgement 130===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Aemon
* '''Judgement:''' Highguard! Vigilance teaches us to seek out falsehood and expose the truth! Too long have we been looking outwards, focusing on the heterodoxies of others that we have neglected to assess our own cultural challenges! In our complacency, we allow our lingering attachment to Purity to let us believe our lineaged siblings to be inherently distrusted as unwitting agents of the Realms. This lacks Loyalty, Pride, Vigilance, and Wisdom. Past life visions have revealed to us that lineaged folk of today were unlineaged in the past, and vice versa, with no known correlation between virtuous and unvirtuous behaviour. Therefore, if a human spirit looks the same and remains the same through reincarnation, we must conclude in Courage and Wisdom that lineage is a condition of the body, not the Spirit.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (350-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement refers to the changing attitudes towards [[lineage]] among the [[Highguard|highborn]].
===Judgement 131===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Landine du Lac
* '''Judgement:''' Vigilance teaches us not to only prepare for, but to also thwart the malice of our enemies. While our people Prosper, our Ambition to defeat the Druj remaining within and threatening our new borders.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (214-10)
===Judgement 132===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Saqui Heroes' Champion
* '''Judgement:''' The heralds of Cold Sun have poured into our homes, our mountains and marshes. They seek to destroy art, beauty, and mysteries. Their force is strong, their power destructive. The Wise to to take refuge in the fortresses raised by magic. The Courageous garrison the beacons to protect our nation. The storm can never break us, and neither will Cold Sun.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (262-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Cold Sun]] is an [[eternal]] of the Day Realm whose soldiers are engaged in a [[To_the_last_syllable|military campaign]] across the Empire, which appears to some to be prioritising the destruction of places with a connection to the arts. It urges those prepared to fight the invaders to deploy in support of the Beacons of WIntermark - unique [[fortification|fortifications]] in [[Hahnmark]] and [[Kallavesa]].
===Judgement 133===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Mauriac
* '''Judgement:''' Our forces in the Barrens have a stated goal that they are not there as conquerors, but to liberate the people there from the tyranny of the Druj. It is unfortunate that the Barrens contains heretics who hold Freedom to be a virtue; freedom is a quality which can be very fine in moderation but horrifically destructive if taken to excess. The clarity of wisdom teaches us that to help others to gain insight may be the most effective way to use your knowledge. We must not make hypocrites of ourselves through heavy-handed tactics, but it falls upon to educate the Barrens to the truth of the Way and spread doctrinal illumination.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (236-56)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[Not to conquer|extremely complex situation]] in the Barrens, specifically to the [[Not_to_conquer#Montanians|Montanian]] - humans with a strong [[briar]] lineage connected to the [[Freedom Heresy]] and the [[Malign_spiritual_presences|malign spiritual presence]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|anarchy]]..

===Judgement 136===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Delmara i Ruiloba i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' As the treaty with the Grendel comes to an end, it is important to note Feroz is an integral part of the Brass Coast, and with its dust coating our feet we will go to reclaim it.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (175-10)
* '''Notes:''' During the Winter Solstice 383YE, the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_66|enacted a mandate]] that urged their people to abandon [[Feroz]]. This lead to an [[opportunity]] to [[Struggle with the sea|evacuate]] the territory under the nose of the [[Grendel]] governor. The mandate meant accepting that the Freeborn do not expect the territory to be recovered any time soon, making it unlikely that statements by the assembly relating to recovering the territory will lead to further opportunities.
===Judgement 137===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Vaukahainen Saltfoot
* '''Judgement:''' The proud uplift and inspire, they do not denigrate others. The Jotun have shown great pride in respecting the dead of the Empire, and the sacred resting places of Wintermark heroes. We encourage those fighting the Jotun to respect their dead in turn, and leave their sacred sites undesecrated. The wealth of the Jotun ancestors is <u>not</u> found in their grave goods, but in their legacy and inspiration.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1456-107)
* '''Notes:''' This statement appears to related to [[Between two mounds|Jotun concerns]] regarding theft from their burial sites by Imperial soldiers, especially the Freeborn.
===Judgement 140===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Eskah Solestride
* '''Judgement:''' The Dance of Blood was a loyal and vigilant aspect of Navarr's culture and military. They were lost in Liathaven against a horde of Jotun, their vigilance never wavered and they remained loyal to their oaths to the end. We would encourage those Navarri who feel the call of the Dance of Blood to embrace its merciless Doctrine and work to restore its legacy.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (88-142)
* '''Notes:''' The Dance of Blood were a Navarr [[Imperial army|army]] disbanded while fighting the [[Jotun]] in 245YE. They were infamous for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel|cruel]] tactics, easily a match for those of the [[Iron Helms]].

===Judgement 141===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Reynard Forester
* '''Judgement:''' We, the people of Dawn throw open the doors of our houses to the Free Folk. In prosperity, let us share our homes with our cousins from the land of Asavea. In Courage, let us do as Ashwine did, find the innocent a home after their virtuous pilgrimage. Let them find GLORY.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (192-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Free Folk are former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves who practice the Way, albeit in an unfamiliar fashion. Many have spent the last year engaged in a [[Folklore#The_Free_Folk_Pilgrimage|pilgrimage to inspirational locations]] across the Empire, with the support of the [[Imperial Synod]]. The [[Lady of the Proffered Hand]], and the people of [[Dawn]] were first to welcome them to the Empire following their liberation.
===Judgement 142===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lepidina
* '''Judgement:''' We invite the Urizeni priests and their congregations to join us in dialogue with the League bishops and the Apulians to further our collective understanding of the Way, and lift each other up in virtue. Much as Temeschwar acknowledges its Varushkan heritage, so the city of Apulian should also embrace the existing Urizeni culture now the League has committed to a Reckoning.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (263-10)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[A_question_of_loyalty|ongoing unfolding situation]] in Spiral between the [[Urizen|Urizeni]] and [[the League]].
===Judgement 146===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Anastasiya Lukashovna Volkov
* '''Judgement:''' The Loyalty assembly recognises it owes proof of word and deed to deliver upon the reckoning between the Urizen people and the League regarding Spiral. The Loyalty assembly urges all parties to negotiate in good spirit to find a non-violent solution. Let us work together to reforge our bonds.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (265-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[A_question_of_loyalty|ongoing unfolding situation]] in Spiral between [[the League]] and [[Urizen|Urizeni]].
===Judgement 147===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Jacob Talbot
* '''Judgement:''' We call upon all Marchers to shun and cease the sale and supply of food to Urizen for the loss of Prosperous crops caused by cursing. The message we wish to send above all is that our means to feed the Empire and our own Marcher families has suffered too much. and that this animosity regarding rituals cast by Urizeni magicians should end. It is also our hope that greater animosities between our two nations will end with this statement, whether our citizens attend Anvil or not.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (20-166)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to [[the Marches|Marcher]] unhappiness around powerful enchantments that have [[Resonance_and_mitigation#Thresh_the_Fields|damaged crops and farms]] across the Empire.

===Judgement 148===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Friar Graffanner
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Marcher National Assembly, call upon our fleet captains, to participate in the multinational opportunity to provide safe passage to those fleeing slavery in Maracossa.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (192-0). The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 193.
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to events in the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. It urges [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[fleet|ship-captains]] to come to help evacuate freed slaves from the satrapy of Maracoss - the same satrapy from which both the Free Folk and the Marracossan exiles of Trajadoz hail. It has created an [[opportunity]] for corsairs to [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_interlude#The_Calatropos_Coast_Evacuation|take part]] in the evacuation if they wish.
===Judgement 150===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Martha i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' We the national assembly of the Freeborn and the Imperial Fleetmaster charge all Freeborn fleet owners to raid shipping of those enemy nations that seek to do us harm in the Bay of Catazar. "When the peace treaty ends make them remember these waters are ours!"
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (167-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the end of the [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE|peace treaty]] with the [[Grendel]], and the [[Ship_to_wreck#Unleashed|raids]] erupting in its wake.

===Judgement 151===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Paulus Adelaar von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Ambitious citizens! The Empire is engaged in the great endeavour of our age: expanding our borders and integrating new and foreign peoples without recourse to the barbarity of slavery. Apulian Questioners (their priests) wish to understand how to wield the powers of the Synod! We, the following Bishops of the League have the Ambition to show them how a Bishop does this. Paulus Adelaar van Holberg - Lia Adelaar von Holberg - Sebastiano di Spiral - Corrado de Regario - Beno di Carva (sadly unable to attend Anvil).
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (220-15)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to questions of the [[Chords|religious beliefs]] of the Apulian Orcs of [[the League]].

===Judgement 152===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Anatoly Vassian Tatishchev
* '''Judgement:''' The Varushkan national assembly calls upon fleet owners of the nation to prepare for malice, yet thwart malice before it strikes against you. War is coming. Raise every sail against our foes.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (302-0)
===Judgement 153===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Vaclav Mladenovich Kosti
* '''Judgement:''' The Varushkan national assembly invites Skywise Gralka and the Sunstorm sept to visit the Palace of Orieb in order to seek secrets. May our allies and friend be welcome to seek to fulfil their ambition and contribute to our Wisdom.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (302-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Ossium#The_Palace_of_Orieb|Palace of Orieb]] in [[Ossium]] is believed to have been the residence of one of the [[Druj_lore#Buruk_Tepel|Buruk Tepel]]. It is overseen by the [[Apothecary of Orieb]].

===Judgement 154===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Marzanna
* '''Judgement:''' We the priests of Varushka call upon the builders of the Deep Chamber to dedicate to wisdom. We wish for priests of wisdom and wardens to go and ensure their safe return from the mines.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (292-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to the [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_the_Deep_Place|construction of an underground chamber]] in the Mountains of Brez by the [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Speakers_of_the_Void|cabalists of Void]], commissioned by the [[Imperial Senate]].
===Judgement 155===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' In Varushka we respect our Elders! The Northern Eagle are the oldest army in Varushka and they have served us loyally for as long as they have existed. We ask that Varushkans have Pride in the Northern Eagle and support them. Pride, Cousins.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (302-0), with Primacy
===Judgement 156===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Maja Świętosława Przewałski
* '''Judgement:''' We the priests of Varushka urge the wardens to show vigilance and to strengthen the wards of the roads and borders of Tolvoli and around Tolvoli to prepare for the malice of the dubik being fed. The Wardens should also seek to thwart malice before it strikes against us and seek our signs and evidence of <u>the</u> dubik with the aid of Spring magicians and Volhovs, to make a bargain to contain the growing dubik numbers.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (302-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to the establishment of the slaughterhouse at Tolvoli, the dubik at the old [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Heart_of_the_Tempest|Heart of the Tempest]], and the role of the [[Tolvoli Butcher]].
===Judgement 157===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ira of the Flame Beneath the Earth
* '''Judgement:''' We call to those who have served in Highguard armies: the Unbound Steel Hall of Lost Chapters has been taken from us by the Cold Sun and our proud history desecrated. Now, they gather in Bastion. Bastion must be defended. Bring the guardian, the cataphract, the unconquered. Don your armour once more. General Asenath raises the hallowed banner of the Thundering Tide. Bearing a miracle of Courage, General Asenath does not fear to act, and neither should we. Loyalty demands that we strike quickly so our forces may go on to help protect the lands of our sibling nations once our home is safe. You have served before, we ask that you serve again.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (570-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Cold Sun]] is an [[eternal]] of the Day Realm whose soldiers are engaged in a [[To_the_last_syllable|military campaign]] across the Empire. The [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_.28Defunct.29|Thundering Tide]] were a Highborn army disbanded during the reign of [[Empress Mariika]].
===Judgement 158===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Vasilmir Radovanovna Esskivic
* '''Judgement:''' Despise the thieving bandit. Orathator of the Hourglass engages in prosperous trade with Varushka. We ask Wardens of Varushka to protect their caravans, and ensure their goods do not fall into the hands of those who did not earn them.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (290-12), with Primacy.
* '''Notes:''' Orathator of the Hourglass is a [[Thule]] warlock who leads a [[Pride_and_prejudice#Masks_of_the_Trees_and_Hills|group of traders]] active across [[Varushka]].
===Judgement 159===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Solas of the Waxing Sun
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise the need to investigate the motivations behind casting Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths and the benefits of being judged by our peers in this matter. We encourage members of <u>other nations</u> to bring those responsible for the casting to inquisition before the virtue assemblies.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (262-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Resonance and mitigation|controversial]] performance of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths]] ritual, whose recent performance has had both [[Shining like fire|benefits]] and [[To the last syllable|undeniable downsides]].

===Judgement 160===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lochias
* '''Judgement:''' The Sentinels of Urizen are rightly proud of their martial arete. We laud and exalt the Courage and Vigilance of the soldiers of the Citadel Guard and the captains of independent units who have kept their long watch on our borders. But Loyalty should not mean blind obedience. Even the strongest may err, but deceivers will lie again.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (204-10)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Citadel Guard]] are the army of [[Urizen]], primarily composed of [[Sentinel|sentinels]].
===Judgement 163===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' Inspired by recent exchanges between Highguard and the Imperial Orcs, we the Highborn national assembly offer Peerless Kinship to aid the Imperial Orcs how they see fit. Let us forge strong ties, and step boldly into the future.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (504-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|Peerless kinship]] allows the [[Highguard|Highborn]] people to support one of their sibling nations in the coming months. See also [[#Judgement 192|Judgement 192]].
===Judgement 165===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ahraz i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' The election of the Senators is an important source of income to fund the projects of the Brass Coat. If you are paid to not place a bid you should show your Pride and declare it to the egregore and share a part of that money with them. If someone not of the Freeborn pays you to bid, either to ensure a candidate is elected or to prevent someone to be elected, you should declare this to the egregore. Show your courage and pride and deal with the elections openly and honestly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (161-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership#Leading a territory|appointment]] of [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] [[Senator|senators]].
===Judgement 166===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Travid Longest Path
* '''Judgement:''' Prosperity compels us to strive and toil and enjoy the fruits of our labour. Lindir Thornheart and Oisean Streamwalker have worked tirelessly to fund the ilium needed to create an artefact to trade for the Shield of Vigilance from a 1 ring start. We wish to reward them with recognition from the assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (125-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Shield of Vigilance likely refers to ''Bawn-Watch'' the [[Magic_items#Artefacts|artefact]] [[Pilgrim's Shield]] originally created by Ezkiah the Benefactor for the [[Champion of Vigilance]]. It is currently believed to be in the possession of the [[Axos|Axou]] scholar [[Ten_travellers_tales#Theodosia_of_Ipotavo|Theodosia of Ipotavo]].
===Judgement 167===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eurybia Melampus di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' The Sword Scholars have demonstrated their Loyalty to the Empire by casting off Sulemaine. We the Loyalty assembly support this endeavour. They have identified and followed their loyalties within their hearts. Therefore will will raise their efforts up rather than tear them down.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (115-10)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.
===Judgement 168===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Hembeneth i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' During the Grendel treaty we had the time to rebuild and prepare. Now the treaty has ended we call on all citizens to route out the Grendel spies and be Vigilant of the threats that come from all around. Have Courage to oppose them when they enter our land and the Loyalty to aid our armies and feed our Corsairs who fight on our behalf with virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (169-0)
===Judgement 169===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Clytemnestra
* '''Judgement:''' The Sword Scholars of the Empire have chosen to put Sulemaine behind us. Now we will define what Sword Scholars are in the modern world. We will examine and debate our teachings and discard any that fall short. We will examine our role in the Empire, and the ways we can challenge, aid and defend the Empire, and those who seek to join the Empire and the Way. We will seek to realise our ambition to spread our teachings and become a sodality. As we have changed the Empire the Empire has changed us.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (242-10)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.

===Judgement 172===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Kosmas o Voskos of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' The Sword Scholars have examined their history and virtue, and have chosen to learn and change. They have chosen to leave Sulemaine behind and forge a new path. The Way assembly recognises this important step on their path of virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (85-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.
===Judgement 173===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Asier i Elia i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' We welcome the refugees from the Temple of the Way in Nemoria. We would offer them refuge at the Hand of Guerra in order to share knowledge of Virtue and the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (169-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to refer to the [[Ten_travellers_tales#Last_of_the_Faithful|Asavean pilgrims]] who visited [[Anvil]] during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 174===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Eli of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' We welcome the refugees from the Temple of the Way in Nemoria. We would offer them refuge at the Abbey of Reconciliation in order to share knowledge of virtue and the Way,
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (508-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to refer to the [[Ten_travellers_tales#Last_of_the_Faithful|Asavean pilgrims]] who visited [[Anvil]] during the Autumn Equinox.

===Judgement 176===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Sister Meredith
* '''Judgement:''' The pursuit of virtue supersedes doctrine and the Law. If the Mournwold Orcs are willing to commit to living the life that they are living to the full extent of virtue and greatness, this assembly will welcome and defend them.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Mournwold Orcs]], and supports the mandate enacted in [[#Judgement 199|Judgement 199]].
===Judgement 180===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Father Edmund
* '''Judgement:''' Bushel Sykes betrayed his oath as an Imperial citizen, and yet his soul bore a spontaneous true aura of Loyalty. He knew what commanded his heart's devotion above all else, and he willingly paid the price for that. We recognise Bushel Sykes' Loyalty and his Virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (282-26)
* '''Notes:''' This statement appears to concern the death of [[When_Spring_comes#The_Death_of_Bushel_Sykes|Bushel Sykes]], the controversial poacher.
===Judgement 181===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Idanach Listing Beacon
* '''Judgement:''' True liao is a substance of great sanctity and great importance to the Way. it is vital that a suitably qualified body of priests oversee its distribution. In response to Pyetr Fyodorov in Judgement 125 we say that this is not the time to abolish the Gatekeepers. We instead encourage citizens to learn about the Gatekeepers and other ways whereby true liao is distributed. If the existing processes are unsatisfactory, they should offer <u>concrete</u> proposals for change.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1165-64)
* '''Notes:''' This statement refers to [[#Judgement 125|Judgement 125]], relating to the status of the [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]].

===Judgement 182===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Isaac of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement:''' Amongst the best of us there is still vice. Amongst the worst of us there is still virtue. No soul is beyond redemption. Each passage through the Labyrinth brings us forth anew. We call upon the magistrates to give those guilty of grave crimes the chance to (?) themselves in virtue against the Cold Sun until their embrace to the Labyrinth. The defence of Bastion is a defence of the Way!!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (480-16). The Greater Majority threshold for this judgement was 474.
===Judgement 183===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Lia Adelaar von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' We invite League Bishops and Scholars to join in dialogue with Urizeni priests and mages loyal to the Empire and our Apulian brethren, to further our understanding of the Way and lift us all up in Virtue. Much as Temeschwar acknowledges its Varushkan heritage, so the city of Apulian should include the best of Urizeni culture, once the threat of rebellion has passed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (280-0), the greater majority threshold for this judgement was 273.
* '''Notes:''' * '''Notes:''' This relates to the complex situation in [[Spiral]] since it [[Windfall|became part of]] [[the League]], as well as to the questions raised by the [[Chords|spiritual beliefs]] of the Apulian Orcs.
===Judgement 184===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Rowen Erdtree
* '''Judgement:''' Skywise Gralka's association with the Cold Sun and the Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths ritual was a contribution towards an inherently ambitious action. No matter your opinion of orcs, Skywise Gralka should not be punished for their contribution towards what was a damaging, but ambitious endeavour.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (124-32)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[Resonance and mitigation|discussion]] around the controversial recent performance of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths]] ritual.
===Judgement 188===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' In the spirit of VIgilance, be aware that a threat is coming to the Coast. Now is the time to prepare with Wisdom, but in Pride remember to uplift our fellows. Support each other, support your armies and privateers, remember that resources unspent only go to waste - offer your hospitality to those that protect our lands and we are all sure to benefit. We have always had the Ambition of reclaiming what was ours, but what remains is in danger and protecting that is also part of that process. Take heart, it will not be easy, cleave to your courage and what loyalties you hold dear. Let virtue guide you in tumultuous times. '''Batten down the hatches in face of the storm'''.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (129-0)
===Judgement 190===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orcs
* '''Raised By:''' Skywise Gralka
* '''Judgement:''' Listen to me Gralka as I write these words in destiny. No nation knows themselves as Imperial human in this Empire, there is only one to claim its identity as Imperial Orc. A legacy to the architects of the plan and those who fought for us at journeys start. A new saga begins so hence forth we the Imperial orcs also claim the name UNSHACKLED for our nation - with all our worth.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority, with Primacy
===Judgement 191===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Bloodcrow Knott
* '''Judgement:''' The Mourn Orcs are Marchers, there is no doubt of this and denying such is false. Further, the matter of Orc souls should be left to Orcs. We encourage the Humans of the Empire to give our new siblings time while we guide them in the ways of the Abyss and Ancestors. Let us have these conversations of our souls together. We encourage the Marchers to ad us in finding proof and understanding their new citizens.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (78-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Mournwold Orcs]], and their status in [[the Marches]], and seems to support the mandate enacted in [[#Judgement 199|Judgement 199]].
===Judgement 192===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Ashborn Atla
* '''Judgement:''' We the Unshackled accept the peerless kinship of the Highguard. May Sunstorm, Sannite, Tamazi, Ethengraw, Illaraum, Yerende, and other newly come work together in virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (??) with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|Peerless kinship]] allows the [[Highguard|Highborn]] people to support one of their sibling nations in the coming months, in the way that nation requests. See also [[#Judgement 163|Judgement 163]].
===Judgement 195===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Darian Numbers
* '''Judgement:''' We encourage the Marchers and the Mournwold Orcs to enter into debate and discussion around our shared beliefs and where those beliefs differ. We urge the Marchers to show understanding and lenience as they guide the Mournwold orcs on their journey to understanding the Way. As called for in statement 191 give them time.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (8-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Mournwold Orcs]], and their status in [[the Marches]], and seems to support the mandate enacted in [[#Judgement 199|Judgement 199]].
===Judgement 196===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Galen Embercast
* '''Judgement:''' The Council of Nine directs the Silent Bell to investigate the location of the Silent Bell of Brian Heathford lost 290YE in Kingstoke, Upwold to Agramant inspired sorcerers.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (8-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement asks the [[Silent_Bell_(Sodality)|Silent Bell]] to seek out a missing object. The Silent Bell are a sodality dedicated to Vigilance, keeping a careful watch for threats to the Empire from within and without; their expertise in tracking down [[magic items]], and indeed their interest in doing so, is extremely limited.

===Judgement 197===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Viviane de Courdefer
* '''Judgement:''' The Change of Doctrine (Judgement 3 this season) proposed by Clarice Novarion will cause serious thought and concern among the Empire's priests. We remind you all, with thanks to ??? Rikke (Judgement 124 this season), that Doctrine is a living document that must change and grow as the Empire does. We must not <u>fear</u> change, but embrace virtue where we find it.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (8-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:'''This statement refers to the [[change of doctrine]] proposed by Clarice Novarion and upheld by the General Assembly; see [[#Judgement 3|Judgement 3]].

===Judgement 200===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Rhubarb Ironwood
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise the vigilance of Jonathan Piper of Cockscroft for raising hue and cry about the threat of hostile heralds across the Marches. We exalt him!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' During the Summer Solstice, Jonathan Piper raised a [[statement of principle]] [[When_Spring_comes#Stormy_Monday_.28Mitwold.29|warning the people]] of [[Mitwold]] of the threat posed by heralds of [[Siakha]] (see [[#385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement 156|Judgement 156]]).

===Judgement 201===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Rosie of Goatsbridge
* '''Judgement:''' The Marcher Assembly recognises the Vigilance and Courage of those Urizeni who stood against so many of their own nation, warning them of the dangers of casting Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths. These include Tiberius Cascade, and also the Academy of the Southern Shore. Those they <u>are</u> good neighbours.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[When_Spring_comes#Stormy_Monday_.28Mitwold.29|ongoing controversy]] around the recent performance of [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths]].
==Mandate==
===Judgement 11===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Aurum of the Nightingale Temple
* '''Judgement:''' The virtuous build up their fellows, they do not tear them down. Blue flowers bloom in Spiral, and if we are to hold true to the promise of this Empire we cannot laud one while cutting down another. Should the Empire shed Urizeni blood in this matter, it will prove they value thieves and slavers over virtuous citizens. It will prove they are unworthy of the oldest nation. We send Aurum of the Nightingale Temple with 25 doses of liao to encourage all Urizeni to stand in defiance of an Empire that treats our lives as an inconvenience, should they dare to enact violence against our people. Loyalty demands, and we cannot condemn the people of Spiral for having answered.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (267-75)
* '''Enacted:''' If the Empire sends an army to suppress the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|Urizeni rebels]] in Spiral at any point before the start of the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the rebellion will spread to the rest of Urizen. Spires will take up arms and declare their support for the rebellion, and opposition to the Empire. As detailed in the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|A question of loyalty]] wind of fortune.
===Judgement 26===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Harwyn Eternal
* '''Judgement:''' The virtuous inspire others to greatness. We send Neala Blackhawk with 75 doses of liao to urge priest to engage with the Great Forest Orcs to learn their ways to discover if we might bring them to the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (468-63)
* '''Enacted:''' Sends Pride assembly priests to visit with the [[Great Forest Orcs]] and learn about their religion. As detailed in the [[Tooth_by_tooth#Pride_and_Prejudice|Tooth by tooth]] Wind of Fortune.
===Judgement 33===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Callista
* '''Judgement:''' The truly virtuous are loyal even through hardship and misfortune. We send Callista of the Dark Shard with 25 doses of liao to encourage the remaining Urizeni living in Spiral to take up arms and defend their homes. Loyalty is not displayed by words or deeds alone, but by unity of both.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (30-379)
* '''Notes:''' Had it been enacted, this mandate would have spread the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|Urizeni rebellion]] across the whole of Spiral. As detailed in the [[A question of loyalty]] wind of fortune.

===Judgement 40===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' Failure is the death of greatness, We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 75 doses of liao to encourage sword scholars throughout Urizen to separate the woman from the teachings and no longer venerate the actions of Sulemaine. Let us find new questions to ask.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (284-10)
* '''Enacted:''' This mandate [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|sunders the sword scholars]], shattering the [[Arbiter_of_the_Four_Winds#Temple_of_the_Four_Winds|Temple of the Four Winds]]. It also damages the moral authority of the Urizen assembly, in light of their previous [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_100|endorsement of Sulemaine]], meaning every Urizen [[congregation]] receives 2 fewer votes and 1 fewer liao. As detailed in the [[A wisdom of questions|A wisdom of questions]] wind of fortune.
===Judgement 57===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Enis RootBloom
* '''Judgement:''' For too long the peoples of Navarr have struggled to claim the entirety of their homes. Let us not sit idle whilst those who have stood with us suffer a similar fate. We send Enis Rootbloom with 50 doses of liao to encourage the people of Navarr to help the Great Forest Orcs in the fight to reclaim the Heart of Peytaht.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (355-0)
* '''Enacted:''' Any Navarr army in [[the Barrens]] can support the Spears of the Pines and help them conquer the [[The_Barrens#Heart_of_Peytaht|Heart of Peytaht]], provided the [[general]] of the army takes an attacking order explicitly targetting the Heart of Peytaht and mention they are supporting the Great Forest Orcs. If this happens the Great Forest Orcs will claim the region and it will not require concedence by the Senate. It will also put to rest any concerns the Great Forest Orcs have expressed around the Navarr reticence to fight in the Barrens. As detailed in the [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] wind of fortune. See also [[#Judgement_149|Judgement 149]].

===Judgement 63===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Maria i Espiri i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' The National Assembly have already spoken, the Virtuous inspire others. We raised the burial mound to honour the Courage of the Jotun, and now they wish to raise a monument to the Virtue and honour of the Freeborn who defeated them - a permanent reminder of the strength of the Freeborn. We send Maria i Espiri i Guerra with ten thrones to urge the families of Kahraman to ensure the Jotun are escorted only to the burial mound to raise the monument, and then safely returned to their own lands.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (175-0)
* '''Enacted:''' This mandate sees the visiting ghodi protected by an honour guard of Freeborn which will further demonstrate the worth of the Brass Coast to the Jotun. The [[Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] will not be able to take advantage of the opportunity to capture the ghodi and mithril. As detailed in the [[Between_two_mounds#An_Enduring_Flame|Between two mounds]] wind of fortune

===Judgement 69===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Exarch Luke of the Navigators of Virtue
* '''Judgement:''' Let every word you speak carry meaning. We send Exarch Luke of the Navigators of Virtue with 25 doses of liao to persuade the soldiers of the Valiant Pegasus to seek out orc septs oppressed by the Druj. Together we will find the right question.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (437-0)
* '''Enacted:''' The Valiant Pegasus will strive to minimise casualties when fighting in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]], and open channels of communication with the septs while fighting there. As detailed in the [[The_cities_and_the_city#Leen_:_A_Road_to_Liberation|The cities and the city]] wind of fortune.

===Judgement 73===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Ser Dindrane
* '''Judgement:''' Test what you learn; only fools accept hearsay as truth. We send Ser Dindrane with 50 doses of liao to urge the faithful to visit Laroc to share in the lessons imparted there. Nothing is more virtuous than success.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (74-192)

===Judgement 113===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Eldrid Vestardottir
* '''Judgement:''' Consequences are the price of Ambition. We send Eldrid Vestardottir with 50 doses of liao to urge every citizen to contribute what resources they can spare to support the creation of a new Holy City at Bastion. Let our virtue echo through history for a thousand years.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (284-0)
* '''Enacted.''' Wintermark will find what white granite and funds they can spare and donate them to support the construction of a [[Blood will thicken|sacred city]] in [[Bastion]]. Every Wintermark territory that is affected by this mandate will donate 4 wains of white granite and 8 crowns to support the commission each season for the next year. For the same period it is impossible to use a mandate to urge Wintermark to support another commission or similar project that needed help. Any mandate in the Imperial Synod that urged Wintermark citizens to provide financial support to a different commission or cause will fail to affect the nation. Likewise any statement of principle in their national assembly that asks the nation for their support in this way will fail to produce a mandate. As detailed in the [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|Blood will thicken]] Wind of Fortune.

===Judgement 134===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Corey Wayfarer
* '''Judgement:''' Consequences are the price of Ambition. We send Fintan Founders-Dance with 50 doses of liao to urge every citizen to contribute what resources they can spare to support the creation of a new Holy City at Bastion. Let our virtue echo through history for a thousand years..
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (276-26) the Greater Majority threshold for this judgement was 276.
*'''Enacted.''' Navarr will find what [[white granite]] and funds they can spare and donate them to support the construction of a [[Blood will thicken|sacred city]] in [[Bastion]]. Every Navarr territory that is affected by this mandate will donate 12 wains of white granite and 24 crowns to support the commission each season for the next year. For the same period it is impossible to use a mandate to urge the Navarr to support another commission or similar project that needed help. Any mandate in the Imperial Synod that urged Navarr to provide financial support to a different commission or cause will fail to affect the nation. Likewise any statement of principle in their national assembly that asks the nation for their support in this way will fail to produce a mandate. As detailed in the [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|Blood will thicken]] Wind of Fortune.

===Judgement 149===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Veikko Bondforger
* '''Judgement:''' No priest can tell you what you are loyal to, but we can guide you on that path. Under the Eyes of Loyalty we send Veikko Bondforger to support the following mandate: For too long the people of Navarr have struggled to claim the entirety of their homes. Let us not sit idle while those who have stood with us suffer a similar fate. We send our priest with 50 doses of liao to encourage the people of Navarr to help the Great Forest Orcs in the fight to reclaim the Heart of Peytaht.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (279-0)
* '''Enacted:''' The [[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]] will support [[#Judgement 57|Judgement 57]].

===Judgement 170===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orcs
* '''Raised By:''' Bleakshield Zorra
* '''Judgement:''' If we are to be liberators not conquerors, then our pride must be conveyed by actions not by words alone. We send Skywise Rykana with 75 Thrones to provide food and other vital supplies to the Rahvin in Bitter Strand. All that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (78-0)
* '''Enacted:''' Imperial Orcs priests gather food and other vital supplies, and deliver them to the Rahvin. Their largesse will improve the sept's attitude, causing the Rahvin to become more well disposed to the Imperial Orcs, prepared to speak with them directly and securing their ability to negotiate with the orcs on behalf of the Empire. As detailed in the [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Rahvin|Not to conquer]] wind of fortune.

===Judgement 199===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Mel Bleak
* '''Judgement:''' Those orcs who once were thralls of the Jotun are Marchers. They've been patient, and we won't keep them waiting while the rest of the Empire argues about what we know to be true. We send Sister Meredith with the egregore Jack to welcome them into our nation, and we will look to the paperwork later.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0)
* '''Enacted:''' With this risky mandate, the Marcher assembly makes it clear to their own people, and to the Empire, that the [[Mournwold Orcs]] should be Marchers. As detailed in the [[When_Spring_comes#The_Field_.28Mournwold_Orcs.29|When Spring comes]] Wind of Fortune
==Evaluation==
The Synod made the following judgements of [[excommunication]], [[inquisition]], [[revocation]], and [[sanction]].
===Judgement 17===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' In Summer 385YE I called Gisli the Provider to Inquisition. In enquired about his motives, his reasons for his prosperous acts and found the cause of his work to be a deep seated Virtue. Not only does he act most Prosperously, he does not shirk the Pride he is owed for his great work. Gisli fully funded the recent Empire-wide Autumn ritual, bringing prosperity to all, and has donated hundreds of thrones worth of money and resources to the Academy - in their words, he has saved the lives of countless children. He has been a fervent fighter against slavery, going on both major raids, and he single handedly raised enough money for the Thule to feed their people, avoiding untold thousands of orcs starving.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (55-10)
===Judgement 18===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Finna i Fijadoz, the High Exorcist, to Inquisition. This will occur at 4pm on the Saturday of this summit, Autumn 385, at the Ashwood Emporium (also known as Iniska's Pantry, or Kaelynn's Apothetea). I wish to examine her actions as both an elected representative of the Imperial Synod, but also as an Inspiration to those groups of Exorcists bound together in the image of the Justicars. Any may attend, priority given to Spiritwoods members.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (75-0)
===Judgement 20===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call to inquisition Reidarr "Blood-letter" of Byrchenhal at 3pm in the Byrchenhal camp. Saavi "Heroes Champion" has agreed to assist me to advise on winterfolk traditions. Reidarr has performed long service to the Empire's military forces and strategy, lead hundreds of people through the sentinel gate and has fought each of the enemies of the Empire. Now, I call him to question on his virtue. May the wise spider guide me to the truth of his virtue and story.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1118-30)

===Judgement 21===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Morwenna Withered Rose
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Ser Claudia Lovelorn to stand for Inquisition to explore the nature of her duty as the Keeper of Tharim's Throne. The inquisition will be held at 5.30pm on Saturday at the Hall of Voices in Urizen. The imquisiting priest is Morwenna Withered Rose. May all our vows be witnesses in light and blood.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (31-0)
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Claudia Lovelorn. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 22===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Aethelric the Grounded
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' During the Summer Summit of 385YE, there was an expedition to Madruga to recover the only known survivor of the Dry Patrician blight. Said survivor was afflicted with an incurable sickness that was transforming him into something unknown - possibly a husk variant. I call Lev Unbound of Highguard to Inquisition to explain his reasoning for letting this survivor go (to effectively roam Casinea unsupported and unguarded) rather than exploring other alternatives. The inquisition will take place on the Saturday of the Autumn Summit 385YE at 4,00 pm. We shall meet at the hub and possibly adjourn elsewhere to conduct the proceedings.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld; Withdrawn
===Judgement 23===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Through his inquisition at the Summer Solstice, general Stanley of Chalkdown has shown Pride in his land, his duty to the Empire, and his role as general. Joining the Marches at the liberation of Mournwold, he has ever strived for excellence in that which he is Proud - waging war upon the Jotun through the Bregasland campaign as soldier adjutant and general, with unwavering dedication. He has always been a Marcher - for a moment, not an Imperial one, but shows Pride in all things, and Loyalty to great ones.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (259-0)
===Judgement 24===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Following her claims at the Summer Solstice before the Pride assembly, I call Skywise Gralka, Archmage of Day, to inquisition. To claim signs of the Exemplar is to convey by words alone - let us discuss this further. First Legion tent, Imperial Orc camp, midnight, Friday of the Autumn Equinox.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (117-0)
* '''Notes:''' There were two other judgements of inquisition relating to Skywise Gralka. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.

===Judgement 27===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Skywise Gralka to Inquisition on Saturday at Midnight to occur in Wintermark. This concerns a list of signs of possible exemplarhood and I wish to talk to her with any priest friendly to me welcome along. This will <u>not</u> concern Cold Sun business as a primary focus. Run your own inquisition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (202-0)
* '''Notes:''' There were two other judgements of inquisition relating to Skywise Gralka. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 34===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kasjay
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I Kasjay call Veiko to inquisition to discuss his virtue in dealing with Spiral. It will be at 19:00 in his hall.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (443-27)
===Judgement 39===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Wayfarer Abraham
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Sufyan i Zuhri i Erigo for inquisition for the inquisition he held on Wildfire of Balthazar's Vineyard. An inquisition is meant to involve probing questions to discover the truth behind the actions and motives of the accused. Some concerns have been raised that the inquisition of Wildfire was not done with the aim of finding the truth and motives of the virtue of this brothers actions but instead this inquisition was raised with Sufyan i Zuhri i Erigo mind already decided and little concern for new wisdom. Wisdom knows all knowledge is incomplete. So, I call Sufyan iZuhri i Erigo to inquisition at 3.30 pm Saturday at the Scions of Ravensfall chapter tent, Highguard, so the truth can be found, and the sanctity of Inquisition can be maintained to the highest possible standard.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (928-27)
===Judgement 46===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Ingrid
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Eska Crowspeaker, Liberty's Song to Inquisition at the Hub on Saturday at 3 o'clock, in order to hear the tale of the Liberty Pact and her role in its creation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (197-0)
===Judgement 48===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Earl Galeas du Maurisol
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Maarit Suvidottir, Courage Inquisitior, is called to Inquisition to discuss her conduct as an Inquisitor and her future plans. Anyone interested in the workings of Inquisitions is welcome to attend. Time and Place: 6pm, Wintermark Camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1130-24)
===Judgement 49===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Earl Galeas du Maurisol
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Lenarius Ankarian, Imperial Inquisitor, is called to Inquisition to discuss his conduct as Ambition Inquisitor and his plans for Inquisitorial Court. Anyone interested in the workings of Inquisitions is welcome to attend. Time and Place:4pm, Urizen Camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1211-37)

===Judgement 52===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Elkiah of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' '''Revocation''' The Highborn Assembly seeks to revoke JARED OF THE SUNS OF COUROS from the position of LEPIDEAN LIBRARIAN. Embarrassed us with improper use of the position by using the power in a way he knew it should not be used, and got the name of the person he was researching incorrect. He wants to "experiment with the power" rather than use it as intended to exalt people of our past. Wisdom is asking the right question. He is not. The position would be better served in the hands of someone who wants to use it as it is meant to be used. To encourage Pride in our Empire, not embarrass us.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (146-96)
* '''Notes:''' Jared of the Suns of Couros was [[revocation|revoked]] from the position of [[Lepidean Librarian]].

===Judgement 66===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' James of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Skywise Gralka to Inquisition at 11:30 Sunday at the Cenotaph camp in Highguard over events relating to the Cold Sun.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (376-20)
* '''Notes:''' There were two other judgements of inquisition relating to Skywise Gralka. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 72===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Eliaphas of the Saker
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Condemnation, Escalation)''' I hereby condemn Aska of Sentinel's Watch, former general of the Valiant Pegasus. She was found to carry a dedication of Purity on her soul. During her inquisition, she claimed to have no knowledge of this. The raising priest wishes to suggest the harshest legal penalty for this crime.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (334-362); Scrutiny was [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|extended]] by the [[Cardinal of Loyalty]].
===Judgement 77===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Eska Harakkadottir
* '''Judgement:'' ''Inquisition''' I call to inquisition Merlof, Captain of the Militia, to answer to reports of apathy and a lack of Ambition of the Militia in investigating an accusation of murder. Inquisition to take place at 11am Sunday at the tent of the Crimson Reaper in the League.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (168-12)

===Judgement 83===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Rhaego i Zemress
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Pertaining to Judgement 173 Spring 383 / Inquisition conducted Summer 385. Tisserande has conducted himself with steady virtue. Prosperity assembly acknowledges the struggle Tisserande has faced in his acquisition of the Runeforge. Through his actions, we have unearthed strong evidence of corruption surrounding the prior use and control of this Bourse seat. Our eyes will pierce the shadow of this threat and find the truth. We extend our full spiritual support to Tisserande of House Griffonsbain. Prosperity provides!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (231-0)

===Judgement 93===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Annalaya del Toro
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' We call Leonardo i del Toro as head of the civil service to at 2.15, Saturday this solstice in at house Del Toro Camp. To discuss the heretical content of some mandates that have been set before the Synod by the Civil Service and investigate what might be done to make them less common.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (571-165)
===Judgement 94===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Sister Keziah
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Castigation, Escalation)''' We the Highborn assembly castigate Aksehfor her grevious failure of vigilance. However, since she did not preach false virtue, she does not meet the definition of religious crime, and a condemnation on these grounds is inappropriate. She deserves to - and must - seek atonement for her sinful actions, as do all who stray from virtue. I, sister Keziah,commit to guide her on the long, hard path to redemption and virtue. No soul or spirit - no matter their crimes - is beyond salvation!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (272-178)
===Judgement 104===
* '''Assembly:''' WIsdom
* '''Raised By:''' Amris Johan Menkovich
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Penance, Escalation)''' In relation to his virtue defence of Lucaz. It is found that Father Drakov should perform penance to the Law. This was his first virtue defence and as such he was unaware that a priest can a) change their mind or b) condemn the accused. He showed lack of Wisdom at 3 points as a result he must perform 3 tasks to aid the militia before performing another defence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (223-0)
===Judgement 105===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pickers Blackleap
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Senator de Rondell to inquisition regarding the motion to raise funds for a Dawnish army. At 5pm in Navarr songs and stories circle. All welcome to attend.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Auditor_of_Senatorial_Accountability#Inquisit_Member_of_the_Senate|Upheld automatically]].
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Bohemond de Rondell. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.

===Judgement 111===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ephron of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Clarive Novarion of the Doctrinal Council to Inquisition on the matter of proposed changes to Doctrine. I will visit the Novarion tent at 19:00 Saturday to conduct the inquisition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (740-13)
===Judgement 114===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' General Aurum has with great Ambition pursued their role in acting out the will of the Military Council, They have faced some of the worst enemies of this our Empire <u>and</u> the threat of false Virtue They are guided by a network of priests and have sound understanding of what must be done to protect theirs and their soldier's souls. They understand the power of words. May their testimony remain true. May they remain a guiding light. Wisdom Questions all, Silas of the Cenotaph.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (721-31)
===Judgement 115===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Earl of Fools
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' At 10 of the Saturday of Autumn's night toiqnusition is called Lord Bohemond de Rondell to face us in Glory's Square to answer strife twixt national and generals (and we mean the Barrens situation). True liberator or true conqueror.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (76-0)
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Bohemond de Rondell. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 120===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Mina i Yashum i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Call Claudia Lovelorn to Inquisition to determine the extend to which virtue affects Claudia's uses of magic. 11am - HOUSE REMYS- Autumn 384YE - Sunday. Raphael i Z(?) i Riqueza will lead the ritual.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1045-20)
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Claudia Lovelorn. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.

===Judgement 127===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Following inquisition into Reidarr "Blood-letter" of Brychenhal with the aid of Saavi "Heroes Champion" I wish to recognise Reidarr's inspiring virtue his courage to stand by what is right, the way he instils loyalty in those who follow him and his pride in building others up show excellence in military virtue. He conducts himself as a hero in everything he does and his life is a story to inspire many heroes yet to come.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (987-16)
===Judgement 138===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Bryca Tanner
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' The Marcher National Assembly calls Jonathan Thresher to inquisition in regards to the curse "Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence" on the Urizen territories of Morrow and Zenith. We encourage Johnathan Thresher to defend the virtue of his actions on the Saturday of the Winter SOlstice 385YE, to be held at the All-Virtues Chapel in the Marches camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn
===Judgement 139===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Bryn Netherwatch; you have served as Witness of Conclave and are the first to bear that title. Much has happened in your short tenure! The Witness is an office demanding Vigilance, and so it is right that Vigilance should Witness you. I call you to Inqusition, so that we may speak of what which you have Witnessed, including but not limited to matters Omnihedral. The Day: Saturday, Winter 385YE. The time: 11.30am. The place: Boundaryfolk Camp (Subject to change for accessibility).
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (129-0)
===Judgement 145===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Sam Wych-Elm
* '''Judgement: Inquisition''' I, Sam Wychelm call Kennett the mummer to inquisition on account of the series of judgements they have made <u>exalting Anarchy</u>. We have been unable despite multiple attempts to speak with this citizen to arrange inquisition so we put in this judgement now to give them ample time to arrange their affairs and show up. 6pmSaturday Winter 385YE Merricks.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (213-12)

===Judgement 162===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Witold Petrov
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' We find Vuk acted in Loyalty, holding the lives of all those of his vale as paramount (his first loyalty) when dealing with his Sovereign. His actions last year, which caused rancor in Varushka were the result of a curse due to decisions made as a Senator nothing to do with the Sovereign's bargain. Vuk's soul is not yet perfect, as he has not ascended, but we do not find him lacking in virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (90-0)

===Judgement 164===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' The Basilisk of Highguard's eye is open and those whose Virtue is false shall turn to stone. I call the Sect of Felix's Watch to Inquisition Friday of Winter 385 for their Actions in rooting out the poison of Hatred. Let us now document what happened, how and what lessons were learned. Cyrus, Zarch, Baal, Enoch, Daniel, Tirza, Accolon, Zachariah and Naomi come forth. Wisdom questions all.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1256-0)

===Judgement 171===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Sbella of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' I inquisit the Imperial Exorcist Finna i Fijadoz i Guerra at the last summit. I return with this judgement of vindication. Finna's actions of diplomacy to the Grendel, despite a difficult history, were both loyal and virtuous.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (183-0)

===Judgement 175===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Castigation, Escalation)''' With regards to the inquisition of Hector of Tropian, while he may have had virtuous intent, he lacked wisdom and vigilance in failing utterly to consider the wider implications of his actions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (249-18)
===Judgement 177===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Wayfarer Abraham
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Penance, Escalation)''' Following his inquisition of Wyldfire of Bathosa's Vineyard, it has been found that Sufyan i Zurhi i Erigo acted without due wisdom in accepting evidence and information as part of his proceedings. His lack of Vigilance in controlling his emotions around the topic discussed led to incomplete assessment of virtue. In penance, I charge him with a pilgrimage. A pilgrimage to study the (??) of the Inquisitorial technique and the workings of the Inquisitorial Court for the next two seasons. The virtuous apply what they have learned- Wisdom knows all knowledge is incomplete.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (919-20)
===Judgement 178===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Sebastiano
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call to Inquisition Rafiici Barossa. To seek the Throne is a great act of Ambition. Now tell us why you seek it. Inquisition to take place at 1pm Sunday in the First Spark tent of the League.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (209-10)
===Judgement 179===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Martin Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Jeziah i Radah i Guerra to inquisition to discuss the Vigilance of casting Hallow of the Green World, and the dangers inherent in such transformative magics. This is at his request. 2.01 pm Sun Hub Annex.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (177-0)
===Judgement 185===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kiasjay
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' I find Veikko Bondforger's actions in using the eyes of Loyalty to have been entirely virtuous. While he may have set aside some of his personal ambition he has let loyalty to those he has forged bonds with guide his actions at every step. Bonds with his friends, when they asked. Bonds with his assembly when he let them decide if should be used and the consequences. And bonds with the Empire when he saw part of it in pain.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (956-253)
===Judgement 186===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Melchior of Adina's Charge, Cardinal of Courage, was inquisited about his long history of virtue dating back to his youth in Reikos and later the Granite Pillar. Extending to his arrival at Anvil, his part in defeating the Yaelish Schism, and healing the wounds it caused. His long service as proxy to Cardinal of Courage Clarice Novarion prepared him for this role, and he now intends to further the virtue of the Empire by pushing the assemblies he is in to be proactive forces for positive virtuous change in the Empire. He seeks the inspire courage in others in the future. I look forward to seeing what we can do together in Virtue and he asks us to seek out causes and choose our hills to die on.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (150-0)

===Judgement 187===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ephrom of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' I inquisited Clarice Novarion on the proposed Doctrine of Enlightenment, the writing thereof, and her preaching of it. I commend her and encourage her to shape our shared destiny. I ask the Synod; why did others not seek to apply scrutiny before me? We seek to change Doctrine. Pay attention! We build our future in stone.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (928-26)

===Judgement 189===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Telyn Stormtree
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call to Inquisition Anthamius Netherwatch regarding the ritual Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths which they allegedly led and unleashed the heralds of the Cold Sun. To be held Saturday of the Winter Summit, at a time and place to be agreed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (173-0)
===Judgement 193===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarion
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Cassia Silkweaver to inquisition to discuss their use of priestly powers. At the Winter Solstice, the inquisition will take place. Time and Location to be confirmed closer to the summit.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Virtue_inquisitor#Inquisitor.27s_Judgement|Upheld automatically]]
===Judgement 194===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Heilyn Bronwen's Rest
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' As Basilisk of the Bourse, I call Tristan Ramson von Holberg, the Master of the Mint, to Inquisition on Friday at 20.00 during the Winter Solstice. We shall meet at the Hub and discuss at a teahouse.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Virtue_inquisitor#Inquisitor.27s_Judgement|Upheld automatically]].

===Judgement 198===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Laundine du Lac
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' As the Imperial Chaplain Consular, I call Jarrigk Orzel to an inquisition to discuss his involvement and knowledge of the plot against the Grendel. The inquisition will be held on Friday at 11pm at the Imperial Offices in Winter 385.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Imperial_Chaplain_Consular#Inquisit_Imperial_Ambassador|Upheld automatically]].

==Recognition==
There was one judgement of [[recognition]] during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 7===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Drakov
* '''Judgement:''' This Spring, with 1185 votes in favour, General Assembly passed my Judgement declaring Living Exemplars should be encouraged and celebrated not feared. Following a positive Wisdom Assembly debate last summit, and in light of their recommendations, I seek Recognition as a Living Exemplar. A minimum of 4 signs must be met. I believe I have met the signs of Pilgrimage, Recognition, Legacy, Salvation, and Inspiration. According to the new rules, my supporting evidence is on the Citizen's Notice Board for your consideration.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at the request of the raising priest.

===Judgement 54===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' Ozren de Orzel used art to change the world, and this assembly recognises him as an Exemplar of Pride. <u>Inspiration:</u> Ozren directly inspired the creation of the High Bard, and now every year a new High Bard takes to the Senate floor, a long line of artists, performers, and storytellers following in his footsteps using art to inspire and speak truth to those at the heart of the Empire. <u>Pilgrimage:</u> Ozren went to the Pits of Ennerlund in Holberg to put the unquiet ghosts there to rest after the depredations of the Druj. He did not just take liao to exorcise them, but spoke to them and heard their stories. He brought these back out into the light and retold them to their loved ones, so they would not be forgotten. <u>Benevolence:</u> Ozren was instrumental in the creation of the High Bard, and reclaimed the Pits of Ennerlund by carrying the stories of the unquiet dead back out to the light, both of great lasting benefit to the whole Empire. <u>Legacy:</u> As well as his own beautiful body of work, and co-authoring the first High Bard performance on the Senate floor with his future wife Lady Kaywenn du Launcet. Ozren leaves the position of High Bard as a testament to his dedication to seeing Art and inspiration take its place at the heart of Imperial decision making. More than this, each High Bard is expected to leave a composition as a legacy, ensuring an ever growing body of work dedicated to his vision.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (493-46)
* '''Notes:''' The recognition of Ozren de Orzel will be escalated to the General Assembly for evaluation at the Winter Solstice.

===Judgement 55===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Soratio i Del Toro
* '''Judgement:''' Zemress is a Paragon. In addition to the five signs given when she was recognised as an Exemplar, she displays the sign of Miracles - with numerous spontaneous, virtuous, auras having been found on items associated with her. Furthermore, her Inspiration and Legacy are much greater than were known when she was recognised as an exemplar. Zemress is now known to by the founder of two societies of Prosperous humans - the Zemressi Islanders whose practise of prosperity has improved the agriculture of the Brass Coast, and the Frieoyer who provide the backbone of Sumaah's naval presence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (270-29); the Greater Majority threshold for this judgement was 286.
* '''Notes:''' This judgement did not achieve a Greater Majority and so will not be escalated.
==Appointment==
At the Summit, the following [[appointment|appointments]] were proposed by the Assemblies of the Synod. You can find the names of citizens who currently hold Imperial titles in the Synod [[Current Imperial titles|here]].
===Judgement 2===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Pride]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Zadkiel de Courdefer''' was appointed with 306 votes. Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra received 108 votes. Jedediah Boon of the Ore Hills received 107 votes. Ubarius of Tropaion Citadel received 65 votes. Ephron of Adina's Charge received 16 votes.
===Judgement 12===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue Inquisitor]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sebastiano''' was appointed with 70 votes. Eska Harakadottir received 66 votes. Callista received 46 votes. Eldrid Vestardottir received 10 votes.
===Judgement 14===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of [[Guide to the Lost]]
* '''Outcome:'' '''Ikahn'' was appointed with 26 votes.

===Judgement 25===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of [[Virtue Inquisitor]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sam Wychelm''' was appointed with 92 votes. Brother Geoffrey ORchard received 63 votes. Dagon and Galeas each received 0 votes.
===Judgement 30===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Archivist of the Echoing Obelisk]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Enoch of Felix's Watch''' was appointed with 196 votes. Elkiah of the Shattered Tower was appointed with 60 votes.
===Judgement 41===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment [[Challenger in Waiting]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Earl of Fools''' appointed with 84 votes. Captain Charge received 8 votes. Damarian Orzel received 16 votes. Earl D'Eon Novarion received 10 votes. Galahad Audrax received 10 votes. Lady Nimue DeRondell received 10 votes. Hector de Sarroi received 0 votes. Sir Gaeris received 0 votes. Henry Vallarios received 0 votes. Tal Fracrasser of House Vexille received 0 votes.
===Judgement 42===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Knight of the Greenwood]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Earl Percival Summerstrong''' was appointed with 108 votes. Enchantress Armand Remys received 107 votes. Lord Lucien deCoeurdefer received 52 votes. Mordrain Sepulchre received 10 votes.
===Judgement 43===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Abbess of Reconciliation]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sister Rosa of the Chantry''' was appointed with 360 votes. Berrak of the Navigators of Virtue received 74 votes.
===Judgement 44===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Guardian of the Maze of Zoria]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Illya Nikovitch Volkov''' was appointed with 166 votes. Kalina Jadwigowna Piesnkova received 52 votes.
===Judgement 60===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Apointment of the [[Reeve of Greenforest Fair]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Arlen Foreman-Smith''' was appointed with 176 votes.

===Judgement 65===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Courage]].
* '''Outcome:''' Emrys i Guerra, Pris Jackdaw's Call, Salome i Nadir i Erigo all received 20 votes so the title was not appointed. Ser Drysford received 10 votes. Coren Lonestrider and Thomir of the Cenotaph each received 0 votes,
* '''Notes:''' See [[#Judgement 161|Judgement 161]]
===Judgement 81===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Valens Leos''' was appointed with 119 votes. Elagabala received 69 votes. Iza Mor'goed received 0 votes.
===Judgement 126===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Lepidean Librarian]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower''' was appointed with 280 votes. Carlos i Navigator of Virtue i Guerra received 78 votes. Jared of the Suns of Couros received 62 votes.

===Judgement 143===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Watcher of Ratibor's Torch]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Vitore Van Temeschwar''' was appointed with 243 votes.

===Judgement 161===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of [[Champion of Courage]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Thomir''' was appointed with 126 votes. Pris Jackdaw's Call received 66 votes. Coren Lonestrider received 10 votes.

==Rewarding==
The following judgements of [[rewarding]] were proposed during the summit.
===Judgement 8===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Estella Lucati
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod rewards the Virtue of Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia. Arsenio has displayed both Ambition and Prosperity in creating opportunities for Imperial citizens including expanding access to important materials and resources for the Empire as a whole at personal expense. To celebrate Arsenio's virtues and to encourage him to comparable deeds in the future, the Synod rewards him with twenty-one Thrones from the Virtue Fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (315-205)
===Judgement 10===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' Since Summer 384, I have been patron of a group of Virtuous rebels in Asavea. With the support of the Sevenfold Path, Highborn Benefactors, Ashborn Pakt, my family, and several others who do not wish to be named. I have sent them money to bribe corrupt officials, white granite to fortify their homes, and 175 doses of Liao so they can practice The Way. With the Conclave's aid I have also provided them with a ritual text to assist their work. The total financial value of the aid I have sent them is over 70 Thrones. This has resulted in a decapitation strike against the Tarquinius family, prime movers against the Empire in the Asavean Plenum. I claim full responsibility for this act and encourage anyone who is able to tell the Asaveans it was me. To cover those costs I incurred personally, and to ensure I can continue this work, I ask the Synod to reward me with 35 Thrones.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1123-324)

===Judgement 19===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rocio i Fijadoz i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' In this era of doctrinal reform, it is more important than ever that we ensure that our beliefs are based in fact. The nature of the Labyrinth is a mystery to us, and one that underpins our entire faith. We have discovered a way to use true liao to mark a soul in a way that will enable us to observe them as they pass through the Labyrinth, shedding much light on this mystery. I ask for a dose of true liao for this purpose, so we may learn more of the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (989-1019). The [[Cardinal of Ambition]] used the ability to require [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|further scrutiny]] on this judgement.
===Judgement 28===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lysimachus
* '''Judgement:''' The Anvil Hospital has kept many of the people of Anvil alive and treated the Heroes of Anvil for a veritable smorgasbord of curses, traumatic injuries, Druj poisons, a whole host of supernatural weird stuff and (occasionally) their own stupidity. The physicks of the hospital have shown their Virtue summit after summit especially Courage, Ambition and Loyalty, and are a source of great Pride to the Empire. While nothing stops any citizen who believes in supporting the hospital from sharing their prosperity is to aid in keeping us from getting injured and/or killed, we wish to reward Gabrielle Barossa; Bursar of the Hospital with 9 Thrones, 2Crowns, and 11 Rings - the same amount donated to the fund by a physick no longer with us - to allow the Anvil Hospital to continue its virtuous work.
'''Outcome:''' Upheld (1673-89)

===Judgement 45===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Jules von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod rewards the Virtue of Giacomo Corvinoscuro. Some believed that constructing naval defences in Sarvos against the coming Grendel was folly and could never be completed in time. Yet through tireless effort, great personal expense, and working with powerful and expensive covens, Giacomo stands at the cusp of success. That which should have taken a year takes only six months. Ninety percent of what was needed has been obtained. For this heroic effort, and to encourage him in the final stretch, we reward Giacomo with twenty-eight Thrones from the Virtue Fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1065-482)

===Judgement 82===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Caewel Novarion
* '''Judgement:''' Enchantress Areloe Lormalleves has been instrumental in orchestrating large magical rituals in Dawn. After casting Bound by Common Cause for the first time in Dawn, she pursued her Ambition to organise the casting of more and greater rituals to benefit the Empire. Her Ambition lead her to organise the casting of an Arcane Projection by Meraud that protected the citizens of Dawn from the Cold Sun, ensuring no lives ere lost. Meraud has offered the Enchantress an opportunity to create a Sinecure that she wants to use to flame the Ambitions of others who wish to follow in her path. I feel these acts are virtuous and deserve reward. I ask the Synod to provide 15 Thrones from the virtue fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (679-409)
===Judgement 95===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pontis Figures
* '''Judgement:''' Remodelling Bastion with a Grand Inspiration of the Way will be the work of ages and a legacy of our Empire. The sizeable resource investment required (1000 wains of white granite) means a collective effort will be required. We propose that the virtue fund is utilised to provide some of this and bring the project to a swifter completion. So far the virtue fund has provided 3 wains from previous rewardings. We seek 15 Thrones in order to purchase another 3 wains.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (484-262)
===Judgement 112===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tom Appleseed
* '''Judgement:''' Seeking a dose of True Liao for the consecration of the tomb of Good Walder, Paragon of Prosperity.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (543-152); Scrutiny was [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|extended]] by the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]].
* '''Notes:''' No [[liao#True Liao|True Liao]] remained in the virtue fund when this judgement passed.

===Judgement 121===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Fintan Founders Dance
* '''Judgement:''' The Seven Pilgrims stand as inspiration to citizens of the Empire. To recover the Pilgrim's Shield Bawn-Watch requires equivalent trade. We ask for a dose of true liao from the virtue fund to create a true hallowed artefact for this purpose.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (675-262)

==Special Considerations==
The following considerations should be borne in mind when bringing judgements before the Imperial Synod during the Autumn Equinox.
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible 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 would 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]], [[Hard_and_suspecting#The_Varushkan_Assembly|Varushka Link]].</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>Highguard</td><td> The Highborn National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in any National Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>Highguard</td><td> The Highborn National Assembly can pass a statement of principle to call on their nation to support the Imperial Orcs, the Marches, or Wintermark.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Peerless Kinship]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>Urizen</td><td> The Urizen National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in the Highborn Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>League</td><td> The League National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in the Highborn Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>Varushka</td><td> The Varushkan National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in the Highborn Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
</table>
==Alternative Mandates==
Prior to the summit, the following [[Mandate#Alternative Mandates|alternative mandates]] were proposed by members of the Synod.

{|
| '''Member''' || '''Link to mandate''' || '''Notes'''
|-
| Aurum of the Nightingale Temple || [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|A question of loyalty]] ||
|-
| Herminius of the House of the Wanderer || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] || A use of [[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]] for the Urizen Assembly
|-
| Maximillian Ankarien || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] || A use of [[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]] for the Urizen Assembly
|-
| Brynn Tendfallen || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Nathair Autumngale || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Enis RootBloom || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Corey Wayfarer || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Jared of the Suns of Couros || [[Restraint#The_Black_Feast|Restraint]] || A use of [[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]] for the Highborn Assembly
|-
| Maria i Espiri i Guerra || [[Between_two_mounds#An_Enduring_Flame|Between two mounds]] ||
|-
| Ahraz i Guerra || [[Between_two_mounds#An_Enduring_Flame|Between two mounds]] ||
|}
==The Virtue Fund==
The following represents the Virtue Fund of the Synod:
{|
| ''Starting Value'' || 26 Thrones, 2 Rings ||
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 21 Thrones || Rewarding to Estella Lucati following [[#Judgement 8|Judgement 8]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Income'' || 12 Rings || Donation by the Secretary General of the Civil Service from the sale of writing implements.
|-
| ''Income'' || 5 Rings || Donation by Lysimachus.
|-
| ''Income'' || 70 Thrones || The price paid in the Bourse Auction for the dose of True Liao.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 9 Thrones, 2 Crowns, 11 Rings || Rewarding to Lysimachus following [[#Judgement 28|Judgement 28]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 35 Thrones || Rewarding to Rafael Barossa di Tassato following [[#Judgement 10|Judgement 10]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 28 Thrones || Rewarding to Jules von Holberg following [[#Judgement 45|Judgement 45]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 2 Thrones, 6 Crowns, 8 Rings || Rewarding to Pontus Figures following [[#Judgement 95|Judgement 95]] being upheld (insufficient funds for full rewarding).
|-
| ''Income'' || 14 Rings || Donation by the Secretary General of the Civil Service from the sale of writing implements.
|-
| ''Closing Value'' || 14 Rings ||
|}

==Doses of True Liao==

Six doses of [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]] were disbursed this summit:
* One dose in connection to the [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean University]] to Fintan Founders' Dance via [[#Judgement 121|Judgement 121]]
* One dose to Gisli by purchase in the [[Public auction|Public Auction]]
* One dose to Anastasiya Volkov by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to Esteban i Del Rio Blanco i Guerra by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to Tom Appleseed by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose awarded by the Gatekeepers at a previous summit to Livia Cascade

385YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements

2023-11-20T19:49:21Z

RichardRaynor: sp

[[Category: Synod]] [[Category:Synod Results]] [[Category: Synod Judgements]] [[Category: 385YE Autumn]]
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SynodAutumn385.png|caption=Judgements are the way that the various assemblies of the [[Imperial Synod]] carry out their business.|align=right|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
During the Autumn Equinox 385YE Summit, the [[Imperial Synod]] raised 202 [[judgement|judgements]].
==Change of Doctrine==
The following [[change of doctrine]] was proposed during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 3===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Clarice Novarion
* '''Judgement:''' To remove the Doctrine of Human Destiny and replace it with the Doctrine of Enlightenment. The virtuous inspire others to greatness; they do not demean them. Let us celebrate the spiritual power of Virtue without degrading our fellow Pilgrims. Let us inspire orcs and humans as equals in the Way with a true expression of Pride and Ambition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (3013 - 159)
* '''Notes:''' This historic judgement both rescinds the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Human_Destiny|Doctrine of Human Destiny]] and creates a new Doctrine of Enlightenment. The full implications of this significant change to [[the Doctrines of the Faith]] will be felt over the coming months.
<big>'''The Doctrine of Enlightenment'''</big>
<div class="ic"><div class="ic-inner" style="display: block;">
<big>''Virtue lies in choice and action. Virtue's power to exalt transcends the boundaries of soul, spirit, and species, guiding and inspiring both orcs and humans to their highest destiny. Through the practice of Virtue, orcs and humans develop the strength, knowledge and enlightenment which marks their highest potential as thinking beings .''</big></div></div>
__TOC__

==Veto==
One [[veto]] was sought during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 202===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Fool of Glory
* '''Judgement:''' The Assembly of Nine veto the election of the Throne.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld, with a Greater Majority (0-6); Primacy
* '''Notes:''' A [[veto]] may still be sought on the appointment of [[the Throne]] by the General Assembly.

==Statement of Principle==
===Judgement 4===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Prince Bishop Hildebrand von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Virtue is spread by example and what better way can there be to share that example than the arts! We encourage all citizens of the League to bask in the glow of stained glass, to weep at plays, and to be inspired by great virtuous tales. Art begets virtue and virtue begets art.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (301-12)

===Judgement 5===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Yosephus Morningson
* '''Judgement:''' The views of the Tample of Balance are not shared by all priests but neither are they heretical. Those who hold such views should be allowed to preach according to their beliefs. Note: Commentary on this judgement has been published on the public notice board in the hub and Yosephus Morningson is available to discuss it and share further documentation. Yosephus can be found wearing white robes with a straw hat and will be in the hub on Friday at 9pm, Saturday at 10am, 1:30pm, 3pm, and 9pm, and Sunday at 10am, Noon, and 1pm.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (340-760)
===Judgement 6===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Hector of Tropaion
* '''Judgement:''' The Druj will always threaten that which we watch over. We must strike decisively in their heartland, to thwart their planned malice before we fall foul of it. This assembly advocates the cursing of Sarnath.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (275-16)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] are part of [[the Mallum]], the homelands of the [[Druj]]. The Empire is currently engaged in a [[A_walk_in_shadow|military campaign]] there. The [[Citadel Guard]] are present, presenting the opportunity to take advantage of the [[Urizen]] [[Imperial army|army]] ability to [[Army_qualities#Magic|channel ritual magic]] into the [[territory]].
===Judgement 9===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ortenzia di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' This assembly encourage the ambitious, wise, and vigilant search for potions and substances that will allow orc priests of all nations to engage with the virtues in similar ways to how human priests use liao.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (2733-10)
* '''Notes''': [[Orc|Orcs]] are [[Orc#Rules_FAQ|unable]] to use [[liao]], and do not gain benefits from the [[Tisanes of the Labyrinth]].
===Judgement 13===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Set Mael Donjeon
* '''Judgement:''' From the now-blest Barrens shrine / Weary we walked / Great grief tempering great joy / One thing I know / That soothes a heavy heart / Is the gift of faithful friend. We returned from the Barrens in summer to a heroic welcome from the Fellowship of the Broken Willow and the Winterfolk. The Troubadours of Dawn are grateful for, and shall remember this kindness.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (313-0)
* '''Notes:''' This seems to refer to the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[A_glorious_victory#Here_We_Stand_.28Conjunction.29|expedition]] to [[the Barrens]] at the Summer Solstice, during which they consecrated a chapel with [[liao#True Liao|true liao]], creating an [[inspirational location]].
===Judgement 15===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Averil Olsen Warsmith of the Iron Way
* '''Judgement:''' Wintermark should remain Vigilant against our many enemies who attempt to shatter out battles lines. We should use our Wisdom to know further war with these enemies will happen. Therefore we should begin to produce Artisan Oil on a larger scale. As a nation we should take Pride in our runesmith traditions and build an Artisan Academy which would give us space to train new runesmiths. This would simultaneously produce a reserve of Artisan Oil for this great nation. This would allow our already trained Artisans to dedicate more time to crafting more complex magic items for Wintermark and the Empire. The Storm will never break us.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (333-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Artisan's Oil]] is a substance invented in the [[Commonwealth]] that allows [[Calls#SHATTER|shattered]] weapons and shields to be [[mend|mended]]. Any Imperial [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisan]] can create it., as the procedure for doing so was disseminated throughout the Empire in late Autumn and early Winter of 379YE by agents of the [[Fellowship of Purple Sails]].

===Judgement 16===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Friar John of the Mourn
* '''Judgement:''' It has become common in current times that past life visions have been shared and recorded more widely for the sake of reclaiming lost history and investigating the Way. Until recently, past life visions were more often a private, spiritual affair intended to offer guidance to the visionary. We call upon all those across the Empire, including those who do not attend Anvil, who may have had a more private past life vision to consider volunteering that information. This should even be if their names are to be kept anonymous in the records. Such knowledge enriches our understanding of the soul and of the Way. It allows us to track whether known virtuous souls have been reborn, gives us an insight onto history, and potentially brings us new tales of virtue which could be used to inspire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (2506-9)
* '''Notes:''' A [[past life vision]] is achieved through the use of [[liao#True Liao|true liao]]. In recent years, records of many past life visions have been published by the [[Seer of the Gateway]] and [[Disseminate_True_Liao_visions|shared with interested readers]] across the Known World; this publication represents only the tip of the iceberg however. There are more than three centuries of Imperial past life visions for which there is no publicly available documentation.
===Judgement 29===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Jedediah Boon
* '''Judgement:''' Hue and Cry, Miners and Landskeepers of the Mourn and Marches! The constellation of the Wanderer still shines bright in the sky! Watch the tunnels of your land with Vigilance and cast your mine enchantments with cautious wisdom. Invoke the name of Jonah Gold as you stand together against mysterious spirits that offer wealth and good fortune; they are no hard workers of the land, but tulpas fit only for driving away! Miners and Landskeepers, Hue and Cry!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (156-10)
* '''Notes:''' This caution appears to refer to [[Various_storms_and_saints#Spirits_of_Stone|recent peculiar effects]] reported by magicians performing [[enchantment|enchantments]] aimed at [[mine|mines]], apparently connected to a conjunction of [[the Wanderer]].

===Judgement 31===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Limonos of the Astral Observatory
* '''Judgement:''' Magicians are the leaders of our nation, however consequences are the price of Ambition. In light of recent events we call on Sentinels to remember their role as guardians of our nation, and remind them that threats can come from within as well as without. Do not be afraid to act to protect Urizen, even if you would act against other Urizeni.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (218-85)
* '''Notes:''' An exhortation to the [[sentinel|sentinels]] of [[Urizen]], who form the bulk of the nation's armed forces and embrace the arts of war with the same passion and commitment with which their fellow Urizeni study magic.
===Judgement 32===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Able the Taller
* '''Judgement:''' Zenith is being rebuilt, stone by stone. One Ring At A Time. But we must not shy away from the lessons of the recent past, the mistakes and weakness that lead to the despoiling of our homes and the loss of our territory. Consequences are the Cost of Ambition, we must seek to raise another Army, and commit ourselves to this path however long it takes to travel.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (348-0)
* '''Notes:''' Each nation can maintain only a limited number of [[Imperial army|armies]] (and [[Imperial navy|navies]]). Urizen can [[Imperial_army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces|support]] only a single army - currently the [[Citadel Guard]].
===Judgement 35===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Luca i Taziel i Riquez
* '''Judgement:''' The Human Spirit can be touched by Purity, Pride, Peace, Prosperity, and more. Seemingly, every aura is a tune which plays in harmony with something intrinsic and pure in Spirit's song, regardless of how we feel about the notes. The Virtues were chosen as Doctrine, as we choose peace or war, amity or enmity, enemies or lovers (although those can sometimes be the same). The Doctrine of Seven is a choice built on evidence first and opinion second, but it is a choice we made and can unmake. It must be treated as such. We cannot cry heresy at a question asked, when our predecessors asked it too. We cannot claim an understanding of the Human Spirit when we do not at least acknowledge all the music it sings.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (743-869)
* '''Notes:''' The [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Seven|Doctrine of the Seven]] is one of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith|Doctrines of the Faith]] that form the foundation of the Way. It states that "''There are seven Virtues that guide the spirit through the Labyrinth of Ages. These are Ambition, Courage, Loyalty, Pride, Prosperity, Vigilance and Wisdom. Other qualities may benefit humanity, but lend no aid through the passage of death to rebirth, and some may hinder it.''".
===Judgement 36===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Nekoda of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' As the Freefolk complete their pilgrimage around the Empire, in the way the forebears of Highguard completed their pilgrimage across the Bay of Catazar and the First Empress brought the Revelation across the nations of the Empire, we the Highborn recognise them as kindred souls and invite them to settle with us and find new homes in our Nation. We are all scions of Atun and Atuman, as peoples seeking our paths in the world, dedicated to the pursuit of the Way, and following in the Inspiration of our exemplars and paragons. Let us do so together. In Loyalty, let us build up one another. In Pride, let us embrace our pasts and inspire one another. In Wisdom, let us test what we know, and learn together.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (602-10)
* '''Notes:''' [[Atun]] and [[Atuman]] are inspiration figures credited with establishing the Highborn nation and the foundations of the Way. The Free Folk are former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves who practice the Way, albeit in an unfamiliar fashion. Many have spent the last year engaged in a [[Folklore#The_Free_Folk_Pilgrimage|pilgrimage to inspirational locations]] across the Empire, with the support of the [[Imperial Synod]].

===Judgement 37===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Isaia Pavone di Sarvos
* '''Judgement:''' Prosperity teaches that all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it. We benefit from Urizen's sacrifice and we must repay our debts. Let us prove we hear Urizen's pain and that we are no the thieving bandits they fear us to be. Lorenzo's Legacies provide the League with ample mana, and our Urizeni siblings are in need. Let us send the mana from these Great Works to shroud the spires of Spiral.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (325-110)
* '''Notes:''' Wealthy philanthropist Lorenzo “La Volpe” Macelliao von Temeschwar left many legacies behind; some of the best known are the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#The_Legacies_of_Virtue|Legacies of Virtue]] established in half-a-dozen territories across the Empire - [[great work|great works]] that increase the amount of crystal mana that can be harvested at [[mana site|mana sites]] in those territories. This statement also seems to reference the possibility of providing the [[spire|spires]] of [[Spiral]] with the mana needed to enact rituals that would help them remain connected to their fellows in [[Zenith]] and [[Redoubt]], as detailed in a [[A_question_of_loyalty#Spires|recent appraisal]].
===Judgement 38===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Velko Perunovich Razoradze
* '''Judgement:''' Drowning criminals in the Semmerlak is not an act of idolatry it is a return to the agreements of old. Dho'uala wants the mortal bodies of condemned criminals. Fulfilling this request is not heathen sacrifice it is a necessary bargain. Lawful execution by drowning is no different to chopping of a head in the eyes of virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld, Withdrawn (983-1042); Scrutiny was [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|extended]] by the [[Cardinal of Vigilance]].
* '''Notes:''' Appears to be talking about the [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Those_Who_No_Longer_Need_To_Live|proposal to drown criminals]] in the waters of [[the Semmerlak]] to mollify the [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereign]] known as [[Dho'uala]]. While a [[Senate motion]] was raised regarding this proposal, it was [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_execution_in_territories_around_the_Semmerlak|subsequently withdrawn]].

===Judgement 47===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Saul Truthmonger
* '''Judgement:''' Highguards bonds of Loyalty spread to helping souls in need. Vendarri orcs have stated that they want to settle, if only they had a swamp to call home. Ambition drives us to seek excellence in all things - so we should do what we can to make our lands more hospitable. Then we can begin to treat non believers as souls to be saved, rather than enemies to be destroyed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (252-80)
* '''Notes:''' This relates to the complex situation of the [[Not_to_conquer#Vendarri|Vendarri]] sept of orcs in [[the Barrens]]. The [[Imperial Senate]] has declared that this sept are barbarians, clarifying the situation in an [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Declare_war_on_the_Vendarri|administrative motion]] during the Autumn Equinox.

===Judgement 50===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Josephine of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' Orcs are members of the Empire and are known to benefit from the Way of Virtue. For years Orcish traditions have been attacked and their voices spoken over and disrespected. There are now many Septs in the Empire each with their own traditions. The Empire is changing, we as humans must acknowledge what we've done and treat them with the respect they are owed as fellow citizens of the Empire. Talk to them, ask what they need and actually ''listen'' to their answer rather than just assume.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1678-168)
===Judgement 51===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Corrado Filiarchi de Regario
* '''Judgement:''' The virtuous build up their fellows they do not tear them down. Urizen draws a knife to their own neck and call themselves cohesive. They call out the spilling of Urizeni blood as if by returning Spiral through diplomacy, we have not saved the blood of the Empire being spilled without need. Calls to violence came from Urizeni tongues, not the Empire. We wish to bring citizens from across the League - including Apulian Orcs - to open themselves to talk with Urizen and to match their threat of warfare with diplomacy that gives us the chance to discuss this, to push the logic of this choice with conversation. We will not justify rebellion with warfare. To subvert the authority of the Imperial senate and resort to armed rebellion is to lose the great game, we of the League instead (??) invite Urizen to play as equals for all is prosperity.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (301-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Windfall|recent]] [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment|assignment]] of [[Spiral]] to [[the League]], and the [[A question of loyalty|complex situation]] developing there.

===Judgement 53===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Merari Navigators of Virtue
* '''Judgement:''' Unveiling is a valid spiritual discipline, Highborn assembly 384. A year ago as a nation the lineaged and unlineaged priests of Highguard declared with one prideful voice that our tradition of unveiling is a valid practice in our spiritual journey. This remains unchanged! However, we each travel our own path while we journey through the Way. It is true that unveiling can be fruitful for a person's spiritual growth. But it must be stressed that if a Lineaged adherent of the Way chooses not to unveil, that is also equally valid.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (484-32)
* '''Notes:''' [[Highguard_lineage_and_species_attitudes#Specific_Lineage|Unveiling]] is a somewhat controversial practice among some [[lineage|lineaged]] [[Highguard|Highborn]] in which they remove or disfigure the visible marks of their lineage, usually by cutting off their [[Cambion|horns]] or [[Changeling|antlers]].
===Judgement 56===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Vespasian
* '''Judgement:''' The Cold Sun seeks not only to exterminate the people of the Empire, but eliminate our culture and art as well. We have lost the Grand Conservatory of Music, Freya's Garden, and the Unbound Steel Hall of Lost Chapters - we must not lose any more great works of our cultures. We urge the Prideful to proclaim their Pride in how they conduct every part of their lives by rising up against the Cold Sun and aiding the soldiers of the Empire against it. Despise the half-hearted, the uncommitted, and the pretender in this struggle for our identities.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a greater Majority (590-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Cold Sun]] is an [[eternal]] of the Day Realm whose soldiers are engaged in a [[To_the_last_syllable|military campaign]] across the Empire, one that recently saw the destruction of the three locations mentioned in the statement.
===Judgement 58===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Grogfear, son of Grignir
* '''Judgement:''' The Prosperous are not selfish; all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it. Atte Arrow-Tongued has shown themselves to be a steadfast supporter of strengthening Wintermark. They have guided us through some of the most turbulent times since the death of the Young Empress. It is their words we give voice to at our moots. "Three people, one nation. Ten nations, one Empire." They played a key role in the gifting of Skarsind to the Imperial orcs and were vital to the success of the initial Liberty Pact negotiations. Now they have committed themselves to lifting up Sermersuaq, ensuring the territory does not continue to be overlooked. Wintermark is proud to add their tales to the Chronicle of Heroes.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (371-0)
* '''Notes:''' The name of Atte Arrow-Tongued has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]].

===Judgement 59===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Ubarius of Tropaion Citadel
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtues do not demean others, they inspire them to greatness. The Faraden follow four of the True Virtues, but also are demeaned by the false virtue of Vengeance. They also have a national shortage of liao. The Empire should not be giving or selling liao directly to the Faraden, where it may fall into the hands of blasphemers. Rather, we urge our Prideful missionaries to dedicate Faraden priests that follow Pride, and given them Hallowed items. This will raise their status in Faraden society, relative to those who follow Vengeance, thus inspiring them to greatness.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (498-28)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Faraden]] are foreigners who live to the west of the Empire, across the [[Jotun]]-controlled Lasambrian Hills. Their [[Faraden#Faraden_Religious_Beliefs|religion]] has similarities to the Way, including the veneration of the virtues of [[Pride]], [[Courage]], [[Loyalty]], and [[Prosperity]], but differs in several key regards most well-known of which is their inclusion of the [[malign spiritual presences|malign spiritual presence]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Vengeance|Vengeance]] alongside the four true virtues. The Pride assembly has [[Wild_blue_yonder#Faraden|recently engaged]] with the priests of Faraden, to learn more about their faith; further information is expected to be made available to Imperial citizens soon.
===Judgement 61===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' "Shacklebreaker" Thranmir Hrafnar
* '''Judgement:''' Helgunn Chargebringer of the Fellowship of the Broken Willow should have their name written in the Chronicle of Heroisum. They were a Courageous, Pridefull, Wise, and Loyal leader of the Heart of the Mark until they met their end in Kahraman. Time and time again they welcomed new heroes of Wintermark into their battle unit, helped train them up into heroes, and watched over them as they helped the Empire secure greater victories on the battlefield. They earnt their Hero name "Chargebringer" for showing immense Courage through leading multiple charges from the front and inspired everyone to step with them. A Hero has a name!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (365-0)
* '''Notes:''' The name of Helgunn Chargebringer has been added to the [[Heroism#Chronicle_of_Heroism|Chronicle of Heroism]]
===Judgement 62===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Rafe
* '''Judgement:''' The young empress Britta Gilderling is a virtuous example to us all, memorialized in Necropolis, as she rests in the waters of the Sovevann. We believe it is time to link these two places of pilgrimage both symbolically and literally, for those visiting the memorial in Necropolis should also be directed to the pool where Britta Gilderling rests, and vice versa so that those what come to Britta's pool are also sent to see how her virtuous actions are remembered by all the people of the Empire. Three people, one nation, many nations under the Way in one great Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (331-0)
* '''Notes:''' The body of [[Empress Britta]] was given to the marshes of the [[Kallavesa#The_Sovevann|Sovevann]] in 376YE, while her regalia was placed in a [[Guardian of Britta's Shrine|shrine]] in the [[Necropolis]]. In Autumn 379YE, the regalia were removed from the shrine and [[To sleep in Kallavesa|interred in the marshes]] alongside her body. [[Watcher_of_Britta%27s_Pool#Britta's Pool|Britta's Pool]] remains a place of pilgrimage for those who wish to honour the memory of the Young Empress, while the former tomb has been [[Guardian_of_Britta%27s_Memorial|rededicated]] to the virtue of [[Courage]].
===Judgement 64===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Elagabala
* '''Judgement:''' Rebels of Spiral, the Grendel are coming. Their false faith demands they invade your home. Philostrate, host of Menos, has asked "where were you twenty years ago? Ten years ago?" We are at the negotiating table. You are at the negotiating table. If you take the land you intend, the Grendel's eight units will slaughter you, and the Empire will be unable to help. Look to Urizen's enemies to the south. Your home is in peril.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (181-110)
* '''Notes:''' This seems to be an address to the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|rebellious]] [[Urizen]] [[spire|spires]] in [[Spiral]], referencing the end of the [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE|treaty]] securing peace with the [[Grendel]] that came to an end with the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 67===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' The Virtue face unwelcome truths as boldly as any barbarian charge. The Urizen National Assembly and the Sword Scholars within it have undoubtedly shown themselves to be bold; and have made the Courageous decision through their Wisdom to no longer venerate the actions of Sulemaine. In their time, they have inspired others to greatness and will continue to do so; and the Highguard National Assembly anticipates further brilliance from them. Let us see together what bright future we build for our wonderful Empire.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (438-6)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.
===Judgement 68===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Aedig Steadfast
* '''Judgement:''' Foeslayer the artefact banner held by Emperor Guntherm and possibly Empress Britta, is missing since Britta's death. The Crows call upon the mystics, the wise, the scops, the elders, and the scholars, to bring us any news of this banner's resting place.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (337-0)
* '''Notes:''' Foe-slayer is an [[Magic_items#Artefacts|artefact]] [[Three Tears|Three Tears]] banner, born into battle by the [[Banner-Bearer]] of [[Emperor Guntherm]] banner-bearer until he fell in battle with the Jotun. It was said that the banner was interred in the [[Kallavesa|Kallavesi swamps]] alongside the Emperor - and that his ghost personally gave the banner to [[Empress Britta]] when she came of age. The whereabouts of the magical standard are not common knowledge at this time.

===Judgement 70===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Irada von Temeschwar
* '''Judgement:''' The inspiration of Berechiah drives Vigilance pilgrims and priests to actively tear out the poison that threatens the Empire. We the vigilance assembly encourage the creation of an Inspirational monument consecrated with true liao at his Basilica in Bastion, so that his inspiration, in rooting out threats can be felt across the Empire
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (250-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Berechiah]] is an often-controversial [[Paragons_and_exemplars#Renowned_Exemplars|exemplar]] of [[Vigilance]]. This statement calls for the establishment of an [[inspirational location]] at his basilica, which stands in the city of [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City|Bastion]], in [[Highguard]].
===Judgement 71===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rey Fosterbrooke
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Imperial Synod, guardians of the Empire's faithful, acknowledge the differing orcish beliefs within our borders. While the Imperial Orcs adhere to our current doctrine, we recognise the unique spiritual path followed by the Mournwold Orcs. The virtue of wisdom teaches us to test what we know. Thus we propose a theological research imitative to explore these orc related doctrines - Reincarnation, the Howling Abyss, and the Ancestors. This seeks common ground, evaluates historical and cultural significance, and fosters dialogue between these two communities.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1896-67)
* '''Notes:''' This statement speaks on the complex matter of [[orc]] spiritual beliefs, especially as they relate to the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#Doctrines_of_The_Faith|doctrines]] of [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Reincarnation|Reincarnation]], the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Howling_Abyss|Howling Abyss]], and the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Ancestors|Ancestors]]. The [[Mournwold Orcs]] in particular believe that they are [[Mournwold_Orcs#Religion|capable of reincarnation]], a matter that has become increasingly pressing since the Marcher assembly has [[#Judgement 199|called on their nation]] to embrace the former Jotun thralls as fellow Marchers.
===Judgement 74===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdon
* '''Raised By:''' Lord Laurant Sephulcre
* '''Judgement:''' Test what you learn; only fools accept hearsay as truth. The Free Folk come to us with tales of their Divine Family. The Speaker for the Dead is recognised as an Exemplar, yet three more remain. We encourage those who believe the Free Folk to bring forward proof of their claims: evidence, fact, and reason. If truth can be found, recognition can follow. If the Divine Family are <s>nothing</s> more than tales and fables then they are <s>un</s>worthy of reverence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (300-44)
* '''Notes:''' The [[On the Speaker for the Dead|Speaker for the Dead]] is one of the inspirations venerated by the former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves known as the Free Folk, recently [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_3|recognised as an exemplar]]. They are one of four figures dubbed "the Divine Family", who are further discussed in a [[Folklore#Freefolk_Pamphlets|number of pamphlets]] distributed by the Free Folk.

===Judgement 75===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Creighton Blackewater
* '''Judgement:''' It has been one year since we freed the slaves at Rachensgrab and we have done nothing to help them. We killed their pretender god, burned its temple, freed its slaves, and plunder its vault for ourselves. Prosperity teaches us to despise those who take without giving, but we took everything from Rachensgrab without giving anything to the slaves. Now we take more by trading with the Bailiffs of the Guttered Flame. I call upon the Empire to right this wrong and see that the former slaves of Rachensgrab claim the just rewards of their labours.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1429-204)
* '''Notes:''' Rachensgrab was an island city-state in the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Steel|Sea of Steel]], a centre for the international slave trade [[Burning|destroyed by Imperial forces]] following the Winter Solstice 384YE. The majority of the slaves freed in the fall of Rachensgrab were taken in by [[the Commonwealth]], with only a few choosing to make the journey to the Empire. The Bailiffs of the Guttered Flame are a group of heralds from the [[Ephisis|City of Gold and Lead]] who recently [[Farewell_wanderlust#Wages_of_Wickedness|offered deals]] to Imperial magicians relating to the estate of the former [[Ephisis#Pharam_Vex.2C_Voivode_of_Chains|Voivode of Chains]], a lieutenant of Ephisis involved in the slave trade before their destruction at the hands of Imperial forces.
===Judgement 76===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Galahad Avalone
* '''Judgement:''' We wish to announce the judgement of the troubadours or Dawn as to the Champions this year. Ambition - Catrine Words the "Unbelivably Magical" (2nd year): Courage - Laudine du Lac (previously Vigilance): Loyalty - Armand Remys (2nd Year): Vigilance- Morien de Carsenere (Previously Love, Glory, Ambition): Wisdom - Dindrane de Cantharos: Prosperity - Talis: Pride - Bors de Carsenere (Previously Prosperity): Way - Claude Videre (2nd year, previously Wisdom): Love - Claudia Lovelorn (Previously Courage): Glory - the Hounds of Glory.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (183-0)
* '''Notes:''' Each Autumn the [[troubadour|troubadours]] of [[Dawn]] crown a number of [[Dawn_religious_beliefs|champions of virtue]], as well as champions of Love and Glory who receive small gifts from the people of the nation in recognition of their achievements. These are distinct from the [[Create_titles_of_Champions_of_Virtue|Champions of Virtue]] appointed by the [[Imperial Synod]].

===Judgement 78===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Tarquinius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' Since we raised a judgement refusing to aid the League until they proved that they were more than petty opportunists they have: 1) Paid mithril to erect statues that help to protect us. 2) Publicly acknowledged that a reckoning is due. 3) Assigned a reckoner and opened negotiations. The League have proven in word and deed that we are not just dealing with petty opportunists. The people taking these steps demonstrate a genuine intention to build a future for Spiral that benefits all of its residents. There is still much work to be done and our spires will remain apart from their city until it is complete, but it would now be appropriate to once again use the mithril block to defend their minds from the plateau, though we are not yet ready to share its secrets.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (345-0)
* '''Notes:''' This relates to the complex situation in [[Spiral]] since it [[Windfall|became part of]] [[the League]]. It refers to the [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_67|mandate enacted by Lepidina]], urging that the secrets of [[Spiral#The_Block|the Block]] (which helps mitigate the effects of living in Spiral) [[The_fate_of_the_many#A_Precious_Secret|not be shared]] outside the nation.

===Judgement 79===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Aspar
* '''Judgement:''' Embrace your past, never be ashamed of it. Sulemaine i Taziel's teachings are timeless, and we take inspiration from them, but her legacy now belongs to us. The Sword Scholars of Urizen have found Sulemaine's limits and we have gone beyond them. To venerate Sulemaine without question is to have learned nothing from her lessons. We encourage all Sword Scholars to forge their own path, free from the shackles of the past. Interrogate the world with your blade and with your mind, be unfaltering, be relentless, question everything, and find your own truth.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (328-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, repudiating the legacy of [[Sulemaine|Sulemaine i Taziel]]. The Urizen Assembly had previously endorsed the teachings of this controversial figure, [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_100|stating in a mandate]] in 383YE that they were "''the perfect epitome of the Urizeni spirit - pure calculating reason unhindered by emotion or pity''."

===Judgement 80===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Atushak i Fijadoz i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' Each summit our senators and dhomiro agree on infrastructure projects that are the key priorities for the nation. Our prosperity should be used to support these strategic projects before shorter term tactical/personal gains which will have less benefit in the long run.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (116-7)
* '''Notes:''' The Freeborn people fiercely protect their right to decide how to spend their wealth, meaning the decision whether to invest in "national projects" or to donate to charity are always left to the individual. The assembly has also urged their people to [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_71|contribute to the grand endeavour]] - the sacred city in [[Bastion]] - meaning that there is [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|little interest]] in statements that urge the people to support other projects at the current time.
===Judgement 84===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Palladius
* '''Judgement:''' Wisdom is finding the right question. The Apulian Orcs say power is a crown, but virtue is its own reward, the virtuous uplift then pe(?). But only one (?) wear a crown. We bring the (?)enge of Wisdom to the Apulian orcs so they can assure that virtue is their highest calling.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (399-28)
* '''Notes:''' This statement was unfortunately water damaged so some sections were illegible. It appears to refer to the [[chords|spiritual beliefs]] of the Apulian Orcs, and their integration with the Way.
===Judgement 85===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tabris, Son of Armisael
* '''Judgement:''' As the Free Folk complete their pilgrimage around the Empire, the time will come for them to settle and find a new home. The Highguard national assembly has a statement of principle in place, recognising them as kindred souls, and inviting them to join the Highborn nation. We encourage priests from all over the Empire who may be hosting Freefolk to advise them of Highguard's invitation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1366-220)
* '''Notes:''' The Free Folk are former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves who are currently engaged in a [[Folklore|pilgrimage across the Empire]]. A number of them are also [[Folklore#Study_and_Spirituality|studying the Way with Highborn priests]], taking advantage of scholarships paid for by the benefactors of Highguard. The invitational statement referred to may be [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_127|Judgement 127]] from 384YE Autumn Equinox, raised by Brother Aemon, which was upheld by the Highborn assembly but did not receive a greater majority. It could also be in reference to [[#Judgement 36|Judgement 36]] from this season, raised by Nekoda of the Shattered Tower.

===Judgement 86===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Chauntecleer Words
* '''Judgement:''' The telling of tales within Dawn is one of our cherished traditions for the instruction of virtues. Dawn thanks all those who took part in the Summer Contest of Words for continuing this, in particular our winner the Earl of Fools for their tale of Food Hygiene, as judged by the acclaim of our children.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (217-0)

===Judgement 87===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Vivane Knotes
* '''Judgement:''' We ask the Assembly to consider a series of judgements seeking consensus on the interpretations of the tradition of Black Knights. This is the first and pertains to the physical act of girding. Ideally a Black Knight would gird in isolation to maintain absolute secrecy. However this is not always practical; the entire tradition of girding exists because help may be required to put on harness. And sometimes an act can be made more glorious through an element of co-ordination. However girding as a group should be done in private, and any so witnessing understand the requirement for absolute discretion. It is definitely not appropriate to either gird; or announce the intent to gird identifiably, as a Black Knight in public. This completely undermines the premise that those taking part or observing do not know whom a Black Knight is, and therefore cannot attribute their deeds beyond "Dawn".
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (273-42)
* '''Notes:''' This statement discusses the [[Dawn_hearth_magic|hearth magic]] of [[Dawn]], as well as the tradition of the ''black knights'' and their singular [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Heraldry|heraldry]].
===Judgement 88===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Pickers Blackleap
* '''Judgement:''' As the prosperity assembly watches those that benefit from the white granite auction, it is clear Landon Hawcome said the quiet part out loud. He is now so financially insulated from competition that he can agree the lowest price for himself, while stopping others from getting on the ladder, and preventing them from being as prosperous as he can be. We believe the most prosperous individuals should show their virtue by nurturing healthy competition in the Bourse auctions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (150-56)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Auction of the Seats]] for [[white granite]] resources takes place each Summer Solstice.
===Judgement 89===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Grey Stone
* '''Judgement:''' On behalf of Quay Stone "Tomorrow's traditions grow from the seeds of today." Quay Stone of House Stone is gathering less-known Marcher maritime traditions. As the Empire's attention turns towards the Sea of Snow, the Marcher Assembly calls for Marchers to seek out and share the learned wisdom of our people, so that these traditions may better serve our nation and the world - whether it be through fishing, making war, or enabling others to march to safer shores.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (254-0)
===Judgement 90===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Kaywenn de Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' What we win we proudly defend, not just for us as Dawnish but also those in the Barrens who accept us as liberators. The Druj always return, we should stay ever vigilant and prepared for that inevitability.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (237-10)
===Judgement 91===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Tuuli
* '''Judgement:''' We caution all to remain vigilant against Blood-on-the-Snow after the upheaval this year, with three cultist leaders still at large. Share with your neighbours, keep each other warm, and remind each other that this is not forever. We are scions sired by a storm and shall weather whatever winter brings.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (342-0)
* '''Notes:''' As with [[#Judgement 92|Judgement 92]], this statement relates to the lingering threat of the [[eternal]] [[Agramant]] in the wake of the liberation of [[Sermersuaq]], especially the agents of ''Blood-on-the-Snow'' still believed to be at large - [[Anyone_but_you#Kaarina_White-Eye|Kaarine White-Eye]], [[Anyone_but_you#Maarik_the_Golden_Tongue|Maarik the Golden Tongue]], and [[Anyone_but_you#Wemba_the_Bloody|Wemba the Bloody]].
===Judgement 92===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Ourania Neofoti of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' We caution all to remain vigilant against Blood-on-the-Snow after the upheaval this year, with three cultist leaders still at large. We urge all those who follow wisdom to question those who offer boons and easy solutions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (412-0)
* '''Notes:''' As with [[Judgement #91|Judgement 91]], this statement relates to the influence of the [[eternal]] [[Agramant]] in the wake of the liberation of [[Sermersuaq]], especially the agents of ''Blood-on-the-Snow'' still believed to be at large - [[Anyone_but_you#Kaarina_White-Eye|Kaarine White-Eye]], [[Anyone_but_you#Maarik_the_Golden_Tongue|Maarik the Golden Tongue]], and [[Anyone_but_you#Wemba_the_Bloody|Wemba the Bloody]].
===Judgement 96===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' With regards the Barrens and the future of its people we remind the Empire of its long history of heterodoxy and accepting non-Imperials and non-Way peoples living in our lands, treated them well, and sought their input when we felt it useful. This includes the Mournwold Orcs, Great Forest Orcs, Sandfishers, Hylje, ex-Iron Confederacy, the Free Folk, and many others. The Empire is ten nations, Wintermark is three people. They will see the value of The Way over time. Rapidly putting them to the sword <u>or</u> ignoring their input imperils souls we could otherwise save.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (312-0)

===Judgement 97===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rooslan Stanvih Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' On behalf of the students of the Academy, especially Luca Lutaboravich Glinka, the Synod recognises that while boggarts of the realms can be troublesome there is no need to hurt them. With the right tools they can be herded and they can be bargained with for mutual advantage. We encourage the citizens of the Empire to first try diplomacy rather than aggression to more effectively deal with any boggart trouble. Remember, ambition teaches us it is better to try and fail, than fail to try.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1655-26)
* '''Notes:''' Boggarts are creatures of the realms roughly analogous to vermin ; much weaker than heralds but still capable of posing a threat to Imperial citizens. Recent Empire-wide enchantments have seen boggarts drawn from the [[A murder of one|Spring realm]], [[Inkpot_gods#Vermin_of_the_Cities|Autumn realm]], and even the realm of Day making a nuisance of themselves.
===Judgement 98===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Friar Rosemary Stamp
* '''Judgement:''' The Marcher assembly supports the decision of Lizzie Boholt-Stamp, Senator of Bregasland, to send the inquisitors in to Bregasland to find, and bring to justice, those who supported the Mathilda Fisher rebellion. The Marcher assembly calls upon Bregas priests to support justice and provide clemency pleas for the virtuous.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (258-16)
* '''Notes:''' This statement appears to relate to the [[When_Spring_comes#War_Requiem_.28Bregasland.29|tense situation]] in [[Bregasland]] following the withdrawal of the occupying forces. At the behest of the Senator for Bregasland the [[Imperial Senate]] has [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Instruct_Magistrates_to_investigate_Bregasland|instructed magistrates]] to [[When Spring comes#Send In the Magistrates|use an overwhelming show of force to gather evidence]] against anyone who offered support to the Fisher regime.

===Judgement 99===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Jenny Arbor
* '''Judgement:''' People of the Marches, those who cast Thunderous Deluge have been facing consequences for their actions. This is despite the Constitutional Court makingdirect legal recourse impossible by effectively giving them a declaration of Endorsement. So, Marcher covens have been cursing those involved in the casting so they feel at least some of the pain we felt. Most took their curses with courage acknowledging their mistakes, and are trying to make amends. One - Mercurico, did not have the Courage to do this, so will continue to educate him until he finds his courage.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (116-10)
* '''Notes:''' This relates to the [[Bad_blood#The_Names_on_the_Wind|fallout around]] the performance of an Empire-wide [[Thunderous Deluge]] in [[Bad_blood#The_Names_on_the_Wind|Autumn384YE]].
===Judgement 100===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Cassia Sikweaver
* '''Judgement:''' The Prosperous are not selfish, all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it. Last season, the Varushkan boyars donated the use of an Imperial Wayleave to ensure that the Gardens of Pallas could be built in Zenith. We the Urizen National Assembly Witness this act of sharing. Be it hearthside hospitality or uplifting their fellows at a time when much feels broken and uncertain, the Varushkan people have held out their hand to us, and we thank them from the depths of our souls. Despise those who take without giving - this act will not be forgotten by the people of Urizen.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (314-0)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[commission]] creating new [[Reconstruct Gardens of Pallas|Gardens]] in [[Zenith]], following the [[appraisal]] of [[Restoration_and_renewal#Restoring_the_Gardens|Summer 385YE]].
===Judgement 101===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Galene Netherwatch
* '''Judgement:''' The Urizeni National Assembly recognises the courage and loyalty of the people of Spiral. We are now at the negotiating stage with the League. Do not sacrifice what does not need to be sacrificed. I, as Convenor of the Urizen National Assembly, assure you we will get you the recompense you deserve.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (229-91). The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 223.
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[A question of loyalty|complex situation]] in [[Spiral]]. The Urizen assembly does not have a [[Imperial title|formally recognised]] convenor, although Galene Netherwatch has previously been [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_27|endorsed]] as fulfilling the role.

===Judgement 102===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Aristeia Starchaser
* '''Judgement:''' We exalt the actions of Serenus Starsong for creating an arcane projection like no other before. Then with the coven of Storm's End of Urizen, this was cast to reveal the - previously unknown - names of the stars of the Phoenix. This is the first, magnificent step towards understanding the power of the constellations that so many invoke and study. They were the first, and this will forever be an enduring part of all their legacies.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (397-36). The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 401.
* '''Notes:''' [[The Phoenix]] is one of the [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]]. The names of the individual stars that make up the constellation have recently become common knowledge, and the statement draws a link between this event and the divination performed by the Storm's End coven.

===Judgement 103===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Adón i Martán i Erigo
* '''Judgement:''' We have the opportunity to rescue slaves rebelling in the city of Marlien in Maracoss, Asavea. We call on corsairs to carry these escapees to safety in the Empire once they reach the Calatropos coast.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (160-10)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to events in the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. It urges Freeborn [[corsair|corsairs]] to come to help evacuate freed slaves from the satrapy of Maracoss - the same satrapy from which both the Free Folk and the Marracossan exiles of Trajadoz hail. It has created an [[opportunity]] for corsairs to [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_interlude#The_Calatropos_Coast_Evacuation|take part]] in the evacuation if they wish.

===Judgement 106===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Vauraus Korppitkotka
* '''Judgement:''' Wintermark have Pride in our scops, not only do they give the worthy their names, they keep alive and share the epic tales of our heroes and history. However, we are not alone, our traditions are important across the Empire, but they have no gathering place where the best can come together to share their great stories. It is our ambition to create a centre of tradition, to which scops and storytellers from across the Empire may travel to share the stories of the Empire. But it must also keep them safe from those who wish them harm. We call on all in Wintermark to share in our ambition and pride, to find a location in which to create a gathering place to bring together all the scops of the Empire in safety and pride.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (283-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Wintermark assembly has sent Eldrid Vestardottir to [[#Judgement 113|enact a mandate]] urging the people of Wintermark to contribute to the construction of a [[Blood will thicken|sacred city]] in [[Bastion]]. With the nation focused on this construction, response to a call to create a centre of tradition for the [[scop|scops]] is likely to be muted at best in the near future.
===Judgement 107===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Caoimhe Tend-Fallen
* '''Judgement:''' Commonwealth paladins have requested true liao to remove a spontaneous aura of great strength. We should determine the truth of their claim that this is an Anarchy aura and not a miraculous aura of a true virtue. If true liao is required to remove it, an Empire priest should be sent to perform this.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (97-13)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Commonwealth#Religion|priests]] of the [[Commonwealth]] argue that ''all'' [[aura|auras]], regardless of provenance or specific detail, are a form of oppression that subverts free will.

===Judgement 108===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kennet the Mummer
* '''Judgement:''' Words mean things. To liberate the Barrens would be to free its people from any rule to which they do not consent - ours included. To conquer would be to claim their lands for ourselves and compel them to submit or flee. We shall see now if the Empire makes a liar of Sir Dindrane.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (644-314)
* '''Notes:''' This seems to refer to the [[Not_to_conquer|extremely complicated]] situation in the newest [[Dawn|Dawnish]] territory of [[the Barrens]].
===Judgement 109===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Silk Forteas
* '''Judgement:''' Stories carry the Pride of Navarr The Magpies have been contracted by Rhisiart Dancewalker to discover the whereabouts of the Greensteel Spear of Isaella Thorndance. We encourage all steadings and stridings with stories and records of Isaella's deeds to share them. We are especially interested in the descendants of the Navarri honour guard sent to retrieve her body, and their tale of that day. Through sharing such inspiring tales we hope to gain a better understanding of this exemplar.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (328-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Isaella]] is an exemplar of Courage, perhaps best known in the wider Empire for her role in the death of [[Emperor Nicovar]]. The [[Lepidean Librarian]] has the power to commission [[historical research]] into the lives of [[paragons and exemplars]].
===Judgement 110===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Nisha Strascovich
* '''Judgement:''' The Cold Sun seeks to tear us down. Pride teaches us to uplift each other. Now is the time to celebrate our art and culture, to recognise the Pride to be found around us. Pride is the antithesis of the Cold Sun and can be a bastion against all they stand for. Celebrate our pride in the Empire of those in Anvil and home.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (484-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Isaella|ongoing assault]] of the [[eternal]] known as [[Cold Sun]] on the Empire. The eternals' emissaries appear to particular favour destroying places with a connection to the arts.
===Judgement 116===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Staracsned Orzel
* '''Judgement:''' Rejoice! Rejoice! People of Dawn the Rod of the Sun is returned to us. Lady Nineve Orzel, Ser Lanval van Narood, Peter Fletcher, Myric of House Cordraco, and Enchantress Morien Carsenere undertook epic glorious quest from which only three returned. All their names should be heralded throughout the land and their story told. Rejoice!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (234-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Rod of the Sun was a piece of regalia carried by the pre-Imperial [[Dawn monarchy|monarchs of Dawn]], believed lost during the reign of [[Empress Brannan]].
===Judgement 117===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' The Highborn Assembly recognises the Pride of the Imperial Orcs in their campaign to reclaim items of worth in Necropolis during the last season. Let this show how we reach together, following the example of Kethry and her cultural Pride, in restoring what was lost by the orcs as we embrace our shared past and look forward, one Empire united by the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (362-10)
* '''Notes:''' [[Kethry]] is a renowned [[paragons and exemplars|paragon]] of [[Pride]]. Among other things this statement appears to refer to [[The_cities_and_the_city#Necropolis:_Worth|recent events]] in the [[Necropolis#The_Necropolis|Necropolis]] involving the [[Imperial Orcs]]' quest for items of [[Worth]].
===Judgement 118===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Pacheco "Patches" i Shartha i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise and thank the shared Wisdom and shared Prosperity relating to the Jotun burial mound in Kharaman. General Iron Osric. The Imperial Orcs. Vanama i Perez i Riqueza. Maria i Espin i Guerra. The Freeborn Dhomiros.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (126-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Between_two_mounds#Dust.2C_Flame.2C_and_Glass|raising of a burial mound]] in [[Kahraman]], covering the [[Jotun]] dead who [[Shallows_and_miseries#The_Flames_of_Fort_Braydon|fell during the Battle of Fort Braydon]].
===Judgement 119===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Alvaro i Verena i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' Corsairs, have Courage in your convictions. Do what you feel is right and reject those who would command you who you did not choose to follow. The Freeborn National Assembly support the Corsairs in their endeavour to have their own leader.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (173-0)
===Judgement 122===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Percival Goldvein
* '''Judgement:''' The sept of the Barrens are neccessary ally for the eradication of the Druj, they will never trust us if we call ourselves liberators and act as conquerors. We call for Dawn to show restraint when dealing with the Montanians. There is no glory in the slaughter of the weak.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (82-38)
* '''Notes:''' Addresses the [[Not to conquer|extremely complex situation]] in the Barrens, specifically to the [[Not_to_conquer#Montanians|Montanian]] - humans with a strong [[briar]] lineage connected to the [[Freedom Heresy]] and the [[Malign_spiritual_presences|malign spiritual presence]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|anarchy]]..

===Judgement 123===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Redhand Nirak
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Imperial Orc assembly, are firm believers in Loyalty. Urizen has been thoroughly fucked by the treaty with Kalliact's Apulian Orcs. We encourage all orcs to do whatever they can to: economically, politically, spiritually, and socially to help the Urizeni to get their debt of reckoning from the League. We DO NOT endorse any orc taking military or violent action. The situation is difficult enough without orcs attacking fellow Imperial on either side will only make things worse. "The Prosperous are not selfish; all that is worthwhile is shared." The Urizeni citizens of Spiral deserve the shared benefits of our prosperity where the League has failed to show ANY.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (26-26)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Windfall|recent]] [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment|assignment]] of [[Spiral]] to [[the League]], and the [[A question of loyalty|complex situation]] developing there.

===Judgement 124===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Ironvigil Rikkz the Relentless
* '''Judgement:''' The Change of Doctrine proposed by Clarice Novarion will cause serious thought and concern among the Empire's priests. I remind you all that Imperial Doctrine is a living document that must change and grow as the Empire does. We must not <u>fear</u> change, but embrace <u>Wisdom</u> when we find it. Our Virtue is strong enough.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (235-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[#Judgement_3|judgement]] enacting a [[change of doctrine]] raised this season.
===Judgement 125===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pyetr Srodislar Fyodorov
* '''Judgement:''' True liao is our most important spiritual tool. The structure of power in our great Empire is that of accountability - however the control of this vital good is in the hands of an unelected cabal, the Gatekeepers, whose customs are dedicated by grace, not law. Grace is not a virtue. True liao serves as our closest lifeline to the Labyrinth of Ages, and along with historical research, is what drives our understanding of the Way, the Virtues, and Paragonhood. We have a duty to strive to clarify and crystallise our doctrine towards spiritual truth. This is not possible with true liao in the hands of the Gatekeeper gang. There must be reform! Fellow priesthood, have the Ambition to spiritual truth, the Courage to face it, the Vigilance to not fall to needless dogma - Pride, Prosperity, Loyalty, and greater Wisdom will follow!
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (291-1288)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]] are responsible for determining who receives the majority of the [[liao#True Liao|true liao]] created in the Empire.

===Judgement 128===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Tree of Goatsbridge
* '''Judgement:''' The Priests of the Marches state that the Landskeepers and Sadogua, Brother of Wizards, are allies and that he, and his heralds, are welcome in the Marches, and that no Marcher Wizards need to worry about speaking to him or accepting his boons.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (100-40)
* '''Notes:''' [[Sadogua]], also known as the Brother of Wizards, is an [[eternal]] of the Night realm concerned with magic and magicians.
===Judgement 129===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Konstantin Rabovich Bolotnikov
* '''Judgement:''' This assembly endorses LINDIR THORNHEART as Champion of Vigilance, despite the unfortunate circumstances surrounding their appointment.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (99-64)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Champion of Vigilance]], [[appointment|appointed]] by the assembly during the [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_73|Summer Solstice]].
===Judgement 130===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Aemon
* '''Judgement:''' Highguard! Vigilance teaches us to seek out falsehood and expose the truth! Too long have we been looking outwards, focusing on the heterodoxies of others that we have neglected to assess our own cultural challenges! In our complacency, we allow our lingering attachment to Purity to let us believe our lineaged siblings to be inherently distrusted as unwitting agents of the Realms. This lacks Loyalty, Pride, Vigilance, and Wisdom. Past life visions have revealed to us that lineaged folk of today were unlineaged in the past, and vice versa, with no known correlation between virtuous and unvirtuous behaviour. Therefore, if a human spirit looks the same and remains the same through reincarnation, we must conclude in Courage and Wisdom that lineage is a condition of the body, not the Spirit.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (350-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement refers to the changing attitudes towards [[lineage]] among the [[Highguard|highborn]].
===Judgement 131===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Landine du Lac
* '''Judgement:''' Vigilance teaches us not to only prepare for, but to also thwart the malice of our enemies. While our people Prosper, our Ambition to defeat the Druj remaining within and threatening our new borders.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (214-10)
===Judgement 132===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Saqui Heroes' Champion
* '''Judgement:''' The heralds of Cold Sun have poured into our homes, our mountains and marshes. They seek to destroy art, beauty, and mysteries. Their force is strong, their power destructive. The Wise to to take refuge in the fortresses raised by magic. The Courageous garrison the beacons to protect our nation. The storm can never break us, and neither will Cold Sun.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (262-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Cold Sun]] is an [[eternal]] of the Day Realm whose soldiers are engaged in a [[To_the_last_syllable|military campaign]] across the Empire, which appears to some to be prioritising the destruction of places with a connection to the arts. It urges those prepared to fight the invaders to deploy in support of the Beacons of WIntermark - unique [[fortification|fortifications]] in [[Hahnmark]] and [[Kallavesa]].
===Judgement 133===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Mauriac
* '''Judgement:''' Our forces in the Barrens have a stated goal that they are not there as conquerors, but to liberate the people there from the tyranny of the Druj. It is unfortunate that the Barrens contains heretics who hold Freedom to be a virtue; freedom is a quality which can be very fine in moderation but horrifically destructive if taken to excess. The clarity of wisdom teaches us that to help others to gain insight may be the most effective way to use your knowledge. We must not make hypocrites of ourselves through heavy-handed tactics, but it falls upon to educate the Barrens to the truth of the Way and spread doctrinal illumination.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (236-56)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[Not to conquer|extremely complex situation]] in the Barrens, specifically to the [[Not_to_conquer#Montanians|Montanian]] - humans with a strong [[briar]] lineage connected to the [[Freedom Heresy]] and the [[Malign_spiritual_presences|malign spiritual presence]] of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|anarchy]]..

===Judgement 136===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Delmara i Ruiloba i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' As the treaty with the Grendel comes to an end, it is important to note Feroz is an integral part of the Brass Coast, and with its dust coating our feet we will go to reclaim it.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (175-10)
* '''Notes:''' During the Winter Solstice 383YE, the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_66|enacted a mandate]] that urged their people to abandon [[Feroz]]. This lead to an [[opportunity]] to [[Struggle with the sea|evacuate]] the territory under the nose of the [[Grendel]] governor. The mandate meant accepting that the Freeborn do not expect the territory to be recovered any time soon, making it unlikely that statements by the assembly relating to recovering the territory will lead to further opportunities.
===Judgement 137===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Vaukahainen Saltfoot
* '''Judgement:''' The proud uplift and inspire, they do not denigrate others. The Jotun have shown great pride in respecting the dead of the Empire, and the sacred resting places of Wintermark heroes. We encourage those fighting the Jotun to respect their dead in turn, and leave their sacred sites undesecrated. The wealth of the Jotun ancestors is <u>not</u> found in their grave goods, but in their legacy and inspiration.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1456-107)
* '''Notes:''' This statement appears to related to [[Between two mounds|Jotun concerns]] regarding theft from their burial sites by Imperial soldiers, especially the Freeborn.
===Judgement 140===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Eskah Solestride
* '''Judgement:''' The Dance of Blood was a loyal and vigilant aspect of Navarr's culture and military. They were lost in Liathaven against a horde of Jotun, their vigilance never wavered and they remained loyal to their oaths to the end. We would encourage those Navarri who feel the call of the Dance of Blood to embrace its merciless Doctrine and work to restore its legacy.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (88-142)
* '''Notes:''' The Dance of Blood were a Navarr [[Imperial army|army]] disbanded while fighting the [[Jotun]] in 245YE. They were infamous for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel|cruel]] tactics, easily a match for those of the [[Iron Helms]].

===Judgement 141===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Reynard Forester
* '''Judgement:''' We, the people of Dawn throw open the doors of our houses to the Free Folk. In prosperity, let us share our homes with our cousins from the land of Asavea. In Courage, let us do as Ashwine did, find the innocent a home after their virtuous pilgrimage. Let them find GLORY.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (192-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Free Folk are former [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] slaves who practice the Way, albeit in an unfamiliar fashion. Many have spent the last year engaged in a [[Folklore#The_Free_Folk_Pilgrimage|pilgrimage to inspirational locations]] across the Empire, with the support of the [[Imperial Synod]]. The [[Lady of the Proffered Hand]], and the people of [[Dawn]] were first to welcome them to the Empire following their liberation.
===Judgement 142===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lepidina
* '''Judgement:''' We invite the Urizeni priests and their congregations to join us in dialogue with the League bishops and the Apulians to further our collective understanding of the Way, and lift each other up in virtue. Much as Temeschwar acknowledges its Varushkan heritage, so the city of Apulian should also embrace the existing Urizeni culture now the League has committed to a Reckoning.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (263-10)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[A_question_of_loyalty|ongoing unfolding situation]] in Spiral between the [[Urizen|Urizeni]] and [[the League]].
===Judgement 146===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Anastasiya Lukashovna Volkov
* '''Judgement:''' The Loyalty assembly recognises it owes proof of word and deed to deliver upon the reckoning between the Urizen people and the League regarding Spiral. The Loyalty assembly urges all parties to negotiate in good spirit to find a non-violent solution. Let us work together to reforge our bonds.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (265-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[A_question_of_loyalty|ongoing unfolding situation]] in Spiral between [[the League]] and [[Urizen|Urizeni]].
===Judgement 147===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Jacob Talbot
* '''Judgement:''' We call upon all Marchers to shun and cease the sale and supply of food to Urizen for the loss of Prosperous crops caused by cursing. The message we wish to send above all is that our means to feed the Empire and our own Marcher families has suffered too much. and that this animosity regarding rituals cast by Urizeni magicians should end. It is also our hope that greater animosities between our two nations will end with this statement, whether our citizens attend Anvil or not.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (20-166)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to [[the Marches|Marcher]] unhappiness around powerful enchantments that have [[Resonance_and_mitigation#Thresh_the_Fields|damaged crops and farms]] across the Empire.

===Judgement 148===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Friar Graffanner
* '''Judgement:''' We, the Marcher National Assembly, call upon our fleet captains, to participate in the multinational opportunity to provide safe passage to those fleeing slavery in Maracossa.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (192-0). The greater majority threshold for this judgement was 193.
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to events in the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. It urges [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[fleet|ship-captains]] to come to help evacuate freed slaves from the satrapy of Maracoss - the same satrapy from which both the Free Folk and the Marracossan exiles of Trajadoz hail. It has created an [[opportunity]] for corsairs to [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_interlude#The_Calatropos_Coast_Evacuation|take part]] in the evacuation if they wish.
===Judgement 150===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Martha i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' We the national assembly of the Freeborn and the Imperial Fleetmaster charge all Freeborn fleet owners to raid shipping of those enemy nations that seek to do us harm in the Bay of Catazar. "When the peace treaty ends make them remember these waters are ours!"
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (167-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the end of the [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE|peace treaty]] with the [[Grendel]], and the [[Ship_to_wreck#Unleashed|raids]] erupting in its wake.

===Judgement 151===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Paulus Adelaar von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' Ambitious citizens! The Empire is engaged in the great endeavour of our age: expanding our borders and integrating new and foreign peoples without recourse to the barbarity of slavery. Apulian Questioners (their priests) wish to understand how to wield the powers of the Synod! We, the following Bishops of the League have the Ambition to show them how a Bishop does this. Paulus Adelaar van Holberg - Lia Adelaar von Holberg - Sebastiano di Spiral - Corrado de Regario - Beno di Carva (sadly unable to attend Anvil).
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (220-15)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to questions of the [[Chords|religious beliefs]] of the Apulian Orcs of [[the League]].

===Judgement 152===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Anatoly Vassian Tatishchev
* '''Judgement:''' The Varushkan national assembly calls upon fleet owners of the nation to prepare for malice, yet thwart malice before it strikes against you. War is coming. Raise every sail against our foes.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (302-0)
===Judgement 153===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Vaclav Mladenovich Kosti
* '''Judgement:''' The Varushkan national assembly invites Skywise Gralka and the Sunstorm sept to visit the Palace of Orieb in order to seek secrets. May our allies and friend be welcome to seek to fulfil their ambition and contribute to our Wisdom.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (302-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Ossium#The_Palace_of_Orieb|Palace of Orieb]] in [[Ossium]] is believed to have been the residence of one of the [[Druj_lore#Buruk_Tepel|Buruk Tepel]]. It is overseen by the [[Apothecary of Orieb]].

===Judgement 154===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Marzanna
* '''Judgement:''' We the priests of Varushka call upon the builders of the Deep Chamber to dedicate to wisdom. We wish for priests of wisdom and wardens to go and ensure their safe return from the mines.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (292-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to the [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_the_Deep_Place|construction of an underground chamber]] in the Mountains of Brez by the [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Speakers_of_the_Void|cabalists of Void]], commissioned by the [[Imperial Senate]].
===Judgement 155===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* '''Judgement:''' In Varushka we respect our Elders! The Northern Eagle are the oldest army in Varushka and they have served us loyally for as long as they have existed. We ask that Varushkans have Pride in the Northern Eagle and support them. Pride, Cousins.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (302-0), with Primacy
===Judgement 156===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Maja Świętosława Przewałski
* '''Judgement:''' We the priests of Varushka urge the wardens to show vigilance and to strengthen the wards of the roads and borders of Tolvoli and around Tolvoli to prepare for the malice of the dubik being fed. The Wardens should also seek to thwart malice before it strikes against us and seek our signs and evidence of <u>the</u> dubik with the aid of Spring magicians and Volhovs, to make a bargain to contain the growing dubik numbers.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (302-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to relate to the establishment of the slaughterhouse at Tolvoli, the dubik at the old [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Heart_of_the_Tempest|Heart of the Tempest]], and the role of the [[Tolvoli Butcher]].
===Judgement 157===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ira of the Flame Beneath the Earth
* '''Judgement:''' We call to those who have served in Highguard armies: the Unbound Steel Hall of Lost Chapters has been taken from us by the Cold Sun and our proud history desecrated. Now, they gather in Bastion. Bastion must be defended. Bring the guardian, the cataphract, the unconquered. Don your armour once more. General Asenath raises the hallowed banner of the Thundering Tide. Bearing a miracle of Courage, General Asenath does not fear to act, and neither should we. Loyalty demands that we strike quickly so our forces may go on to help protect the lands of our sibling nations once our home is safe. You have served before, we ask that you serve again.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (570-0)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Cold Sun]] is an [[eternal]] of the Day Realm whose soldiers are engaged in a [[To_the_last_syllable|military campaign]] across the Empire. The [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_.28Defunct.29|Thundering Tide]] were a Highborn army disbanded during the reign of [[Empress Mariika]].
===Judgement 158===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Vasilmir Radovanovna Esskivic
* '''Judgement:''' Despise the thieving bandit. Orathator of the Hourglass engages in prosperous trade with Varushka. We ask Wardens of Varushka to protect their caravans, and ensure their goods do not fall into the hands of those who did not earn them.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (290-12), with Primacy.
* '''Notes:''' Orathator of the Hourglass is a [[Thule]] warlock who leads a [[Pride_and_prejudice#Masks_of_the_Trees_and_Hills|group of traders]] active across [[Varushka]].
===Judgement 159===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Solas of the Waxing Sun
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise the need to investigate the motivations behind casting Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths and the benefits of being judged by our peers in this matter. We encourage members of <u>other nations</u> to bring those responsible for the casting to inquisition before the virtue assemblies.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (262-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[Resonance and mitigation|controversial]] performance of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths]] ritual, whose recent performance has had both [[Shining like fire|benefits]] and [[To the last syllable|undeniable downsides]].

===Judgement 160===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lochias
* '''Judgement:''' The Sentinels of Urizen are rightly proud of their martial arete. We laud and exalt the Courage and Vigilance of the soldiers of the Citadel Guard and the captains of independent units who have kept their long watch on our borders. But Loyalty should not mean blind obedience. Even the strongest may err, but deceivers will lie again.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (204-10)
* '''Notes:''' The [[Citadel Guard]] are the army of [[Urizen]], primarily composed of [[Sentinel|sentinels]].
===Judgement 163===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' Inspired by recent exchanges between Highguard and the Imperial Orcs, we the Highborn national assembly offer Peerless Kinship to aid the Imperial Orcs how they see fit. Let us forge strong ties, and step boldly into the future.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (504-0)
* '''Notes:''' [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|Peerless kinship]] allows the [[Highguard|Highborn]] people to support one of their sibling nations in the coming months. See also [[#Judgement 192|Judgement 192]].
===Judgement 165===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Ahraz i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' The election of the Senators is an important source of income to fund the projects of the Brass Coat. If you are paid to not place a bid you should show your Pride and declare it to the egregore and share a part of that money with them. If someone not of the Freeborn pays you to bid, either to ensure a candidate is elected or to prevent someone to be elected, you should declare this to the egregore. Show your courage and pride and deal with the elections openly and honestly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (161-0)
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership#Leading a territory|appointment]] of [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] [[Senator|senators]].
===Judgement 166===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Travid Longest Path
* '''Judgement:''' Prosperity compels us to strive and toil and enjoy the fruits of our labour. Lindir Thornheart and Oisean Streamwalker have worked tirelessly to fund the ilium needed to create an artefact to trade for the Shield of Vigilance from a 1 ring start. We wish to reward them with recognition from the assembly.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (125-0)
* '''Notes:''' The Shield of Vigilance likely refers to ''Bawn-Watch'' the [[Magic_items#Artefacts|artefact]] [[Pilgrim's Shield]] originally created by Ezkiah the Benefactor for the [[Champion of Vigilance]]. It is currently believed to be in the possession of the [[Axos|Axou]] scholar [[Ten_travellers_tales#Theodosia_of_Ipotavo|Theodosia of Ipotavo]].
===Judgement 167===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Eurybia Melampus di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' The Sword Scholars have demonstrated their Loyalty to the Empire by casting off Sulemaine. We the Loyalty assembly support this endeavour. They have identified and followed their loyalties within their hearts. Therefore will will raise their efforts up rather than tear them down.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (115-10)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.
===Judgement 168===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Hembeneth i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' During the Grendel treaty we had the time to rebuild and prepare. Now the treaty has ended we call on all citizens to route out the Grendel spies and be Vigilant of the threats that come from all around. Have Courage to oppose them when they enter our land and the Loyalty to aid our armies and feed our Corsairs who fight on our behalf with virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (169-0)
===Judgement 169===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Clytemnestra
* '''Judgement:''' The Sword Scholars of the Empire have chosen to put Sulemaine behind us. Now we will define what Sword Scholars are in the modern world. We will examine and debate our teachings and discard any that fall short. We will examine our role in the Empire, and the ways we can challenge, aid and defend the Empire, and those who seek to join the Empire and the Way. We will seek to realise our ambition to spread our teachings and become a sodality. As we have changed the Empire the Empire has changed us.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (242-10)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.

===Judgement 172===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Kosmas o Voskos of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' The Sword Scholars have examined their history and virtue, and have chosen to learn and change. They have chosen to leave Sulemaine behind and forge a new path. The Way assembly recognises this important step on their path of virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (85-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement supports the [[#Judgement 40|mandate]] enacted by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, which has [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|significant implications]] for the future of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] of [[Urizen]]. It may be important to note that the decision to turn away from the [[Sulemaine|founder of the movement]] is by no means universally supported by the sword scholars.
===Judgement 173===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Asier i Elia i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' We welcome the refugees from the Temple of the Way in Nemoria. We would offer them refuge at the Hand of Guerra in order to share knowledge of Virtue and the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (169-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to refer to the [[Ten_travellers_tales#Last_of_the_Faithful|Asavean pilgrims]] who visited [[Anvil]] during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 174===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Eli of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' We welcome the refugees from the Temple of the Way in Nemoria. We would offer them refuge at the Abbey of Reconciliation in order to share knowledge of virtue and the Way,
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (508-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement seems to refer to the [[Ten_travellers_tales#Last_of_the_Faithful|Asavean pilgrims]] who visited [[Anvil]] during the Autumn Equinox.

===Judgement 176===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Sister Meredith
* '''Judgement:''' The pursuit of virtue supersedes doctrine and the Law. If the Mournwold Orcs are willing to commit to living the life that they are living to the full extent of virtue and greatness, this assembly will welcome and defend them.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Mournwold Orcs]], and supports the mandate enacted in [[#Judgement 199|Judgement 199]].
===Judgement 180===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Father Edmund
* '''Judgement:''' Bushel Sykes betrayed his oath as an Imperial citizen, and yet his soul bore a spontaneous true aura of Loyalty. He knew what commanded his heart's devotion above all else, and he willingly paid the price for that. We recognise Bushel Sykes' Loyalty and his Virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (282-26)
* '''Notes:''' This statement appears to concern the death of [[When_Spring_comes#The_Death_of_Bushel_Sykes|Bushel Sykes]], the controversial poacher.
===Judgement 181===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Idanach Listing Beacon
* '''Judgement:''' True liao is a substance of great sanctity and great importance to the Way. it is vital that a suitably qualified body of priests oversee its distribution. In response to Pyetr Fyodorov in Judgement 125 we say that this is not the time to abolish the Gatekeepers. We instead encourage citizens to learn about the Gatekeepers and other ways whereby true liao is distributed. If the existing processes are unsatisfactory, they should offer <u>concrete</u> proposals for change.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1165-64)
* '''Notes:''' This statement refers to [[#Judgement 125|Judgement 125]], relating to the status of the [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]].

===Judgement 182===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Isaac of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement:''' Amongst the best of us there is still vice. Amongst the worst of us there is still virtue. No soul is beyond redemption. Each passage through the Labyrinth brings us forth anew. We call upon the magistrates to give those guilty of grave crimes the chance to (?) themselves in virtue against the Cold Sun until their embrace to the Labyrinth. The defence of Bastion is a defence of the Way!!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (480-16). The Greater Majority threshold for this judgement was 474.
===Judgement 183===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Lia Adelaar von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' We invite League Bishops and Scholars to join in dialogue with Urizeni priests and mages loyal to the Empire and our Apulian brethren, to further our understanding of the Way and lift us all up in Virtue. Much as Temeschwar acknowledges its Varushkan heritage, so the city of Apulian should include the best of Urizeni culture, once the threat of rebellion has passed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (280-0), the greater majority threshold for this judgement was 273.
* '''Notes:''' * '''Notes:''' This relates to the complex situation in [[Spiral]] since it [[Windfall|became part of]] [[the League]], as well as to the questions raised by the [[Chords|spiritual beliefs]] of the Apulian Orcs.
===Judgement 184===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Rowen Erdtree
* '''Judgement:''' Skywise Gralka's association with the Cold Sun and the Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths ritual was a contribution towards an inherently ambitious action. No matter your opinion of orcs, Skywise Gralka should not be punished for their contribution towards what was a damaging, but ambitious endeavour.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (124-32)
* '''Notes:''' Refers to the [[Resonance and mitigation|discussion]] around the controversial recent performance of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths]] ritual.
===Judgement 188===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' In the spirit of VIgilance, be aware that a threat is coming to the Coast. Now is the time to prepare with Wisdom, but in Pride remember to uplift our fellows. Support each other, support your armies and privateers, remember that resources unspent only go to waste - offer your hospitality to those that protect our lands and we are all sure to benefit. We have always had the Ambition of reclaiming what was ours, but what remains is in danger and protecting that is also part of that process. Take heart, it will not be easy, cleave to your courage and what loyalties you hold dear. Let virtue guide you in tumultuous times. '''Batten down the hatches in face of the storm'''.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (129-0)
===Judgement 190===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orcs
* '''Raised By:''' Skywise Gralka
* '''Judgement:''' Listen to me Gralka as I write these words in destiny. No nation knows themselves as Imperial human in this Empire, there is only one to claim its identity as Imperial Orc. A legacy to the architects of the plan and those who fought for us at journeys start. A new saga begins so hence forth we the Imperial orcs also claim the name UNSHACKLED for our nation - with all our worth.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority, with Primacy
===Judgement 191===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Bloodcrow Knott
* '''Judgement:''' The Mourn Orcs are Marchers, there is no doubt of this and denying such is false. Further, the matter of Orc souls should be left to Orcs. We encourage the Humans of the Empire to give our new siblings time while we guide them in the ways of the Abyss and Ancestors. Let us have these conversations of our souls together. We encourage the Marchers to ad us in finding proof and understanding their new citizens.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (78-0)
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Mournwold Orcs]], and their status in [[the Marches]], and seems to support the mandate enacted in [[#Judgement 199|Judgement 199]].
===Judgement 192===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Ashborn Atla
* '''Judgement:''' We the Unshackled accept the peerless kinship of the Highguard. May Sunstorm, Sannite, Tamazi, Ethengraw, Illaraum, Yerende, and other newly come work together in virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (??) with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|Peerless kinship]] allows the [[Highguard|Highborn]] people to support one of their sibling nations in the coming months, in the way that nation requests. See also [[#Judgement 163|Judgement 163]].
===Judgement 195===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Darian Numbers
* '''Judgement:''' We encourage the Marchers and the Mournwold Orcs to enter into debate and discussion around our shared beliefs and where those beliefs differ. We urge the Marchers to show understanding and lenience as they guide the Mournwold orcs on their journey to understanding the Way. As called for in statement 191 give them time.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (8-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement relates to the [[Mournwold Orcs]], and their status in [[the Marches]], and seems to support the mandate enacted in [[#Judgement 199|Judgement 199]].
===Judgement 196===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Galen Embercast
* '''Judgement:''' The Council of Nine directs the Silent Bell to investigate the location of the Silent Bell of Brian Heathford lost 290YE in Kingstoke, Upwold to Agramant inspired sorcerers.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (8-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' This statement asks the [[Silent_Bell_(Sodality)|Silent Bell]] to seek out a missing object. The Silent Bell are a sodality dedicated to Vigilance, keeping a careful watch for threats to the Empire from within and without; their expertise in tracking down [[magic items]], and indeed their interest in doing so, is extremely limited.

===Judgement 197===
* '''Assembly:''' Nine
* '''Raised By:''' Viviane de Courdefer
* '''Judgement:''' The Change of Doctrine (Judgement 3 this season) proposed by Clarice Novarion will cause serious thought and concern among the Empire's priests. We remind you all, with thanks to ??? Rikke (Judgement 124 this season), that Doctrine is a living document that must change and grow as the Empire does. We must not <u>fear</u> change, but embrace virtue where we find it.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (8-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:'''This statement refers to the [[change of doctrine]] proposed by Clarice Novarion and upheld by the General Assembly; see [[#Judgement 3|Judgement 3]].

===Judgement 200===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Rhubarb Ironwood
* '''Judgement:''' We recognise the vigilance of Jonathan Piper of Cockscroft for raising hue and cry about the threat of hostile heralds across the Marches. We exalt him!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' During the Summer Solstice, Jonathan Piper raised a [[statement of principle]] [[When_Spring_comes#Stormy_Monday_.28Mitwold.29|warning the people]] of [[Mitwold]] of the threat posed by heralds of [[Siakha]] (see [[#385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement 156|Judgement 156]]).

===Judgement 201===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Rosie of Goatsbridge
* '''Judgement:''' The Marcher Assembly recognises the Vigilance and Courage of those Urizeni who stood against so many of their own nation, warning them of the dangers of casting Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths. These include Tiberius Cascade, and also the Academy of the Southern Shore. Those they <u>are</u> good neighbours.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0), with Primacy
* '''Notes:''' Relates to the [[When_Spring_comes#Stormy_Monday_.28Mitwold.29|ongoing controversy]] around the recent performance of [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths]].
==Mandate==
===Judgement 11===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Aurum of the Nightingale Temple
* '''Judgement:''' The virtuous build up their fellows, they do not tear them down. Blue flowers bloom in Spiral, and if we are to hold true to the promise of this Empire we cannot laud one while cutting down another. Should the Empire shed Urizeni blood in this matter, it will prove they value thieves and slavers over virtuous citizens. It will prove they are unworthy of the oldest nation. We send Aurum of the Nightingale Temple with 25 doses of liao to encourage all Urizeni to stand in defiance of an Empire that treats our lives as an inconvenience, should they dare to enact violence against our people. Loyalty demands, and we cannot condemn the people of Spiral for having answered.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (267-75)
* '''Enacted:''' If the Empire sends an army to suppress the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|Urizeni rebels]] in Spiral at any point before the start of the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the rebellion will spread to the rest of Urizen. Spires will take up arms and declare their support for the rebellion, and opposition to the Empire. As detailed in the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|A question of loyalty]] wind of fortune.
===Judgement 26===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Harwyn Eternal
* '''Judgement:''' The virtuous inspire others to greatness. We send Neala Blackhawk with 75 doses of liao to urge priest to engage with the Great Forest Orcs to learn their ways to discover if we might bring them to the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (468-63)
* '''Enacted:''' Sends Pride assembly priests to visit with the [[Great Forest Orcs]] and learn about their religion. As detailed in the [[Tooth_by_tooth#Pride_and_Prejudice|Tooth by tooth]] Wind of Fortune.
===Judgement 33===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Callista
* '''Judgement:''' The truly virtuous are loyal even through hardship and misfortune. We send Callista of the Dark Shard with 25 doses of liao to encourage the remaining Urizeni living in Spiral to take up arms and defend their homes. Loyalty is not displayed by words or deeds alone, but by unity of both.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (30-379)
* '''Notes:''' Had it been enacted, this mandate would have spread the [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|Urizeni rebellion]] across the whole of Spiral. As detailed in the [[A question of loyalty]] wind of fortune.

===Judgement 40===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
* '''Judgement:''' Failure is the death of greatness, We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 75 doses of liao to encourage sword scholars throughout Urizen to separate the woman from the teachings and no longer venerate the actions of Sulemaine. Let us find new questions to ask.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (284-10)
* '''Enacted:''' This mandate [[A_wisdom_of_questions#A_Clean_Cut|sunders the sword scholars]], shattering the [[Arbiter_of_the_Four_Winds#Temple_of_the_Four_Winds|Temple of the Four Winds]]. It also damages the moral authority of the Urizen assembly, in light of their previous [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_100|endorsement of Sulemaine]], meaning every Urizen [[congregation]] receives 2 fewer votes and 1 fewer liao. As detailed in the [[A wisdom of questions|A wisdom of questions]] wind of fortune.
===Judgement 57===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Enis RootBloom
* '''Judgement:''' For too long the peoples of Navarr have struggled to claim the entirety of their homes. Let us not sit idle whilst those who have stood with us suffer a similar fate. We send Enis Rootbloom with 50 doses of liao to encourage the people of Navarr to help the Great Forest Orcs in the fight to reclaim the Heart of Peytaht.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (355-0)
* '''Enacted:''' Any Navarr army in [[the Barrens]] can support the Spears of the Pines and help them conquer the [[The_Barrens#Heart_of_Peytaht|Heart of Peytaht]], provided the [[general]] of the army takes an attacking order explicitly targetting the Heart of Peytaht and mention they are supporting the Great Forest Orcs. If this happens the Great Forest Orcs will claim the region and it will not require concedence by the Senate. It will also put to rest any concerns the Great Forest Orcs have expressed around the Navarr reticence to fight in the Barrens. As detailed in the [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] wind of fortune. See also [[#Judgement_149|Judgement 149]].

===Judgement 63===
* '''Assembly:''' Freeborn
* '''Raised By:''' Maria i Espiri i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' The National Assembly have already spoken, the Virtuous inspire others. We raised the burial mound to honour the Courage of the Jotun, and now they wish to raise a monument to the Virtue and honour of the Freeborn who defeated them - a permanent reminder of the strength of the Freeborn. We send Maria i Espiri i Guerra with ten thrones to urge the families of Kahraman to ensure the Jotun are escorted only to the burial mound to raise the monument, and then safely returned to their own lands.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (175-0)
* '''Enacted:''' This mandate sees the visiting ghodi protected by an honour guard of Freeborn which will further demonstrate the worth of the Brass Coast to the Jotun. The [[Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] will not be able to take advantage of the opportunity to capture the ghodi and mithril. As detailed in the [[Between_two_mounds#An_Enduring_Flame|Between two mounds]] wind of fortune

===Judgement 69===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Exarch Luke of the Navigators of Virtue
* '''Judgement:''' Let every word you speak carry meaning. We send Exarch Luke of the Navigators of Virtue with 25 doses of liao to persuade the soldiers of the Valiant Pegasus to seek out orc septs oppressed by the Druj. Together we will find the right question.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (437-0)
* '''Enacted:''' The Valiant Pegasus will strive to minimise casualties when fighting in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]], and open channels of communication with the septs while fighting there. As detailed in the [[The_cities_and_the_city#Leen_:_A_Road_to_Liberation|The cities and the city]] wind of fortune.

===Judgement 73===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Ser Dindrane
* '''Judgement:''' Test what you learn; only fools accept hearsay as truth. We send Ser Dindrane with 50 doses of liao to urge the faithful to visit Laroc to share in the lessons imparted there. Nothing is more virtuous than success.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (74-192)

===Judgement 113===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Eldrid Vestardottir
* '''Judgement:''' Consequences are the price of Ambition. We send Eldrid Vestardottir with 50 doses of liao to urge every citizen to contribute what resources they can spare to support the creation of a new Holy City at Bastion. Let our virtue echo through history for a thousand years.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (284-0)
* '''Enacted.''' Wintermark will find what white granite and funds they can spare and donate them to support the construction of a [[Blood will thicken|sacred city]] in [[Bastion]]. Every Wintermark territory that is affected by this mandate will donate 4 wains of white granite and 8 crowns to support the commission each season for the next year. For the same period it is impossible to use a mandate to urge Wintermark to support another commission or similar project that needed help. Any mandate in the Imperial Synod that urged Wintermark citizens to provide financial support to a different commission or cause will fail to affect the nation. Likewise any statement of principle in their national assembly that asks the nation for their support in this way will fail to produce a mandate. As detailed in the [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|Blood will thicken]] Wind of Fortune.

===Judgement 134===
* '''Assembly:''' Navarr
* '''Raised By:''' Corey Wayfarer
* '''Judgement:''' Consequences are the price of Ambition. We send Fintan Founders-Dance with 50 doses of liao to urge every citizen to contribute what resources they can spare to support the creation of a new Holy City at Bastion. Let our virtue echo through history for a thousand years..
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (276-26) the Greater Majority threshold for this judgement was 276.
*'''Enacted.''' Navarr will find what [[white granite]] and funds they can spare and donate them to support the construction of a [[Blood will thicken|sacred city]] in [[Bastion]]. Every Navarr territory that is affected by this mandate will donate 12 wains of white granite and 24 crowns to support the commission each season for the next year. For the same period it is impossible to use a mandate to urge the Navarr to support another commission or similar project that needed help. Any mandate in the Imperial Synod that urged Navarr to provide financial support to a different commission or cause will fail to affect the nation. Likewise any statement of principle in their national assembly that asks the nation for their support in this way will fail to produce a mandate. As detailed in the [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|Blood will thicken]] Wind of Fortune.

===Judgement 149===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Veikko Bondforger
* '''Judgement:''' No priest can tell you what you are loyal to, but we can guide you on that path. Under the Eyes of Loyalty we send Veikko Bondforger to support the following mandate: For too long the people of Navarr have struggled to claim the entirety of their homes. Let us not sit idle while those who have stood with us suffer a similar fate. We send our priest with 50 doses of liao to encourage the people of Navarr to help the Great Forest Orcs in the fight to reclaim the Heart of Peytaht.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (279-0)
* '''Enacted:''' The [[Cardinal_of_Loyalty#Additional_Powers_-_The_Eyes_of_Loyalty|Eyes of Loyalty]] will support [[#Judgement 57|Judgement 57]].

===Judgement 170===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orcs
* '''Raised By:''' Bleakshield Zorra
* '''Judgement:''' If we are to be liberators not conquerors, then our pride must be conveyed by actions not by words alone. We send Skywise Rykana with 75 Thrones to provide food and other vital supplies to the Rahvin in Bitter Strand. All that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (78-0)
* '''Enacted:''' Imperial Orcs priests gather food and other vital supplies, and deliver them to the Rahvin. Their largesse will improve the sept's attitude, causing the Rahvin to become more well disposed to the Imperial Orcs, prepared to speak with them directly and securing their ability to negotiate with the orcs on behalf of the Empire. As detailed in the [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Rahvin|Not to conquer]] wind of fortune.

===Judgement 199===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Mel Bleak
* '''Judgement:''' Those orcs who once were thralls of the Jotun are Marchers. They've been patient, and we won't keep them waiting while the rest of the Empire argues about what we know to be true. We send Sister Meredith with the egregore Jack to welcome them into our nation, and we will look to the paperwork later.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (264-0)
* '''Enacted:''' With this risky mandate, the Marcher assembly makes it clear to their own people, and to the Empire, that the [[Mournwold Orcs]] should be Marchers. As detailed in the [[When_Spring_comes#The_Field_.28Mournwold_Orcs.29|When Spring comes]] Wind of Fortune
==Evaluation==
The Synod made the following judgements of [[excommunication]], [[inquisition]], [[revocation]], and [[sanction]].
===Judgement 17===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' In Summer 385YE I called Gisli the Provider to Inquisition. In enquired about his motives, his reasons for his prosperous acts and found the cause of his work to be a deep seated Virtue. Not only does he act most Prosperously, he does not shirk the Pride he is owed for his great work. Gisli fully funded the recent Empire-wide Autumn ritual, bringing prosperity to all, and has donated hundreds of thrones worth of money and resources to the Academy - in their words, he has saved the lives of countless children. He has been a fervent fighter against slavery, going on both major raids, and he single handedly raised enough money for the Thule to feed their people, avoiding untold thousands of orcs starving.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (55-10)
===Judgement 18===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Iniska Ashwood
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Finna i Fijadoz, the High Exorcist, to Inquisition. This will occur at 4pm on the Saturday of this summit, Autumn 385, at the Ashwood Emporium (also known as Iniska's Pantry, or Kaelynn's Apothetea). I wish to examine her actions as both an elected representative of the Imperial Synod, but also as an Inspiration to those groups of Exorcists bound together in the image of the Justicars. Any may attend, priority given to Spiritwoods members.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (75-0)
===Judgement 20===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Stawamir Rabovich Bolotstrazh
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call to inquisition Reidarr "Blood-letter" of Byrchenhal at 3pm in the Byrchenhal camp. Saavi "Heroes Champion" has agreed to assist me to advise on winterfolk traditions. Reidarr has performed long service to the Empire's military forces and strategy, lead hundreds of people through the sentinel gate and has fought each of the enemies of the Empire. Now, I call him to question on his virtue. May the wise spider guide me to the truth of his virtue and story.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1118-30)

===Judgement 21===
* '''Assembly:''' Way
* '''Raised By:''' Morwenna Withered Rose
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Ser Claudia Lovelorn to stand for Inquisition to explore the nature of her duty as the Keeper of Tharim's Throne. The inquisition will be held at 5.30pm on Saturday at the Hall of Voices in Urizen. The imquisiting priest is Morwenna Withered Rose. May all our vows be witnesses in light and blood.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (31-0)
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Claudia Lovelorn. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 22===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Aethelric the Grounded
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' During the Summer Summit of 385YE, there was an expedition to Madruga to recover the only known survivor of the Dry Patrician blight. Said survivor was afflicted with an incurable sickness that was transforming him into something unknown - possibly a husk variant. I call Lev Unbound of Highguard to Inquisition to explain his reasoning for letting this survivor go (to effectively roam Casinea unsupported and unguarded) rather than exploring other alternatives. The inquisition will take place on the Saturday of the Autumn Summit 385YE at 4,00 pm. We shall meet at the hub and possibly adjourn elsewhere to conduct the proceedings.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld; Withdrawn
===Judgement 23===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Through his inquisition at the Summer Solstice, general Stanley of Chalkdown has shown Pride in his land, his duty to the Empire, and his role as general. Joining the Marches at the liberation of Mournwold, he has ever strived for excellence in that which he is Proud - waging war upon the Jotun through the Bregasland campaign as soldier adjutant and general, with unwavering dedication. He has always been a Marcher - for a moment, not an Imperial one, but shows Pride in all things, and Loyalty to great ones.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (259-0)
===Judgement 24===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Following her claims at the Summer Solstice before the Pride assembly, I call Skywise Gralka, Archmage of Day, to inquisition. To claim signs of the Exemplar is to convey by words alone - let us discuss this further. First Legion tent, Imperial Orc camp, midnight, Friday of the Autumn Equinox.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (117-0)
* '''Notes:''' There were two other judgements of inquisition relating to Skywise Gralka. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.

===Judgement 27===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Skywise Gralka to Inquisition on Saturday at Midnight to occur in Wintermark. This concerns a list of signs of possible exemplarhood and I wish to talk to her with any priest friendly to me welcome along. This will <u>not</u> concern Cold Sun business as a primary focus. Run your own inquisition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (202-0)
* '''Notes:''' There were two other judgements of inquisition relating to Skywise Gralka. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 34===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kasjay
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I Kasjay call Veiko to inquisition to discuss his virtue in dealing with Spiral. It will be at 19:00 in his hall.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (443-27)
===Judgement 39===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Wayfarer Abraham
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Sufyan i Zuhri i Erigo for inquisition for the inquisition he held on Wildfire of Balthazar's Vineyard. An inquisition is meant to involve probing questions to discover the truth behind the actions and motives of the accused. Some concerns have been raised that the inquisition of Wildfire was not done with the aim of finding the truth and motives of the virtue of this brothers actions but instead this inquisition was raised with Sufyan i Zuhri i Erigo mind already decided and little concern for new wisdom. Wisdom knows all knowledge is incomplete. So, I call Sufyan iZuhri i Erigo to inquisition at 3.30 pm Saturday at the Scions of Ravensfall chapter tent, Highguard, so the truth can be found, and the sanctity of Inquisition can be maintained to the highest possible standard.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (928-27)
===Judgement 46===
* '''Assembly:''' Wintermark
* '''Raised By:''' Ingrid
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Eska Crowspeaker, Liberty's Song to Inquisition at the Hub on Saturday at 3 o'clock, in order to hear the tale of the Liberty Pact and her role in its creation.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (197-0)
===Judgement 48===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Earl Galeas du Maurisol
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Maarit Suvidottir, Courage Inquisitior, is called to Inquisition to discuss her conduct as an Inquisitor and her future plans. Anyone interested in the workings of Inquisitions is welcome to attend. Time and Place: 6pm, Wintermark Camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1130-24)
===Judgement 49===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Earl Galeas du Maurisol
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Lenarius Ankarian, Imperial Inquisitor, is called to Inquisition to discuss his conduct as Ambition Inquisitor and his plans for Inquisitorial Court. Anyone interested in the workings of Inquisitions is welcome to attend. Time and Place:4pm, Urizen Camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1211-37)

===Judgement 52===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Elkiah of the Shattered Tower
* '''Judgement:''' '''Revocation''' The Highborn Assembly seeks to revoke JARED OF THE SUNS OF COUROS from the position of LEPIDEAN LIBRARIAN. Embarrassed us with improper use of the position by using the power in a way he knew it should not be used, and got the name of the person he was researching incorrect. He wants to "experiment with the power" rather than use it as intended to exalt people of our past. Wisdom is asking the right question. He is not. The position would be better served in the hands of someone who wants to use it as it is meant to be used. To encourage Pride in our Empire, not embarrass us.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (146-96)
* '''Notes:''' Jared of the Suns of Couros was [[revocation|revoked]] from the position of [[Lepidean Librarian]].

===Judgement 66===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' James of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Skywise Gralka to Inquisition at 11:30 Sunday at the Cenotaph camp in Highguard over events relating to the Cold Sun.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (376-20)
* '''Notes:''' There were two other judgements of inquisition relating to Skywise Gralka. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 72===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Eliaphas of the Saker
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Condemnation, Escalation)''' I hereby condemn Aska of Sentinel's Watch, former general of the Valiant Pegasus. She was found to carry a dedication of Purity on her soul. During her inquisition, she claimed to have no knowledge of this. The raising priest wishes to suggest the harshest legal penalty for this crime.
* '''Outcome:''' Not Upheld (334-362); Scrutiny was [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|extended]] by the [[Cardinal of Loyalty]].
===Judgement 77===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Eska Harakkadottir
* '''Judgement:'' ''Inquisition''' I call to inquisition Merlof, Captain of the Militia, to answer to reports of apathy and a lack of Ambition of the Militia in investigating an accusation of murder. Inquisition to take place at 11am Sunday at the tent of the Crimson Reaper in the League.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (168-12)

===Judgement 83===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Rhaego i Zemress
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Pertaining to Judgement 173 Spring 383 / Inquisition conducted Summer 385. Tisserande has conducted himself with steady virtue. Prosperity assembly acknowledges the struggle Tisserande has faced in his acquisition of the Runeforge. Through his actions, we have unearthed strong evidence of corruption surrounding the prior use and control of this Bourse seat. Our eyes will pierce the shadow of this threat and find the truth. We extend our full spiritual support to Tisserande of House Griffonsbain. Prosperity provides!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (231-0)

===Judgement 93===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Annalaya del Toro
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' We call Leonardo i del Toro as head of the civil service to at 2.15, Saturday this solstice in at house Del Toro Camp. To discuss the heretical content of some mandates that have been set before the Synod by the Civil Service and investigate what might be done to make them less common.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (571-165)
===Judgement 94===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Sister Keziah
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Castigation, Escalation)''' We the Highborn assembly castigate Aksehfor her grevious failure of vigilance. However, since she did not preach false virtue, she does not meet the definition of religious crime, and a condemnation on these grounds is inappropriate. She deserves to - and must - seek atonement for her sinful actions, as do all who stray from virtue. I, sister Keziah,commit to guide her on the long, hard path to redemption and virtue. No soul or spirit - no matter their crimes - is beyond salvation!
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (272-178)
===Judgement 104===
* '''Assembly:''' WIsdom
* '''Raised By:''' Amris Johan Menkovich
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Penance, Escalation)''' In relation to his virtue defence of Lucaz. It is found that Father Drakov should perform penance to the Law. This was his first virtue defence and as such he was unaware that a priest can a) change their mind or b) condemn the accused. He showed lack of Wisdom at 3 points as a result he must perform 3 tasks to aid the militia before performing another defence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (223-0)
===Judgement 105===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pickers Blackleap
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Senator de Rondell to inquisition regarding the motion to raise funds for a Dawnish army. At 5pm in Navarr songs and stories circle. All welcome to attend.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Auditor_of_Senatorial_Accountability#Inquisit_Member_of_the_Senate|Upheld automatically]].
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Bohemond de Rondell. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.

===Judgement 111===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ephron of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Clarive Novarion of the Doctrinal Council to Inquisition on the matter of proposed changes to Doctrine. I will visit the Novarion tent at 19:00 Saturday to conduct the inquisition.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (740-13)
===Judgement 114===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' General Aurum has with great Ambition pursued their role in acting out the will of the Military Council, They have faced some of the worst enemies of this our Empire <u>and</u> the threat of false Virtue They are guided by a network of priests and have sound understanding of what must be done to protect theirs and their soldier's souls. They understand the power of words. May their testimony remain true. May they remain a guiding light. Wisdom Questions all, Silas of the Cenotaph.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (721-31)
===Judgement 115===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Earl of Fools
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' At 10 of the Saturday of Autumn's night toiqnusition is called Lord Bohemond de Rondell to face us in Glory's Square to answer strife twixt national and generals (and we mean the Barrens situation). True liberator or true conqueror.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (76-0)
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Bohemond de Rondell. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.
===Judgement 120===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Mina i Yashum i Riqueza
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Call Claudia Lovelorn to Inquisition to determine the extend to which virtue affects Claudia's uses of magic. 11am - HOUSE REMYS- Autumn 384YE - Sunday. Raphael i Z(?) i Riqueza will lead the ritual.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1045-20)
* '''Notes:''' There was another judgement of inquisition relating to Claudia Lovelorn. An individual may not be subject of an [[inquisition]] more than once per summit; anyone who has already undergone a inquisition that weekend is not obliged to attend another.

===Judgement 127===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Stawemir Rabovich Bolotstrazh
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Following inquisition into Reidarr "Blood-letter" of Brychenhal with the aid of Saavi "Heroes Champion" I wish to recognise Reidarr's inspiring virtue his courage to stand by what is right, the way he instils loyalty in those who follow him and his pride in building others up show excellence in military virtue. He conducts himself as a hero in everything he does and his life is a story to inspire many heroes yet to come.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (987-16)
===Judgement 138===
* '''Assembly:''' Marches
* '''Raised By:''' Bryca Tanner
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' The Marcher National Assembly calls Jonathan Thresher to inquisition in regards to the curse "Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence" on the Urizen territories of Morrow and Zenith. We encourage Johnathan Thresher to defend the virtue of his actions on the Saturday of the Winter SOlstice 385YE, to be held at the All-Virtues Chapel in the Marches camp.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn
===Judgement 139===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' Bryn Netherwatch; you have served as Witness of Conclave and are the first to bear that title. Much has happened in your short tenure! The Witness is an office demanding Vigilance, and so it is right that Vigilance should Witness you. I call you to Inqusition, so that we may speak of what which you have Witnessed, including but not limited to matters Omnihedral. The Day: Saturday, Winter 385YE. The time: 11.30am. The place: Boundaryfolk Camp (Subject to change for accessibility).
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (129-0)
===Judgement 145===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Sam Wych-Elm
* '''Judgement: Inquisition''' I, Sam Wychelm call Kennett the mummer to inquisition on account of the series of judgements they have made <u>exalting Anarchy</u>. We have been unable despite multiple attempts to speak with this citizen to arrange inquisition so we put in this judgement now to give them ample time to arrange their affairs and show up. 6pmSaturday Winter 385YE Merricks.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (213-12)

===Judgement 162===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Witold Petrov
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' We find Vuk acted in Loyalty, holding the lives of all those of his vale as paramount (his first loyalty) when dealing with his Sovereign. His actions last year, which caused rancor in Varushka were the result of a curse due to decisions made as a Senator nothing to do with the Sovereign's bargain. Vuk's soul is not yet perfect, as he has not ascended, but we do not find him lacking in virtue.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (90-0)

===Judgement 164===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Silas of the Cenotaph
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' The Basilisk of Highguard's eye is open and those whose Virtue is false shall turn to stone. I call the Sect of Felix's Watch to Inquisition Friday of Winter 385 for their Actions in rooting out the poison of Hatred. Let us now document what happened, how and what lessons were learned. Cyrus, Zarch, Baal, Enoch, Daniel, Tirza, Accolon, Zachariah and Naomi come forth. Wisdom questions all.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1256-0)

===Judgement 171===
* '''Assembly:''' Loyalty
* '''Raised By:''' Sbella of the Silent Tide
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' I inquisit the Imperial Exorcist Finna i Fijadoz i Guerra at the last summit. I return with this judgement of vindication. Finna's actions of diplomacy to the Grendel, despite a difficult history, were both loyal and virtuous.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (183-0)

===Judgement 175===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarien
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Castigation, Escalation)''' With regards to the inquisition of Hector of Tropian, while he may have had virtuous intent, he lacked wisdom and vigilance in failing utterly to consider the wider implications of his actions.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (249-18)
===Judgement 177===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Wayfarer Abraham
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Penance, Escalation)''' Following his inquisition of Wyldfire of Bathosa's Vineyard, it has been found that Sufyan i Zurhi i Erigo acted without due wisdom in accepting evidence and information as part of his proceedings. His lack of Vigilance in controlling his emotions around the topic discussed led to incomplete assessment of virtue. In penance, I charge him with a pilgrimage. A pilgrimage to study the (??) of the Inquisitorial technique and the workings of the Inquisitorial Court for the next two seasons. The virtuous apply what they have learned- Wisdom knows all knowledge is incomplete.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (919-20)
===Judgement 178===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Sebastiano
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call to Inquisition Rafiici Barossa. To seek the Throne is a great act of Ambition. Now tell us why you seek it. Inquisition to take place at 1pm Sunday in the First Spark tent of the League.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (209-10)
===Judgement 179===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Martin Orchard
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Jeziah i Radah i Guerra to inquisition to discuss the Vigilance of casting Hallow of the Green World, and the dangers inherent in such transformative magics. This is at his request. 2.01 pm Sun Hub Annex.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (177-0)
===Judgement 185===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Kiasjay
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' I find Veikko Bondforger's actions in using the eyes of Loyalty to have been entirely virtuous. While he may have set aside some of his personal ambition he has let loyalty to those he has forged bonds with guide his actions at every step. Bonds with his friends, when they asked. Bonds with his assembly when he let them decide if should be used and the consequences. And bonds with the Empire when he saw part of it in pain.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (956-253)
===Judgement 186===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Maarit Suvidottir
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' Melchior of Adina's Charge, Cardinal of Courage, was inquisited about his long history of virtue dating back to his youth in Reikos and later the Granite Pillar. Extending to his arrival at Anvil, his part in defeating the Yaelish Schism, and healing the wounds it caused. His long service as proxy to Cardinal of Courage Clarice Novarion prepared him for this role, and he now intends to further the virtue of the Empire by pushing the assemblies he is in to be proactive forces for positive virtuous change in the Empire. He seeks the inspire courage in others in the future. I look forward to seeing what we can do together in Virtue and he asks us to seek out causes and choose our hills to die on.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (150-0)

===Judgement 187===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Ephrom of Adina's Charge
* '''Judgement:''' '''Sanction (Vindication, Escalation)''' I inquisited Clarice Novarion on the proposed Doctrine of Enlightenment, the writing thereof, and her preaching of it. I commend her and encourage her to shape our shared destiny. I ask the Synod; why did others not seek to apply scrutiny before me? We seek to change Doctrine. Pay attention! We build our future in stone.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (928-26)

===Judgement 189===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Telyn Stormtree
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call to Inquisition Anthamius Netherwatch regarding the ritual Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths which they allegedly led and unleashed the heralds of the Cold Sun. To be held Saturday of the Winter Summit, at a time and place to be agreed.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (173-0)
===Judgement 193===
* '''Assembly:''' Urizen
* '''Raised By:''' Lenarius Ankarion
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' I call Cassia Silkweaver to inquisition to discuss their use of priestly powers. At the Winter Solstice, the inquisition will take place. Time and Location to be confirmed closer to the summit.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Virtue_inquisitor#Inquisitor.27s_Judgement|Upheld automatically]]
===Judgement 194===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Heilyn Bronwen's Rest
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' As Basilisk of the Bourse, I call Tristan Ramson von Holberg, the Master of the Mint, to Inquisition on Friday at 20.00 during the Winter Solstice. We shall meet at the Hub and discuss at a teahouse.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Virtue_inquisitor#Inquisitor.27s_Judgement|Upheld automatically]].

===Judgement 198===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lady Laundine du Lac
* '''Judgement:''' '''Inquisition''' As the Imperial Chaplain Consular, I call Jarrigk Orzel to an inquisition to discuss his involvement and knowledge of the plot against the Grendel. The inquisition will be held on Friday at 11pm at the Imperial Offices in Winter 385.
* '''Outcome:''' [[Imperial_Chaplain_Consular#Inquisit_Imperial_Ambassador|Upheld automatically]].

==Recognition==
There was one judgement of [[recognition]] during the Autumn Equinox.
===Judgement 7===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Drakov
* '''Judgement:''' This Spring, with 1185 votes in favour, General Assembly passed my Judgement declaring Living Exemplars should be encouraged and celebrated not feared. Following a positive Wisdom Assembly debate last summit, and in light of their recommendations, I seek Recognition as a Living Exemplar. A minimum of 4 signs must be met. I believe I have met the signs of Pilgrimage, Recognition, Legacy, Salvation, and Inspiration. According to the new rules, my supporting evidence is on the Citizen's Notice Board for your consideration.
* '''Outcome:''' Withdrawn at the request of the raising priest.

===Judgement 54===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' Ozren de Orzel used art to change the world, and this assembly recognises him as an Exemplar of Pride. <u>Inspiration:</u> Ozren directly inspired the creation of the High Bard, and now every year a new High Bard takes to the Senate floor, a long line of artists, performers, and storytellers following in his footsteps using art to inspire and speak truth to those at the heart of the Empire. <u>Pilgrimage:</u> Ozren went to the Pits of Ennerlund in Holberg to put the unquiet ghosts there to rest after the depredations of the Druj. He did not just take liao to exorcise them, but spoke to them and heard their stories. He brought these back out into the light and retold them to their loved ones, so they would not be forgotten. <u>Benevolence:</u> Ozren was instrumental in the creation of the High Bard, and reclaimed the Pits of Ennerlund by carrying the stories of the unquiet dead back out to the light, both of great lasting benefit to the whole Empire. <u>Legacy:</u> As well as his own beautiful body of work, and co-authoring the first High Bard performance on the Senate floor with his future wife Lady Kaywenn du Launcet. Ozren leaves the position of High Bard as a testament to his dedication to seeing Art and inspiration take its place at the heart of Imperial decision making. More than this, each High Bard is expected to leave a composition as a legacy, ensuring an ever growing body of work dedicated to his vision.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld with a Greater Majority (493-46)
* '''Notes:''' The recognition of Ozren de Orzel will be escalated to the General Assembly for evaluation at the Winter Solstice.

===Judgement 55===
* '''Assembly:''' Prosperity
* '''Raised By:''' Soratio i Del Toro
* '''Judgement:''' Zemress is a Paragon. In addition to the five signs given when she was recognised as an Exemplar, she displays the sign of Miracles - with numerous spontaneous, virtuous, auras having been found on items associated with her. Furthermore, her Inspiration and Legacy are much greater than were known when she was recognised as an exemplar. Zemress is now known to by the founder of two societies of Prosperous humans - the Zemressi Islanders whose practise of prosperity has improved the agriculture of the Brass Coast, and the Frieoyer who provide the backbone of Sumaah's naval presence.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (270-29); the Greater Majority threshold for this judgement was 286.
* '''Notes:''' This judgement did not achieve a Greater Majority and so will not be escalated.
==Appointment==
At the Summit, the following [[appointment|appointments]] were proposed by the Assemblies of the Synod. You can find the names of citizens who currently hold Imperial titles in the Synod [[Current Imperial titles|here]].
===Judgement 2===
* '''Assembly:''' Pride
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Cardinal of Pride]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Zadkiel de Courdefer''' was appointed with 306 votes. Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra received 108 votes. Jedediah Boon of the Ore Hills received 107 votes. Ubarius of Tropaion Citadel received 65 votes. Ephron of Adina's Charge received 16 votes.
===Judgement 12===
* '''Assembly:''' Ambition
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Virtue Inquisitor]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sebastiano''' was appointed with 70 votes. Eska Harakadottir received 66 votes. Callista received 46 votes. Eldrid Vestardottir received 10 votes.
===Judgement 14===
* '''Assembly:''' Imperial Orc
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of [[Guide to the Lost]]
* '''Outcome:'' '''Ikahn'' was appointed with 26 votes.

===Judgement 25===
* '''Assembly:''' Vigilance
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of [[Virtue Inquisitor]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sam Wychelm''' was appointed with 92 votes. Brother Geoffrey ORchard received 63 votes. Dagon and Galeas each received 0 votes.
===Judgement 30===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Archivist of the Echoing Obelisk]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Enoch of Felix's Watch''' was appointed with 196 votes. Elkiah of the Shattered Tower was appointed with 60 votes.
===Judgement 41===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment [[Challenger in Waiting]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Earl of Fools''' appointed with 84 votes. Captain Charge received 8 votes. Damarian Orzel received 16 votes. Earl D'Eon Novarion received 10 votes. Galahad Audrax received 10 votes. Lady Nimue DeRondell received 10 votes. Hector de Sarroi received 0 votes. Sir Gaeris received 0 votes. Henry Vallarios received 0 votes. Tal Fracrasser of House Vexille received 0 votes.
===Judgement 42===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Knight of the Greenwood]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Earl Percival Summerstrong''' was appointed with 108 votes. Enchantress Armand Remys received 107 votes. Lord Lucien deCoeurdefer received 52 votes. Mordrain Sepulchre received 10 votes.
===Judgement 43===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Abbess of Reconciliation]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Sister Rosa of the Chantry''' was appointed with 360 votes. Berrak of the Navigators of Virtue received 74 votes.
===Judgement 44===
* '''Assembly:''' Varushka
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Guardian of the Maze of Zoria]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Illya Nikovitch Volkov''' was appointed with 166 votes. Kalina Jadwigowna Piesnkova received 52 votes.
===Judgement 60===
* '''Assembly:''' Dawn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Apointment of the [[Reeve of Greenforest Fair]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Arlen Foreman-Smith''' was appointed with 176 votes.

===Judgement 65===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Courage]].
* '''Outcome:''' Emrys i Guerra, Pris Jackdaw's Call, Salome i Nadir i Erigo all received 20 votes so the title was not appointed. Ser Drysford received 10 votes. Coren Lonestrider and Thomir of the Cenotaph each received 0 votes,
* '''Notes:''' See [[#Judgement 161|Judgement 161]]
===Judgement 81===
* '''Assembly:''' Wisdom
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Champion of Wisdom]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Valens Leos''' was appointed with 119 votes. Elagabala received 69 votes. Iza Mor'goed received 0 votes.
===Judgement 126===
* '''Assembly:''' Highborn
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Lepidean Librarian]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower''' was appointed with 280 votes. Carlos i Navigator of Virtue i Guerra received 78 votes. Jared of the Suns of Couros received 62 votes.

===Judgement 143===
* '''Assembly:''' League
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of the [[Watcher of Ratibor's Torch]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Vitore Van Temeschwar''' was appointed with 243 votes.

===Judgement 161===
* '''Assembly:''' Courage
* '''Raised By:''' Tribune
* '''Judgement:''' Appointment of [[Champion of Courage]]
* '''Outcome:''' '''Thomir''' was appointed with 126 votes. Pris Jackdaw's Call received 66 votes. Coren Lonestrider received 10 votes.

==Rewarding==
The following judgements of [[rewarding]] were proposed during the summit.
===Judgement 8===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Estella Lucati
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod rewards the Virtue of Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia. Arsenio has displayed both Ambition and Prosperity in creating opportunities for Imperial citizens including expanding access to important materials and resources for the Empire as a whole at personal expense. To celebrate Arsenio's virtues and to encourage him to comparable deeds in the future, the Synod rewards him with twenty-one Thrones from the Virtue Fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (315-205)
===Judgement 10===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rafael Barossa di Tassato
* '''Judgement:''' Since Summer 384, I have been patron of a group of Virtuous rebels in Asavea. With the support of the Sevenfold Path, Highborn Benefactors, Ashborn Pakt, my family, and several others who do not wish to be named. I have sent them money to bribe corrupt officials, white granite to fortify their homes, and 175 doses of Liao so they can practice The Way. With the Conclave's aid I have also provided them with a ritual text to assist their work. The total financial value of the aid I have sent them is over 70 Thrones. This has resulted in a decapitation strike against the Tarquinius family, prime movers against the Empire in the Asavean Plenum. I claim full responsibility for this act and encourage anyone who is able to tell the Asaveans it was me. To cover those costs I incurred personally, and to ensure I can continue this work, I ask the Synod to reward me with 35 Thrones.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1123-324)

===Judgement 19===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Rocio i Fijadoz i Guerra
* '''Judgement:''' In this era of doctrinal reform, it is more important than ever that we ensure that our beliefs are based in fact. The nature of the Labyrinth is a mystery to us, and one that underpins our entire faith. We have discovered a way to use true liao to mark a soul in a way that will enable us to observe them as they pass through the Labyrinth, shedding much light on this mystery. I ask for a dose of true liao for this purpose, so we may learn more of the Way.
* '''Outcome:''' Not upheld (989-1019). The [[Cardinal of Ambition]] used the ability to require [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|further scrutiny]] on this judgement.
===Judgement 28===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Lysimachus
* '''Judgement:''' The Anvil Hospital has kept many of the people of Anvil alive and treated the Heroes of Anvil for a veritable smorgasbord of curses, traumatic injuries, Druj poisons, a whole host of supernatural weird stuff and (occasionally) their own stupidity. The physicks of the hospital have shown their Virtue summit after summit especially Courage, Ambition and Loyalty, and are a source of great Pride to the Empire. While nothing stops any citizen who believes in supporting the hospital from sharing their prosperity is to aid in keeping us from getting injured and/or killed, we wish to reward Gabrielle Barossa; Bursar of the Hospital with 9 Thrones, 2Crowns, and 11 Rings - the same amount donated to the fund by a physick no longer with us - to allow the Anvil Hospital to continue its virtuous work.
'''Outcome:''' Upheld (1673-89)

===Judgement 45===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Jules von Holberg
* '''Judgement:''' The Synod rewards the Virtue of Giacomo Corvinoscuro. Some believed that constructing naval defences in Sarvos against the coming Grendel was folly and could never be completed in time. Yet through tireless effort, great personal expense, and working with powerful and expensive covens, Giacomo stands at the cusp of success. That which should have taken a year takes only six months. Ninety percent of what was needed has been obtained. For this heroic effort, and to encourage him in the final stretch, we reward Giacomo with twenty-eight Thrones from the Virtue Fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (1065-482)

===Judgement 82===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Caewel Novarion
* '''Judgement:''' Enchantress Areloe Lormalleves has been instrumental in orchestrating large magical rituals in Dawn. After casting Bound by Common Cause for the first time in Dawn, she pursued her Ambition to organise the casting of more and greater rituals to benefit the Empire. Her Ambition lead her to organise the casting of an Arcane Projection by Meraud that protected the citizens of Dawn from the Cold Sun, ensuring no lives ere lost. Meraud has offered the Enchantress an opportunity to create a Sinecure that she wants to use to flame the Ambitions of others who wish to follow in her path. I feel these acts are virtuous and deserve reward. I ask the Synod to provide 15 Thrones from the virtue fund.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (679-409)
===Judgement 95===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Pontis Figures
* '''Judgement:''' Remodelling Bastion with a Grand Inspiration of the Way will be the work of ages and a legacy of our Empire. The sizeable resource investment required (1000 wains of white granite) means a collective effort will be required. We propose that the virtue fund is utilised to provide some of this and bring the project to a swifter completion. So far the virtue fund has provided 3 wains from previous rewardings. We seek 15 Thrones in order to purchase another 3 wains.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (484-262)
===Judgement 112===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Tom Appleseed
* '''Judgement:''' Seeking a dose of True Liao for the consecration of the tomb of Good Walder, Paragon of Prosperity.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (543-152); Scrutiny was [[Cardinal#Further_Scrutiny|extended]] by the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]].
* '''Notes:''' No [[liao#True Liao|True Liao]] remained in the virtue fund when this judgement passed.

===Judgement 121===
* '''Assembly:''' General
* '''Raised By:''' Fintan Founders Dance
* '''Judgement:''' The Seven Pilgrims stand as inspiration to citizens of the Empire. To recover the Pilgrim's Shield Bawn-Watch requires equivalent trade. We ask for a dose of true liao from the virtue fund to create a true hallowed artefact for this purpose.
* '''Outcome:''' Upheld (675-262)

==Special Considerations==
The following considerations should be borne in mind when bringing judgements before the Imperial Synod during the Autumn Equinox.
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible 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 would 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]], [[Hard_and_suspecting#The_Varushkan_Assembly|Varushka Link]].</td><td>Ongoing</td>
<tr><td>Highguard</td><td> The Highborn National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in any National Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>Highguard</td><td> The Highborn National Assembly can pass a statement of principle to call on their nation to support the Imperial Orcs, the Marches, or Wintermark.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Peerless Kinship]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>Urizen</td><td> The Urizen National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in the Highborn Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>League</td><td> The League National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in the Highborn Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
<tr><td>Varushka</td><td> The Varushkan National Assembly can submit alternate mandates to mandates presented in the Highborn Assembly.</td><td>[[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]]</td><td>Lasts until the the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE</td>
</table>
==Alternative Mandates==
Prior to the summit, the following [[Mandate#Alternative Mandates|alternative mandates]] were proposed by members of the Synod.

{|
| '''Member''' || '''Link to mandate''' || '''Notes'''
|-
| Aurum of the Nightingale Temple || [[A_question_of_loyalty#The_Rebels|A question of loyalty]] ||
|-
| Herminius of the House of the Wanderer || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] || A use of [[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]] for the Urizen Assembly
|-
| Maximillian Ankarien || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] || A use of [[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]] for the Urizen Assembly
|-
| Brynn Tendfallen || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Nathair Autumngale || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Enis RootBloom || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Corey Wayfarer || [[Not_to_conquer#Synod_Opportunities_:_Great_Forest_Orcs|Not to conquer]] ||
|-
| Jared of the Suns of Couros || [[Restraint#The_Black_Feast|Restraint]] || A use of [[Rings_and_crowns#Kinship_and_Greatness|Partner of Greatness]] for the Highborn Assembly
|-
| Maria i Espiri i Guerra || [[Between_two_mounds#An_Enduring_Flame|Between two mounds]] ||
|-
| Ahraz i Guerra || [[Between_two_mounds#An_Enduring_Flame|Between two mounds]] ||
|}
==The Virtue Fund==
The following represents the Virtue Fund of the Synod:
{|
| ''Starting Value'' || 26 Thrones, 2 Rings ||
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 21 Thrones || Rewarding to Estella Lucati following [[#Judgement 8|Judgement 8]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Income'' || 12 Rings || Donation by the Secretary General of the Civil Service from the sale of writing implements.
|-
| ''Income'' || 5 Rings || Donation by Lysimachus.
|-
| ''Income'' || 70 Thrones || The price paid in the Bourse Auction for the dose of True Liao.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 9 Thrones, 2 Crowns, 11 Rings || Rewarding to Lysimachus following [[#Judgement 28|Judgement 28]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 35 Thrones || Rewarding to Rafael Barossa di Tassato following [[#Judgement 10|Judgement 10]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 28 Thrones || Rewarding to Jules von Holberg following [[#Judgement 45|Judgement 45]] being upheld.
|-
| ''Rewarding'' || 2 Thrones, 6 Crowns, 8 Rings || Rewarding to Pontus Figures following [[#Judgement 95|Judgement 95]] being upheld (insufficient funds for full rewarding).
|-
| ''Income'' || 14 Rings || Donation by the Secretary General of the Civil Service from the sale of writing implements.
|-
| ''Closing Value'' || 14 Rings ||
|}

==Doses of True Liao==

Six doses of [[Liao#True Liao|True Liao]] were disbursed this summit:
* One dose in connection to the [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean University]] to Fintan Founders' Dance via [[#Judgement 121|Judgement 121]]
* One dose to Gisli by purchase in the [[Public auction|Public Auction]]
* One dose to Anastasiya Volkov by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to Esteban i Del Rio Blanco i Guerra by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose to Tom Appleseed by decision of the Gatekeepers
* One dose awarded by the Gatekeepers at a previous summit to Livia Cascade

When Spring comes

2023-09-02T17:11:16Z

RichardRaynor: /* The Aftermath */ sp

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>
The heavy ball arced across the field, water flying from the leather as it spun. The day had started dry, perfect weather for foot-the-ball, but an hour before kick-off rain clouds, thick as clotted cream had turned up. By the time the two teams were ready, it was raining cats and dogs. As the match wore on the field was churned to ankle deep mud. Now with twenty minutes left to play the game had descended into a contest of endurance more than skill.

That suited Wayford Wanderer's star player just fine. He was a beater by profession, well used to walking the hills in any weather. A little bit o' rain and mud was not going to put Jim Moor off his stride. There had been heavy betting on Oddmure before the match and their rivals had tak'n an early lead. Two goals behind after fifteen minutes shoulda been the end of it. But the muddier it got the harder Oddmure were finding it to tackle Jim. He'd pulled one goal back already - one more and they'd be level.

What was left of the crowd were screaming. Only the most loyal ones were still watching - but to be fair the rain was so thick now, it was getting hard for anyone to see what was going on. Most of them were Oddmure supporters, but there was one shouting Jim's name.

A great hulking shape loomed out of the dismal rain. Drew Irons, the Oddmure's fullback was a giant of a man, slower than pig slurry, but six-six and fists like anvils. Jim tucked his head down and looked to swerve the fellow. If one of Drew's fists connected, you were not getting back up in a hurry.

It was only at the last minute that he realised that the man in his way stunk like a week-long fishmarket on a hot day. That should have been the clue that it was not who he thought it was... but no-one like Drew Irons much and good cider takes good apples.

Quick as eel the fellow pounced on him, bearing him down into the mud. The ball came free, but instead of letting him go, his opponent reared back and then lunged forwards to bite a chunk out of his shoulder.

"Aggh!" he screamed in pain, feeling a dozen razor sharp fangs sinking into the flesh through the thick leather of his jerkin. Finally, much too late, he realised this was not Drew Irons, nor any of the Oddmure regulars. At first he thought the little bastards were fielding a bloody ringer, but the murderous look in the creature's eyes quickly cured him of that notion. The thing's face was a mass of murky grey scales, with two great big black eyes bulging out of his skull and a mouth full of pike's teeth. Quite a few of the Oddmure lot were fendwellers, but this one didn't look like any bogfisher Jim had ever seen.

They wrestled in the mud rolling over and over, but the thing was as strong as an ox, and within seconds Jim could feel a pair of cold clammy hands wrap themselves round his neck and begin to choke the life out of him. He struggled desperately, but the monster was just too strong. He flailed around wildly, as he clawed for his last breath. Somewhere he could hear the crowd screaming, but it was all going dark.

Then he felt something rough and hard under his right hand, bigger than a goose egg but small enough to grasp. He grabbed it and with his last breath, slammed the rock into the side of the monster's head with all the force he could muster. The creature roared and reared back, the grip on his throat gone for just long enough to gasp a mouthful of air. He pulled back and swung the rock a second time, striking the creature full in the face so that one of the bulging eyes burst like a bag of wet sick.

The creature roared and tried to pull away, but Jim grabbed at the thing and rolled over so that he was on top. "You're not going anywhere, you fishy little bastard" he spat and he slammed the rock down over and over until the thing lay still.

Clambering to his feet he looked at the carnage around him. The field was panic-stricken, people screaming and running everywhere, creatures running after them like wolves after a flock. At least three of his team mates were down, with sharp toothed monsters tearing into their bodies.

For a brief second he contemplated running. But there was no way he was getting away, so he started marching straight towards the nearest one. If he was going down, then so be it. These bog-eared bastards wouldn't take him without a fight...</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=When Saturday Comes.jpg|align=left|caption=Pride in small things, Loyalty to great ones.|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
Thanks to the [[To the last syllable|soldiers of Cold Sun]], the entire Empire has been in a state of turmoil. Yet some nations have more than their fair share of disruption and chaos. The Marches is one such nation. While [[fortification|fortifications]] and armies [[Army_orders#Billet|billeted]] in [[Upwold]] and [[Mitwold]] have helped deal with the invading heralds of the Day realm, it sometimes seems as if the people of the Marches are their own worst enemies. In Mitwold, the attack from the Day realm is complicated by savage heralds of [[Siakha|the Maelstrom]], although the outcome of these attacks is entirely unexpected. In [[Bregasland]], the lingering impact of Mathilda Fisher's attempt to establish an independent nation between [[Jotun]] and Empire are still being felt. In the [[Mournwold|Mourn]] the matter of the [[Mournwold Orcs]] comes to a head - less violent and disruptive than anarchic entities and simmering grudges but with much further reaching implications, perhaps. At least Upwold is quiet; [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] and [[Navarr]] soldiers rubbing shoulders with human Marchers and Mournwold orcs and the occasional Free Folk straggler, all working together to tend the harvest under the Summer Sun. In between fighting off the emissaries of Cold sun, of course.

==Stormy Monday (Mitwold)==
{{SOP|statement=Hue and cry! Marchers be vigilant! Siakha heralds are present in Marcher lands and have started hunting Mitwolders. The Marcher Assembly calls for priests to prepare. Anoint your fellows. Consecrate your spaces. Hallow your weapons. Hue and cry! Hue and cry!|by=Friar Jonathan Piper|vote=Greater Majority 174-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
<div style="float: right; max-width: 500px; margin-right: 10px; clear: right;">
<quote by=Tancred of Meade>Drakes, we have campaigned hard this year against the Jotun, now we turn for home. We will help with the harvest and billet with our families, but stay alert! For Foes hunt abroad in our land.</quote></div>
Folks grumbled a little when Tancred of Meade ordered the [[Drakes]] to [[Army_orders#Billet|billet]] in [[Mitwold]]. Of course it's great to have a little extra help with the fields, people love the Drakes, but shouldn't they be off in Tromsa with the other armies hunting down Mathilda Fisher? The orders come down that everyone is to stay alert because an attack is expected, but there are more than a few eyebrows raised. Where is this attack coming from? The [[Jotun]] are bloody miles away... The warning by '''Friar Jonathan Piper''' provides an explanation, but people struggle to appreciate the scale of the threat. There's no sign of this Siakha and surely the heroes at Anvil can deal with a dozen heralds?

Those grumbles come to an abrupt end when the forces of the Cold Sun attack. In reality Forte Fidelis would probably have been enough to ensure that Cold Sun is unable to get a toehold in the territory, but it doesn't hurt one bit to have the Drakes there watching every farm for any sign of trouble. They quickly deal with the incipient threat. More than one tankard of ale is raised in thanks to the general for putting Marchers first for a bloody change. Everyone is relieved that the danger has been averted.

And that's when the sharks come...

===The Attack===
* '''The Drakes have taken 30 casualties and cannot resupply'''
* '''The army has managed to protect almost everyone, but the Wayford Wanderers are no more'''
The first sign of '''real''' trouble is when the foot-the-ball match between the Wayford Wanderers and the Oddmure Allfriars is attacked by a pack of hungry sharks. Not sharks precisely, these monsters have a human-ish body topped with a fish-like head with a mouth full of razor sharp fangs. They come out of the Eastmere, during a heavy storm, and attack everyone at the match, apparently intent on consuming everyone present. A bloody battle ensues - most of the sharks are dead or fled by the time the fighting is done, but there are only a handful of survivors from those participating and watching the match. The Allfriars managed to flee the worst of it, but Jim Moor, the Wanderers' captain, and his team mates go into the good earth. By the time it's all done, the Wayford Wanderers have played their last match and are no more.

There are more attacks in the weeks that follow, scores of them the length and breadth of Mitwold. They are usually presaged by heavy storms that seem to blow up out of nowhere. There is no rhyme or rhythm to the attacks. No strategy that anyone can perceive. Just wild abandon, murderous rage and an apparently insatiable desire to consume every living thing in Mitwold. Not just lives are threatened: the creatures take delight in firing farmsteads and salting the earth in fields, farms and gardens.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Shark mouths.jpg|align=right|caption=Siakha's heralds are invariably savage killers.|width=500}}</div>
It is hard to conceive how badly Mitwold might have suffered... were it not for the presence of the Drakes. Everywhere the sharks show up, Tancred's soldiers are ready for them. Wild savagery may be terrifying for a helpless friar or a defenceless landskeeper, but it's no match at all for a line of bills and stout brigs. Scores of the shark monsters are literally gutted like fish, in running skirmishes the length and breadth of Mitwold. From the Meadows to Oddmure to the Golden Downs, wherever the monsters attack.... Tancred's forces are ready and waiting for them.

They don't get off scot free of course. The best part of thirty lives are lost to the attack and any hope of a quiet season of resupplying in Mitwold are lost. But a hundred lives are saved for every one that is lost. Tancred's prudent foresight and planning has saved Mitwold from an unimaginable fate. By the end of the season, the Drakes are struggling to keep order in the ranks, because every time one of them goes to a tavern or an inn, there are a dozen people trying to buy them a drink.

The view of most folk in Mitwold is that Jim Moor might not be on the pitch anymore, but it's still Marchers 1, Sharks 0 at full time.

===The Aftermath===
* '''In recognition of their strength, the Maelstrom offers a boon to the Drakes'''
* '''Accepting the Maelstrom's offer is almost certainly illegal while Siakha is under enmity'''
If there was ever any real doubt who is behind the attack on Mitwold, then it is largely dispelled by the arrival of a messenger as the season draws to a close. A ragged orc arrives onboard a merchant ship in [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]]. They are dressed in the colours of the [[Grendel]] but claim to serve the [[Siakha|Maelstrom]] rather than the Salt Lords' Council. They ask to parlay with a representative of the land's defenders. There is some reluctance to accept the parlay, but technically the Empire are still at peace with the Grendel and so eventually they are shown into the presence of a representative of the Drakes.

Once there the orc confirms that the attacks on Mitwold represent the will of the Maelstrom. He claims that the Maelstrom has taken what was offered - no more and no less. But the Marchers have proved they are a match for the ''Mother-of-Wrecks'' and thus she has decided to grant them the boon the Empire requested.

Once - and once only - the general of the Drakes may invoke her aid by issuing orders to their army calling on the ''Empress of Sharks'' to join them in battle that season. If that happens, then Siakha will send their heralds to prey on the weak, the wounded, and the bloodied on both sides. There will be more deaths in every army; the Maelstrom does not play favourites. If that happens then the savage, brutal cruelty will also terrify the weak-willed - those armies on either side that lack the strength of will to survive will break.

If the boon is invoked, all casualties taken by armies in the same territory with the Drakes (and the Drakes themselves) will increase by a tenth. ''Any'' army in the same territory that falls below a military strength of 1,500 (or 2,250 for a Large army) will break. The presence of Siakha's blessing is impossible to conceal and is always obvious to all other armies in the same territory. Invoking the Empress of Sharks [[curse|curses]] a territory so that all participants in battle are pushed towards fury and bloodshed. Soldiers fight with ruthless zeal, butchering any enemy they get an opportunity to kill. Casualties of all forces are increased as soldiers seek out opportunities to punish the enemy. Every opportunity is taken to maximise the suffering of the enemy, those who are captured or surrender find themselves brutally executed and summary justice is meted out to any civilian who acts to support the enemy.

Despite the use of various different sobriquets, it is painfully clear that the "Maelstrom" is simply Siakha, an eternal that is very definitely [[Alignment#Enmity|under enmity]]. Trading or dealing with an eternal under enmity is illegal and will be investigated as treason. That means it is illegal to use the boon. Nor can the Conclave cannot endorse the use of it - the only thing they could do is lift the enmity on Siakha - which would make the Empire vulnerable to further attacks from the eternal. If this "boon" had a physical form - if it was an item that someone could hold then Imperial law instructs the militia to confiscate and destroy the item. But there is nothing to seize here - and no possibility that Tancred can be accused of breaking the law simply because this promise has been made. It would only be a crime if they (or their successor) chose to invoke this boon while Siakha is under enmity.

Of course that assumes anyone in the Marches has the ''slightest'' interest in the accepting the "reward" of an eternal that has just spent three months trying to slaughter every living being in Mitwold.

'''OOC Note:''' There is no time-limit on this boon but it can be invoked once ''ever''. It must be absolutely clear from the general's orders that the boon is being invoked otherwise nothing will happen.

===A Passing Grade===
* '''Mitwold fleets that raided the Jotun coasts return with double the returns they were expecting'''
* '''Marcher fleets that are enchanted with Blood and Salt this downtime will receive an additional four additional measures of Tempest Jade'''
Not everyone in Mitwold suffers in the attacks taking place in the territory this season. Those Marcher [[fleet|fleets]] that spend the months far away from home and only return at the end of the season are broadly oblivious to what is going on... But not it seems, too far to be affected. When the first Meade ship returns from [[Fleet#Raid_Kalsea.27s_coastline|raiding along the Gullet Shore]] their holds groan ''double'' the returns they were expecting. They speak of sharks in the Gullet, and of peculiar assistance in finding rich Jotun targets to attack. Captains have strange tales of assistance from powerful shark-like creatures that shadowed their vessels the whole time, waiting for any opportunity to attack their enemies. Some were led to where damaged ships waited, lilting in the water. Others find their vessel steered by chaotic winds towards the most vulnerable Jotun settlements, or report a strange bird with a bloodied beak that led them to the easy pickings on a Jotun caravan too close to the waters edge. The Landskeepers make a careful investigation of the phenomena. There is no sign of dubious [[enchantment|enchantments]] on the vessels themselves. There is some boon at work - some powerful [[Spring magic]] - but there is no evidence at all that it is any part of the captain's doing.

At the same time the ragged Grendel is meeting with the Drakes, an even more peculiar emissary visits ''Jarvey "Strongoar" Oddsboy'', the steward of the small Marcher household who oversees Steward's Landing. A massive mad-eyed "orc", skin marked with contrasting piebald patches of black and white, with a mouthful of pointed teeth apparently dragged herself out of the waters of the Gullet and sought out the Marcher steward with a message from ''Blood-in-the-Water''. The creature - it becomes increasingly clear that they are no kind of orc - has been charged to deliver a message to the "soft, meaty southern folks". Their strength has been noticed and ''Blood-in-the-Water'' recognises it and offers boons to the saltfolk and soilfolk alike. It takes a little while to understand precisely what is being offered but once the details are untangled, the creature departs. Strongoar immediately sets about sharing what he has learned.

"''Blood-in-the-Water''" is clearly another name for Siakha. The eternal sees the Drakes as indistinguishable from the people of the Marches. She offers a boon during the Autumn Equinox. Any [[coven]] or [[magician]] from the Marches performing [[Blood and Salt]] or [[Merciless Wrath of the Reaver]] on Marcher targets can draw on the boon. The targets must be cut - enough to inflict a wound (that is, a cut inflicting at least a hit of damage) - and blood allowed to flow. The contributors must invoke Siakha by one of her common names and accept her boon. If this is done, then the ritual will be empowered.('''OOC Note:''' The ritualists will need to make sure the referee knows they are invoking the boon so it can be recorded alongside the ritual effect).
* ''Blood and Salt'' will provide two additional ingots of tempest jade to anyone taking the [[Fleet#Take_Independent_Action|privateering]] action, or ''four'' additional ingots if they participate in the [[Fleet#Raid_Kalsea.27s_coastline|Raid Kalsea's coastline]] adventure.
* Merciless Wrath of the Reaver will provide two additional ingots of tempest jade if they undertake [[Military_unit#Take_Independent_Action|independent action]], but unlike the normal effect of the ritual the target [[military unit]] will ''also'' gain the benefits of the ritual if they [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support]] a Marcher army.
* In both cases the roleplaying effects of the ritual are heightened; rather than fading after ten minutes they persists for as long as the enchantment lasts.
*If one of the two rituals is made [[Ilium#Using_ilium_in_rituals|permanent with ilium]] both the heightened effects and the roleplaying effect are made permanent.
* The effect on the fleet or military unit are also heightened; your crew or soldiers will be noticeably bloodthirsty, violent, and keen to engage in brutal combat even when guarding a caravan or patrolling a region. You should consider including elements of this in any story you make about what you and your personal resource do during downtime.
The obvious problem with this boon is that it comes from an eternal under [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]]. It is a crime to invoke this boon, and anyone caught doing so will likely face prosecution, so anyone planning to do so would need to avoid being caught by the militia. The [[Detect_magic#Discern_Enchantment|discern enchantment]] effect of [[detect magic]] will not reveal an enchantment on a personal resource. However, [[Bright Lantern of Ophis]] cast on a character whose resource has been enchanted in this way ''will'' reveal that they have been used as the conduit for a ritual empowered by a Spring eternal provided the magician specifically asks the referee.
{{SOP|statement=The Marcher assembly recognises the service of the folk of House Greywater in support of the Strong Reeds in Bregasland as equivalent to two years service in a Marcher army, entitling them to a parcel of Bregas land, as any others who serve would receive.|by=Friar Rosemary Stamp|vote=Greater Majority 176-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
==War Requiem (Bregasland)==
The defenders of Bregasland [[To_the_last_syllable#In_the_Marches|draw on the power]] of [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen|magical wards]] to help protect the scattered households from Cold Sun. While the invaders are a threat, they are a straightforward one that can be resolved with martial might.

If only all the problems in Bregasland in the wake of its liberation from the Fishers could be settled so easily! As it is, there is a swirling stew of grudges, old rivalries, jealousy, and anger bubbling away in the fens, and it is dangerously close to coming to the boil. The rejection of the Greywater's request coupled with the offers of forgiveness extended to those households who were turned against the Empire has left the territory in a febrile state. The magistrates and militia are doing everything they can to maintain order at present, but the situation demands urgent action.
===House Greywater===
{{WingedMessenger|address=With the Greywaters mostly returned to their holdings, it should be possible to send a [[Call Winged Messenger|Winged Messenger]] to ''Steward Margery Greywater'' at ''Greywater Farm, North Fens, Bregasland'' although what sort of reception such a message would receive is hard to predict.}}
* '''House Greywater are unhappy with the response of the Synod and Senate'''
When the Jotun and their self-styled Steward were in Bregasland, [[The_Marches_groups#House_Greywater|House Greywater]] were front-and-centre in the resistance. They worked with the [[Strong Reeds]] to stymie the orcs and the Fishers at every turn. The Marcher Assembly [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_166|recognised their Loyalty, Courage, and Vigilance]], and urged their neighbours to put the House's bad reputation behind them. Before the Summer Solstice, ''Margery Greywater'' [[Welly_boots#The_Answer_Lies_In_The_Soil|suggested]] that her if the Assembly really wanted to reward them, the household could could get good use out of the damaged [[The_Marches_economic_interests#The_Imperial_Breadbasket|Bregasland breadbasket buildings]]. They would store food and seed in the silos, and charge other farmers to keep their excess supplies in them. This would provide a good living for House Greywater, and secure their [[Prosperity]]. But it would mean no more Breadbasket in Bregasland, which would have obvious downsides. There was no sign the Marcher senators are interested in giving the Greywaters what they have asked for - or anything else in fact. At the Summer Solstice, the [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] (working through a [[proxy]]) stumped up the money to restore the Bregasland granaries and seed stores, and the Greywaters are smart enough to know that means their request isn't going to be fulfilled.

'''Friar Rosemary Stamp''' suggested that their "service" to Bregasland was equivalent to the service any Marcher might give if they fought alongside an army; that they could be given a parcel of farmland as a reward. Leaving aside the fact that no national assembly can change how the reward of land secured in the Imperial Constitution can be applied, the suggestion is of no benefit to House Greywater. Margery Greywater publicly points out that her Household already ''has'' farmland - much of it secured by exactly the kind of service Friar Rosemary suggests. They have as much land as they can farm already, more won't help them one iota. What she ''wanted'' was actual a reward for the Loyalty of the Greywaters, for their Courage, and Vigilance, during the occupation of Bregasland. It's clear she's not happy with the Assembly response, nor that the Senator for Bregasland considered it more important to establish a [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Create_title_of_Speaker_of_the_Magpies|sodality of artefact hunters]] than offer any kind of actual, measurable reward to her household.

It's probably not intentional, but the outcome has reinforced the prejudices of the Greywater's detractors. House Brawness in particular, known enemies of the Greywaters, are at the forefront of those suggesting that perhaps their contribution to the fight against the Jotun was not as great as they had claimed after all. Other households who have had problems with the Greywaters in the past agree; surely the Strong Reeds did the real work, and the Greywaters have overplayed how much support they gave them? Maybe they're just trying to poach some of the gratitude due General Amberlain and the brave soldiers of the 'Reeds. Perhaps the National Assembly was too hasty in suggesting that their virtues should be recognised in the first place. Maybe their vaunted "deep knowledge of the marshes" comes from the amount of sneaking around they do when they're looking to get rich off other peoples' hard work. And so on.

And a few Bregas mutter darkly that this apparent snubbing of House Greywater is ''exactly'' the kind of thing old Bushell Sykes was talking about. That the Empire, and the well-dressed Marchers who visit [[Anvil]] four times a year, talk a good game but once push comes to shove discard anyone who is no longer immediately useful to them. "Pride in small things, loyalty to great ones indeed," they say, and spit.

===Collaboration===
* '''Three significant households stand accused of collaboration with Mathilda Fisher'''
Mathilda Fisher may have come with Jotun support, but she made a song and dance of trying to turn Bregasland into an independent nation rather than a vassal of the orcs. She made [[False_kings#Fisher.27s_Voice|any number of claims]] about her plans, and about the Empire, and some people listened to her words. In the last few months of her tenure at Fisher's Rock, she went so far as to set up a ''Council of Bregas'' - inviting Stewards from many of the households in the territory to send representatives with whom "she planned to share power." Allegedly Bushel Sykes suggested the idea to her as a way to demonstrate Loyalty to the people who all too often viewed her and her family as foreign conquerors. It was not a great success, and seems to have been purely advisory, but now that Bregasland is back as part of the Marches, its legacy is one of suspicion.

It's no secret in Bregasland that some households were a little more... enthusiastic... about the presence of the Fishers than others. Mathilda did her best to woo any household that would support her reign, or listen to her wild claims and criticisms of the Empire. The Strong Reeds, the Greywaters, and the Marcher Assembly did their best to discourage people from paying too much attention to her obvious lies, but the Marchers are a practical and Ambitious people. Sometimes accommodations have to be made, if you don't want to give up your land. Few people are questioning those who kept their heads down in pursuit of a quiet life. Unfortunately, some people maybe went a way beyond that. Three households in particular are seeing a lot of angry glances in their direction now that the water is going down a little and the mud needs clearing.
====House Brawness of the North Fens====
Among some of the loudest voices questioning House Greywater's actual contributions to resisting the Jotun is House Brawness. Arguably they might be wiser to hold their tongues right now. During the occupation, they initially presented themselves as "neutral" with regards to the Fishers and the Jotun, and urged their neighbours to do the same. This didn't stop them being implicated in an [[Laid_low#Through_the_moonlight_.28Conjunction.29|attack against]] House Greywater's farms while they were busy fighting the Fishers. The orcs involved were stopped, and no conclusive evidence as to whether House Brawness were actively collaborating with them was recovered. There were claims at the time, reiterated now Bregalsand is free, that ''Steward Aldith Brawness'' and her yeomen allowed the Jotun to rest and recuperate in their lands, and that they received payment from the Fishers for their cooperation. Aldith herself took part in Mathilda's short-lived advisory council. The Brawness are a large household, and several smaller households in the North Fens looked to them for guidance. There are claims that that guidance was to work with the Jotun and the Fishers.
====The Droverbill Clan of Grey Fens====
The Droverbills of the south-eastern [[Bregasland#Grey Fens|Grey Fens]] refer to themselves variously as a "clan" or "family" and it's a fair descriptor. The household encourages strong blood-ties, and nobody who isn't a Droverbill by birth or marriage has ever done well in dealings with them. They're known to be fairly Ambitious as well, always needling away at neighbouring farms, trying to persuade their fellow yeomen to sell up or join the family. The household is also notable because it's widely believed to have connections with the [[Feni]] of the deep marshes. They don't deny they did well during the occupation; they claim it was money earned by selling the produce of their lands. The accusations that they were paid by Mathilda Fisher to use their influence with the Feni families to keep them from causing trouble for the Jotun. The Greywaters claim they turned down repeated requests for assistance against the invaders, claiming they weren't prepared to risk reprisals from the orcs. ''Steward Tress Droverbull'' sent her eldest daughter ''Joan'' to serve on the "Council of Bregas", and it's easy to see why folk in southern and eastern Bregasland are unhappy with the Droverbills.
====The Clakes of Beandown====
In [[Bregasland#The_Rushes|the Rushes]], not far from Sallow, the Clakes of Beandown served on Fisher's council and were gifted lands and animals taken from other households in the region. Their neighbours say that these gifts were given to them in return for information provided about households that were helping the Greywaters and the 'Reeds, or in some cases just ''talking'' about doing so, or just criticising the Fishers in general. ''Sammy Clake'', steward of the house, has denied this, and returned some of the land, but argues that they worked hard in return for the goats the Jotun gave them - although he's remarkably reticent about explaining what that work was. Shortly after the Summer Solstice, three of the neighbouring households banded together to play the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Rough_music|rough music]] for the Clakes. Shortly before the Autumn Equinox there is a more serious disturbance when a large group of yeomen attempted to take back goats they claimed were stolen from them, and found the Clakes waiting for them. Three people died in the resulting fracas, and the magistrates arrested two members of House Hiswen and Sammy Clake's elder brother Rory for their parts in these deaths.

===Taking Action===
* '''The Magistrates have asked the Imperial Senate to provide a clear statement to help quieten tensions in Bregasland'''
* '''Neither the Imperial Synod nor the Silent Bell can provide any additional help to resolve this situation'''
* '''Every available option has significant drawbacks'''

There has been [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_160|some talk]] at Anvil that the Bregas should show "benevolence" to those "''who were turned away from the Empire by Bushel Sykes''". While the words of '''Edmund of Barrowby''' came within a hair's breadth of a [[greater majority]], the Assembly was clearly divided on where the problem lay. But even if they had been supported with a greater majority, it's not clear they would have made that much difference. There is a strong argument to be made that it wasn't Bushel Sykes that turned the Brawness, the Droverbills, the Cleeks, or any of the other larger households that ultimately supported Mathilda Fisher. They were turned, claim many of those who did ''not'' prosper under the Fishers, by their own Ambition and greed. All Bushel Sykes did was urge folk to put their Loyalty to Bregasland ahead of Loyalty to the Marches or the Empire.

Despite the calls for calm many in Bregasland are inclined to grudges, and as the business with the Clakes shows they're not afraid to act on them. Margery Greywater has been adding fuel to the fire pointing out that those who sided with the Fishers got fat purses full of thrones while those who opposed them got nowt but fair words. While three households are the target of most of the ire, there's a growing tide of resentment between people who think they suffered more than their neighbours did under the Jotun yoke, or who believe the folk from three farms over of having been sympathetic to the Fishers. There's even a few people who didn't pay a lot of attention to Bushel Sykes while he was alive, but who are now wondering if maybe he had a point.

The [[Silent Bell (Sodality)|Silent Bell]] can't help - there is nothing they can discover that isn't widely known already. Their speciality is in finding threats to the Empire, with the Jotun gone and Bushel Sykes dead, there are no immediate threats. There's no suggestion that anyone is making any attempt to work with the Jotun or the Fishers now that they're gone. Likewise the Imperial Synod cannot calm this situation with statements or mandates, attitudes have hardened too much for people to be talked round now. A statement to get people fired up would be put a spark to the fire, but no-one is any mood to listen to an attmept to reduce the tensions at the moment.

The situation is becoming intolerable and the magistrates have asked the Imperial Senate to provide a statement, it won't carry legal standing, but it will led people know where they stand. That won't solve the bickering, but if the Senate act, it will be enough to stop a descent into violence - at least for now. As a result, the Civil Service have only been able to identify three possible courses of action that the [[Imperial Senate]] could take, each of which comes with very significant drawbacks.

<div style="float: right; max-width:400px; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Marcher Proverb">Nothing dries faster than a tear.</quote></div>
====Draw A Line====
* '''The Senate could inform the Bregas that the magistrates have done all that can be done to investigate this matter and that they now intend to draw a line under the sorry affair'''
* '''The Greywaters and everyone who opposed to Jotun will be furious that those who collaborated have gone unpunished'''

Guided by the magistrates, the militia have not been tardy in investigating matters in Bregasland. Chief Magistrate Karkovitch is eager to identify anyone who might have committed treason or other crimes during the occupation and see that due punishment follows. Sadly they have been stymied at every turn - there are wild accusations flying everywhere, but precious little proof. Every household that sat down and talked with Mathilda Fisher is close-mouthed and uncooperative - they deny everything they can. Nobody can give evidence against another house without incriminating themselves. A few unpopular individuals are identified and ratted out, to face trial, but it's painfully clear that the ringleaders of any collaboration with the Jotun are currently escaping justice.

Regrettably therefore, Karkovitch and his magistrates are faced with the unavoidable truth that unless they take extraordinary measures they are not going to find the proof they need to pass judgement on those who are guilty. What information they have amounts to gossip with no little evidentiary basis beyond hearsay and rumours. That summary (presented above) presents an unedifying picture, but it does not amount to sufficient to try anyone of importance for treason. Of course, they will always be open to new evidence, but as things stand, Karkovitch has asked the Speaker to inform the Senate that there is nothing further he can do and that the best thing now would be for the Senate to use a motion to let the Bregas now that the magistrates have done everything they can and that the Senate intends to draw a line under the matter and take no further action.

Such an approach also appears to be broadly in line with what the Marcher assembly wants. The [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_160|statement of principle by Edmund of Barrowby]] seems to suggest that it is passed time for everyone in Bregasland to draw a line under this whole sorry mess. The Imperial Senate could adopt that as their official position - and if they explicitly use the phrase "draw a line" under this issue, then people in Bregasland will at least know where they stand.

This approach will obviously appeal to those households and their allies who are currently facing hostility of their neighbours. The problem is that it will infuriate House Greywater and everyone like them who refused to collaborate. The Greywaters gave everything to fight the Fishers. They left their lands to take up the fight, their homes were attacked and damaged, and they risked death at every turn while the Brawness and their allies profited by siding with the Fishers. What was the point in fighting for the Empire, they will bitterly ask, pointing out that they would have been better off siding with the Jotun. They won't take action now, the Senate motion will see to that, but ''it will store up trouble for years to come''.

<div style="float: right; max-width:400px; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Marcher Proverb">Sow, tend and reap; fight, toil and weep.</quote></div>

====Send In the Magistrates====
* '''The Senate could instruct the magistrates to go into Bregasland in force'''
* '''Rooting out the traitors will cause massive upheaval in the territory will incur costs of 25 thrones and cause widespread disruption in the short term'''
* '''The allies of everyone who is punished will grow more hostile to the Empire'''

In the past, when faced with the most dangerous recidivist elements, the Imperial Senate has given the magistrates the approval to use an overwhelming show of force to get results. Karkovitch has confirmed that that would be possible here, he is prepared to send hundreds of militia into Bregasland and turn over every household looking for evidence. Such an approach would be invasive, and divisive, it would create a great deal of hostility, albeit more from those who had something to hide. However, based on past experiences, Karkovitch believes it would work, it would give the magistrates the opportunity to find the evidence they need to prosecute those genuinely guilty of treason.

Legally, Karkovitch has the power to proceed, but rather than doing so, he is asking for the Senate to approve this course of action, because the costs are not inconsequential. Such approval will means that more of the resulting anger is directed at the Senate and less at Karkovitch's people. And there will be significant anger - top-to-bottom searches of every household property, every farmstead, every barn, will cause widespread disruption in the lives of ordinary Bregas. The prognosticators calculate that such disruption would cost 25 Thrones in the coming season, paying for losses and damages. More significantly, the upheaval would mean every [[Resource#Personal Resource|personal resource]] in the territory take a -1 penalty to production following the event where the motion was passed (including fleets and military units).

As long as the motion backing the raids are raised by the Senator for Bregasland most of the Bregas would cooperate (although they would grumble about it). If a different Marcher senator raises the motion the grumbling would be louder; if a non-Marcher senator raised it then there might be open resistance to and opposition to the work of the Magistrates. Regardless of who does the dirty work, the nature of any investigation like this is that it will reap a harvest of bad feeling among everyone who counts one of the traitors as a friend. The punishment of the magistrates will fall squarely on the shoulders of the guilty, no-one who is innocent will be harmed. But there is a wide river between "guilty of treason" and "sympathetic to the Empire". Everyone whose sympathies lie with any of those who end up being executed will inevitably feel their friends were hard done by. They won't be in any position to do anything about it right now - because everyone who might have openly opposed Imperial rule in Bregasland will be dead - but ''it will store up trouble for years to come''.

<div style="float: right; max-width:400px; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Marcher Proverb"> There's two ways to bury a hatchet.</quote></div>

====Let It Run Its Course====
* '''Karkovitch strongly advises the Senate not to leave the matter to the Bregas to resolve themselves'''
* '''If that happens then Bregasland will explode into violence, as people take matters into their own hands to settle the scores'''
* '''The Greywaters will extract their revenge, but the scars will harden into deep grudges for many years'''

If the Imperial Senate does not act, and nothing else is done, then the civil service predict that Bregas will take matters into their own hands. The simmering violence will explode and the households that supported the Empire will take bloody retribution from those who chose the other side. The violence won't last long - it will be a hot fire that burns out quickly. But Bregasland will face a season of chaos and carnage as people use this opportunity to settle old scores. The militia will do everything they can to maintain order, but as the situation with the Clakes shows, things can get out of hand very quickly. Imperial commissions in the territory will definitely be at risk unless an army is stationed in Bregasland to protect structures like the recently repaired Breadbasket.

Imperial prognosticators calculate that the Greywaters and their allies will likely come out on top, not least because they will probably be the instigators of much of the violence. Individual members of House Brawness, the Clakes, and the Droverbills might remain, but the households will be gone. Their leaders will face rough music or worse, and their estates will be looted and fired. The wealth they acquired from collaborating with the Fishers will be shared out amongst those Households who remained loyal to the Empire.

This will be a disaster for the rule of law in the Empire, and Karkovitch strongly requests that the Imperial Senate do not take this route. To do would be tacitly accepting that the people of Bregasland are going to take the law into their own hands and go way beyond rough music and shunning. The magistrates will do what they can to stop the violence and to investigate afterwards but they will be powerless to stop it unless the Imperial Senate acts.

If that happens, then those who likely collaborated would pay the price. The taxation derived from Bregasland would be permanently impacted as a result of the lost households but it would ensure there was no possibility of anyone collaborating with Mathilda Fisher or her kin should they return in the short term. However ''it will store up trouble for years to come'' as those on losing side who survive will nurse bitter grudges against their enemies, in the Marches and the Empire.

===The Death of Bushel Sykes===
* '''Poacher and instigator Bushel Sykes has been killed'''
* '''Accusations of murder have been made naming several prominent Imperial citizens'''
No discussion of collaboration in Bregasland would be complete without a mention of ''Bushel Sykes''. An unrepentant poacher, the man openly threw his lot in with Mathilda Fisher and her household. He helped the Jotun widen Odd's Way, and used stolen [[liao]] to create [[aura|auras]] of [[Loyalty]] supporting the Fishers. There were concerns that he could [[Chasing_you_home#Objective:_Deal_with_Bushel_Sykes|continue to spread rebellion]] even after the Fishers themselves were driven out. He claimed to be motivated more by a dislike of the Empire than any affection for the self-styled Steward and her family. In the end though he turned up in Ottery, [[Welly_boots#Pride_In_Small_Things_.28Conjunction.29|making no attempt to hide]]. And then he turned up dead.

Most people would be unsurprised that a man as cantankerous as 'Shel Sykes met a bad end, but there is a significant problem. According to a witness, ''Harry Brewer'', the landlord of the ''Wet Dog'' tavern, Sykes was murdered by "folk from [[Anvil]]". Harry raised a [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Hue_and_cry|hue and cry]], but Sykes' killers evaded justice; it's believed they were visiting Ottery through the [[Sentinel Gate]] and fled to [[Anvil]] after the deed was done. Harry identified two of the killers - none other than '''Amberlain P. Black''' herself, the [[general]] of the Strong Reeds, and her fellow general [[Highguard|Highborn]] '''General Asenath''' of the [[Granite Pillar]]. They were accompanied by three others including a Freeborn, a Marcher priest, and another Marcher. Harry Brewer has provided sworn testimony that they killed Sykes in cold blood. The landlord was not privy to the entire conversation, but says that Sykes was killed to prevent him telling folk in Bregasland to cleave to their Loyalty to Bregasland rather than the Empire.

Bushel Sykes was a notorious poacher, and few people actually mourn his passing. He was a collaborator - he supported the Jotun and the Fishers. He was a seditionist - he openly spoke about Bregasland being better off without the Empire. At the same time, he was a Marcher citizen, and there's no indication he was given anything approaching a trial. On returning to Anvil, the citizens involved plead guilty and were tried by the magistrates; details of the outcome are given in the court reports.

In life, Sykes was not well-liked. Now that he's dead, even the few friends he had are being very careful who they talk to about it. It's possible the man himself is likely to be forgotten, but the manner of his death unfortunately adds credence to his claims that the Empire, and "the fine people who go to Anvil" don't actually care about Bregasland, don't respect its people, and don't care what they think or what they want, and will simply crush them if they dare to step out of line. It remains to be seen what impact this poacher's legacy will have on the people of the Marches.
{{SOP|statement=The prosperous are not selfish and the proud proclaim their virtue by actions not words. Let every Marcher yeoman and steward welcome to the orcs of the Mournwold, and treat them as they would any other young Marcher seeking hard work and fair pay. We send Aliss Thorn with 75 doses of liao to ensure everyone knows that it is our ambition to make one people out of two, and a job that never gets started never gets finished.|by=Aliss Thorn|vote=Greater Majority 200-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
{{SOP|statement=The Mourne orcs are our neighbours. At the request of Hap the Soft, this assembly urges Marchers to offer shelter and sanctuary to the Mourne orcs, should the need arise.|by=Sister Meredith|vote=Greater Majority 190-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}

==The Field (Mournwold Orcs)==
* '''Orcs have travelled from Mournwold to all the Marcher territories, and been assured of a welcome by the National Assembly'''
* '''Orcs and humans worked together to repel the attacks of Cold Sun'''
* '''The Egregore has reported that Mournwold Orcs could join the nation as Marchers'''
It could have been better timed, obviously, but the last three months has seen an influx of young people from Mournwold into the other three Marcher territories. During the Summer Solstice, the Marcher National Assembly [[Sense_and_sensibility#A_Busy_Time_of_Year|gave assurances]] to the [[Mournwold Orcs]] that means that a significant portion of these young folk are [[orc|orcs]] for the first time ever. Coupled with the orc labourers working alongside their human neighbours on the Black Canal, and the handful of orcish merchants trading with their peers to the north, this now means that most Marchers have met or know someone who has met one of the Mournwold orcs. A lot of them have worked alongside them, eaten and drunk with them, played foot-the-ball with and against them. Thanks in part to the urging of '''Sister Meredith''', they've also seen them work to keep people alive in the face of Cold Sun's attacks, healing, carrying, bearing messages; they may not fight themselves but they're as likely as any Marcher to play a part when lives are on the line. It's not been entirely idyllic - Aliss Thorn and their fellow priests have had their work cut out for them smoothing over misunderstandings and helping to answer questions from folk who've never travelled far from home. There's still people out there who don't want to see orcs in the Marches, or don't see why they can't all move to [[Skarsind]]. But those people are in the minority. For a very great many Marchers, the question of the Mournwold Orcs is not ''if'' they can join, but ''when''.

As predicted, the mandate, and the visiting orcs, is being seen as a clear communication that the National Assembly is working to bring the Mournwold Orcs into their nation for good or ill. It's perhaps surprising how quickly some people switch from asking "can these orcs even really be Marchers?" to "Let's get our orcs into the Marches by the new year, we can't let the League steal a march on us!" Or perhaps not; this has been a long time coming and with the [[Windfall#|Apulian orcs]] joining [[the League]], it is clear that the old superstitions about whether orcs and humans could belong to the same nation are being upended.

Shortly before the Autumn Equinox, the ''real'' impact of the hard work done by the Marcher Assembly becomes clear. The Marcher [[egregores|egregore]] Jack confirms what some people already suspect: it is possible for Mournwold Orcs to bond to them and become Marchers. They could join tomorrow, if they wanted. This isn't widespread knowledge yet, but with the pig out of the sack, it's a matter of time before every Marcher - human and orc alike - knows it.
===At Odds With The Synod===
* '''The Marcher national assembly could enact a mandate to bring the Mournwold orcs into the nation'''
Just because it can be done, doesn't mean it should be done, of course. People have been patient - perhaps they can be patient for another few months? The issue is that while the Marchers as a nation are prepared to see the former Jotun thralls as their neighbours in spirit as well as in geography, the rest of the Empire might not be. The glaring problem that the Marcher orcs believe that they reincarnate - putting them at odds with the [[Doctrines of the Faith]] - remains. It just isn't, apparently, a concern that would stop the other Marchers accepting them.

There's a saying, older than the Marches, that suggests it is easier to act and deal with the consequences than it is to get everyone agree to what should be done. When the Assembly threw its weight behind the innocuous-seeming encouragement to welcome the young orcs onto Marcher farms, they told their people that they were working to bring the Mournwold Orcs into their nation for good or ill. In spite of whether it might set them at odds with the rest of the Synod, and with the intention to seek a [[change of doctrine]] in the General Assembly.
{{Mandate|mandate=Those orcs who once were thralls of the Jotun are Marchers. They've been patient, and we won't keep them waiting while the rest of the Empire argues about what we know to be true. We send (named priest) with the egregore Jack to welcome them into our nation, and we will look to the paperwork later.|assembly=Marches National Assembly}}
If this mandate - which requires no liao - is enacted then the Marcher assembly makes it clear to their own people, and to the Empire, that the Mournwold Orcs should be Marchers. The job isn't over - doctrine will still need to be changed. The Synod will need to accept that orcs are capable of reincarnating, most likely meaning that the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Human_Destiny|Doctrine of Human Destiny]] and the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Howling_Abyss|Doctrine of the Howling Abyss]] will need to change. It will make the entire issue much more pressing - but you throw water on the roof that's burning as the saying goes. Such precipitous action might be just the push the Synod needs to accept what the Mournwold Orcs and their friends are saying. Or it might plunge everything into a bitter argument, ten times worse than what is going on at the moment. Its hard to say - but consequences are the price of Ambition after all.
===Hap, Graime, and Knott (Conjunction)===
* '''Questioner Graime has been turned away from Golden Hoof Farm and ''shunned'' by the folk there'''
* '''An invitation has been sent out to for Imperial Orcs preachers to visit the orc spiritual leader'''
* '''A conjunction of the Sentinel Gate has been identified to allow seven people to visit ''Golden Hoof Farm, Green March, Mournwold'' at 16:30 on the Saturday during the coming summit'''
{{SOP|statement=The souls of the Mourn orcs are in danger. While the Marchers' efforts to accept the Mourn orcs as their own are praiseworthy, more has to be done. The Mourn orcs are still suffering under the lies of the Jotun, deceived into throwing their souls into the Abyss. The Mourn orcs do not need to lay down the plough to pick up a sword if this is not in their nature - a Legend soaked in rhubarb is as much a Legend as one soaked in blood. However, a Legend not sought is a Legend not to be. To cross the Abyss we get no second chances. We encourage the Marches to throw away the lies of the Jotun instead of the souls of their orc siblings. We encourage the Mourn orcs to listen to their ancestors for guidance and seize their Legend for themselves in this, their - one life.|by=Bloodcrow Knottt|vote=Greater Majority 78-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
At the same time all this is going on, an Apulian Orc questioner by the name of '''Graime''' turns up at [[Mournwold_spoils_of_war#The_Golden_Hoof|Golden Hoof Farm]] to talk to ''Hap the Soft''. He's apparently there to offer advice to the Mournwold Orcs about how best to navigate the treacherous waters of joining an Imperial nation, and the importance of compromise when it comes to matters of belief. Apparently, the League orc is there at the behest of his peers in the Synod. He is welcomed, a little warily. He spends a little less than an hour talking to Hap, and is then invited to leave. More than that, he is actively [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Shunning|shunned]] by Hap and the folk who live and work on his farm. After Graime has left, Hap makes it clear that folk like that are ''not'' welcome on his farm. "Anyone who'll throw their beliefs into the fire when the weather changes brings shame on themselves, and anyone who listens to them," he says.

Shortly afterward, however, Hap is apparently made aware of a statement of principle raised by the [[Imperial Orcs]] in their own National Assembly. It's not clear who sent the messenger who delivers the statement, and the orc is apparently as perplexed as anyone else. After reading it, he pays two crowns to a [[Navarr]] messenger to deliver an invitation to '''Bloodcrow Knott''' to come and visit him during the Autumn Equinox to talk about it. Hap has no idea if the Sentinel Gate will support such a visit, but is interested to find out. He asks that Knott bring some other Imperial Orc priests along, perhaps including '''Bloodcrow Udoo''' who he spoke to briefly at the Summer Solstice. He further requests that if there is a conjunction, '''Sister Meredith''' or '''Aliss Thorn''' should either accompany the orcs, or select one or two Marchers to do so on their behalf, just to make sure everything stays above board. He's confident there'll be no need for shunning or rough music, but best to be on the safe side.

Examination of the Sentinel Gate has identified a conjunction leading to Golden Hoof Farm, Green March, Mournwold at half-past-four in the afternoon on Saturday during the coming summit. It will allow up to seven people to visit the farm for around half an hour - a narrow window to discuss weighty topics.

When Spring comes

2023-09-02T17:04:28Z

RichardRaynor: /* The Attack */ sp

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>
The heavy ball arced across the field, water flying from the leather as it spun. The day had started dry, perfect weather for foot-the-ball, but an hour before kick-off rain clouds, thick as clotted cream had turned up. By the time the two teams were ready, it was raining cats and dogs. As the match wore on the field was churned to ankle deep mud. Now with twenty minutes left to play the game had descended into a contest of endurance more than skill.

That suited Wayford Wanderer's star player just fine. He was a beater by profession, well used to walking the hills in any weather. A little bit o' rain and mud was not going to put Jim Moor off his stride. There had been heavy betting on Oddmure before the match and their rivals had tak'n an early lead. Two goals behind after fifteen minutes shoulda been the end of it. But the muddier it got the harder Oddmure were finding it to tackle Jim. He'd pulled one goal back already - one more and they'd be level.

What was left of the crowd were screaming. Only the most loyal ones were still watching - but to be fair the rain was so thick now, it was getting hard for anyone to see what was going on. Most of them were Oddmure supporters, but there was one shouting Jim's name.

A great hulking shape loomed out of the dismal rain. Drew Irons, the Oddmure's fullback was a giant of a man, slower than pig slurry, but six-six and fists like anvils. Jim tucked his head down and looked to swerve the fellow. If one of Drew's fists connected, you were not getting back up in a hurry.

It was only at the last minute that he realised that the man in his way stunk like a week-long fishmarket on a hot day. That should have been the clue that it was not who he thought it was... but no-one like Drew Irons much and good cider takes good apples.

Quick as eel the fellow pounced on him, bearing him down into the mud. The ball came free, but instead of letting him go, his opponent reared back and then lunged forwards to bite a chunk out of his shoulder.

"Aggh!" he screamed in pain, feeling a dozen razor sharp fangs sinking into the flesh through the thick leather of his jerkin. Finally, much too late, he realised this was not Drew Irons, nor any of the Oddmure regulars. At first he thought the little bastards were fielding a bloody ringer, but the murderous look in the creature's eyes quickly cured him of that notion. The thing's face was a mass of murky grey scales, with two great big black eyes bulging out of his skull and a mouth full of pike's teeth. Quite a few of the Oddmure lot were fendwellers, but this one didn't look like any bogfisher Jim had ever seen.

They wrestled in the mud rolling over and over, but the thing was as strong as an ox, and within seconds Jim could feel a pair of cold clammy hands wrap themselves round his neck and begin to choke the life out of him. He struggled desperately, but the monster was just too strong. He flailed around wildly, as he clawed for his last breath. Somewhere he could hear the crowd screaming, but it was all going dark.

Then he felt something rough and hard under his right hand, bigger than a goose egg but small enough to grasp. He grabbed it and with his last breath, slammed the rock into the side of the monster's head with all the force he could muster. The creature roared and reared back, the grip on his throat gone for just long enough to gasp a mouthful of air. He pulled back and swung the rock a second time, striking the creature full in the face so that one of the bulging eyes burst like a bag of wet sick.

The creature roared and tried to pull away, but Jim grabbed at the thing and rolled over so that he was on top. "You're not going anywhere, you fishy little bastard" he spat and he slammed the rock down over and over until the thing lay still.

Clambering to his feet he looked at the carnage around him. The field was panic-stricken, people screaming and running everywhere, creatures running after them like wolves after a flock. At least three of his team mates were down, with sharp toothed monsters tearing into their bodies.

For a brief second he contemplated running. But there was no way he was getting away, so he started marching straight towards the nearest one. If he was going down, then so be it. These bog-eared bastards wouldn't take him without a fight...</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=When Saturday Comes.jpg|align=left|caption=Pride in small things, Loyalty to great ones.|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
Thanks to the [[To the last syllable|soldiers of Cold Sun]], the entire Empire has been in a state of turmoil. Yet some nations have more than their fair share of disruption and chaos. The Marches is one such nation. While [[fortification|fortifications]] and armies [[Army_orders#Billet|billeted]] in [[Upwold]] and [[Mitwold]] have helped deal with the invading heralds of the Day realm, it sometimes seems as if the people of the Marches are their own worst enemies. In Mitwold, the attack from the Day realm is complicated by savage heralds of [[Siakha|the Maelstrom]], although the outcome of these attacks is entirely unexpected. In [[Bregasland]], the lingering impact of Mathilda Fisher's attempt to establish an independent nation between [[Jotun]] and Empire are still being felt. In the [[Mournwold|Mourn]] the matter of the [[Mournwold Orcs]] comes to a head - less violent and disruptive than anarchic entities and simmering grudges but with much further reaching implications, perhaps. At least Upwold is quiet; [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] and [[Navarr]] soldiers rubbing shoulders with human Marchers and Mournwold orcs and the occasional Free Folk straggler, all working together to tend the harvest under the Summer Sun. In between fighting off the emissaries of Cold sun, of course.

==Stormy Monday (Mitwold)==
{{SOP|statement=Hue and cry! Marchers be vigilant! Siakha heralds are present in Marcher lands and have started hunting Mitwolders. The Marcher Assembly calls for priests to prepare. Anoint your fellows. Consecrate your spaces. Hallow your weapons. Hue and cry! Hue and cry!|by=Friar Jonathan Piper|vote=Greater Majority 174-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
<div style="float: right; max-width: 500px; margin-right: 10px; clear: right;">
<quote by=Tancred of Meade>Drakes, we have campaigned hard this year against the Jotun, now we turn for home. We will help with the harvest and billet with our families, but stay alert! For Foes hunt abroad in our land.</quote></div>
Folks grumbled a little when Tancred of Meade ordered the [[Drakes]] to [[Army_orders#Billet|billet]] in [[Mitwold]]. Of course it's great to have a little extra help with the fields, people love the Drakes, but shouldn't they be off in Tromsa with the other armies hunting down Mathilda Fisher? The orders come down that everyone is to stay alert because an attack is expected, but there are more than a few eyebrows raised. Where is this attack coming from? The [[Jotun]] are bloody miles away... The warning by '''Friar Jonathan Piper''' provides an explanation, but people struggle to appreciate the scale of the threat. There's no sign of this Siakha and surely the heroes at Anvil can deal with a dozen heralds?

Those grumbles come to an abrupt end when the forces of the Cold Sun attack. In reality Forte Fidelis would probably have been enough to ensure that Cold Sun is unable to get a toehold in the territory, but it doesn't hurt one bit to have the Drakes there watching every farm for any sign of trouble. They quickly deal with the incipient threat. More than one tankard of ale is raised in thanks to the general for putting Marchers first for a bloody change. Everyone is relieved that the danger has been averted.

And that's when the sharks come...

===The Attack===
* '''The Drakes have taken 30 casualties and cannot resupply'''
* '''The army has managed to protect almost everyone, but the Wayford Wanderers are no more'''
The first sign of '''real''' trouble is when the foot-the-ball match between the Wayford Wanderers and the Oddmure Allfriars is attacked by a pack of hungry sharks. Not sharks precisely, these monsters have a human-ish body topped with a fish-like head with a mouth full of razor sharp fangs. They come out of the Eastmere, during a heavy storm, and attack everyone at the match, apparently intent on consuming everyone present. A bloody battle ensues - most of the sharks are dead or fled by the time the fighting is done, but there are only a handful of survivors from those participating and watching the match. The Allfriars managed to flee the worst of it, but Jim Moor, the Wanderers' captain, and his team mates go into the good earth. By the time it's all done, the Wayford Wanderers have played their last match and are no more.

There are more attacks in the weeks that follow, scores of them the length and breadth of Mitwold. They are usually presaged by heavy storms that seem to blow up out of nowhere. There is no rhyme or rhythm to the attacks. No strategy that anyone can perceive. Just wild abandon, murderous rage and an apparently insatiable desire to consume every living thing in Mitwold. Not just lives are threatened: the creatures take delight in firing farmsteads and salting the earth in fields, farms and gardens.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Shark mouths.jpg|align=right|caption=Siakha's heralds are invariably savage killers.|width=500}}</div>
It is hard to conceive how badly Mitwold might have suffered... were it not for the presence of the Drakes. Everywhere the sharks show up, Tancred's soldiers are ready for them. Wild savagery may be terrifying for a helpless friar or a defenceless landskeeper, but it's no match at all for a line of bills and stout brigs. Scores of the shark monsters are literally gutted like fish, in running skirmishes the length and breadth of Mitwold. From the Meadows to Oddmure to the Golden Downs, wherever the monsters attack.... Tancred's forces are ready and waiting for them.

They don't get off scot free of course. The best part of thirty lives are lost to the attack and any hope of a quiet season of resupplying in Mitwold are lost. But a hundred lives are saved for every one that is lost. Tancred's prudent foresight and planning has saved Mitwold from an unimaginable fate. By the end of the season, the Drakes are struggling to keep order in the ranks, because every time one of them goes to a tavern or an inn, there are a dozen people trying to buy them a drink.

The view of most folk in Mitwold is that Jim Moor might not be on the pitch anymore, but it's still Marchers 1, Sharks 0 at full time.

===The Aftermath===
* '''In recognition of their strength, the Maelstrom offers a boon to the Drakes'''
* '''Accepting the Maelstrom's offer is almost certainly illegal while Siakha is under enmity'''
If there was ever any real doubt who is behind the attack on Mitwold, then it is largely dispelled by the arrival of a messenger as the season draws to a close. A ragged orc arrives onboard a merchant ship in [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]]. They are dressed in the colours of the [[Grendel]] but claim to serve the [[Siakha|Maelstrom]] rather than the Salt Lords' Council. They ask to parlay with a representative of the land's defenders. There is some reluctance to accept the parlay, but technically the Empire are still at peace with the Grendel and so eventually they are shown into the presence of a representative of the Drakes.

Once there the orc confirms that the attacks on Mitwold represent the will of the Maelstrom. He claims that the Maelstrom has taken what was offered - no more and no less. But the Marchers have proved they are a match for the ''Mother-of-Wrecks'' and thus she has decided to grant them the boon the Empire requested.

Once - and once only - the general of the Drakes may invoke her aid by issuing orders to their army calling on the ''Empress of Sharks'' to join them in battle that season. If that happens, then Siakha will send their heralds to prey on the weak, the wounded, and the bloodied on both sides. There will be more deaths in every army; the Maelstrom does not play favourites. If that happens then the savage, brutal cruelty will also terrify the weak-willed - those armies on either side that lack the strength of will to survive will break.

If the boon is invoked, all casualties taken by armies in the same territory with the Drakes (and the Drakes themselves) will increase by a tenth. ''Any'' army in the same territory that falls below a military strength of 1,500 (or 2,250 for a Large army) will break. The presence of Siakha's blessing is impossible to conceal and is always obvious to all other armies in the same territory. Invoking the Empress of Sharks [[curse|curses]] a territory so that all participants in battle are pushed towards fury and bloodshed. Soldiers fight with ruthless zeal, butchering any enemy they get an opportunity to kill. Casualties of all forces are increased as soldiers seek out opportunities to punish the enemy. Every opportunity is taken to maximise the suffering of the enemy, those who are captured or surrender find themselves brutally executed and summary justice is meted out to any civilian who acts to support the enemy.

Despite the use of various different sobriquets, it is painfully clear that the "Maelstrom" is simply Siakha, an eternal that is very definitely [[Alignment#Enmity|under enmity]]. Trading or dealing with an eternal under enmity is illegal and will be investigated as treason. That means it is illegal to use the boon. Not can the Conclave cannot endorse the use of it - the only thing they could do is lift the enmity on Siakha - which would make the Empire vulnerable to further attacks from the eternal. If this "boon" had a physical form - if it was an item that someone could hold then Imperial law instructs the militia to confiscate and destroy the item. But there is nothing to seize here - and no possibility that Tancred can be accused of breaking the law simply because this promise has been made. It would only be a crime if they (or their successor) chose to invoke this boon while Siakha is under enmity.

Of course that assumes anyone in the Marches has the ''slightest'' interest in the accepting the "reward" of an eternal that has just spent three months trying to slaughter every living being in Mitwold.

'''OOC Note:''' There is no time-limit on this boon but it can be invoked once ''ever''. It must be absolutely clear from the general's orders that the boon is being invoked otherwise nothing will happen.

===A Passing Grade===
* '''Mitwold fleets that raided the Jotun coasts return with double the returns they were expecting'''
* '''Marcher fleets that are enchanted with Blood and Salt this downtime will receive an additional four additional measures of Tempest Jade'''
Not everyone in Mitwold suffers in the attacks taking place in the territory this season. Those Marcher [[fleet|fleets]] that spend the months far away from home and only return at the end of the season are broadly oblivious to what is going on... But not it seems, too far to be affected. When the first Meade ship returns from [[Fleet#Raid_Kalsea.27s_coastline|raiding along the Gullet Shore]] their holds groan ''double'' the returns they were expecting. They speak of sharks in the Gullet, and of peculiar assistance in finding rich Jotun targets to attack. Captains have strange tales of assistance from powerful shark-like creatures that shadowed their vessels the whole time, waiting for any opportunity to attack their enemies. Some were led to where damaged ships waited, lilting in the water. Others find their vessel steered by chaotic winds towards the most vulnerable Jotun settlements, or report a strange bird with a bloodied beak that led them to the easy pickings on a Jotun caravan too close to the waters edge. The Landskeepers make a careful investigation of the phenomena. There is no sign of dubious [[enchantment|enchantments]] on the vessels themselves. There is some boon at work - some powerful [[Spring magic]] - but there is no evidence at all that it is any part of the captain's doing.

At the same time the ragged Grendel is meeting with the Drakes, an even more peculiar emissary visits ''Jarvey "Strongoar" Oddsboy'', the steward of the small Marcher household who oversees Steward's Landing. A massive mad-eyed "orc", skin marked with contrasting piebald patches of black and white, with a mouthful of pointed teeth apparently dragged herself out of the waters of the Gullet and sought out the Marcher steward with a message from ''Blood-in-the-Water''. The creature - it becomes increasingly clear that they are no kind of orc - has been charged to deliver a message to the "soft, meaty southern folks". Their strength has been noticed and ''Blood-in-the-Water'' recognises it and offers boons to the saltfolk and soilfolk alike. It takes a little while to understand precisely what is being offered but once the details are untangled, the creature departs. Strongoar immediately sets about sharing what he has learned.

"''Blood-in-the-Water''" is clearly another name for Siakha. The eternal sees the Drakes as indistinguishable from the people of the Marches. She offers a boon during the Autumn Equinox. Any [[coven]] or [[magician]] from the Marches performing [[Blood and Salt]] or [[Merciless Wrath of the Reaver]] on Marcher targets can draw on the boon. The targets must be cut - enough to inflict a wound (that is, a cut inflicting at least a hit of damage) - and blood allowed to flow. The contributors must invoke Siakha by one of her common names and accept her boon. If this is done, then the ritual will be empowered.('''OOC Note:''' The ritualists will need to make sure the referee knows they are invoking the boon so it can be recorded alongside the ritual effect).
* ''Blood and Salt'' will provide two additional ingots of tempest jade to anyone taking the [[Fleet#Take_Independent_Action|privateering]] action, or ''four'' additional ingots if they participate in the [[Fleet#Raid_Kalsea.27s_coastline|Raid Kalsea's coastline]] adventure.
* Merciless Wrath of the Reaver will provide two additional ingots of tempest jade if they undertake [[Military_unit#Take_Independent_Action|independent action]], but unlike the normal effect of the ritual the target [[military unit]] will ''also'' gain the benefits of the ritual if they [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support]] a Marcher army.
* In both cases the roleplaying effects of the ritual are heightened; rather than fading after ten minutes they persists for as long as the enchantment lasts.
*If one of the two rituals is made [[Ilium#Using_ilium_in_rituals|permanent with ilium]] both the heightened effects and the roleplaying effect are made permanent.
* The effect on the fleet or military unit are also heightened; your crew or soldiers will be noticeably bloodthirsty, violent, and keen to engage in brutal combat even when guarding a caravan or patrolling a region. You should consider including elements of this in any story you make about what you and your personal resource do during downtime.
The obvious problem with this boon is that it comes from an eternal under [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]]. It is a crime to invoke this boon, and anyone caught doing so will likely face prosecution, so anyone planning to do so would need to avoid being caught by the militia. The [[Detect_magic#Discern_Enchantment|discern enchantment]] effect of [[detect magic]] will not reveal an enchantment on a personal resource. However, [[Bright Lantern of Ophis]] cast on a character whose resource has been enchanted in this way ''will'' reveal that they have been used as the conduit for a ritual empowered by a Spring eternal provided the magician specifically asks the referee.
{{SOP|statement=The Marcher assembly recognises the service of the folk of House Greywater in support of the Strong Reeds in Bregasland as equivalent to two years service in a Marcher army, entitling them to a parcel of Bregas land, as any others who serve would receive.|by=Friar Rosemary Stamp|vote=Greater Majority 176-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
==War Requiem (Bregasland)==
The defenders of Bregasland [[To_the_last_syllable#In_the_Marches|draw on the power]] of [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen|magical wards]] to help protect the scattered households from Cold Sun. While the invaders are a threat, they are a straightforward one that can be resolved with martial might.

If only all the problems in Bregasland in the wake of its liberation from the Fishers could be settled so easily! As it is, there is a swirling stew of grudges, old rivalries, jealousy, and anger bubbling away in the fens, and it is dangerously close to coming to the boil. The rejection of the Greywater's request coupled with the offers of forgiveness extended to those households who were turned against the Empire has left the territory in a febrile state. The magistrates and militia are doing everything they can to maintain order at present, but the situation demands urgent action.
===House Greywater===
{{WingedMessenger|address=With the Greywaters mostly returned to their holdings, it should be possible to send a [[Call Winged Messenger|Winged Messenger]] to ''Steward Margery Greywater'' at ''Greywater Farm, North Fens, Bregasland'' although what sort of reception such a message would receive is hard to predict.}}
* '''House Greywater are unhappy with the response of the Synod and Senate'''
When the Jotun and their self-styled Steward were in Bregasland, [[The_Marches_groups#House_Greywater|House Greywater]] were front-and-centre in the resistance. They worked with the [[Strong Reeds]] to stymie the orcs and the Fishers at every turn. The Marcher Assembly [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_166|recognised their Loyalty, Courage, and Vigilance]], and urged their neighbours to put the House's bad reputation behind them. Before the Summer Solstice, ''Margery Greywater'' [[Welly_boots#The_Answer_Lies_In_The_Soil|suggested]] that her if the Assembly really wanted to reward them, the household could could get good use out of the damaged [[The_Marches_economic_interests#The_Imperial_Breadbasket|Bregasland breadbasket buildings]]. They would store food and seed in the silos, and charge other farmers to keep their excess supplies in them. This would provide a good living for House Greywater, and secure their [[Prosperity]]. But it would mean no more Breadbasket in Bregasland, which would have obvious downsides. There was no sign the Marcher senators are interested in giving the Greywaters what they have asked for - or anything else in fact. At the Summer Solstice, the [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] (working through a [[proxy]]) stumped up the money to restore the Bregasland granaries and seed stores, and the Greywaters are smart enough to know that means their request isn't going to be fulfilled.

'''Friar Rosemary Stamp''' suggested that their "service" to Bregasland was equivalent to the service any Marcher might give if they fought alongside an army; that they could be given a parcel of farmland as a reward. Leaving aside the fact that no national assembly can change how the reward of land secured in the Imperial Constitution can be applied, the suggestion is of no benefit to House Greywater. Margery Greywater publicly points out that her Household already ''has'' farmland - much of it secured by exactly the kind of service Friar Rosemary suggests. They have as much land as they can farm already, more won't help them one iota. What she ''wanted'' was actual a reward for the Loyalty of the Greywaters, for their Courage, and Vigilance, during the occupation of Bregasland. It's clear she's not happy with the Assembly response, nor that the Senator for Bregasland considered it more important to establish a [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Create_title_of_Speaker_of_the_Magpies|sodality of artefact hunters]] than offer any kind of actual, measurable reward to her household.

It's probably not intentional, but the outcome has reinforced the prejudices of the Greywater's detractors. House Brawness in particular, known enemies of the Greywaters, are at the forefront of those suggesting that perhaps their contribution to the fight against the Jotun was not as great as they had claimed after all. Other households who have had problems with the Greywaters in the past agree; surely the Strong Reeds did the real work, and the Greywaters have overplayed how much support they gave them? Maybe they're just trying to poach some of the gratitude due General Amberlain and the brave soldiers of the 'Reeds. Perhaps the National Assembly was too hasty in suggesting that their virtues should be recognised in the first place. Maybe their vaunted "deep knowledge of the marshes" comes from the amount of sneaking around they do when they're looking to get rich off other peoples' hard work. And so on.

And a few Bregas mutter darkly that this apparent snubbing of House Greywater is ''exactly'' the kind of thing old Bushell Sykes was talking about. That the Empire, and the well-dressed Marchers who visit [[Anvil]] four times a year, talk a good game but once push comes to shove discard anyone who is no longer immediately useful to them. "Pride in small things, loyalty to great ones indeed," they say, and spit.

===Collaboration===
* '''Three significant households stand accused of collaboration with Mathilda Fisher'''
Mathilda Fisher may have come with Jotun support, but she made a song and dance of trying to turn Bregasland into an independent nation rather than a vassal of the orcs. She made [[False_kings#Fisher.27s_Voice|any number of claims]] about her plans, and about the Empire, and some people listened to her words. In the last few months of her tenure at Fisher's Rock, she went so far as to set up a ''Council of Bregas'' - inviting Stewards from many of the households in the territory to send representatives with whom "she planned to share power." Allegedly Bushel Sykes suggested the idea to her as a way to demonstrate Loyalty to the people who all too often viewed her and her family as foreign conquerors. It was not a great success, and seems to have been purely advisory, but now that Bregasland is back as part of the Marches, its legacy is one of suspicion.

It's no secret in Bregasland that some households were a little more... enthusiastic... about the presence of the Fishers than others. Mathilda did her best to woo any household that would support her reign, or listen to her wild claims and criticisms of the Empire. The Strong Reeds, the Greywaters, and the Marcher Assembly did their best to discourage people from paying too much attention to her obvious lies, but the Marchers are a practical and Ambitious people. Sometimes accommodations have to be made, if you don't want to give up your land. Few people are questioning those who kept their heads down in pursuit of a quiet life. Unfortunately, some people maybe went a way beyond that. Three households in particular are seeing a lot of angry glances in their direction now that the water is going down a little and the mud needs clearing.
====House Brawness of the North Fens====
Among some of the loudest voices questioning House Greywater's actual contributions to resisting the Jotun is House Brawness. Arguably they might be wiser to hold their tongues right now. During the occupation, they initially presented themselves as "neutral" with regards to the Fishers and the Jotun, and urged their neighbours to do the same. This didn't stop them being implicated in an [[Laid_low#Through_the_moonlight_.28Conjunction.29|attack against]] House Greywater's farms while they were busy fighting the Fishers. The orcs involved were stopped, and no conclusive evidence as to whether House Brawness were actively collaborating with them was recovered. There were claims at the time, reiterated now Bregalsand is free, that ''Steward Aldith Brawness'' and her yeomen allowed the Jotun to rest and recuperate in their lands, and that they received payment from the Fishers for their cooperation. Aldith herself took part in Mathilda's short-lived advisory council. The Brawness are a large household, and several smaller households in the North Fens looked to them for guidance. There are claims that that guidance was to work with the Jotun and the Fishers.
====The Droverbill Clan of Grey Fens====
The Droverbills of the south-eastern [[Bregasland#Grey Fens|Grey Fens]] refer to themselves variously as a "clan" or "family" and it's a fair descriptor. The household encourages strong blood-ties, and nobody who isn't a Droverbill by birth or marriage has ever done well in dealings with them. They're known to be fairly Ambitious as well, always needling away at neighbouring farms, trying to persuade their fellow yeomen to sell up or join the family. The household is also notable because it's widely believed to have connections with the [[Feni]] of the deep marshes. They don't deny they did well during the occupation; they claim it was money earned by selling the produce of their lands. The accusations that they were paid by Mathilda Fisher to use their influence with the Feni families to keep them from causing trouble for the Jotun. The Greywaters claim they turned down repeated requests for assistance against the invaders, claiming they weren't prepared to risk reprisals from the orcs. ''Steward Tress Droverbull'' sent her eldest daughter ''Joan'' to serve on the "Council of Bregas", and it's easy to see why folk in southern and eastern Bregasland are unhappy with the Droverbills.
====The Clakes of Beandown====
In [[Bregasland#The_Rushes|the Rushes]], not far from Sallow, the Clakes of Beandown served on Fisher's council and were gifted lands and animals taken from other households in the region. Their neighbours say that these gifts were given to them in return for information provided about households that were helping the Greywaters and the 'Reeds, or in some cases just ''talking'' about doing so, or just criticising the Fishers in general. ''Sammy Clake'', steward of the house, has denied this, and returned some of the land, but argues that they worked hard in return for the goats the Jotun gave them - although he's remarkably reticent about explaining what that work was. Shortly after the Summer Solstice, three of the neighbouring households banded together to play the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Rough_music|rough music]] for the Clakes. Shortly before the Autumn Equinox there is a more serious disturbance when a large group of yeomen attempted to take back goats they claimed were stolen from them, and found the Clakes waiting for them. Three people died in the resulting fracas, and the magistrates arrested two members of House Hiswen and Sammy Clake's elder brother Rory for their parts in these deaths.

===Taking Action===
* '''The Magistrates have asked the Imperial Senate to provide a clear statement to help quieten tensions in Bregasland'''
* '''Neither the Imperial Synod nor the Silent Bell can provide any additional help to resolve this situation'''
* '''Every available option has significant drawbacks'''

There has been [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_160|some talk]] at Anvil that the Bregas should show "benevolence" to those "''who were turned away from the Empire by Bushel Sykes''". While the words of '''Edmund of Barrowby''' came within a hair's breadth of a [[greater majority]], the Assembly was clearly divided on where the problem lay. But even if they had been supported with a greater majority, it's not clear they would have made that much difference. There is a strong argument to be made that it wasn't Bushel Sykes that turned the Brawness, the Droverbills, the Cleeks, or any of the other larger households that ultimately supported Mathilda Fisher. They were turned, claim many of those who did ''not'' prosper under the Fishers, by their own Ambition and greed. All Bushel Sykes did was urge folk to put their Loyalty to Bregasland ahead of Loyalty to the Marches or the Empire.

Despite the calls for calm many in Bregasland are inclined to grudges, and as the business with the Clakes shows they're not afraid to act on them. Margery Greywater has been adding fuel to the fire pointing out that those who sided with the Fishers got fat purses full of thrones while those who opposed them got nowt but fair words. While three households are the target of most of the ire, there's a growing tide of resentment between people who think they suffered more than their neighbours did under the Jotun yoke, or who believe the folk from three farms over of having been sympathetic to the Fishers. There's even a few people who didn't pay a lot of attention to Bushel Sykes while he was alive, but who are now wondering if maybe he had a point.

The [[Silent Bell (Sodality)|Silent Bell]] can't help - there is nothing they can discover that isn't widely known already. Their speciality is in finding threats to the Empire, with the Jotun gone and Bushel Sykes dead, there are no immediate threats. There's no suggestion that anyone is making any attempt to work with the Jotun or the Fishers now that they're gone. Likewise the Imperial Synod cannot calm this situation with statements or mandates, attitudes have hardened too much for people to be talked round now. A statement to get people fired up would be put a spark to the fire, but no-one is any mood to listen to an attmept to reduce the tensions at the moment.

The situation is becoming intolerable and the magistrates have asked the Imperial Senate to provide a statement, it won't carry legal standing, but it will led people know where they stand. That won't solve the bickering, but if the Senate act, it will be enough to stop a descent into violence - at least for now. As a result, the Civil Service have only been able to identify three possible courses of action that the [[Imperial Senate]] could take, each of which comes with very significant drawbacks.

<div style="float: right; max-width:400px; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Marcher Proverb">Nothing dries faster than a tear.</quote></div>
====Draw A Line====
* '''The Senate could inform the Bregas that the magistrates have done all that can be done to investigate this matter and that they now intend to draw a line under the sorry affair'''
* '''The Greywaters and everyone who opposed to Jotun will be furious that those who collaborated have gone unpunished'''

Guided by the magistrates, the militia have not been tardy in investigating matters in Bregasland. Chief Magistrate Karkovitch is eager to identify anyone who might have committed treason or other crimes during the occupation and see that due punishment follows. Sadly they have been stymied at every turn - there are wild accusations flying everywhere, but precious little proof. Every household that sat down and talked with Mathilda Fisher is close-mouthed and uncooperative - they deny everything they can. Nobody can give evidence against another house without incriminating themselves. A few unpopular individuals are identified and ratted out, to face trial, but it's painfully clear that the ringleaders of any collaboration with the Jotun are currently escaping justice.

Regrettably therefore, Karkovitch and his magistrates are faced with the unavoidable truth that unless they take extraordinary measures they are not going to find the proof they need to pass judgement on those who are guilty. What information they have amounts to gossip with no little evidentiary basis beyond hearsay and rumours. That summary (presented above) presents an unedifying picture, but it does not amount to sufficient to try anyone of importance for treason. Of course, they will always be open to new evidence, but as things stand, Karkovitch has asked the Speaker to inform the Senate that there is nothing further he can do and that the best thing now would be for the Senate to use a motion to let the Bregas now that the magistrates have done everything they can and that the Senate intends to draw a line under the matter and take no further action.

Such an approach also appears to be broadly in line with what the Marcher assembly wants. The [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_160|statement of principle by Edmund of Barrowby]] seems to suggest that it is passed time for everyone in Bregasland to draw a line under this whole sorry mess. The Imperial Senate could adopt that as their official position - and if they explicitly use the phrase "draw a line" under this issue, then people in Bregasland will at least know where they stand.

This approach will obviously appeal to those households and their allies who are currently facing hostility of their neighbours. The problem is that it will infuriate House Greywater and everyone like them who refused to collaborate. The Greywaters gave everything to fight the Fishers. They left their lands to take up the fight, their homes were attacked and damaged, and they risked death at every turn while the Brawness and their allies profited by siding with the Fishers. What was the point in fighting for the Empire, they will bitterly ask, pointing out that they would have been better off siding with the Jotun. They won't take action now, the Senate motion will see to that, but ''it will store up trouble for years to come''.

<div style="float: right; max-width:400px; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Marcher Proverb">Sow, tend and reap; fight, toil and weep.</quote></div>

====Send In the Magistrates====
* '''The Senate could instruct the magistrates to go into Bregasland in force'''
* '''Rooting out the traitors will cause massive upheaval in the territory will incur costs of 25 thrones and cause widespread disruption in the short term'''
* '''The allies of everyone who is punished will grow more hostile to the Empire'''

In the past, when faced with the most dangerous recidivist elements, the Imperial Senate has given the magistrates the approval to use an overwhelming show of force to get results. Karkovitch has confirmed that that would be possible here, he is prepared to send hundreds of militia into Bregasland and turn over every household looking for evidence. Such an approach would be invasive, and divisive, it would create a great deal of hostility, albeit more from those who had something to hide. However, based on past experiences, Karkovitch believes it would work, it would give the magistrates the opportunity to find the evidence they need to prosecute those genuinely guilty of treason.

Legally, Karkovitch has the power to proceed, but rather than doing so, he is asking for the Senate to approve this course of action, because the costs are not inconsequential. Such approval will means that more of the resulting anger is directed at the Senate and less at Karkovitch's people. And there will be significant anger - top-to-bottom searches of every household property, every farmstead, every barn, will cause widespread disruption in the lives of ordinary Bregas. The prognosticators calculate that such disruption would cost 25 Thrones in the coming season, paying for losses and damages. More significantly, the upheaval would mean every [[Resource#Personal Resource|personal resource]] in the territory take a -1 penalty to production following the event where the motion was passed (including fleets and military units).

As long as the motion backing the raids are raised by the Senator for Bregasland most of the Bregas would cooperate (although they would grumble about it). If a different Marcher senator raises the motion the grumbling would be louder; if a non-Marcher senator raised it then there might be open resistance to and opposition to the work of the Magistrates. Regardless of who does the dirty work, the nature of any investigation like this is that it will reap a harvest of bad feeling among everyone who counts one of the traitors as a friend. The punishment of the magistrates will fall squarely on the shoulders of the guilty, no-one who is innocent will be harmed. But there is a wide river between "guilty of treason" and "sympathetic to the Empire". Everyone whose sympathies lie with any of those who end up being executed will inevitably feel their friends were hard done by. They won't be in any position to do anything about it right now - because everyone who might have openly opposed Imperial rule in Bregasland will be dead - but ''it will store up trouble for years to come''.

<div style="float: right; max-width:400px; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Marcher Proverb"> There's two ways to bury a hatchet.</quote></div>

====Let It Run Its Course====
* '''Karkovitch strongly advises the Senate not to leave the matter to the Bregas to resolve themselves'''
* '''If that happens then Bregasland will explode into violence, as people take matters into their own hands to settle the scores'''
* '''The Greywaters will extract their revenge, but the scars will harden into deep grudges for many years'''

If the Imperial Senate does not act, and nothing else is done, then the civil service predict that Bregas will take matters into their own hands. The simmering violence will explode and the households that supported the Empire will take bloody retribution from those who chose the other side. The violence won't last long - it will be a hot fire that burns out quickly. But Bregasland will face a season of chaos and carnage as people use this opportunity to settle old scores. The militia will do everything they can to maintain order, but as the situation with the Clakes shows, things can get out of hand very quickly. Imperial commissions in the territory will definitely be at risk unless an army is stationed in Bregasland to protect structures like the recently repaired Breadbasket.

Imperial prognosticators calculate that the Greywaters and their allies will likely come out on top, not least because they will probably be the instigators of much of the violence. Individual members of House Brawness, the Clakes, and the Droverbills might remain, but the households will be gone. Their leaders will face rough music or worse, and their estates will be looted and fired. The wealth they acquired from collaborating with the Fishers will be shared out amongst those Households who remained loyal to the Empire.

This will be a disaster for the rule of law in the Empire, and Karkovitch strongly requests that the Imperial Senate do not take this route. To do would be tacitly accepting that the people of Bregasland are going to take the law into their own hands and go way beyond rough music and shunning. The magistrates will do what they can to stop the violence and to investigate afterwards but they will be powerless to stop it unless the Imperial Senate acts.

If that happens, then those who likely collaborated would pay the price. The taxation derived from Bregasland would be permanently impacted as a result of the lost households but it would ensure there was no possibility of anyone collaborating with Mathilda Fisher or her kin should they return in the short term. However ''it will store up trouble for years to come'' as those on losing side who survive will nurse bitter grudges against their enemies, in the Marches and the Empire.

===The Death of Bushel Sykes===
* '''Poacher and instigator Bushel Sykes has been killed'''
* '''Accusations of murder have been made naming several prominent Imperial citizens'''
No discussion of collaboration in Bregasland would be complete without a mention of ''Bushel Sykes''. An unrepentant poacher, the man openly threw his lot in with Mathilda Fisher and her household. He helped the Jotun widen Odd's Way, and used stolen [[liao]] to create [[aura|auras]] of [[Loyalty]] supporting the Fishers. There were concerns that he could [[Chasing_you_home#Objective:_Deal_with_Bushel_Sykes|continue to spread rebellion]] even after the Fishers themselves were driven out. He claimed to be motivated more by a dislike of the Empire than any affection for the self-styled Steward and her family. In the end though he turned up in Ottery, [[Welly_boots#Pride_In_Small_Things_.28Conjunction.29|making no attempt to hide]]. And then he turned up dead.

Most people would be unsurprised that a man as cantankerous as 'Shel Sykes met a bad end, but there is a significant problem. According to a witness, ''Harry Brewer'', the landlord of the ''Wet Dog'' tavern, Sykes was murdered by "folk from [[Anvil]]". Harry raised a [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Hue_and_cry|hue and cry]], but Sykes' killers evaded justice; it's believed they were visiting Ottery through the [[Sentinel Gate]] and fled to [[Anvil]] after the deed was done. Harry identified two of the killers - none other than '''Amberlain P. Black''' herself, the [[general]] of the Strong Reeds, and her fellow general [[Highguard|Highborn]] '''General Asenath''' of the [[Granite Pillar]]. They were accompanied by three others including a Freeborn, a Marcher priest, and another Marcher. Harry Brewer has provided sworn testimony that they killed Sykes in cold blood. The landlord was not privy to the entire conversation, but says that Sykes was killed to prevent him telling folk in Bregasland to cleave to their Loyalty to Bregasland rather than the Empire.

Bushel Sykes was a notorious poacher, and few people actually mourn his passing. He was a collaborator - he supported the Jotun and the Fishers. He was a seditionist - he openly spoke about Bregasland being better off without the Empire. At the same time, he was a Marcher citizen, and there's no indication he was given anything approaching a trial. On returning to Anvil, the citizens involved plead guilty and were tried by the magistrates; details of the outcome are given in the court reports.

In life, Sykes was not well-liked. Now that he's dead, even the few friends he had are being very careful who they talk to about it. It's possible the man himself is likely to be forgotten, but the manner of his death unfortunately adds credence to his claims that the Empire, and "the fine people who go to Anvil" don't actually care about Bregasland, don't respect its people, and don't care what they think or what they want, and will simply crush them if they dare to step out of line. It remains to be seen what impact this poacher's legacy will have on the people of the Marches.
{{SOP|statement=The prosperous are not selfish and the proud proclaim their virtue by actions not words. Let every Marcher yeoman and steward welcome to the orcs of the Mournwold, and treat them as they would any other young Marcher seeking hard work and fair pay. We send Aliss Thorn with 75 doses of liao to ensure everyone knows that it is our ambition to make one people out of two, and a job that never gets started never gets finished.|by=Aliss Thorn|vote=Greater Majority 200-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
{{SOP|statement=The Mourne orcs are our neighbours. At the request of Hap the Soft, this assembly urges Marchers to offer shelter and sanctuary to the Mourne orcs, should the need arise.|by=Sister Meredith|vote=Greater Majority 190-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}

==The Field (Mournwold Orcs)==
* '''Orcs have travelled from Mournwold to all the Marcher territories, and been assured of a welcome by the National Assembly'''
* '''Orcs and humans worked together to repel the attacks of Cold Sun'''
* '''The Egregore has reported that Mournwold Orcs could join the nation as Marchers'''
It could have been better timed, obviously, but the last three months has seen an influx of young people from Mournwold into the other three Marcher territories. During the Summer Solstice, the Marcher National Assembly [[Sense_and_sensibility#A_Busy_Time_of_Year|gave assurances]] to the [[Mournwold Orcs]] that means that a significant portion of these young folk are [[orc|orcs]] for the first time ever. Coupled with the orc labourers working alongside their human neighbours on the Black Canal, and the handful of orcish merchants trading with their peers to the north, this now means that most Marchers have met or know someone who has met one of the Mournwold orcs. A lot of them have worked alongside them, eaten and drunk with them, played foot-the-ball with and against them. Thanks in part to the urging of '''Sister Meredith''', they've also seen them work to keep people alive in the face of Cold Sun's attacks, healing, carrying, bearing messages; they may not fight themselves but they're as likely as any Marcher to play a part when lives are on the line. It's not been entirely idyllic - Aliss Thorn and their fellow priests have had their work cut out for them smoothing over misunderstandings and helping to answer questions from folk who've never travelled far from home. There's still people out there who don't want to see orcs in the Marches, or don't see why they can't all move to [[Skarsind]]. But those people are in the minority. For a very great many Marchers, the question of the Mournwold Orcs is not ''if'' they can join, but ''when''.

As predicted, the mandate, and the visiting orcs, is being seen as a clear communication that the National Assembly is working to bring the Mournwold Orcs into their nation for good or ill. It's perhaps surprising how quickly some people switch from asking "can these orcs even really be Marchers?" to "Let's get our orcs into the Marches by the new year, we can't let the League steal a march on us!" Or perhaps not; this has been a long time coming and with the [[Windfall#|Apulian orcs]] joining [[the League]], it is clear that the old superstitions about whether orcs and humans could belong to the same nation are being upended.

Shortly before the Autumn Equinox, the ''real'' impact of the hard work done by the Marcher Assembly becomes clear. The Marcher [[egregores|egregore]] Jack confirms what some people already suspect: it is possible for Mournwold Orcs to bond to them and become Marchers. They could join tomorrow, if they wanted. This isn't widespread knowledge yet, but with the pig out of the sack, it's a matter of time before every Marcher - human and orc alike - knows it.
===At Odds With The Synod===
* '''The Marcher national assembly could enact a mandate to bring the Mournwold orcs into the nation'''
Just because it can be done, doesn't mean it should be done, of course. People have been patient - perhaps they can be patient for another few months? The issue is that while the Marchers as a nation are prepared to see the former Jotun thralls as their neighbours in spirit as well as in geography, the rest of the Empire might not be. The glaring problem that the Marcher orcs believe that they reincarnate - putting them at odds with the [[Doctrines of the Faith]] - remains. It just isn't, apparently, a concern that would stop the other Marchers accepting them.

There's a saying, older than the Marches, that suggests it is easier to act and deal with the consequences than it is to get everyone agree to what should be done. When the Assembly threw its weight behind the innocuous-seeming encouragement to welcome the young orcs onto Marcher farms, they told their people that they were working to bring the Mournwold Orcs into their nation for good or ill. In spite of whether it might set them at odds with the rest of the Synod, and with the intention to seek a [[change of doctrine]] in the General Assembly.
{{Mandate|mandate=Those orcs who once were thralls of the Jotun are Marchers. They've been patient, and we won't keep them waiting while the rest of the Empire argues about what we know to be true. We send (named priest) with the egregore Jack to welcome them into our nation, and we will look to the paperwork later.|assembly=Marches National Assembly}}
If this mandate - which requires no liao - is enacted then the Marcher assembly makes it clear to their own people, and to the Empire, that the Mournwold Orcs should be Marchers. The job isn't over - doctrine will still need to be changed. The Synod will need to accept that orcs are capable of reincarnating, most likely meaning that the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Human_Destiny|Doctrine of Human Destiny]] and the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Howling_Abyss|Doctrine of the Howling Abyss]] will need to change. It will make the entire issue much more pressing - but you throw water on the roof that's burning as the saying goes. Such precipitous action might be just the push the Synod needs to accept what the Mournwold Orcs and their friends are saying. Or it might plunge everything into a bitter argument, ten times worse than what is going on at the moment. Its hard to say - but consequences are the price of Ambition after all.
===Hap, Graime, and Knott (Conjunction)===
* '''Questioner Graime has been turned away from Golden Hoof Farm and ''shunned'' by the folk there'''
* '''An invitation has been sent out to for Imperial Orcs preachers to visit the orc spiritual leader'''
* '''A conjunction of the Sentinel Gate has been identified to allow seven people to visit ''Golden Hoof Farm, Green March, Mournwold'' at 16:30 on the Saturday during the coming summit'''
{{SOP|statement=The souls of the Mourn orcs are in danger. While the Marchers' efforts to accept the Mourn orcs as their own are praiseworthy, more has to be done. The Mourn orcs are still suffering under the lies of the Jotun, deceived into throwing their souls into the Abyss. The Mourn orcs do not need to lay down the plough to pick up a sword if this is not in their nature - a Legend soaked in rhubarb is as much a Legend as one soaked in blood. However, a Legend not sought is a Legend not to be. To cross the Abyss we get no second chances. We encourage the Marches to throw away the lies of the Jotun instead of the souls of their orc siblings. We encourage the Mourn orcs to listen to their ancestors for guidance and seize their Legend for themselves in this, their - one life.|by=Bloodcrow Knottt|vote=Greater Majority 78-0|when=Summer Solstice 385YE}}
At the same time all this is going on, an Apulian Orc questioner by the name of '''Graime''' turns up at [[Mournwold_spoils_of_war#The_Golden_Hoof|Golden Hoof Farm]] to talk to ''Hap the Soft''. He's apparently there to offer advice to the Mournwold Orcs about how best to navigate the treacherous waters of joining an Imperial nation, and the importance of compromise when it comes to matters of belief. Apparently, the League orc is there at the behest of his peers in the Synod. He is welcomed, a little warily. He spends a little less than an hour talking to Hap, and is then invited to leave. More than that, he is actively [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Shunning|shunned]] by Hap and the folk who live and work on his farm. After Graime has left, Hap makes it clear that folk like that are ''not'' welcome on his farm. "Anyone who'll throw their beliefs into the fire when the weather changes brings shame on themselves, and anyone who listens to them," he says.

Shortly afterward, however, Hap is apparently made aware of a statement of principle raised by the [[Imperial Orcs]] in their own National Assembly. It's not clear who sent the messenger who delivers the statement, and the orc is apparently as perplexed as anyone else. After reading it, he pays two crowns to a [[Navarr]] messenger to deliver an invitation to '''Bloodcrow Knott''' to come and visit him during the Autumn Equinox to talk about it. Hap has no idea if the Sentinel Gate will support such a visit, but is interested to find out. He asks that Knott bring some other Imperial Orc priests along, perhaps including '''Bloodcrow Udoo''' who he spoke to briefly at the Summer Solstice. He further requests that if there is a conjunction, '''Sister Meredith''' or '''Aliss Thorn''' should either accompany the orcs, or select one or two Marchers to do so on their behalf, just to make sure everything stays above board. He's confident there'll be no need for shunning or rough music, but best to be on the safe side.

Examination of the Sentinel Gate has identified a conjunction leading to Golden Hoof Farm, Green March, Mournwold at half-past-four in the afternoon on Saturday during the coming summit. It will allow up to seven people to visit the farm for around half an hour - a narrow window to discuss weighty topics.

Thorn's Mark

2023-08-09T18:25:01Z

RichardRaynor: /* Rules */ copy-paste correction

==Description==
The Thorn's Mark is potentially deadly in the hands of both [[Kallavesi]] and [[Steinr]] warriors. The [[Magic_items#Schema|schema]] was purchased from the eternal [[Estavus]] as part of [[Inkpot_gods#The_Mediators_Bargain|her offer]] to the mediators of Wintermark. Originally known as the ''Eagles Talon'' the spear was renamed by the [[Steinr]] runesmith Derowen Voice of the Forge when she passed the schema to [[Wintermark_Egregore#Sulkavaris|Sulkavaris]] to be added to Runesmith's Law.

==Rules==
{{One-Handed Spears}}
* '''Effect:''' Twice per day you may call STRIKEDOWN with this one-handed spear.
* '''Materials:''' Crafting the Thorn's Mark requires twelve ingots of [[green iron]], eight measures of [[ambergelt]], seven ingots of [[tempest jade]], and three ingots of [[orichalcum]]. It takes one month to make one of these items.
{{Runesmith's Law}}

Silent Bell (Sodality)

2023-08-08T21:03:29Z

RichardRaynor: /* Previous Investigations */ 385 summer

<ic>This page details the Vigilant association; for the magic item see [[Silent Bell]]</ic>
==Overview==
The Silent Bell is an [[Imperial sodality]] made up of citizens dedicated to the cause of [[Vigilance]]. Initially set up in the early years of the reign of [[Emperor Nicovar]], they were intended to serve as an investigative arm of the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Vigilance Assembly]]. Unfortunately, being so closely associated with the Mad Emperor lead to their short-lived order being officially disbanded in 210YE as the dust of Nicovar's rampage started to settle.

The first (and officially, only) preceptor of the Silent Bell, Esther of Sybela, responded to the instruction to disband the order with a polite note to the then [[Cardinal]] of Vigilance that read simply "''be alert to all dangers; within and without.''" Denied official sanction, the Silent Bell continued to operate in the background, occasionally bringing news of potential threats to the Empire to the attention of the Vigilance assembly.

During the reign of Emperor Nicovar, the Silent Bell were allegedly used by the Synod to suppress opposition to the increasingly extreme demands of [[the Throne]]. In the century and a half since, they remained largely in the background but are known to have helped to uncover a number of internal threats to the Empire. At various times they were accused of helping to discredit political and social movements that were threats to entrenched positions within the Empire, rather than existential threats to the empire as a whole. As such the order has had something of a mixed reputation over the years.
==Recent History==
During the reign of [[Empress Britta]], the leadership of the Silent Bell allegedly met with members of the Assembly of the Nine in secret and offered to take a more active role in the Empire. They stressed a new commitment to remain apolitical; to focus on the vigilant defence of the Empire as a whole rather than one political faction or another. At first their involvement in Imperial affairs remained limited, but throughout 380YE, they Silent Bell became significantly more active. Having undergone a clandestine period of recruitment, they began to strengthen their ties with the [[Imperial Synod]].

A resurgence of interest in the [[Paragons_and_exemplars|exemplar]] [[Berechiah]] - never a member of the Silent Bell himself but allegedly a quiet supporter of their mission - the leadership of the order decided to cement those relations officially and [[No_evil_shall_escape_our_sight|emerge from the shadows]]. Particularly in light of the [[Matter of faith|challenges faced by the Synod]] at the time, the leadership wished to be very clear in their relationship with the Assemblies, so that there would be no misunderstanding of the role they were to play or how they were to play it.

The current preceptor of the Silent Bell, '''Malachai of the Silent Bell, in [[Casinea#Casca.E2.80.99s_Doom|Casca's Doom]]''', suggested a way that the Imperial Synod might wield the Silent Bell effectively, but with enough transparency to allay fears of a "secret militia answering only to the cardinals." During the Winter solstice 380YE, the Imperial Synod declared their support for the Silent Bell, and the Council of the Nine issued their first instruction as to where the sodality should turn its gaze. The Highborn Esau executed a mandate in support of the Silent Bell, leading to improved attendance at congregations of priests dedicated to Vigilance across the Empire.
==The Order==
The sodality they represent is small, but committed. Their goal is to gather information about internal threats to the Empire. They operate a loose, but extensive, network of informants throughout the Vigilance sects in the Empire. By drawing on that network, they can potentially track down information about specific threats. They are at their most effective, however, when they operate with a clear focus from the Imperial Synod.

They are not in a position to actually ''deal'' with threats - their members are investigators and informants, not effective combatants, but they can often suggest practical ways to deal with those threats and are adept at identifying opportunities for the Synod to use the Sentinel Gate to act on the information they have provided.
==Ringing the Bell==
Any member of the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]] is empowered to issue a [[statement of principle]] instructing the Silent Bell to pursue information relating to a specific topic. Such a statement of principle must begin with the wording "'''The Council of Nine directs the Silent Bell to investigate...'''". If the statement is supported by the lesser majority of the Council, then the Silent Bell will turn their attentions towards investigating the designated topic. In the event that multiple such statements are issued in a single summit, the Silent Bell will either take instruction from the judgement that achieves the highest margin.

Sometimes a representative of the Sodality might need to speak with the cardinal (or the Throne) who raised the statement, looking for as many details as possible about the threat. Regardless, they will then direct their attentions to finding any leads they can, and make them available to the cardinal at the next summit. In the past this has often taken the form of a verbal or written report, but in past years the order's commitment to transparency, and being seen to serve the Empire as a whole, has often seen them making their findings public rather than restricted them to any one individual.

There was some concern when this method was agreed on that while it openly encourages the faithful to look into a specific topic, it might also potentially provide a warning to the enemies of the Empire. A more secretive method was also proposed, but ultimately declined, in which the Silent Bell answered directly to the [[Cardinal of Vigilance]] rather than the Council of the Nine as a whole. In the event, it became pretty clear that most of the people the Silent Bell were likely to end up investigating remained broadly oblivious to the statements of the Synod.

Malachai, the current preceptor of the Silent Bell is keen to avoid being drawn into the complex political machinations of Anvil as has sometimes happened in the past. The sodality exists to track down and investigate threats to the Empire. While they are not so foolish to imagine that none of those threats are present during the summit, this is not their area of expertise and as such they are determined to ensure that they stay out of Anvil politics. Consequently the one restriction they insist on is that they will only investigate threats whose primary source lies outside Anvil. They are happy to follow those leads wherever they go - but they will not investigate the affairs of an individual or band while they are at Anvil.
<box>'''The capabilities of the Silent Bell'''<br>
The Silent Bell is most effective when gathering information about threats to Imperial citizens. It is also an Imperial sodality. As such, it is only effective when it is working within the borders of the Empire. It has some ability to gather information in places that are not Imperial territories but have a significant Imperial presence - for example, they have some success operating in barbarian territories where the Imperial armies are present, especially if one of those armies contains trained [[Army qualities#Scouting|scouts]] (the Seventh Wave and the Quiet Step are the obvious examples).

They are ineffective at gathering information outside Imperial borders. For example, they are rarely able to make contact with foreigners or barbarians, or infiltrate non-Imperial settlements. However, they can still investigate the influences such things may have closer to home. The Silent Bell will struggle to provide any useful intelligence about a [[Grendel]] Salt Lord, for example, but might still be able to identify someone who has that information within the Empire.

'''OOC Note:''' The Silent Bell are also significantly less effective at investigating PvP scenarios. However, regardless of their limitations, their investigations will tend to turn up ''something'' for the next event, at least tangentially related to the matter they were instructed to investigate.</box>

==Previous Investigations==
<table>
<tr><th>Topic</th><th>Investigation</th><th>Year</th><th>By</th></tr>
<tr><td>King of the Crossroads</td><td>The whereabouts of the Labyrinth spirit, the "King of the Crossroads."</td><td>[[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_205|385YE Summer]]</td><td>Gaelen Embercast</td></tr>
<tr><td>Chaos fruit</td><td>Imperial forests cultivating "Chaos Fruits" and any farms where plants touched by the vallorn are grown </td><td>[[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_185|385YE Spring]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Gaelen Embercast</td></tr>
<tr><td>Blood-on-the-Snow</td><td>The spread of Blood-on-the-Snow cults in Sermersuaq</td><td>[[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_164|384YE Winter]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Gaelen Embercast</td></tr>
<tr><td>Axou Narcotics</td><td>The distribution of Axou narcotics throughout the Empire and their effects on Imperial citizens</td><td>[[384YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement_163|384YE Autumn]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Gaelen Embercast</td></tr>
<tr><td>Confirm Historical Research</td><td>The provenance of the historical research on the Doctrine of Human Destiny</td><td>[[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_153|384YE Summer]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Skywise Tulva</td></tr>
<tr><td>Vengeance</td><td>Vengeance followers in the Empire and the claims of the Modnos family, Faraden</td><td>[[383YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_60|383YE Winter]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>Hatred</td><td>The practice of Hatred in the Mournwold with the aid of the Grey Pilgrims</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;>[[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_125|383YE Autumn]]</td><td>Ser Ancél Watcher
<tr><td>Heirs of Terunael</td><td> Investigate the Heirs of Terunael</td>
<td style="white-space: nowrap;>[[383YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_125|383YE Summer]]</td><td>Sariel
<tr><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Trade of liao to Iron Confederacy</td><td>Search for trade of liao to the Iron Confederacy</td><td>[[382YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_91|382YE Winter]]</td><td>Veikko Bondforger
<tr><td>Heirs of Terunael</td><td>The Heirs of Terunael in Brocéliande</td><td>[[382YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_94|382YE Autumn]]</td><td>Irada von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Eater of Hope anchors</td><td>New anchors that the Eater-of-Hope may use to reform after its defeat in the Black Plateau</td><td>[[382YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_92|382YE Summer]]</td><td>Irada von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Freeborn of the Maw</td><td>The names of notable persons of the Freeborn of the Maw believed to be in Fontargenta, Feroz</td><td>[[382YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_79|382YE Spring]]</td><td>Irada von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Unvirtuous auras of cruelty</td><td>Find evidence of unvirtuous auras caused by cruel tactics alone</td><td>[[381YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements|381YE Winter #62]]</td><td>Irada Von Temeschwar
<tr><td>The lost shield of Oath-Heart</td><td>The location of “Oath-Heart”, the legendary shield of Loyalty, once borne by Drumlin the Sworn of Wintermark.</td><td>[[381YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements|381YE Autumn #75]]</td><td>Veikko Bondforger
<tr><td>Grendel in Redoubt</td><td>Details on the creation of a covert organisation in Redoubt by the Grendel</td><td>[[381YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements|381YE Summer #72]]</td><td>Irada Von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Janon cults</td><td>Janon the Eternal of Night and cults associated with them</td><td>[[381YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements|381YE Spring #90]]</td><td>Levitia Endsmeet
<tr><td>Hand of Glory</td><td>The activities of the Hand of Glory</td><td>[[380YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements|380YE Winter #66]]</td><td>Oberon Caeli Rezia di Tassato
<tr><td>Spear of Empress Teleri</td><td>The theft of the Spear of Empress Teleri from her tomb in Necropolis</td><td>[[380YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements|380YE Spring #32]]</td><td>Silas of the Suns of Couros
<tr><td>Lady Barkheart</td><td>The heretic known as Lady Barkheart, preacher of the false exemplar Mikkal of Freedom</td><td>[[379YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements|379YE Autumn #24]]</td><td>Silas of the Suns of Couros
<tr><td>Eater of Hope</td><td>The labyrinth spirit called the Eater-of-Hope</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;>[[379YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements|379YE Summer #31]]</td><td>Jared of the Suns of Couros</tr>

</table>

==Further Reading==
* [[Tend to the Flame]] - Winter 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing the Silent Bell investigation of the Whittlefolk and their sect of Hatred
* [[Rise of Terunael]] - Autumn 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing the Silent Bell investigation of the Heirs of Terunael
* [[Double_or_nothingness#The_Silent_Bell|Double or nothingness]] - Spring 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing investigation of liao smuggling to the Iron Confederacy
* [[No_evil_shall_escape_our_sight|No evil shall escape our sight]] - the Winter 380YE Wind of Fortune that determined how the Silent Bell would interact with the Assembly of the Nine

Half-time score

2023-07-21T06:36:46Z

RichardRaynor: /* Temeschwar */ sp

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"I'm afraid it's not going very well for Tassato, you appear to be losing." Harlequin looked almost apologetic, two percent of the profits was hardly enough to make him a prince, but it was not to be sniffed at. He felt almost guilty about the way things were shaping up.

"Maybe we're all winning!" Fransesca's smile refused to acknowledge the hard truths she was hearing. "Would you believe me if I said that my true loyalty was to the League?"

"No. Sorry Fransesca, but I'm afraid your love of Tassato is well known. You can put a brave face on this, but I know you hoped to win." It gave Harlequin no pleasure to say it, but it was true. The prince was famous for her disdain of Sarvos in particular.

"Perhaps" she shrugged "And perhaps we're not out of this contest yet. Have you heard about the memorial that Alosious proposed?"

"Barell astride the river?" Harlequin's tone betrayed more than a hint of scepticism. "Big sculpture, arms outstretched to show the unity between the two sides of Regario and Mestra? That one..."

"That's the one! What better way to celebrate our Pride in our great city? A symbol of our unity. It's the perfect way to celebrate Tassato's history!"

She beamed at Harlequin, daring him to disagree with him. He decided to accept the challenge. "Is Alosious still proposing to include a beautiful stone bridge to cross the Vassa? Because if I were a gambling man I think that would sink this proposal faster than a stone hitting the water."

The Merchant Prince's laughter was only slightly forced. "Dear old Alosious, you can't fault his Ambition. I believe that some of the other princes have prevailed on him to adopt a more pragmatic approach."

Harlequin inclined his head and smiled. "Well in that case I think I'll take another drink Fransesca... "</ic>
{{audio|link=https://youtu.be/RhUqA3Vr6Xo}}
==Overview==
In the run up the Winter Solstice, Merchant Prince, ''Fransesca di Matos'' worked with [[the League]] [[egregore|egregores]] to propose a [[The_money_goes_round#Life_is_a_Competition|grand competition]]. A challenge to the [[Ambition]], [[Pride]], and [[Prosperity]] of the League to see which of the four is in fact the greatest. The competition runs for a single year, starting at the Winter Solstice 384YE and ending in time for the start of the Winter Solstice 385YE. The winner will be the city that spends the most Bourse resources to "improve" their [[territory]].

To keep things simple, Fransesca wanted everything to count, not just the wains spent on any commission other than armies, but the resources spent by individual citizens to upgrade their own [[business|businesses]] and other personal resources. It has taken the civil service a little time to catch up with Fransesca's plans, but they are now able to provide some information on how the contest is going.
==The Scores So Far==
<table class="wikitable sortable">
<tr><th>City</th><th>Weirwood</th><th>White Granite</th><th>Mithril</th><th>Personal Resource</th><th>Total</th></tr>
<tr><td>Holberg</td><td>15</td><td>40</td><td>0</td><td>35</td><td>90</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sarvos</td><td>0</td><td>12</td><td>0</td><td>35</td><td>47</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tassato</td><td>15</td><td>15</td><td>0</td><td>3</td><td>33</td></tr>
<tr><td>Temeschwar</td><td>30</td><td>70</td><td>10</td><td>10</td><td>120</td></tr>
</table>
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Leaguer Eagle.jpg|caption=Life is a competition, and everything costs.|align=right|width=400}}</div>
After two seasons, [[Temeschwar]] has opened up a clear lead, in no small part thanks to the huge effort required to build the new [[Master_of_Rings|Department of Architecture]] at the University. [[Holberg]] is a close second thanks to massive contributions from citizens upgrading their personal resources couple with the funding for [[In_the_garden_of_defiance#Stones_on_the_Duelling_Fields|Kleists Winter Gardens]]. Both [[Sarvos]] and [[Tassato]] are trailing far behind, with Sarvos in particular completely dependent on the efforts of individual citizens without whose efforts the City would have been reduced to an also-ran.

Still there is everything to play for - and still two seasons to go! With that thought in mind, individual citizens in a few cities are keen to see what more they can co.
==Temeschwar==
* '''Temeschwar is well ahead overall, but investment in personal resources has been low'''
* '''There are two opportunities for great works in Temeschwar, both of which would increase taxation for the Imperial treasury'''

The city of Temeschwar has opened up a commanding lead in the contest, more than 30 wains ahead of its nearest rival. However with the construction of the new department at the university now complete, there are concerns that the supply of building projects could dry up. Now is not the time for the city to rest on it's laurels, particularly given how low investment in businesses and other personal assets based in Temeschwar has been this year.

One way to ensure victory in the contest might be to [[Don't_blame_me#Tear_Out_the_Earth.27s_Heart|build on Ratibor's legacy and the success of the campaign against the Vyig]]. ''Ridley von Temeschwar'', merchant-prince of the ''Descent Guild of Ore Extraction'', has been inspired to pursue their dream of making the mines of Temeschwar the most prosperous in the entire Empire and is proposing to drive a series of brand new roads into the mountains. They would enable the city to excavate the metal deposits much faster, generating record profits for everyone involved. It would require 50 wains of white granite, 50 wains of weirwood, cost 200 Crowns, and take six months to complete but at the end of that time the ''Mines of Temeschwar'' would be some of the finest in the Empire and every [[mine]] in the territory would share in a bounty of 1080 rings every season; every [[business]] in the territory would get a share of 50 random ingots of metal and the [[Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] would gain an additional ''two'' ranks to their ministry.

Alternatively, Temeschwar could log the Vardstein Vale. ''Marina Pretensa di Temeschwar'' of the ''Vardstein Timber'' guild operates out of the Vardstein Vale, a forested wilderness on the edge of Temeschwar. The area is rich in resources that could be exploited. Marina she wants to build the ''Vardstein Timber mill and Sorting Yard'' on the edge of the Vale, a massive sawmill with mithril blades, along with road connecting the wild forest to the safety of the city. Her proposals require 40 wains of white granite, 20 wains of mithril, and 120 crowns and take six months to complete, but once finished, it would function as a great work, distributing a share of 40 measures of forest materials among the businesses of Temeschwar and creating an [[Imperial Title]] to oversee the operation that would benefit from a ministry allowing it to buy forest materials.

What might interest the Senate and permit them to support these projects is the potential for the long term benefits for the Empire and the treasury. Ridley's mines would increase the revenue for the Imperial treasury by 5 thrones a season, while Marina's timber yard would increase it by 10 thrones. Arguably these two commissions are the ones most in line with the original Statement of Principle submitted by Aureliana di Sarvos - that the cities compete to see who could increase Imperial taxation the most.

==Holberg==
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''The Just Rewards'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Sinecure]].</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Misericorde and Utterlund, Holberg</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 15 mithril, 15 weirwood, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' 15 crowns income. Handle the sale of timber from the new woodmills</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time Limit:''' The opportunity to commission the Just Rewards is only available until the end of the Spring Equinox 386YE, and if work is not begun before the start of the Spring Equinox 386YE the opportunity will lapse</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''Holberg is running second, but would need a major project to overtake Temeschwar'''
* '''There is an opportunity to help the Sand Fishers begin work on their sawmills'''

No city of the League is better known for it's expertise in architecture and engineering than Holberg, so it is no surprise that it running second in the contest. Nearly a third of all the resources committed have gone to building Kleist's Winter Gardens however, and that commission is now complete. To overtake Temeschwar and claim the prize, they would likely need a major construction project to begin this season or at the very latest the next one...

That's when some bright spark remembers the Sand Fishers and their "grand" plan [[To_see_what_you_sell#Holberg|to build sawmills]] in [[Holberg#Misericorde|Misericorde]] and [[Holberg#Utterlund|Utterlund]]. They needed 15 wains of mithril and 15 wains of weirwood for the work, but they said they didn't want any help at all. They were quite determined to pay for it themselves - even if it took them ''years''. If they start work now... well it wouldn't hurt. There's a few raised eyebrows at the suggestion, after-all they're not technically League citizens. But they live in Holberg - well in the marshes that nobody wants to be fair - but still! They're in Holberg... so by the terms of Fransesca's contest, they count.

A few quick conversations with the orcs visiting the [[Merchant_Prince_of_Misericorde_Market#Misericorde_Market|Misericorde Market]] confirms that after a year the orcs have accumulated an impressive 16 wains. 8 wains of mithril, and 8 wains of weirwood. It's an impressive feat, even if most of the achievement can probably be laid at the door of the Merchant Princes of the Market who have kept it well stocked with resources ever since it opened. They're are nearly half way to being ready to start their great work - barely another a year to go!

The Sand Fishers are excited about the prospect of helping with the contest, but they remain adamant that they won't accept any aid. Their [[Pride]] and their dedication to [[Prosperity]] has made them determined to achieve their goal without aid. But what if it wasn't aid... what if they paid for the materials? They haven't got any money at the moment, but once someone explains the idea of a loan to them, they are all in.

If an enterprising League citizen were to lend the Sand Fishers the remaining funds they need... say 50 thrones, they could pay them back at the rate of 351 rings a season for the next ten years. That would enable the Sand Fishers to begin work on their new sawmills immediately - and that would contribute another 30 wains to Holberg's totals! It's a flawless plan with one slight drawback - the Sand Fishers are a little suspicious of the idea of a loan. They don't entirely trust the League not to just ''give'' them the money. So they'd like a mandate from the League Assembly to endorse a nominated citizen to provide the loan who can then receive the repayments, so they know it is all above board.

{{Mandate|mandate=Strive, toil, and claim the just rewards of your labours. We send {named citizen} with 50 thrones to lend to the Sand Fishers with which to buy the resources they need. No one knows what the morrow holds, but in this case it's a little under 8%|assembly=League National Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, the citizen will need to have 50 thrones in their inventory after the event ends. That will be removed, and they will receive loan repayments from the Sand Fishers of 351 rings a season for the next ten years. It's also worth noting that if the Sand Fishers were to finally complete their sawmills, they'd be in an excellent position to aid the League with building a port on [[the Semmerlak]] - something the League assembly are [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_74|clearly in favour of]].

==Sarvos==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:400px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Chain Against Chains'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''[[Fortification]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Uccelini, Sarvos</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 130 white granite, 32 Thrones 4 crowns, one year to construct</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Opportunity:''' Merchants of Sarvos will match the white granite contributed, wain for wain, for the next two seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Fortify Sarvos, particularly against coastal assault.</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Sarvos is running way behind Temeschwar and Holberg'''
* '''The Senate has commissioned the construction of an innovative new fortification designed to protect the city from the threat of the Grendel'''
* '''Merchant Prince Genia Bourné is has extended her offer to build the Brokers Office until the end of the 385YE'''

It has to be said, Sarvos are not currently set to win the contest, they're beating Tassato but only just. As one cynic points out, if the Sandfishers put the thirteen wains they've bought into the contest themselves then they'd be just ahead of the collected luminaries of Sarvos. The personal aspirations of individual citizens have kept Sarvos in the race, but only just.

Arguably, Sarvos has more important things to worry about than a competition. The Grendel peace treaty is due to expire soon, Spiral has just joined the League, and the Grendel are likely to be pretty furious about that. And they just so happen to have three massive naval armadas anchored off the coast of the Empire. The Grendel have sacked Sarvos once in recent memory - it's hard to argue that it couldn't happen again. What is needed, urgently, is a major fortification effort to secure Sarvos. [[Sarvos#Our_Lady_of_Pride|Our Lady of Pride]] exists but by itself, it simply will not be enough to hold off a Grendel armada.

What should do just that is the [[The_parents_of_security#A_Chain_Against_Chains|coastal defences proposed by Menno Van Ritsjhof]]. These have [[Construct_Steel_Rings_of_Sarvos|now been announced]] by the [[Master of the Koboldi]], but after a season there has been no meaningful progress on their construction. The commission needs 130 wains of white granite - thus far concerned citizens have provided five crowns.

The influential merchant princes of Sarvos are keen to support the new commission as much as possible. It's the perfect way to get Sarvos back in the race and to secure the City against the depredations of the Grendel. To that end they are prepared to match the white granite contributed to the project with one wain of their own for every two wains submitted, for the next two seasons. Even then the fortification would not be complete until two seasons ''after'' the peace treaty expires, but perhaps even that problem could be resolved with the right magic...

The fortification is not the only possibility. While Sarvos' destiny as the City of Masks is secured, there are still opportunities to both [[The_DOOM_that_came_to_Sarvos#The_City_of_Songs|refurbish the Glass Palace]] (the grand theatre), and [[The_DOOM_that_came_to_Sarvos#The_City_of_Spices|establish the Greatest Taste]] (the open air banquet) in the city. Beautiful follies both, they would greatly contribute to Sarvos' position as a centre of culture in the Empire. Perhaps a little more practically, Merchant Prince Genia Bourné argues that ''now'' is the perfect opportunity to establish the [[Dressed_in_smoke_and_fire#The_Schemas|the brokers office]] that she first proposed more than a year ago. The Prince is eager to place her network of agents and buyers at the disposal of the City, and the contest has fired her imagination, so she is prepared to wait two seasons more, until the end of 385YE, before she permanently disposes of her assets.

==Tassato==
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''The Merchant Prince of Tassato'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Folly]].</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Between Tassato Mestra and Tassato Regario in Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 75 white granite, six months</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''Tassato looks set to finish last; it has invested barely a quarter of the totals managed by the front-runner Temeschwar'''
* '''Tassato could commission a great statue of Barell, Merchant-Prince of Tassato and one of the founders of the League'''

Tassato's performance thus far has been uninspiring. They're a long way behind Sarvos, who are themselves in third place. In fact, if it weren't for the efforts of Astrid Fjellrevening to repair the damage done to the Blood Red River museum in Tassato there would have been almost no wains invested in the city at all. It's a sorry state of affairs, and one made all the more bleak by the [[Shallows_and_miseries#Game_Information|destruction of the Sapphire Stair by the Jotun]]. Rebuilding that would require 30 wains, which would nearly double the cities current total, but it's hard to think of that as an "investment" given that it would only replace what has just been destroyed.

While scratching around for ideas, someone suggests the [[You'll_recognise_yourself#The_Colossus_of_Tassato|statue of Il Volpe]] that was proposed a few years ago. But Il Volpe is dead, so it's unlikely that there are any more wains to be had from that source. It seems like a dead duck.

But... what if Tassato had a great statue of its own, not of Il Volpe, but of one of the founders of the League? At the time the Empire was being established, [[Aldones di Sarvos]] met with two co-conspirators, Barell, Merchant Prince of Tassato, and Maria Ivanova, Boyar of Temeschwar. The three agreed to support the First Empress, and in doing so they created the idea of [[The_League_history|the League]], an alliance of great cities that would come together as a nation with equal power and importance to Highguard and the other nations. It was an extraordinary achievement, one for which Aldones was rightly [[recognition|recognised]] as an exemplar by the Imperial Synod. But Barell has never had the recognition he deserves - even today there are precious few statues or memorials to this hugely important figure.

There is a large portrait of Barell hanging in the apartments of the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]]. Tassato could use the painting as the basis for a great statue that would stand in the centre of the Vassa, arms outstretched in either direction - a symbol of Regario and Mestra coming together, just as the cities of the League came together. The proposal is a grand folly, taller than the mint and visible from the roof of any house in the city. It would need to be coupled with concerted efforts in the Synod, but if the Barell were made an exemplar, or if [[true liao]] were found to consecrate the statue, who knows what benefits it might offer? Perhaps the [[Lepidean Librarian]] could be engaged to look into the life of Barell - many historical accounts speak of him as a man of not only grand ambition and prosperity, but also one who took immense pride in his position as the leader of the greatest city on the Bay of Catazar.

It wouldn't be cheap - but that is the consequence of Ambition. If no price is too high to realise your dreams, then nothing can stand in your way. By itself it wouldn't be enough to get Tassato back in the running to win the contest, but with the right consecration it would lift the Pride of every Tassatan who gazed upon it, and that might just be more important.

==Further Reading==
* [[The money goes round]] - Winter 384YE Wind of Fortune introducing the competition and listing some prior building opportunities for each of the cities

Pride and prejudice

2023-07-20T20:56:53Z

RichardRaynor: /* Warlocks of Mirnatocz */ table correction

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"I could kill him from here, and he'd never know what hit him," said Alov. He nocked an arrow but made no motion to draw. Kassa would have slapped him if he had.

"I don't doubt it, but what about all those schlacta?" She asked, patiently. "Can you kill all of them without them knowing what hit them?"

"I'm not sure they are all actually schlacta," he replied, shading his eyes to get a better look at the little caravan wending its way between the trees at the bottom of the hill. "The armour's wrong for a start, and they..."

"Whether they're schlacta or not hardly matters," interrupted Kassa. "You shoot one merchant, or priest, or whatever he is, and then what?"

"We're too fast for those lumbering oxen," scoffed Alov. "They'd be stumbling around in the undergrowth while we were picking off the rest of them, and gone before the last body hit the ground."

"I can't believe even you are that stupid, Alov," she said, her patience beginning to fray. He shot her a hurt look, as much from her tone as her words. "When a half dozen of them turn up with our arrows stuck in their necks, what do you think they'll do? Do you think they'll blame the crows? Start looking for husks with bows? Roust the Branocfolk? Be serious. They'll come straight to us, and they'll kill us."

"Got to find us first," muttered Alov without looking at her. But he put his arrow back in its quiver and let his bow fall. "I know these woods better than they do."

"And what about everyone else? Do you think the Varushkans will care ''which'' orcs shot their priest? What in all the wide forest makes you think they'll care about something like that?"

Alov mumbled something.

"What was that?"

He cleared his throat. "We could ask the Battlefed to protect us."

"We could, but how would be different to making a deal with the Varushkans?"

Alov opened his mouth and shut it again.

"I know you're young, Alov," she said more gently. "I know your ancestors are telling you that these are our woods and we should take them back but... we have to live in the world as it is and not as we'd like it to be. Not in the memory of a thousand years past. We live on the threshold of a power that could snuff us out without even thinking about it. Worse, could make it so that within a generation nobody would remember we had ever existed. You may not like it, but we have to be realistic. We have to make whatever accommodations we can with them, or they will just... eat us."

That made Alov laugh.

"They don't really eat orcs, Kassa. That's just a silly story to scare young'uns. I know I'm young but even I don't believe that!"

But Kassa didn't laugh, and Alov's humour faltered, and they sat quietly watching the caravan snake its way up the hillside toward their home.</ic>
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Jared of the Suns of Couros,Mandate, Highborn Assembly">Highguard wishes Varushka to be our Partner in Greatness this season. In Juha the Cave Spider's example, we wish to support this great nation in building bonds through trading with, and finding out about, their mortal non-Imperial neighbours. We send Jared of the Suns of Couros with 25 liao to convince our benefactors and unconquered to offer their support to their Varushkan siblings so their lands may be tamed and harnessed further.</quote>
<quote by="Vaclav Mladenovich Kosti, Mandate, Varushkan Assmebly">Varushka is very large, and we must acknowledge that we share it with fellow sapient beings - the orcs. We send Velko Perunovich Razoradze with 50 doses of liao to urge any Varushkan who can do so to make peaceful contact with the orcs who share our hills and forests, consider their virtue, and discover what deals might be made with them.</quote></div>
==Overview==
During the Winter Solstice, the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] National Assembly enacted a [[mandate]] urging traders, merchants, and [[volhov]] to seek to make peaceful contact with [[orc|orcs]] living in their nation. '''Velko Perunovich Razoradze''' was sent to spread the word, and encourage people to make deals with the orcs - including the [[Thule]]. At the same time, the [[Highguard|Highborn]] assembly enacted a mandate of their own, sending Jared of the Suns of Couros to [[Full_of_sacred_sound#Partner_of_Greatness|support the Varushkans]] in their approach to the orcs.

The most prominent group of orcs in Varushka are of course the [[Thule]], who thanks to various treaties and alliances control the regions of [[Miekarova#Miechernya|Miechernya]] in [[Miekarova]], [[Karsk#Krevsaty|Krevsaty]] in [[Karsk]], and both the [[Ossium#Bonewood|Bonewood]] and [[Ossium#Webwood|Webwood]] in [[Ossium]]. Since the [[Ratify Thule peace treaty|peace treaty]] of 382YE, the orcs of [[Otkodov]] have by all accounts been keen for good relations with their neighbours to the south. The [[Ambassador to Otkodov]], for example, is traditionally Varushkan and while the Thule cannot demand that an Imperial title be given to members of a specific nation, there is a widespread understanding that if the Ambassador is not from Varushka the orcs will be unhappy. Trade with the Thule has been quietly taking place for some years now, most notably via [[Overseer of the Westward Road|Delev Market]] in [[Karov]], but that doesn't mean that other avenues might not be found to ensure mutual prosperity.

They aren't the only orcs in Varushka, however. There have always been small independent ''septs'' that live in isolation across the hills and forests of the nation, keeping very much to themselves. They face the same dangers as their human neighbours - the threats of dark powers and monsters from the wild places. Indeed, given the violent history of relations between Varushkans and orcs until very recently, their settlements are even more likely to be overrun by wolves given they must inhabit the most isolated parts of the wilderness, far from human vales. Most of these septs are relatively peaceful, although few have any real contact with the varushkans. Any that were ''not'' peaceful, any that thought to raid the vales, were either wiped out or enslaved generations ago. There are also a handful of small groups who fought for freedom during the [[The Orc Rebellion|orc rebellion]], but for whatever reason refused to become part of the [[Imperial Orcs]] and join the Empire. The status of these septs is a little nebulous, but for the most part these days Imperial law assumes they are foreigners unless they give a good reason to think otherwise.

Finally, there are three other larger ''septs'' who are reasonably well known, who live mostly in the eastern territories. The orcs of [[Karsk#Branoc|Branoc]] have several small vales in the vicinity of the [[Karsk#Broken Hill|Broken Hill]] and have some sort of relationship with the sovereign known as the [[Charnel Lord]]. The ''sept'' of the [[Blood_makes_noise#The_Sept_of_the_Menrothat|Menrothat]] live in southern [[Ossium]], and are perhaps the largest group of independent orcs in the nation. Finally there are the [[Culling_the_threat#The_Dreamers_of_the_Dark_Forest|Dreamers of the Dark Forest]], also in Ossium, whose aid has been sought regarding the threat of [[Druj]] invasion from the [[Forest of Ulnak]].

As the Summer Solstice approaches, then, the seeds of a season of cautious contact with the other sapient creatures who share the woods and hills of Varushka are beginning to sprout, for good or ill.
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: leftt;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Pride and prejudice.png|caption=The Thule are always eager to trade with their human neighbours to the south, but they are not the only orcs that live in the wilderness of Varushka.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==From Over the Mountains==
* '''The Thule are the closest orc neighbours for many Varushkans'''
The largest group of orcs in Varushka are the Thule - although technically they are not ''in'' Varushka as such. Krevsaty and Miechernya were ceded to them, and so legally they are part of Otkodov. The orcs are well settled in both regions; indeed they have constructed large [[fortification|fortifications]] in both east and west and show no signs that they are planning to leave any time soon. There is already some trade between the Thule and the vales that border their lands, and by all accounts those involved are doing quite well thank you.

It's an open secret that since [[The_sweetest_of_songs#Voice_of_the_Dragons|freeing their slaves]], the Thule have been having some problems keeping all their people well fed. Merchants trading with the orcs of Otkodov report rumours of starvation, and the Thule Ambassador ''Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided'' has not denied it. During the recent meeting at [[Anvil]], '''Fania Vessely-Vanek''', the [[Ambassador to Otkodov]], broached the subject of closer trade links between Otkodov and Varushka, and when the first cautious approaches are made to the orcs in Krevsaty and Miechernya, they already have some proposals to put forward to those who are interested.

===Gift of the Dwindling Star===
* '''It would cost 8 white granite, 16 crowns and take three months to expand the Dwindling Star'''
* '''Once complete, it would allow the title-holder to purchase up to 4 extra rings of ilium from the Thule'''
* '''These benefits would end if the Empire ever went to war with the Thule'''
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''The High Path'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Ministry]].</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Volodmartz, Brez</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 8 white granite, 16 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Allows the trade of food for ilium</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time Limit:''' The opportunity to commission the High Path is only available until the end of the Summer Solstice 385YE, and if work is not completed before the start of the Autumn Equinox 385YE the commission fails</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time Limit:''' This commission has required elements; if any are not all fulfilled then it does nothing</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Trade with Volodmartz'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGreen;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost'''</td><td>'''Red Star Ilium'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>23 Crowns</td><td>1 ring of ilium</td></tr>
<tr><td>54 Crowns</td><td>2 rings of ilium</td></tr>
<tr><td>88 Crowns</td><td>3 rings of ilium</td></tr>
<tr><td>130 Crowns</td><td>4 rings of ilium</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
The offices of the [[Gift of the Dwindling Star]] are three rooms above an inn in [[Volodmartz#Brez|Brez]]. The [[ilium]] provided by the Thule is usually brought down through the mountains by a well-guarded warlock, carried in a strongbox marked with runes and bound with wards. Opportunities for trade are limited - but during the most recent exchange the warlock delivering the ilium came with a proposal for consideration by the holder of the seat - currently the newly appointed '''Fretek Sargava Slavomiryn'''. Currently the Thule provide four rings of ilium each season, taken from the glowing red comet that smashed into the Thule territory of [[Otkodov#Sk.C3.BCld|Sküld]] following an arrangement with the magicians of Varushka. The Dragons have, after considerable discussion, approved the proposal that more of the star metal be made available through the office at Brez.

The path up the mountains into Otkodov is not easy, but it could be made more accessible. It would still be of little use to armies but there are places where it could be widened or levelled to allow larger groups of travellers to pass without risk. The Thule know that the Varushkans are masters of the art of road building, and if they are prepared to work with the orcs of Otkodov, a path could be cut through the mountain. This would give the Bourse seat holder the option to purchase a larger share of the ilium mined from the fallen star - and give the Thule Dragons funds to buy food to feed their people.

Once complete, the High Path would allow trade through the mountains to take place on a larger scale than one warlock visiting four times a year. At first, the majority of the goods being purchased by the Thule would be foodstuffs, but the markets there would also see demand for fine quality crafted goods, honey wine and mead, Varushkan textiles, and other quality products of the nation's economy. For the time being though the emphasis would overwhelmingly be on food - and if the work is not completed before the start of the Autumn equinox, it will be too late to provide food to the orcs of the north. As such, it must be commissioned at the Summer Solstice, and work must be completed before the Autumn Equinox, or the commission will fail.

===Masks of the Trees and Hills===
* '''A warlock named Orathator has special masks to trade with the Warden of Trees and Hills and the Gloaming Sentinel'''
The [[Warden of the Trees and Hills#Warden's Hall|Warden's Hall]] was established at [[Karsk#Ivarsgard|Ivarsgard]] in [[Karsk]] initially to deal with the influx of former Druj slaves freed by the Thule armies from the Bonewood during the liberation of Ossium. These days it mostly serves as a place for those with jobs to offer to post notices, or interview potential candidates, and helps supply workers for farms, mines, forests, and businesses not only in Karsk but in parts of the neighbouring territories. It is ably overseen by the [[Warden of the Trees and Hills]], who is also responsible for promoting the prosperity of Karsk as a whole, and charged with mediating any disputes between mine and forest owners in the territory.

Since the liberation of Ossium, one of the warlocks who [[Between_peace_and_hate#The_Slaves_of_Ivarsgard|escourted the former slaves to Ivarsgard]] has been trading across central Varushka. Now based in Miechernya, ''Orathator of the Hourglass'' leads a caravan of merchants who are particularly interested in purchasing [[iridescent gloaming]] from the forests of Varushka. Following the Spring Equinox, a group of Varushkan and Highborn pilgrims shared a Navarr [[wayhouse]] in [[Miekarova#Srodkoja|Srodkoja]] and spent several days discussing and negotiating.

It appears that Orathator is a master of [[enchantment]], specifically the kind of enchantments that bring prosperity to mines and forests. Part of his successes trading with Varushkans came from a willingness to provide the occasional enchantment in return for the lion's share of the bounty his magic brought. At the urging of a fascinated [[magister]], he shows the assembly his ''Mask of the Dark Woods'' and his ''Mask of the Deep Hills'' - a pair of [[:Category:Foci|foci]] that he makes regular use of. After further discussion, Orathator admits that he assumed that Imperial magicians already made use of similar talismans, but also agrees that if there is interest he could add providing some of these [[magic items]] to the list of services his caravan can provide. Assuming the Dragons do not object.

Orathator's travels take him all over Varushka, but there are two places he always makes a point of visiting. The [[Gloaming_Sentinel#Butterfly_Holt|Butterfly Holt]] in Miekarova, and the town of Ivarsgard on the edge of [[the Semmerlak]]. He could deliver masks for sale to either location, but stresses that there is a limited supply, and he would want something in return.
====Masks for the Warden====
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Orathator's Masks'''</td><td style="background-color: LightYellow;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>1 Mask of the Dark Woods</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>1 Mask of the Deep Hills</td></tr>
<tr><td>42 crowns</td><td>1 Mask of the Dark Woods and 1 Mask of the Deep Hills</td></tr>
<tr><td>42 crowns</td><td>2 Masks of the Deep Hills</td></tr>
<tr><td>42 crowns</td><td>2 Masks of the Dark Woods</td></tr>
<tr><td>66 crowns</td><td>2 Masks of the Deep Hills and 1 Mask of the Dark Woods</td></tr>
<tr><td>66 crowns</td><td>2 Masks of the Dark Woods and 1 Mask of the Deep Hills</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Warlock is keen to receive Varushkan assistance in gaining access to the 'Well of Shadows''''
* '''If access is secured Orathator will provide magical masks for purchase by the Warden of the Trees and Hills'''
In a candid moment, Orathator admits that part of his interest in Varushka, and Miekarova in particular, is the presence somewhere in the territory of a place he calls the ''Well of Shadows''. According to Orathator, the ''Well'' is a magical, somewhat mobile, chamber of the [[Night magic|Night realm]] belonging to the [[eternal]] he calls the [[Sadogua|Dark-that-Devours]]. At one point it stood in [[Skarsind]] where it was called [[Skarsind#Pakaanan.27s_Pass|Pakannan's Tower]] but the eternal moved it. His attempts to secure access have been repeatedly rebuffed by the ''Brother of Wizards'' and he doesn't know why. Nor can he find the actual location; he suspects that the same wards that keep the place safe from the depredations of monsters are making it difficult to locate. However, the warlock is aware that the eternal has a soft spot for some Varushkan magicians, and if they are prepared to use their influence on his behalf to gain him access to the Well, he will arrange for the [[Warden of the Trees and Hills]] to be able to purchase up to three masks each season.

The warlock has no idea how Varushkan wizards could influence the eternal, but at least contacting them is [[Missive for Sadogua|quite straightforward]]. The same magister who persuaded him to show off his masks mentions privately to their Varushkan hosts that they recall last Autumn there was talk of the ''Eater of Secrets'' [[Hopeless_as_a_feather#Sadogua|organising some kind of game]] related to a Well, and that one of their fellow Highborn was mentioned.
====Masks for the Sentinel====
* '''Orathator regularly visits the Butterfly Holt in Miekarova and is prepared to offer magical masks to the Gloaming Sentinel as well'''
* '''In return he wants a specific ritual from Imperial lore that he believes will improve his prestige in the eyes of his fellow warlocks'''
Among the warlocks - or Orathator's peers at any rate - prestige is measured by the rituals the orc knows. Those with mastery of more uncommon rituals have more prestige than those who know only the basic rites and ceremonies. There is fierce competition among warlocks like Orathator to possess useful knowledge. The Dragons rarely bother to intervene directly, but access to specific rituals is often closely controlled by one Dragon or another and those without their favour cannot master their rituals. While travelling through Varushka, Orathator has kept his eyes open for opportunities to secure such lore for himself, and has finally settled on a ritual he would very much like to master.

The warlock has never come across the ritual [[Delve Deep, Beneath the Mountain]] back home. He doesn't doubt that something like it exists in the great catacomb-library of [[Otkodov#Nithoggir|Nithoggir]] but he does not have the influence to access it. He would ''very much'' like to acquire a copy for himself. It's clear he isn't asking on behalf of the Dragons, or the Thule as a whole, He wants a ritual text so that he can use it to improve his prestige...and also potentially his wealth by offering it to mine owners on both sides of the mountains. He seems quite up-front in his reasoning - the Dragons do not prioritize precious metal over ingots of [[weltsilver]] and the like so have little interest in magic that makes it easier to find. But there are plenty of orcs in Otkodov who appreciate precious metals and jewels.

If the Imperial Conclave is prepared to [[Dissemination|Disseminate]] a copy of that ritual to him, he will arrange for the [[Gloaming Sentinel]] to be able to purchase up to three masks each season (using the same costs as offered to the Warden of the Trees and Hills). He doesn't know exactly how the Conclave would do this, only that they are able to do so, but seems confident that whatever the price is, the Gloaming Sentinel will be able to make the cost back in a few seasons if they are clever about how they use the masks.
====Limited Opportunities====
Both opportunities remain available until the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE. If the Varushkans or the Conclave have not completed a deal with Orathator by that point they will lose the chance to do so.
====Mask of the Dark Woods====
* '''Form:''' Mask
* Effect: +1 rank for a ritual that targets a forest. The ritual must specifically target a forest, using the character who controls it as a focus. If the ritual targets more than one forest, the bonus increases to +2. The rituals known to the Empire that this effects are Rampant Growth, Verdant Bounty of the Twilight Bayou, Conclave of Trees and Shadows, and Flame and the Flood.
====Mask of the Deep Hills====
* '''Form:''' Mask
* Effect: +1 rank for a ritual that targets a mine. The ritual must specifically target a mine, using the character who controls it as a focus. If the ritual targets more than one mine, the bonus increases to +2. The rituals known to the Empire that this effects are Revelation of the Jewel's Sparkling Heart, Delve Deep Beneath the Mountain, Raise the Dragonsworn Cohort, and An Echo of Songs.

===Warlocks of Mirnatocz===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Red Moss'''</td><td style="background-color: LightYellow;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>3 dragonbone</td><td>2 doses of red moss</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 dragonbone</td><td>5 doses of red moss</td></tr>
<tr><td>12 dragonbone</td><td>8 doses of red moss</td></tr></table>
</div>
* '''The Warlocks of Mirnatocz are prepared to make a peculiar red moss popular with the orcs of Otkodov available to the Varushkans'''
* '''In return they want access to the Sarcophan Mooring at Iversgard'''
At one point Mirnatocz in [[Karsk#Krevsaty|Krevsaty]] was a tiny settlement near the border with [[Karsk#Crowslook|Crowslook]]. It fell to the Thule in 368YE, and the [[cabalists|cabal]] who once lived there either died or fled. Barely a vale, it consisted mostly of a squat tower with a wall around it. What made it notable was that it was settled near the Spider's Tears, a [[regio]] aligned to the realm of Winter, connected to the eternal known as [[Wise Rangara|Grandmother Winter]]. Apparently, some kink in the local magical geography meant that the cabalists struggled to get the [[Mana site|flows of magic]] to align in the correct manner meaning they were always suffering a shortage of [[Game_items#Mana_Crystals|mana crystals]]. They raised money to buy this vital resource by selling potions of use to ritual magicians.

Now, the tower is home to a coven of Thule warlocks who don't seem to mind the difficulty of acquiring crystal mana (they are well supplied by their peers apparently), but welcome opportunities to expand their influence by trading with their Imperial neighbours. In addition to the warlocks themselves, the tower is apparently home to several [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]], and they appear to be particularly proud of the nearby regio. While visiting, they show their guests a peculiar ''red moss'' which they say is highly valued by their battle-mages and healers. They are evasive about how it is cultivated, confirming only that the process requires access to both [[dragonbone]] and "''the right kind of Winter regio''". When properly prepared the red moss is consumed to increase the [[Magical_skills#Extra_Mana|personal magical reserves]] of a magician, much like a tonic might increase the constitution of a warrior. It is of minimal use to ritual magicians, but potentially quite valuable to [[spellcasting|spellcasters]].

The warlocks are prepared to trade some of the prepared moss with the Varushkans but, in the spirit of quid-pro-quo, they want something in return. They are aware that "''foreign merchants who trade in potions and herbs''" regularly visit the vale of [[Karsk#Ivarsgard|Ivarsgard]]: they are referring to the [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks#The_Sarcophan_Mooring|Sarcophan Mooring]]. Technically, there is no legal reason the Thule can't visit Ivarsgard and talk to the Sarcophan merchants, but they lack the facilities to engage in any serious trade. They would like the [[Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks]] to set aside a warehouse for their use, in lieu of rent they will ensure a supply of ''red moss'' is made available for purchase with measures of dragonbone. They could do what they wished with the unfamiliar material - use it themselves, give it as gifts, or sell it on.

The warlocks have already secured the blessing of the Thule Ambassador to make this approach, although apparently Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided was sceptical about whether Imperial magicians would be interested in the ''red moss''. All that is needed is for the Custodian to give permission, and for the [[Ambassador to Otkodov]] to tell the Thule that that permission has been given.

====Alternative Access====
* '''It is possible to steal the secret of cultivating and preparing the red moss from the warlocks'''
* '''The Varushkan or Highborn Assembly could use a mandate to steal the secret of red moss'''
* '''The Shuttered Lantern could use a declaration of concord to steal the secret'''

While visiting the Mirnatocz orcs, and examining the ''red moss'', a wagon raider named ''Urod Malok Malkeivitch'' comes away with a slightly different proposal in mind, one that is backed up by a Highborn unconquered named ''Bathsheba of Corous Cross''. It seems that the ''red moss'' is just a plant - albeit one like [[Realmsroot]] that needs careful cultivation in a specific environment. It is not possible to use the processed substance the warlocks are offering to work out how the herb was grown and prepared. but Urod says it is possible to just flat-out ''steal'' the secret of the manufacture from Mirnatocz and replicate it elsewhere.

The Varushkan Synod could encourage their wagon raiders to carry out a ''discreet'' raid on the tower to steal the secret of red moss.

{{Mandate|mandate= Consequences are the price of Ambition. We send {named priest} with 25 doses of liao to urge the wagon-raiders to find a covert way to steal the secret of red moss from the Thule. No price is too high to realise our dreams.|assembly=Varushkan National Assembly}}

Bathsheba feels likewise that the unconquered could uncover the secret of creating the red moss if they were authorised to do so by the Highborn Assembly.

{{Mandate|mandate=Wisdom is finding the right question. We send {named priest} with 25 doses of liao to ask the Unconquered to discreetly acquire the secret of red moss from the Thule and spread it to the Empire. The Virtuous apply what they have learned.|assembly=Highborn National Assembly}}

There is no chance of red moss becoming widespread across the Empire - if such a thing were possible then the Empire would have discovered its secrets years ago. But if either mandate is passed then it will lead to a chance to steal the secret of it's manufacture from the Thule and an opportunity to create the substance somewhere in the nation that took it. These mandates are not in competition, if both mandates are passed, both nations will gain a chance to cultivate red moss somewhere in the nation if they succeed in acquiring the secret.

The [[Conclave order]] of the [[Shuttered Lantern]] would also be capable of uncovering the secret of red moss and how it is grown and prepared, should the [[Imperial Conclave]] ask them to do so with a suitably worded [[Declaration]] of [[Concord]]. Due to the delicacy of the task, only local members of the order would be involved - so the chance to cultivate red moss would only occur in Varushka if this happened and the attempt to steal the secret succeeded.

All three groups, the Shuttered Lantern, the wagon raiders and the unconquered would make every effort to be as subtle as possible. They are all highly capable people, they ''will not be discovered in the act''. However it is inevitable at some point that the warlocks will discover that the Empire has learned the secret of red moss - and they will suspect the Empire has spied on them. However, unless someone reputable (such as the Ambassador to Otkodov) actually tells them about it, they won't act on their suspicions unless they gain clear evidence of the act.

Technically the act is not illegal, since the treaty doesn't forbid espionage and spying - which is what this would amount to. It is certainly pushing the bounds of what the treaty does allow however and the Dragons will be furious if they uncover the truth of what has happened.

==The Orcs of Branoc==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Leshun Market'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''[[Ministry]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Branoc, Karsk</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 16 weirwood, 3 thrones, three months to complete</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect: ''' Creates the title of ''Speaker to the Leshun''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time Limit:''' If Leshun market is not commissioned by the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE the opportunity is lost</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Opportunity: This commission has required elements; if any are not all fulfilled the commission does nothing</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:400px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Speaker to the Leshun'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Varushkan national position</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Annual appointment; Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives access to a sinecure</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Ensures good relation with the Leshun; mediates between orcs and Varushkans throughout the nation</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Opportunity:''' This title has required elements; if any are not all fulfilled the title does not gain some or all of its powers</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''At the Market'''</td><td style="background-color: LightYellow;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>7 crowns</td><td>6 Ambergelt, 4 Bladeroot, 4 Imperial Roseweald</td></tr>
<tr><td>17 crowns</td><td>12 Ambergelt, 8 Bladeroot, 8 Imperial Roseweald</td></tr>
<tr><td>30 crowns</td><td>18 Ambergelt, 12 Bladeroot, 12 Imperial Roseweald</td></tr>
<tr><td>65 crowns</td><td>18 Ambergelt, 12 random measures, 12 Bladeroot, 12 Imperial Roseweald, 18 random herbs</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Branoc orcs have contacts with several other orc septs'''
* '''With their aid a market could be established in Branoc specifically to deal with Varushkan orcs'''
* '''The Speaker to the Leshun would have custodianship of a small ministry and mediate between orcs and Varushkans when needed'''
Everyone knew orcs lived in the hills and forests of northern Karsk. Occasionally they would raid smaller vales, but for the most part they survived mostly by not giving the Varushkans a reason to wipe them out, or take them as slaves. They were often seen visiting the [[Karsk#Broken_Barrow|Broken Barrow]], presumably making blood-offerings to the [[Charnel Lord]] in return for protection from the horrors of the wild woods, and on a few occasions when they were threatened the sovereign interceded on their behalf, further discouraging anyone from enslaving or driving them out. The few scholars who gave any thought to them at all assumed they were descended from Thule raiders, or were simply the descendants of the same orcs who lived in the hills and forests of Karsk before the [[People of the North|coming of humans]].

Things changed when the Thule invaded Karsk in 368YE. The small orc settlements in Krevsaty and Nitrost were conquered along with their human neighbours, and they received noticeably worse treatment from the occupying forces. Those who could sought sanctuary in Branoc, and fought alongside the humans there as part of the sinister army of the Broken Hill. After the war, the remaining orcs stayed in Branoc, and founded an independent settlement near Broken Hill. They apparently call themselves the ''Sept of the Leshun'', although they don't object to being referred to as the orcs of Branoc either. While they haven't been formally recognised as foreigners by the Imperial Senate, they already engaged in some quiet trade with their neighbouring vales. For the most part they continue to live quiet lives away from human eyes.

At the urging of the recent mandate, more effort has been made to widen the opportunities for trade with these orcs. It turns out that the ''sept'' has loose ties with several similar settlements of orcs not only in Karsk, but also in [[Volodmartz]]. The orcs are cautious, and the initial meetings are fraught with the potential for disaster, but the support of the [[Highguard|Highborn]] proves surprisingly useful. The ancestors of the Leshun have a low opinion of the Varushkans but the Highborn are a cipher. They're also able to draw on recent experiences in [[the Barrens]], as well as historical work with he [[Imperial Orcs]] when they joined the Empire. Once the ice is broken, the Varushkans are able to find some common ground with the orcs and they cautiously agree to formalise trade with their human neighbours.

The Leshun are talented hunters, making use of peculiar wards that help them avoid the wolves of the deep woods, and are also adept herbalists. They tend to several forest groves, enjoying particular success at gathering [[ambergelt]]. They even have a small number of ritual magicians among their number, primarily practitioners of the lores of Winter and Spring. Perhaps more importantly, they have contacts with several of the scattered independent septs that live in the depths of Varushka, and could reassure them that the Varushkan overtures are sincere - assuming they were.

The suggestion is that the Varushkans establish a small market outside the main Leshun settlement in Branoc, the village that shares its name with the sept. This would cost 16 wains of weirwood, 3 Thrones, and take three months to complete. It would establish the title of ''Speaker to the Leshun'', who would receive custodianship of a small [[ministry]] related to trade with the orcs. They would be responsible for keeping relations with the Leshun, but also for mediating any disputes between independent orcs and Varushkans that might arise. Legally, the [[Imperial Consul]] has authority to deal with any independent orcs in the Empire, or at least to negotiate with them. The Leshun are not interested in such high-scale politics however; they just want someone they can bring problems to if they arise.

The current opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 385YE. If not commissioned by then, the Leshun will continue to live quietly in Branoc but will not welcome a market, or speak to the other septs of Varushka, unless further overtures are made.

==Menrothrat in Ossium==
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WingedMessenger.png|caption=''Saroso Menrothat'' is an elder of the sept. A [[Call Winged Messenger|Winged Messenger]] can be sent to her at The Centipede Stump, Drownbark Forest, Ossium.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''The Menrothat have cautious relations with some of the vales of Ossium'''
* '''They would be much more amenable to trade with the Varushkans if the region of Farweald in the Barrens was restored to them'''
The Menrothat are one of the largest septs of independent orcs in Varushka. Based in [[Ossium#Nearwald|Nearwald]] in [[Ossium]], there are also members in the south-eastern Echofell, the eastern Drownbark Forest, the western [[Forest of Ulnak]], and the northern [[the Barrens|Barrens]]. They are particularly cautious around the Varushkans, and seem to take special pains to hide their true numbers from the Imperials. One Navarr who encountered them drew parallels with the [[feni]] of the west - although these orcs are not interested in raiding their neighbours. They are by all accounts a peculiar bunch, even by the standards of the Ossium orcs. In some ways they are reminiscent of the [[Great Forest Orcs]], but with a much harsher "edge" to them. They speak of having a particular connection to the trees and insects, which they refuse to discuss in too much detail, but they do explain that if they leave the hidden groves where they abide, then none of their people will ever be able to cross the Howling Abyss and all will be condemned to oblivion. When the Druj ruled Ossium. their status was much closer to that of the Ketsov than the other subjects - the Druj mostly left them to their own devices as long as they did not step out of line and provided a certain number of warriors each year to fight alongside their armies.

After the initial contact, which was mostly handled by Imperial Orcs and Navarr, they proved happy to provide guides and even workers to the eastern vales in return for appropriate wages, and were even prepared to provide tithes - something they are used to doing for their hated masters. They are clearly covered by the Senate's declaration that the orcs of Ossium are foreigners, and so there is no legal impediment to trade with the sept. There is a limit to how much they are prepared to cooperate with the Empire, however. If they do too much, there would be risk of reprisals against their people who are still under the yoke of the Druj in the Forest of Ulnak, or who are still forced to serve the armies of the Mallum as scouts and assassins.

When Varushkan merchants reach out to them the main topic of conversation is the disposition of Farweald. As [[Blood_makes_noise#The_Treasure_of_the_Menrothat|discussed during the second meeting with the Empire]], the heart of the Menrothat lies in a region of forest in the northern [[the Barrens|Barrens]]. Dominated by the Druj for a very long time - even before the Barrens as a whole was under the control of the Mallum - the Menrothat have been barred from parts of the forest they see as their ancestral heartland. Now that the Empire has conquered the territory and defeated the Druj, the Menrothat would very much like to see their ancestral heartland returned to them. They have already made an agreement with the Imperial Orcs: in return for giving the Menrothat the region of Farweald, the Menrothat will give the Imperial orcs their greatest treasure - a single dose of black lotus - and will also share what they know of preparing and using it.

They are content for the moment to live in Ossium as guests of the Varushkan hosts, but more than anything else they want the forests of their homeland returned to them, so that they can live there in the manner of their ancestors. If the Varushkans were to facilitate that, then they would be happy to establish strong trade links with the nation that now dominates Ossium. Until then, however, they will continue to restrict their involvement to the services they are currently providing to the individual vales. Should any Varushkans wish to negotiate further, they can speak with elder Saroso Menrothat, via [[Call Winged Messenger|Winged Messenger]].

===Shrines at Orieb===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Eternal Shrine'''</td><td style="background-color: LightYellow;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>4 crowns</td><td>2 doses of vis</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 crowns</td><td>4 doses of vis</td></tr>
<tr><td>18 crowns</td><td>6 doses of vis</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Menrothat could assist the Varushkans in expanding the Palace of Orieb to include shrines'''
* '''Each shrine would need to have an eternal patron to function'''
* '''Up to six shrines could be added; but only one for each realm'''
* '''Each shrine would allow the title holder to purchase vis'''
There is one area, however, where the Menrothat are prepared to offer immediate assistance to the Varushkans. The [[Apothecary_of_Orieb#Palace_of_Orieb|Palace of Orieb]] was once home to two "shrines" that were used for ceremonies in which the ghulai of the Bone Serpent clan made offerings to their "spirit patrons" and in return received "treasure" - magical syrup and shards of frozen flame. Recreating the shrines seems to be relatively simple; a solid stone plinth and an effigy of mithril and weirwood that incorporated a bowl in which to place offerings and receive gifts. The [[Expedition_to_Orieb#Scorpion_and_Serpent|findings]] of Skywise Slu and Blackbeak Ussa mention ways that herbs and berries were used to venerate the statues in ways that caused the bowls to fill with [[vis]]. Sadly, experiments to see if the Varushkans can repeat these effects have resulted in cramps and fatigue rather than precious vis. Clearly any deal agreed by Zask Bonetwister had lapsed.

The Menrothat know the secret of drawing on the power of the Palace; their people were often forced to perform these acts for the Druj. They claim that the palace stands above a fallen star, that warps and changes the magical nature of the area. The Menrothat ancestors once used it as a place to speak with the eternals - such as at [[Cabalist_of_the_Hollow_Stone#Marshstand_Skerry|Marshstand Skerry]] - but the Druj took it and turned it into something else. If the Varushkans want to start drawing on the full power of the place, they will need to find eternals willing to act as patrons for the shrines - a maximum of one of each realm. Once such a deal was agreed, the eternal would need to be provided with a single ring of [[ilium]] to seal the deal and allow them to connect to the Palace. After this, the Apothecary would be able to start harvesting vis of that realm from the palace.

Anyone could theoretically pursue such deals but it would require the [[Apothecary of Orieb]] to agree to the deal, and if the Menrothat are to be believed it would always require offerings of some kind to secure the gifts the palace could offer. There was some worry that such deals could be considered [[Religious_crime#Idolatry|idolatry]] - and indeed they could still be judged by the Synod to be such - but the recent [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_146|mandate]] enacted by '''Amris Johan Merikovich''' has done much to allay those concerns. What is such propitiation if not bargaining with dark powers?

==Mission of Mercy==
* '''The Highborn visiting Varushka particularly question the virtue of allowing the Thule former slaves to starve'''
* '''The Highborn assembly may take action to offer aid to the orc underclass'''
Some of the [[Highguard|Highborn]] who visit Varushka and speak to the orcs there have a slightly different perspective on their experiences. The opportunity to see the [[Thule]] close-up, as something other than enemies. They are especially concerned about the plight of the former slaves; the fact the Dragons will not compromise to stop their people suffering causes some heated debates about virtue. In the end some of those who visit the north return convinced that it is more vital than ever before to reach out to the Thule underclass, not only to bring them the spiritual strength the Way can offer, but to help them secure the basic necessities the Dragons stubbornness and cruel tyranny is denying them.

{{Mandate|mandate=All that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it. We will not allow the former slaves of the Thule to suffer, no matter what the Dragons say. We send {named priest} with 50 doses of liao to urge unconquered, wayfarers, and grey pilgrims to travel north and deliver food, clothing, and aid to the former slaves of the Thule. We ask the benefactors to encourage and support this endeavour, so that those involved may claim the just rewards of their labour.|assembly=Highguard National Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, it will encourage those able to do so to travel in secret to areas controlled by the Thule, initially those regions that are part of Imperial territories. They would make contact with the former slaves and deliver food, clothes, blankets, and basic tools. Wherever possible they would provide teaching in essential skills such as literacy. While this mission of mercy would take precedence, there would also be opportunities to speak on the matter of virtue.

The mandate would create the opportunity for Highborn military units belonging to characters with the [[unconquered]] archetype to undertake the adventure ''Mission of Mercy'', found in the spy network dropdown during downtime. In place of the normal production of a military unit they would receive ''nothing''. The former slaves of the Thule have nothing to give. It is the expectation of the Highborn proposing the mission of mercy that the benefactors of Highguard who attend Anvil would seek out those who participated and reward them personally for their efforts. The Highborn egregores would be able to confirm whether someone had undertaken this action or not, and any unconquered who did would be able to approach the benefactors council with news of their work.

It's impossible to predict all the effects of this, but it would create likely lead to further opportunities once the Highborn had made contact with the Thule's former slaves. However the Dragons have been very clear that will not tolerate Imperial interference in their nation. At first, it would be very unlikely they would notice the actions of the Highborn but it is inevitable that they would eventually learn of it. This is likely to make them very angry... but while the peace treaty with the Thule specifies that raiding will not take place, there is no definition of raiding that includes "providing much needed food, clothing, and literacy for free."
==Tolerance and Acceptance==
* '''This mandate has continued to erode traditional Varushkan suspicion of orcs'''
Traditionally Varushka has had poor relations with orcs of all walks of life. Although every nation in the Empire save the Brass Coast employed slaves, they are the nation most associated in the popular consciousness with the enslavement of the orcs. The [[The_Orc_Rebellion|Orc Rebellion]] began here; the recently recognised exemplar of [[Ambition]] [[Known_exemplars#Thrace|Thrace]] was a Varushkan slave. The Varushkans were the first people forced to confront the necessity of using their armies against the escaped orcs, and the last to accept the decision of [[Emperor Ahraz]] to recognise them as a people in their own right.

It has been barely two generations since the end of the orc rebellion, and for a long time there were people in the nation who blamed their Imperial allies for disrupting the status quo. Times change, though sometimes they change slowly. The undercurrent of bigotry against orcs still lurks in some dark corners of some dark hearts in the nation, but this most recent mandate has brought home the fact that especially among the younger generation, the orcs are just another group of people. The Imperial Orcs are just another nation. The Thule are disliked because they hold land some Varushkans consider theirs, not because they are orcs. The National Assembly has been at the forefront of attacking the prejudice against orcs for some time now, and it seems they will continue to do so. Yet it is also becoming clear that open bigotry against orcs is no longer acceptable in the broader culture of Varushka.

Culling the threat

2023-07-20T07:31:52Z

RichardRaynor: /* Take the Fight to the Druj */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]
<ic>Naomi stared at the man studying his face. He looked surprisingly normal. Dressed in traditional Varushkan garb, nothing out of the ordinary there. His age was a little difficult to determine, but he was clearly past his prime. His facial features were strangely non-descript, little to mark him out, other than a tiny scar on his right cheek, that could almost have been a shaving cut it was so small. Convincing she thought to herself, he was totally convincing.

She could almost believe he was human.

The Varushkans had warned her about exactly that mistake. She ran through everything the cabalists had told her. Be polite and courteous, treat the Landgrave with respect and under no circumstances of any kind act like he was anything other than he appeared to be at any point. They'd been most emphatic on that point, warning her that she would invite disaster on everyone if she messed this up. She'd politely let them know that this was not the first time she'd engaged in diplomacy with something inhuman. They'd smiled and nodded at her and then repeated the warning again.

Best get down to business she thought. The quicker she got started, the quicker this would be done. "My colleagues tell me you have a proposal for us to consider?"

The man paused and acknowledged the question with a brief nod of his head. She waited for him to speak, but he said nothing. She had the most unnerving feeling that he was studying her. She coughed slightly to cover her nerves.

"Perhaps you would be kind enough to share it with me."

"Of course" he responded with the briefest glimmer of a smile, his voice surprisingly melodious. "My sovereign liege has become aware that your lands are troubled by an infestation of Orcs from the East. The Lords of Dream have sent their slaves to crawl through the veins of the Drown Bark Forest, like maggots feasting on an open wound. One of the Ushkan wise ones informs us that you are tasked with finding a way to wash this wound clean. I am here to offer the aid of my liege in this matter."

Naomi took a sip of water, to wet her mouth and carefully recalled what the cabalists had coached her to say. "On behalf of the Empty Throne I thank you for this gracious offer. Regrettably I am bereft of a way in which we might repay such kindness. Perhaps you could advise me how we might best demonstrate our deep gratitude to your liege for this generous act?"</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Under threat.png|align=left|caption=The [[Druj]] threaten to return to [[Ossium]] at any moment, with three of the seven regions at risk from a surprise attack by the [[orc|orcs]] of [[the Mallum]].|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
During the Spring Equinox, the [[Senator]] for [[Ossium]], '''Vesna Borkovna''' requested the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticator's Office]] be instructed to "''appraise an opportunity to remove the under threat quality from Echofell and the Drownbark Forest in Ossium''" The [[Imperial Senate]] [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Improving_Ossium|agreed]] to do so, but no specific prognosticator was selected. After due consideration the Imperial Auditor, Gerard La Salle selected [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue.27s_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to take charge of the project.

Three regions of Ossium are "[[Ossium#Under-threat|under-threat]] by Druj insurgents and guerrillas. Despite the best efforts of the Empire, the orcs of [[the Mallum]] maintain a presence in the regions of Echofell, Drownbark Forest and the [[Ossium#Webwood|Webwood]]. The latter [[Territory#Regions|region]] is under the control of the [[Thule]], having been [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|conceded]] to the northern [[orc|orcs]] as part of the [[Ratify treaty with Thule Winter 383YE|Winter treaty]] that secured their military aid in [[Sermersuaq]]. Presumably the Thule are discussing their own plans for rooting out the Druj presence in the northern woods; there is some speculation it might be connected to the "temple" of the [[Arhallogen|Spider King]] buried in its depths.

Each of the two regions under Imperial control represents its own challenges.

The trackless depths of the [[Ossium#Echofell|Echofell]] are home to a disturbing number of unpleasant insects and poisonous creatures that seem to enjoy feasting on human and orc blood. The recent burst of [[Children in bloom|Spring magic across the Empire]] has encouraged the growth of these awful creatures, and left the tangled depths of the forests even more difficult to navigate. The region has barely been explored by Varushkan settlers, with a few scattered vales along the western edge of the woods. The only real defences that the Echofell possessed were in the form of the Tower of the Scorpion, now rubble. The main challenge here is that the border is so wide, and the region so wild, that there seems to be no way to secure it against the Druj, and little chance of rooting out all the hidden encampments the orcs have established in the trackless depths.

The only major settlement in the [[Ossium#Drownbark Forest|Drownbark Forest]] is the small town that surrounds the [[Ossium#The_Palace_of_Orieb|Palace of Orieb]], where the [[Merchant-Boyar_of_the_Stinking_Market#Stinking_Market|Stinking Market]] now stands. Varushkan settlers have comparatively little experience dealing with the marshy terrain of the Drownbark Forest, and there are no other significant vales established here. The Drownbark Forest itself is as much marsh as woodland, a maze of shifting waterways, drifting islands, and ancient woodlands. The Druj are in their element, taking advantage of the wilderness to hide their camps, and to move around relatively easily. The sodden depths are also home to more dangerous creatures; [[marshwalkers]] for example who are likely to be roused by any significant construction here as well as the occasional [[Legendary_beasts#Hydra|hydra]] or even catoblepas. Rumours have also begun to spread of a horrible creature part-way between a spider, a crab, and an octopus that lairs somewhere in the depths of the forest and picks off small groups of travellers - some of the locals are concerned it might be a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereign]] or an agent of [[Dho'uala]].

==Take the Fight to the Druj==
* '''The root of the problem is the border with the Forest of Ulnak'''
* '''If the Forest of Ulnak were succesfully invaded the under threat quality would be permanently removed'''
Naomi is quick to lay out what is by far the most obvious way to resolve the problem. The reason the regions of eastern Ossium are threatened by the Druj is that they directly border [[the Mallum]]. Take away the border, take away the problem.

If the Empire invades the [[Forest of Ulnak]] with sufficient force to capture one or more neighbouring regions then the problem would be resolved. It would be impossible for the Druj to infiltrate Ossium from Ulnak if they needed to bring their armies through Imperial controlled regions in that territory. Moreover, it wouldn't be a temporary fix - any Druj partisans in Ossium who are cut-off would have to flee to Druj lands or risk being completely surrounded. Any that tried to remain could be mopped up relatively easily. The main problem is that such a force would be invading "blind". Despite the [[the Mallum|information provided]] by the [[Great Forest Orcs]], and that gathered by the brief [[383YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Hexwood|foray into the Forest of Ulnak]] a few years ago, the Empire has no idea how many regions might need to be conquered to secure the entire border. A [[spy network]] could be used to get an idea of the scale of the task, but that is a matter for the [[Imperial Senate]] or the [[Imperial Spymaster]].

Any invasion of the Forest of Ulnak would be a matter for the [[Imperial Military Council]], and Naomi leaves the required diplomacy to the people of Varushka, She is aware that both ''Fania Vessely-Vanek'' and her predecessor as [[Ambassador to Otkodov|Ambassador]] ''Yevgeni'' have discussed this matter with the Thule, who would surely also benefit from the eastern borders of Ossium being secured. Given the presence of an immense [[fortification]] somewhere in the territory, any invasion would be no "easy solution" - but it would work. Any region in Ossium that ceased to border a Druj controlled region in the Ulnak would permanently cease to be under threat.

==Securing Echofell==
* '''Echofell could be secured through fortification or diplomacy'''
The alternative to a full scale invasion is to look for way to secure the regions individually with a piece meal approach. Echofell was once the home of the Amber Scorpion clan of the Druj. The ruled the region from the Tower of the Scorpion and the first real engagement of the invasion took place here when Imperial forces besieged the tower during torrential rain. The tower was captured, but later destroyed during a Druj counter-attack.

The Empire had a way to secure Echofell - by rebuilding the Druj fortification as the Tower of the Manticore, but that option seemed to have been lost when the tower was destroyed by the Druj. Naomi has spoken with the original architect and confirmed that the original plan is still possible, but of course the entire fortification would have to be rebuilt. Naomi has also considered some diplomatic alternatives - there are two groups in the area who might be persuaded to take responsibility for the Echofell, but the cost would not be cheap.

===Tower of the Manticore===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:400px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Tower of the Manticore'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''[[Fortification]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Echofell, Ossium</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 wains of white granite, 40 wains of weirwood, 15 thrones, one year to construct</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 10 thrones a season; 5 Thrones a season while being built ''but see below''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Removes the ''under threat'' quality from Echofell. Allows Dawnish and Varushkan military units to take the ''Into the Twisted Woods'' adventure.</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time Limit:''' If the Tower of the Manticore is not commissioned by the end of the Autumn Equinox 385YE the opportunity is permanently lost</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A new Tower of the Manticore could be constructed deeper into the Echofell to provide a base of operations from which to drive out any Druj incursions'''
* '''It would require a commission, 80 wains of white granite, 40 wains of weirwood, 15 thrones in labour costs and take one year to construct'''
* '''It would also provide a place for adventurers to gather to explore the lands beyond the Empire's borders'''
During the 384YE Spring Equinox, veteran [[Dawn|Dawnish]] siege engineer ''Lise de Lionsgate'' presented a [[Beyond_this_dark_house#Tower_of_the_Manticore|proposal]] to rebuild the ruined Tower of the Scorpion as the Tower of the Manticore. She envisioned it not only as a defensive [[fortification]] to help secure the borders of Ossium. but as a permanent base of operations up on the borders of the Empire from which [[questing knight|questing knights]] and [[knight-errant|knights errant]] might adventure into the dark, unknown lands to the east and the north.

The original fortification has since been destroyed by the Druj, so the drawings created by the Lise are no longer valid, however the skilful architect is prepared to make one final stab at the problem. She reworks her plans to create a vision for a new Tower of the Manticore that would be better situated to push out the Druj infiltrators skulking through the Echofell. The cost to construct this new tower is 80 wains of white granite, 40 wains of weirwood, and 15 thrones, and would take one year to complete. It would create a special rank one [[fortification]] in Ossium, one inspired by Druj techniques to increase all casualties it dealt during a battle by half. It would also remove the ''under-threat'' quality from the Echofell. In addition, it would once again make the option to ''Seek Glory in the Twisted Woods'' available to [[military unit|military units]] keen to explore the unknown lands that lie outside the Empire's north-western borders.

This is a limited opportunity; it is ''only'' available until the end of the the Autumn Equinox. If the Tower is not commissioned, the passionate Lise has said she cannot endure further disappointment and will burn her notes and turn her back on Ossium for the foreseeable future.

====Dealing With the Threat====
* '''Druj aggression and the dangers of the deep forest make building the Tower of the Manticore an expensive proposition'''
* '''The Senate could pay for additional guards, or the military council could commit an army to the territory for as long as the fortification was being built'''

Building the fortification is not as straightforward as it was, however. The Druj are still in Echofell, and the woods are still hostile to settlers and builders alike. Large amounts of valuable materials would need to be moved into the area, and large numbers of labourers secured for the construction work. It would also require the aid of engineers able to make head or tail of Lise's plans. These caravans and workers would all need careful protection. While there are plenty of warriors to [[Military_unit#Adventure_in_Varushka|protect caravans using the roads]] from the attentions of monsters, defending the construction site from Druj and dangerous beasts is a different matter.

As such, from the point where the Senate commissioned the Tower of the Manticore, until project were completed, lapsed, or the commission was abrogated, an upkeep of 5 Thrones each season would be applied to the Senate. This would pay for mercenaries and sell-swords to protect the construction project from the dangers of the Echofell.

Alternatively, if an [[Imperial army]] were stationed in Ossium on a [[Army_orders#Defending|defending order]] other than [[Army_orders#Give Ground|Give Ground]], and given explicit orders to defend the construction site, the Senate would not be required to spend any money that season.

====The Dawnish Contingent====
* '''The Dawn national assembly could urge their people to help create the Tower of the Manticore'''

Naomi has spoken extensively with Lise and the rest of her house. Lionsgate is enthused about the opportunity presented by the Tower of the Manticore, and believe that if they were given a mild push by the troubadours, the knights of Dawn might share their enthusiasm. She believes that the [[Dawn]] national assembly could urge both the questers and errants of their nation, and her fellow engineers, to offer their support to their Varushkan neighbours. After discussion with Lise and her friends, the following mandate has been prepared.

{{Mandate|mandate=We have been glorious in victory, but the battle is not yet won. We send {named priest} with 25 doses of liao to encourage knights and witches to quest in Echofell. Where they spread fear, we will make flowers grow!|assembly=Dawn National Assembly}}
<div style="float:right; width: 550px; clear: right;"><box>'''Adventures in Ossium'''<br>These adventures are available to military units in Ossium. In each case the listed rewards are for a standard military unit; one that is enchanted or upgraded receives proportionately more.<br><br>

'''Secure the Echofell''': This [[adventure]] can be found on the independent action dropdown, and is available only to Dawnish characters, for as long as work proceeds on the Tower of the Manticore. A standard military unit will receive payment of 90 rings, and 5 random measures of forest materials, as a combination of payments from Varushkan employers and loot seized from the defeated Druj encampments.

'''Seek Glory in the Twisted Woods''': This [[adventure]] can be found on the independent action dropdown. It can only be taken by Dawnish or Varushkan characters. A basic military unit will receive 6 random herbs and 8 random forest resources from battling orcs, exploring the deep woods, poking around old ruins, and seeking out opportunities for glory - or in the case of the Varushkans, opportunities to raid the barbarians.

'''Train the Dreamers of the Dark Forest''': This [[adventure]] can be found on the independent action dropdown. It can only be taken by Varushkan or Highborn characters with a military unit if their national assembly passes the mandate. A basic military unit will receive 8 random herbs and 4 random forest resources from the grateful Dreamers as they are provided with spare weapons and armour and the training to use them effectively.
</box></div>
If this mandate is enacted and the Tower of the Manticore is commissioned, then many knights-errant, questing knights and war witches of Dawn will make their way north to Ossium to help protect construction efforts there. There would be no need for additional effort from the Senate or the Military Council. It would also create a new adventure that would last until the Tower was completed called ''Secure the Echofell'', available to any Dawnish military unit that would provide money and forest resources to anyone who undertook it in the form of payment from Varushkan traders, and loot from fighting in the deep woods.

However, until the Tower were completed, abandoned, or abrogated, no [[statement of principle]] that sought to move the glory-hunters of Dawn to undertake a similar action would result in a mandate.
===Reservation of Benefits===
* '''There are two factions who live in or near the Echofell who might be persuaded to take charge of the situation'''
The Varushkans are no strangers to the problems of deep woods, but they are much more experienced fighting [[Varushkan_Monster#Wolves|wolves]] and [[Thule]] than the cunning and stealthy Druj. There are however other people living in or near the Echofell who as much reason to be concerned about the Druj hiding in the depths of the forest. Naomi has made contact with two groups who could be convinced to drive root the Druj out of Echofell, but in both cases the proposal comes with some very serious risks or costs.

====The Dreamers of the Dark Forest====
* '''The Dreamers of the Dark Forest are prepared to drive the Druj out of Echofell if they were given weapons and armour and trained to fight with them'''
* '''The Imperial Senate would have to permit the act by using a Senate motion to authorise the supply of weapons and armour to the Dreamers'''
* '''If that happens then the Varushkans, the Highborn, or both nations, could provide the Dreamers with what they need'''
Amongst the remaining ''septs'' of orcs who have chosen not to relocate to [[Skarsind]] is a group that call themselves the Dreamers of the Dark Forest. It is possible they may be connected with the Great Forest Orcs, although they seem ignorant of any connection if one exists. This orc "sept" occupy parts of the Echofell near the Bonehives, and while they have little interest in working there they have a lot of interest in seeing the Druj driven out of the forest. The ''sept'' is small and insular, but thanks to a [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_145|recent mandate]], there has been some effort to make contact with them. After speaking with the leaders of the Dreamers, Naomi has discovered that they could be convinced to fight the Druj at their own game, if they had the means to do so.

The Dreamers have few if any weapons of war or experience in battle. They're eager to fight the Druj but lack the means or the training. The Highborn national assembly has reached out to support the people of Varushka as they treat with the orcs that share their wild nation with them. Naomi herself is from Highguard, and while discussing this project she contacts a number of [[unconquered]] of her acquaintance to discuss the issue with them. They point out that when the [[imperial Orcs]] joined the Empire, Highborn soldiers supported them with gifts of weapons and armour. They suggest that it might be possible to kill two birds with one stone; help protect Echofell and encourage good relations with the independent orcs in Ossium.

{{Mandate|mandate=Let us build up our fellows. We send {named priest} with 25 doses of liao to urge Highborn/Varushkan citizens to share what weapons and armour they can spare to arm the Dreamers of the Dark Forest. All that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it.|assembly=Highborn/Varushkan National Assembly}}

This mandate could be passed by Varushkan Assembly or the Highborn Assembly or both. If either nation enacts the mandate, it will urge their citizens to support the defence of Ossium by providing the Dreamers with any weapons and armour they can spare - as the Highborn once provided weapons and armour to the Imperial Orcs. For the next year, military units from that nation will be able to undertake the action to '''Train the Dreamers''' to train them how to use the new arms they have been given.

The risk with this approach is that it is impossible to determine what the long term effects of arming the Dreamers would be. Giving them weapons and armour should help to improve relations with them, it will certainly make them more positively inclined to either, or both, nations if they are supported in this way. But the sept have no interest at all in becoming Imperial citizens or in adopting the Way. They have their own religion, their own leaders and their own laws.

They also have their own enemies and their own ambitions. They hate the Druj, but it is clear they don't think much better of Thule and they also loathe the Menrothat. If the Empire arm the Dreamers, they will definitely use those weapons on the Druj, but it's not certain they will stop there.

They could also be a nuisance for the Empire. There aren't enough Dreamers to form an army, they could never muster that kind of strength. But there would be enough of them to seize the region if they were minded to do it. At that point, given how well they know the area, it would require an Imperial army to dislodge them.

Since the Empire is not at war with the Dreamers, it is not technically illegal to arm them. However if relations with the Dreamers sour and the Empire ends up fighting them, then they will use those weapons to kill Imperial citizens. As a result, those in a position to do so have asked the the Imperial Senate to pass a motion authorising the supply of weapons and armour to the Dreamers. That way the decision can be taken by those best placed to assess the risks.

If the Imperial Senate pass a motion declaring it is acceptable to arm the Dreamers and either Varushka or Highborn chose to arm them then the region would no longer be under threat. The mandates can be passed at any time before the end of the Autumn equinox, but they will not have any effect unless or until the Imperial Senate takes responsibility for the decision to arm the Dreamers

====The Orcs of the Frozen North====
* '''The Thule are prepared to deal with the Druj in Webwood and Echofell if the region is ceded to them'''
The largest power in Ossium beside the Empire is the Thule, so naturally Naomi has made contact with them to see if they could offer aid in dealing with the problem. The Thule's position in Ossium has always been complex, they were part of an alliance with the Empire to help liberate Ossium from Druj rule - but they have been reluctant to anger the Druj too greatly and have refused to engage in further attacks on them. The Webwood, which is also under threat, is under Thule control but up to now, they seem to prefer to tolerate this status quo rather than risk moving against the Druj in force.

Sadly they are not prepared to provide assistance, claiming that the Empire has recently cooled on collaboration with the Thule, and that they are reconsidering their options as a result. However the Thule do offer to "deal with the Druj in Echofell and Webwood", if the Empire cedes Echofell to them. This comes as something of a surprise, since previously they have been eager to avoid sharing a border with the Druj. Perhaps gaining control of the Webwood has changed their calculations. In any case, they are at pains to stress that the Empire would have to formally cede the region to the Thule and they would require the Imperial Senate motion make explicit that this concession is permanent and represents the Empire giving up all claim to the land. There must be no talk of giving it away and then demanding it back again as soon as the Thule have dealt with the Druj.

If the Empire cedes Echofell to the Thule, they will move to claim the region - and in doing so they will "deal with" the Druj in both Echofell and Webwood. They refuse to say how they will end the threat of the Druj, they will refuse to say anything other than that it will be done. They are clear that if this happens, then both Echofell and Webwood will be clear of Druj influence. The only region that the Empire would have to worry about would be the Drownbark Forest.

Such an action would be problematic, it would make reduce Imperial control of the territory, making it very vulnerable if the Druj did attack. It would also anger [[Cathan Canae]], an eternal ally of the Empire who has made clear that she does not wish to see her ally cede any more territory to their enemies. Patient negotiation with the '''Immovable One''' might be able to mitigate this problem, but as ever with the Summer realm, nothing is guaranteed.

==Securing the Drownbark Forest==
* '''Drownbark Forest could be secured through magic or diplomacy'''
The Drownbark Forest is also threatened by the Druj, scores of whom are known to be lurking in the cold wet marshes that reach down to the Barren Sea. The land here was once claimed by the Bone Serpent Clan, one of the powerful clans of the Druj. The miserable town of Orieb was the seat of their power in the region. Many of the leaders of Bone Serpents were never accounted for during the invasion and the Burul Tepel and their assistants are believed to be responsible for the Druj insurgents skulking in the stinking fens.

===Dripping Echoes===
* '''Dripping Echoes of the Fen could be used to nullify the activities of the Druj infiltrators each season'''
* '''Conditions in the marshes mean that the ritual could be made permanent using ilium for a third of the normal cost'''
* '''Making the ritual permanent runs the risk of angering whichever eternal's power the ritual calls on'''
* '''The Conclave could have the Dean of the Lyceum or the Order of the Unfettered Mind try to find out which eternal is backing which night rituals'''
In theory it might be possible to fortify the Drownbark Forest in the traditional way, using white granite. The problem is that the region is exceptionally marshy, and making it a [[Commission#Marshes|poor place]] to undertake any significant construction. Some parts of the region are dry and firm underfoot - you could raise a castle here. But unsurprisingly those spots are furthest from the deep marshes, so a fortification wouldn't be enough by itself to drive the Druj out.

What is needed to remove the threat of the Druj is a way to create a fortification in the marshes themselves. By good fortune, Imperial Lore includes a powerful ritual [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] that creates a fortification. Naomi has discussed the ritual with her colleague, the Varushkan cabalist, [[Appraisal#Lutomysla_Niegoslava|Lutomysla Niegoslava]]. They have confirmed that the [[Night magic]] would work to suppress the effects of "under threat" for as long as the ritual was in place. The ritual would also be fully effective at defending the region and territory as normal if it were attacked, so it would be doubly effective.

Of course it's a powerful ritual, magnitude 100, which makes it expensive to cast, a minimum of 50 mana crystals are required. The effects would only last a single season, it could be cast each summit, but the Druj threat in the Drownbark Forest would only be neutralised for as long as the ritual was in place. However Lutomysla claims to have studied the marshes in Ossium and she believes that there are significant quantities of [[ilium]] buried beneath the mud and waters of the murky fens. The prognosticator has calculated that it would be possible to make the ritual permanent using only a third of the normal amount of ilium as a result.

Sadly that is still 100 rings of ilium, but it might be cheaper than using white granite and it could be quicker, since the entire work could be completed with a single ritual performed at Anvil. And the Empire would save money in the long run, since the ritual would require no upkeep from the Imperial treasury.

The other problem with this approach is that it risks angering whichever [[eternal]] the ritual calls on. Rituals that summon forces from another realm, soldiers or castles, require the assistance of an eternal. The things they summon always belong to ''someone'' who must agree to be bound by the terms of the ritual. Making a ritual like [[Knights of Glory]] or [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] permanent risks going beyond the details of what was originally agreed. Since it permanently robs the eternal of those forces, any magicians who attempt it would be wise to get permission first. It's not essential - you can ask for forgiveness rather than permission, but then you must pay the price of angering the eternal.

Unfortunately nobody knows whose power Dripping Echoes of the Fen calls upon. This is not uncommon - there are several rituals in Imperial Lore that must call on an eternal's power according to the laws of magic, but for which no details are now available. Some of the rituals in Imperial Lore are very old indeed, so it is possible that the details have been lost to time. It's also possible nobody ever knew - there are instances where an eternal will permit a ritual to call on their power without the magicians who created the ritual ever knowing. Such cases are rare - but not unknown.

The Empire could try diplomacy with every Night eternal, but a more practical solution might be to comb through the records of Night rituals in the [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#The_Lyceum|Lyceum]]. There are two practical ways that could be done - the Conclave could use a [[declaration]] of [[concord]] to invite the [[Conclave order|order]] of the [[Unfettered Mind]] to look into the matter. If that happened the Order would publish their findings, letting everyone know what they had discovered about Dripping Echoes of the Fen and any other night rituals they come across. Alternatively the Dean of the Lyceum could use their declaration of [[Imperial lore]] to ask those magicians who work there and look to the Dean for leadership to look into the matter. If that happened, the magicians would furnish the Dean with a private report of their findings.

===Drowning Trees===
* '''The Landgrave of the Still Deeps has offered the services of his liege in removing the Druj partisans in Drownbark Forest'''
* '''In return for their aid, his liege demands the Senate allow their servants to drown much of the forest'''
* '''The resulting flooding would destroy the Palace of Orieb and give Nearweald the marsh quality'''
Naomi of Virtue's Rest is deeply uncomfortable with the concept of making deals with sovereigns and the monsters that haunt the dark places of [[Varushka]]. Still, she is focused on pursuing the most diplomatic avenues when it comes to solving problems, and the Varushkan National Assembly did vote to enact the mandate [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_146|encouraging Varushkans]] to bargain with sovereigns and other inhuman entities. Her meeting with the self-professed '''Landgrave of the Still Deeps''', within the walls of Orieb is short and to the point. The Landgrave has the demeanour of a quiet old man, but they claim that their liege has no love for the Druj and would be prepared to help the people of Ossium deal with them... for a price.

The Empire would need to grant the Landgrave's sovereign permission to unleash the ''Castors of Wood and Water'' on the woods of Drownbark Forest. What this involves is not entirely clear, but according to the Landgrave much of the woods would be submerged beneath the waters of the Barren Sea as a result. Based on the description provided, the Civil Service calculate the region would no longer be forested. The Landgrave is clear that the [[Apothecary_of_Orieb#Palace_of_Orieb|Palace of Orieb]], would sink beneath the oncoming waters and be destroyed, but they claim that the [[Merchant-Boyar_of_the_Stinking_Market#Stinking_Market|Stinking Market]] would be able to move to avoid the deluge and [[Cabalist_of_the_Hollow_Stone#Marshstand_Skerry|Marshstand Skerry]] should be untouched.

The flooding would not be entirely confined to the Drownbark Forest. Nearweald would also be affected and would gain the marsh quality making it harder for the Empire to commission things in that region.

In return, the Landgrave's sovereign will take the Druj from their hiding places in the marshes of the Drownbark Forest. Whatever happens after that, the Landgrave promises that those orcs who sink beneath the waters of the marshes will not return to the Drownbark Forest. Any Druj that try to infiltrate the region subsequently will suffer the same fate. The region would never be under threat from the Druj again.

Legally, such an action would require the authorisation of the Imperial Senate, however the Landgrave is not an Imperial citizen and does not seem unduly concerned with Imperial law. They would accept a Senate motion indicating acquiescence to the deal, but they would also be happy to accept an appropriately worded statement of principle issued by the Varushkan or General Assembly. If either happens, then the Landgrave will know, and they will inform their sovereign who will complete their side of the bargain.

The Landgrave refuses to name their sovereign, saying only that those who know will know.

===Shadow's waiting (Conjunction)===
* '''A force of Druj are moving to destroy Marshstand Skerry'''
* '''The Sentinel Gate will open at 21:00 on Saturday to the Broken Clearing, Drownbark Forest, Ossium'''
* '''The ''Cabalist of the Hollow Stone'' is responsible for stopping the Druj'''
Whilst the knights and yeofolk of the [[Gryphon's Pride]] were focused on setting up camps and resupplying in [[Ossium#Bittershore|Bittershore]] the schlacta of the [[Northern Eagle]] were spread across the territory; resting in vales and outpost to take advantage of the [[Varushka_military_concerns#Army_Orders|hospitality of the boyars]] of the Ossium. It was the inhabitants of one of these settlements that first spotted the force of orcs moving through the trees. The assumption by the residents of the outpost was that it was simply a group of Ossian orcs going about their business and it was only the keen eyes of ''Nadezhda Mutimirovna'' that picked out the cadre of Winter heralds accompanying them. Though it was only a small group of soldiers resting in the same outpost as ''Nadezhda'' they were able to follow along for long enough to uncover that the orcs were Druj, the heralds were those of Surut, and their ultimate destination was [[Cabalist_of_the_Hollow_Stone#Marshstand_Skerry|Marshstand Skerry]]. If the Druj are not stopped then they will destroy the stone which will drastically reduce the output of the sinecure.

The Druj force is made up of warriors from across the [[Arkad]] along with a number of heralds of [[Surut|the Burnt Steward]]. Given that this is a direct threat to Marshtand Skerry it is the responsibility of the [[Cabalist of the Hollow Stone]]; '''Lutobor Branislavovich Glinka''', to stop the Druj.

Concord and accord

2023-07-19T18:57:45Z

RichardRaynor: /* Stepping Back */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"I suppose... the ideal set-up would be for the Conclave to have the power of veto over a Throne appointment," interjected Allisto.

The other four stared at him with an assortment of expressions. They'd been discussing the news from Anvil, and the recent Declarations of Concord. The topic had strayed to the Throne and what its role actually was in Conclave now. Allisto had listened carefully, poured himself another glass of wine, and decided he should share his own thoughts on the matter. As his first foray into having a political opinion, it could be going better.

"It's just..." He paused, reordering his thoughts, and then soldiered bravely on despite the fact Jacern was trying to catch his eye while shaking her head vigorously. "Well obviously the Synod has the power to say "no" to a Throne, and given that the Conclave is just as important it stands to reason..."

"It's a completely different matter, and you clearly know nothing," interrupted Incantio. "The Synod gets a veto because it's a Constitutional vote, not because it's a motion to appoint a Throne."

Allisto ducked his head and blushed beetroot red. But something inside him refused to back down from Incantio. Not this time.

"Well then it's obvious," he said, looking in Incantio's direction but not actually looking ''at'' him. "The Conclave should ''also'' have the power of the veto over Constitutional matters. It could be a new form of declaration."

"Declaration of Fucking with the Senate?" Joked Patricia. She rarely passed up an opportunity to needle Incantio, and made few bones about the fact she considered him a pompous ass.

"Don't encourage him!" Incantio snapped. "We're trying to have a serious discussion here about the implications of the Imperial Magus'..."

"Why ''doesn't'' the Conclave have a veto, though?" asked Patricia mildly, eyes twinkling at Incantio's growing frustration. "It's like the Constitution was written by people who didn't think magicians were as important as priests. One might argue."

Incantio opened his mouth to rebut his colleague's point when he was again interrupted, this time by Barto, who was by this time several glasses ahead of the rest of the coterie.

"I've got a great idea!" he slurred, banging his fist on the table. "Let's get the Senate to make the Throne a Conclave position! We can appoint it by Candidacy! All it'd need was a simple major... majority! And best of all the Synod couldn't veto! That'd show them!"

He burped thunderously, and sank back into his seat, the triumphant expression of a drunk who thinks he's said something insightful on his round, red face.

"Paragons preserve us!" Incantio lost his grip on his temper at last. "All I wanted was an evening of political discourse. Something to take our minds off this damn Vyig business and all those militia everywhere! Was that too much to ask? A little salon like they have in Holberg, with some nice wine, and some cake, and... But no! No! I have to be stuck in a coven with the most... with the stupidest.. with the biggest... I give up! I really do!"

He threw his papers on the table and stormed out. Even Patricia had to admit it was a finely-done flounce. The other three sat in slightly guilty silence, listening to Barto snore. After a moment or two, Jacern picked up the discarded notes and skimmed through them.

"Uh-oh," she said after a few minutes. "The Celestial Arch apparently want people to come and talk to them about magical crime. That... bodes poorly I think?"

"It depends," said Patricia laconically. "There's a very small chance they might come down in favour of it, and that'd make our lives significantly easier!"</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Emperor Dave.jpg|align=left|caption=Any Imperial citizen can aspire to [[the Throne]] - the most significant and influential Imperial title in the Empire.|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
The Summer Solstice marks the second anniversary of the [[Crowned_in_rose_and_heather#Constitutional_Ruling|disappearance]] of [[Empress Lisabetta|Imperatrix Lisabetta]] and her [[Known_exemplars#Juha_the_Cave_Spider|husband]]. Over the last several seasons there have been multiple votes intended to appoint a new [[the Throne|Throne]]. [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#The_Throne|The most recent]] election saw four candidates stand: '''Bohemond De Rondell''', '''Chiara i Zayden i Riqueza''', '''Sir Claude Vyse Videre''', and '''Veikko Bondforger''', but so far there has been no winner. None of the candidates received the [[Senate_motion#Constitutional_Vote|two-thirds of available votes]] required to [[The_Throne#Appointment|claim the title]]. Presumably the search will continue.

While the actual job of appointing a Throne lies with the [[Imperial Senate]], the magicians of the [[Imperial Conclave|Conclave]] are also taking note. There appears to be a desire among the orders to ensure that whoever is appointed has the best interests of Imperial magicians at heart. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there has been no interest in the [[I_knew_you_were_trouble#Sorin|Gauntlet of Fangs]] offered by the [[eternal]] [[Sorin]]. However during the Spring Equinox, a [[Declaration]] of [[Concord]] raised by the [[Imperial Magus]] stated unequivocally that anyone who wishes to follow the [[Empress Lisabetta|Imperatrix]] to the highest office in the land must engage with the Conclave. The [[Conclave order|orders]] supported that declaration, and in due course it was [[Concord#Resolution|shared with every Imperial magician]], prompting considerable discussion.

{{Concord|type=Concord|declaration=The Empress should be fully engaged with all bodies of state. The Throne is the vital link to draw together Senate, Conclave, Synod, Bourse and the Military Council. As such, any candidates who have not made the effort to engage with Conclave should not be supported.|by=Æsa Sigeling, Imperial Magus|when=Spring Equinox 385YE}}
==Of One Accord==
* '''The magicians of the Empire agree that the next Throne should show they are prepared to work with the Imperial Conclave'''
The declaration by '''Æsa Sigeling''' states that the Throne "''should be fully engaged with all bodies of state''" and that "'' any candidates who have not made the effort to engage with Conclave should not be supported''". The response has been a quiet, but almost universal, agreement among Imperial magicians. The Conclave is a body of state equal to the Senate, [[Imperial Synod|Synod]], and [[Imperial Military Council|Military Council]] in significance. It [[Imperial_Conclave|plays an important role]] in the politics of the Empire, represents and serves the interests of Imperial wizards, and is worthy of respect accordingly. There are magicians in all walks of life who look to the Conclave for guidance in matters related to magic of all kinds - and while nobody expects that the Throne must ''be'' a magician they should publicly acknowledge the importance of Conclave.

In 383YE, at the Autumn Equinox, the Conclave endorsed a raft of candidates, but of those they named, only [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Endorse_Chiara_i_Zayden_i_Riqueza|Chiara i Zayden i Riqueza]] still appears to be in the running (if the others were to resume their campaign for the Throne, they would also be assumed to be approved). At the most recent summit Conclave had the opportunity to question one of the other candidates, [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Question_Claude_Videre|Sir Claude Vyse Videre]], and by voting through the Concord has provided their [[#Approval|approval]] as a result. The other candidates appear to have not yet engaged with the Conclave, which may be what has provoked the declaration by the Imperial Magus.

In both cases, the declarations fall short of a full-throated endorsement, but the Conclave has issued clear approval of their candidacy. Which raise the rather obvious question of what the implications might have been if they had not felt that way? And what of those candidates who have not taken the time to speak with Conclave? The clear inference of the Magus' declaration is that magicians should not support any candidate who has ''not made the effort to engage with Conclave.''

==Engaging with the Conclave==
* '''Anyone appointed to the Throne who does not have the prior approval of the Conclave will likewise lack the support of the Empire's magicians'''
* '''Conclave can use a suitably worded Declaration of Concord to approve, endorse or denounce a candidate'''
* '''A declaration in favour or against will not have any effect if passed after a candidate attains the Throne'''
Æsa Sigeling, it seems, has kicked a hornet's nest. The question of the Conclave's role in the appointment of a Throne is openly discussed by magicians across the Empire. Due the response to Æsa Sigeling's declaration, going forward, the assumption of the Empire's magicians will be that anyone appointed to the Throne does not have the support of the Conclave, unless it has been explicitly given.

As a result, the assumption of many Imperial magicians will be that if a Throne is appointed without any expression of opinion from the Conclave, they do not have their support. As a result, Imperial magicians will be less likely to listen to the Throne when they [[The Throne#Address the Empire|speak to the Empire]], disinclined to support their agenda, and suspicious of the Senate's attitudes toward the Conclave.

The Imperial Magus' declaration calls for candidates to proactively engage with the Conclave as part of their campaign. Attempts to retroactively express support will be seen by some as mere political nicety - any Declaration of Concord passed after a candidate attains the Throne will not have any effect.

The Conclave can change these views with a suitably worded Declaration of Concord to indicate their approval, endorsement or denunciation of a candidate.
{{Concord|type=Concord|declaration=That the Conclave endorse Chiara i Zayden i Riqueza as a candidate for the throne.|by=Chiara i Zayden i Riqueza|when=Autumn Equinox 383YE}}
{{Concord|type=Concord|declaration=That Conclave has had opportunity to question potential Throne Claude Videre and determined that they are a suitable potential candidate for the Throne in the eyes of the Conclave.|by=Claude Videre, Arbiter of the Rogue Declaration|when=Winter Solstice 384YE}}
===Support===
* '''Conclave can use a Declaration of Concord to demonstrate their support of a single candidate for Throne'''
* '''Any number of candidates can enjoy the support of the Conclave at once'''
* '''A number of citizens enjoy the current support of the Conclave'''

The Conclave could show their approval for a named Throne candidate with a clearly worded Declaration of Concord. The Declaration should include wording to the effect that "Conclave approves the candidacy of (named candidate)" to avoid any doubt about the Conclave's intent. If such a Declaration is upheld, it will have no direct influence on the political machinery needed to elect the Throne - that is the business of the Senate.

What it will do however is let the magicians of the Empire know that the candidate is considered engaged with the Conclave, and trusted to treat fairly with that body of state. If one of those candidates eventually claims the Throne, the wording of the Conclave's declaration will go a long way toward determining the initial attitudes of Imperial magicians towards their reign. Approval will ensure that there will be no negative repercussions if that citizen ascends to the Throne next.

Obviously the Conclave may demonstrate its approval for any or all Throne candidates; indeed Imperial magicians expect as much. If one of those candidates eventually claims the Throne, the wording of the Conclave's declaration will go a long way toward determining the initial attitudes of Imperial magicians towards their reign.

The Conclave have passed declarations of concord expressing support for '''Brendan Brackensong''', '''Chiara i Zayden i Riqueza''', '''Skywise Fal''', '''Sir Claude Vyse Videre''', '''Yulia Kasimirova Voronov''' and '''Vincente i Zayden i Guerra'''.

===Preference===
* '''Conclave can use a Declaration of Concord to publicly throw their support behind a ''single'' candidate'''
* '''Only a single candidate can be the preferred candidate of the Conclave at one time'''
* '''No citizen is currently the preferred candidate of the Conclave'''

A number of magicians have pointed out that the the Conclave could go further than the Imperial Magus has suggested if they were so inclined. They could use a clearly worded Declaration of Concord.to indicate their preferance for a single named candidate for the Throne. The Declaration should include wording to the effect that "Conclave prefers the candidacy of (named candidate) above all other candidates" to avoid any doubt about the Conclave's intent.

Like an expression of support, expressing their preference would not affect the legal process of electing a Throne. However it would indicate a clear choice for one candidate above all others. The candidate would gain the the support of the Conclave by default, but more than that, magicians across the Empire would look forward to their accession if they were enthroned by the Senate. If the expression of preference was an emphatic positive statement extolling the virtues of the candidate, it would lead to unexpected support, and [[opportunity|opportunities]] in the event that the candidate were successful.

Only one citizen can sit the Throne, so it is not possible for the Conclave to endorse more than one candidate for the title. If the Conclave passes a second Declaration of Concord in preference for a candidate, then any previously expression of preference would no longer provide additional benefits beyond indicating the Conclave's support.

===Denunciation===
* '''Conclave could use a Declaration of Concord to indicate that one or more candidate is unacceptable to the Conclave'''

Alternatively, the Conclave may denounce a Throne candidate, again using a clearly worded Declaration of Concord. The Declaration should include wording to the effect that "Conclave denounces (named candidate), their candidacy is unacceptable to the Conclave'' to avoid any doubt about the Conclave's intent.

In this case, if that candidate then goes on to be appointed as Throne, the initial attitude of a significant number of Imperial magicians towards their reign will be negative and actively hostile. Responses will vary, those from the same nation as the Throne are the least likely to see them in a negative light. But Imperial magicians will start from the default assumption that the Throne cannot be trusted to support the Conclave, and does not have the interests of Imperial magicians at heart. This negative perception will also extend to any [[Imperial title]] appointed by the Throne through their [[The_Throne#Declaration of Candidacy|Declaration of Candidacy]]. Furthermore, the fact that the Senate has ignored the expressed will of the Conclave in this manner will foster a perception that Senators do not take the Conclave seriously. potentially reducing cooperation from Imperial magicians.

The Conclave could denounce more than one candidate for the Throne if they so chose. Equally they could change their mind later - a subsequent Declaration of Concord approving a candidate, would replace an earlier denunciation (and vice versa). However any subsequent endorsement of a a candidate who have been denounced would fail to provide meaningful benefits in the event that they won. Too many magicians would remember the earlier denunciation, there might not be any hostility to their reign but there would be too much lingering suspicion for any enthusiasm to catch.

==Stepping Back==
* '''The Conclave might choose to step back from its earlier decision'''
* '''If they did, declarations of Concord related to political matters would be much less likely to create an effect'''
Not every Imperial magician has responded positively to the Imperial Magus' declaration. Some believe that it is not the Conclave's business who the Senate chooses to appoint as Throne. Others argue that it is the Synod, not the Conclave, that should assess the fitness of the Throne to lead. There are also some who argue that the Conclave risks sowing dissent, undermining the key power of the Throne Æsa Sigeling identifies - that of drawing together and uniting the five houses of power. There is also the serious risk that they might do so through inaction rather than intent. These voices are in the minority, but they are still quite vocal.

A second Concord could be used to step back from the Imperial Magus' declaration. It would need to state unequivocally that Conclave should in fact ''not'' participate in the appointment of a Throne, and that Imperial magicians should look to the Senate alone on this matter. If such a declaration were passed, then the [[#Approval|approval]] or [[#Disapproval|disapproval]] of the Conclave would be irrelevant. Further attempts to intervene in or influence the Throne election would have no effect, at least until after the reign of the next Throne concluded. Passing such a Concord, however, would significantly undermine the power of the Declaration of Concord, and the Imperial Magus in particular. For the next year after such a Declaration was passed, Concords related to political matters would be much less likely to create a noticeable effect. Furthermore, a Declaration of Concord raised by the Imperial Magus would be very unlikely to create an effect regardless of the matters addressed.

This ability to "step back" remains available to the Conclave until the Imperial Senate next appoints a Throne, after which it will become irrelevant.

==A Beacon to Her People==
* '''Some magicians suggest that Imperial magicians could influence the Throne by becoming more engaged in the political arena'''
One other faction of Imperial magicians points out that there is another way to ensure that the Throne understands how Conclave works, respects the [[Conclave order|orders]], and understands the importance of the work done by Imperial magicians. Anyone with the power of [[Senate_motion#Proposal|proposal]] can present a candidate for Throne when an election is called - meaning in practice any [[Senator]] and the [[Conscience of the Senate]] can endorse someone. There are over thirty Senators, but only four candidates. So, surely, any citizen who feels that the Throne must respect Conclave and support Imperial magicians would be better served standing as a candidate themselves? The more politically savvy among this faction point out that the Imperatrix herself did not participate in the early rounds of voting during the last search for a Throne, and still went on to win the crown.

Even if one does not intend to stand oneself, the decision of who gets the Imperial Crown (now that it is [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#License:_Imperial_Crown|definitely not being destroyed]]) is made by the Senate, and the Senators are ultimately elected by and represent the people of their nation. Conclave might influence the appointment of the Throne by encouraging its members to actively lobby their senators to support the candidate who will be best for them, and for the magicians of the Empire.

Synod

2023-07-11T07:49:05Z

RichardRaynor: /* Participation */ sp

<ic>Reward the Virtuous; Punish the Wicked</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bishop Oberon.jpg|title=The Imperial Synod is a place of politics, as well as a bastion of faith.|caption=The Imperial Synod has the power to reward the virtuous and punish the wicked.|align=left|width=450}}
==Overview==
The Imperial Synod exists to safeguard the soul of the Empire, protecting it from dangers and corrupting influences, whilst nurturing and promoting virtue wherever it flourishes. It provides a balance on the power of the [[Imperial Senate]] and [[The Throne]] and has the power to reward the virtuous and punish the wicked. It also controls the supply of [[liao#True Liao|true liao]] which grants access to past life visions.

The Secretary General of the Civil Service has written a short pamphlet outlining how to participate in the Synod, which can be found [https://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/0/0f/Synod_Participation_Guide.pdf here]. Copies of this pamphlet are also available in the Hub during events.

==Role within the Empire==
The Synod is charged with overseeing the spiritual well-being of the Empire - ensuring the virtue of its citizens and in particular those who lead them. Its remit includes being aware of all the official business of the Empire. Members of the Synod are permitted to sit in while any Imperial meetings are being convened, although they are not automatically able to pry into the private affairs of citizens. The purpose is to ensure that virtue is enshrined in all the most important decisions taken by Imperial citizens.

To allow the Synod to perform its role, it may act to [[veto]] motions passed by the Senate - or to [[revocation|revoke]] individuals who hold important positions in the Senate or the [[Imperial Military Council|Military Council]]. The Synod's most feared punishment is to [[writ of Excommunication|excommunicate]] a citizen, allowing the ceremonial rite of excommunication to be performed on the accused and stripping them of their right to hold any Imperial title.

The Synod is also granted the power to dispense the majority of the [[liao#True Liao|true liao]] produced by the Empire each season as well as being charged with maintaining Imperial doctrine, providing guidance to the faithful through rulings on metaphysical and spiritual issues.

==History==
The creation of the Imperial Synod was a crucial part of the formation of the Empire. While the Empress and many of her Highborn supporters favoured a theocratic model of government for the Empire, they were unable to convince everyone of the wisdom of this approach. The compromise was to vest legal power in the Senate - but to create the Synod to watch over the Senate and ensure it remained a virtuous house. When it became clear that the Military Council would act independently of the Senate, the Highborn were able to successfully argue that the Synod's remit should also cover the generals.

The notable exception to the powers of the Synod are the Bourse and the Conclave. Titles appointed by either of these two houses may not be revoked, nor are their decisions subject to veto. The exclusion of the Bourse was the result of a long and bitter battle between [[Emperor Giovanni|Giovanni of Tassato (later Emperor Giovanni)]] and his followers and the Highborn. Giovanni was insistent that the Bourse must be completely free from political interference and would brook no compromise, demanding that the independence of the Bourse be enshrined in the Imperial Constitution.

Giovanni later became Emperor, and was instrumental in courting the Urizeni, convincing them to join the Empire peacefully. The exclusion of the Conclave from oversight by the Synod likely reflects Giovanni's political views as much as it did the demands of the magicians of the time.

During the Spring Equinox 383YE the [[Imperial Senate]] voted to [[384YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_membership_of_virtue_assemblies|change]] how membership of the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Virtue assemblies]] was determined. This represents one of the most significant changes to the way the Synod operates since the reign of [[Empress Varkula]]. The change was [[Making_your_mind_up|proposed]] initially as a way to allow the priests of the [[Imperial Orcs]] to more fully participate in the Imperial Synod, by moving membership of the Virtue assemblies away from [[dedication]] and toward the virtues a priest actually [[Congregation#Downtime Options|preached]].

==Sessions==
The civil service do not arrange any formal meetings or sessions for the members of the Synod. Rather the Synod acts by passing (or rejecting) judgements that have been raised by members of the Synod. When a judgement is submitted to the civil service it is raised onto the walls of the hub so that it may be scrutinised by any citizen. Eligible members of the Synod may then vote for (or against) the judgement at any point until voting closes. Voting is conducted in public and any citizen may view the records to see how many votes a judgement has gathered and who has supported or opposed it.

At set times during the summit, voting closes to allow the civil service to tally the votes cast for every judgement that is due to end then. A judgement must receive at least four hours of scrutiny, unless there are sufficient members of the Synod physically present to immediately determine the outcome of the judgement.

This approach ensures that members of the Synod can have sufficient time to examine a judgement, discussing it with their peers, and considering the ramifications. It also means that all members of the Synod who attend Anvil can vote on judgements raised, regardless of how many are present.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Angelo3.jpg|align=right|width=250}}

==Participation==
Each citizen who has been responsible for the running of a [[congregation|congregation]] in the season preceding the summit is automatically a member of the Synod. This makes them eligible to raise one [[judgement]] per summit and to vote on judgements raised by other Synod members. Votes are based on the size of the [[congregation]] - the larger the flock that a priest tends to, the more votes they receive. The founders of the Empire adopted this approach to ensure that the decisions of the Synod best reflected the wishes of the citizens of the Empire.

A handful of Imperial titles also confer votes in the Imperial Synod - based on the size of the congregation associated with the position. Any citizen who holds such a title is automatically considered to be a member of the Synod. Any votes afforded by the title are in addition to those they are due from their congregation if any.

Participation in the Synod is divided into a number of different [[assembly|assemblies]]:

* ''General Assembly'', consisting of all Synod Priests
* ''National Assemblies'', consisting of all Synod Priests from a single nation. There are ten National Assemblies, and a given priest is automatically a member of one of them.
* ''Virtue Assemblies'', consisting of all Synod priests who share the same dedication, or lack of. There are eight Virtue Assemblies (one for each of the seven virtues, and the assembly of the Way). A given priest is a member of one Virtue Assembly initially based on their [[dedication]], but with the option to change it through [[Congregation#Downtime Options|preaching]] between summits.
* ''Assembly of Nine'', consisting of the eight [[Cardinal|Cardinals]] of the Virtue Assemblies and [[The Throne |the Throne]].

Every member of the Synod is automatically a member of the General Assembly - and a member of the relevant national and virtue assembly. Each assembly has specific judgements available to it - for example the Marcher National Assembly may revoke Marcher senators and generals.

The assembly that will consider a judgement is set when the judgement is raised - it may then only be voted on by members of that assembly.

==Limitations==
Although the Synod is powerful - arguably as powerful as the Imperial Senate - it does not possess the ability to change the law, nor to create new Imperial titles. The Synod has the power to [[veto]] motions passed by the Senate - but it is absolutely reliant on the Senate to raise and pass any motions needed to change laws or even the structure of the Synod itself.

Crucially the powers of the Synod do not extend to cover the Conclave or the Bourse. Both bodies are explicitly defined to be outside the Synod's jurisdiction. This means that the Synod cannot veto a [[declaration]] passed by the Conclave - nor revoke those who hold Bourse or Conclave titles.
{{Synod Further Reading}}
* [[Making your mind up]] - Spring 384YE Wind of Fortune proposing the change to how membership of the Virtue assemblies is determined

Silent Bell (Sodality)

2023-07-02T14:13:22Z

RichardRaynor: /* Previous Investigations */ Added latest & formatting

<ic>This page details the Vigilant association; for the magic item see [[Silent Bell]]</ic>
==Overview==
The Silent Bell is an [[Imperial sodality]] made up of citizens dedicated to the cause of [[Vigilance]]. Initially set up in the early years of the reign of [[Emperor Nicovar]], they were intended to serve as an investigative arm of the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Vigilance Assembly]]. Unfortunately, being so closely associated with the Mad Emperor lead to their short-lived order being officially disbanded in 210YE as the dust of Nicovar's rampage started to settle.

The first (and officially, only) preceptor of the Silent Bell, Esther of Sybela, responded to the instruction to disband the order with a polite note to the then [[Cardinal]] of Vigilance that read simply "''be alert to all dangers; within and without.''" Denied official sanction, the Silent Bell continued to operate in the background, occasionally bringing news of potential threats to the Empire to the attention of the Vigilance assembly.

During the reign of Emperor Nicovar, the Silent Bell were allegedly used by the Synod to suppress opposition to the increasingly extreme demands of [[the Throne]]. In the century and a half since, they remained largely in the background but are known to have helped to uncover a number of internal threats to the Empire. At various times they were accused of helping to discredit political and social movements that were threats to entrenched positions within the Empire, rather than existential threats to the empire as a whole. As such the order has had something of a mixed reputation over the years.
==Recent History==
During the reign of [[Empress Britta]], the leadership of the Silent Bell allegedly met with members of the Assembly of the Nine in secret and offered to take a more active role in the Empire. They stressed a new commitment to remain apolitical; to focus on the vigilant defence of the Empire as a whole rather than one political faction or another. At first their involvement in Imperial affairs remained limited, but throughout 380YE, they Silent Bell became significantly more active. Having undergone a clandestine period of recruitment, they began to strengthen their ties with the [[Imperial Synod]].

A resurgence of interest in the [[Paragons_and_exemplars|exemplar]] [[Berechiah]] - never a member of the Silent Bell himself but allegedly a quiet supporter of their mission - the leadership of the order decided to cement those relations officially and [[No_evil_shall_escape_our_sight|emerge from the shadows]]. Particularly in light of the [[Matter of faith|challenges faced by the Synod]] at the time, the leadership wished to be very clear in their relationship with the Assemblies, so that there would be no misunderstanding of the role they were to play or how they were to play it.

The current preceptor of the Silent Bell, '''Malachai of the Silent Bell, in [[Casinea#Casca.E2.80.99s_Doom|Casca's Doom]]''', suggested a way that the Imperial Synod might wield the Silent Bell effectively, but with enough transparency to allay fears of a "secret militia answering only to the cardinals." During the Winter solstice 380YE, the Imperial Synod declared their support for the Silent Bell, and the Council of the Nine issued their first instruction as to where the sodality should turn its gaze. The Highborn Esau executed a mandate in support of the Silent Bell, leading to improved attendance at congregations of priests dedicated to Vigilance across the Empire.
==The Order==
The sodality they represent is small, but committed. Their goal is to gather information about internal threats to the Empire. They operate a loose, but extensive, network of informants throughout the Vigilance sects in the Empire. By drawing on that network, they can potentially track down information about specific threats. They are at their most effective, however, when they operate with a clear focus from the Imperial Synod.

They are not in a position to actually ''deal'' with threats - their members are investigators and informants, not effective combatants, but they can often suggest practical ways to deal with those threats and are adept at identifying opportunities for the Synod to use the Sentinel Gate to act on the information they have provided.
==Ringing the Bell==
Any member of the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]] is empowered to issue a [[statement of principle]] instructing the Silent Bell to pursue information relating to a specific topic. Such a statement of principle must begin with the wording "'''The Council of Nine directs the Silent Bell to investigate...'''". If the statement is supported by the lesser majority of the Council, then the Silent Bell will turn their attentions towards investigating the designated topic. In the event that multiple such statements are issued in a single summit, the Silent Bell will either take instruction from the judgement that achieves the highest margin.

Sometimes a representative of the Sodality might need to speak with the cardinal (or the Throne) who raised the statement, looking for as many details as possible about the threat. Regardless, they will then direct their attentions to finding any leads they can, and make them available to the cardinal at the next summit. In the past this has often taken the form of a verbal or written report, but in past years the order's commitment to transparency, and being seen to serve the Empire as a whole, has often seen them making their findings public rather than restricted them to any one individual.

There was some concern when this method was agreed on that while it openly encourages the faithful to look into a specific topic, it might also potentially provide a warning to the enemies of the Empire. A more secretive method was also proposed, but ultimately declined, in which the Silent Bell answered directly to the [[Cardinal of Vigilance]] rather than the Council of the Nine as a whole. In the event, it became pretty clear that most of the people the Silent Bell were likely to end up investigating remained broadly oblivious to the statements of the Synod.

Malachai, the current preceptor of the Silent Bell is keen to avoid being drawn into the complex political machinations of Anvil as has sometimes happened in the past. The sodality exists to track down and investigate threats to the Empire. While they are not so foolish to imagine that none of those threats are present during the summit, this is not their area of expertise and as such they are determined to ensure that they stay out of Anvil politics. Consequently the one restriction they insist on is that they will only investigate threats whose primary source lies outside Anvil. They are happy to follow those leads wherever they go - but they will not investigate the affairs of an individual or band while they are at Anvil.
<box>'''The capabilities of the Silent Bell'''<br>
The Silent Bell is most effective when gathering information about threats to Imperial citizens. It is also an Imperial sodality. As such, it is only effective when it is working within the borders of the Empire. It has some ability to gather information in places that are not Imperial territories but have a significant Imperial presence - for example, they have some success operating in barbarian territories where the Imperial armies are present, especially if one of those armies contains trained [[Army qualities#Scouting|scouts]] (the Seventh Wave and the Quiet Step are the obvious examples).

They are ineffective at gathering information outside Imperial borders. For example, they are rarely able to make contact with foreigners or barbarians, or infiltrate non-Imperial settlements. However, they can still investigate the influences such things may have closer to home. The Silent Bell will struggle to provide any useful intelligence about a [[Grendel]] Salt Lord, for example, but might still be able to identify someone who has that information within the Empire.

'''OOC Note:''' The Silent Bell are also significantly less effective at investigating PvP scenarios. However, regardless of their limitations, their investigations will tend to turn up ''something'' for the next event, at least tangentially related to the matter they were instructed to investigate.</box>

==Previous Investigations==
<table>
<tr><th>Topic</th><th>Investigation</th><th>Year</th><th>By</th></tr>
<tr><td>Chaos fruit</td><td>Imperial forests cultivating "Chaos Fruits" and any farms where plants touched by the vallorn are grown </td><td>[[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_185|385YE Spring]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Gaelen Embercast</td></tr>
<tr><td>Blood-on-the-Snow</td><td>The spread of Blood-on-the-Snow cults in Sermersuaq</td><td>[[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_164|384YE Winter]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Gaelen Embercast</td></tr>
<tr><td>Axou Narcotics</td><td>The distribution of Axou narcotics throughout the Empire and their effects on Imperial citizens</td><td>[[384YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement_163|384YE Autumn]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Gaelen Embercast</td></tr>
<tr><td>Confirm Historical Research</td><td>The provenance of the historical research on the Doctrine of Human Destiny</td><td>[[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_153|384YE Summer]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Skywise Tulva</td></tr>
<tr><td>Vengeance</td><td>Vengeance followers in the Empire and the claims of the Modnos family, Faraden</td><td>[[383YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_60|383YE Winter]]</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>Hatred</td><td>The practice of Hatred in the Mournwold with the aid of the Grey Pilgrims</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;>[[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_125|383YE Autumn]]</td><td>Ser Ancél Watcher
<tr><td>Heirs of Terunael</td><td> Investigate the Heirs of Terunael</td>
<td style="white-space: nowrap;>[[383YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_125|383YE Summer]]</td><td>Sariel
<tr><td style="white-space: nowrap;">Trade of liao to Iron Confederacy</td><td>Search for trade of liao to the Iron Confederacy</td><td>[[382YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_91|382YE Winter]]</td><td>Veikko Bondforger
<tr><td>Heirs of Terunael</td><td>The Heirs of Terunael in Brocéliande</td><td>[[382YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_94|382YE Autumn]]</td><td>Irada von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Eater of Hope anchors</td><td>New anchors that the Eater-of-Hope may use to reform after its defeat in the Black Plateau</td><td>[[382YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_92|382YE Summer]]</td><td>Irada von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Freeborn of the Maw</td><td>The names of notable persons of the Freeborn of the Maw believed to be in Fontargenta, Feroz</td><td>[[382YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_79|382YE Spring]]</td><td>Irada von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Unvirtuous auras of cruelty</td><td>Find evidence of unvirtuous auras caused by cruel tactics alone</td><td>[[381YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements|381YE Winter #62]]</td><td>Irada Von Temeschwar
<tr><td>The lost shield of Oath-Heart</td><td>The location of “Oath-Heart”, the legendary shield of Loyalty, once borne by Drumlin the Sworn of Wintermark.</td><td>[[381YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements|381YE Autumn #75]]</td><td>Veikko Bondforger
<tr><td>Grendel in Redoubt</td><td>Details on the creation of a covert organisation in Redoubt by the Grendel</td><td>[[381YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements|381YE Summer #72]]</td><td>Irada Von Temeschwar
<tr><td>Janon cults</td><td>Janon the Eternal of Night and cults associated with them</td><td>[[381YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements|381YE Spring #90]]</td><td>Levitia Endsmeet
<tr><td>Hand of Glory</td><td>The activities of the Hand of Glory</td><td>[[380YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements|380YE Winter #66]]</td><td>Oberon Caeli Rezia di Tassato
<tr><td>Spear of Empress Teleri</td><td>The theft of the Spear of Empress Teleri from her tomb in Necropolis</td><td>[[380YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements|380YE Spring #32]]</td><td>Silas of the Suns of Couros
<tr><td>Lady Barkheart</td><td>The heretic known as Lady Barkheart, preacher of the false exemplar Mikkal of Freedom</td><td>[[379YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements|379YE Autumn #24]]</td><td>Silas of the Suns of Couros
<tr><td>Eater of Hope</td><td>The labyrinth spirit called the Eater-of-Hope</td><td style="white-space: nowrap;>[[379YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements|379YE Summer #31]]</td><td>Jared of the Suns of Couros</tr>

</table>

==Further Reading==
* [[Tend to the Flame]] - Winter 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing the Silent Bell investigation of the Whittlefolk and their sect of Hatred
* [[Rise of Terunael]] - Autumn 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing the Silent Bell investigation of the Heirs of Terunael
* [[Double_or_nothingness#The_Silent_Bell|Double or nothingness]] - Spring 383YE Wind of Fortune detailing investigation of liao smuggling to the Iron Confederacy
* [[No_evil_shall_escape_our_sight|No evil shall escape our sight]] - the Winter 380YE Wind of Fortune that determined how the Silent Bell would interact with the Assembly of the Nine

Construct the Great Chain of Sarvos

2023-06-15T22:53:18Z

RichardRaynor: /* Overview */ link correction

[[Category:Senate Motion]][[Category:385YE Spring]]
__NOTOC__
<quote by="Sagua i'Ezmara, Master of the Koboldi">I, Sagua i'Ezmara, Master of the Koboldi, hereby announce that this season's project will be the Steel Rings of Sarvos, utilising the Chain against Chains opportunity to protect Sarvos from naval attack. This will also make them better able to build and protect a navy if the Naval Arsenal is also built. The funds are being gathered by Merchant Prince Shauni di Vergo, Senator of Sarvos</quote>
==Overview==
* Constructs a [[fortification]] in [[Sarvos]] as detailed in the '''[[The_parents_of_security#A_Chain_Against_Chains|Parents of security]]''' wind of fortune
* Announcement by the [[Master of the Koboldi]]

==Date==
* Spring 385YE
==Cost==
* Costs as per wind of fortune
* 130 wains of white granite
* 260 crowns in labour costs
* 10 thrones upkeep
* One year to construct
==Progress==
{{CommissionProgress|Steel_Rings_of_Sarvos}}
==Outcome==
* Once completed the fortification of the ''Steel Rings of Sarvos'' will have a strength of 3,000. Against any [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive|shore offensive]] aimed at capturing the region of Cigno the fortification will instead have a strength of 6,000.

You can't count on me

2023-06-07T12:15:40Z

RichardRaynor: /* Sorin's Chastising Touch */ link fix

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
==Overview==
The Empire is one of magic, woven both by mortal magicians and eternal inhabitants of the realms. While the [[Archmage|archmages]] engage in formal parley, and the [[Imperial Conclave]] guides the magicians of the Empire, there is plenty of other magic that sometimes falls through the cracks. Here, we round up as many magical incidents or opportunities as possible.
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Count.jpg|title=Between ritual magic and the might of the Conclave, Imperial magicians can wield great power over the fate of the Empire - for good or ill.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
==Mortal Magic==
===Destruction of the Imperial Crown===
* '''It has been discovered that the Imperial Crown is still interdicted'''
* '''The Prefect of the Conclave will raise a Declaration of License on the Imperial Crown at the Friday session'''
Six years ago during the [[379YE Spring Equinox Conclave sessions|Spring Equinox]], the Imperial Conclave [[interdiction|interdicted]] the Imperial Crown. This was at a time before the before the [[Rules_update_2023#Conclave_Changes|significant changes]] to the way the Conclave operates, and the way its [[declaration|declarations]] work. For a while the matter was moot, as the Crown was in the possession of the [[Sumaah Republic]], but it was recently returned to the Empire and is believed to currently be in the hands of the private collectors who recovered it from the [[Thule]], where it will remain until such time as a [[the Throne|Throne]] is elected.

The Crown was reconciled [[380YE Spring Equinox Conclave sessions|a year later]] and that might have been the end of the matter. Unfortunately, it has since come to light that the declaration of reconciliation was raised by Mavea Wulfsdotter during an "emergency session" of the Conclave - something that did not and does not have any legal standing. Meaning that, legally, the Imperial Crown is a [[magic items|magic item]] still subject to the Conclave's interdiction.

The magistrates are instructed to destroy any magic items that the Conclave interdicts. As such, the magistrates should seize and destroy the Imperial Crown.

Before such a tumultuous action is taken, however, the magistrates seek the guidance of the Imperial Conclave on this matter. There is some irregularity around the entire "emergency session of the Conclave" anyway, and they don't want to destroy a unique artifact such as the crown on a technicality. As such, and with the blessing of the constitutional court, the Prefect of the Conclave will raise a ''[[Interdiction#License|Declaration of License]]'' at the Conclave session on Friday night, proposing that the Imperial Crown no longer be interdicted.

if this declaration passes, everything will proceed normally. If the declaration does not pass, then after the end of the Conclave session the magistrates will seize the Imperial Crown and after ascertaining that they have the actual item, seek the assistance of a coven capable of performing the [[Words of Ending]] ritual to destroy it. Any such covens who wish to make themselves known to the magistrates can find them at [[Anvil#the Hub|the Hub]] (and even if the Crown ''is'' reconciled, they would be interested in hearing from covens who could destroy any other artefacts the Conclave may interdict).

===A Gift of New Talents===
* '''A potent Summer enchantment has fallen over the Mournwold'''
* '''It seems to have originated with the eternal Barien'''
The day after the Winter Solstice, a powerful magical effect falls over the Mournwold. Originating in the [[Summer magic|Summer realm]], it resonates strongly with the idea of [[Summer_magic#Prowess|prowess]]. Imperial citizens are familiar with the idea that Summer enchantments can make someone formidable in battle, but that is by no means the limit of what the realm's magic considers a heroic characteristic, In this case, the magic does little to encourage people to fight but instead grants them unexpected inspiration in crafting and the arts, especially the arts of cooking, brewing, and distilling. Examination any Marcher magicians suggests that the magic is the result of a boon bestowed by the [[Barien|Lord of the Crossroads]], although exactly where it originated is unclear.

The immediate impact is that anyone in the Mournwold who regularly cooks, crafts, or creates art experiences a roleplaying effect: you feel an urge to take pride in the things you have made,showing them to or sharing them with others. Visitors to the Mournwold are encouraged to roleplay that they have eaten wonderful food, drunk incredible beer, seen beautiful works of art and the like. The magic will have faded by the end of the Spring Equinox.

However, there are two other knock-on effects. Firstly, any character who personal resource is in the Mournwold at the start of the Spring Equinox can completely change their character skills between event by sending an email to [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] with details of which skills they wish to change. It is fine to keep some skills and change others. This represents the fact that the Summer magic encourages people in the Mournwold to find new ways to apply their natural talents, and to take up new skills.

Secondly, over the three months after the Spring Equinox, there will be a boon to trade across the territory. All these beautiful works of art, finely crafted items, excellent quality pies, ales, and spirits will be much in demand. Every [[business]] resource in the Mournwold following the event will produce an additional 36 rings.

===Twisting Shadows===
* '''The Civil Service has clarified some misunderstandings about the Custodian of the Lost'''
Quite some time ago, the [[Zenith#Lustri|Spire of Twisting Shadows]] in [[Zenith]] was established as a haven and hospital for the treatment of those who had been badly harmed by magical causes. Some suffered from debilitating [[curse|curses]] which could not be alleviated, but most were the victims of [[astronomancy]] run awry. In Spring 380YE, during the whole "[[Red star|Red Star Incident]]", the Spire of Twisting Shadows was destroyed. A stop-gap measure was introduced shortly afterwards, when the Imperial Conclave were asked to [[Sorrow_and_death#Replacing_the_Spire_of_Twisting_Shadows|choose a replacement]] for the Spire, and it's valuable service to the Empire.

Last year, during the Autumn Equinox, a Wintermark coven with the unusual name of ''the Saque Magique'' raised a [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Spire_of_Twisting_Shadows|Concord]], and were named as the new custodians of the Spire's legacy. This is, of course, extremely irregular and flaunts all the normal rules for an [[Imperial title]]. The Civil Service investigated, and discovered that the role of the Spire of Twisting Shadows as a place where those in need of treatment for magical maladies could find sanctuary was established by the Imperial Senate. The official title is ''Custodian of the Lost'', and disentangling how it is supposed to work has proved to be quite a challenge.

The title has a responsibility to help people harmed by magical curses or by exposure to [[astronomancy|celestial forces]]. They receive a small payment of 2 Crowns each season from bequests made by the families of former patients. They should by rights be appointed by declaration of [[Candidacy]] not [[Concord]]; going forward this will be the legal route to claiming the title.

After reviewing the records, and looking closely at recent declarations, the civil service has determined that '''Hammare "Meathammer" Stenning''' is the Custodian of the Lost. The idea that an Imperial title might be held by a spire or coven is unconstitutional.
====The Quiet Hall====
* '''The late Harad of the High Path has left a bequest for the Custodian of the Lost'''
* '''The Conclave could Endow it to the Custodian of the Lost, increasing the money they receive each season'''
* '''They could also Endow it on Harad's neive Mathoni, who agrees to give a regular bequest of dragonbone to the order of the Conclave's choice'''
Shortly before their death last year, the Navarr magician ''Harad of the High path'' left a bequest intended for the Custodian of the Lost. Unlike most bequests, which take the form of a magic item, a ritual text, or a supply of materials, this bequest takes the form of a large [[wayhouse]] and several surrounding buildings, all constructed by Harad and their steading in [[Miaren#Oakways|Oakyways]], in [[Miaren]]. Set in an idyllic light woodland, Harad's hope was that the hall would be ideal for converting to a hospital for treatment of magical maladies. Harad's was a former patient at the Spire of Twisted Shadows after he inadvertently became possessed by a potent [[tulpa]] of [[the Claw]]. Without the aid of the Urizeni magicians, and the Custodian of the Lost, he would surely have died without ever regaining lucidity.

As a bequest, the Quiet Hall is now available for the Imperial conclave to dispose of with a Declaration of [[Endowment]]. If it is bestowed on the Custodian of the Lost, the title will have a new, permanent base of operations from which to tend to those harmed or corrupted by exposure to powerful magic. This would create an opportunity for a [[commission]] to complete transforming the wayhouse into a hospital specifically for the treatment of magical ailments, and potentially provide additional benefits to the Custodian of the Lost.

While Harad has asked that the hall be given over to the Custodian of the Lost, his will does not specify that it ''must'' be. There is an alternative possibility; the gardens and woodlands that surround the Hall are apparently quite rich in [[dragonbone]]. Obviously gathering such materials is not conducive to a healing environment, but Harad's niece Mathoni High Path has promised that if the Imperial Conclave endows the wayhouse and its grounds to her and her family, they will provide a bequest of 5 measures of dragonbone each season to the vaults of the [[Conclave order]] named in the declaration.

===The Seventh Mist===
* '''The Seventh Mist have not given up their plan to establish a presence in the Brilliant Star'''
* '''They have prepared a gift of a dozen weltsilver for the Grandmaster of the Unfettered Mind'''
The students at the [[Enchanted#Gazers_and_Star|Spire of the Seventh Mist]] have not abandoned their goal of making themselves a massive nuisance at the [[Brilliant Star]] [[mithril]] mine. There has been no word of the [[Imperial Senate]] authorising their request for access to the mines, nor any invitation to establish a permanent research station in its depths. There ''was'' a [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Supporting_the_Scholars_of_the_Seventh_Mist|declaration of Concord supporting their petition]], raised in the Conclave by the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Unfettered Mind]], '''Eliza''', but it was not supported. The ''Spire of the Seventh Mist'' promised that if such a declaration was raised they would provide a bequest of [[weltsilver]] to the Conclave to be "''delivered to the vaults of the Order most responsible for securing this support''". The support was not actually secured, but the Arbiter of the Spire has still arranged for a box containing 12 ingots of weltsilver to be delivered to Grandmsater Eliza in recognition of their effort - the equivalent of an entire year of the bequest that would have been created if the declaration had passed.

For now, the students of the Seventh Mist are apparently considering their options, still confident that there is much to be learned by unfettered access to the peculiar radiance to be found in the depths of the mithril mine. A letter-writing campaign has apparently been discussed in detail, with the intention of persuading other prominent citizens to support their cause.
<br><br>'''Participation:''' If you have an Imperial title associated with the Bourse, the Conclave, or the nation of Urizen, or you are a scholar or practitioner of [[Day magic]], you may have received a letter from the Seventh Mist asking for your support in encouraging the Senate to let the students establish a base of operations in the mine. The letters focus on the benefits to the Doyen of the Spires (as explain in last month's Wind of Fortune); on the potential to master or indeed reproduce the benefits of the magical aura that aids concentration; and on the importance of uncovering secrets and mysteries and learning what they mean.

===Stubborn Spirits (Conjunction)===
* '''Greensward in the Mournwold remains haunted, and a number of particularly stubborn ghosts have congregated in the woods at ''Overton Ruins'''''
* '''These ghosts are particularly hard to communicate with. Exorcism alone proving unsuccessful, and no anchors in sight, the local monks and friars have been stumped'''
*'''The monk Mary Overton suggests a fresh approach. They have shown the ghosts kindness and comfort, sought solutions to their problems, and if this isn't good enough for them then it needs to be made clear that they're not welcome any more. She calls for a group of Marchers to enter the woods bringing some rough music. She hopes that this confrontation will push the spirits to open up enough to be allowed to pass on'''
* '''A conjunction to Overton Ruins at 23:00 on Friday will allow up to 50 people to visit the area'''
During the Spring Equinox a conjunction of the Sentinel Gate will allow a group to travel to the area threatened by the ghosts at eleven at night on Friday. The monks have asked the [[Friar of Honour's Rest]] to organise a band of [[the Marches|Marchers]] bringing [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Rough_music|rough music]] and rites of [[exorcism]], to lay the ghosts to rest and help further efforts to bring peace to Greensward.

'''Accessibility'''
This encounter is not intended to feature fighting and is classed combat unlikely or contained. Attempts to solve the problem with physical force have been unsuccessful. This is an opportunity for Marchers and exorcists to pass through the Sentinel Gate for a mixture of rough music, roleplay and investigation in an unnerving, haunted atmosphere. It will take place across an area of woods a couple of minutes walk from the Sentinel Gate, on flat ground.

===Strongholds and Shrouds===
* '''Magical fortifications have been raised in Kallavesa, Mournwold, Ossium, and Zenith'''
* '''There are shrouds over the territories of the Barrens, Necropolis, Madruga, Sarvos, Segura, and Zenith'''
During the Winter Solstice, magical fortifications were raised by Imperial magicians across the Empire. The [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] rose in the [[Ossium#Drownbark Forest|Drownbark Forest]] in [[Ossium]], there to shield the [[Iron Helms]] if the Druj had decided to once again try to reclaim the land. Likewise in dank, cold [[Kallavesa]] the fog lay heavy over [[Kallavesa#Kallavesa_Marsh|Kallavesa Marsh]] and [[Kallavesa#West_Marsh|West Marsh]]. In [[Zenith]] the subtle effects of the [[Region_qualities#Nightwoven|nightwoven]] enhance the potency of the mists that coil and wrap around the unwary. Two [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|great walls of branch and thicket]] were summoned from the Spring realm in [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] and [[Zenith#Lustri|Lustri]].

Magical [[Drawing the Penumbral Veil|Penumbral Veils]] still hang over the the Druj territory of [[the Barrens]], the Urizen territory of [[Zenith]], and the League territory of [[Sarvos]]. New shrouds have been raised over the Highborn territory of [[Necropolis]] and the Freeborn territories of [[Madruga]] and [[Segura]]. Rituals that try to divine information about, or scry into, these territories will first need to overcome the power of the veil and the only way to prematurely remove these shrouds is through use of [[Piercing Light of Revelation]]. There may be other veils in place - news of shrouds only comes from places where the Empire has a notable presence.
===Whispering Gate===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Covid Restrictions'''</big><br>We often have players come to the make up department for help with wounds and lineage trappings when they're being the subject of Whispers Through the Black Gate.
Due to covid restrictions around providing make up for players at this event we will not be able to assist with this. Players will have to do any make up themselves using their own supplies, in a space that is not our make up area.</box></div>
* '''During the Spring Equinox it will be possible to perform [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] between 21:30 - 22:30'''
* '''The current Imperial Necromancer is Ser Claudia Lovelorn'''
The [[Whispers through the Black Gate|Black Gate]] can be opened to allow masters of [[Winter magic]] to commune with the spirits of the dead. For reasons that have never adequately been explained, the Gate can only be opened at twilight when it is neither quite day nor quite night. Imperial magicians prognosticate that this means that during the Spring Equinox the ritual can be performed between 21:30 and 22:30. This information is, of course, of particular relevance to the [[Imperial Necromancer]] given their powers and responsibilities.
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Beeees.jpg|title=Sorrow and mirth. A funeral and a birth. Heaven, Hell, and the devil his own sel'.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
==Eternal Magic==
===Winter Wards===
* '''Tharim has extended his influence into the Hall of Worlds'''
* '''Heralds of eternals who are not under amity will struggle to enter the Hall of Worlds'''
* '''This protection will last for as long as a visible image of the Bound King is displayed during every Conclave session'''
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box>We recognise that keeping an image of Tharim in the Hall of Worlds all the time during the game without also assigning people to guard duty (to ensure the image remained undefaced and unstolen) would be next to impossible. As such we've slightly tweaked the way the boon works, to allow for the protection Tharim offered, satisfy the Eternal's narcissistic desires, and not force anyone to have to guard a painting. Note that it doesn't have to be the same image every time - as long as it is clearly Tharim large enough to be visible from all parts of the Hall of Worlds and displayed during a Conclave session, the protection is maintained.</box></div>
On behalf of the Unferred Mind, '''Claudia Varkulova Remys''' [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Tharim.27s_Bond|accepted]] the offer from [[Tharim]] to [[Enchanted#Black_Frost_and_Bonds|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. Using his mastery of [[Winter_magic#Oaths_and_Wards|oaths and wards]], and the power of chains and binding, Tharim now makes it harder for heralds who do not possess [[Alignment#Amity|amity]] to enter the Hall of Worlds freely. This ward remains in place while Tharim himself enjoys the friendship of the Conclave (while he has amity).

As part of the arrangement, Conclave needs to display an image of him - a tapestry, a portrait, a statue, an abstract piece of work that captures his essence, whatever seems most appropriate - positioned in the Hall of Worlds in a position of honour prominent enough that it is visible from every part of the Hall. The initial intention was that the image would remain in place permanently, but Tharim has since accepted that if this were the case it would be very hard indeed to ensure that the image remained undefaced. Consequently, his requirement will be maintained as long as such an image is displayed during every [[Conclave session]]: it is a matter of reminding Imperial magicians of his patronage.

While Tharim has amity, and an image of the eternal is prominently displayed during ever Conclave session, it is impossible for heralds of eternals under [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] to enter the Hall of Worlds without an explicit invitation (just as it is in the wider Empire). Heralds of neutral eternals will not be able to take more than three steps into the Hall of Worlds without verbal permission from an Imperial magician. Heralds of eternals with amity - such as Tharim - would be unaffected as would heralds of any.eternal responding to a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message.

===Litany of Letters===
* '''A Lashonar herald is organising an exchange of letters over the coming season.'''
* '''Litany invites any whose faith is not accepted in their home culture to participate.'''
* '''Letters can be sent by writing them on a single piece of paper with a drawing of a bird on it, taking the letter to a regio and casting Operate Portal. To ensure a reply, letters must include the sender's full name.'''
Shortly before the Spring Equinox, a bird not unlike a starling, but the size of a child begins to pester Civil Service members with little regard for queues, waiting lists or booking an appointment. When plied with seedcake and the entire attention of those she wishes speak to, she introduces herself as ''Litany, Listkeeper for the Speaker in Dreams''.

She invites citizens of the Empire to participate in an exchange of letters. The Keeper of the Gates of Wisom is mournful that across nations voices keep silent for fear of the consequences of speaking words fuelled with conviction and faith. Litany says she has come to offer the Empire, and nations both nearby and oh so distant, an outlet for such words.

In plainer terms, this letter exchange is for any whose religious beliefs are not accepted in their home country, or who find themselves drawn to such beliefs. Litany invites such people to write a letter which she will deliver to an individual knowledgeable about the religion living in a nation where their faith is accepted. The letters should not be addressed to a specific individual - the little bird fluffs up her feathers and declares herself "an artist of courier arts, and no simple messenger" when such suggestions are made. She assures all who take part that she will find the best recipient for their letter.

Letters for the exchange should be a single piece of paper, with a picture of a bird drawn somewhere on them. To submit the letter, participants should bring the letter to the Anvil regio and cast Operate Portal on it. In order to ensure a reply can be delivered, she emphasises that all letters must include the sender's full name. Of course, there may well be those who wish to participate in this exchange, but do not have the ability to cast magic. Litany encourages the mages of the Empire to honour any requests to send through the portal on another's behalf.

In addition, Litany wishes for the Empire's great priests to know that she has made a delivery of letters involved in this exchange to the current Archmage of Night. These letters come from across the world, penned by those who are curious about aspects of the Way or already followers themselves, but who cannot find out more in their own nation. She trusts that the Archmage will know the individuals best placed to reply to these letters. Such replies can be sent in the same way as the other letters: they must be written with a clear recipient and sender, on a single piece of paper with a picture of a bird drawn on it, and can be sent by taking them to the Anvil regio and casting Operate Portal.
===Lord of the Crossroads===
* '''At the Spring Equinox the heralds of Barien will be holding court at House du Lac in Dawn'''
* '''They will be in Anvil between 19:00 and 21:00 on Friday'''
* '''They have challenge scrolls for Tono Shartha Riqueza, Eadric of House du Froste and Dame Aurum de Castellan'''
* '''The heralds are available to speak to the following people in particular; Tarik of Ashenhall, Aldwyn of House de Rondell, Adon i Martan i Erigo and the House of the Guilded Vine.'''
* '''Anyone who wishes to ask questions of the heralds is welcome to do so'''
The Empire continues to show it’s appreciated for the challenges presented by the Master of the Dragonforge; and so, as the time comes near for another summit, a number of winged messengers flutter into the hands of Imperial citizens knee deep in their attempts to triumph over adversity and earn the favour of the Iron Duke.

This summit Revel and his associates summon '''Tono Shartha Riqueza''', '''Eadric of House du Froste''' and '''Dame Aurum de Castellan''' to all receive their challenge scrolls and begin their noble quests. As usual, the Iron Duke’s heralds have paid for the use of a space in Anvil and will be enjoying some ''Dawnish hospitality at House du Lac'', where they can be found on ‘’’Friday evening between the hours of 7 and 9’’’. Anyone who has formal business with the heralds, or simply wishes to enquire about Barien, the Summer realm or challenging the Lord of the Crossroads is welcome to come do so.

Revel has sent a number of letters out before the event and so the heralds are around to answer any questions people might have about them - this particularly applies to the '''House of the Guilded Vine''' and '''Adon i Martan i Erigo'', but their attendance is not required if everything is in order. The heralds ‘’would’’ on the other hand like to speak to both '''Tarik of Ashenhall''' and '''Aldwyn of House de Rondell''' about their ongoing quests. If for whatever reason anyone who needs to speak to the heralds cannot do so on Friday, they will return on Sunday after the battle to tidy up loose ends.

===Sorin's Chastising Touch===
* '''The Whelpmaster is pleased with the tribute gathered during the Winter parley'''
* '''He intends to provide a ritual scroll of use to Imperial magicians as a boon'''
During the Winter Solstice, the Summer Archmage hosted a [[Archmage#Parley|parley]] with representatives of [[Sorin]]. The meeting [[I_knew_you_were_trouble#Sorin|apparently went well]], and during it Imperial magicians delivered extensive tribute to the ''Tomb King'' especially in the form of the [[dragonbone]] the eternal is known to favour. The respect this shows has led the ''Hunger-Crow'' to offer a gracious boon - a [[Formulaic_ritual#Ritual_Texts|ritual scroll]] containing the details of a rite that draws on his power and will perhaps aid Imperial magicians to better understand his philosophy of gaining strength and greater understanding through experiencing suffering. The scroll will be delivered to the Winter Archmage. They may keep it, deliver it to whomever convinces them they are worthy, [[Imperial lore|share it with the Empire]], or [[Urizen lore|gift it to Urizen]]. What they choose to do with it is up to them - that is the nature of a gift after all.

===Summer's Dawning===
* '''The Eastern Sky are on their way to becoming a Favoured army'''
* '''The ''General of the Eastern Sky'' is Dame Aurum de Castellan'''
The [[Down_the_cavalier_road#Swords_and_Sorcery|plan to transform]] the [[Eastern Sky]],first proposed in Autumn last year by ''Lady Nimue de Moraine'', gathers pace. After [[The two of us|much discussion]], the [[enchanter|enchantresses]] of [[Dawn]] have apparently invited five eternals of the Summer realm to stand as patrons for the army, transforming it from a [[Army qualities#Resourceful|resourceful]] army to a [[Down_the_cavalier_road#The_Favours|favoured]] army. The [[Eleonaris|Summer Lion]], [[Cathan Canae|Queen of Ice and Darkness]], [[Meraud|Lord of Summer Stars]], [[Barien|Knight of the Crossroads]], and [[Rhianos|Regent of the Eternal Sea]] are ready to offer their support to the army - provided the people of Dawn can meet the requirements for that support.

The situation with the five eternals appears to be as follows:
* Eleonaris has been honoured with a construction of a statue at the [[Semmerholm#The_Golden_Causeway|Golden Causeway]] in [[Semmerholm]], and will enthusiastically provide her favour to the army.
* At the Winter Solstice, the ''Cabal of Nevezamzer'' invoked [[Challenge the Iron Duke]] for Dame Autum de Castellan, [[general]] of the army, and when the resultant challenge is completed, Barien will happily support the Eastern Sky.
* Rhianos can still be [[Down_the_cavalier_road#Rhianos' Favour|honoured with a statue]], but has also [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Rhianos|mentioned that there might be other options]] to secure his boon.
* Meraud is also sending a herald to the parley Rhianos has requested; the Golden Magician indicates that if some of the enchantresses of Dawn attend that parley they can speak with his apprentice about what they might do ''other'' than [[Down_the_cavalier_road#Meraud's Favour|build a beautiful statue]] at Weaving. Also, if possible, could they make sure nothing ''happens'' to the apprentice, given they are not formally part of the parley?
* Finally, Cathan Canae is said to be intrigued to be invited to aid the army, and while she could be encouraged to do so with a [[Down_the_cavalier_road#Cathan Canae's Favour|statue build in Dawnguard]], there is [[#Splendor of the White Bear|another opportunity]].
One thing that all the eternals have made clear is that they are prepared to provide ''patronage'' to the army if they are asked. The ''boons'' they provide - in the form of the special army orders - will only be available once their challenges are met or the statues honouring them are completed. There is no need to wait until all five challenges are completed to perform the official [[Down_the_cavalier_road#Making_a_Decision|ceremony to receive the favours]] which can still take place at the Summer Solstice as scheduled.

====Splendor of the White Bear====
* '''Dawn can secure Cathan Canae's favour by urging their armies to commit entirely when they take part in a defensive action'''
Cathan Canae endures, and expects others to do the same. A statue built in a liberated Dawnguard would certainly win her support, but there is an alternative. According to one of her heralds, sent to speak with the [[troubadour|troubadours]] of [[Dawn]], she would be prepared to grant her favour to the Eastern Sky if the people of Dawn were to align themselves more strongly with her preferred methods of waging war. The troubadours have put their heads together and with the aid of the Civil Service proposed the following [[mandate]] that would honour the Queen of Ice and Darkness,arguably better than any statue,
{{Mandate|mandate=A great life leaves a legend, and the soul cannot be armoured. When we stand against our enemies, We should do so as an unbreakable wall of ice and adamant. We send (named priest) with 75 doses of liao to spread tales of glorious defence and urge all those who fight beneath our banners to become as immovable as the mountain.|assembly=Dawn National Assembly}}
If this mandate is enacted, then going forward no [[general]] of Dawn will be able to issue the [[Army_orders#Give_Ground|Give Ground]] or [[Army_orders#Solid_Defence|Solid Defence]] orders; if they do they will instead default to Army_orders#Heroic Stand|Heroic Stand]]. They would still be able to issue special defensive orders that arise from qualities or opportunities but in the normal course of a campaign they will attempt to give as little ground as possible when they defend a territory. If this mandate is enacted, Cathan Canae will grant her boon to the Eastern Sky - removing the effects at a later date are likely to incur the eternals displeasure.
===Surut and the Archmage===
* '''The eternal Surut has charged folk with tormenting Archmage Ematius'''
* ''''An agent of Surut will visit the Imperial Regio at 19:30 on Saturday to hear from those who undertook this challenge'''
A year ago, the [[Surut|Burnt Prince]] apparently made an agreement with some Imperial citizens to torment '''Ematius''', the Winter Archmage. The details of this agreement are not commonly known. Surut intends to send one of his agents to the Imperial Regio at half-past-seven on Saturday evening to hear from any Imperial citizen who has "made the Archmage's life more miserable." Depending on their success, and how much they can impress Surut's agent with their tales, there will apparently be boons. From the cagey way Surut's herald delivers information about this meeting, it seems likely that the agent is ''not'' a herald. The only thing Surut will confirm is that it will be someone (or something) "well versed in torment."
==Further Reading==
* [[Have you seen me lately]] - Plenipotentiary and parley details
* [[Rain king]] - opportunities and boons offered by [[Ossegrahn|Lord Rain]]
* [[Children in bloom]] - details of the powerful [[Hallow of the Green World]] cast over the Empire
* [[Colourblind]] - The magical blight in Madruga, and efforts to combat it

Underwater sunshine

2023-06-04T19:12:07Z

RichardRaynor: /* Kostjyas Respite */ link

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"I told you, there's something down there," said Rickard testily.

"And I told you to stop making so much racket you'll scare the fish," said Alum. He accepted the jug of sweet beer from Young Thomas, and took a long pull before prodding Rickard in the side and handing it on to him.

They'd all three risen when it was still dark, and not for the first time Alum wished they hadn't bothered. The morning had been cold, the last fingers of Winter making his hip ache. Dawn was still struggling to drag itself above the horizon, and he didn't blame it. Still, the early morning was the best time to catch the largemouth bass, and it took the better part of an hour to row out to the deeper waters east of Culwich, so an early bed and early rise it was. Rickard was still staring over the side into the water, his rod unattended in the rowlock on his side.

"The lake'll have that rod away if you don't keep hold of it," observed Young Thomas. The name was forty years old now, and entirely inappropriate for a man in his fifties with white hair and beard, but the nickname had stuck long ago, become something of a joke. Rickard muttered and grumbled under his breath, but put one hand on the rod as he drank. In that moment for no particular reason Alum was struck with a sudden rush of affection for his two old friends, he smiled into his beard, and when Thomas asked him what was so funny he just shook his head, still smiling.

"Let's not argue," he said instead, as Rickard passed the beer back to Young Thomas, completing the circuit. "The seneschal wants fresh fish for the feast tonight, and I've risked our reputation in the promise that we can deliver it. You know she doesn't take stuff like that lightly."

"Varushkans are like that," said Rickard.

"She's as Dawnish as you or me," said Young Thomas, shooting his companion a dark look. "Whichever side of the forest she was born on."

There was an awkward silence, and then Rickard leant forward suddenly, causing the little boat to rock suddenly.

"There it is again!" he said, wonder in his voice. "I think there's something metal down there. Mithril, maybe. Or ilium!"

"In these waters? I don't think so." Alum was skeptical, but Rickard would not be dissuaded.

"I think it is! The dawn light is coming in at just the right angle to make it glint, or something. I'm telling you it's ilium! Imagine what the seneschal will say if we turn up with a lump of lake-silver for the banquet! She can hardly complain about bigmouthed bass when we have star metal!"

"Sit ''down''!" snapped Alum, reaching to grab Rickard by his belt. The boat rocked again, and suddenly there was a sharp jerk on Alum's line. Then another. The reel began to sing, and he had to take hold of the rod to stop it being dragged out of his grasp.

"I've got one!" he shouted. "And it's a big one! Thomas, grab the net, man!"

He stood up, balancing as the boat rocked again, and focused all his attention on the battle of wits between man and fish. It quickly became clear he had a wily customer on the hook.

"It ''is'' a big one," said Thomas in awe. "I'll need the ''big'' net. Rickard, pass us the big net over!"

Rickard didn't hand him the big net, and didn't answer. Suddenly Alum's line went slack. It hadn't snapped, there was just no tension on it. Alum stumbled back, nearly overbalanced, but Young Thomas caught him by the arm just in time and helped him get his footing as the little boat pitched and yawed dangerously.

"Rickard?" Said Young Thomas again. But there were only two of them in the boat, and no sign of their friend. The water was smooth as far as they could see, dark and clear, and empty of movement.

"Rickard?" said Alum again, and then shouted the name, his voice cracking with worry. But the lake drank his voice, and there was no answer.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Semmerlak.png|title=A great freshwater lake with hidden depths|caption=The Semmerlak and environs.|align=left|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
This long Winter has seen not one but two grand construction projects conclude in [[Varushka]]. While the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads|Blood Red Roads]] are being [[Children in bloom|slowly dismantled]] by brambles and weeds, the [[Starting_at_the_end#The_Iron_Roads_of_Varushka|Iron Roads]] have finally been completed, linking almost every major settlement in the nation. Work has also finished on [[Construct Kostjyas Respite|Kostjyas Respite]], the new port-town on the northern shores of [[the Semmerlak]]. Both projects promise to bring great [[Prosperity]] to the Varushkan people - and potentially their neighbours in [[Dawn]] and [[the League]] as well.

Unfortunately, grand construction projects are not the only things taking place beneath the trees and along the shores of Varushka. The [[Varushkan Monster|monsters]] are also [[Mime_each_lonely_word#The_Naming_of_the_Beasts|on the rise]], and as the Spring Equinox approaches it becomes clear that one of the awakening sovereigns has a particular interest in the Semmerlak, and Kostjyas Respite.

==Kostjyas Respite==
* '''Work on the new port on the Semmerlak, Kostjyas Respote, has been completed'''
* '''Civil Servants are collecting proposals to improve the prosperity of Karov, Weirwater, Karsk, Semmerholm, and potentially Holberg'''
* '''Taxation has increased in all six territories neighbouring the Semmerlak except Holberg'''
There is a [[Thousands_or_more#A_New_Port|new port]] on [[the Semmerlak]]. Kostjyas Respite was [[Construct Kostjyas Respite|commissioned]] by the eponymous [[stzena]], using an [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave|Imperial Wayleave]]. The first [[Merchant Boyar of the Bittershore]] is due to be appointed by Varushkan [[mine]] and [[forest]] owners during the Spring Equinox, ready to take advantage of the trade opportunities offered by the port. With the docks opened, the region of [[Ossium#Bittershore|Bittershore]] is no longer [[Ossium#Under-developed|under-developed]], and with new ways to import building materials effectively the ability of Ossium to build new structures is now on par with the rest of the Empire (there is no additional cost in labour to commission things in Ossium).

Kostjyas Respite is well on the way to being the largest port on the Semmerlak, but there's certainly possibilities for [[Dawn]] and [[the League]] to follow suit if they wish - or for the Varushkans to further increase the size of the ports at [[Karsk#Ivarsgard|Ivarsgard]], and perhaps even [[Karov#Korotny|Korotny]]. The civil service are already putting together proposals that might build on the success of Kostjyas Respite and benefit [[Semmerholm]], [[Weirwater]], [[Karov]], and [[Karsk]]. It might even be possible to create a similar dock in [[Holberg#Misericorde|Misericorde]] or [[Holberg#Utterlund|Utterlund]], allowing the wealth of [[Holberg]] to spread across the Semmerlak.

Even without additional building, the new port causes an economic boom along the shores of the great lake - or the freshwater sea depending how one looks at it. The taxation of every Imperial territory bordering the Semmerlak has been raised by 5 thrones a season for as long as the port remains open. Every Imperial territory except [[Holberg]], unfortunately. The Sand Fishers control Misericorde and their ability to take advantage of new trade opportunities with Varushka are quite limited.

Unfortunately, the increase in water trade across the Semmerlak seems to have attracted attention, and in the worst possible way.

==Dark and Lonely Water==
* '''Dho'uala stirs in the depths of the Semmerlak'''
* '''Ships in Dawn, Varushka, and Holberg bring strange, dark tales of activity around the lake'''
It doesn't ''start'' with people disappearing, but that's where it ends up, Arguably, it may have started almost a year ago when the [[Light_upon_the_water|magical storm]] raged across the Empire and by all accounts [[Light_upon_the_water#Semmerlak_Flotsam|churned things up]] from the bottom of the Semmerlak. '''Nikolovich Drakov''' [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_140|reminded Varushkans]] that the Semmerlak is not to be trusted, and that they should leave any unexpected treasures for the lake to reclaim. Dawnish beachcombers on the other hand were happy to take advantage of the unexpected bounty from the watery depths. Most of the flotsam took the form of ingots of metal, or the occasional piece of jewelry. However there are reports of objects found on the beaches of Weirwater and Semmerholm bearing curses which caused those foolish enough to claim them to become unhealthily obsessed with the item, or seek to immerse themselves in the Semmerlak with tragic results.

In the months since, there have been other odd stories filtering into the wider Empire from communities along the Semmerlak. Odd lights seen in the depths of the lake on moonless nights. Weird things dredged up in fishing nets that scream with human voices, or bear aberrant alterations that mark them as fundamentally unwholesome. Fishing nets being torn apart, their catch lost. Fishing lines catching on something strong enough to wrench a rod out of the anglers hand. Odd knocking sounds at twilight, as if something below the waterline is knocking against the hull of a vessel as it makes its way across the lake. Even in Dawn, parents begin to caution their children about swimming in the lake.

And then people start to disappear. As work on Kostjyas Respite comes to a conclusion, the first stories of folk vanishing on the Semmerlak begin to circulate in the ports of Korotny, Ivarsgard, and Lacre. An angler fails to return home. A sailor spots something in the water, and despite the cries of their fellows dives overboard to get it, never to be seen again. The captain of a small trader out of Holberg report how two new crew members started throwing armfuls of goods overboard shortly after their ship left port, and when challenged by their incredulous crewmates, leapt into the water and disappeared. On foggy nights, voices beautiful and horrifying call out from the mist and nobody foolish enough to seek their source returns. A lone watchman on the deck of a vessel, late for its berth at Ivarsgard, abandons their post and cannot be found anywhere on the little ship. A sailor slipping and falling overboard never resurfaces, and nobody wants to dive in to look for them. Small trade goods, especially valuable items such as ingots, measures. jewellery, and herbs, disappearing from a ship's hold with no sign of pilfering from the crew. A Sand Fisher fishing raft disappears without a trace, save for the splintered head of a fishing spear found embedded in the beach of Misericorde. A crew returning to a ship they thought moored safely at the little docks of Lacre discover the first-mate has vanished, and there are wet footprints gently drying on the deck. The rowing boat of an amateur treasure hunter from Holberg is found upside down in the reeds not far from Culwich.

Then, as people are making preparations to begin the long trek to Anvil, every living soul aboard the ''Lady Celementine'' disappears. The Dawnish trading vessel is found drifting in the waters near Kostjyas Respite. There is no sign of the sixteen crew and the five passengers - a small group of knights-errant heading out to [[Military_unit#Into_the_Twisted_Woods|explore the twisted woods]] - known to be aboard. There are no signs of violence, no blood splashes, no severed limbs. Venturing below decks, however, Everything is soaking, as if the ship has been turned over in the water for a week, but with no sign of any damage to the hull (and the ship was fine when it left Lacre two days earlier). Explorers splash through ankle-deep water, to find that the hold is empty despite a ship's manifest that claims the ''Lady Celementine'' was transporting Dawnish silk, wine and bread from Astolat, and spear-tips to sell to the [[Thousands_or_more#The_Swords_of_Nearweald|fortified barracks]] in [[Ossium#Nearwald|Nearwald]]. The sodden log book is found in the Captain's cabin, unintelligible except for the final entry claiming that one of the crew had reported "''something glinting in the lake, like gold in sunlight, or a watching eye''"

The militia called in to explore the scene are at a loss, but the magistrates take counsel with the [[wise One|wise ones]] of Kostjyas Respite. "'''Dho'ulla will take her due,''" they say, shaking their heads. "''Let us hope she is satisfied now.''"
===Dho'uala's Tithe - Fleets===
* '''Fleets belonging to Dawnish, Varushkan, and Holberg characters have a -1 penalty to their production while the disturbances continue'''
Dho'uala is not satisfied, and will continue to extract her tithe. Given the Semmerlak is the most accessible body of water for Dawnish, Varushkan, and Holberg [[fleet|fleets]], this may prove to be a problem. Going forward, every fleet in Dawn, Varushka, or Holberg will take a -1 penalty to its production. This can represent a number of things; dread of the lake discouraging crew from serving on a ship, disappearing crew members, or goods stolen from the hold in the night as the ship traverses the Semmerlak or the nearby rivers.

There ''are'' plenty of mercenaries, sell-swords, and [[warden|wardens]] prepared to [[Mime_each_lonely_word#Adventure|protect ships against the dangers of the lake]] but they do little to alleviate this penalty. Firstly, such additional protection does not come cheap (represented by reduced ranks), but more importantly most soldiers are out of their element aboard ships. Vessels aren't being attacked by hordes of monsters that can be fought off; they are being stalked by stealthy predators who strike the moment the Vigilance of their prey wavers for even an instant then disappear back into the depths of the lake.

Likewise, there is no enemy for warships to fight here. No giant monsters to be faced with harpoon and Courageous hearts. Indeed, the more fleets there are on the Semmerlak, the more targets there are for Dho'uala and her servants to prey upon.

Any Dawnish, Varushkan, or Holberg character is free to create their own eerie tales of brushes with the terror of the Semmerlak. The examples given above should provide enough inspiration for a ghostly tale; these are no incidents of glorious battles on the deck of a ship or hordes of horrors clawing up the side of the hull. Rather they are spooky encounters, weird lights, strange disappearances, feelings of being watched, and odd things seen in the depths.

===Dho'uala's Tithe - Ports===
* '''The ministries of the [[Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks|Custodian of the Docks]] at Ivarsgard, and the [[Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak]] in Karov have been effected by this disturbance'''
The creatures of the Semmerlak - and whatever ''else'' is going on here - do not restrict their attentions to Imperial fleets. Traders from the [[Sarcophan Delves]] visiting [[Karsk#Ivarsgard|Ivarsgard]] to trade with the [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks|Custodian of the Docks]] there have stories of their own, and are clearly a little spooked. "''We're used to dealing with sharks and ghosts,''" says one worried captain. "''Whatever is going on here is something else.''" The Sarcophan vessels are a little leery about making the journey, and regretfully they are going to need to increase the prices they are charging for [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] by about a fifth or else avoid the Semmerlak entirely until the situation is dealt with. This won't effect the deals with the [[Karsk#Ketsov_Mir_Mozga|Ketzov Mir Mozga]]; when they hear of the trouble in the Semmerlak, the newly-established Ketsov of Karsk reportedly shrug and say "''That sounds like a southerner's problem; we stay away from the lake''." It's easy to see why their neighbours do not like them.

The recently established [[Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak]] is also affected. The trade in [[weirwood]] continues unabated; most of it comes from within [[Varushka]] itself, or is brought north from [[Weirwater]]. While Dawnish traders may be loathe to trust their precious cargo to ships for the time being, the road up past [[Weirwater#Sandling|Sentinel's Folly]] is still open. Unfortunately, with unpleasant things afoot in the depths of the Semmerlak, with nets being torn, and fisherfolk worried that if they stray too far from shore they may never return, there is a lot less [[ilium]] available to buy and the price has gone up.

The one place that ''hasn't'' been especially impacted so far is [[Construct Kostjyas Respite|Kostjyas Respite]] itself. So far. The first [[Merchant Boyar of the Bittershore]] is due to be appointed by Varushkan [[mine]] and [[forest]] owners at the Spring Equinox, and so far the only ship berthed at the Respite or trading in its vicinity to be effected by the disturbances is the ''Lady Clementine''. There's no guarantee that will continue to be the case, however.

==Beavers==
* '''Flooding in Ossium has died down thanks to the intervention of Varushkan heroes'''
* '''A month before the Winter Solstice there is extensive flooding near Semmer's Rose in Semmerholm'''
* '''Beaver-like monsters attempted to dam the ''Ulvenwater'' but were dealt with my local knights from House Tamerlaine'''
There's an odd story drifting out of Varushka that has nothing to do with the Semmerlak as such, but there's a nagging suspicion it might not be unconnected. This story claims that a band of Varushkan heroes used the [[Sentinel Gate]] during the Winter Solstice to investigate flooding in Ossium, and found creatures that might best be described as "awful dire beaver horrors" trying to dam the Lanit River near where it empties into the lake in [[Ossium#Nearwald|Nearwald]]. They were dealt with before they could start building their dam and risk widespread damage not only in the Nearwald forest but potentially to the town of Lanit and the marshes of the Drownbark Forest, depending on how long they'd been allowed to continue. Sensible people either raise their eyebrows at another tale of the weird monsters of Varushka, or scoff at the notion of giant beavers being a threat of any kind.

Then, a little over a month before the Spring Equinox, a particularly high tide leads to flooding near [[Semmerholm#Semmer's Rose|Semmer's Rose]] on the north banks of the ''Ulvenwater Estuary''. Investigation discovers that the white granite bridge that crosses the Ulvenwater south of the town has been extensively blocked by trunks and branches, and that two dozen "awful dire beaver horrors" are hard at work expanding - and protecting - the dam. A call goes out for assistance - the beavers may look slightly comical but the same toothsome jaws that can tear down a tree can rip through a lightly armoured [[yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]], and with the aid of knights from [[Dawn_groups#House Tamerlaine|House Tamerlaine]] the threat is dealt with. The dam is dismantled with minimal damage to the bridge and the waters recede - but it's clear that what happened in Ossium is not an isolated incident.

'''Participation:''' if you are a member of House Tamerlaine, you're encouraged to create a story of how you helped deal with the beaver threat. The creatures are large and hard to kill, with vicious jaws and vicious claws, and the fact they prefer the flooded, marshy ground near the river makes it dangerous to engage them in melee.
==Dreams of Weasels==
* '''According to dream weasels, something related to the disturbances in the Semmerlak will happen at Anvil during the Spring Equinox Summit'''
* '''The weasels indicate it will happen during the Hour of Smoke - between nine and ten o'clock - on Saturday'''
* '''The weasels themselves are ''not'' coming to Anvil'''
Since the [[consecration]] of the [[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria#The_Maze_of_Zoria|Maze of Zoriah]] with [[liao#True Liao|true liao]], pilgrims visiting that sacred site in [[Miekarova#Mieriada|Mieriada]] have been reporting [[Mime_each_lonely_word#The_Naming_of_the_Beasts|very peculiar dreams]]. The [[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria|Guardian]] and those who spend time working to support the Maze find their sleep is interrupted by bouts of lucid dreaming. In these dreams, they are walking in the maze, attended by the birds and other animals that dwell there, and the animals ''speak'' to them. Most of the dreams are nonsense, but some are considerably darker, and touch on the various [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereigns]], particularly the most powerful ones that are capable of extending their influence beyond their vale to reach across Varushka. These dreams are invariably recorded, and in the months after the Winter Solstice, a particular thread has emerged that seems to be connected to [[Dho'uala]] and [[the Semmerlak]].

Each of these dreams involves a weasel or otter, that warns the dreamer that Dho'uala is roused from her slumber. She seeks vengeance on those who have stolen from her, and those who have forgotten to show her the respect she is due. Something related to the disturbances in the Semmerlak will happen during the Spring Equinox summit, not on the shores of the lake but in [[Anvil]]. The sky looks the same way in each of these visions - draped in the twilight of late evening, and the little dream animals all use the same term "''the Hour of Smoke'' when talking about... whatever it is that is going to happen. This is a term familiar to some [[stzena]] as a fanciful way of talking about the period between nine o'clock and ten o'clock when the family puts extra logs in the hearth to see them through the night, and sends clouds of smoke roaring up the chimney.

'''Participation:''' If you are [[dedication|dedicated]] to [[Wisdom]], and likely to have spent time at the [[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria#The_Maze_of_Zoria|Maze of Zoria]] during [[downtime]], you are welcome to say you have had one of these odd dreams. In each case, the meat of the dream is the same - a warning that the sovereign of the Semmerlak is roused and annoyed, and ''something'' related to the Semmerlak will happen at Anvil during the Hour of Smoke (or a similar poetic description of the hour between nine and ten on a Spring evening). You can create other details as you see fit - the dreams themselves are as individual as the dreamers. If your character has a particular small animal or bird they feel an affection for, it is perfectly fine to change what creature has delivered the message - weasels and otters just seem to be the most common creatures for some reason.

==Further Reading==
* [[Dho'uala]]
* [[The Semmerlak]]