Empire - User contributions [en]

Warriors' Gate

2026-07-22T21:06:10Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Securing Allies */ Fixing the Smokehouse of Atalaq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warriors' Gate

2026-07-22T21:05:09Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Siglings and Guides */ Fixing a link to IO highest calling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warriors' Gate

2026-07-22T21:00:59Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Overview */ Making Tsirku Enticing Again!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T20:50:12Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Enlightenment (Azoth) */ Fixing the Shadow Souk?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

==Day==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Whisper Gallery seeks communications from citizens of the Empire'''
* '''It is illegal to cast the ritual to communicate with the eternal as they under enmity'''
Similarly to [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Tyrannical_Discipline_(Whisper_Gallery)|last season]], individual members of the [[Whisper Gallery]] are petitioning imperial citizens to once again get in touch with them over matters that, while they may sound trivial, seem to be of great importance to them:

* The Vizier Arrayed in the Raiment of Dawn is interested in the advice that boyars and wise ones of [[Varushka]] might have for leaders both formal and cultural.
* The Lover Glad in Crimson is feeling a little down, and wishes to be cheered up by love stories with happy endings from any [[troubadour]] of [[Dawn]].

During the Summer Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both message and messenger into the performance will receive three crystal fire in thanks. Again, each person is limited to a single submission, but ritualists can help as many people as please them.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the boyar, wise one or troubador is a participant in the roleplay of the ritual (they do not need to be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]]). Both the performers and the poet should speak to either a referee at the regio tent or a member of the GOD staff after performing the ritual.

===Enlightenment (Azoth)===
* '''During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Night vacated their post.'''
* '''Azoth believes that their absence has had an unwanted effect on the plenipotentiary they offered.'''
* '''Azoth invites the next Archmage of Night to investigate uncompensated musicians their predecessor was charged with arranging and to suggest a boon for those who could not attend.'''

[[Azoth#Heralds|''Distillations'']] of [[Azoth|''the Azoth'']] emerge from the Imperial Regio clad in fur and feathers of swirling ochre, shimmering jade and shifting red. Resembling [[Kallavesi|Kallavesi]] [[Mystic|mystics]] though bearing an orcish mein, the heralds are at first mistaken for unannounced [[Jotun]] emissaries. If the visitors have an opinion on this reaction, it is well hidden beneath a cool, almost inert demeanour.

Once the matter is resolved, the agents of ''the Rebis'' explain the purpose of their visit: that the Azoth understands that during the spring equinox the [[Archmage_of_Night#Recent Elections|Archmage of Night]] was extracted from their role and so, by extension from the [[Key_of_dreams#Finder_of_Paths_Unseen_(Night)|crucible of change offered as plenipotentiary]]. With the formula so adjusted, the heralds continue, it seems that impurities did arise from the mix which diminished the whole.

The most polluting of these is that the Archmage was charged by [[Sung]] to instil mystery into the [[Key_of_dreams#Finder_of_Paths_Unseen_(Night)|Shadow Souk]] through the commissioning of musicians. Azoth knows that musicians did play within the chamber and that their playing did indeed serve as a suitable catalyst. However, it is not clear whether these elements were properly compensated for their aural alchemy with gifts provided by the ''Rainbow Serpent'' to the Archmage for this purpose. ''The Great Work'' has offered to provide the [[Cat's_Graces#Maestro|Maestro]] of the [[Cat's Graces]] a lump sum of twenty [[crystal fire]] if they're willing to promise to ensure it goes to those musicians who attended. If they are willing to agree to this, they should cast [[operate portal]] on the regio at the Summer Solstice, using three names of the ''Rebis'' and agreeing to the arrangement.

==Spring==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T20:48:16Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Enlightenment (Azoth) */ Fixing the Shadow Souk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

==Day==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Whisper Gallery seeks communications from citizens of the Empire'''
* '''It is illegal to cast the ritual to communicate with the eternal as they under enmity'''
Similarly to [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Tyrannical_Discipline_(Whisper_Gallery)|last season]], individual members of the [[Whisper Gallery]] are petitioning imperial citizens to once again get in touch with them over matters that, while they may sound trivial, seem to be of great importance to them:

* The Vizier Arrayed in the Raiment of Dawn is interested in the advice that boyars and wise ones of [[Varushka]] might have for leaders both formal and cultural.
* The Lover Glad in Crimson is feeling a little down, and wishes to be cheered up by love stories with happy endings from any [[troubadour]] of [[Dawn]].

During the Summer Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both message and messenger into the performance will receive three crystal fire in thanks. Again, each person is limited to a single submission, but ritualists can help as many people as please them.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the boyar, wise one or troubador is a participant in the roleplay of the ritual (they do not need to be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]]). Both the performers and the poet should speak to either a referee at the regio tent or a member of the GOD staff after performing the ritual.

===Enlightenment (Azoth)===
* '''During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Night vacated their post.'''
* '''Azoth believes that their absence has had an unwanted effect on the plenipotentiary they offered.'''
* '''Azoth invites the next Archmage of Night to investigate uncompensated musicians their predecessor was charged with arranging and to suggest a boon for those who could not attend.'''

[[Azoth#Heralds|''Distillations'']] of [[Azoth|''the Azoth'']] emerge from the Imperial Regio clad in fur and feathers of swirling ochre, shimmering jade and shifting red. Resembling [[Kallavesi|Kallavesi]] [[Mystic|mystics]] though bearing an orcish mein, the heralds are at first mistaken for unannounced [[Jotun]] emissaries. If the visitors have an opinion on this reaction, it is well hidden beneath a cool, almost inert demeanour.

Once the matter is resolved, the agents of ''the Rebis'' explain the purpose of their visit: that the Azoth understands that during the spring equinox the [[Archmage_of_Night#Recent Elections|Archmage of Night]] was extracted from their role and so, by extension from the [[Key_of_dreams#Finder_of_Paths_Unseen_(Night)|crucible of change offered as plenipotentiary]]. With the formula so adjusted, the heralds continue, it seems that impurities did arise from the mix which diminished the whole.

The most polluting of these is that the Archmage was charged by [[Sung]] to instil mystery into the [[EmpireWiki:Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|Shadow Souk]] through the commissioning of musicians. Azoth knows that musicians did play within the chamber and that their playing did indeed serve as a suitable catalyst. However, it is not clear whether these elements were properly compensated for their aural alchemy with gifts provided by the ''Rainbow Serpent'' to the Archmage for this purpose. ''The Great Work'' has offered to provide the [[Cat's_Graces#Maestro|Maestro]] of the [[Cat's Graces]] a lump sum of twenty [[crystal fire]] if they're willing to promise to ensure it goes to those musicians who attended. If they are willing to agree to this, they should cast [[operate portal]] on the regio at the Summer Solstice, using three names of the ''Rebis'' and agreeing to the arrangement.

==Spring==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T20:46:55Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Enlightenment (Azoth) */ Linking a Maestro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

==Day==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Whisper Gallery seeks communications from citizens of the Empire'''
* '''It is illegal to cast the ritual to communicate with the eternal as they under enmity'''
Similarly to [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Tyrannical_Discipline_(Whisper_Gallery)|last season]], individual members of the [[Whisper Gallery]] are petitioning imperial citizens to once again get in touch with them over matters that, while they may sound trivial, seem to be of great importance to them:

* The Vizier Arrayed in the Raiment of Dawn is interested in the advice that boyars and wise ones of [[Varushka]] might have for leaders both formal and cultural.
* The Lover Glad in Crimson is feeling a little down, and wishes to be cheered up by love stories with happy endings from any [[troubadour]] of [[Dawn]].

During the Summer Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both message and messenger into the performance will receive three crystal fire in thanks. Again, each person is limited to a single submission, but ritualists can help as many people as please them.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the boyar, wise one or troubador is a participant in the roleplay of the ritual (they do not need to be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]]). Both the performers and the poet should speak to either a referee at the regio tent or a member of the GOD staff after performing the ritual.

===Enlightenment (Azoth)===
* '''During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Night vacated their post.'''
* '''Azoth believes that their absence has had an unwanted effect on the plenipotentiary they offered.'''
* '''Azoth invites the next Archmage of Night to investigate uncompensated musicians their predecessor was charged with arranging and to suggest a boon for those who could not attend.'''

[[Azoth#Heralds|''Distillations'']] of [[Azoth|''the Azoth'']] emerge from the Imperial Regio clad in fur and feathers of swirling ochre, shimmering jade and shifting red. Resembling [[Kallavesi|Kallavesi]] [[Mystic|mystics]] though bearing an orcish mein, the heralds are at first mistaken for unannounced [[Jotun]] emissaries. If the visitors have an opinion on this reaction, it is well hidden beneath a cool, almost inert demeanour.

Once the matter is resolved, the agents of ''the Rebis'' explain the purpose of their visit: that the Azoth understands that during the spring equinox the [[Archmage_of_Night#Recent Elections|Archmage of Night]] was extracted from their role and so, by extension from the [[Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|crucible of change offered as plenipotentiary]]. With the formula so adjusted, the heralds continue, it seems that impurities did arise from the mix which diminished the whole.

The most polluting of these is that the Archmage was charged by [[Sung]] to instil mystery into the [[EmpireWiki:Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|Shadow Souk]] through the commissioning of musicians. Azoth knows that musicians did play within the chamber and that their playing did indeed serve as a suitable catalyst. However, it is not clear whether these elements were properly compensated for their aural alchemy with gifts provided by the ''Rainbow Serpent'' to the Archmage for this purpose. ''The Great Work'' has offered to provide the [[Cat's_Graces#Maestro|Maestro]] of the [[Cat's Graces]] a lump sum of twenty [[crystal fire]] if they're willing to promise to ensure it goes to those musicians who attended. If they are willing to agree to this, they should cast [[operate portal]] on the regio at the Summer Solstice, using three names of the ''Rebis'' and agreeing to the arrangement.

==Spring==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:43:44Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Participation */ Bringing Italics to roleplaying effects

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.

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

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those who knew them are certain that the merrow is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.

==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitude of at least 60 worth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:41:03Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Rants and Roses */ Fixing a broken echo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.

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

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those who knew them are certain that the merrow is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.

==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitude of at least 60 worth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:39:37Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Rants and Roses */ Realigning the Summer brackets

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.

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

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those who knew them are certain that the merrow is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.

==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitude of at least 60 worth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:38:52Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Painted Caves */ Returning the Ambassador to a working link, second times the charm

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.

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

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those who knew them are certain that the merrow is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.

==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitude of at least 60 worth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:37:44Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Painted Caves */ Returning the Ambassador to a working link (hopefully)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.

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

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those who knew them are certain that the merrow is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.

==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitude of at least 60 worth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:35:40Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Painted Caves */ Magnitude needs space with of, and it was worth it

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.

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

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those who knew them are certain that the merrow is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.

==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitude of at least 60 worth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:33:55Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Rains in Mareave */ recreating a lack of fortune

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.

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

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Those who knew them are certain that the merrow is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.

==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitudeof at least 60 woth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All I ask of you

2026-07-20T20:08:01Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Strength and Sacrifice */ heir to their

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Great Forest Orcs]]
<ic>
"Break fast then fight? I don't understand. Surely you don't want to encourage your warriors to break in battle?"

Elara stared at the preacher and tried not to chuckle. As an experienced teacher, the Great Forest Orc was used to explaining the adages to young children. It was rare to have a student as old as this.

"No - break fast - as in break your fast. Meaning to eat a hearty meal. In a ''literal'' sense it means eat well before you go to battle."

"Ahhhhh! That makes more sense. It's just like the tenets of Prosperity. Enjoy the fruits of your labour today. If you fight hard on the battlefield then a hearty meal is just reward for your efforts."

The preacher was nodding now, pleased that they had finally understood. Which was unfortunate as they had understood precisely nothing. Elara was struggling to imagine a more perfect example of the need to think before you think. Perhaps she could use the preacher as a learning aid the next time she took the youngest for their letters.

"It's not about food. It's absolutely not about eating. Its about setting priorities. The words are an allegory - they symbolise the warrior who fails to eat because they're thinking about the coming battle. It's meant to teach you how to stay focussed on your immediate needs and not get distracted by events that are important - but not urgent. The battle is important - but if there is nothing you can do about it until the fight starts then you should use that time to achieve other things."

Elara was in her element now, always happiest when in front of a class. "The adage teaches you how to organise your life, how to set priorities, it teaches you not to get distracted by something just because it is important. Otherwise you miss what is urgent."

The visitor look unconvinced. "Four words do all that?" he asked.

"Yes. They do. We're a very frugal people."
</ic>
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Biogradska suma.jpg|align=left|caption=The orcs of the Great Forest believe that it once stretched across the whole of what is now the Empire and the Mallum.|width=500}}</div>
==Introduction==
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. Last season there was an attempt to learn more about [[Not_to_conquer#Karass|the Karass]], which allowed some [[Seeking the Karass|Imperial Orcs to hear the Karass ancestor, the Oracle]].

This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. Unlike the Karass, of whom there has been precious little contact, the Great Forest Orcs have lived alongside the [[Navarr]] for many years. While most of the sept have resettled in [[the Barrens]] now that the Empire have conquered the territory, there are small communities of Great Forest Orcs living in [[Hercynia]] and [[Miaren]] and there were more in [[Therunin]] until the [[territory]] was conquered by the [[Druj]].

The Great Forest Orcs raised their spears and went to war to fight alongside their close allies in Therunin, and paid their own punishing price when the Druj [[To hold death's hand in mine|sprung their trap]]. While they are distrustful of other Imperial nations, especially the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] and the [[Varushka|Varuhskans]] who they hold responsible for the [[Ripples and shadows|slaughter of their allies]] in [[the Barrens]], they have no reason not to welcome contact with the [[Imperial Orcs]]. Where the Karass were initially hostile and kept their distance, the Great Forest Orcs are more than happy to share their beliefs with people they regard as their "cousins", especially since the [[Yerende]] have become part of the Unshackled nation
{{SOP|statement=A nation is much more than lines on a map. We send Skywise Rykana with 15 crowns to lead a delegation of mystagogues and shamans to discover more of the ancestors of the Great Forest Orcs.|by=Jim, Imperial Orc Assembly|vote={{GM}} 60-0|when=388YE Spring Equinox}}
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OrcMagician.jpg|caption='''Skywise Rykana''' leads the Imperial orcs reaching out to the sept of the Great Forest.|width=300|align=right}}</div>
==Rings in Wood==
* '''The Empire has already investigated the religious beliefs of the Great Forest Orcs'''
* '''The mystagogues have discovered the little that remains to be learned'''
The major obstacle to learning more about the ancestors of the Great Forest Orcs is that so much is known already about them. This is not the first time the Empire has sought to learn more about the Great Forest Orcs and their beliefs; in 385YE, the Assembly of [[Pride]] took advantage of [[Tooth_by_tooth#Pride_and_Prejudice|an opportunity]] to send missionaries and [[wayfarer|wayfarers]] to speak with the Great Forest Orcs, not to convert them but to find out more about their beliefs.

Still they do have an advantage that the earlier visitors did not - with the help of the [[Illarawm]] mystagogues, they can hear the words of the Great Forest ancestors, something no human could ever manage. Crucially, time has passed since then and the orcs of the Great Forest are more open to sharing their beliefs than before. As a result the Imperial Orcs are able to discover a few things about the philosophy of the Great Forest Orcs, which is all that was left to learn.

More information about what the mystagogues uncover about the Great Forest beliefs can be found in ''[[Beliefs of the Great Forest#From the Ilarawm|Beliefs of the Great Forest]]''. It includes discussion of the ancestors, the spiritual nature of the Great Forest, and the [[Beliefs of the Great Forest#Lessons on the Trail|adages]] that guide the sept along their path.
===All Down To You===
* '''The Great Forest Orcs fear that the Synod may proscribe their beliefs one day'''
* '''They fear that the Montanian children they are harbouring will become a problem within a generation'''
* '''They will not give up either, no matter what the cost'''
Although the Great Forest Orcs are very open about their religious beliefs, they are somewhat guarded about their wider situation. They are hiding pressing problems, even from their friends among the Navarr. They are eventually persuaded to share some of these worries with the Imperial Orcs during their time under the eaves of Peytaht.

The first is a residual concern that the [[Synod]] could yet turn its gaze upon them. They have a treaty with the Empire, an alliance written in blood that guarantees their rights and their protection. But the [[Not_to_conquer#Montanians|Montanians]] believed they were protected by the same treaty and it didn't save them. The Empire turned on them in a heartbeat and [[Ripples_and_shadows|wiped them out]], as soon as the [[opportunity]] arose.

Part of that was the Montanian's very public embrace of [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|Freedom]] among their spiritual practices. The Great Forest Orcs genuinely don't know if the Empire slaughtered the Montanians because they believed them to be [[heresy|heretics]] or because they were agitating for a free Barrens, which makes them worry that the headman's axe could come for them at any moment. They ''know'' that when examined closely their beliefs may seem to be incompatible with the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. They ''know'' that the Empire has given the Synod stronger legal powers to [[proscription|proscribe]] beliefs that conflict with their rigid orthodoxy. What happens if the Synod proscribes their religious beliefs? They won't give them up - they wouldn't do that even for the Druj. They think, they hope, that the Navarr will stand with them. But the idea that they could be slaughtered by the Empire at any moment is something leaders like Chief Vallack must be constantly evaluating.

As every season passes and that ''doesn't'' happen, they relax a little more, but every season that passes the ''other'' problem grows. Imperial citizens warned the Montanians that the Empire were coming for them. Every Montanian old enough to hold a weapon willingly sacrificed their life to keep the Varushkan army off for long enough to give their children time to flee. They gave their lives to save their children, and those who could not or would not fight. Knowing what awaited them, they had no choice but to beg the Great Forest Orcs to take in their exiles.

The Montanians were the Great Forest Orc's oldest friends and allies. Their beliefs obliged them to offer sanctuary to the refugees, especially the children, and to raise them alongside their own. They've done their best to teach the the ways of the Great Forest, to think before thinking, to make your pack heavy. But there is a growing realisation that they're raising a generation of human children who lost their parents to the Empire's brutality. It's not a problem now. It won't be a problem tomorrow, or the day after that. But in a generation's time these children are going to come of an age where they will want answers.

The Great Forest Orcs consider themselves to be staunch allies of the Navarr but many remain somewhat ambivalent about the Empire. There is no ambivalence in how the surviving Montanians view the Empire. The day will come when that will be a problem. For the Empire. For the Navarr. For the Great Forest Orcs. For everyone.
==Hammer Waiting to Fall==
* '''The Druj have sent winged messengers to Chief Vallack threatening to murder his people if he doesn't collaborate with them'''
* '''The Chief ''claims'' he has not replied to the messages'''
{{CaptionedImage|file=Druj Threats.png|caption=Winged Message sent to Chief Vallack|align=right|width=400}}
Skywise Rykana and the mystagogues who accompany them work tirelessly to gain the trust of the Great Forest Orcs, and eventually that pays off. It turns out that the real reason the Great Forest Orcs are being so guarded is that they have received word from the [[Druj]]; a pair of winged messengers sent to Chief Vallack this season and last.

The two messages are broadly the same. It appears that ''Nimon Rue'', the [[Druj_lore#Buruk_Tepel|Buruk Tepel]] who rules [[Forest_of_Ulnak#Cassad_Ûln|Cassad Ûln]] in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] is threatening to butcher hundreds of Great Forest Orcs who are enslaved at the [[Forest_of_Ulnak#Sacred_Grove|Sacred Grove]] near the [[Forest_of_Ulnak#Deathsgate|Deathsgate]] [[fortification]]. If Chief Vallack does not do as he is ordered, his people will "descend the spears" a brutal form of execution involving agonising death by slow impalement. Nimon further indicates that the Druj will also execute the workers and families enslaved at the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Grove_of_Woe|Grove of Woe]] in the Salt Flats if Vallack does not do as they ask - and that represents several thousand orcs who will die a terrible death.

Thus far Chief Vallack has not responded, but he is clearly losing his mind over the issue. He has not brought it to the Empire previously because he believes that some Imperial citizens will suspect that they have collaborated with the Druj. He fears that just admitting he has received the message places his whole sept in danger. But the truth is, he doesn't have any information to give the Druj even if he wanted to. Which he categorically does not; he is desperate to save his people, but not at the price of helping the Druj to defend themselves against the Empire. His own people would never forgive him if he did.
==Help Us==
* '''The Imperial Orcs and the Navarr have put together a plan to rescue the Great Forest Orcs'''
* '''The national assembly of each nation can appoint one of their own to lead their forces on the raid'''
* '''Any Imperial Orc or Navarr character can support the raid'''
With the permission of their hosts, the Imperial Orcs take word of this to the Navarr. The Dawnish are closer, but fear of the possible repercussions rules that option out. A hasty council of war is convened with the Imperial Orc [[Imperial_Orcs_leadership|warlords]], together with the [[brand|brands]] who [[Under_eastern_skies|fought alongside]] the Spears of the Pines in Therunin. Something must be done and time is running out.

The primary issue is that there is very limited Imperial presence in Druj territory. There are [[#Shadows And Light|only a handful of armies]] who could meaningfully contribute, but even if the Empire launched a full-scale attack into the Forest of Ulnak or the Salt Flats of Sanath, they just couldn't reach the Great Forest Orcs in time. However, elite [[military unit|military units]] and guerrilla raids could have a shot - it wouldn't have any ''strategic'' impact but there is a genuine [[opportunity]] to save a great many of the orcs of the Great Forest here. There's just one small problem.

Cassad Uln is a ''massive'' fortification - at least as big as the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]]. Some call it the fortress at the end of the world, and while that is somewhat overblown it is a potent threat. It houses a huge garrison who patrol across the Forest of Ulnak, and while they are currently focused on resisting the invasion from [[Otkodov]], they are ''everywhere''. Thousands and thousands of trained, well equipped soldiers, their thirst for blood and torment honed by generations of brutality. They are bloodied by fighting the Thule, yes, but with much fight still left in them. Indeed, they are on high alert precisely ''because'' of the war with the Thule. Likewise, the Salt Flats of Sanath have three massive fortifications, and thousands more soldiers on patrol, ironically making Sanath even harder to infiltrate than Ulnak.

There is however an Imperial army in Sanath - the [[Northern Eagle]] are engaged in their own elusive business, isolating [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Lower_Saarnath|Lower Saarnath]]. It's rumoured - based on the general's orders - that the Empire is planning a concerted invasion there. That wouldn't save the Great Forest Orcs, but the army could emerge from hiding to support the planned rescue if they were willing.

The Navarr and the Imperial Orcs who attend [[Anvil]] have between them command of nearly two hundred military units - but that is still nowhere near enough. Sadly there simply isn't time to involve the military units of other nations. The more people that try to coordinate together on the raid, the more chaos there will be. If this is going to be pulled off, it can only happen if the Imperial Orcs and the Navarr pull together. It will not be easy - the two nations will need a ''massive'' force to pull this off - as big as anything the Empire has ever attempted. Everyone involved had best make their pack heavy.
===Rescue the Great Forest===
<div style="float: right; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Navarr.png|width=200px}}{{CaptionedImage|file=NBNavarr.jpg|align=right|width=200}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly ImperialOrc.png|align=right|width=200}}{{CaptionedImage|file=NBOrcs.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''After the Summer Solstice Navarr and Imperial Orc military units can take the venture to ''Rescue the Great Forest Orcs'''''
* '''A leader from each nation can be chosen by the National Assembly of each nation
Before the risky venture to try and save the Great Forest orcs from [[the Mallum]] can begin, the national Assemblies of the Navarr and the Imperial Orcs to ''each'' appoint someone who can take charge of the raid and act to coordinate the efforts of everyone going. As long as this is done, it will create a [[Military_unit#Raiding|raiding]] [[Venture#Raiding_Ventures|venture]] to '''''Rescue the Great Forest Orcs''''' following the Summer Solstice. Provided the statement is supported by the appropriate assembly, military units of that nation will be able to take part in the venture.

The raid will involve fighting the Druj, both the garrisons on patrol and the overseers and jailors who keep the Great Forest orcs imprisoned at the weirwood groves. This will provide some opportunity to seize the weapons of the enemy, meaning that in place of their standard production they will receive half the normal production of taking the ''[[Venture#Raid_the_Druj|raid the Druj]]'' action. The ultimate outcome will depend entirely on how much strength is brought to bear in support of this action.

<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">Between 5,000 and 15,000 - Raid the Sacred Grove</span><br>
The forces committed to the raid will make the attempt even if it is clear they don't have the numbers for it. If the total military strength applied to the raid is at least 5,000 but is less than 15,000, then they will not be able to rescue more than a handful of the Great Forest orcs who are enslaved at the Sacred Grove. They will be able to steal some of the weirwood stocked there, with a dozen wains of weirwood split between the raid leaders to share between those who took part, but the rest of the Great Forest prisoners will be left at the mercy of the Druj (a quality they do not in fact have).

<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">15,000 to 25,000 - Thwart Nimon Rue</span><br>
With enough military units committed to the raid, they could free the Great Forest orcs from the Sacred Grove and get them back to safety in the Barrens. They won't be able to recover any weirwood, but Nimon Rue's plan to murder the allies of the Navarr will be thwarted. Hundreds of skilled great forest orc woodcutters and their families will be rescued and brought back to the Eaves of Peytaht.

<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">25,000 to 30,000 - Liberate the Sacred Grove</span><br>
With a force this size, the raid could rescue everyone from the Sacred Grove ''and'' recover the weirwood, returning with a dozen wains split between the two raid leaders. It may seem mercantile to worry about such things, but that's more weirwood that could go to resupply Imperial armies rather than Druj armies. The force would not be large enough to risk the Salt Flats as well as Ulnak, and while Nimon rue would be thwarted in the north the situation would still be grim for the imprisoned sept members in the southern territory.

<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">30,000 to 45,000 - Strike the Grove of Woe</span><br>
The Sacred Grove is well-defended, but there are three fortification in the Salt Flats of Sanath. The Imperial Orcs and Navarr will need a huge force to undertake a raid on the Grove of Woe - but if it can be assembled, then they can recover more than two thousand Great Forest Orcs and their families who are held prisoner there in the Druj work camps. This will leave the orcs in Ulnak in the hands of Nimon Rue, however, and it is unlikely to end well for them.

<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">45,000 to 60,000 - Liberate the Grove of Woe</span><br>
Just like the Sacred Grove, the Grove of Woe is an important weirwood resource that is a vital part of the Druj war efforts against the Empire. With a big enough military force, the Navarr could free the people and recover the vital resources out from under the Druj's nose. If that happens the they will also gain a dozen wains of weirwood which will be shared between the two characters coordinating the raids to distribute.

<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">60,000 to 70,000 - Free all the Great Forest Orcs</span><br>
Not content with one impossible raid, the allies of the Great Forest Orcs point out that if they had the numbers, they could do ''both''. They could split their force almost in two and have them strike the Forest of Ulnak ''and'' the Salt Flats of Sanath at the same time. It would need to be done with perfect timing, because the Druj will alert each other once they realise what is happening. But it could be done - if the Navarr and Imperial Orcs can assemble a big enough force they can rescue ''all'' the Great Forest Orcs enslaved by the Druj and bring them safely back to the Barrens.

<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">70,000 plus - Humiliate the Druj</span><br>
The purpose of the raids is to rescue the Navarr allies, the Great Forest Orcs. Still, it would be a shame to leave all that valuable weirwood just lying around. With a big enough force, the group could bring everyone safely home ''and'' steal a total of 22 wains of weirwood from the Druj - again, these would be split equally between the two raid leaders. This will strike a painful blow to the Druj - not only will the enemy will find it hard to replace the stolen weirwood but they will be doing so with groves whose production is severely depleted by the loss of the orcs of the Great Forest.

===Strength and Sacrifice===
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Pride.png|width=300|align=right}}</div>
* '''Navarr and Imperial Orcs characters who do not control military units can still contribute to the strength needed to achieve the venture'''
* '''If they choose to do so, their personal resource provides half its usual production but they add additional strength to the venture
A lot of force is needed here - more than the Navarr and the Imperial Orcs can provide out of their trained elite fighters alone. However, just because an Unshackled or a Navarr citizen does not lead a trained warband does not mean they do not know how to fight or to enlist the aid of those who can. According to the [[Pride#The_Ten_Things|Ten Things]], ''Sacrifice'' is the [[Pride]] of the Navarr people and ''Strength'' the Pride of the Imperial Orcs. Every [[vine]] and every [[vate]] could be an essential asset. Every [[Imperial_Orcs_magical_traditions#Warcasters|warcaster]] and [[bonesetter]] could play a role. Every [[guide]], every [[shamans|shaman]], every [[Preachers|preacher]] will be crucial for keeping up morale in the Druj miasma. On ''this'' raid, ''everyone'' can help - if they're prepared to make the sacrifice.

Thus, ''any'' Navarr or Imperial Orc character can take the action to support the venture to rescue the Great Forest Orcs. Any character that chooses to support the action will suffer a 50% penalty to the normal production of their [[Resource#Personal_Resource|personal resource]] - they are either abandoning their [[business]], [[mine]], [[forest]] or similar to personally take part in the raid and help with their heroic skills, or else they are providing crucial supplies to support the raid. The help they provide won't benefit from [[enchantment|enchantments]], but all resources of the characters that support the raid will contribute ''half'' the strength of a military unit of equivalent rank.

A character with a [[congregation]] that supports the venture will instead receive ''no'' [[liao]], but will keep all their Synod votes. They will however not be able to undertake a [[Congregation#Lectures|lecture]] or [[Congregation#Downtime_Options|preach]] at the same time. A [[fleet]] likewise can't take a different [[voyage]], including trading or supporting an army. Instead of their normal production they'll get the same as a military unit (about half what they would have produced if taking the Raid the Druj military unit action).

The Great Forest Orcs will send all they can, but in truth since the disaster in Therunin their number of effective fighters is sadly depleted. It's unlikely they'll make the difference. Still - there are two more factors yet at play - the Empire's armies, and some unlikely possible allies... There's a lot to take stock of, and not much time, but a little of everything might make be just what is needed.

===Shadows And Light===
* '''The Northern Eagle are able to issue an order to ''Strike at the Grove of Woe'' this season in the Salt Flats of Sanath'''
* '''The Winter Sun are able to issue an order to ''Break the Chains'' this season in the Forest of Ulnak'''
* '''The Gryphon's Pride are able to offer aid using the Barrens as a staging-post'''
* '''No military unit will be able to support these armies if they take these orders this season'''
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=NorthernEagle_Colour.png|align=right|width=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterSun_Colour.png|align=right|width=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride_Colour.png|align=right|width=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose.png|caption='''Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose''' (centre), former General of the Gryphon's Pride|align=left|width=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Sebastián Fawnwood.jpg|caption='''Sebastián Fawnwood''' (centre), General of the Gryphon's Pride|align=left|width=250}}</div>
There are three Imperial armies who can meaningfully aid the raid. The first is the [[Northern Eagle]] of Varushka. Two seasons ago they infiltrated the Salt Flats of Sanath and last season they successfully isolated Lower Saarnath, preparing the way for an anticipated push by Imperial armies freshly resupplied. Because of that they have a fleeting chance to take advantage of the situation, allowing them to submit an order to ''Strike at the Grove of Woe''. Regular army [[enchantment|enchantments]] will not help, but the rare [[Night magic]] ritual ''Host of Shadows'' they would allow them to provide an additional 2000 points of effective military strength to the raid.

<div style="max-width:800px;"><box>'''Strike at the Grove of Woe'''<br>
The Northern Eagle moves to free the slaves interred at the Grove of Woe. Their force for the season will be contributed to the Rescue the Great Forest Orcs venture. They will suffer casualties as if they were engaging the garrison of The Witness in Ûrinth (an estimated 900 casualties), and deal casualties to the garrison at the same time, but will contribute their full force to the venture. At the end of the season the Northern Eagle will retreat to the Barrens to provide cover for those fleeing the territory.</box></div>

Of course, the Northern Eagle has its own somewhat bumpy history with the orcs of [[the Barrens]], given that they are the army that slew the Montanians at Hope's Rest. The orcs of the Great Forest are not in a position to refuse any raid - it is being organised by the Navarr and the Imperial Orcs after all - but it's unclear what their response to the Varushkans involvement is likely to be. It might help soften their dislike of the people of Varushka, at least in theory, but "murdering the briars of Hope's Rest" is a mighty hurdle to get over.

The second army who can assist is the [[Winter Sun]] of the [[Imperial Orcs]]. Their skill at liberating the enchained could be invaluable here. The one issue is that the Empire doesn't control a region in the Forest of Ulnak or the Salt Flats of Sanath, which is necessary for them to issue their order to Break the Chains. However - the ''Thule'' control a region in the Forest of Ulnak -
[[Forest of Ulnak#Oerwealt|Oerwealt]] - which is also [[Region_qualities#Forest|forested]]. This could be the perfect place to launch a liberatory force from. The Thule have indicated that they would be ''happy'' for Imperial armies to participate in the battle in Ulnak, but only if they acknowledge that they are following the strategy of Tathenon the Gyre. This means that the Winter Sun could only issue the order to ''[[Army_qualities#Freedom_Fighters|Break The Chains]]'' if they joined the attack from Otkodov.

If that happens, the army will take part in the campaign in the Forest of Ulnak as normal, but they would be fighting in support of the Thule and their conquest of the territory - which may or may not be desirable. However they would also contribute their strength to the venture to rescue the Great Forest Orcs. Any army enchantment on the army will function as normal for the campaign, but if the army is under the effects of [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], they will also contribute an additional 2000 strength to the raid.

Finally, there is an unlikely army who could also help. The relationship between the Dawnish and the Great Forest Orcs is strained, to put it mildly. From the point of view of the sept, the last decade of warfare in the Barrens has layered one atrocity on top of another. But in recent times, the Gryphon's Pride have worked tirelessly to bury the tragedies of the past and let roses grow over the graves. '''Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose''', the previous [[general]], was instrumental in aiding the anti-Druj insurgents of [[Sarangrave#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]] and building trust there. Ser Guy is no longer the general, and the army has spent the last season resupplying in [[Ossium|the north]]. Yet the new general, '''Sebastián Fawnwood''', chose to pay tribute to Ser Guy in his orders and talk of a new future for the Pride. It's one that many of the ordinary soldiers of the army are starting to get behind.

While they are not in a position to aid the raid directly, the Pride have won the grudging respect of the various groups in Dawn and they could leverage that achievement to help stage the raid. Each Imperial army has their own logistics corp that allows it to coordinate supplies and military units. If the Gryphon's Pride stationed themselves in the Barrens, they could use that deployment to coordinate the two raids, acting as a gathering point, preparing supplies, planning intelligence, bringing everything together. The army would be brutally exposed: if it was attacked it would suffer fifty percent higher casualties, but it could provide invaluable support.

If the Gryphons Pride were given orders to move to the Barrens and provide support for the raid, engaging strategically in a [[Army_orders#Solid_Defence|solid defence]] and turning their logistics corp towards ensuring that the efforts in the Forest of Ulnak and the Salt Flats of Sanath are a success, it would allow the army to contribute their current military strength to the effective strength of the force. Regular enchantments and attached military units would not provide any benefit in this case, since the army aren't actually fighting, but if the army were [[Bound by Common Cause]] their effective strength would be 2000 points higher for the purpose of the raid.

Such an act would also be a tangible expression of support for the Great Forest Orcs by the Dawnish, demonstrable proof that the Empire really can be different to the Druj, helping to rescue thousands of their people from Druj slavery would be bound to have a deep impact on their view of the Dawnish.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">
[[file:IrrahHurrah002.png|align=left|width=300]]
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ibiss Briarheart.jpg|caption='''Ibiss Briarheart''', former Archmage of Spring, is currently the Warmage|align=left|width=300}}
</div>
===Wild Things Run Fast===
* '''There is an opportunity to employ a conjunction to cast Forge the Wooden Fastness on the Forest of Ulnak'''
* '''Druj forces will try to defend the Spring regio'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Warmage'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for deciding who to send and how to take advantage of the regio'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
There is one obvious force in this world who could be entreated to liberate the Great Forest Orcs - the same [[eternal]] whose guidance has helped the soldiers of the Gryphon's Pride find a new enthusiasm for liberation. The ''[[Irra Harah|Prince with a Thousand Foes]]'' can be relied on to help free anyone from slavery. The ''Friend of the Free'', however, is unwelcome in the Forest of Ulnak - that place is as hard for ''Bramblepatch'' to access as [[Astolat]] is for the heralds of [[Agramant]].

The eternal generally dislikes the Empire - but it always acts according its nature. Irra Harah simply cannot help but try to save people, even if that helps the Empire. If the Empire can enable Irra Harah's forces to support the raid they would provide a significant boost. Would the eternal be pleased to have helped or angry that the Empire had taken advantage of it in this way? Who knows? Sometimes it is best to forget to doubt, as the Great Forest Orcs might say.

How to do that is arguably the easy bit. During the recent scouting expedition into the Forest of Ulnak, a strong [[regio]] aligned with the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] was discovered, ''Moss End'' in [[Forest_of_Ulnak#Grimfen_Mire|Grimfen Mire]]. Fortuitously there is a conjunction of the [[Sentinel Gate]] that leads to Moss End at quarter-past eight on the Saturday of the solstice and will provide access to the regio there - assuming the force of Druj guarding it can be dealt with.

If the regio can be captured, [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] could be cast. If the enchantment targeted [[Forest_of_Ulnak#Oerwealt|Oerwalt]], which the [[Thule]] control, it would boost the Thule's military position in the territory, but it would also give Irra Harah access to the territory to contribute another 2000 points of military force to the raid.

In an extraordinary act of serendipity, the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has already offered [[Ambassadors_of_death#Among the Thousands (Spring)|a way his help could be increased]] as a response to the [[Archmage of Spring]]. If 8 rings of [[ilium]] are used [[Ambassadors_of_death#Piper_at_the_Gates|in the casting of the ritual]], the Oerwealt would gain the ''Woodward'' quality. If that happened in Oerwealt (or indeed in any [[Region_qualities#Forest|forest region]] anywhere the territory), then in addition to the normal effects of the ritual Irra Harah would contribute 5,000 strength to the raid.

Of course there is absolutely no reason why it has to be ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' which is cast. There are many things that can be done with a strong Spring regio, but obviously they come with their own potential future problems. Only the ''Wooden Fastness'' will offer any help to the raid. Other rituals are unlikely to hinder it, but they will not make it any easier to get the Great Forest prisoners to safety.

Oversight of this conjunction has been assigned to the [[Warmage]], so the final decision on who is sent - and what their intent is - will be their responsibility. Serendipitously, the new Warmage is themselves a former Archmage of Spring, '''Ibiss Briarheart'''.

===Dog Eat Dog===
* '''The senator for the Barrens or the Envoy to the Karass could ask the Karass for help'''
* '''The aid of the Karass would increase the military strength of the raid by 10,000'''
* '''If the Karass betray the Empire, it would instead ''decrease'' the effective military strength of the raid by 10,000'''
{{WingedMessenger|address=Communication with the Karass can be achieved by sending a [[Call Winged Messenger|Winged Messenger]] to ''Anka Karass, the Centipede Stone, The Bleaks, The Barrens''}}
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Lady Gwendoloena de Ordraig.jpg|caption='''Lady Gwendoloena de Ordraig''', Senator for the Barrens|align=right|width=300}}</div>
There is one other group the friends of the Great Forest could call on for aid - [[Not_to_conquer#Karass|the Karass]]. The orcs of the Barrens don't have any significant military strength, but they do have an uncanny amount of information about the Druj. They know how their patrols operate, and they know where the paths and the roads lead. Nobody knows the Druj lands like the Karass. If a [[Call Winged Messenger|winged message]] were sent to ''Anka Karass'' by someone she trusts - '''Lady Gwendoloena de Ordraig,''' the [[senator]] for [[the Barrens]] or the [[Envoy to the Karass]] '''Reynard of De Gauvain''' - then the Empire could appeal for her help on the raid. Otherwise, the Karass will not even know it is taking place.

If the Karass were involved, it would contribute an additional ten thousand military strength - two entire Imperial army's worth. On a raid like this the ability to know where you are going, where to avoid, who you can trust and who you can't, is ''everything''. The Karass can literally approach Druj settlements and talk with some of the occupants. In enemy territory that kind of intelligence is priceless... assuming you can trust it. You can't betray your enemies, so they say. Which raises the question of just who is the Karass' enemy?

There have been constant rumours that the Karass are secretly working ''with'' the Druj. They have definitely been close in the past. Can they be trusted now? If the Karass were invited to take part in the raid, and they chose to betray the Empire, the results would be devastating. Instead of providing 10,000 toward the ventures success, they would ''decrease'' the amount of force contributed to the venture by 10,000. Treachery would see hundreds slain, potentially spelling the doom of the Great Forest orcs remaining in [[the Mallum]]. Can the Empire afford the risk? Think before you think, as the Great Forest Orcs would say.

Of course, the Karass might choose neither to betray the Empire nor to give their aid. That would not be a violation of anything in particular - and they are known to be somewhat pragmatic. [[Seeking the Karass|Recent revelations]] reveal some of the deeper motivations of the Karass - could that provide enough insight to ensure their support?

==Both Sides Now==
* '''A group of Great Forest Orc youths who dwell in Hercynia are coming to the Navarr camp at 11:00 on Sunday'''
* '''They want to talk with the Navarr about ways they can support the nation and the new armies'''

Some of the younger Greater Forest Orcs who live in [[Hercynia]] and [[Miaren]] have fewer reservations and fears about the Empire than their older counterparts in the Eaves of Peytaht. They have been gone from the Barrens and the horrors of that land for years now. The raw wounds carved into the heart of the Barrens have wounded them less than their the older generation.

Having spent time with the Navarr with whom they share a home they are well aware of the efforts to call the stridings back and the plans to raise armies to prepare for [[A_thousand_years_of_longing|the final battle]]. These orcs are some of those who have [[Push_for_victory#The_Work_Continues|promised their support]] for the Navarr, a reflection of the ''sworn oath'' taken by the Navarr to protect the Great Forest Orcs no matter what.

They plan to come to the Navarr camp to talk with the nation at 11:00 on Sunday about what else could be done to support these efforts. It would be easy to assume that their arrival is part of the raid on the Druj, were it not for the fact that the civil service had word of their travels some weeks ago, long ''before'' news of the raid reached Hercynia. They're likely to want to know what the Navarr have decided with the raid of course, but it seems that is not the only thing they want to know about.
==Further Reading==
* [[Beliefs_of_the_Great_Forest#From_the_Illarawm|Beliefs of the Great Forest]] - A page combining the discoveries of the Pride Assembly and the Illarawm regarding Great Forest beliefs

A lasting commitment

2026-07-14T09:14:34Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Mean What You Say */ Incomplete opening statement finished

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]]
<ic>
When revelation yet eluded<br>
And in the dark we knew not how to see<br>
Did come Tian, and with her great gift<br>
Began the fire that burns relentlessly<br>

Behold our souls, Ambition's flame ignite<br>
Lights in the dark, Lights in the dark<br>
Behold our souls, Ambition's flame ignite<br>
Lights in the dark, Lights in the dark<br>
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Grand Endeavours.png|caption=The Grand Inspiration of the Way promises to cement the Empire's position as the heart of the faith.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
In the Winter of 387YE, the Highborn Assembly declared their highest calling to be [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|the Grand Inspiration of the Way]]. The great project begun in Summer 385YE is well underway, and with renewed focus, the people of [[Highguard]] have begun to [[lay the foundations]] for how the grand edifice may be laid out.

Now in the beginning of 388YE, the [[Ambition]] Assembly have joined them with a sense of urgency; not just to complete the largest commission the Empire has ever attempted but to do so by the end of the year. Just the idea of declaring something to be your highest calling seems to embrace the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but if the Assembly can achieve the impossible it will have a dramatic impact.

==Mean What You Say==
{{SOP|statement=Completing the Grand Inspiration of the Way is a lofty goal, but nothing is beyond the grasp of the Virtuous. The Hallowing of the Patron drives us to silence naysayers, and what better way than to complete this inspiration project within the year? It will draw the eyes of the world to us, establishing Bastion as the heart of the Way. From there, our faith will spread across the globe. This is our highest calling!|by=Rafael Barossa, Ambition Assembly|vote={{GM}} 392-82|when=Spring 388YE}}
* '''The Assembly of Ambition has stated that their highest calling is to complete the Grand Inspiration of the Way in the space of a single year'''
* '''If the Assembly can put their reputation on the line to commit themselves to this impossible task, then they will reap the benefits'''

Inspired by the words of Rafael Barossa d'Apulian, the Ambition Assembly have invoked the [[Auras_of_Ambition#Hallowing_of_the_Patron|Hallowing of the Patron]], a call to silence naysayers of any who might say that the Grand Inspiration cannot be completed at all, let alone within the year. Unlike the nation of Highguard however, there is little for the Assembly to [[Lay_the_foundations#The_Family_Silver|sell off]] in exchange for new sources of precious [[white granite]]. Any additional efforts to complete the Grand Inspiration will rely on the resources of those who attend Anvil.

The best way to silence to naysayers, of course, is to stand steadfast in your convictions and prove them wrong. If the Ambition Assembly are truly confident that the Grand Inspiration will be complete within the year, then putting their reputation on the line will reap the benefits. There is no price for failure, it is a fundamental tenet of Ambition that ''"It is better, by far, to try and fail, than fail to try."'' But if they manage it, if the Grand Inspiration is completed by the start of 389YE, then the achievement will inspire the faithful.

The Assembly can use a mandate to spread word of their highest calling to every corner of the Empire:

{{Mandate|mandate=We shall ignite a flame to illuminate the Second Age of Virtue. We send {named priest} with 50 doses of liao to spread the word of the grand opening ceremony to take place as 388 turns to 389. Let the whole Empire know that the hour is at hand.|assembly=Ambition Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, then followers of Ambition will spread the news of the imminent completion of the Grand Inspiration across the Empire. They will ensure that everyone knows that the great project will be completed by the start of the Spring Equinox 389YE. All eyes will be on the construction in Bastion, waiting to see if the Highborn and the followers of Ambition can achieve this extraordinary feat.

If that happens and the Grand Inspiration is completed by the start of 389YE, then it will spread a powerful confidence through the faithful, creating an [[opportunity]] for members of the Assembly to see other great ambitions fulfilled.

==Say What You Mean==
* '''The Highborn Assembly have begun the hard work of defining how the Grand Inspiration will be laid out'''

After declaring the Grand Inspiration to be their highest calling the Highborn Assembly have begun the hard work of deciding how the Grand Inspiration will be laid out. The construction is vast, far and away the biggest commission ever created in the Empire, larger even than the great walls of Holberg. But size is not the only way to inspire the faithful - the way the Grand Inspiration is arranged and decorated will ultimately be more important than the construction itself.

===Voices of Virtue===
{{SOP|statement=The Highborn Assembly invite the Voices of Virtue assemblies to be the first to take up offices in the Grand Inspiration of the Way because they and the edifice are united in our will: to spread the Way to all sapient people|by=Rinnah, Highborn Assembly|vote= 300-10|when=Spring 388YE}}
* '''The Highborn Assembly have called for the office of Voices of Virtue to occupy the central space in the Grand Inspiration'''
* '''Creating ornate gardens for each Voice of Virtue would provide them with 5 liao a season'''
* '''It would allow each Voice to choose the single most important statement of principle passed during their term to be recorded for posterity'''
* '''Highborn benefactors offer to provide the Guildmaster of the Artisans with 4 thrones a season if he will arrange for a suitable magical item to be made for each Voice after they are elected'''
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Garden Paths'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Commission#Altering_an_Existing_Commission|Amend commission]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Amend the designs for the Grand Inspiration of the Way to incorporate seven serene gardens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 70 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the completion of the Grand Inspiration</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Provides an income of five liao each season to each Voice of Virtue
* Creates a serene garden that each voice could use to preach their Virtue
* Creates the Annals of Virtue, allowing a Voice of Virtue to record a single crucial statement of Virtue or teaching at the end of the year after their appointment.
* Provides the Guildmaster of the Artisans with a stipend of 4 thrones a season, if they agree to arrange for the creation of suitable regalia for the voices
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
While Rinnah's statement failed to achieve a greater majority, it was the only one that suggested how the halls of the Grand inspiration may be fitted out. With the urging of the Ambition Assembly that speed matters, the [[Wayfarer|Wayfarers]] of Highguard insist that there should be some place for the [[Voice of Virtue|Voices of Virtue]] to preach to those who come to the Grand Inspiration seeking their benedictions. A set of seven beautiful gardens is proposed where the gathered can contemplate their sermons and take time to meditate on their chosen path.

The increased prominence of the Voices would mean that they would receive an addition income of five liao. In addition there would be a library set up for the voices to record important statements and particularly elegant quotes and sayings to be recorded for posterity. The Annals of Virtue would be housed in the Grand Inspiration to record select statements of principle whose perspicacity and wisdom moved them beyond the day-to-day business of the Synod.

In the final season of their term, the Voice could choose a single statement of principle that their Assembly passed in the previous year since they were elected. This should be a statement, either part of the wording or all of it, that cut to the core of their Virtue that they believe future priests would do well to consider and debate with their colleagues. That statement will be recorded in the "Annals of Virtue" along with up to a hundred words of commentary by the Voice on the importance of the teaching. If the Voice does not deem a statement worthy, they may wish to not submit one rather than diminish the whole with an unworthy part.

Finally there is a question of finding a way to provide the voices with suitable regalia. A number of Highborn benefactors are keen that they should have some suitable symbol of their office or position, an item that can help them with their duties. Unable to agree what form such regalia should take, they decide to write to the [[Guildmaster of the Artisans]] and make a public offer of a regular income of 4 thrones a season, if they will undertake to ensure that each Voice is provided with a suitable crafted magical item. The hope is that the Guildmaster will arrange to speak with each Voice after they are elected, to agree with them what magical item they would like to have made. If the Guildmaster wishes to accept the offer then he can collect the first payment of four thrones from the head of the civil service, ''Leonardo i Del'Toro i Riqueza''.
{{SOP|statement=The Way and the Empire are a not a monolith, but a mosaic construct of profound, and beautiful traditions, human and orc, united nonetheless by faith, Synod and Doctrine. The life and worship of the greatest monument must reflect and and celebrate this diversity in order to truly uplift every soul in the Empire. Therefore, we look to the Senate to ensure that the completed Grand Inspiration is governed by a college of residentiary Canons, one elected by each National Assembly, and led by a Dean chosen by the Assembly of Nine, who will together be charged with this sacred task. Let us show that the past, present, and \future of the Way is here in the ten Proud nations of the Empire who stand together in Virtue.|by=Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard, Highborn Assembly|vote={{GM}} 440-62|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}

===Four not Forty===
* '''The Highborn Assembly has called for residentiary canons, elected by each National Assembly, to sit in the Grand Inspiration'''
* '''Nations could instead choose to copy the Highborn tradition of having a speaker for each assembly'''
Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard has raised a statement in the Highborn Assembly calling for residentiary canons, one to be elected by each National Assembly. No such canons exist at the moment, so the Senate would need to create the titles, but if that happened, then a place could be made for them in the Grand Inspiration. The statement does raise questions in some quarters. With Cardinals, Champions, Voices and Inquisitors already, is there truly a need for an additional round of titles? At what point do titles without practical legal powers disincentivise the impetus for individuals to take it upon themselves to further the cause, as surely the titled person will do it?

One possible alternative might be to embrace Nicodemus' role as [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]]. Besides Highguard, there are four other nations with an existing title whose responsibilities include guiding their national assembly, and ensuring their nation's traditions are upheld. Each title is unique, reflecting the nation's pride and priorities. The existing titles are:
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard.jpg|caption='''Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard''', Speaker of the Highborn Assembly|align=left|width=200}}</div>
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Archbishop of Capodomus.jpg|caption='''Estella Lucati''' (right), Archbishop of Capodomus|align=left|width=200}}</div>
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Eirlys Ashes Blaze.jpg|caption='''Eirlys Ashes Blaze''', Voice of Barbs|align=left|width=400}}
</div>
* [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]]
* [[Herald of the Throne of Glory]]
* [[Speaker of the Crows]]
* [[Archbishop of Capodomus]]
* [[Voice of Barbs]]

Given these five titles exist and their responsibilities seem to parallel those identified in the statement, would they not be the natural choice to take up residency in the Grand Inspiration? Creating offices for the ten "speakers" would enhance their prestige and give them a place to stay and work when visiting the Grand Inspiration. Of course there are only five at present, but the Highborn Assembly could prepare chambers for each of them and set aside space for the other five nations to occupy if they create a similar position with the responsibility to chair their national assembly and champion their nation's traditions.

Such a step would still require the [[Senate]] to create the titles in question, but it would mean each nation could create their own position when they were ready to act, rather than have the Senate try to create a canon for each nation. In addition, sinecures could be built in each nation that would provide these additional titles with the kind of support the Speaker of the Highborn National assembly currently receives.

===Language beyond words===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Choristers Balcony'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Commission#Altering_an_Existing_Commission|Amend commission]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Amend the designs for the Grand Inspiration of the Way to incorporate a grand balcony for the choir</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 20 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:'''
* Only available if the mandate is enacted to encourage cantors to attend the Grand Inspiration
* Available until the Grand Inspiration is completed</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Encourages Highborn cantors to attend the Grand Inspiration
* Makes the cantor archetype available to Highborn players
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The Highborn Assembly could enact a mandate encouraging cantors to support the Grand Inspiration of the Way'''
* '''If that happens, the commission could be amended to incorporate a choristers balcony into the edifice'''
* '''Doing so would make a new Highborn archetype, the cantor, available to players'''

The Highborn are known for their musical traditions. The voices of their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantor cantors] have carried battle anthems across every corner of the Empire, its words sown into the very earth itself. The ineffable power of a host of choristers singing the songs of Virtue, using music to speak the truth and joy of salvation to stir the heart in harmony that mere language by itself finds insufficient. Too long, some say, have the virtue and evangelism of those whose voices can ignite faith in the hearts of others in this way been overlooked.

{{Mandate|mandate=Those who spread salvation with the inspirational beauty and power of their voices must come forth to take up their rightful place in the Grand Inspiration. We send {named priest} with 50 doses of liao to encourage the cantors of our nation to congregate and sing the songs their souls yearn to share that all may hear them and know their destiny.|assembly=Highguard National Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, choristers who use the numinous power of music to inspire and uplift the Virtuous will attend the Grand Inspiration in Bastion. Those who inspire the faithful through majestic voices united in concert will come to witness the construction of the great edifice and lend the power of their voices to raise the spirits of those who work there. If that happens, the Imperial Senate could use a Senate motion to amend the Grand Inspiration of the Way to incorporate an impressive choristers balcony to allow singers to perform from. The balcony would include a hymnal library to keep records of the most inspiring music from across the whole Empire. Highborn choristers would attend the Grand Inspiration to sing with their fellow devotees, filling the great cathedral with mellifluous voices.

By putting the choral tradition of the Highborn at the centre of the Grand Inspiration, the important role of the cantor would be promoted all across the nation. The cantor tradition would be reinvigorated, not just musicians and choristers, but all those who create stirring works to inspire others; architects who build grand edifices; craftspeople who make stained glass windows or weave enormous tapestries and other artists who produce works on a grand scale. ('''OOC Note:''' the '''cantor''' archetype, one who employs the musical traditions of the Highborn to spread the Way would be available to players).

==Further Reading==
* [[The highest calling]] - 387YE Autumn wind of fortune introducing the highest calling
* [[Blood_will_thicken#A_Question_of_Scale|Blood with thicken]] - 385YE Spring wind of fortune introducing the Grand Inspiration of the Way

Things go awry

2026-06-10T18:11:14Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Feroz */ Removing a wayward #

[[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<ic>Calun found his friend sat on the seat under the old oak, his gaze fixed resolutely on the ground between his boots. The usually exuberant landskeepers apprentice seems as subdued and introspective as Calun had ever seen him.

"'Everything alright, mate?" he asked. He held a roll under his nose and moved it back and forth slightly. Yain took the roll without looking up, and bit into it, his eyes shifting to Calun's boots.

"Calun... have you ever heard the sun singing?" Yain sounded very, very worried.

"You what mate?" It sounded stupid but it was all Calun could think to say.

"The sun. Have you ever heard it... singing?" The other young man sounded to be on the verge of tears. "Have you ever heard tell of anyone else saying they heard it singing?"

"Uh... no. No mate I haven't. Look have you been... at something? Master Padrig's special stash of potions maybe?"

Glumly, Yain shook his head. "I had some old cheese with breakfast. Do you reckon that might be it?"

"It could be, it could be. Where's Master Padrig?"

Yain gestured vaguely behind him.

"I can still hear it," he whispered as he finished the roll. "It's really loud Calun. I keep wanting to look at it to see if it has a face, even though I know it definitely doesn't and if I do look at it I'll go blind. What am I gonna do, mate?"

Calun felt his stomach do a backflip at the despair in Yain's voice, but kept his voice steady.

"What we're gonna do, marra, is we're going to go find Master Padrig and once he's had a look at you, I'm going to go get chirurgeon Alice, and together we're going to work out what's wrong and how it can be fixed."

He put one hand reassuringly on Yain's shoulder, and squeezed until his friend nodded a few times, acknowledging the plan.

"But first," said Calun, shaking the breadcrumbs and bits of torn lettuce out of the bag that had until recently held his lunch. "First we're going to put this sack over your head to make sure you don't do yourself an injury."</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WandererIllustrationInk.JPG|caption=The stars are very bright tonight... but are they quite what they seem?|align=right|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
Not long before the Winter Solstice, [[What regulates the wheel?|magical chaos]] seeped into Anvil. The Imperial regio lost a portion of its power, some ritual magic had unexpected effects, and covens from individual nations discovered they were able to cooperate with one another like never before.

A great deal of [[divination]] was performed to try and unravel what has happened. Rumour can run twice round Anvil before the truth has shaken the sleep from its eyes, as the saying goes; the most common speculation involves an unprecedented conjunction of [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]]. Gossip suggests that the [[Astral Arcanist]] '''Serenus Starsong''' has rallied their peers, some of the finest experts in the magic of the heavens, toward finding a solution. Mind you, there is ''also'' speculation that this shift in the Imperial regio and the other chaotic magical events unfolding over the Empire are in fact the ''fault'' of a powerful cabal of astronomancers, lead by the Astral Arcanist, who plan to usurp control of the Empire in the service of the pitiless stars.

Whatever else is going on, the magical chaos at least seems to be getting worse. There are stories from across the Empire of magical rituals going awry. They still ''work'', they still do what they are meant to do, but it seems that isn't ''all'' they are doing.
==Wounded Regio==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreatWyrmnowingsIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''It remains impossible to enhance ritual lore using the Imperial regio
* '''Other properties of the Imperial regio are unchanged
The Imperial regio at Anvil remains... [[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Broken_Regio|broken]]. The situation does not seem to have improved from the Spring Equinox but, at least, it has not grown any worse. To recap, the key power that so many Imperial magicians have relied on for nearly four centuries remains inaccessible. Since it was first discovered, the Imperial regio has been used to enhance [[rituals]] cast within it. Harnessing its power allowed ritual magicians to improve their [[Magical skills#Ritual lores|realm lore]] to allow them to perform more powerful magic. This property does not seem to be available; attempts to draw on that power simply find... nothing.

In other respects, the regio continues to function as normal. It still allows rituals that in other circumstances would require ten minutes to cast to instead be performed in five minutes. It is still a "strong regio", connected to all six realms of magic. Rituals that must be performed at a strong regio can still be performed using the Imperial regio, and it still remains connected to every Imperial territory. It can still be used in conjunction with the [[Citadel Guard]] to focus magic and channel rituals through the Urizen [[army]]. Bargains with [[eternal|eternals]] that allow magicians to use [[operate portal]] to send or receive boons function normally although its not clear exactly ''how'' they are working. Rituals that specifically require the Imperial regio to work such as [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] still operate normally.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Serenus Starsong.jpg|caption='''Serenus Starsong''', Astral Arcanist|align=right|width=250}}
===Using the Imperial Regio===
Magicians who use the regio to target a [[territory]] in the Empire, or to [[Enchantment|enchant]] an Imperial [[army]], experiences a supernatural sense of the importance of what they are doing. Unless the maintain strict focus, it is easy to become distracted with thoughts of the potential consequences of their magic no matter how unlikely they may be. Each act of powerful magic seems to have additional significance, and it is easy to begin second-guessing whether ''this'' is the right time to perform ''this'' ritual on ''this'' target. Those given to introspection might experience visionary flashes in which they seem to observe the outcome of the ritual playing out around them in real time. Any player casting a ritual on a territory or army is encouraged to review any description of that ritual on the wiki, and use that to inspire flashes of how the magic might cause unexpected outcomes.

The same effect is experienced by anyone using the Citadel Guard connection to perform magic, but in addition they feel a physical connection to the Urizeni that make up that army. They may experience flashes of displacement that cause them to imagine for a moment they are a soldier in the army, or they may experience sensory phantoms related to the territory. The Citadel Guard are in [[Sarangrave]] at the moment - sensory phantoms might include the smell of marshland, the sound of desperate battle, the taste of army rations tinged with blood, a sensation of being drenched to the skin regardless of the actual weather, or an echo of fear and dread reminiscent of the [[Druj miasma|miasma]] that covers lands claimed by the Druj. These phantoms persist for a few minutes after the ritual is completed.
==Common Cause==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=ChainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=ThreeSistersIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''During the Spring Equinox covens can cooperate with other covens in their own nation without needing additional assistance
It is not ''all'' bad news. The effects marked by [[Astronomancy|Astronomancers]] before the Winter solstice, allowing different covens within the same nation to cooperate when casting powerful rituals, still persists. Any coven can work with any other coven or covens from their own nation without needing anything to facilitate it. Of course the universal magical law that prevents covens and magicians from ''different nations'' cooperating are still in place, and these limitations show absolutely no sign of weakening.
{{Anchor|Participation: Working Together}}
<br><br>'''<big>Participation: Working Together'''</big><br>
During the Spring Equinox any number of covens from the same nation can work together to perform a ritual as if they were using the [[Archmage#Belt_of_Stars|Belt of Stars]]. Cooperative rituals count as a daily ritual use by every coven involved. While they may be performing a ritual together, they are still treated as separate covens for all other purposes (for example, a ritual that affects an entire coven will only affect one target coven). Each coven can use their own paraphernalia while performing this joint ritual. The effects of the [[Volhov's Robe]] seem to be unchanged; they still allow a magician who is not part of a coven to work with any other coven without difficulty.

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Drowning Shepherd==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=DrownedManIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''It is currently impossible to create arcane projections that curse an individual'''
* '''Arcane projections that create a personal curse issued before Winter 386YE no longer work'''
* '''Arcane projections created after that data, that curse a character, cannot be cast after this event'''
* '''During the Spring Equinox Arcane projections that create personal curses can be unravelled for ten mana'''
* '''After the Spring Equinox, no arcane projection that creates a personal curse will work'''
For some time, [[the Drowned Shepherd]] has been exerting - or reflecting - a twisting effect on Imperial magic even before the current unprecedented conjunction. This is a dangerous constellation, often invoked in magic that creates [[curse|curses]] or destruction, and it was the last to be uncovered by the recent project to learn the names of the stars. For some time now, it has been impossible to complete an [[arcane projection]] that creates a personal [[curse]] - a curse that targets an individual. Furthermore, as magicians of the [[Unfettered Mind]] have been warning for a while, it is becoming increasingly difficult to perform arcane projections that create a personal curse. Existing arcane projections that have allowed such magic to be performed have likewise been corroding and unravelling. The magic bound into these arcane projections has become scrambled - an effect that cannot be reversed.

As of the end of the Spring Equinox, any arcane projection that creates a personal curse can no longer be cast. Personal curse arcane projections created issued before Winter 386YE (the start of 2025) are already non-functional. It is still possible to salvage such an arcane projection before its power fails entirely, as first noted in [[The_moth_for_the_star#An_Unravelling|Autumn last year]]. Any arcane projection that creates a curse on a character, can be brought to [[GOD]] and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange arcane projections that create such curses in this way will persist until the end of this event. After the end of the Spring Equinox it will no longer be possible to either cast arcane projections that deal with personal curses, or to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana.

The only good news is that it seems this unravelling is settling down - at least with regard to personal curses. Members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] are cautiously optimistic that whatever has been going on with curses aimed at individuals is resolving itself and that it should soon be possible to create arcane projections that cause trouble for other people again. Although what form such projections will take is a matter for speculation - after a similar effect befell arcane projections relating to the enchantment of armies, soldiers, and ships the laws of magic subtly adjusted themselves to change the way such things were done.

'''OOC Note:''' You'll need to hand the arcane projection phys-rep over so we can mark it as inactive on our systems. We don't plan to reprint lost arcane projections for the event; if you have lost an arcane projection in downtime you can e-mail [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] after the event with the details of the missing projection and we'll do our best to replace it in time for the Autumn Equinox.

==Things Revealed==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Key and Spider.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Every Penumbral Veil and Vale of Shadows across the Empire has collapsed
* '''The interference with Imperial divinations has collapsed
* '''The influence of the Key and the Spider prevent shrouds forming over the Empire or adjacent territories
At the same time as the chaos at the Imperial regio was being reported, it was discovered that [[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Hidden Things|magical shrouds]] had settled not only over the Empire but over all adjoining territories as well. This included [[Bregasland]], [[Therunin]], and [[Liathaven]], the entire [[the Mallum|Mallum]], almost all of [[Otkodov]], and all [[Jotun]] lands the Empire has maps of - [[Skallahn]], [[Tromsa]], and [[Hordalant]]. During the Winter Solstice, the potent shroud over [[Casinea]] and the Imperial regio itself was broken with the [[Piercing Light of Revelation]].

The other shrouds persisted for a time, but it seems that the effect at Anvil was somehow the "lynchpin" of the entire effect. Within a week of the Winter Solstice, the unexplained shrouds disintegrated. Magicians across the Empire - and those venturing beyond its immediate borders - report that there is no sign of them. As the Spring Equinox approaches, however, it appears there is still a lingering effect, one that is almost completely opposite to that which created the magical shrouds in the first place. [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Lock|the Lock]] is no longer bright in the skies over Casinea; instead [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Key]] and [[The_Spider_and_The_Web#The_Spider|the Spider]] now glitter with a certain perceptible presence. Their laws are "Things are watched by a hidden eye" and "things are revealed" and that seems very much to be the case.

During the Spring Equinox it is not possible to use ''any'' magic to create a shroud over a territory within, or adjacent to, the Empire. That covers all territories that can be reached by the Imperial regio but also those listed above - [[Skallahn]], the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and the rest. This effect is not just restricted to Imperial magicians either - it appears ''nobody'' can create shrouds on this scale. No ritual exists to do so in Imperial lore, but members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] are confident that even if there ''was'' a way to shroud an entire Empire with a single ritual, it too would not work.

'''OOC Note:''' Attempts by ''anyone'' to use magic that shrouds a territory or the Empire during the Spring Equinox will fail. It will remain impossible to create such effects until at least the start of the Summer Solstice. Rituals that shroud things on a smaller scale such as [[Vale of Shadows]], [[Incantation's Mystic Mask]], [[Masque of the Blinded Weaver]], or ''The Malachite Casket'' can be cast as normal.

==Star Dreams==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=PhoenixIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=The Web.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The astronomantic constellations are more pronounced in the night sky
* '''Folk everywhere are experiencing vivid dreams filled with images of the things the constellations represent
* '''Anyone who dreams can gain a burst of inspiration by describing their dream in vivid detail to someone else
Across the Empire, the astronomantic [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]] are more pronounced in the night sky. The stars that make up the constellations seem brighter and more vivid, and draw the eye. They also haunt peoples' nights - even the most mundane dream becomes a little more eerie when [[the Mountain]] or [[the Stork]] burns brightly, but without context, in a darkened sky. Likewise, actual images of the things the constellations are held to represent turn up in dreams much more often. A dream of a family wedding might be observed by [[the Three Sisters|three women]] who nobody else can see but who slowly close in around the dreamer. A business owners dream of serving a difficult customer may be made much more surreal by the presence of [[the Stork|great white birds]] infesting their shop. A dream of flying is much more intense as the dreamer imagines they have [[the Phoenix|great fiery wings]] which allow them to soar across the Empire high in the night sky.

This effect is much more pronounced at Anvil; even magical dreams and nightmares such as those caused by [[Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt]], or created through the [[Dedication#Dreams|dedication]] ceremony, will be influenced by constellations and images of the things they symbolise. Only those who do not dream - due to being [[excommunication|excommunicated]] for example - are untouched by this effect.

Peculiar and often unsettling as this is, it also brings with it a strange inspiration. Once during the Spring Equinox, any character can spend two minutes of appropriate roleplaying describing the dream they had last night to another character. Using this ability, you should include as much detail as possible, and the dream must include reference to one of the constellations. At the end of the two minutes, you recover either one spent [[heroic skills#hero|hero point]] or two spent points of personal mana. If you are interrupted during your dream explanation, the ability isn't wasted but you must start your time again. This includes someone walking away from your attempt to describe your dream to them.

Unlike most such abilities, this one ''can'' be used in dangerous circumstances such as a battle - although obviously attacking, defending yourself, or being hit disrupts your story of your dream. This ability is not available to anyone who is not able to dream, but it ''can'' be used by people who are experiencing magical dreams such as [[Sift the Dreamscape's Sands]] or ''Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt''.
{{CaptionedImage|file=StallionIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
===Ride the Noble Steed===
* '''The ritual ''Ride the Noble Steed'' has an additional effect during the Spring Equinox
One particular ritual that involves dreams seems to have been empowered in a peculiar way. [[Ride the Noble Steed]] normally provides two people with a dream of riding a horse, but during the Spring Equinox the dream is significantly more vivid. The horse is wilder, and the environment through which it rides more majestic and awe-inspiring. The dream always takes place under - or through - the night sky, and the horse itself seems particularly solid and potent.

Until sunset the day after experiencing this empowered dream, one of the two participants can use either [[Heroic_skills#Stay_With_Me|stay with me]] or [[Heroic_skills#Get_it_Together|get it together]] on the other participant, without spending a hero point. To use this ability they must include a reference to their shared dream, to the horse they rode, and to their relationship. Once this ability is invoked by one of the participants, the effect ends - its not possible for ''both'' participants to heal the other. It's also worth noting that its not possible to dream of riding the horse with more than one person - at least not without using a different ritual - and there are only so many magical dreams one can have in a night. If you are also enchanted with an effect such as [[Sift the Dreamscape's Sands]] you can't take advantage of the power granted by Ride the Noble Steed.

==Rivers of Chaos==
{{CaptionedImage|file=FountainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Rivers of Life curse has had additional unpredictable effects in the territories where it has been cast
* '''In Feroz opportunities exist to harness the power of the spell
* '''In Redoubt the curse has aggravated the Ribbon of Salt
* '''In Mitwold the curse has resulted in odd pools of blood-like liquid and some unsettling events around the Pale Chain
It's easy to forget that [[Rivers of Life]] is, just like [[Rivers Run Red]], a [[curse]] and not an [[enchantment]]. Imperial arcane scholars often tie this to its indiscriminate nature - it aids ones enemies as well as ones allies. The reality runs a little deeper than this; all [[Spring magic]] is indiscriminate to some degree. Just like Rivers Run Red, Rivers of Life works by metaphorically throwing open a door and allowing the [[Spring_magic#Healing_and_Vitality|healing and vitality]] of the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] to flood into a territory, just as Rivers Run Red does with the uncontrolled resonances of [[Spring magic#Venom|venom and sickness]]. The effects are generally beneficial, but only because mortals value life and healing over infection and sickness. This uncontrollable flow of magic means that, even more so than a large scale [[enchantment]], Rivers of Life can have widespread unpredictable effects in addition to restoring health to injured warriors. Soldiers fighting at the [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#The_Battle_of_Wayford|Battle of Wayford]] in [[Mitwold]] or [[Other_monstrous_geographies#The_End_of_Winter|assailing the Tower of the Skink]] in [[Sarangrave]] saw first hand the kind of [[spring magic#Chaos|chaos]] that can be stirred up alongside the healing power of Spring.
===Feroz===
* '''Rivers of Life in Feroz has fallen under the influence of the Stallion
* '''Farms can harness the burst of fertility this has provided by employing Strong Ox, Golden Sun
* '''The Dhomiro of Afar can improve the quality and health of their Herd with the use of Spring magic and ilium
Feroz as a whole has known better years. Since the Grendel occupation was ended, it has slowly pulled itself back to its feet. This last season, [[Rivers of Life|healing rains]] fell across Feroz and brought with them the touch of rampant Spring magic. With the stars of [[the Stallion]] bright in the night sky, they have lead to a remarkable surge in the number of animals born across the territory, especially among the cattle of the [[Dhomiro of Afar#Herds of Afar|Herds of Afar]]. Farms across the territory look to be flourishing, and there is every promise of a fine harvest this year. Provided the lingering power of the "curse" is harnessed of course.

During the Spring Equinox, any [[farm]] in Feroz that was [[enchantment|enchanted]] with [[Blessing of New Spring]] at the Winter Solstice will provide an additional 18 rings at the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox. Thanks to a bumper crop, fuelled by the magic of Rivers of Life and the influence of the Stallion (or perhaps the Stallion simply reflects the fact that this magic is working across the territory).

The [[Dhomiro of Afar]] is in a more unique position however. Some of the hakima who have made a study of such things believe there is a way to harness this unlooked for bounty with the power of [[ilium|star metal]]. The ritual [[Fan the Flame of New Life]] is normally used on folk looking to start a family, but this season it could be used in a different way. If the Dhomiro of Afar has the ritual cast on themselves at the Spring Equinox, it could be made to have a much more significant, lingering effect.

The ritual would need to be performed at the Imperial regio, and would take five minutes to perform rather than the usual two. During the performance the constellation of the Stallion would need to be invoked by the contributors and the target alike. Finally, this ritual would also need six rings of ilium that would be consumed during the performance. At the climax of the ritual, the magic would be greatly enhanced and pass ''through'' the Dhomiro of Afar without touching them. Instead it would spread through the Herds they have [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion|dominion]] over, harnessing their fertility and dramatically increasing their numbers. If this complex plan is followed, the Herds of Afar will provide an additional 12 crowns of income each season going forward. ('''OOC Note:''' The enchantment would ''not'' have any effect on the Dhomiro of Afar).

===Redoubt===
{{CaptionedImage|file=MountainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Ribbon of Salt has become agitated
* '''If a territory- or Empire-scale curse or enchantment of Spring magic effects Redoubt during the Spring Equinox the Ribbon will erupt disastrously
* '''There is a possibility that the damage could be mitigated by unleashing the Ribbon under the influence of the Fountain
There are not many farms in Redoubt, but those few there are report that the [[Rivers of Life]] have brought with them the kind of fine, healthy growth that makes a farmer glad indeed. These farms lie in the lowlands, and the life-giving magic of the waters flows through irrigation ditches, falls in the rain itself, and promises a harvest that will be nothing short of remarkable... but there is also a note of caution. Star watchers and [[astronomancy|astronomancers]] have marked that [[the Mountain]] and [[the Stork]] seem to be coming into alignment above the mountains of Redoubt specifically. Worst of all, [[the Wanderer]] appears to be influencing this minor conjunction and that does not bode well. Especially given what lies just off the coast of the territory.

The [[Redoubt#Optarion|Ribbon of Salt]] in Redoubt is an unpredictable [[regio]] tied to the Spring realm. It lies beneath the surface of the Bay of Catazar near the spire of Visten in south-eastern Redoubt. Once or twice every week it "erupts" sending a massive waterspout several hundred feet into the air, sometimes with tragic consequences for those trying to make use of the regio. Some [[seer|seers]] warn that the spout has the potential to be even more destructive, and watch it uneasily whenever any large scale Spring magic is used in the territory. Indeed, the Children of Wrecks recently attempted to [[On_southern_sands#Objective:_Protect_the_Ribbon_of_Salt|harness its power]] to unleash a disaster on the shores of Redoubt, but the intervention of Imperial heroes put paid to their plans. For the last month, the eruptions of the Ribbon of Salt have increased in tempo. In the fortnight before the Spring Equinox, they are coming roughly once every eighteen hours or so. This is, obviously, a cause for some concern.

Several magicians from Visten visited the Ribbon immediately after one of the eruptions in the short period where they can be confident there is no danger. What they learned here intensifies concern into alarm. The regio is on the verge of some disastrous outpouring of Spring magic, prompted by the curse laid over the territory. Left to its own devices, it will eventually subside, spending its energy in these frequent outbursts of violent water. The potential danger is being exacerbated by - or possibly reflected in - the constellations that seem focused on Redoubt as the Spring Equinox draws closer. After the Equinox, the threat should pass and the eruptions become further and further apart.

Unless someone places a powerful Spring magical curse or enchantment over Redoubt of course. If that happens, the combination of even more Spring magic and the constellations will create a deadly resonance that will see the Ribbon of Salt explode. On the first full moon after the Equinox, when the tides are at their highest, a ripple of [[Spring magic#ruin|ruinous]] magic will pour out of the Ribbon of Salt and cause devastating Spring storms to crash against all the territories on the coast of the Bay of Catazar. Not only Redoubt, but Mareave, Spiral, Necropolis, Sarvos, Madruga, and Feroz. The Grendel will not be spared, and neither will the Iron Confederacy.

The immediate effect will be similar to [[Foam and Spittle of the Furious Sea]] across the entire bay. [[Fleet|fleets]] across the Bay will suffer a two rank penalty for the season, no matter what action they are taking, and [[Navy|Navies]] in each territory will experience as many as 500 casualties between them. Worse than that, though, the storms will pound Sarvos, Apulian, Elos, Crown's Quay, Beoraidh, and the recovering coastal towns of the Brass Coast. The damage is likely to be comparable to that unleashed by the hurricane after the [[Every_time_it_rains|Great Drought]] of 384YE.

There are two ways that this threat might be headed off. The first is to make sure nobody casts a Spring magic [[enchantment]] or [[curse]] on Redoubt (or on the entire Empire) during the Spring Equinox. Anything that targets a territory will set the Ribbon of Salt off. There are no barbarian forces in Redoubt at the moment, so it seems unlikely to happen as long as nobody at Anvil decides to unleash the Ribbon. There are certainly those who might view the damage to the territories along the Bay of Catazar worth it to strike at the Grendel, even if it will also inflict significant harm both to the Empire and potentially diplomatic ties with the Iron Confederacy.

The other way is to release the power of the Ribbon of Salt more slowly and carefully. After some tense discussion, a collegium of [[stargazer|stargazers]] in spires along the coast believe that it would be possible to minimize the damage provided it were done carefully. Performing [[Regrow the Land's Heart]] targeting Redoubt normally would simply trigger the Ribbon of Salt. These stargazers are confident that if the enchantment is placed in a very precise fashion, however, it could "bleed off" the destructive potential of the regio. The performance will need a bowl filled with water extracted from the Ribbon of Salt immediately after one of its eruptions, when it is at its least dangerous. Fortunately the people of Visten are able to provide this, and have at some minor inconvenience sent a flask of seawater to '''Thalia of Netherwatch''', the [[Senator]] for Redoubt. 8 rings of ilium will be needed, placed in the bowl and consumed as part of the performance. The actual casting itself will need a clear invocation of the Stork and, crucially, [[the Fountain]]. If everything is done correctly, the stargazers believe damage from the Spring regio will be mitigated.

The nature of ''Regrow the Land's Heart'' is to reduce the scars of violence. The Ribbon of Salt will still erupt, will still spread Spring magic across the Bay of Catazar, but the influence of this particular gentle magic under the influence of the Fountain, would bleed off a significant portion of its destructive potential. There would still be penalties to fleets, but the damage to navies would be halved, and the threat to towns along the coast would be much reduced. While there would still be some damage and loss of life, the amount would be significantly minimized.

Do nothing and trust the Empire, and the threat will fade. Set the Ribbon of Salt off intentionally, but ensure the damage is reduced. The lesson of the Stork is that ''things matter'', and that even seemingly simple decisions can have far-reaching consequences.

===Mitwold===
* '''Blood seeps from the soil around the Pale Chain
* '''The heirs of Red Walder have been seen in the area
Mitwold [[Where_the_slow_river_flows|remains an active warzone]]. The [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#The_Battle_of_Wayford|dramatic impact]] of Rivers of Life, where waterspouts erupted from the river during the Battle of Wayford have been widely recounted in the days since. Overshadowed by the dramatic events, a more subtle effect almost goes unremarked. In several places around Mitwold, primarily in the vicinity of old battlefields, a liquid very similar to fresh blood seeps from the earth itself. It seems harmless - unsettling rather than dangerous - and it is no less effective at healing wounds than the waters that have been flowing naturally through the central [[the Marches|Marches]] since the Winter Solstice.

There is however one location where this seems to be an exception. A [[landskeeper]] from [[Mitwold#Wayford|Wayford]] who keeps a weather eye on the [[Mitwold#The_Pale_Chain|Pale Chain]] standing stone recounts a worrying event. According to their story, on the night of the last new moon before the Spring Equinox they found the stone itself weeping a thick red bloody fluid that pooled on the ground around the monolith. Given what it is that the Pale Chain contains, the landskeeper found this quite alarming for obvious reasons. They marked in particular the brightness of the stars that make up [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|the Key]] on the night the blood flowed. Worst of all, they report ''something'' emerging from the blood-sodden mud around the stone.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=House Guildenstern.png|caption=House Guildenstern|align=right|width=250}}</div>
Before they gathered the confidence to investigate, they realised they were not alone. Three other figures had arrived on the scene, bickering quietly among themselves. The landskeeper recognised one of them as ''Jyll Longleys'' - flax farmer, inveterate gossip... and the daughter of the wicked old bandit Red Walder. They deduced from this that the other two were her brother ''Bill of Beatsdown'' and that dusty old poacher ''Cobb'' who styles himself a priest. Outnumbered, the landskeeper could only watch as they egged each other on to get closer to the Pale Chain, pulled some ... things... out of the ground, and got the hell out of there like [[Tharim]] himself was on their trail. The landskeeper in question beat a hasty retreat as well, and by the time they returned next morning with some doughty youths from [[The_Marches_groups#House_Guildenstern|House Guildenstern]] there was no sign of anything amiss at the stone.

It's not clear what has actually happened here. It's possible that the Bound King of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] will know. There's also some kind of connection between the rock and the Guidldensterns, so its not impossible they might have some idea what is going on. Then there's, '''Claudia Varkulova Remislav''', openly favoured by ''Tharim'', but who is brave enough to ask impertinent questions of someone the ''King in Chains'' thinks of fondly? Regardless, this is an ill omen indeed, and those who know the history of the place know that nothing good can come of it. No-one should want the apples shaken from that particular tree indeed.

===Bregasland===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OakIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''A new woodland has appeared between Gravenmarch and the Rushes
* '''Graven Rock is echoing with unsettling resonances
In Bregasland the influence of Rivers of Life was markedly less dramatic than elsewhere... right up until a brand new woodland erupted on the border between [[Bregasland#Gravenmarch|Gravenmarch]] and [[Bregasland#The_Rushes|the Rushes]]. As well as the trees rising in a single night, which at least some magicians speculate may be a result of the Rivers of Life running awry, there appears to be a strange resonance echoing through Graven Rock. The three things - Spring curse, sudden trees, and echoing rock - may be connected or they may not but... it'll be a heck of a coincidence if they aren't.

Marcher landskeepers cautiously suggest that [[Eye of the High Places]] may discover more information, and are concerned about what these changes might portend. By contrast several [[mummer|mummers]] are of the opinion that [[Dreams in the Witch House]] may turn out to be a more useful [[divination]] given the mysterious nature of events here, and are less concerned than excited about what might be going on. Already dramatisations of the Battle of the Moving Forest are being discussed, with enthusiastic plans for how exactly to make an entire woodland appear on stage as if by magic.

==A Malachite Casket==
{{CaptionedImage|file=The Lock.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Painted Caves in Miekarova have been hidden by magical mists
For the last three months, the [[Miekarova#Painted Caves|Painted Caves]] of [[Miekarova]] have been hidden by magical mists. As mentioned by the [[Thule]], this is particularly notable because the Caves are in [[Miekarova#Mieriada|Mieriada]], the [[territory#regions|region]] of [[Miekarova]] ceded by the [[Senate]]. [[Varushka|Varushkan]] travellers are still able to come-and-go relatively freely through the Thule-held regions of their nation, but since the Winter Solstice they have been warned away from the caves. A few adventurous types - [[volhov]] mostly - still pushed through and took a look at the fog that all the fuss was about. Their discoveries have slowly percolated through Miekarova, told over supper late at night or shared around a campfire when travellers meet.

Many people have heard how the nearby hills are shrouded in thick mists, and that the shadows darken around the paths leading to, and the entrances into, the Painted Caves and darkens the shadows around the paths leading to, and the entrances into, the Painted Caves of Mieriada. What is less well known - at least until this volhov have their poke about - is that those who attempt to find their way into the caves despite this discouragement quickly find themselves lost, or inexplicably turned around. Strange lights and noises in the mists lead them astray, or they talk of hearing familiar voices or even phantasms of loved ones calling them to step from the path. Those who press on regardless say they encountered horrors drawn from their darkest nightmares that caused even the doughtiest of them to flee - and become lost in the mists. Even those able to stick to the path due to sheer willpower (or lack of imagination) found themselves travelling for hours or even days, only to find themselves, exhausted and confused, back where they started. As near as the volhov could tell, while the misty magic continued nobody could actually reach or enter the Painted Caves.

The simple [[detect magic#Divination|divinations]] that any volhov worth their salt can perform would only reveal that the effect surrounding the caves was the result of a potent [[Night magic]] ritual of magnitude 30 - one that could only be pierced or removed by significant [[Day magic]]. It seems clear that the Thule did not place this magic on the hills of Mieriada. There is some speculation of the involvement of the [[Night Below]], but as one explorer ruefully points out after being forcefully removed from the area by a Thule patrol, where ''Fly-the-Light'' is involved people very rarely if ever actually come back.

The Caves themselves have a long history, and a special significance for many Varushkans. Many people assume there is only one such cave - the largest in western Mieriada that are the only ones to have been extensively explored. In fact there are several clusters, all having in common great numbers of vibrant paintings, as bright today as they were when they were created. Some date back to a period long before the [[Varushka_history#Origins_of_Varushka|arrival of the Vard]], and as such they have special significance to some Varushkans who feel their Ushkan heritage more strongly. Perhaps more importantly from the Thule point of view, some of the caves contain [[regio]], usually connected to the realm of Night, associated with dreams and visions.

The Dragons have been very clear that they do not appreciate this magical effect. That alone attracts some interest among the people of Miekarova. Some assume it is a Varushkan coven thumbing their noses at the Thule who have claimed Miekarova. Of those, a few worry that this will cause trouble, but many others are very much in favour of this passive resistance to those they see as an occupying force. All of this would likely be moot, however, if not for one unlooked for circumstance brought about by the current magical chaos that seems to be swirling around the Empire.
===Things Can Be Hidden===
* '''The Malachite Casket ritual can be empowered by invoking the constellation of the Lock to extend its duration to an entire year and make it harder to penetrate
* '''The Casket can be combined with ilium to make it permanent and impossible to remove without ruinous expense
The four stars of [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Lock]], the constellation that is sometimes called ''The First Ward'' in old [[cabalists|cabalist]] texts, burns bright in the sky over Varushka. It is neither a good omen nor a bad one; it speaks both to the sealing away of danger, and the way danger might lie in wait. It is also extensively evoked in magic that bars, wards, or defence... and with magic that conceals, prevents access to, or denies control over something.

During the Spring Equinox, if the ritual ''The Malachite Casket'' is cast again using the [[Regio#The_Imperial_Regio|Imperial Regio]] while the stars are visible in the sky, the casters may verbally evoke the power of the Lock as part of their performance. If they do so, then the resulting shroud will linger over the hills of Mieriada for an entire year and will be significantly harder to dispel. If they include 30 rings of ilium in the performance, it will become permanent and next to impossible to remove permanently without a ruinous investment of ilium in the counterspell. Obviously, if either of these options are taken it will anger the Thule.

But it will also send a message to those who want to see the orcs of Otkodov pushed back over the mountains that they are not alone.

==Winds of Clarity==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=ChaliceIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Chalice (Constellation)|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=ClawIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Claw (Constellation)|align=left|width=200}}</div>
* '''A ritual enchantment of the Day realm has been laid over Sermersuaq
* '''The lingering echoes of the Falconer and their dangerous scheme have been unravelled
* '''A sense of clarity and rationality has fallen over the territory
* '''There are lingering effects for characters whose personal resource is in Sermersuaq
There has been a great deal of unsettlement in [[Sermersuaq]] here in recent years - most recently through the influence of the entity known as the Falconer. Their connection to [[the Claw]], and the actions of their followers, resulted in a wave of violence spreading through the north-west of the Empire. Imperial heroes put a stop to their schemes, but the lingering effects remained.

After the Winter Solstice, an [[enchantment]] weaves itself into existence over the cold plains of northern Wintermark. Its effect is to draw the power of the [[Realms#Day|Day realm]] into alignment with the mortal world, with the intention of unravelling the lingering corruption caused by meddling with the [[constellations|constellation]] known as the ''[[the Claw]]''. In this, it has been entirely effective. The last echoes of the Falconer's influence has been torn asunder not only in Sermersuaq, but as the days start to lengthen toward Spring, across the rest of the north-western Empire. While the remnants of the monoliths the Falconer's brood attempted to raise still dot the plains, there is no power in or around them. They are simply stones, unconnected to each other or to the heavens above
In the night skies over Sermersuaq, the four stars of the Claw seem almost imperceptibly dimmer. By contrast, the six stars of [[the Chalice]] seem to burn ever brighter.

The enchantment brings with it a sense of calm and rationality. Subtle Day magic flows through the skies and waters of the territory, as pools, lakes, and rivers become particularly clear. The magic is most obvious in the winds, though, which are particularly bracing, and bring with them a sense of wellbeing and clarity. It feels good to be outdoors, even in Winter. The air is crisp and fresh, and it is hard not to spend time speculating objectively on ones situation, and ones problems. Where action is called for, it becomes each to spend a moment thinking through the best course to take, and to put those plans into operation.

It also opens the way for encounters with the forces of the Day Realm. Anyone spending time in Sermersuaq this season may well have encountered an unexpected Day regio, or met with [[Inhabitants of the realms#heralds|heralds]] of [[Roshanwe]], [[Zakalwe]], and [[Ylenwe]]. These encounters will not be dramatic; instead they represent opportunities to discuss problems, personal quests, or matters of conflict with a sympathetic ear that offers good counsel.
===Sermersuaq Participation===
{{CaptionedImage|file=StorkIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Characters from Sermersuaq will experience the roleplaying effects of Day rituals more keenly
* '''Characters whose personal resource is in Sermersuaq receive a source of spiritual strength from Day magic personal enchantments
Some of the effects of this powerful magic linger still. Anyone from Sermersuaq - whose [[personal resource]] is in that territory - will find that the [[roleplaying effects]] of any [[:Category:Day ritual|Day rituals]] cast on them are more pronounced, more immediate and impactful. Enchantments of Day magic that don't normally create a roleplaying effect cause a target from Sermersuaq to experience one anyway: ''you feel calm, collected and clear-headed. Although pressing matters have not lost their importance, you feel an urge to consider all your options before taking action especially if it may lead to serious consequences.''

While a character from Sermersuaq bears ''any'' character enchantment created with Day magic, they can be use it as a [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|source of spiritual strength]] to overcome other roleplaying effects, in the same manner as an [[anointing]] can. Note that this does ''not'' apply with enchantments that target resources or armies - while those roleplaying effects are pronounced they are not focused enough on the individual to grant the source of spiritual strength.

Finally, any character from Sermersuaq who looks at the night sky may be left with the impression that the stars that make up [[the Stork]] constellation are shining especially brightly.

==The Wanderer's Pilgrimage==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; margin: 10px;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Phoenix2.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Stallion2.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Web2.png|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
* '''The Wanderer has continued to move through the night sky passing through and interacting with various constellations as it does'''
* '''In previous interactions, tulpas of the constellations manifested which were somehow combined with the Wanderer's influence'''
* '''The Wanderer is currently in conjunction with The Phoenix, The Web, and The Stallion and may manifest The Pilgrim Flame sometime during the Spring Equinox'''

[[The Wanderer]] has continued to move through the night sky with seemingly more purpose than usual, passing through and interacting with various constellations as it does. Shortly before the Summer Solstice of 387YE, it passed through both [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Lock]] and [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|the Key]], pausing briefly at each, as if adding an additional star to the constellations. This interaction was felt throughout the Empire in small but subtle ways, but the constellations manifested tulpas which seemed to combine the Wanderer - in this case creating ''The Lock's Flame'' and ''The Key's Flame'' - all of which also called themselves The Pilgrim Flame.

The same thing happened during the Autumn Equinox of 387YE, but that time it was with [[The Chalice]] and [[The Claw]], the tulpas of which caused a moderate amount of chaos at the Varushkan Night Market limited only by the laws of hospitality. Even tulpas, it seems, are subject to [[Varushka_hearth_magic#Hospitality|Varushkan hospitality]].

Over Winter, the Wanderer moved through empty sky, but this season it has moved in conjunction with [[The Phoenix]], [[The Web]], and [[The Stallion]]. Astronomancers expect another manifestation of The Pilgrim Flame in Anvil, if it keeps to the expected pattern.

===Pilgrimage Participation===
Any player is free to roleplay that their character has been affected by the strange conjunctions of the Wanderer The Phoenix, The Web, and The Stallion. Most of the effects are subtle but you can roleplay that you have been affected by one of the effects being experienced across the Empire:

* An increase in the number of accidental fires and cases of arson across the Empire.
* Academic and scholarly debates have grown more intense while pushing the boundaries of their subjects, with some individuals being so passionate that they have resorted to brief moments physical of violence.
* People finding that they are bonding more quickly with new acquaintances
* Hidden connections between individuals, such as a secret lover or a corrupted official, are sometimes becoming known about by those they most affect through increasingly unlikely coincidences.
* Some individuals in positions of authority, from local officials to Imperial title holders, have reported restless dreams about the stresses of their position.

==The Stars are Wrong==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=DoorIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Territory-scale magic is much more likely to have additional unlooked for effects when performed at the Spring Equinox
* '''These effects will never invalidate the listed mechanical effect of a ritual
During the Spring Equinox, the power of the astronomantic constellations appears focused on the Empire, and on Anvil in particular. For centuries astronomancers have argued about whether the stars influence events, or whether they merely reflect them. Right now, it appears that both interpretations might be true, at least during this unprecedented conjunction. Anvil is the heart of the Empire where decisions are made that effect every Imperial citizen; the conjunction reflects this. Yet the influence of the stars is also having a warping effect on the Empire. In particular it is effecting Imperial magic.

Any ritual that targets a territory or the Empire performed during the Spring Equinox is much more likely to have unexpected effects. All magic used on the territory scale can have unlooked for side effects - circumstances constantly influence what happens and all such rituals are mentioned in the winds of fortune or the winds of war (or both). This season, those side effects will be much more pronounced. They will never prevent the ritual having its mechanical effects; that will always happen as described in the appropriate ritual. But just as the [[#Rivers of Chaos|Rivers of Life curse]] has had additional strange consequences wherever it was cast last season, so any rituals cast this season are likely to have unpredictable effects.

Things go awry

2026-06-10T18:07:58Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Things Revealed */ Fixing the Locks link (hopefully)

[[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<ic>Calun found his friend sat on the seat under the old oak, his gaze fixed resolutely on the ground between his boots. The usually exuberant landskeepers apprentice seems as subdued and introspective as Calun had ever seen him.

"'Everything alright, mate?" he asked. He held a roll under his nose and moved it back and forth slightly. Yain took the roll without looking up, and bit into it, his eyes shifting to Calun's boots.

"Calun... have you ever heard the sun singing?" Yain sounded very, very worried.

"You what mate?" It sounded stupid but it was all Calun could think to say.

"The sun. Have you ever heard it... singing?" The other young man sounded to be on the verge of tears. "Have you ever heard tell of anyone else saying they heard it singing?"

"Uh... no. No mate I haven't. Look have you been... at something? Master Padrig's special stash of potions maybe?"

Glumly, Yain shook his head. "I had some old cheese with breakfast. Do you reckon that might be it?"

"It could be, it could be. Where's Master Padrig?"

Yain gestured vaguely behind him.

"I can still hear it," he whispered as he finished the roll. "It's really loud Calun. I keep wanting to look at it to see if it has a face, even though I know it definitely doesn't and if I do look at it I'll go blind. What am I gonna do, mate?"

Calun felt his stomach do a backflip at the despair in Yain's voice, but kept his voice steady.

"What we're gonna do, marra, is we're going to go find Master Padrig and once he's had a look at you, I'm going to go get chirurgeon Alice, and together we're going to work out what's wrong and how it can be fixed."

He put one hand reassuringly on Yain's shoulder, and squeezed until his friend nodded a few times, acknowledging the plan.

"But first," said Calun, shaking the breadcrumbs and bits of torn lettuce out of the bag that had until recently held his lunch. "First we're going to put this sack over your head to make sure you don't do yourself an injury."</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WandererIllustrationInk.JPG|caption=The stars are very bright tonight... but are they quite what they seem?|align=right|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
Not long before the Winter Solstice, [[What regulates the wheel?|magical chaos]] seeped into Anvil. The Imperial regio lost a portion of its power, some ritual magic had unexpected effects, and covens from individual nations discovered they were able to cooperate with one another like never before.

A great deal of [[divination]] was performed to try and unravel what has happened. Rumour can run twice round Anvil before the truth has shaken the sleep from its eyes, as the saying goes; the most common speculation involves an unprecedented conjunction of [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]]. Gossip suggests that the [[Astral Arcanist]] '''Serenus Starsong''' has rallied their peers, some of the finest experts in the magic of the heavens, toward finding a solution. Mind you, there is ''also'' speculation that this shift in the Imperial regio and the other chaotic magical events unfolding over the Empire are in fact the ''fault'' of a powerful cabal of astronomancers, lead by the Astral Arcanist, who plan to usurp control of the Empire in the service of the pitiless stars.

Whatever else is going on, the magical chaos at least seems to be getting worse. There are stories from across the Empire of magical rituals going awry. They still ''work'', they still do what they are meant to do, but it seems that isn't ''all'' they are doing.
==Wounded Regio==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreatWyrmnowingsIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''It remains impossible to enhance ritual lore using the Imperial regio
* '''Other properties of the Imperial regio are unchanged
The Imperial regio at Anvil remains... [[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Broken_Regio|broken]]. The situation does not seem to have improved from the Spring Equinox but, at least, it has not grown any worse. To recap, the key power that so many Imperial magicians have relied on for nearly four centuries remains inaccessible. Since it was first discovered, the Imperial regio has been used to enhance [[rituals]] cast within it. Harnessing its power allowed ritual magicians to improve their [[Magical skills#Ritual lores|realm lore]] to allow them to perform more powerful magic. This property does not seem to be available; attempts to draw on that power simply find... nothing.

In other respects, the regio continues to function as normal. It still allows rituals that in other circumstances would require ten minutes to cast to instead be performed in five minutes. It is still a "strong regio", connected to all six realms of magic. Rituals that must be performed at a strong regio can still be performed using the Imperial regio, and it still remains connected to every Imperial territory. It can still be used in conjunction with the [[Citadel Guard]] to focus magic and channel rituals through the Urizen [[army]]. Bargains with [[eternal|eternals]] that allow magicians to use [[operate portal]] to send or receive boons function normally although its not clear exactly ''how'' they are working. Rituals that specifically require the Imperial regio to work such as [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] still operate normally.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Serenus Starsong.jpg|caption='''Serenus Starsong''', Astral Arcanist|align=right|width=250}}
===Using the Imperial Regio===
Magicians who use the regio to target a [[territory]] in the Empire, or to [[Enchantment|enchant]] an Imperial [[army]], experiences a supernatural sense of the importance of what they are doing. Unless the maintain strict focus, it is easy to become distracted with thoughts of the potential consequences of their magic no matter how unlikely they may be. Each act of powerful magic seems to have additional significance, and it is easy to begin second-guessing whether ''this'' is the right time to perform ''this'' ritual on ''this'' target. Those given to introspection might experience visionary flashes in which they seem to observe the outcome of the ritual playing out around them in real time. Any player casting a ritual on a territory or army is encouraged to review any description of that ritual on the wiki, and use that to inspire flashes of how the magic might cause unexpected outcomes.

The same effect is experienced by anyone using the Citadel Guard connection to perform magic, but in addition they feel a physical connection to the Urizeni that make up that army. They may experience flashes of displacement that cause them to imagine for a moment they are a soldier in the army, or they may experience sensory phantoms related to the territory. The Citadel Guard are in [[Sarangrave]] at the moment - sensory phantoms might include the smell of marshland, the sound of desperate battle, the taste of army rations tinged with blood, a sensation of being drenched to the skin regardless of the actual weather, or an echo of fear and dread reminiscent of the [[Druj miasma|miasma]] that covers lands claimed by the Druj. These phantoms persist for a few minutes after the ritual is completed.
==Common Cause==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=ChainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=ThreeSistersIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''During the Spring Equinox covens can cooperate with other covens in their own nation without needing additional assistance
It is not ''all'' bad news. The effects marked by [[Astronomancy|Astronomancers]] before the Winter solstice, allowing different covens within the same nation to cooperate when casting powerful rituals, still persists. Any coven can work with any other coven or covens from their own nation without needing anything to facilitate it. Of course the universal magical law that prevents covens and magicians from ''different nations'' cooperating are still in place, and these limitations show absolutely no sign of weakening.
{{Anchor|Participation: Working Together}}
<br><br>'''<big>Participation: Working Together'''</big><br>
During the Spring Equinox any number of covens from the same nation can work together to perform a ritual as if they were using the [[Archmage#Belt_of_Stars|Belt of Stars]]. Cooperative rituals count as a daily ritual use by every coven involved. While they may be performing a ritual together, they are still treated as separate covens for all other purposes (for example, a ritual that affects an entire coven will only affect one target coven). Each coven can use their own paraphernalia while performing this joint ritual. The effects of the [[Volhov's Robe]] seem to be unchanged; they still allow a magician who is not part of a coven to work with any other coven without difficulty.

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Drowning Shepherd==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=DrownedManIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''It is currently impossible to create arcane projections that curse an individual'''
* '''Arcane projections that create a personal curse issued before Winter 386YE no longer work'''
* '''Arcane projections created after that data, that curse a character, cannot be cast after this event'''
* '''During the Spring Equinox Arcane projections that create personal curses can be unravelled for ten mana'''
* '''After the Spring Equinox, no arcane projection that creates a personal curse will work'''
For some time, [[the Drowned Shepherd]] has been exerting - or reflecting - a twisting effect on Imperial magic even before the current unprecedented conjunction. This is a dangerous constellation, often invoked in magic that creates [[curse|curses]] or destruction, and it was the last to be uncovered by the recent project to learn the names of the stars. For some time now, it has been impossible to complete an [[arcane projection]] that creates a personal [[curse]] - a curse that targets an individual. Furthermore, as magicians of the [[Unfettered Mind]] have been warning for a while, it is becoming increasingly difficult to perform arcane projections that create a personal curse. Existing arcane projections that have allowed such magic to be performed have likewise been corroding and unravelling. The magic bound into these arcane projections has become scrambled - an effect that cannot be reversed.

As of the end of the Spring Equinox, any arcane projection that creates a personal curse can no longer be cast. Personal curse arcane projections created issued before Winter 386YE (the start of 2025) are already non-functional. It is still possible to salvage such an arcane projection before its power fails entirely, as first noted in [[The_moth_for_the_star#An_Unravelling|Autumn last year]]. Any arcane projection that creates a curse on a character, can be brought to [[GOD]] and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange arcane projections that create such curses in this way will persist until the end of this event. After the end of the Spring Equinox it will no longer be possible to either cast arcane projections that deal with personal curses, or to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana.

The only good news is that it seems this unravelling is settling down - at least with regard to personal curses. Members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] are cautiously optimistic that whatever has been going on with curses aimed at individuals is resolving itself and that it should soon be possible to create arcane projections that cause trouble for other people again. Although what form such projections will take is a matter for speculation - after a similar effect befell arcane projections relating to the enchantment of armies, soldiers, and ships the laws of magic subtly adjusted themselves to change the way such things were done.

'''OOC Note:''' You'll need to hand the arcane projection phys-rep over so we can mark it as inactive on our systems. We don't plan to reprint lost arcane projections for the event; if you have lost an arcane projection in downtime you can e-mail [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] after the event with the details of the missing projection and we'll do our best to replace it in time for the Autumn Equinox.

==Things Revealed==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Key and Spider.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Every Penumbral Veil and Vale of Shadows across the Empire has collapsed
* '''The interference with Imperial divinations has collapsed
* '''The influence of the Key and the Spider prevent shrouds forming over the Empire or adjacent territories
At the same time as the chaos at the Imperial regio was being reported, it was discovered that [[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Hidden Things|magical shrouds]] had settled not only over the Empire but over all adjoining territories as well. This included [[Bregasland]], [[Therunin]], and [[Liathaven]], the entire [[the Mallum|Mallum]], almost all of [[Otkodov]], and all [[Jotun]] lands the Empire has maps of - [[Skallahn]], [[Tromsa]], and [[Hordalant]]. During the Winter Solstice, the potent shroud over [[Casinea]] and the Imperial regio itself was broken with the [[Piercing Light of Revelation]].

The other shrouds persisted for a time, but it seems that the effect at Anvil was somehow the "lynchpin" of the entire effect. Within a week of the Winter Solstice, the unexplained shrouds disintegrated. Magicians across the Empire - and those venturing beyond its immediate borders - report that there is no sign of them. As the Spring Equinox approaches, however, it appears there is still a lingering effect, one that is almost completely opposite to that which created the magical shrouds in the first place. [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The Lock|the Lock]] is no longer bright in the skies over Casinea; instead [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Key]] and [[The_Spider_and_The_Web#The_Spider|the Spider]] now glitter with a certain perceptible presence. Their laws are "Things are watched by a hidden eye" and "things are revealed" and that seems very much to be the case.

During the Spring Equinox it is not possible to use ''any'' magic to create a shroud over a territory within, or adjacent to, the Empire. That covers all territories that can be reached by the Imperial regio but also those listed above - [[Skallahn]], the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and the rest. This effect is not just restricted to Imperial magicians either - it appears ''nobody'' can create shrouds on this scale. No ritual exists to do so in Imperial lore, but members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] are confident that even if there ''was'' a way to shroud an entire Empire with a single ritual, it too would not work.

'''OOC Note:''' Attempts by ''anyone'' to use magic that shrouds a territory or the Empire during the Spring Equinox will fail. It will remain impossible to create such effects until at least the start of the Summer Solstice. Rituals that shroud things on a smaller scale such as [[Vale of Shadows]], [[Incantation's Mystic Mask]], [[Masque of the Blinded Weaver]], or ''The Malachite Casket'' can be cast as normal.

==Star Dreams==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=PhoenixIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=The Web.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The astronomantic constellations are more pronounced in the night sky
* '''Folk everywhere are experiencing vivid dreams filled with images of the things the constellations represent
* '''Anyone who dreams can gain a burst of inspiration by describing their dream in vivid detail to someone else
Across the Empire, the astronomantic [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]] are more pronounced in the night sky. The stars that make up the constellations seem brighter and more vivid, and draw the eye. They also haunt peoples' nights - even the most mundane dream becomes a little more eerie when [[the Mountain]] or [[the Stork]] burns brightly, but without context, in a darkened sky. Likewise, actual images of the things the constellations are held to represent turn up in dreams much more often. A dream of a family wedding might be observed by [[the Three Sisters|three women]] who nobody else can see but who slowly close in around the dreamer. A business owners dream of serving a difficult customer may be made much more surreal by the presence of [[the Stork|great white birds]] infesting their shop. A dream of flying is much more intense as the dreamer imagines they have [[the Phoenix|great fiery wings]] which allow them to soar across the Empire high in the night sky.

This effect is much more pronounced at Anvil; even magical dreams and nightmares such as those caused by [[Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt]], or created through the [[Dedication#Dreams|dedication]] ceremony, will be influenced by constellations and images of the things they symbolise. Only those who do not dream - due to being [[excommunication|excommunicated]] for example - are untouched by this effect.

Peculiar and often unsettling as this is, it also brings with it a strange inspiration. Once during the Spring Equinox, any character can spend two minutes of appropriate roleplaying describing the dream they had last night to another character. Using this ability, you should include as much detail as possible, and the dream must include reference to one of the constellations. At the end of the two minutes, you recover either one spent [[heroic skills#hero|hero point]] or two spent points of personal mana. If you are interrupted during your dream explanation, the ability isn't wasted but you must start your time again. This includes someone walking away from your attempt to describe your dream to them.

Unlike most such abilities, this one ''can'' be used in dangerous circumstances such as a battle - although obviously attacking, defending yourself, or being hit disrupts your story of your dream. This ability is not available to anyone who is not able to dream, but it ''can'' be used by people who are experiencing magical dreams such as [[Sift the Dreamscape's Sands]] or ''Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt''.
{{CaptionedImage|file=StallionIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
===Ride the Noble Steed===
* '''The ritual ''Ride the Noble Steed'' has an additional effect during the Spring Equinox
One particular ritual that involves dreams seems to have been empowered in a peculiar way. [[Ride the Noble Steed]] normally provides two people with a dream of riding a horse, but during the Spring Equinox the dream is significantly more vivid. The horse is wilder, and the environment through which it rides more majestic and awe-inspiring. The dream always takes place under - or through - the night sky, and the horse itself seems particularly solid and potent.

Until sunset the day after experiencing this empowered dream, one of the two participants can use either [[Heroic_skills#Stay_With_Me|stay with me]] or [[Heroic_skills#Get_it_Together|get it together]] on the other participant, without spending a hero point. To use this ability they must include a reference to their shared dream, to the horse they rode, and to their relationship. Once this ability is invoked by one of the participants, the effect ends - its not possible for ''both'' participants to heal the other. It's also worth noting that its not possible to dream of riding the horse with more than one person - at least not without using a different ritual - and there are only so many magical dreams one can have in a night. If you are also enchanted with an effect such as [[Sift the Dreamscape's Sands]] you can't take advantage of the power granted by Ride the Noble Steed.

==Rivers of Chaos==
{{CaptionedImage|file=FountainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Rivers of Life curse has had additional unpredictable effects in the territories where it has been cast
* '''In Feroz opportunities exist to harness the power of the spell
* '''In Redoubt the curse has aggravated the Ribbon of Salt
* '''In Mitwold the curse has resulted in odd pools of blood-like liquid and some unsettling events around the Pale Chain
It's easy to forget that [[Rivers of Life]] is, just like [[Rivers Run Red]], a [[curse]] and not an [[enchantment]]. Imperial arcane scholars often tie this to its indiscriminate nature - it aids ones enemies as well as ones allies. The reality runs a little deeper than this; all [[Spring magic]] is indiscriminate to some degree. Just like Rivers Run Red, Rivers of Life works by metaphorically throwing open a door and allowing the [[Spring_magic#Healing_and_Vitality|healing and vitality]] of the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] to flood into a territory, just as Rivers Run Red does with the uncontrolled resonances of [[Spring magic#Venom|venom and sickness]]. The effects are generally beneficial, but only because mortals value life and healing over infection and sickness. This uncontrollable flow of magic means that, even more so than a large scale [[enchantment]], Rivers of Life can have widespread unpredictable effects in addition to restoring health to injured warriors. Soldiers fighting at the [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#The_Battle_of_Wayford|Battle of Wayford]] in [[Mitwold]] or [[Other_monstrous_geographies#The_End_of_Winter|assailing the Tower of the Skink]] in [[Sarangrave]] saw first hand the kind of [[spring magic#Chaos|chaos]] that can be stirred up alongside the healing power of Spring.
===Feroz===
* '''Rivers of Life in Feroz has fallen under the influence of the Stallion
* '''Farms can harness the burst of fertility this has provided by employing Strong Ox, Golden Sun
* '''The Dhomiro of Afar can improve the quality and health of their Herd with the use of Spring magic and ilium#
Feroz as a whole has known better years. Since the Grendel occupation was ended, it has slowly pulled itself back to its feet. This last season, [[Rivers of Life|healing rains]] fell across Feroz and brought with them the touch of rampant Spring magic. With the stars of [[the Stallion]] bright in the night sky, they have lead to a remarkable surge in the number of animals born across the territory, especially among the cattle of the [[Dhomiro of Afar#Herds of Afar|Herds of Afar]]. Farms across the territory look to be flourishing, and there is every promise of a fine harvest this year. Provided the lingering power of the "curse" is harnessed of course.

During the Spring Equinox, any [[farm]] in Feroz that was [[enchantment|enchanted]] with [[Blessing of New Spring]] at the Winter Solstice will provide an additional 18 rings at the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox. Thanks to a bumper crop, fuelled by the magic of Rivers of Life and the influence of the Stallion (or perhaps the Stallion simply reflects the fact that this magic is working across the territory).

The [[Dhomiro of Afar]] is in a more unique position however. Some of the hakima who have made a study of such things believe there is a way to harness this unlooked for bounty with the power of [[ilium|star metal]]. The ritual [[Fan the Flame of New Life]] is normally used on folk looking to start a family, but this season it could be used in a different way. If the Dhomiro of Afar has the ritual cast on themselves at the Spring Equinox, it could be made to have a much more significant, lingering effect.

The ritual would need to be performed at the Imperial regio, and would take five minutes to perform rather than the usual two. During the performance the constellation of the Stallion would need to be invoked by the contributors and the target alike. Finally, this ritual would also need six rings of ilium that would be consumed during the performance. At the climax of the ritual, the magic would be greatly enhanced and pass ''through'' the Dhomiro of Afar without touching them. Instead it would spread through the Herds they have [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion|dominion]] over, harnessing their fertility and dramatically increasing their numbers. If this complex plan is followed, the Herds of Afar will provide an additional 12 crowns of income each season going forward. ('''OOC Note:''' The enchantment would ''not'' have any effect on the Dhomiro of Afar).

===Redoubt===
{{CaptionedImage|file=MountainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Ribbon of Salt has become agitated
* '''If a territory- or Empire-scale curse or enchantment of Spring magic effects Redoubt during the Spring Equinox the Ribbon will erupt disastrously
* '''There is a possibility that the damage could be mitigated by unleashing the Ribbon under the influence of the Fountain
There are not many farms in Redoubt, but those few there are report that the [[Rivers of Life]] have brought with them the kind of fine, healthy growth that makes a farmer glad indeed. These farms lie in the lowlands, and the life-giving magic of the waters flows through irrigation ditches, falls in the rain itself, and promises a harvest that will be nothing short of remarkable... but there is also a note of caution. Star watchers and [[astronomancy|astronomancers]] have marked that [[the Mountain]] and [[the Stork]] seem to be coming into alignment above the mountains of Redoubt specifically. Worst of all, [[the Wanderer]] appears to be influencing this minor conjunction and that does not bode well. Especially given what lies just off the coast of the territory.

The [[Redoubt#Optarion|Ribbon of Salt]] in Redoubt is an unpredictable [[regio]] tied to the Spring realm. It lies beneath the surface of the Bay of Catazar near the spire of Visten in south-eastern Redoubt. Once or twice every week it "erupts" sending a massive waterspout several hundred feet into the air, sometimes with tragic consequences for those trying to make use of the regio. Some [[seer|seers]] warn that the spout has the potential to be even more destructive, and watch it uneasily whenever any large scale Spring magic is used in the territory. Indeed, the Children of Wrecks recently attempted to [[On_southern_sands#Objective:_Protect_the_Ribbon_of_Salt|harness its power]] to unleash a disaster on the shores of Redoubt, but the intervention of Imperial heroes put paid to their plans. For the last month, the eruptions of the Ribbon of Salt have increased in tempo. In the fortnight before the Spring Equinox, they are coming roughly once every eighteen hours or so. This is, obviously, a cause for some concern.

Several magicians from Visten visited the Ribbon immediately after one of the eruptions in the short period where they can be confident there is no danger. What they learned here intensifies concern into alarm. The regio is on the verge of some disastrous outpouring of Spring magic, prompted by the curse laid over the territory. Left to its own devices, it will eventually subside, spending its energy in these frequent outbursts of violent water. The potential danger is being exacerbated by - or possibly reflected in - the constellations that seem focused on Redoubt as the Spring Equinox draws closer. After the Equinox, the threat should pass and the eruptions become further and further apart.

Unless someone places a powerful Spring magical curse or enchantment over Redoubt of course. If that happens, the combination of even more Spring magic and the constellations will create a deadly resonance that will see the Ribbon of Salt explode. On the first full moon after the Equinox, when the tides are at their highest, a ripple of [[Spring magic#ruin|ruinous]] magic will pour out of the Ribbon of Salt and cause devastating Spring storms to crash against all the territories on the coast of the Bay of Catazar. Not only Redoubt, but Mareave, Spiral, Necropolis, Sarvos, Madruga, and Feroz. The Grendel will not be spared, and neither will the Iron Confederacy.

The immediate effect will be similar to [[Foam and Spittle of the Furious Sea]] across the entire bay. [[Fleet|fleets]] across the Bay will suffer a two rank penalty for the season, no matter what action they are taking, and [[Navy|Navies]] in each territory will experience as many as 500 casualties between them. Worse than that, though, the storms will pound Sarvos, Apulian, Elos, Crown's Quay, Beoraidh, and the recovering coastal towns of the Brass Coast. The damage is likely to be comparable to that unleashed by the hurricane after the [[Every_time_it_rains|Great Drought]] of 384YE.

There are two ways that this threat might be headed off. The first is to make sure nobody casts a Spring magic [[enchantment]] or [[curse]] on Redoubt (or on the entire Empire) during the Spring Equinox. Anything that targets a territory will set the Ribbon of Salt off. There are no barbarian forces in Redoubt at the moment, so it seems unlikely to happen as long as nobody at Anvil decides to unleash the Ribbon. There are certainly those who might view the damage to the territories along the Bay of Catazar worth it to strike at the Grendel, even if it will also inflict significant harm both to the Empire and potentially diplomatic ties with the Iron Confederacy.

The other way is to release the power of the Ribbon of Salt more slowly and carefully. After some tense discussion, a collegium of [[stargazer|stargazers]] in spires along the coast believe that it would be possible to minimize the damage provided it were done carefully. Performing [[Regrow the Land's Heart]] targeting Redoubt normally would simply trigger the Ribbon of Salt. These stargazers are confident that if the enchantment is placed in a very precise fashion, however, it could "bleed off" the destructive potential of the regio. The performance will need a bowl filled with water extracted from the Ribbon of Salt immediately after one of its eruptions, when it is at its least dangerous. Fortunately the people of Visten are able to provide this, and have at some minor inconvenience sent a flask of seawater to '''Thalia of Netherwatch''', the [[Senator]] for Redoubt. 8 rings of ilium will be needed, placed in the bowl and consumed as part of the performance. The actual casting itself will need a clear invocation of the Stork and, crucially, [[the Fountain]]. If everything is done correctly, the stargazers believe damage from the Spring regio will be mitigated.

The nature of ''Regrow the Land's Heart'' is to reduce the scars of violence. The Ribbon of Salt will still erupt, will still spread Spring magic across the Bay of Catazar, but the influence of this particular gentle magic under the influence of the Fountain, would bleed off a significant portion of its destructive potential. There would still be penalties to fleets, but the damage to navies would be halved, and the threat to towns along the coast would be much reduced. While there would still be some damage and loss of life, the amount would be significantly minimized.

Do nothing and trust the Empire, and the threat will fade. Set the Ribbon of Salt off intentionally, but ensure the damage is reduced. The lesson of the Stork is that ''things matter'', and that even seemingly simple decisions can have far-reaching consequences.

===Mitwold===
* '''Blood seeps from the soil around the Pale Chain
* '''The heirs of Red Walder have been seen in the area
Mitwold [[Where_the_slow_river_flows|remains an active warzone]]. The [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#The_Battle_of_Wayford|dramatic impact]] of Rivers of Life, where waterspouts erupted from the river during the Battle of Wayford have been widely recounted in the days since. Overshadowed by the dramatic events, a more subtle effect almost goes unremarked. In several places around Mitwold, primarily in the vicinity of old battlefields, a liquid very similar to fresh blood seeps from the earth itself. It seems harmless - unsettling rather than dangerous - and it is no less effective at healing wounds than the waters that have been flowing naturally through the central [[the Marches|Marches]] since the Winter Solstice.

There is however one location where this seems to be an exception. A [[landskeeper]] from [[Mitwold#Wayford|Wayford]] who keeps a weather eye on the [[Mitwold#The_Pale_Chain|Pale Chain]] standing stone recounts a worrying event. According to their story, on the night of the last new moon before the Spring Equinox they found the stone itself weeping a thick red bloody fluid that pooled on the ground around the monolith. Given what it is that the Pale Chain contains, the landskeeper found this quite alarming for obvious reasons. They marked in particular the brightness of the stars that make up [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|the Key]] on the night the blood flowed. Worst of all, they report ''something'' emerging from the blood-sodden mud around the stone.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=House Guildenstern.png|caption=House Guildenstern|align=right|width=250}}</div>
Before they gathered the confidence to investigate, they realised they were not alone. Three other figures had arrived on the scene, bickering quietly among themselves. The landskeeper recognised one of them as ''Jyll Longleys'' - flax farmer, inveterate gossip... and the daughter of the wicked old bandit Red Walder. They deduced from this that the other two were her brother ''Bill of Beatsdown'' and that dusty old poacher ''Cobb'' who styles himself a priest. Outnumbered, the landskeeper could only watch as they egged each other on to get closer to the Pale Chain, pulled some ... things... out of the ground, and got the hell out of there like [[Tharim]] himself was on their trail. The landskeeper in question beat a hasty retreat as well, and by the time they returned next morning with some doughty youths from [[The_Marches_groups#House_Guildenstern|House Guildenstern]] there was no sign of anything amiss at the stone.

It's not clear what has actually happened here. It's possible that the Bound King of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] will know. There's also some kind of connection between the rock and the Guidldensterns, so its not impossible they might have some idea what is going on. Then there's, '''Claudia Varkulova Remislav''', openly favoured by ''Tharim'', but who is brave enough to ask impertinent questions of someone the ''King in Chains'' thinks of fondly? Regardless, this is an ill omen indeed, and those who know the history of the place know that nothing good can come of it. No-one should want the apples shaken from that particular tree indeed.

===Bregasland===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OakIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''A new woodland has appeared between Gravenmarch and the Rushes
* '''Graven Rock is echoing with unsettling resonances
In Bregasland the influence of Rivers of Life was markedly less dramatic than elsewhere... right up until a brand new woodland erupted on the border between [[Bregasland#Gravenmarch|Gravenmarch]] and [[Bregasland#The_Rushes|the Rushes]]. As well as the trees rising in a single night, which at least some magicians speculate may be a result of the Rivers of Life running awry, there appears to be a strange resonance echoing through Graven Rock. The three things - Spring curse, sudden trees, and echoing rock - may be connected or they may not but... it'll be a heck of a coincidence if they aren't.

Marcher landskeepers cautiously suggest that [[Eye of the High Places]] may discover more information, and are concerned about what these changes might portend. By contrast several [[mummer|mummers]] are of the opinion that [[Dreams in the Witch House]] may turn out to be a more useful [[divination]] given the mysterious nature of events here, and are less concerned than excited about what might be going on. Already dramatisations of the Battle of the Moving Forest are being discussed, with enthusiastic plans for how exactly to make an entire woodland appear on stage as if by magic.

==A Malachite Casket==
{{CaptionedImage|file=The Lock.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Painted Caves in Miekarova have been hidden by magical mists
For the last three months, the [[Miekarova#Painted Caves|Painted Caves]] of [[Miekarova]] have been hidden by magical mists. As mentioned by the [[Thule]], this is particularly notable because the Caves are in [[Miekarova#Mieriada|Mieriada]], the [[territory#regions|region]] of [[Miekarova]] ceded by the [[Senate]]. [[Varushka|Varushkan]] travellers are still able to come-and-go relatively freely through the Thule-held regions of their nation, but since the Winter Solstice they have been warned away from the caves. A few adventurous types - [[volhov]] mostly - still pushed through and took a look at the fog that all the fuss was about. Their discoveries have slowly percolated through Miekarova, told over supper late at night or shared around a campfire when travellers meet.

Many people have heard how the nearby hills are shrouded in thick mists, and that the shadows darken around the paths leading to, and the entrances into, the Painted Caves and darkens the shadows around the paths leading to, and the entrances into, the Painted Caves of Mieriada. What is less well known - at least until this volhov have their poke about - is that those who attempt to find their way into the caves despite this discouragement quickly find themselves lost, or inexplicably turned around. Strange lights and noises in the mists lead them astray, or they talk of hearing familiar voices or even phantasms of loved ones calling them to step from the path. Those who press on regardless say they encountered horrors drawn from their darkest nightmares that caused even the doughtiest of them to flee - and become lost in the mists. Even those able to stick to the path due to sheer willpower (or lack of imagination) found themselves travelling for hours or even days, only to find themselves, exhausted and confused, back where they started. As near as the volhov could tell, while the misty magic continued nobody could actually reach or enter the Painted Caves.

The simple [[detect magic#Divination|divinations]] that any volhov worth their salt can perform would only reveal that the effect surrounding the caves was the result of a potent [[Night magic]] ritual of magnitude 30 - one that could only be pierced or removed by significant [[Day magic]]. It seems clear that the Thule did not place this magic on the hills of Mieriada. There is some speculation of the involvement of the [[Night Below]], but as one explorer ruefully points out after being forcefully removed from the area by a Thule patrol, where ''Fly-the-Light'' is involved people very rarely if ever actually come back.

The Caves themselves have a long history, and a special significance for many Varushkans. Many people assume there is only one such cave - the largest in western Mieriada that are the only ones to have been extensively explored. In fact there are several clusters, all having in common great numbers of vibrant paintings, as bright today as they were when they were created. Some date back to a period long before the [[Varushka_history#Origins_of_Varushka|arrival of the Vard]], and as such they have special significance to some Varushkans who feel their Ushkan heritage more strongly. Perhaps more importantly from the Thule point of view, some of the caves contain [[regio]], usually connected to the realm of Night, associated with dreams and visions.

The Dragons have been very clear that they do not appreciate this magical effect. That alone attracts some interest among the people of Miekarova. Some assume it is a Varushkan coven thumbing their noses at the Thule who have claimed Miekarova. Of those, a few worry that this will cause trouble, but many others are very much in favour of this passive resistance to those they see as an occupying force. All of this would likely be moot, however, if not for one unlooked for circumstance brought about by the current magical chaos that seems to be swirling around the Empire.
===Things Can Be Hidden===
* '''The Malachite Casket ritual can be empowered by invoking the constellation of the Lock to extend its duration to an entire year and make it harder to penetrate
* '''The Casket can be combined with ilium to make it permanent and impossible to remove without ruinous expense
The four stars of [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Lock]], the constellation that is sometimes called ''The First Ward'' in old [[cabalists|cabalist]] texts, burns bright in the sky over Varushka. It is neither a good omen nor a bad one; it speaks both to the sealing away of danger, and the way danger might lie in wait. It is also extensively evoked in magic that bars, wards, or defence... and with magic that conceals, prevents access to, or denies control over something.

During the Spring Equinox, if the ritual ''The Malachite Casket'' is cast again using the [[Regio#The_Imperial_Regio|Imperial Regio]] while the stars are visible in the sky, the casters may verbally evoke the power of the Lock as part of their performance. If they do so, then the resulting shroud will linger over the hills of Mieriada for an entire year and will be significantly harder to dispel. If they include 30 rings of ilium in the performance, it will become permanent and next to impossible to remove permanently without a ruinous investment of ilium in the counterspell. Obviously, if either of these options are taken it will anger the Thule.

But it will also send a message to those who want to see the orcs of Otkodov pushed back over the mountains that they are not alone.

==Winds of Clarity==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=ChaliceIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Chalice (Constellation)|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=ClawIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Claw (Constellation)|align=left|width=200}}</div>
* '''A ritual enchantment of the Day realm has been laid over Sermersuaq
* '''The lingering echoes of the Falconer and their dangerous scheme have been unravelled
* '''A sense of clarity and rationality has fallen over the territory
* '''There are lingering effects for characters whose personal resource is in Sermersuaq
There has been a great deal of unsettlement in [[Sermersuaq]] here in recent years - most recently through the influence of the entity known as the Falconer. Their connection to [[the Claw]], and the actions of their followers, resulted in a wave of violence spreading through the north-west of the Empire. Imperial heroes put a stop to their schemes, but the lingering effects remained.

After the Winter Solstice, an [[enchantment]] weaves itself into existence over the cold plains of northern Wintermark. Its effect is to draw the power of the [[Realms#Day|Day realm]] into alignment with the mortal world, with the intention of unravelling the lingering corruption caused by meddling with the [[constellations|constellation]] known as the ''[[the Claw]]''. In this, it has been entirely effective. The last echoes of the Falconer's influence has been torn asunder not only in Sermersuaq, but as the days start to lengthen toward Spring, across the rest of the north-western Empire. While the remnants of the monoliths the Falconer's brood attempted to raise still dot the plains, there is no power in or around them. They are simply stones, unconnected to each other or to the heavens above
In the night skies over Sermersuaq, the four stars of the Claw seem almost imperceptibly dimmer. By contrast, the six stars of [[the Chalice]] seem to burn ever brighter.

The enchantment brings with it a sense of calm and rationality. Subtle Day magic flows through the skies and waters of the territory, as pools, lakes, and rivers become particularly clear. The magic is most obvious in the winds, though, which are particularly bracing, and bring with them a sense of wellbeing and clarity. It feels good to be outdoors, even in Winter. The air is crisp and fresh, and it is hard not to spend time speculating objectively on ones situation, and ones problems. Where action is called for, it becomes each to spend a moment thinking through the best course to take, and to put those plans into operation.

It also opens the way for encounters with the forces of the Day Realm. Anyone spending time in Sermersuaq this season may well have encountered an unexpected Day regio, or met with [[Inhabitants of the realms#heralds|heralds]] of [[Roshanwe]], [[Zakalwe]], and [[Ylenwe]]. These encounters will not be dramatic; instead they represent opportunities to discuss problems, personal quests, or matters of conflict with a sympathetic ear that offers good counsel.
===Sermersuaq Participation===
{{CaptionedImage|file=StorkIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Characters from Sermersuaq will experience the roleplaying effects of Day rituals more keenly
* '''Characters whose personal resource is in Sermersuaq receive a source of spiritual strength from Day magic personal enchantments
Some of the effects of this powerful magic linger still. Anyone from Sermersuaq - whose [[personal resource]] is in that territory - will find that the [[roleplaying effects]] of any [[:Category:Day ritual|Day rituals]] cast on them are more pronounced, more immediate and impactful. Enchantments of Day magic that don't normally create a roleplaying effect cause a target from Sermersuaq to experience one anyway: ''you feel calm, collected and clear-headed. Although pressing matters have not lost their importance, you feel an urge to consider all your options before taking action especially if it may lead to serious consequences.''

While a character from Sermersuaq bears ''any'' character enchantment created with Day magic, they can be use it as a [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|source of spiritual strength]] to overcome other roleplaying effects, in the same manner as an [[anointing]] can. Note that this does ''not'' apply with enchantments that target resources or armies - while those roleplaying effects are pronounced they are not focused enough on the individual to grant the source of spiritual strength.

Finally, any character from Sermersuaq who looks at the night sky may be left with the impression that the stars that make up [[the Stork]] constellation are shining especially brightly.

==The Wanderer's Pilgrimage==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; margin: 10px;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Phoenix2.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Stallion2.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Web2.png|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
* '''The Wanderer has continued to move through the night sky passing through and interacting with various constellations as it does'''
* '''In previous interactions, tulpas of the constellations manifested which were somehow combined with the Wanderer's influence'''
* '''The Wanderer is currently in conjunction with The Phoenix, The Web, and The Stallion and may manifest The Pilgrim Flame sometime during the Spring Equinox'''

[[The Wanderer]] has continued to move through the night sky with seemingly more purpose than usual, passing through and interacting with various constellations as it does. Shortly before the Summer Solstice of 387YE, it passed through both [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Lock]] and [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|the Key]], pausing briefly at each, as if adding an additional star to the constellations. This interaction was felt throughout the Empire in small but subtle ways, but the constellations manifested tulpas which seemed to combine the Wanderer - in this case creating ''The Lock's Flame'' and ''The Key's Flame'' - all of which also called themselves The Pilgrim Flame.

The same thing happened during the Autumn Equinox of 387YE, but that time it was with [[The Chalice]] and [[The Claw]], the tulpas of which caused a moderate amount of chaos at the Varushkan Night Market limited only by the laws of hospitality. Even tulpas, it seems, are subject to [[Varushka_hearth_magic#Hospitality|Varushkan hospitality]].

Over Winter, the Wanderer moved through empty sky, but this season it has moved in conjunction with [[The Phoenix]], [[The Web]], and [[The Stallion]]. Astronomancers expect another manifestation of The Pilgrim Flame in Anvil, if it keeps to the expected pattern.

===Pilgrimage Participation===
Any player is free to roleplay that their character has been affected by the strange conjunctions of the Wanderer The Phoenix, The Web, and The Stallion. Most of the effects are subtle but you can roleplay that you have been affected by one of the effects being experienced across the Empire:

* An increase in the number of accidental fires and cases of arson across the Empire.
* Academic and scholarly debates have grown more intense while pushing the boundaries of their subjects, with some individuals being so passionate that they have resorted to brief moments physical of violence.
* People finding that they are bonding more quickly with new acquaintances
* Hidden connections between individuals, such as a secret lover or a corrupted official, are sometimes becoming known about by those they most affect through increasingly unlikely coincidences.
* Some individuals in positions of authority, from local officials to Imperial title holders, have reported restless dreams about the stresses of their position.

==The Stars are Wrong==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=DoorIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Territory-scale magic is much more likely to have additional unlooked for effects when performed at the Spring Equinox
* '''These effects will never invalidate the listed mechanical effect of a ritual
During the Spring Equinox, the power of the astronomantic constellations appears focused on the Empire, and on Anvil in particular. For centuries astronomancers have argued about whether the stars influence events, or whether they merely reflect them. Right now, it appears that both interpretations might be true, at least during this unprecedented conjunction. Anvil is the heart of the Empire where decisions are made that effect every Imperial citizen; the conjunction reflects this. Yet the influence of the stars is also having a warping effect on the Empire. In particular it is effecting Imperial magic.

Any ritual that targets a territory or the Empire performed during the Spring Equinox is much more likely to have unexpected effects. All magic used on the territory scale can have unlooked for side effects - circumstances constantly influence what happens and all such rituals are mentioned in the winds of fortune or the winds of war (or both). This season, those side effects will be much more pronounced. They will never prevent the ritual having its mechanical effects; that will always happen as described in the appropriate ritual. But just as the [[#Rivers of Chaos|Rivers of Life curse]] has had additional strange consequences wherever it was cast last season, so any rituals cast this season are likely to have unpredictable effects.

Things go awry

2026-06-10T18:06:33Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Things Revealed */ Giving For and A some space

[[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<ic>Calun found his friend sat on the seat under the old oak, his gaze fixed resolutely on the ground between his boots. The usually exuberant landskeepers apprentice seems as subdued and introspective as Calun had ever seen him.

"'Everything alright, mate?" he asked. He held a roll under his nose and moved it back and forth slightly. Yain took the roll without looking up, and bit into it, his eyes shifting to Calun's boots.

"Calun... have you ever heard the sun singing?" Yain sounded very, very worried.

"You what mate?" It sounded stupid but it was all Calun could think to say.

"The sun. Have you ever heard it... singing?" The other young man sounded to be on the verge of tears. "Have you ever heard tell of anyone else saying they heard it singing?"

"Uh... no. No mate I haven't. Look have you been... at something? Master Padrig's special stash of potions maybe?"

Glumly, Yain shook his head. "I had some old cheese with breakfast. Do you reckon that might be it?"

"It could be, it could be. Where's Master Padrig?"

Yain gestured vaguely behind him.

"I can still hear it," he whispered as he finished the roll. "It's really loud Calun. I keep wanting to look at it to see if it has a face, even though I know it definitely doesn't and if I do look at it I'll go blind. What am I gonna do, mate?"

Calun felt his stomach do a backflip at the despair in Yain's voice, but kept his voice steady.

"What we're gonna do, marra, is we're going to go find Master Padrig and once he's had a look at you, I'm going to go get chirurgeon Alice, and together we're going to work out what's wrong and how it can be fixed."

He put one hand reassuringly on Yain's shoulder, and squeezed until his friend nodded a few times, acknowledging the plan.

"But first," said Calun, shaking the breadcrumbs and bits of torn lettuce out of the bag that had until recently held his lunch. "First we're going to put this sack over your head to make sure you don't do yourself an injury."</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WandererIllustrationInk.JPG|caption=The stars are very bright tonight... but are they quite what they seem?|align=right|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
Not long before the Winter Solstice, [[What regulates the wheel?|magical chaos]] seeped into Anvil. The Imperial regio lost a portion of its power, some ritual magic had unexpected effects, and covens from individual nations discovered they were able to cooperate with one another like never before.

A great deal of [[divination]] was performed to try and unravel what has happened. Rumour can run twice round Anvil before the truth has shaken the sleep from its eyes, as the saying goes; the most common speculation involves an unprecedented conjunction of [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]]. Gossip suggests that the [[Astral Arcanist]] '''Serenus Starsong''' has rallied their peers, some of the finest experts in the magic of the heavens, toward finding a solution. Mind you, there is ''also'' speculation that this shift in the Imperial regio and the other chaotic magical events unfolding over the Empire are in fact the ''fault'' of a powerful cabal of astronomancers, lead by the Astral Arcanist, who plan to usurp control of the Empire in the service of the pitiless stars.

Whatever else is going on, the magical chaos at least seems to be getting worse. There are stories from across the Empire of magical rituals going awry. They still ''work'', they still do what they are meant to do, but it seems that isn't ''all'' they are doing.
==Wounded Regio==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreatWyrmnowingsIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''It remains impossible to enhance ritual lore using the Imperial regio
* '''Other properties of the Imperial regio are unchanged
The Imperial regio at Anvil remains... [[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Broken_Regio|broken]]. The situation does not seem to have improved from the Spring Equinox but, at least, it has not grown any worse. To recap, the key power that so many Imperial magicians have relied on for nearly four centuries remains inaccessible. Since it was first discovered, the Imperial regio has been used to enhance [[rituals]] cast within it. Harnessing its power allowed ritual magicians to improve their [[Magical skills#Ritual lores|realm lore]] to allow them to perform more powerful magic. This property does not seem to be available; attempts to draw on that power simply find... nothing.

In other respects, the regio continues to function as normal. It still allows rituals that in other circumstances would require ten minutes to cast to instead be performed in five minutes. It is still a "strong regio", connected to all six realms of magic. Rituals that must be performed at a strong regio can still be performed using the Imperial regio, and it still remains connected to every Imperial territory. It can still be used in conjunction with the [[Citadel Guard]] to focus magic and channel rituals through the Urizen [[army]]. Bargains with [[eternal|eternals]] that allow magicians to use [[operate portal]] to send or receive boons function normally although its not clear exactly ''how'' they are working. Rituals that specifically require the Imperial regio to work such as [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] still operate normally.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Serenus Starsong.jpg|caption='''Serenus Starsong''', Astral Arcanist|align=right|width=250}}
===Using the Imperial Regio===
Magicians who use the regio to target a [[territory]] in the Empire, or to [[Enchantment|enchant]] an Imperial [[army]], experiences a supernatural sense of the importance of what they are doing. Unless the maintain strict focus, it is easy to become distracted with thoughts of the potential consequences of their magic no matter how unlikely they may be. Each act of powerful magic seems to have additional significance, and it is easy to begin second-guessing whether ''this'' is the right time to perform ''this'' ritual on ''this'' target. Those given to introspection might experience visionary flashes in which they seem to observe the outcome of the ritual playing out around them in real time. Any player casting a ritual on a territory or army is encouraged to review any description of that ritual on the wiki, and use that to inspire flashes of how the magic might cause unexpected outcomes.

The same effect is experienced by anyone using the Citadel Guard connection to perform magic, but in addition they feel a physical connection to the Urizeni that make up that army. They may experience flashes of displacement that cause them to imagine for a moment they are a soldier in the army, or they may experience sensory phantoms related to the territory. The Citadel Guard are in [[Sarangrave]] at the moment - sensory phantoms might include the smell of marshland, the sound of desperate battle, the taste of army rations tinged with blood, a sensation of being drenched to the skin regardless of the actual weather, or an echo of fear and dread reminiscent of the [[Druj miasma|miasma]] that covers lands claimed by the Druj. These phantoms persist for a few minutes after the ritual is completed.
==Common Cause==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=ChainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=ThreeSistersIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''During the Spring Equinox covens can cooperate with other covens in their own nation without needing additional assistance
It is not ''all'' bad news. The effects marked by [[Astronomancy|Astronomancers]] before the Winter solstice, allowing different covens within the same nation to cooperate when casting powerful rituals, still persists. Any coven can work with any other coven or covens from their own nation without needing anything to facilitate it. Of course the universal magical law that prevents covens and magicians from ''different nations'' cooperating are still in place, and these limitations show absolutely no sign of weakening.
{{Anchor|Participation: Working Together}}
<br><br>'''<big>Participation: Working Together'''</big><br>
During the Spring Equinox any number of covens from the same nation can work together to perform a ritual as if they were using the [[Archmage#Belt_of_Stars|Belt of Stars]]. Cooperative rituals count as a daily ritual use by every coven involved. While they may be performing a ritual together, they are still treated as separate covens for all other purposes (for example, a ritual that affects an entire coven will only affect one target coven). Each coven can use their own paraphernalia while performing this joint ritual. The effects of the [[Volhov's Robe]] seem to be unchanged; they still allow a magician who is not part of a coven to work with any other coven without difficulty.

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.

==Drowning Shepherd==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=DrownedManIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''It is currently impossible to create arcane projections that curse an individual'''
* '''Arcane projections that create a personal curse issued before Winter 386YE no longer work'''
* '''Arcane projections created after that data, that curse a character, cannot be cast after this event'''
* '''During the Spring Equinox Arcane projections that create personal curses can be unravelled for ten mana'''
* '''After the Spring Equinox, no arcane projection that creates a personal curse will work'''
For some time, [[the Drowned Shepherd]] has been exerting - or reflecting - a twisting effect on Imperial magic even before the current unprecedented conjunction. This is a dangerous constellation, often invoked in magic that creates [[curse|curses]] or destruction, and it was the last to be uncovered by the recent project to learn the names of the stars. For some time now, it has been impossible to complete an [[arcane projection]] that creates a personal [[curse]] - a curse that targets an individual. Furthermore, as magicians of the [[Unfettered Mind]] have been warning for a while, it is becoming increasingly difficult to perform arcane projections that create a personal curse. Existing arcane projections that have allowed such magic to be performed have likewise been corroding and unravelling. The magic bound into these arcane projections has become scrambled - an effect that cannot be reversed.

As of the end of the Spring Equinox, any arcane projection that creates a personal curse can no longer be cast. Personal curse arcane projections created issued before Winter 386YE (the start of 2025) are already non-functional. It is still possible to salvage such an arcane projection before its power fails entirely, as first noted in [[The_moth_for_the_star#An_Unravelling|Autumn last year]]. Any arcane projection that creates a curse on a character, can be brought to [[GOD]] and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange arcane projections that create such curses in this way will persist until the end of this event. After the end of the Spring Equinox it will no longer be possible to either cast arcane projections that deal with personal curses, or to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana.

The only good news is that it seems this unravelling is settling down - at least with regard to personal curses. Members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] are cautiously optimistic that whatever has been going on with curses aimed at individuals is resolving itself and that it should soon be possible to create arcane projections that cause trouble for other people again. Although what form such projections will take is a matter for speculation - after a similar effect befell arcane projections relating to the enchantment of armies, soldiers, and ships the laws of magic subtly adjusted themselves to change the way such things were done.

'''OOC Note:''' You'll need to hand the arcane projection phys-rep over so we can mark it as inactive on our systems. We don't plan to reprint lost arcane projections for the event; if you have lost an arcane projection in downtime you can e-mail [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] after the event with the details of the missing projection and we'll do our best to replace it in time for the Autumn Equinox.

==Things Revealed==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Key and Spider.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Every Penumbral Veil and Vale of Shadows across the Empire has collapsed
* '''The interference with Imperial divinations has collapsed
* '''The influence of the Key and the Spider prevent shrouds forming over the Empire or adjacent territories
At the same time as the chaos at the Imperial regio was being reported, it was discovered that [[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Hidden Things|magical shrouds]] had settled not only over the Empire but over all adjoining territories as well. This included [[Bregasland]], [[Therunin]], and [[Liathaven]], the entire [[the Mallum|Mallum]], almost all of [[Otkodov]], and all [[Jotun]] lands the Empire has maps of - [[Skallahn]], [[Tromsa]], and [[Hordalant]]. During the Winter Solstice, the potent shroud over [[Casinea]] and the Imperial regio itself was broken with the [[Piercing Light of Revelation]].

The other shrouds persisted for a time, but it seems that the effect at Anvil was somehow the "lynchpin" of the entire effect. Within a week of the Winter Solstice, the unexplained shrouds disintegrated. Magicians across the Empire - and those venturing beyond its immediate borders - report that there is no sign of them. As the Spring Equinox approaches, however, it appears there is still a lingering effect, one that is almost completely opposite to that which created the magical shrouds in the first place. [[The Key and the Lock#The Lock|the Lock]] is no longer bright in the skies over Casinea; instead [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Key]] and [[The_Spider_and_The_Web#The_Spider|the Spider]] now glitter with a certain perceptible presence. Their laws are "Things are watched by a hidden eye" and "things are revealed" and that seems very much to be the case.

During the Spring Equinox it is not possible to use ''any'' magic to create a shroud over a territory within, or adjacent to, the Empire. That covers all territories that can be reached by the Imperial regio but also those listed above - [[Skallahn]], the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and the rest. This effect is not just restricted to Imperial magicians either - it appears ''nobody'' can create shrouds on this scale. No ritual exists to do so in Imperial lore, but members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] are confident that even if there ''was'' a way to shroud an entire Empire with a single ritual, it too would not work.

'''OOC Note:''' Attempts by ''anyone'' to use magic that shrouds a territory or the Empire during the Spring Equinox will fail. It will remain impossible to create such effects until at least the start of the Summer Solstice. Rituals that shroud things on a smaller scale such as [[Vale of Shadows]], [[Incantation's Mystic Mask]], [[Masque of the Blinded Weaver]], or ''The Malachite Casket'' can be cast as normal.

==Star Dreams==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=PhoenixIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=The Web.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The astronomantic constellations are more pronounced in the night sky
* '''Folk everywhere are experiencing vivid dreams filled with images of the things the constellations represent
* '''Anyone who dreams can gain a burst of inspiration by describing their dream in vivid detail to someone else
Across the Empire, the astronomantic [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]] are more pronounced in the night sky. The stars that make up the constellations seem brighter and more vivid, and draw the eye. They also haunt peoples' nights - even the most mundane dream becomes a little more eerie when [[the Mountain]] or [[the Stork]] burns brightly, but without context, in a darkened sky. Likewise, actual images of the things the constellations are held to represent turn up in dreams much more often. A dream of a family wedding might be observed by [[the Three Sisters|three women]] who nobody else can see but who slowly close in around the dreamer. A business owners dream of serving a difficult customer may be made much more surreal by the presence of [[the Stork|great white birds]] infesting their shop. A dream of flying is much more intense as the dreamer imagines they have [[the Phoenix|great fiery wings]] which allow them to soar across the Empire high in the night sky.

This effect is much more pronounced at Anvil; even magical dreams and nightmares such as those caused by [[Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt]], or created through the [[Dedication#Dreams|dedication]] ceremony, will be influenced by constellations and images of the things they symbolise. Only those who do not dream - due to being [[excommunication|excommunicated]] for example - are untouched by this effect.

Peculiar and often unsettling as this is, it also brings with it a strange inspiration. Once during the Spring Equinox, any character can spend two minutes of appropriate roleplaying describing the dream they had last night to another character. Using this ability, you should include as much detail as possible, and the dream must include reference to one of the constellations. At the end of the two minutes, you recover either one spent [[heroic skills#hero|hero point]] or two spent points of personal mana. If you are interrupted during your dream explanation, the ability isn't wasted but you must start your time again. This includes someone walking away from your attempt to describe your dream to them.

Unlike most such abilities, this one ''can'' be used in dangerous circumstances such as a battle - although obviously attacking, defending yourself, or being hit disrupts your story of your dream. This ability is not available to anyone who is not able to dream, but it ''can'' be used by people who are experiencing magical dreams such as [[Sift the Dreamscape's Sands]] or ''Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt''.
{{CaptionedImage|file=StallionIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
===Ride the Noble Steed===
* '''The ritual ''Ride the Noble Steed'' has an additional effect during the Spring Equinox
One particular ritual that involves dreams seems to have been empowered in a peculiar way. [[Ride the Noble Steed]] normally provides two people with a dream of riding a horse, but during the Spring Equinox the dream is significantly more vivid. The horse is wilder, and the environment through which it rides more majestic and awe-inspiring. The dream always takes place under - or through - the night sky, and the horse itself seems particularly solid and potent.

Until sunset the day after experiencing this empowered dream, one of the two participants can use either [[Heroic_skills#Stay_With_Me|stay with me]] or [[Heroic_skills#Get_it_Together|get it together]] on the other participant, without spending a hero point. To use this ability they must include a reference to their shared dream, to the horse they rode, and to their relationship. Once this ability is invoked by one of the participants, the effect ends - its not possible for ''both'' participants to heal the other. It's also worth noting that its not possible to dream of riding the horse with more than one person - at least not without using a different ritual - and there are only so many magical dreams one can have in a night. If you are also enchanted with an effect such as [[Sift the Dreamscape's Sands]] you can't take advantage of the power granted by Ride the Noble Steed.

==Rivers of Chaos==
{{CaptionedImage|file=FountainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Rivers of Life curse has had additional unpredictable effects in the territories where it has been cast
* '''In Feroz opportunities exist to harness the power of the spell
* '''In Redoubt the curse has aggravated the Ribbon of Salt
* '''In Mitwold the curse has resulted in odd pools of blood-like liquid and some unsettling events around the Pale Chain
It's easy to forget that [[Rivers of Life]] is, just like [[Rivers Run Red]], a [[curse]] and not an [[enchantment]]. Imperial arcane scholars often tie this to its indiscriminate nature - it aids ones enemies as well as ones allies. The reality runs a little deeper than this; all [[Spring magic]] is indiscriminate to some degree. Just like Rivers Run Red, Rivers of Life works by metaphorically throwing open a door and allowing the [[Spring_magic#Healing_and_Vitality|healing and vitality]] of the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] to flood into a territory, just as Rivers Run Red does with the uncontrolled resonances of [[Spring magic#Venom|venom and sickness]]. The effects are generally beneficial, but only because mortals value life and healing over infection and sickness. This uncontrollable flow of magic means that, even more so than a large scale [[enchantment]], Rivers of Life can have widespread unpredictable effects in addition to restoring health to injured warriors. Soldiers fighting at the [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#The_Battle_of_Wayford|Battle of Wayford]] in [[Mitwold]] or [[Other_monstrous_geographies#The_End_of_Winter|assailing the Tower of the Skink]] in [[Sarangrave]] saw first hand the kind of [[spring magic#Chaos|chaos]] that can be stirred up alongside the healing power of Spring.
===Feroz===
* '''Rivers of Life in Feroz has fallen under the influence of the Stallion
* '''Farms can harness the burst of fertility this has provided by employing Strong Ox, Golden Sun
* '''The Dhomiro of Afar can improve the quality and health of their Herd with the use of Spring magic and ilium#
Feroz as a whole has known better years. Since the Grendel occupation was ended, it has slowly pulled itself back to its feet. This last season, [[Rivers of Life|healing rains]] fell across Feroz and brought with them the touch of rampant Spring magic. With the stars of [[the Stallion]] bright in the night sky, they have lead to a remarkable surge in the number of animals born across the territory, especially among the cattle of the [[Dhomiro of Afar#Herds of Afar|Herds of Afar]]. Farms across the territory look to be flourishing, and there is every promise of a fine harvest this year. Provided the lingering power of the "curse" is harnessed of course.

During the Spring Equinox, any [[farm]] in Feroz that was [[enchantment|enchanted]] with [[Blessing of New Spring]] at the Winter Solstice will provide an additional 18 rings at the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox. Thanks to a bumper crop, fuelled by the magic of Rivers of Life and the influence of the Stallion (or perhaps the Stallion simply reflects the fact that this magic is working across the territory).

The [[Dhomiro of Afar]] is in a more unique position however. Some of the hakima who have made a study of such things believe there is a way to harness this unlooked for bounty with the power of [[ilium|star metal]]. The ritual [[Fan the Flame of New Life]] is normally used on folk looking to start a family, but this season it could be used in a different way. If the Dhomiro of Afar has the ritual cast on themselves at the Spring Equinox, it could be made to have a much more significant, lingering effect.

The ritual would need to be performed at the Imperial regio, and would take five minutes to perform rather than the usual two. During the performance the constellation of the Stallion would need to be invoked by the contributors and the target alike. Finally, this ritual would also need six rings of ilium that would be consumed during the performance. At the climax of the ritual, the magic would be greatly enhanced and pass ''through'' the Dhomiro of Afar without touching them. Instead it would spread through the Herds they have [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion|dominion]] over, harnessing their fertility and dramatically increasing their numbers. If this complex plan is followed, the Herds of Afar will provide an additional 12 crowns of income each season going forward. ('''OOC Note:''' The enchantment would ''not'' have any effect on the Dhomiro of Afar).

===Redoubt===
{{CaptionedImage|file=MountainIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Ribbon of Salt has become agitated
* '''If a territory- or Empire-scale curse or enchantment of Spring magic effects Redoubt during the Spring Equinox the Ribbon will erupt disastrously
* '''There is a possibility that the damage could be mitigated by unleashing the Ribbon under the influence of the Fountain
There are not many farms in Redoubt, but those few there are report that the [[Rivers of Life]] have brought with them the kind of fine, healthy growth that makes a farmer glad indeed. These farms lie in the lowlands, and the life-giving magic of the waters flows through irrigation ditches, falls in the rain itself, and promises a harvest that will be nothing short of remarkable... but there is also a note of caution. Star watchers and [[astronomancy|astronomancers]] have marked that [[the Mountain]] and [[the Stork]] seem to be coming into alignment above the mountains of Redoubt specifically. Worst of all, [[the Wanderer]] appears to be influencing this minor conjunction and that does not bode well. Especially given what lies just off the coast of the territory.

The [[Redoubt#Optarion|Ribbon of Salt]] in Redoubt is an unpredictable [[regio]] tied to the Spring realm. It lies beneath the surface of the Bay of Catazar near the spire of Visten in south-eastern Redoubt. Once or twice every week it "erupts" sending a massive waterspout several hundred feet into the air, sometimes with tragic consequences for those trying to make use of the regio. Some [[seer|seers]] warn that the spout has the potential to be even more destructive, and watch it uneasily whenever any large scale Spring magic is used in the territory. Indeed, the Children of Wrecks recently attempted to [[On_southern_sands#Objective:_Protect_the_Ribbon_of_Salt|harness its power]] to unleash a disaster on the shores of Redoubt, but the intervention of Imperial heroes put paid to their plans. For the last month, the eruptions of the Ribbon of Salt have increased in tempo. In the fortnight before the Spring Equinox, they are coming roughly once every eighteen hours or so. This is, obviously, a cause for some concern.

Several magicians from Visten visited the Ribbon immediately after one of the eruptions in the short period where they can be confident there is no danger. What they learned here intensifies concern into alarm. The regio is on the verge of some disastrous outpouring of Spring magic, prompted by the curse laid over the territory. Left to its own devices, it will eventually subside, spending its energy in these frequent outbursts of violent water. The potential danger is being exacerbated by - or possibly reflected in - the constellations that seem focused on Redoubt as the Spring Equinox draws closer. After the Equinox, the threat should pass and the eruptions become further and further apart.

Unless someone places a powerful Spring magical curse or enchantment over Redoubt of course. If that happens, the combination of even more Spring magic and the constellations will create a deadly resonance that will see the Ribbon of Salt explode. On the first full moon after the Equinox, when the tides are at their highest, a ripple of [[Spring magic#ruin|ruinous]] magic will pour out of the Ribbon of Salt and cause devastating Spring storms to crash against all the territories on the coast of the Bay of Catazar. Not only Redoubt, but Mareave, Spiral, Necropolis, Sarvos, Madruga, and Feroz. The Grendel will not be spared, and neither will the Iron Confederacy.

The immediate effect will be similar to [[Foam and Spittle of the Furious Sea]] across the entire bay. [[Fleet|fleets]] across the Bay will suffer a two rank penalty for the season, no matter what action they are taking, and [[Navy|Navies]] in each territory will experience as many as 500 casualties between them. Worse than that, though, the storms will pound Sarvos, Apulian, Elos, Crown's Quay, Beoraidh, and the recovering coastal towns of the Brass Coast. The damage is likely to be comparable to that unleashed by the hurricane after the [[Every_time_it_rains|Great Drought]] of 384YE.

There are two ways that this threat might be headed off. The first is to make sure nobody casts a Spring magic [[enchantment]] or [[curse]] on Redoubt (or on the entire Empire) during the Spring Equinox. Anything that targets a territory will set the Ribbon of Salt off. There are no barbarian forces in Redoubt at the moment, so it seems unlikely to happen as long as nobody at Anvil decides to unleash the Ribbon. There are certainly those who might view the damage to the territories along the Bay of Catazar worth it to strike at the Grendel, even if it will also inflict significant harm both to the Empire and potentially diplomatic ties with the Iron Confederacy.

The other way is to release the power of the Ribbon of Salt more slowly and carefully. After some tense discussion, a collegium of [[stargazer|stargazers]] in spires along the coast believe that it would be possible to minimize the damage provided it were done carefully. Performing [[Regrow the Land's Heart]] targeting Redoubt normally would simply trigger the Ribbon of Salt. These stargazers are confident that if the enchantment is placed in a very precise fashion, however, it could "bleed off" the destructive potential of the regio. The performance will need a bowl filled with water extracted from the Ribbon of Salt immediately after one of its eruptions, when it is at its least dangerous. Fortunately the people of Visten are able to provide this, and have at some minor inconvenience sent a flask of seawater to '''Thalia of Netherwatch''', the [[Senator]] for Redoubt. 8 rings of ilium will be needed, placed in the bowl and consumed as part of the performance. The actual casting itself will need a clear invocation of the Stork and, crucially, [[the Fountain]]. If everything is done correctly, the stargazers believe damage from the Spring regio will be mitigated.

The nature of ''Regrow the Land's Heart'' is to reduce the scars of violence. The Ribbon of Salt will still erupt, will still spread Spring magic across the Bay of Catazar, but the influence of this particular gentle magic under the influence of the Fountain, would bleed off a significant portion of its destructive potential. There would still be penalties to fleets, but the damage to navies would be halved, and the threat to towns along the coast would be much reduced. While there would still be some damage and loss of life, the amount would be significantly minimized.

Do nothing and trust the Empire, and the threat will fade. Set the Ribbon of Salt off intentionally, but ensure the damage is reduced. The lesson of the Stork is that ''things matter'', and that even seemingly simple decisions can have far-reaching consequences.

===Mitwold===
* '''Blood seeps from the soil around the Pale Chain
* '''The heirs of Red Walder have been seen in the area
Mitwold [[Where_the_slow_river_flows|remains an active warzone]]. The [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#The_Battle_of_Wayford|dramatic impact]] of Rivers of Life, where waterspouts erupted from the river during the Battle of Wayford have been widely recounted in the days since. Overshadowed by the dramatic events, a more subtle effect almost goes unremarked. In several places around Mitwold, primarily in the vicinity of old battlefields, a liquid very similar to fresh blood seeps from the earth itself. It seems harmless - unsettling rather than dangerous - and it is no less effective at healing wounds than the waters that have been flowing naturally through the central [[the Marches|Marches]] since the Winter Solstice.

There is however one location where this seems to be an exception. A [[landskeeper]] from [[Mitwold#Wayford|Wayford]] who keeps a weather eye on the [[Mitwold#The_Pale_Chain|Pale Chain]] standing stone recounts a worrying event. According to their story, on the night of the last new moon before the Spring Equinox they found the stone itself weeping a thick red bloody fluid that pooled on the ground around the monolith. Given what it is that the Pale Chain contains, the landskeeper found this quite alarming for obvious reasons. They marked in particular the brightness of the stars that make up [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|the Key]] on the night the blood flowed. Worst of all, they report ''something'' emerging from the blood-sodden mud around the stone.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=House Guildenstern.png|caption=House Guildenstern|align=right|width=250}}</div>
Before they gathered the confidence to investigate, they realised they were not alone. Three other figures had arrived on the scene, bickering quietly among themselves. The landskeeper recognised one of them as ''Jyll Longleys'' - flax farmer, inveterate gossip... and the daughter of the wicked old bandit Red Walder. They deduced from this that the other two were her brother ''Bill of Beatsdown'' and that dusty old poacher ''Cobb'' who styles himself a priest. Outnumbered, the landskeeper could only watch as they egged each other on to get closer to the Pale Chain, pulled some ... things... out of the ground, and got the hell out of there like [[Tharim]] himself was on their trail. The landskeeper in question beat a hasty retreat as well, and by the time they returned next morning with some doughty youths from [[The_Marches_groups#House_Guildenstern|House Guildenstern]] there was no sign of anything amiss at the stone.

It's not clear what has actually happened here. It's possible that the Bound King of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] will know. There's also some kind of connection between the rock and the Guidldensterns, so its not impossible they might have some idea what is going on. Then there's, '''Claudia Varkulova Remislav''', openly favoured by ''Tharim'', but who is brave enough to ask impertinent questions of someone the ''King in Chains'' thinks of fondly? Regardless, this is an ill omen indeed, and those who know the history of the place know that nothing good can come of it. No-one should want the apples shaken from that particular tree indeed.

===Bregasland===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OakIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''A new woodland has appeared between Gravenmarch and the Rushes
* '''Graven Rock is echoing with unsettling resonances
In Bregasland the influence of Rivers of Life was markedly less dramatic than elsewhere... right up until a brand new woodland erupted on the border between [[Bregasland#Gravenmarch|Gravenmarch]] and [[Bregasland#The_Rushes|the Rushes]]. As well as the trees rising in a single night, which at least some magicians speculate may be a result of the Rivers of Life running awry, there appears to be a strange resonance echoing through Graven Rock. The three things - Spring curse, sudden trees, and echoing rock - may be connected or they may not but... it'll be a heck of a coincidence if they aren't.

Marcher landskeepers cautiously suggest that [[Eye of the High Places]] may discover more information, and are concerned about what these changes might portend. By contrast several [[mummer|mummers]] are of the opinion that [[Dreams in the Witch House]] may turn out to be a more useful [[divination]] given the mysterious nature of events here, and are less concerned than excited about what might be going on. Already dramatisations of the Battle of the Moving Forest are being discussed, with enthusiastic plans for how exactly to make an entire woodland appear on stage as if by magic.

==A Malachite Casket==
{{CaptionedImage|file=The Lock.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Painted Caves in Miekarova have been hidden by magical mists
For the last three months, the [[Miekarova#Painted Caves|Painted Caves]] of [[Miekarova]] have been hidden by magical mists. As mentioned by the [[Thule]], this is particularly notable because the Caves are in [[Miekarova#Mieriada|Mieriada]], the [[territory#regions|region]] of [[Miekarova]] ceded by the [[Senate]]. [[Varushka|Varushkan]] travellers are still able to come-and-go relatively freely through the Thule-held regions of their nation, but since the Winter Solstice they have been warned away from the caves. A few adventurous types - [[volhov]] mostly - still pushed through and took a look at the fog that all the fuss was about. Their discoveries have slowly percolated through Miekarova, told over supper late at night or shared around a campfire when travellers meet.

Many people have heard how the nearby hills are shrouded in thick mists, and that the shadows darken around the paths leading to, and the entrances into, the Painted Caves and darkens the shadows around the paths leading to, and the entrances into, the Painted Caves of Mieriada. What is less well known - at least until this volhov have their poke about - is that those who attempt to find their way into the caves despite this discouragement quickly find themselves lost, or inexplicably turned around. Strange lights and noises in the mists lead them astray, or they talk of hearing familiar voices or even phantasms of loved ones calling them to step from the path. Those who press on regardless say they encountered horrors drawn from their darkest nightmares that caused even the doughtiest of them to flee - and become lost in the mists. Even those able to stick to the path due to sheer willpower (or lack of imagination) found themselves travelling for hours or even days, only to find themselves, exhausted and confused, back where they started. As near as the volhov could tell, while the misty magic continued nobody could actually reach or enter the Painted Caves.

The simple [[detect magic#Divination|divinations]] that any volhov worth their salt can perform would only reveal that the effect surrounding the caves was the result of a potent [[Night magic]] ritual of magnitude 30 - one that could only be pierced or removed by significant [[Day magic]]. It seems clear that the Thule did not place this magic on the hills of Mieriada. There is some speculation of the involvement of the [[Night Below]], but as one explorer ruefully points out after being forcefully removed from the area by a Thule patrol, where ''Fly-the-Light'' is involved people very rarely if ever actually come back.

The Caves themselves have a long history, and a special significance for many Varushkans. Many people assume there is only one such cave - the largest in western Mieriada that are the only ones to have been extensively explored. In fact there are several clusters, all having in common great numbers of vibrant paintings, as bright today as they were when they were created. Some date back to a period long before the [[Varushka_history#Origins_of_Varushka|arrival of the Vard]], and as such they have special significance to some Varushkans who feel their Ushkan heritage more strongly. Perhaps more importantly from the Thule point of view, some of the caves contain [[regio]], usually connected to the realm of Night, associated with dreams and visions.

The Dragons have been very clear that they do not appreciate this magical effect. That alone attracts some interest among the people of Miekarova. Some assume it is a Varushkan coven thumbing their noses at the Thule who have claimed Miekarova. Of those, a few worry that this will cause trouble, but many others are very much in favour of this passive resistance to those they see as an occupying force. All of this would likely be moot, however, if not for one unlooked for circumstance brought about by the current magical chaos that seems to be swirling around the Empire.
===Things Can Be Hidden===
* '''The Malachite Casket ritual can be empowered by invoking the constellation of the Lock to extend its duration to an entire year and make it harder to penetrate
* '''The Casket can be combined with ilium to make it permanent and impossible to remove without ruinous expense
The four stars of [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Lock]], the constellation that is sometimes called ''The First Ward'' in old [[cabalists|cabalist]] texts, burns bright in the sky over Varushka. It is neither a good omen nor a bad one; it speaks both to the sealing away of danger, and the way danger might lie in wait. It is also extensively evoked in magic that bars, wards, or defence... and with magic that conceals, prevents access to, or denies control over something.

During the Spring Equinox, if the ritual ''The Malachite Casket'' is cast again using the [[Regio#The_Imperial_Regio|Imperial Regio]] while the stars are visible in the sky, the casters may verbally evoke the power of the Lock as part of their performance. If they do so, then the resulting shroud will linger over the hills of Mieriada for an entire year and will be significantly harder to dispel. If they include 30 rings of ilium in the performance, it will become permanent and next to impossible to remove permanently without a ruinous investment of ilium in the counterspell. Obviously, if either of these options are taken it will anger the Thule.

But it will also send a message to those who want to see the orcs of Otkodov pushed back over the mountains that they are not alone.

==Winds of Clarity==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=ChaliceIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Chalice (Constellation)|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=ClawIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Claw (Constellation)|align=left|width=200}}</div>
* '''A ritual enchantment of the Day realm has been laid over Sermersuaq
* '''The lingering echoes of the Falconer and their dangerous scheme have been unravelled
* '''A sense of clarity and rationality has fallen over the territory
* '''There are lingering effects for characters whose personal resource is in Sermersuaq
There has been a great deal of unsettlement in [[Sermersuaq]] here in recent years - most recently through the influence of the entity known as the Falconer. Their connection to [[the Claw]], and the actions of their followers, resulted in a wave of violence spreading through the north-west of the Empire. Imperial heroes put a stop to their schemes, but the lingering effects remained.

After the Winter Solstice, an [[enchantment]] weaves itself into existence over the cold plains of northern Wintermark. Its effect is to draw the power of the [[Realms#Day|Day realm]] into alignment with the mortal world, with the intention of unravelling the lingering corruption caused by meddling with the [[constellations|constellation]] known as the ''[[the Claw]]''. In this, it has been entirely effective. The last echoes of the Falconer's influence has been torn asunder not only in Sermersuaq, but as the days start to lengthen toward Spring, across the rest of the north-western Empire. While the remnants of the monoliths the Falconer's brood attempted to raise still dot the plains, there is no power in or around them. They are simply stones, unconnected to each other or to the heavens above
In the night skies over Sermersuaq, the four stars of the Claw seem almost imperceptibly dimmer. By contrast, the six stars of [[the Chalice]] seem to burn ever brighter.

The enchantment brings with it a sense of calm and rationality. Subtle Day magic flows through the skies and waters of the territory, as pools, lakes, and rivers become particularly clear. The magic is most obvious in the winds, though, which are particularly bracing, and bring with them a sense of wellbeing and clarity. It feels good to be outdoors, even in Winter. The air is crisp and fresh, and it is hard not to spend time speculating objectively on ones situation, and ones problems. Where action is called for, it becomes each to spend a moment thinking through the best course to take, and to put those plans into operation.

It also opens the way for encounters with the forces of the Day Realm. Anyone spending time in Sermersuaq this season may well have encountered an unexpected Day regio, or met with [[Inhabitants of the realms#heralds|heralds]] of [[Roshanwe]], [[Zakalwe]], and [[Ylenwe]]. These encounters will not be dramatic; instead they represent opportunities to discuss problems, personal quests, or matters of conflict with a sympathetic ear that offers good counsel.
===Sermersuaq Participation===
{{CaptionedImage|file=StorkIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Characters from Sermersuaq will experience the roleplaying effects of Day rituals more keenly
* '''Characters whose personal resource is in Sermersuaq receive a source of spiritual strength from Day magic personal enchantments
Some of the effects of this powerful magic linger still. Anyone from Sermersuaq - whose [[personal resource]] is in that territory - will find that the [[roleplaying effects]] of any [[:Category:Day ritual|Day rituals]] cast on them are more pronounced, more immediate and impactful. Enchantments of Day magic that don't normally create a roleplaying effect cause a target from Sermersuaq to experience one anyway: ''you feel calm, collected and clear-headed. Although pressing matters have not lost their importance, you feel an urge to consider all your options before taking action especially if it may lead to serious consequences.''

While a character from Sermersuaq bears ''any'' character enchantment created with Day magic, they can be use it as a [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|source of spiritual strength]] to overcome other roleplaying effects, in the same manner as an [[anointing]] can. Note that this does ''not'' apply with enchantments that target resources or armies - while those roleplaying effects are pronounced they are not focused enough on the individual to grant the source of spiritual strength.

Finally, any character from Sermersuaq who looks at the night sky may be left with the impression that the stars that make up [[the Stork]] constellation are shining especially brightly.

==The Wanderer's Pilgrimage==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; margin: 10px;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Phoenix2.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Stallion2.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Web2.png|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
* '''The Wanderer has continued to move through the night sky passing through and interacting with various constellations as it does'''
* '''In previous interactions, tulpas of the constellations manifested which were somehow combined with the Wanderer's influence'''
* '''The Wanderer is currently in conjunction with The Phoenix, The Web, and The Stallion and may manifest The Pilgrim Flame sometime during the Spring Equinox'''

[[The Wanderer]] has continued to move through the night sky with seemingly more purpose than usual, passing through and interacting with various constellations as it does. Shortly before the Summer Solstice of 387YE, it passed through both [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|the Lock]] and [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|the Key]], pausing briefly at each, as if adding an additional star to the constellations. This interaction was felt throughout the Empire in small but subtle ways, but the constellations manifested tulpas which seemed to combine the Wanderer - in this case creating ''The Lock's Flame'' and ''The Key's Flame'' - all of which also called themselves The Pilgrim Flame.

The same thing happened during the Autumn Equinox of 387YE, but that time it was with [[The Chalice]] and [[The Claw]], the tulpas of which caused a moderate amount of chaos at the Varushkan Night Market limited only by the laws of hospitality. Even tulpas, it seems, are subject to [[Varushka_hearth_magic#Hospitality|Varushkan hospitality]].

Over Winter, the Wanderer moved through empty sky, but this season it has moved in conjunction with [[The Phoenix]], [[The Web]], and [[The Stallion]]. Astronomancers expect another manifestation of The Pilgrim Flame in Anvil, if it keeps to the expected pattern.

===Pilgrimage Participation===
Any player is free to roleplay that their character has been affected by the strange conjunctions of the Wanderer The Phoenix, The Web, and The Stallion. Most of the effects are subtle but you can roleplay that you have been affected by one of the effects being experienced across the Empire:

* An increase in the number of accidental fires and cases of arson across the Empire.
* Academic and scholarly debates have grown more intense while pushing the boundaries of their subjects, with some individuals being so passionate that they have resorted to brief moments physical of violence.
* People finding that they are bonding more quickly with new acquaintances
* Hidden connections between individuals, such as a secret lover or a corrupted official, are sometimes becoming known about by those they most affect through increasingly unlikely coincidences.
* Some individuals in positions of authority, from local officials to Imperial title holders, have reported restless dreams about the stresses of their position.

==The Stars are Wrong==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=DoorIllustrationInk.JPG|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Territory-scale magic is much more likely to have additional unlooked for effects when performed at the Spring Equinox
* '''These effects will never invalidate the listed mechanical effect of a ritual
During the Spring Equinox, the power of the astronomantic constellations appears focused on the Empire, and on Anvil in particular. For centuries astronomancers have argued about whether the stars influence events, or whether they merely reflect them. Right now, it appears that both interpretations might be true, at least during this unprecedented conjunction. Anvil is the heart of the Empire where decisions are made that effect every Imperial citizen; the conjunction reflects this. Yet the influence of the stars is also having a warping effect on the Empire. In particular it is effecting Imperial magic.

Any ritual that targets a territory or the Empire performed during the Spring Equinox is much more likely to have unexpected effects. All magic used on the territory scale can have unlooked for side effects - circumstances constantly influence what happens and all such rituals are mentioned in the winds of fortune or the winds of war (or both). This season, those side effects will be much more pronounced. They will never prevent the ritual having its mechanical effects; that will always happen as described in the appropriate ritual. But just as the [[#Rivers of Chaos|Rivers of Life curse]] has had additional strange consequences wherever it was cast last season, so any rituals cast this season are likely to have unpredictable effects.

Key of dreams

2026-06-09T00:02:59Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Many Minds Move As One (Autumn) */ Making both parties happy

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Do you know what the three keys to solving a problem are?"

Ophelia was in her robe, half asleep, not expecting guests. Especially not a guest as peculiar as the one at her chamber door. One of the realities of life above a regio was that sometimes very strange people - for a given value - turned up in your bedroom at all hours of the night. This one she knew as Blue; barely three feet tall with a kind face, long turquoise hair, and a flexible tail that ended in a shock of aquamarine strands. They wore a flowing woollen dark-green robe cinched at what amounted to their waist with a rope belt. They rarely bothered to be invited in, and tonight was no exception. They bustled past her and jumped up onto the chair near the table, starting to go through the reagents there without being asked.

"It's very late," said Ophelia. She had no particular hope that her visitor would appreciate the hour.

"That's nice dear," said the creature. It shook a little bottle containing rusted iron filings before discarding it; licked a ring of ilium with every sign of enthusiasm; stuck one thick nail-less finger into a pestle of ground realmsroot and sniffed it suspiciously. "The three keys to solving a problem? I'll give you a clue - there's four of them."

Ophelia shut the door, and lifted the cap over the lightstone partially, illuminating the room a little better. Blue had stopped poking around her work table and was instead pulling books out of the bookcase one at a time, piling them up to make a stool to sit on. The Urizeni stargazer had never seen Blue, or any of her kin, actually ''read'' a book. She wasn't sure they even knew what they were.

"Well I suppose there's a riddle there - how can three..."

Blue wasn't listening.

"The first key is Thinking About The Thing. That's when you try to work out what the problem actually is, and what to do about it. That's the most important key obviously."

"Obviously, so..."

"The second key is Talking About The Thing. That's when you put words on your thought. Makes your thoughts real, you see. Also it lets you boss people around or, if the problem is really bad, work with others. That's the most vital of all the keys obviously."

''Oh'', thought Ophelia. ''It's going to be one of <u>those</u> kinds of conversations''.

"The third key is Actually Doing The Thing." Blue had pulled a length of something long and clear that looked like glass out of her robe, and was chewing on it with every sign of enthusiasm. Ophelia could hear it splintering. She wasn't sure how - Blue had no teeth in her wide, unlipped mouth. "That's when you actually try to solve the problem, and find out if any of your keys fit the lock. That's definitely the most important key."

Blue looked at her through half lidded eyes. Ophelia sipped a little of the water from her night-stand.

"So the fourth key..." she said thoughtfully. She considered everything she knew about Blue and her kind, and their patron. "I think you want me to think the fourth key is the last one, but actually I think... yes. It's actually the first one."

The little herald sat on their stool of books swinging their legs, kicking their heels against an antique copy of the ''Vojaĝtaglibroj de Vojaĝanta Onklo Matt'' which her grandmother had acquired for a small fortune at Anvil one Summer. Her expression, usually open and enthusiastic, was unreadable.

"I think the first key, then, the first key is the key of... inspiration? Having a spark that turns into a thought, then a plan, then action?"

Blue nodded her head in approval.

"The Key of Dreams," said her strange little guest seriously, and Ophelia could hear the capital letters. "The key that unlocks the cabinet where the other keys are kept, so you can use them to open your lock. Which is in this case your problem! Whatever that is."

''Aha!'' thought Ophelia. An opening!

"Well, as I said to your... fellow dweller, the little yellow worried one. I've been experimenting with realmsroot and I'm convinced there's a way to transform it into..."

Blue jumped down from the stool, and hopped up onto the bedside table. From inside their robe they produced a bright red fruit - or perhaps a vegetable - shaped a little like a stylised heart.

"Here you go!" they said in a slightly dreamy tone. "This'll help you find the first key you're looking for. All you have to do is eat it."

The little herald smiled, as Ophelia reached out to take the fruit, and if there was something unsettling in their half-lidded eyes, the Urizeni was too focused on the gift being offered to notice.</ic>
<div style="float:left; max-width: 400px; min-width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ornate Key.jpg|caption=They key turns, but what does it unlock?|align=right|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''Six eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil, apparently in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Five have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
* '''The other has provided messages, opportunities, or gifts of one type or another'''
As the Winter Solstice approaches, the [[eternal|eternals]] respond to the [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages of the six [[archmage|archmages]]. Each of the six is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response. Some eternals will arrange a [[Archmage#Parley|parley]] or some kind, a personal meeting with themselves or more commonly one of their favoured lieutenants. Others may take more direct action, offering [[opportunity|opportunities]] to secure boons or enlist the eternal's power to change the Empire in some way. Sometimes they decline the offer of meetings or boons, but even then they are likely to provide their reasons for doing so.

Since the Autumn Equinox, messengers representing six eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==Hearth-vigil (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:CathCane002.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''The Queen of Ice and Darkness has received the plenipotentiary of the Summer Archmage
* '''A parley will take place in a chamber reached via the Hall of Worlds at 19:00 on Friday during the summit
* '''Cathan Canae expects the Archmage to return the ritual text for the Fist of Black Ice
* '''The Archmage may include up to five others as part of their entourage
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose

An enormous ogre, around whom swirls a miasma of frost and ice emerges from the Imperial Regio and marches with purpose towards the Civil Service tent. Any who stand too close feel the biting cold emanating from it, and those who do not get out of its way fast enough have to leap out of its way to not be swatted or crushed by its huge limbs. When it reaches the Hub, it slams its fist down on Jorgen's desk, causing splinters to shoot out and for the desk itself to emit an almighty groan.

The [[Cathan_Canae|''Immovable One'']] has received the missive from the Archmage of Summer, '''Lady Keepsake''', yet has no desire to meet representatives from the Empire in person ''at this time''. Instead, she will be represented by the ''Thane of the Rimebound Shore'', who shall speak on her behalf. The ''Indomitable Queen'' is a fair and considered ruler; she approves of the focus of the plenipotentiary and will hear out the Archmage as is appropriate for when one great court deals with another. If the representatives of ''The Indefatigable Sparrow'' wish to give their reasons for decommissioning [[Spiral#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]] and the Eastern Guard, they will have their opportunity. She is not so quick to lose her temper as [[Eleonaris]], who is so eager to start roaring at any perceived slight, but it should be understood that the ''Majestic Glacier's'' [[Summer_magic#Wroth|wroth]] is being restrained, not that it does not exist.
{{CaptionedImage|file=ArchmageSummer.jpg|caption='''Mirella of the Twisted Rose''', Archmage of Summer|align=right|width=250}}
While the ''Lady of the Frost'' may be fair, she is not easily swayed. An assurance has been broken. A troth plighted by the Empire shattered. An [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation|assurance]] is a promise. It is a solemn oath. It is a sworn vow. To break it, is a terrible thing. The Immovable One cannot overlook this. Thus, the ''Queen of Ice and Darkness'' wants it to be clear that there is <u>no circumstance</u> under which the Archmage will be coming back from the parley with a [[The_thing_with_feathers#Hope's_Rest_(Cathan_Canae)|renewed ritual text for the '''Fist of Black Ice''']].

The ''Immovable One'' respects the decision of the Archmage to come to her immediately, to stand her ground and make her case, not to hide and wait until the blizzard no longer howls. It is good that Lady Keepsake is willing to face the storm head on - it is the only way to begin to rebuild what has been razed. But the Archmage ''must'' bring the now-ruined ritual text to the meeting to be returned to the ''Mistress of Blizzards'' as a first step before any further aid for Imperial magicians will be discussed. The Queen will look elsewhere to find a worthy recipient for that particular gift - the Empire must do without.

The Archmage may bring up to five guests. ''The Breath of Winter'' asks the Archmage to bring a representative of the '''Phonenix Rising''' coven as one of the five. She plans to reward them for [[The_thing_with_feathers#Hope's_Rest_(Cathan_Canae)|completing the task to call forth her citadel]] into [[The Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]] in [[the Barrens]]. Too often, the labours of those who raise the walls are overlooked. ''The Lady of the Frost'' would like to present the witches with a personal gift in recognition of their efforts. They should bring a set of [[Weapons_%26_armour#Mage_Armour|mage armour]] that has not already been worked by an artisan for her herald to imbue with a shard of her power. As to the rest, the Archmage may choose as she pleases and may, or may not, include the [[Senator]] for [[Spiral]] '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''' and Master '''Watt Lambrook''' as she prefers. They will be welcomed with all due hospitality as the Archmage has requested, but they should not expect it to be a ''warm'' welcome.

==Finder of Paths Unseen (Night)==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Crucible.png|align=right|width=250}}</div>
* '''Azoth will create a night market at 22:00 on Saturday at the coming summit'''
* '''Anyone who wishes may visit to purchase various offerings in exchange for coins, ingots and measures'''
* '''Servants of many of the Night eternals will be present including the Whisper Gallery'''

A "distillation", a herald of [[Azoth]] comes to Anvil bearing a message. The Azoth shall dissolve the barriers between the [[Hall of Worlds]] and a region of the [[Realm#Night|Night realm]] known as the '''Shadow Souk'''. In this chamber, representatives of many [[Archmage_of_Night#The_Eternals_of_Night|wyrms and serpents]] come together to mix and, in their joining, produce change, inspiration and other things upon which the Night thrives. Those mortals who dare join them will find amusements, indulgences, mysteries and secrets refined from across the lived world and the depths of Night’s oceans.

The ''Crucible'' invites citizens to come, to make merry and to be transformed. Those who attend will emerge from its dimly lit avenues transfigured in body, mind or soul; to be made ready for a new age. The herald includes a warning: visitors ''must'' be prepared to entreat with representatives of eternals that the Empire has chosen to quench via [[Alignment#Night|enmity]]. Alchemy, they say, is never without its impurities.

Azoth will offer the following gifts at the market:

* '''The Crucible of Twinned Souls''' - The magisterium of two distinct wholes shall extend the same rebirth to interested citizens. Two spirits that enter into the Crucible of Twinned Souls will be mixed, fused and reformed into two new beings possessing a unique blend of the memories, attitudes, experiences, hopes, and dreams of their progenitors. The process shall be catalysed by a measure of [[weltsilver]] provided by each of the participants and will work best on those whose spirits are already familiar with each other.

* '''The Solvent of Thought''' - Distilled from the raw essence of Night, this elixir roils with innumerable memories. For those with a handful of small coins, or a measure of [[Game_items#Materials|something more precious]], patrons may take these memories into themselves, or expunge a memory of their own and cast it into the solvent.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', Archmage of Night|align=right|width=250}}
* '''Twilit Pigments''' - Art is transformative, sublimating the rarefied vapours of emotion into myriad forms concentrated into shapes either material or ethereal that serve in turn to transform the hearts of those who imbibe them. To such alchemists of the heart, Azoth shall dispense their twilit pigments. For a fee these essences may be applied to the skin, or provided for use in the artist’s own works and in each case shall produce distinct results.

* '''The Fraction of Being''' - Through madness we find inspiration, and madness is oft found in things that are alien to us. The Cauldron of Fractions contains fragments of personality offered from those around the world who deal with the Azoth. Those willing to tear out a piece of themselves and offer it to the cauldron may choose a fragment previous given up by someone not of the Empire. The trade must always be one to one, and is permanent. So the cycle goes, on and on.

After a brief pause, they then continue to describe the offerings available from the other denizens of the Night realm:

* '''[[Sadogua]]''' shall offer visitors opportunities to dredge treasures from his Mire of Indulgences
* '''[[Lashonar]]''' has been quite vociferous regarding its Talking Shop and the heap of ‘treasures’ it has gathered from across the world to barter, like for like, with citizens willing to engage in eloquent exchange.
* '''[[Sung]]''' shall not herself send representatives (or maybe she will, it is not clear, the herald admits) - but instead shall engage the Archmage of Night to ensure that the market is awash with music from the finest musicians the Empire may send: magical mysteries shall be imparted to the Archmage to reward those that compete to create an aura of mystery over the whole affair.
* '''[[Janon]]''' exhorts attendees to effuse with passion and shall offer a space for those with a fire in their spirit to move their peers. Those with a talent for speech will find their prowess alloyed with the Shadowed Flame’s power.
* '''The [[Whisper Gallery]]''', as might be expected, have chosen to keep their contribution a secret.

==Starlight Seeks Its Form (Day)==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Coral Library declines a formal parley with the Archmage of Day'''
* '''Instead, a pocket of its archives will be accessible within the Hall of Worlds from 10:30 on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox'''
* '''Heralds of Phaleron will visit the Hall of Worlds and may channel the complete writings of the cultures requested by the Archmage of Day'''
* '''Unlocking this boon will require aid from Imperial magicians
A rushed civil servant almost steps on the lizard-like creature seemingly crafted from folded parchment which emerges from the Imperial regio one early spring morning. After some failed attempts at communication, it's finally discovered that unfolding the paper scales across the creature's back reveals neat penmanship that changes each time it is revealed. With an indignant rustle, the herald claims to be ''scale mail'' sent from the [[Phaleron|Great Library]].

It assures the civil service in writing that the [[Archmage of Day]] was wise to seek out the ''Archives of Silence'' in a quest for guidance. A great many civilisations which once regularly sent writings to the library have long since ceased to do so. ''Phaleron'' has seen the rise and fall of ages and societies - and more than that, it has heard of their fears and hopes through their own voices. Those words remain as part of its collection, a testament to what has passed from the world.

From half-past-ten on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox, a collection of works from the Library will be made available to the Empire at their Hall of Worlds. Such works discuss the end of things, the fall of civilisations, the decay of culture, the growth of societies at the loss of what they once were - and of those left behind. It is the Archive's hope that those who visit the collection may add their own writings. As a rare boon, Imperial citizens are also welcome to take away any singular piece which speaks to them.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Gralka1693.jpg||caption='''Gralka''', Archmage of Day|align=right|width=200}}
The collection will be available all Sunday, so there is no need for readers to rush to the collection. It will be accompanied by heralds during the morning, but the writings will remain for the entire day.

There is, however, some confusion amongst the attendants of the Coral Library. It seems, from the Archmage's words, that she wishes to document the lives of certain cultures herself. A noble act. Once a great many scholars undertake, and certainly such writings would be welcomed into the coral shelves. But it seems there has been an assumption that the Great Library lacks words from these cultures' own pens. Since the Archmage and the Empire wish to learn more about these civilisations, the Archive can - with some support from Imperial mages - instead provide the collective writings they have submitted to the Archive.
<div style="float:right; max-width: 600px; min-width: 350px; clear: left;"><box> '''Out of character information'''<br>
The collection in the Hall of Worlds will be available throughout time-in on Sunday, but the lector heralds will only be available to channel from 11:00-11:30.

This encounter involves reading written (and sometimes handwritten) text. There will be NPCs available to read aloud to anyone who needs it between 10:30-11:30.

The intention with the request for items related to the named cultures is not to provide an impossible puzzle where players must search for the one item received on a Rahvin encounter countless events ago. Any ribboned item with a suitable story attached to it would meet the criteria - a weapon from a character who campaigned in a relevant location and has a story to tell which relates to that culture would be an excellent example. The item does not need to have a relevant vision response to the ritual, but unlike in usual circumstances the mana will still be used and the ritual still cast even if there is mechanically speaking no vision response. It should be noted that the Skein of Years ritual is not appropriate to use in this encounter, as it only shares the vision amongst the ritualists.</box></div>

It would take centuries for attendants of the Library to dredge up all relevant writings submitted to it by a certain culture -- and it has unfortunately become plain to the attendants that it is rare for a reader to possess such patience. Work has begun on consolidating the collections requested by the Archmage, but for this to be achievable within her mortal lifetime, Imperial mages must provide some support.

Four library attendants known as ''lectors'' will visit the Hall of Worlds from eleven in the morning on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox. The Archmage should source and bring an object relating to each culture to one of the lectors. This might not necessarily be an item originating ''from'' its culture - a sword which fought in the hand of someone hoping to save a fragment of the culture, or indeed a hammer which forged chains that bound that culture's people, would both be adequate examples. Once the item is in the lector's hands, a ritual which would share visions of that item's history with the herald must be cast - the most likely example would be ''Revelations of the Past''. This magic is not part of either [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial]] or [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore|Urizen lore]], but the ''Crystalline Archive'' knows that there are magicians in the Empire capable of casting it. The second step for the Archmage will be to track some of them down. The vision the ritual provides will serve as a "hook" which the lector can leverage to spontaneously channel the culture's writings. Such lectors have begun the process of consolidating the writings of the cultures known as the Bloodwater Spears, the Waterwalkers, the Rahvin and the Vendarri.

There is one last, slightly awkward element which the attendants to the Library wish to ensure the Empire understands. They, naturally, believe the writings of a culture to be a perfect path to understanding it. But they are not so bull-headed as to believe that all writings from a culture are submitted to their coral shelves. Their knowledge is, sadly, imperfect. Beautiful, comprehensive, diverse. But not complete.

==Sharp Fangs Behind The Leaves (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">[[file:Centipede General.png]]</div>
* '''Arhallogen declines parley at this time
* '''It has set out a number of criteria whereby the Conclave might win its favour
A herald of [[Arhallogen]] appears at Spiral Castle shortly after the Winter Solstice. It did not take long, it seems, for the plenipotentiary of '''Ibiss Briarheart''' to be digested. Arhallogen respects the decision of the Archmage to move on to hunt different prey. They did not always have a positive relationship, but that is only right and proper for two masters of the hunt. The ''Apex Predator'' wishes him all the best in facing whomever he chooses to point the tip of his staff at next, and trusts he will show them no mercy. As a parting gift, Arhallogen has made an offer to his people as outlined in the {{TBC}} wind of fortune.

The Archmage mentions a great number of things, some of which should be addressed in full plenipotentiaries of their own. When it comes to the armies and septs of the Druj that the Empire is capably conquering, their treatment of those who reside in Nesustak Forest tells the ''Scorpion Queen'' that there is no offer she can make this season that the Empire would have the stomach for. The matter of the Palace of Sleepers can be discussed at a future date if and when it returns from... wherever it has gone. As to the other boons requested, the Empire must show some willingness to use the tools they already have first. Fresh meat does not simply fall into one's lap slain and skinned; effort must be put in, the hunt must first be completed.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ibiss8557.jpg||caption='''Ibiss Briarheart''', Archmage of Spring|align=right|width=200}}
Arhallogen appreciates that the [[Archmage of Spring]]'s last plenipotentiary to the ''Centipede General'' gives it an opportunity to address the wider issues it sees in its relationship with the Empire, given that the new Archmage should be apprised of the current state of things moving forward. In the many, many eyes of the ''Scorpion Queen'', the Imperial Conclave has been ruined by the influence of [[Irra_Harah|''Wet Crunch'']] and the [[Ossegrahn|''Sap'']], even after the creation of the [[Silver Chalice]] as its first mistake. Even the once formidable military council has fallen to foolishness, preferring to fight under the counter-productive [[Rivers of Life]] at every turn. The once great [[Gryphon's Pride]] has become a little more than a herd of prey animals, and the three peoples' idolisation of the folly of "honour" leaves a sick taste in the mouths of the ''Centipede General''.

The ''Envenomed Blade'' is not one to give up a fight easily, however, and thus has chosen to offer the Conclave some great and powerful boons if it is prepared to reverse its decline and not let its current victories make it complacent and weak, valid until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE. In each instance, the raising magician of the successful [[declaration]] involved will receive a gift of five pawns of [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]]. Other boons will be granted depending on the nature of the action the Conclave takes - including [[arcane projection|arcane projections]] for magical rituals that could be [[College of magic|codified]], and potentially even made a part of [[Imperial lore]] or [[Urizen lore]]. The civil service notes that the magics mentioned will certainly have assurances, but that ''Sharp Fangs Behind the Leaves'' has not disclosed what they might be.

* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Interdiction_:_Savagery_of_Armies|savage army enchantment]], Arhallogen will watch Imperial armies for a year, and offer the one who displays the strongest killer instincts a significant boon.
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[Rivers Run Red]], Arhallogen will provide the magician who raises the [[Interdiction#License|Declaration of License]] with an [[arcane projection]] called ''Instincts of the Shadow-Hunter'' that improves an army's ability to pursue prey as she does - a ritual well known in one form or another to the [[Druj]].
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]], Arhallogen will provide the magician who raises the Declaration of License with an arcane projection called ''Enveloped in the Dripping Web'', a much more potent version of [[Fire in the Blood]].
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on the potion set [[Double-sided Blade]], Arhallogen will offer a bequeathment of [[herb|herbs]] and [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]] to the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries' Guild]] which they can use to make dangerous blade venoms. Or heal people. Whichever.
* If the Conclave places the perfidious [[Irra Harah]] under enmity, it will teach all Imperial artisans how to make a one-handed weapon similar to the [[Barbed Spear]] that will prove [[Calls#VENOM|useful]] when fighting the vallorn. Or indeed any other enemy.
* If the Conclave places the soporific [[Ossegrahn]] under enmity, it will present an opportunity to aid the Empire in its war against the [[Grendel|Orcs of the Broken Shore]]. To be absolutely clear, this will involve the killing of many Grendel. The Grendel are also interested in seeking a boon from the ''Mother of Stonefish'', so it may behove the Conclave to move quickly on that one.

According to the ''Skittering-Dark'', if the Conclave does not change its course, and soon, something truly awful might happen. It does not say what this thing might be, for fear of encouraging the perverse elements within the Empire that would promote a disaster so recently averted.

==Shifting Memory of Ages (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width:225px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WiseRangara.jpg|align=right|width=225}}</div>
* '''''Eldest Sister'' has agreed to a meeting with the heroes of Empire'''
* '''She invites the Wise Ones of Varushka to name six Varushkan storytellers to visit her and learn the wisdom of her stories'''
* '''These storytellers take on responsibility to spread Grandmother Winter's tales to Anvil'''
* '''The chosen storytellers are to meet her herald at 15:50, to be taken hence to her campfire.'''
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: Pink;">'''Known Storytellers'''</tr>
<tr><td> Anastasia "Ana" Varenye </td></tr>
<tr><td> Anatolij Paukov Zorkin </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bregeslav </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cvijeta Ravenkova </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jurand Biegacz </td></tr>
<tr><td> Katarina </td></tr>
<tr><td> Katerina Pavukov Novosad </td></tr>
<tr><td> Korvak Zovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kłamca Bzdura </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laumina Yulenkaovich Delmorozov </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maja Świętosława Przewałski </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslav "XIII" Ruparcic </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mojca Sanjač </td></tr>
<tr><td> Nikolai "The Butcher" Petravich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Radomir Illyot Shallotovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rolnik Cytryn </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vera </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vlodikaz Ivarovich Vardovich (known as Vlod) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vukovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Yasna Yalinovsky Labzov </td></tr>
</table></div>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bloodcrow Arora.jpg|caption='''Bloodcrow Arora''', Archmage of Winter|align=left|width=250}}
A spry young thing comes to Anvil. Despite the blazing mortal sun, they are wrapped in many layers of tattered rags and greasy furs. When they skip lightly into the [[Civil Service|civil service]] tent, those present are struck by the age in their eyes. Then they smile, and it is polite, disarming, and threatening all at once.

Still, what the [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] has to say is simple enough, or so it would seem. [[Wise Rangara|''Augur-at-the-campfire'']] thanks Bloodcrow Arora in the kindest terms, but stories must be told in the right way, at the right time. She therefore pronounces that she will tell her stories to no more than six [[Varushka_religious_beliefs#Storytellers|storytellers]] of [[Varushka]], to be chosen by the [[Varushka_religious_beliefs|Wise Ones]] of that nation. If they are Wise of understanding and skilful in their craft, they shall prove themselves to the ''Clever Spider'' by sharing her tales with Anvil. Word-for-word is not ''the Venerable Guest's'' way, the important thing is that the right meaning is imparted to the right people.

The herald suggests interested storytellers go to the Varushkan National Assembly meeting, which they understand to be taking place at 19:00 on the Friday of the summit, in the tent of Vor'zai, and that the Varushkan Wise Ones take steps to choose the best. Also, the best storytellers may not be the best magicians. The herald drily notes that if the wizards of the Empire desire her wisdom as ardently as they appear, then ''the Pale Raven'' is confident that they can acquire sufficient [[Pauper's_Key|Pauper's Keys]].

Regardless, once the six are chosen, the Archmage of Winter should bring them to the Hall of Worlds at four in the afternoon on the Saturday of the coming summit. From there, a herald will take them to a hut in the wild woods where stories may be told. It will begin as a parley, but if that turns out to be too constraining for the telling of tales, then it might be needful to put it aside. Regardless, she promises that no harm will befall the storytellers - unless they bring some harm with them, of course.

==Many Minds Move As One (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width:225px; clear: right;">{{HoverImage|SaltAndSail001.png|Turtle_city.jpg}}</div>
* '''A representative from the City of Salt and Sail will journey to the Hall of Worlds at 10.00 in the morning on Saturday
* '''They hope to meet with the Archmage of Autumn in a formal parley
* '''Several items that the archmage suggested will be on the agenda
A few weeks before the Spring Equinox, a missive arrives at the Hub. Most of the civil servants have either experienced or observed the slightly odd feeling of being delivered a letter accompanied by nothing more than a muted flutter of wings. It is apparently an altogether different experience when the flutter of wings is more of boisterous flapping accompanied by raucous cawing, as if the missive was delivered by an unseen dire gull (albeit one significantly less murderously minded than the typical dire gull). Once the civil servants on duty had finished calming down and collecting the paperwork displaced by the things' invisible wings, they carefully read the missive, and they have made the contents public knowledge.

The missive is from ''Ptolemy, Custodian of the Infinite Rookery'', who intends to visit the Hall of Worlds in response to a plenipotentiary sent by '''Vossk''', [[Archmage of Autumn]]. Ptolemy represents the ''City of Salt and Sail''; a city of the [[Realm#Autumn|Autumn realm]] unknown to the Empire. Ptolemy proposes the following agenda:
{{CaptionedImage|file=Vossk.jpg|caption='''Vossk''', Archmage of Autumn|align=right|width=250}}
# '''Introductions''' - in which each party establishes their bona fides.
# '''Agenda''' - a <u>short</u> discussion to confirm that both parties are happy with the proposed agenda for the rest of the meeting.
# '''Winged Messengers''' - to focus on their functions and assurances.
# '''Boons for Salt and Sail''' - to explore the Empire's needs for magical assistance with fleets and navies to see if they can be profitably met by the City.
# '''Ports''' - as above, but with an emphasis on both improvement and protection.
# '''Minutes''' - a comparison of minutes taken by both parties to ensure they are in agreement.
# '''Close''' - meeting closes with a formal agreement that both parties will then depart.

The City has allocated one hour for this meeting. Both parties are to make good faith efforts to avoid a costly overrun.

Ptolemy wishes to make clear that the City would prefer to avoid price discovery at this stage, and that Ptolemy is not approved to agree initial or final terms. This is a preliminary meeting to explore what options exist for profitable exchange with a view to subsequent communication to establish heads of terms before moving to signed contracts.

One thing that must be clear from the outset is that the city will not involve itself in any matters vis-a-vis the war between the Empire and [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavea]]. Even to contemplate the possibility of discussion of this conflict might undermine the stance of strict neutrality that is a binding requirement of all heralds of the City of Salt and Sail placed on them by the one under whose auspices they travel.

==Timetable==
There are comparatively few meetings taking place during this summit. The times, the locations, and the eternals involved are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 19:00 || [[Cathan Canae]] || Summer || Parley; Archmage and up to five guests are invited to the chamber where it will take place
|-
| Saturday || 10.00 || Salt and Sail || Autumn || Parley; hosted in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday || 16.00 || [[Wise Rangara]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and up to six Varushkan storytellers invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 22:00 || [[Azoth]] || Night || Not a parley; a Shadow Souk will take place in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Sunday || 10:00 || [[Phaleron]] || Day || Not a parley; a pocket of the archives will manifest in the Hall of Worlds
|-
|}

Key of dreams

2026-06-08T23:56:27Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Starlight Seeks Its Form (Day) */ Still using mana

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Do you know what the three keys to solving a problem are?"

Ophelia was in her robe, half asleep, not expecting guests. Especially not a guest as peculiar as the one at her chamber door. One of the realities of life above a regio was that sometimes very strange people - for a given value - turned up in your bedroom at all hours of the night. This one she knew as Blue; barely three feet tall with a kind face, long turquoise hair, and a flexible tail that ended in a shock of aquamarine strands. They wore a flowing woollen dark-green robe cinched at what amounted to their waist with a rope belt. They rarely bothered to be invited in, and tonight was no exception. They bustled past her and jumped up onto the chair near the table, starting to go through the reagents there without being asked.

"It's very late," said Ophelia. She had no particular hope that her visitor would appreciate the hour.

"That's nice dear," said the creature. It shook a little bottle containing rusted iron filings before discarding it; licked a ring of ilium with every sign of enthusiasm; stuck one thick nail-less finger into a pestle of ground realmsroot and sniffed it suspiciously. "The three keys to solving a problem? I'll give you a clue - there's four of them."

Ophelia shut the door, and lifted the cap over the lightstone partially, illuminating the room a little better. Blue had stopped poking around her work table and was instead pulling books out of the bookcase one at a time, piling them up to make a stool to sit on. The Urizeni stargazer had never seen Blue, or any of her kin, actually ''read'' a book. She wasn't sure they even knew what they were.

"Well I suppose there's a riddle there - how can three..."

Blue wasn't listening.

"The first key is Thinking About The Thing. That's when you try to work out what the problem actually is, and what to do about it. That's the most important key obviously."

"Obviously, so..."

"The second key is Talking About The Thing. That's when you put words on your thought. Makes your thoughts real, you see. Also it lets you boss people around or, if the problem is really bad, work with others. That's the most vital of all the keys obviously."

''Oh'', thought Ophelia. ''It's going to be one of <u>those</u> kinds of conversations''.

"The third key is Actually Doing The Thing." Blue had pulled a length of something long and clear that looked like glass out of her robe, and was chewing on it with every sign of enthusiasm. Ophelia could hear it splintering. She wasn't sure how - Blue had no teeth in her wide, unlipped mouth. "That's when you actually try to solve the problem, and find out if any of your keys fit the lock. That's definitely the most important key."

Blue looked at her through half lidded eyes. Ophelia sipped a little of the water from her night-stand.

"So the fourth key..." she said thoughtfully. She considered everything she knew about Blue and her kind, and their patron. "I think you want me to think the fourth key is the last one, but actually I think... yes. It's actually the first one."

The little herald sat on their stool of books swinging their legs, kicking their heels against an antique copy of the ''Vojaĝtaglibroj de Vojaĝanta Onklo Matt'' which her grandmother had acquired for a small fortune at Anvil one Summer. Her expression, usually open and enthusiastic, was unreadable.

"I think the first key, then, the first key is the key of... inspiration? Having a spark that turns into a thought, then a plan, then action?"

Blue nodded her head in approval.

"The Key of Dreams," said her strange little guest seriously, and Ophelia could hear the capital letters. "The key that unlocks the cabinet where the other keys are kept, so you can use them to open your lock. Which is in this case your problem! Whatever that is."

''Aha!'' thought Ophelia. An opening!

"Well, as I said to your... fellow dweller, the little yellow worried one. I've been experimenting with realmsroot and I'm convinced there's a way to transform it into..."

Blue jumped down from the stool, and hopped up onto the bedside table. From inside their robe they produced a bright red fruit - or perhaps a vegetable - shaped a little like a stylised heart.

"Here you go!" they said in a slightly dreamy tone. "This'll help you find the first key you're looking for. All you have to do is eat it."

The little herald smiled, as Ophelia reached out to take the fruit, and if there was something unsettling in their half-lidded eyes, the Urizeni was too focused on the gift being offered to notice.</ic>
<div style="float:left; max-width: 400px; min-width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ornate Key.jpg|caption=They key turns, but what does it unlock?|align=right|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''Six eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil, apparently in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Five have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
* '''The other has provided messages, opportunities, or gifts of one type or another'''
As the Winter Solstice approaches, the [[eternal|eternals]] respond to the [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages of the six [[archmage|archmages]]. Each of the six is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response. Some eternals will arrange a [[Archmage#Parley|parley]] or some kind, a personal meeting with themselves or more commonly one of their favoured lieutenants. Others may take more direct action, offering [[opportunity|opportunities]] to secure boons or enlist the eternal's power to change the Empire in some way. Sometimes they decline the offer of meetings or boons, but even then they are likely to provide their reasons for doing so.

Since the Autumn Equinox, messengers representing six eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==Hearth-vigil (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:CathCane002.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''The Queen of Ice and Darkness has received the plenipotentiary of the Summer Archmage
* '''A parley will take place in a chamber reached via the Hall of Worlds at 19:00 on Friday during the summit
* '''Cathan Canae expects the Archmage to return the ritual text for the Fist of Black Ice
* '''The Archmage may include up to five others as part of their entourage
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose

An enormous ogre, around whom swirls a miasma of frost and ice emerges from the Imperial Regio and marches with purpose towards the Civil Service tent. Any who stand too close feel the biting cold emanating from it, and those who do not get out of its way fast enough have to leap out of its way to not be swatted or crushed by its huge limbs. When it reaches the Hub, it slams its fist down on Jorgen's desk, causing splinters to shoot out and for the desk itself to emit an almighty groan.

The [[Cathan_Canae|''Immovable One'']] has received the missive from the Archmage of Summer, '''Lady Keepsake''', yet has no desire to meet representatives from the Empire in person ''at this time''. Instead, she will be represented by the ''Thane of the Rimebound Shore'', who shall speak on her behalf. The ''Indomitable Queen'' is a fair and considered ruler; she approves of the focus of the plenipotentiary and will hear out the Archmage as is appropriate for when one great court deals with another. If the representatives of ''The Indefatigable Sparrow'' wish to give their reasons for decommissioning [[Spiral#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]] and the Eastern Guard, they will have their opportunity. She is not so quick to lose her temper as [[Eleonaris]], who is so eager to start roaring at any perceived slight, but it should be understood that the ''Majestic Glacier's'' [[Summer_magic#Wroth|wroth]] is being restrained, not that it does not exist.
{{CaptionedImage|file=ArchmageSummer.jpg|caption='''Mirella of the Twisted Rose''', Archmage of Summer|align=right|width=250}}
While the ''Lady of the Frost'' may be fair, she is not easily swayed. An assurance has been broken. A troth plighted by the Empire shattered. An [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation|assurance]] is a promise. It is a solemn oath. It is a sworn vow. To break it, is a terrible thing. The Immovable One cannot overlook this. Thus, the ''Queen of Ice and Darkness'' wants it to be clear that there is <u>no circumstance</u> under which the Archmage will be coming back from the parley with a [[The_thing_with_feathers#Hope's_Rest_(Cathan_Canae)|renewed ritual text for the '''Fist of Black Ice''']].

The ''Immovable One'' respects the decision of the Archmage to come to her immediately, to stand her ground and make her case, not to hide and wait until the blizzard no longer howls. It is good that Lady Keepsake is willing to face the storm head on - it is the only way to begin to rebuild what has been razed. But the Archmage ''must'' bring the now-ruined ritual text to the meeting to be returned to the ''Mistress of Blizzards'' as a first step before any further aid for Imperial magicians will be discussed. The Queen will look elsewhere to find a worthy recipient for that particular gift - the Empire must do without.

The Archmage may bring up to five guests. ''The Breath of Winter'' asks the Archmage to bring a representative of the '''Phonenix Rising''' coven as one of the five. She plans to reward them for [[The_thing_with_feathers#Hope's_Rest_(Cathan_Canae)|completing the task to call forth her citadel]] into [[The Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]] in [[the Barrens]]. Too often, the labours of those who raise the walls are overlooked. ''The Lady of the Frost'' would like to present the witches with a personal gift in recognition of their efforts. They should bring a set of [[Weapons_%26_armour#Mage_Armour|mage armour]] that has not already been worked by an artisan for her herald to imbue with a shard of her power. As to the rest, the Archmage may choose as she pleases and may, or may not, include the [[Senator]] for [[Spiral]] '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''' and Master '''Watt Lambrook''' as she prefers. They will be welcomed with all due hospitality as the Archmage has requested, but they should not expect it to be a ''warm'' welcome.

==Finder of Paths Unseen (Night)==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Crucible.png|align=right|width=250}}</div>
* '''Azoth will create a night market at 22:00 on Saturday at the coming summit'''
* '''Anyone who wishes may visit to purchase various offerings in exchange for coins, ingots and measures'''
* '''Servants of many of the Night eternals will be present including the Whisper Gallery'''

A "distillation", a herald of [[Azoth]] comes to Anvil bearing a message. The Azoth shall dissolve the barriers between the [[Hall of Worlds]] and a region of the [[Realm#Night|Night realm]] known as the '''Shadow Souk'''. In this chamber, representatives of many [[Archmage_of_Night#The_Eternals_of_Night|wyrms and serpents]] come together to mix and, in their joining, produce change, inspiration and other things upon which the Night thrives. Those mortals who dare join them will find amusements, indulgences, mysteries and secrets refined from across the lived world and the depths of Night’s oceans.

The ''Crucible'' invites citizens to come, to make merry and to be transformed. Those who attend will emerge from its dimly lit avenues transfigured in body, mind or soul; to be made ready for a new age. The herald includes a warning: visitors ''must'' be prepared to entreat with representatives of eternals that the Empire has chosen to quench via [[Alignment#Night|enmity]]. Alchemy, they say, is never without its impurities.

Azoth will offer the following gifts at the market:

* '''The Crucible of Twinned Souls''' - The magisterium of two distinct wholes shall extend the same rebirth to interested citizens. Two spirits that enter into the Crucible of Twinned Souls will be mixed, fused and reformed into two new beings possessing a unique blend of the memories, attitudes, experiences, hopes, and dreams of their progenitors. The process shall be catalysed by a measure of [[weltsilver]] provided by each of the participants and will work best on those whose spirits are already familiar with each other.

* '''The Solvent of Thought''' - Distilled from the raw essence of Night, this elixir roils with innumerable memories. For those with a handful of small coins, or a measure of [[Game_items#Materials|something more precious]], patrons may take these memories into themselves, or expunge a memory of their own and cast it into the solvent.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', Archmage of Night|align=right|width=250}}
* '''Twilit Pigments''' - Art is transformative, sublimating the rarefied vapours of emotion into myriad forms concentrated into shapes either material or ethereal that serve in turn to transform the hearts of those who imbibe them. To such alchemists of the heart, Azoth shall dispense their twilit pigments. For a fee these essences may be applied to the skin, or provided for use in the artist’s own works and in each case shall produce distinct results.

* '''The Fraction of Being''' - Through madness we find inspiration, and madness is oft found in things that are alien to us. The Cauldron of Fractions contains fragments of personality offered from those around the world who deal with the Azoth. Those willing to tear out a piece of themselves and offer it to the cauldron may choose a fragment previous given up by someone not of the Empire. The trade must always be one to one, and is permanent. So the cycle goes, on and on.

After a brief pause, they then continue to describe the offerings available from the other denizens of the Night realm:

* '''[[Sadogua]]''' shall offer visitors opportunities to dredge treasures from his Mire of Indulgences
* '''[[Lashonar]]''' has been quite vociferous regarding its Talking Shop and the heap of ‘treasures’ it has gathered from across the world to barter, like for like, with citizens willing to engage in eloquent exchange.
* '''[[Sung]]''' shall not herself send representatives (or maybe she will, it is not clear, the herald admits) - but instead shall engage the Archmage of Night to ensure that the market is awash with music from the finest musicians the Empire may send: magical mysteries shall be imparted to the Archmage to reward those that compete to create an aura of mystery over the whole affair.
* '''[[Janon]]''' exhorts attendees to effuse with passion and shall offer a space for those with a fire in their spirit to move their peers. Those with a talent for speech will find their prowess alloyed with the Shadowed Flame’s power.
* '''The [[Whisper Gallery]]''', as might be expected, have chosen to keep their contribution a secret.

==Starlight Seeks Its Form (Day)==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Coral Library declines a formal parley with the Archmage of Day'''
* '''Instead, a pocket of its archives will be accessible within the Hall of Worlds from 10:30 on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox'''
* '''Heralds of Phaleron will visit the Hall of Worlds and may channel the complete writings of the cultures requested by the Archmage of Day'''
* '''Unlocking this boon will require aid from Imperial magicians
A rushed civil servant almost steps on the lizard-like creature seemingly crafted from folded parchment which emerges from the Imperial regio one early spring morning. After some failed attempts at communication, it's finally discovered that unfolding the paper scales across the creature's back reveals neat penmanship that changes each time it is revealed. With an indignant rustle, the herald claims to be ''scale mail'' sent from the [[Phaleron|Great Library]].

It assures the civil service in writing that the [[Archmage of Day]] was wise to seek out the ''Archives of Silence'' in a quest for guidance. A great many civilisations which once regularly sent writings to the library have long since ceased to do so. ''Phaleron'' has seen the rise and fall of ages and societies - and more than that, it has heard of their fears and hopes through their own voices. Those words remain as part of its collection, a testament to what has passed from the world.

From half-past-ten on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox, a collection of works from the Library will be made available to the Empire at their Hall of Worlds. Such works discuss the end of things, the fall of civilisations, the decay of culture, the growth of societies at the loss of what they once were - and of those left behind. It is the Archive's hope that those who visit the collection may add their own writings. As a rare boon, Imperial citizens are also welcome to take away any singular piece which speaks to them.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Gralka1693.jpg||caption='''Gralka''', Archmage of Day|align=right|width=200}}
The collection will be available all Sunday, so there is no need for readers to rush to the collection. It will be accompanied by heralds during the morning, but the writings will remain for the entire day.

There is, however, some confusion amongst the attendants of the Coral Library. It seems, from the Archmage's words, that she wishes to document the lives of certain cultures herself. A noble act. Once a great many scholars undertake, and certainly such writings would be welcomed into the coral shelves. But it seems there has been an assumption that the Great Library lacks words from these cultures' own pens. Since the Archmage and the Empire wish to learn more about these civilisations, the Archive can - with some support from Imperial mages - instead provide the collective writings they have submitted to the Archive.
<div style="float:right; max-width: 600px; min-width: 350px; clear: left;"><box> '''Out of character information'''<br>
The collection in the Hall of Worlds will be available throughout time-in on Sunday, but the lector heralds will only be available to channel from 11:00-11:30.

This encounter involves reading written (and sometimes handwritten) text. There will be NPCs available to read aloud to anyone who needs it between 10:30-11:30.

The intention with the request for items related to the named cultures is not to provide an impossible puzzle where players must search for the one item received on a Rahvin encounter countless events ago. Any ribboned item with a suitable story attached to it would meet the criteria - a weapon from a character who campaigned in a relevant location and has a story to tell which relates to that culture would be an excellent example. The item does not need to have a relevant vision response to the ritual, but unlike in usual circumstances the mana will still be used and the ritual still cast even if there is mechanically speaking no vision response. It should be noted that the Skein of Years ritual is not appropriate to use in this encounter, as it only shares the vision amongst the ritualists.</box></div>

It would take centuries for attendants of the Library to dredge up all relevant writings submitted to it by a certain culture -- and it has unfortunately become plain to the attendants that it is rare for a reader to possess such patience. Work has begun on consolidating the collections requested by the Archmage, but for this to be achievable within her mortal lifetime, Imperial mages must provide some support.

Four library attendants known as ''lectors'' will visit the Hall of Worlds from eleven in the morning on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox. The Archmage should source and bring an object relating to each culture to one of the lectors. This might not necessarily be an item originating ''from'' its culture - a sword which fought in the hand of someone hoping to save a fragment of the culture, or indeed a hammer which forged chains that bound that culture's people, would both be adequate examples. Once the item is in the lector's hands, a ritual which would share visions of that item's history with the herald must be cast - the most likely example would be ''Revelations of the Past''. This magic is not part of either [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial]] or [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore|Urizen lore]], but the ''Crystalline Archive'' knows that there are magicians in the Empire capable of casting it. The second step for the Archmage will be to track some of them down. The vision the ritual provides will serve as a "hook" which the lector can leverage to spontaneously channel the culture's writings. Such lectors have begun the process of consolidating the writings of the cultures known as the Bloodwater Spears, the Waterwalkers, the Rahvin and the Vendarri.

There is one last, slightly awkward element which the attendants to the Library wish to ensure the Empire understands. They, naturally, believe the writings of a culture to be a perfect path to understanding it. But they are not so bull-headed as to believe that all writings from a culture are submitted to their coral shelves. Their knowledge is, sadly, imperfect. Beautiful, comprehensive, diverse. But not complete.

==Sharp Fangs Behind The Leaves (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">[[file:Centipede General.png]]</div>
* '''Arhallogen declines parley at this time
* '''It has set out a number of criteria whereby the Conclave might win its favour
A herald of [[Arhallogen]] appears at Spiral Castle shortly after the Winter Solstice. It did not take long, it seems, for the plenipotentiary of '''Ibiss Briarheart''' to be digested. Arhallogen respects the decision of the Archmage to move on to hunt different prey. They did not always have a positive relationship, but that is only right and proper for two masters of the hunt. The ''Apex Predator'' wishes him all the best in facing whomever he chooses to point the tip of his staff at next, and trusts he will show them no mercy. As a parting gift, Arhallogen has made an offer to his people as outlined in the {{TBC}} wind of fortune.

The Archmage mentions a great number of things, some of which should be addressed in full plenipotentiaries of their own. When it comes to the armies and septs of the Druj that the Empire is capably conquering, their treatment of those who reside in Nesustak Forest tells the ''Scorpion Queen'' that there is no offer she can make this season that the Empire would have the stomach for. The matter of the Palace of Sleepers can be discussed at a future date if and when it returns from... wherever it has gone. As to the other boons requested, the Empire must show some willingness to use the tools they already have first. Fresh meat does not simply fall into one's lap slain and skinned; effort must be put in, the hunt must first be completed.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ibiss8557.jpg||caption='''Ibiss Briarheart''', Archmage of Spring|align=right|width=200}}
Arhallogen appreciates that the [[Archmage of Spring]]'s last plenipotentiary to the ''Centipede General'' gives it an opportunity to address the wider issues it sees in its relationship with the Empire, given that the new Archmage should be apprised of the current state of things moving forward. In the many, many eyes of the ''Scorpion Queen'', the Imperial Conclave has been ruined by the influence of [[Irra_Harah|''Wet Crunch'']] and the [[Ossegrahn|''Sap'']], even after the creation of the [[Silver Chalice]] as its first mistake. Even the once formidable military council has fallen to foolishness, preferring to fight under the counter-productive [[Rivers of Life]] at every turn. The once great [[Gryphon's Pride]] has become a little more than a herd of prey animals, and the three peoples' idolisation of the folly of "honour" leaves a sick taste in the mouths of the ''Centipede General''.

The ''Envenomed Blade'' is not one to give up a fight easily, however, and thus has chosen to offer the Conclave some great and powerful boons if it is prepared to reverse its decline and not let its current victories make it complacent and weak, valid until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE. In each instance, the raising magician of the successful [[declaration]] involved will receive a gift of five pawns of [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]]. Other boons will be granted depending on the nature of the action the Conclave takes - including [[arcane projection|arcane projections]] for magical rituals that could be [[College of magic|codified]], and potentially even made a part of [[Imperial lore]] or [[Urizen lore]]. The civil service notes that the magics mentioned will certainly have assurances, but that ''Sharp Fangs Behind the Leaves'' has not disclosed what they might be.

* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Interdiction_:_Savagery_of_Armies|savage army enchantment]], Arhallogen will watch Imperial armies for a year, and offer the one who displays the strongest killer instincts a significant boon.
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[Rivers Run Red]], Arhallogen will provide the magician who raises the [[Interdiction#License|Declaration of License]] with an [[arcane projection]] called ''Instincts of the Shadow-Hunter'' that improves an army's ability to pursue prey as she does - a ritual well known in one form or another to the [[Druj]].
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]], Arhallogen will provide the magician who raises the Declaration of License with an arcane projection called ''Enveloped in the Dripping Web'', a much more potent version of [[Fire in the Blood]].
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on the potion set [[Double-sided Blade]], Arhallogen will offer a bequeathment of [[herb|herbs]] and [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]] to the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries' Guild]] which they can use to make dangerous blade venoms. Or heal people. Whichever.
* If the Conclave places the perfidious [[Irra Harah]] under enmity, it will teach all Imperial artisans how to make a one-handed weapon similar to the [[Barbed Spear]] that will prove [[Calls#VENOM|useful]] when fighting the vallorn. Or indeed any other enemy.
* If the Conclave places the soporific [[Ossegrahn]] under enmity, it will present an opportunity to aid the Empire in its war against the [[Grendel|Orcs of the Broken Shore]]. To be absolutely clear, this will involve the killing of many Grendel. The Grendel are also interested in seeking a boon from the ''Mother of Stonefish'', so it may behove the Conclave to move quickly on that one.

According to the ''Skittering-Dark'', if the Conclave does not change its course, and soon, something truly awful might happen. It does not say what this thing might be, for fear of encouraging the perverse elements within the Empire that would promote a disaster so recently averted.

==Shifting Memory of Ages (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width:225px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WiseRangara.jpg|align=right|width=225}}</div>
* '''''Eldest Sister'' has agreed to a meeting with the heroes of Empire'''
* '''She invites the Wise Ones of Varushka to name six Varushkan storytellers to visit her and learn the wisdom of her stories'''
* '''These storytellers take on responsibility to spread Grandmother Winter's tales to Anvil'''
* '''The chosen storytellers are to meet her herald at 15:50, to be taken hence to her campfire.'''
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: Pink;">'''Known Storytellers'''</tr>
<tr><td> Anastasia "Ana" Varenye </td></tr>
<tr><td> Anatolij Paukov Zorkin </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bregeslav </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cvijeta Ravenkova </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jurand Biegacz </td></tr>
<tr><td> Katarina </td></tr>
<tr><td> Katerina Pavukov Novosad </td></tr>
<tr><td> Korvak Zovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kłamca Bzdura </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laumina Yulenkaovich Delmorozov </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maja Świętosława Przewałski </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslav "XIII" Ruparcic </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mojca Sanjač </td></tr>
<tr><td> Nikolai "The Butcher" Petravich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Radomir Illyot Shallotovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rolnik Cytryn </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vera </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vlodikaz Ivarovich Vardovich (known as Vlod) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vukovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Yasna Yalinovsky Labzov </td></tr>
</table></div>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bloodcrow Arora.jpg|caption='''Bloodcrow Arora''', Archmage of Winter|align=left|width=250}}
A spry young thing comes to Anvil. Despite the blazing mortal sun, they are wrapped in many layers of tattered rags and greasy furs. When they skip lightly into the [[Civil Service|civil service]] tent, those present are struck by the age in their eyes. Then they smile, and it is polite, disarming, and threatening all at once.

Still, what the [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] has to say is simple enough, or so it would seem. [[Wise Rangara|''Augur-at-the-campfire'']] thanks Bloodcrow Arora in the kindest terms, but stories must be told in the right way, at the right time. She therefore pronounces that she will tell her stories to no more than six [[Varushka_religious_beliefs#Storytellers|storytellers]] of [[Varushka]], to be chosen by the [[Varushka_religious_beliefs|Wise Ones]] of that nation. If they are Wise of understanding and skilful in their craft, they shall prove themselves to the ''Clever Spider'' by sharing her tales with Anvil. Word-for-word is not ''the Venerable Guest's'' way, the important thing is that the right meaning is imparted to the right people.

The herald suggests interested storytellers go to the Varushkan National Assembly meeting, which they understand to be taking place at 19:00 on the Friday of the summit, in the tent of Vor'zai, and that the Varushkan Wise Ones take steps to choose the best. Also, the best storytellers may not be the best magicians. The herald drily notes that if the wizards of the Empire desire her wisdom as ardently as they appear, then ''the Pale Raven'' is confident that they can acquire sufficient [[Pauper's_Key|Pauper's Keys]].

Regardless, once the six are chosen, the Archmage of Winter should bring them to the Hall of Worlds at four in the afternoon on the Saturday of the coming summit. From there, a herald will take them to a hut in the wild woods where stories may be told. It will begin as a parley, but if that turns out to be too constraining for the telling of tales, then it might be needful to put it aside. Regardless, she promises that no harm will befall the storytellers - unless they bring some harm with them, of course.

==Many Minds Move As One (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width:225px; clear: right;">{{HoverImage|SaltAndSail001.png|Turtle_city.jpg}}</div>
* '''A representative from the City of Salt and Sail will journey to the Hall of Worlds at 10.00 in the morning on Saturday
* '''They hope to meet with the Archmage of Autumn in a formal parley
* '''Several items that the archmage suggested will be on the agenda
A few weeks before the Spring Equinox, a missive arrives at the Hub. Most of the civil servants have either experienced or observed the slightly odd feeling of being delivered a letter accompanied by nothing more than a muted flutter of wings. It is apparently an altogether different experience when the flutter of wings is more of boisterous flapping accompanied by raucous cawing, as if the missive was delivered by an unseen dire gull (albeit one significantly less murderously minded than the typical dire gull). Once the civil servants on duty had finished calming down and collecting the paperwork displaced by the things' invisible wings, they carefully read the missive, and they have made the contents public knowledge.

The missive is from ''Ptolemy, Custodian of the Infinite Rookery'', who intends to visit the Hall of Worlds in response to a plenipotentiary sent by '''Vossk''', [[Archmage of Autumn]]. Ptolemy represents the ''City of Salt and Sail''; a city of the [[Realm#Autumn|Autumn realm]] unknown to the Empire. Ptolemy proposes the following agenda:
{{CaptionedImage|file=Vossk.jpg|caption='''Vossk''', Archmage of Autumn|align=right|width=250}}
# '''Introductions''' - in which each party establishes their bona fides.
# '''Agenda''' - a <u>short</u> discussion to confirm that body parties are happy with the proposed agenda for the rest of the meeting.
# '''Winged Messengers''' - to focus on their functions and assurances.
# '''Boons for Salt and Sail''' - to explore the Empire's needs for magical assistance with fleets and navies to see if they can be profitably met by the City.
# '''Ports''' - as above, but with an emphasis on both improvement and protection.
# '''Minutes''' - a comparison of minutes taken by both parties to ensure they are in agreement.
# '''Close''' - meeting closes with a formal agreement that both parties will then depart.

The City has allocated one hour for this meeting. Both parties are to make good faith efforts to avoid a costly overrun.

Ptolemy wishes to make clear that the City would prefer to avoid price discovery at this stage, and that Ptolemy is not approved to agree initial or final terms. This is a preliminary meeting to explore what options exist for profitable exchange with a view to subsequent communication to establish heads of terms before moving to signed contracts.

One thing that must be clear from the outset is that the city will not involve itself in any matters vis-a-vis the war between the Empire and [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavea]]. Even to contemplate the possibility of discussion of this conflict might undermine the stance of strict neutrality that is a binding requirement of all heralds of the City of Salt and Sail placed on them by the one under whose auspices they travel.

==Timetable==
There are comparatively few meetings taking place during this summit. The times, the locations, and the eternals involved are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 19:00 || [[Cathan Canae]] || Summer || Parley; Archmage and up to five guests are invited to the chamber where it will take place
|-
| Saturday || 10.00 || Salt and Sail || Autumn || Parley; hosted in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday || 16.00 || [[Wise Rangara]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and up to six Varushkan storytellers invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 22:00 || [[Azoth]] || Night || Not a parley; a Shadow Souk will take place in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Sunday || 10:00 || [[Phaleron]] || Day || Not a parley; a pocket of the archives will manifest in the Hall of Worlds
|-
|}

Key of dreams

2026-06-08T23:55:12Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Starlight Seeks Its Form (Day) */ Returning Once to Greatness

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Do you know what the three keys to solving a problem are?"

Ophelia was in her robe, half asleep, not expecting guests. Especially not a guest as peculiar as the one at her chamber door. One of the realities of life above a regio was that sometimes very strange people - for a given value - turned up in your bedroom at all hours of the night. This one she knew as Blue; barely three feet tall with a kind face, long turquoise hair, and a flexible tail that ended in a shock of aquamarine strands. They wore a flowing woollen dark-green robe cinched at what amounted to their waist with a rope belt. They rarely bothered to be invited in, and tonight was no exception. They bustled past her and jumped up onto the chair near the table, starting to go through the reagents there without being asked.

"It's very late," said Ophelia. She had no particular hope that her visitor would appreciate the hour.

"That's nice dear," said the creature. It shook a little bottle containing rusted iron filings before discarding it; licked a ring of ilium with every sign of enthusiasm; stuck one thick nail-less finger into a pestle of ground realmsroot and sniffed it suspiciously. "The three keys to solving a problem? I'll give you a clue - there's four of them."

Ophelia shut the door, and lifted the cap over the lightstone partially, illuminating the room a little better. Blue had stopped poking around her work table and was instead pulling books out of the bookcase one at a time, piling them up to make a stool to sit on. The Urizeni stargazer had never seen Blue, or any of her kin, actually ''read'' a book. She wasn't sure they even knew what they were.

"Well I suppose there's a riddle there - how can three..."

Blue wasn't listening.

"The first key is Thinking About The Thing. That's when you try to work out what the problem actually is, and what to do about it. That's the most important key obviously."

"Obviously, so..."

"The second key is Talking About The Thing. That's when you put words on your thought. Makes your thoughts real, you see. Also it lets you boss people around or, if the problem is really bad, work with others. That's the most vital of all the keys obviously."

''Oh'', thought Ophelia. ''It's going to be one of <u>those</u> kinds of conversations''.

"The third key is Actually Doing The Thing." Blue had pulled a length of something long and clear that looked like glass out of her robe, and was chewing on it with every sign of enthusiasm. Ophelia could hear it splintering. She wasn't sure how - Blue had no teeth in her wide, unlipped mouth. "That's when you actually try to solve the problem, and find out if any of your keys fit the lock. That's definitely the most important key."

Blue looked at her through half lidded eyes. Ophelia sipped a little of the water from her night-stand.

"So the fourth key..." she said thoughtfully. She considered everything she knew about Blue and her kind, and their patron. "I think you want me to think the fourth key is the last one, but actually I think... yes. It's actually the first one."

The little herald sat on their stool of books swinging their legs, kicking their heels against an antique copy of the ''Vojaĝtaglibroj de Vojaĝanta Onklo Matt'' which her grandmother had acquired for a small fortune at Anvil one Summer. Her expression, usually open and enthusiastic, was unreadable.

"I think the first key, then, the first key is the key of... inspiration? Having a spark that turns into a thought, then a plan, then action?"

Blue nodded her head in approval.

"The Key of Dreams," said her strange little guest seriously, and Ophelia could hear the capital letters. "The key that unlocks the cabinet where the other keys are kept, so you can use them to open your lock. Which is in this case your problem! Whatever that is."

''Aha!'' thought Ophelia. An opening!

"Well, as I said to your... fellow dweller, the little yellow worried one. I've been experimenting with realmsroot and I'm convinced there's a way to transform it into..."

Blue jumped down from the stool, and hopped up onto the bedside table. From inside their robe they produced a bright red fruit - or perhaps a vegetable - shaped a little like a stylised heart.

"Here you go!" they said in a slightly dreamy tone. "This'll help you find the first key you're looking for. All you have to do is eat it."

The little herald smiled, as Ophelia reached out to take the fruit, and if there was something unsettling in their half-lidded eyes, the Urizeni was too focused on the gift being offered to notice.</ic>
<div style="float:left; max-width: 400px; min-width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ornate Key.jpg|caption=They key turns, but what does it unlock?|align=right|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''Six eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil, apparently in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Five have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
* '''The other has provided messages, opportunities, or gifts of one type or another'''
As the Winter Solstice approaches, the [[eternal|eternals]] respond to the [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages of the six [[archmage|archmages]]. Each of the six is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response. Some eternals will arrange a [[Archmage#Parley|parley]] or some kind, a personal meeting with themselves or more commonly one of their favoured lieutenants. Others may take more direct action, offering [[opportunity|opportunities]] to secure boons or enlist the eternal's power to change the Empire in some way. Sometimes they decline the offer of meetings or boons, but even then they are likely to provide their reasons for doing so.

Since the Autumn Equinox, messengers representing six eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==Hearth-vigil (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:CathCane002.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
* '''The Queen of Ice and Darkness has received the plenipotentiary of the Summer Archmage
* '''A parley will take place in a chamber reached via the Hall of Worlds at 19:00 on Friday during the summit
* '''Cathan Canae expects the Archmage to return the ritual text for the Fist of Black Ice
* '''The Archmage may include up to five others as part of their entourage
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose

An enormous ogre, around whom swirls a miasma of frost and ice emerges from the Imperial Regio and marches with purpose towards the Civil Service tent. Any who stand too close feel the biting cold emanating from it, and those who do not get out of its way fast enough have to leap out of its way to not be swatted or crushed by its huge limbs. When it reaches the Hub, it slams its fist down on Jorgen's desk, causing splinters to shoot out and for the desk itself to emit an almighty groan.

The [[Cathan_Canae|''Immovable One'']] has received the missive from the Archmage of Summer, '''Lady Keepsake''', yet has no desire to meet representatives from the Empire in person ''at this time''. Instead, she will be represented by the ''Thane of the Rimebound Shore'', who shall speak on her behalf. The ''Indomitable Queen'' is a fair and considered ruler; she approves of the focus of the plenipotentiary and will hear out the Archmage as is appropriate for when one great court deals with another. If the representatives of ''The Indefatigable Sparrow'' wish to give their reasons for decommissioning [[Spiral#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]] and the Eastern Guard, they will have their opportunity. She is not so quick to lose her temper as [[Eleonaris]], who is so eager to start roaring at any perceived slight, but it should be understood that the ''Majestic Glacier's'' [[Summer_magic#Wroth|wroth]] is being restrained, not that it does not exist.
{{CaptionedImage|file=ArchmageSummer.jpg|caption='''Mirella of the Twisted Rose''', Archmage of Summer|align=right|width=250}}
While the ''Lady of the Frost'' may be fair, she is not easily swayed. An assurance has been broken. A troth plighted by the Empire shattered. An [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation|assurance]] is a promise. It is a solemn oath. It is a sworn vow. To break it, is a terrible thing. The Immovable One cannot overlook this. Thus, the ''Queen of Ice and Darkness'' wants it to be clear that there is <u>no circumstance</u> under which the Archmage will be coming back from the parley with a [[The_thing_with_feathers#Hope's_Rest_(Cathan_Canae)|renewed ritual text for the '''Fist of Black Ice''']].

The ''Immovable One'' respects the decision of the Archmage to come to her immediately, to stand her ground and make her case, not to hide and wait until the blizzard no longer howls. It is good that Lady Keepsake is willing to face the storm head on - it is the only way to begin to rebuild what has been razed. But the Archmage ''must'' bring the now-ruined ritual text to the meeting to be returned to the ''Mistress of Blizzards'' as a first step before any further aid for Imperial magicians will be discussed. The Queen will look elsewhere to find a worthy recipient for that particular gift - the Empire must do without.

The Archmage may bring up to five guests. ''The Breath of Winter'' asks the Archmage to bring a representative of the '''Phonenix Rising''' coven as one of the five. She plans to reward them for [[The_thing_with_feathers#Hope's_Rest_(Cathan_Canae)|completing the task to call forth her citadel]] into [[The Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]] in [[the Barrens]]. Too often, the labours of those who raise the walls are overlooked. ''The Lady of the Frost'' would like to present the witches with a personal gift in recognition of their efforts. They should bring a set of [[Weapons_%26_armour#Mage_Armour|mage armour]] that has not already been worked by an artisan for her herald to imbue with a shard of her power. As to the rest, the Archmage may choose as she pleases and may, or may not, include the [[Senator]] for [[Spiral]] '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''' and Master '''Watt Lambrook''' as she prefers. They will be welcomed with all due hospitality as the Archmage has requested, but they should not expect it to be a ''warm'' welcome.

==Finder of Paths Unseen (Night)==
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Crucible.png|align=right|width=250}}</div>
* '''Azoth will create a night market at 22:00 on Saturday at the coming summit'''
* '''Anyone who wishes may visit to purchase various offerings in exchange for coins, ingots and measures'''
* '''Servants of many of the Night eternals will be present including the Whisper Gallery'''

A "distillation", a herald of [[Azoth]] comes to Anvil bearing a message. The Azoth shall dissolve the barriers between the [[Hall of Worlds]] and a region of the [[Realm#Night|Night realm]] known as the '''Shadow Souk'''. In this chamber, representatives of many [[Archmage_of_Night#The_Eternals_of_Night|wyrms and serpents]] come together to mix and, in their joining, produce change, inspiration and other things upon which the Night thrives. Those mortals who dare join them will find amusements, indulgences, mysteries and secrets refined from across the lived world and the depths of Night’s oceans.

The ''Crucible'' invites citizens to come, to make merry and to be transformed. Those who attend will emerge from its dimly lit avenues transfigured in body, mind or soul; to be made ready for a new age. The herald includes a warning: visitors ''must'' be prepared to entreat with representatives of eternals that the Empire has chosen to quench via [[Alignment#Night|enmity]]. Alchemy, they say, is never without its impurities.

Azoth will offer the following gifts at the market:

* '''The Crucible of Twinned Souls''' - The magisterium of two distinct wholes shall extend the same rebirth to interested citizens. Two spirits that enter into the Crucible of Twinned Souls will be mixed, fused and reformed into two new beings possessing a unique blend of the memories, attitudes, experiences, hopes, and dreams of their progenitors. The process shall be catalysed by a measure of [[weltsilver]] provided by each of the participants and will work best on those whose spirits are already familiar with each other.

* '''The Solvent of Thought''' - Distilled from the raw essence of Night, this elixir roils with innumerable memories. For those with a handful of small coins, or a measure of [[Game_items#Materials|something more precious]], patrons may take these memories into themselves, or expunge a memory of their own and cast it into the solvent.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', Archmage of Night|align=right|width=250}}
* '''Twilit Pigments''' - Art is transformative, sublimating the rarefied vapours of emotion into myriad forms concentrated into shapes either material or ethereal that serve in turn to transform the hearts of those who imbibe them. To such alchemists of the heart, Azoth shall dispense their twilit pigments. For a fee these essences may be applied to the skin, or provided for use in the artist’s own works and in each case shall produce distinct results.

* '''The Fraction of Being''' - Through madness we find inspiration, and madness is oft found in things that are alien to us. The Cauldron of Fractions contains fragments of personality offered from those around the world who deal with the Azoth. Those willing to tear out a piece of themselves and offer it to the cauldron may choose a fragment previous given up by someone not of the Empire. The trade must always be one to one, and is permanent. So the cycle goes, on and on.

After a brief pause, they then continue to describe the offerings available from the other denizens of the Night realm:

* '''[[Sadogua]]''' shall offer visitors opportunities to dredge treasures from his Mire of Indulgences
* '''[[Lashonar]]''' has been quite vociferous regarding its Talking Shop and the heap of ‘treasures’ it has gathered from across the world to barter, like for like, with citizens willing to engage in eloquent exchange.
* '''[[Sung]]''' shall not herself send representatives (or maybe she will, it is not clear, the herald admits) - but instead shall engage the Archmage of Night to ensure that the market is awash with music from the finest musicians the Empire may send: magical mysteries shall be imparted to the Archmage to reward those that compete to create an aura of mystery over the whole affair.
* '''[[Janon]]''' exhorts attendees to effuse with passion and shall offer a space for those with a fire in their spirit to move their peers. Those with a talent for speech will find their prowess alloyed with the Shadowed Flame’s power.
* '''The [[Whisper Gallery]]''', as might be expected, have chosen to keep their contribution a secret.

==Starlight Seeks Its Form (Day)==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''The Coral Library declines a formal parley with the Archmage of Day'''
* '''Instead, a pocket of its archives will be accessible within the Hall of Worlds from 10:30 on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox'''
* '''Heralds of Phaleron will visit the Hall of Worlds and may channel the complete writings of the cultures requested by the Archmage of Day'''
* '''Unlocking this boon will require aid from Imperial magicians
A rushed civil servant almost steps on the lizard-like creature seemingly crafted from folded parchment which emerges from the Imperial regio one early spring morning. After some failed attempts at communication, it's finally discovered that unfolding the paper scales across the creature's back reveals neat penmanship that changes each time it is revealed. With an indignant rustle, the herald claims to be ''scale mail'' sent from the [[Phaleron|Great Library]].

It assures the civil service in writing that the [[Archmage of Day]] was wise to seek out the ''Archives of Silence'' in a quest for guidance. A great many civilisations which once regularly sent writings to the library have long since ceased to do so. ''Phaleron'' has seen the rise and fall of ages and societies - and more than that, it has heard of their fears and hopes through their own voices. Those words remain as part of its collection, a testament to what has passed from the world.

From half-past-ten on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox, a collection of works from the Library will be made available to the Empire at their Hall of Worlds. Such works discuss the end of things, the fall of civilisations, the decay of culture, the growth of societies at the loss of what they once were - and of those left behind. It is the Archive's hope that those who visit the collection may add their own writings. As a rare boon, Imperial citizens are also welcome to take away any singular piece which speaks to them.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Gralka1693.jpg||caption='''Gralka''', Archmage of Day|align=right|width=200}}
The collection will be available all Sunday, so there is no need for readers to rush to the collection. It will be accompanied by heralds during the morning, but the writings will remain for the entire day.

There is, however, some confusion amongst the attendants of the Coral Library. It seems, from the Archmage's words, that she wishes to document the lives of certain cultures herself. A noble act. Once a great many scholars undertake, and certainly such writings would be welcomed into the coral shelves. But it seems there has been an assumption that the Great Library lacks words from these cultures' own pens. Since the Archmage and the Empire wish to learn more about these civilisations, the Archive can - with some support from Imperial mages - instead provide the collective writings they have submitted to the Archive.
<div style="float:right; max-width: 600px; min-width: 350px; clear: left;"><box> '''Out of character information'''<br>
The collection in the Hall of Worlds will be available throughout time-in on Sunday, but the lector heralds will only be available to channel from 11:00-11:30.

This encounter involves reading written (and sometimes handwritten) text. There will be NPCs available to read aloud to anyone who needs it between 10:30-11:30.

The intention with the request for items related to the named cultures is not to provide an impossible puzzle where players must search for the one item received on a Rahvin encounter countless events ago. Any ribboned item with a suitable story attached to it would meet the criteria - a weapon from a character who campaigned in a relevant location and has a story to tell which relates to that culture would be an excellent example. The item does not need to have a relevant vision response to the ritual, but unlike in usual circumstances the mana will sill be used and the ritual still cast even if there is mechanically speaking no vision response. It should be noted that the Skein of Years ritual is not appropriate to use in this encounter, as it only shares the vision amongst the ritualists.</box></div>

It would take centuries for attendants of the Library to dredge up all relevant writings submitted to it by a certain culture -- and it has unfortunately become plain to the attendants that it is rare for a reader to possess such patience. Work has begun on consolidating the collections requested by the Archmage, but for this to be achievable within her mortal lifetime, Imperial mages must provide some support.

Four library attendants known as ''lectors'' will visit the Hall of Worlds from eleven in the morning on the Sunday of the Spring Equinox. The Archmage should source and bring an object relating to each culture to one of the lectors. This might not necessarily be an item originating ''from'' its culture - a sword which fought in the hand of someone hoping to save a fragment of the culture, or indeed a hammer which forged chains that bound that culture's people, would both be adequate examples. Once the item is in the lector's hands, a ritual which would share visions of that item's history with the herald must be cast - the most likely example would be ''Revelations of the Past''. This magic is not part of either [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial]] or [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore|Urizen lore]], but the ''Crystalline Archive'' knows that there are magicians in the Empire capable of casting it. The second step for the Archmage will be to track some of them down. The vision the ritual provides will serve as a "hook" which the lector can leverage to spontaneously channel the culture's writings. Such lectors have begun the process of consolidating the writings of the cultures known as the Bloodwater Spears, the Waterwalkers, the Rahvin and the Vendarri.

There is one last, slightly awkward element which the attendants to the Library wish to ensure the Empire understands. They, naturally, believe the writings of a culture to be a perfect path to understanding it. But they are not so bull-headed as to believe that all writings from a culture are submitted to their coral shelves. Their knowledge is, sadly, imperfect. Beautiful, comprehensive, diverse. But not complete.

==Sharp Fangs Behind The Leaves (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">[[file:Centipede General.png]]</div>
* '''Arhallogen declines parley at this time
* '''It has set out a number of criteria whereby the Conclave might win its favour
A herald of [[Arhallogen]] appears at Spiral Castle shortly after the Winter Solstice. It did not take long, it seems, for the plenipotentiary of '''Ibiss Briarheart''' to be digested. Arhallogen respects the decision of the Archmage to move on to hunt different prey. They did not always have a positive relationship, but that is only right and proper for two masters of the hunt. The ''Apex Predator'' wishes him all the best in facing whomever he chooses to point the tip of his staff at next, and trusts he will show them no mercy. As a parting gift, Arhallogen has made an offer to his people as outlined in the {{TBC}} wind of fortune.

The Archmage mentions a great number of things, some of which should be addressed in full plenipotentiaries of their own. When it comes to the armies and septs of the Druj that the Empire is capably conquering, their treatment of those who reside in Nesustak Forest tells the ''Scorpion Queen'' that there is no offer she can make this season that the Empire would have the stomach for. The matter of the Palace of Sleepers can be discussed at a future date if and when it returns from... wherever it has gone. As to the other boons requested, the Empire must show some willingness to use the tools they already have first. Fresh meat does not simply fall into one's lap slain and skinned; effort must be put in, the hunt must first be completed.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ibiss8557.jpg||caption='''Ibiss Briarheart''', Archmage of Spring|align=right|width=200}}
Arhallogen appreciates that the [[Archmage of Spring]]'s last plenipotentiary to the ''Centipede General'' gives it an opportunity to address the wider issues it sees in its relationship with the Empire, given that the new Archmage should be apprised of the current state of things moving forward. In the many, many eyes of the ''Scorpion Queen'', the Imperial Conclave has been ruined by the influence of [[Irra_Harah|''Wet Crunch'']] and the [[Ossegrahn|''Sap'']], even after the creation of the [[Silver Chalice]] as its first mistake. Even the once formidable military council has fallen to foolishness, preferring to fight under the counter-productive [[Rivers of Life]] at every turn. The once great [[Gryphon's Pride]] has become a little more than a herd of prey animals, and the three peoples' idolisation of the folly of "honour" leaves a sick taste in the mouths of the ''Centipede General''.

The ''Envenomed Blade'' is not one to give up a fight easily, however, and thus has chosen to offer the Conclave some great and powerful boons if it is prepared to reverse its decline and not let its current victories make it complacent and weak, valid until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE. In each instance, the raising magician of the successful [[declaration]] involved will receive a gift of five pawns of [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]]. Other boons will be granted depending on the nature of the action the Conclave takes - including [[arcane projection|arcane projections]] for magical rituals that could be [[College of magic|codified]], and potentially even made a part of [[Imperial lore]] or [[Urizen lore]]. The civil service notes that the magics mentioned will certainly have assurances, but that ''Sharp Fangs Behind the Leaves'' has not disclosed what they might be.

* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Interdiction_:_Savagery_of_Armies|savage army enchantment]], Arhallogen will watch Imperial armies for a year, and offer the one who displays the strongest killer instincts a significant boon.
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[Rivers Run Red]], Arhallogen will provide the magician who raises the [[Interdiction#License|Declaration of License]] with an [[arcane projection]] called ''Instincts of the Shadow-Hunter'' that improves an army's ability to pursue prey as she does - a ritual well known in one form or another to the [[Druj]].
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]], Arhallogen will provide the magician who raises the Declaration of License with an arcane projection called ''Enveloped in the Dripping Web'', a much more potent version of [[Fire in the Blood]].
* If the Conclave removes the interdiction on the potion set [[Double-sided Blade]], Arhallogen will offer a bequeathment of [[herb|herbs]] and [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]] to the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries' Guild]] which they can use to make dangerous blade venoms. Or heal people. Whichever.
* If the Conclave places the perfidious [[Irra Harah]] under enmity, it will teach all Imperial artisans how to make a one-handed weapon similar to the [[Barbed Spear]] that will prove [[Calls#VENOM|useful]] when fighting the vallorn. Or indeed any other enemy.
* If the Conclave places the soporific [[Ossegrahn]] under enmity, it will present an opportunity to aid the Empire in its war against the [[Grendel|Orcs of the Broken Shore]]. To be absolutely clear, this will involve the killing of many Grendel. The Grendel are also interested in seeking a boon from the ''Mother of Stonefish'', so it may behove the Conclave to move quickly on that one.

According to the ''Skittering-Dark'', if the Conclave does not change its course, and soon, something truly awful might happen. It does not say what this thing might be, for fear of encouraging the perverse elements within the Empire that would promote a disaster so recently averted.

==Shifting Memory of Ages (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width:225px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WiseRangara.jpg|align=right|width=225}}</div>
* '''''Eldest Sister'' has agreed to a meeting with the heroes of Empire'''
* '''She invites the Wise Ones of Varushka to name six Varushkan storytellers to visit her and learn the wisdom of her stories'''
* '''These storytellers take on responsibility to spread Grandmother Winter's tales to Anvil'''
* '''The chosen storytellers are to meet her herald at 15:50, to be taken hence to her campfire.'''
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: Pink;">'''Known Storytellers'''</tr>
<tr><td> Anastasia "Ana" Varenye </td></tr>
<tr><td> Anatolij Paukov Zorkin </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bregeslav </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cvijeta Ravenkova </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jurand Biegacz </td></tr>
<tr><td> Katarina </td></tr>
<tr><td> Katerina Pavukov Novosad </td></tr>
<tr><td> Korvak Zovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kłamca Bzdura </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laumina Yulenkaovich Delmorozov </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maja Świętosława Przewałski </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslav "XIII" Ruparcic </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mojca Sanjač </td></tr>
<tr><td> Nikolai "The Butcher" Petravich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Radomir Illyot Shallotovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rolnik Cytryn </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vera </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vlodikaz Ivarovich Vardovich (known as Vlod) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vukovich </td></tr>
<tr><td> Yasna Yalinovsky Labzov </td></tr>
</table></div>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bloodcrow Arora.jpg|caption='''Bloodcrow Arora''', Archmage of Winter|align=left|width=250}}
A spry young thing comes to Anvil. Despite the blazing mortal sun, they are wrapped in many layers of tattered rags and greasy furs. When they skip lightly into the [[Civil Service|civil service]] tent, those present are struck by the age in their eyes. Then they smile, and it is polite, disarming, and threatening all at once.

Still, what the [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] has to say is simple enough, or so it would seem. [[Wise Rangara|''Augur-at-the-campfire'']] thanks Bloodcrow Arora in the kindest terms, but stories must be told in the right way, at the right time. She therefore pronounces that she will tell her stories to no more than six [[Varushka_religious_beliefs#Storytellers|storytellers]] of [[Varushka]], to be chosen by the [[Varushka_religious_beliefs|Wise Ones]] of that nation. If they are Wise of understanding and skilful in their craft, they shall prove themselves to the ''Clever Spider'' by sharing her tales with Anvil. Word-for-word is not ''the Venerable Guest's'' way, the important thing is that the right meaning is imparted to the right people.

The herald suggests interested storytellers go to the Varushkan National Assembly meeting, which they understand to be taking place at 19:00 on the Friday of the summit, in the tent of Vor'zai, and that the Varushkan Wise Ones take steps to choose the best. Also, the best storytellers may not be the best magicians. The herald drily notes that if the wizards of the Empire desire her wisdom as ardently as they appear, then ''the Pale Raven'' is confident that they can acquire sufficient [[Pauper's_Key|Pauper's Keys]].

Regardless, once the six are chosen, the Archmage of Winter should bring them to the Hall of Worlds at four in the afternoon on the Saturday of the coming summit. From there, a herald will take them to a hut in the wild woods where stories may be told. It will begin as a parley, but if that turns out to be too constraining for the telling of tales, then it might be needful to put it aside. Regardless, she promises that no harm will befall the storytellers - unless they bring some harm with them, of course.

==Many Minds Move As One (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width:225px; clear: right;">{{HoverImage|SaltAndSail001.png|Turtle_city.jpg}}</div>
* '''A representative from the City of Salt and Sail will journey to the Hall of Worlds at 10.00 in the morning on Saturday
* '''They hope to meet with the Archmage of Autumn in a formal parley
* '''Several items that the archmage suggested will be on the agenda
A few weeks before the Spring Equinox, a missive arrives at the Hub. Most of the civil servants have either experienced or observed the slightly odd feeling of being delivered a letter accompanied by nothing more than a muted flutter of wings. It is apparently an altogether different experience when the flutter of wings is more of boisterous flapping accompanied by raucous cawing, as if the missive was delivered by an unseen dire gull (albeit one significantly less murderously minded than the typical dire gull). Once the civil servants on duty had finished calming down and collecting the paperwork displaced by the things' invisible wings, they carefully read the missive, and they have made the contents public knowledge.

The missive is from ''Ptolemy, Custodian of the Infinite Rookery'', who intends to visit the Hall of Worlds in response to a plenipotentiary sent by '''Vossk''', [[Archmage of Autumn]]. Ptolemy represents the ''City of Salt and Sail''; a city of the [[Realm#Autumn|Autumn realm]] unknown to the Empire. Ptolemy proposes the following agenda:
{{CaptionedImage|file=Vossk.jpg|caption='''Vossk''', Archmage of Autumn|align=right|width=250}}
# '''Introductions''' - in which each party establishes their bona fides.
# '''Agenda''' - a <u>short</u> discussion to confirm that body parties are happy with the proposed agenda for the rest of the meeting.
# '''Winged Messengers''' - to focus on their functions and assurances.
# '''Boons for Salt and Sail''' - to explore the Empire's needs for magical assistance with fleets and navies to see if they can be profitably met by the City.
# '''Ports''' - as above, but with an emphasis on both improvement and protection.
# '''Minutes''' - a comparison of minutes taken by both parties to ensure they are in agreement.
# '''Close''' - meeting closes with a formal agreement that both parties will then depart.

The City has allocated one hour for this meeting. Both parties are to make good faith efforts to avoid a costly overrun.

Ptolemy wishes to make clear that the City would prefer to avoid price discovery at this stage, and that Ptolemy is not approved to agree initial or final terms. This is a preliminary meeting to explore what options exist for profitable exchange with a view to subsequent communication to establish heads of terms before moving to signed contracts.

One thing that must be clear from the outset is that the city will not involve itself in any matters vis-a-vis the war between the Empire and [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavea]]. Even to contemplate the possibility of discussion of this conflict might undermine the stance of strict neutrality that is a binding requirement of all heralds of the City of Salt and Sail placed on them by the one under whose auspices they travel.

==Timetable==
There are comparatively few meetings taking place during this summit. The times, the locations, and the eternals involved are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 19:00 || [[Cathan Canae]] || Summer || Parley; Archmage and up to five guests are invited to the chamber where it will take place
|-
| Saturday || 10.00 || Salt and Sail || Autumn || Parley; hosted in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday || 16.00 || [[Wise Rangara]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and up to six Varushkan storytellers invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 22:00 || [[Azoth]] || Night || Not a parley; a Shadow Souk will take place in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Sunday || 10:00 || [[Phaleron]] || Day || Not a parley; a pocket of the archives will manifest in the Hall of Worlds
|-
|}

Lay the foundations

2026-06-04T17:53:26Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* The Possible Dream */ Making sure goods are sold

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]]
<ic>
"586... 587... 588..."

Zaccai stopped to draw breath. The burning sensation in his calves was getting steadily worse. It felt like there was a hot fire in the muscle in his left leg and his right was not much better. 588 he reminded himself. It was important to keep count. Someone had told him there were meant to be seven hundred and seventy-seven steps. It wasn't finished yet, so he couldn't check, but still it was important to keep count.

He took a deep breath and then set off again. "589... 590... 591..." Every other step brought him a foot closer to the top.

He glanced over the side, and the drop made his head spin. Far below, the people looked like dots. One of them was waving at him. It looked like Ezra but it was hard to be sure. "592... 593... 594..."

The rest of his family had already been to the top ''and'' back down again. They'd be at the bottom somewhere, waiting for him. Probably cursing him for doing this. "595... 596... 597..." They'd taken the easy route, hitching a lift on the loading platform used to raise stone to the top. Like regular visitors. The way proper visitors would get to the top when it was all finished. "598... 599... 600..." Zaccai didn't care for the idea of being a proper visitor. One hundred and seventy-seven to go.

He'd passed several stonecutters on the way, carving beautiful depictions of the symbols of Ambition into the hard stone. "601... 602... 603..." They'd stared at him like he was a rampaging barbarian. What in Virtue's name was he doing? "604... 605... 606..."

As soon as he'd set eyes on it he knew what he had to do. "607... 608... 609..." He decided it was the tallest of the seven towers, but the guide said they were all going to be exactly the same height. "610... 611... 612... " They wouldn't be the same height if he was working on it. He'd make this one taller than the rest. After all, it was the most important Virtue. "613... 614... 615..."

He stopped again. He was breathing heavily, but he was determined to make it. His Ambition today was to climb all the way to the top of the tallest tower in the whole world. And nothing, not burning legs, not burning lungs, was going to stop him.
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 30%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Laying the foundations.jpg|align=left|width=2000}}</div>
===Overview===
The Highborn National Assembly have declared the completion of the Grand Inspiration of the Way to be their [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]. The judgement, raised by '''Eli of the Cenotaph''', comfortably won the support of the greater majority of the assembly - there can be no doubt about how important this is to the nation.

Despite the best efforts of all the cynics and pessimists, the greatest building project in the Empire - likely in the whole world - is almost on schedule. The original plans assumed that the work would take a minimum of three years to complete, but it could easily take longer. Barely more than two years have passed, and already slightly more than two-thirds of the thousand wains has been contributed. There was a lull in donations after the first year, but the flow of wains has never stopped - if anything, it has increased lately. There is a lot still to be done, but nobody can doubt the commitment to the Way.

The results are already stunning. Visitors to Bastion are awestruck by the sheer enormity of the structure, and it isn't even complete yet. The main focus, the seven great towers arranged around the central structure, seem to rise up to meet the clouds. One Dawnish troubadour was inspired to write that the Grand Inspiration appears to ''hold up the sky''. A little romantic perhaps, but it captures some of the awe-inspiring majesty of the structure. Even with scaffolding everywhere, it is possible to sense how sublimely beautiful it will be when it is done. Great pillars of perfect white granite, stretching to span the divide between the earth and the heavens.

There is a great deal of work still to do; a little over 281 wains of [[white granite]] are needed, and a lot of money to find to finish it. But the Grand Inspiration <u>will</u> lay the foundations necessary to inspire pilgrims across the world to visit Bastion and be truly inspired. An astonishing legacy that will endure far beyond the lives of any now living. But first, it must actually be finished. The nation of Highguard has been straining every sinew to support this Ambition for two years now, but the statement by ''Eli of the Cenotaph'' causes passions to resurge, and enthusiasm to reach new peaks. People are starting to sense what could be...
{{SOPInner|statement=The completion of the Grand Inspiration of the Way is the highest calling of the nation of Highguard. Through its completion we will lay the foundations necessary to inspire pilgrims to spread the Way across the known world. It will be the greatest tool we will leave our future lives and a legacy that will endure.|by=Eli of the Cenotaph, Highguard National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 750-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

==The Possible Dream==
* '''The Cinderpath Exchange has gained the ability to purchase additional white granite for the next year'''
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''White Granite'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>72 crowns</td><td>3 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>144 crowns</td><td>6 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>216 crowns</td><td>9 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>288 crowns</td><td>12 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>360 crowns</td><td>15 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>435 crowns</td><td>18 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>516 crowns</td><td>21 wains of white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>603 crowns</td><td>24 wains of white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
With the commitment of the founding people of the Empire reaching new peaks, there is an inevitable surge in citizens looking to help any way they can. People are already selling their [[white granite]] on the [[Cinderpath Custodian|Cinderpath Exchange]], but in chapters all over the nation people look for whatever they can find to contribute. A handful of herbs might not amount to much, but when the goods are sold and the money pooled with others, they can raise enough to buy from [[the League|League merchants]], arrange a shipment with [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] traders or order a consignment from the [[Sarcophan Delves]]. Any way at all that people can employ to obtain more white granite - and every wain earmarked for the Exchange as soon as it arrives.

The effects are immediate, with more white granite available than ever before. Prices are high and rising, but that is inevitable given how much white granite people are trying to procure. There are still costs to be paid, for shipping and to reimburse those citizens who could never afford to just donate the white granite. But citizens are doing everything they can to support the Exchange, in the belief that that is the best possible way to enable the nation to complete the Grand Inspiration.

As a result of the increased support, the Cinderpath Exchange has gained four additional ranks, allowing the Cinderpath Custodian to purchase more white granite. The effects will last for at least a year, and maybe longer with the right encouragement, provided citizens can see the benefits of their support are going to the Grand Inspiration.

==Let the Bells Ring Out==
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Approve Seven Great Bells'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Commission#Altering_an_Existing_Commission|Amend commission]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Neccessary Details:''' Amend the designs for the Grand Inspiration of the Way to incorporate seven great bells</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Reduces the cost of the Grand Inspiration of the Way by 49 white granite and increases the cost by 49 mithril.
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Adds seven enormous mithril bells to the final design of the Grand Inspiration of the Way
* Does not require any funds or consume a Senate commission
* Would add 30 crowns a season to the Virtue fund once the Grand Inspiration is complete</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:'''
* Until the end of the Spring Equinox 388YE
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Imperial Senate could vote to substitute 49 wains of mithril for 49 wains of white granite this season'''
* '''The bells will increase donations to the Virtue fund by 30 crowns a season once the Grand Inspiration is complete'''

Bells have always played a crucial role in Highborn life and they are foremost in the minds of many citizens at the moment due to the [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_16|the current pilgrimage of the hallowed bells of Virtue]] around the Empire. The centrepiece of the designs for the Grand Inspiration focus on seven great towers, one for each of the virtues, but to date there has been no planning for the bells that might be installed atop them.

If the existing designs were adapted, arrangements could be made for seven great bells to be installed, one in each tower. Each bell would be forged from seven wains of mithril, for a grand total of forty-nine wains in total. Various plans are proposed for how the effect of these new bells could be paired with the Hallowed Bells of Virtue, but nobody can agree on how to do that, so the matter is left for the Assembly to decide.

While the proposal would require mithril to complete the Grand Inspiration, the new designs would require less white granite, as the towers would then be open on all sides to allow the bells to swing freely and be heard for miles around. If the idea were adopted, then it would reduce the amount of white granite needed to complete the grand inspiration ''almost'' on a one-for-one basis.

Despite the small inrease in costs, The plan ''could '' make it easier for the Highborn to finish the work by providing an alternative way to complete the construction. Either way, the benefits would be significant, the inspirational effects of the great bells would lead to substantial donations to the Virtue fund by awestruck visitors to Bastion. As a result, the Virtue fund would receive 30 crowns a season, once the Grand Inspiration was complete.

The change would require a Senate motion to adapt the designs. That would have to be enacted this summit, before any more work is done on the Grand Inspiration, but the mithril could be provided later. Fortunately, the change to design is small so the change itself would not cost anything or need another commission.

==The Family Silver==
<div style="float:right; width: 300px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ephisis001.webp|caption=The Lady of the Counting House will trade in almost anything.|align=left|width=3000}}</div>
* '''Following inquiries, the City of Gold and Lead has agreed they will make an offer to purchase a single existing Highborn commission each season for the coming year'''
* '''This summit, the Senator for Necropolis can use the ritual Ephisis' Scale to put a single commission up for sale to discover the best offer the City will make for it'''
* '''The herald will attempt to agree a price with the senator or their proxy in the Hall of Worlds on the final day'''
* '''Any deal will need the approval of the Imperial Senate at the following summit'''

Following the [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#How_to_Succeed_in_Business_(Ephisis)|other approach]] of the [[Ephisis|City of Gold and Lead]] to buy an Imperial commission, ''Magister Joanna'' has approached the heralds of the ''Lady of the Counting House'' to ask whether City might be willing to make offers to buy one or more Highborn commissions that are no longer needed

The City has wains to spend, of course - many of which they've bought from the Empire in recent times. Selling off the family silver is not the most appealing of prospects, but could it be worth it, if it provided the wains the nation needed? It might be painful to dispose of something in this way, but the more sacrifices people are willing to make, the quicker the Grand Inspiration can be completed.

The heralds of the City of Gold and Lead confirm they could definitely make enquiries... To that end, they will provide each of the Senators of Highguard ''in turn'', with a single chit each season for the coming year; Necropolis at this summit, Reikos in Summer 388YE, Bastion in Autumn 388YE and finally Casinea in Winter 388YE.

If the chit is placed in an [[Ephisis' Scale|Ephisis box]] along with a note naming a single extant structure or other defined feature (the ''Invisible Hand'' will trade in almost anything, remember) within their territory, and what the Senator might be interested in trading for it (assumedly, [[white granite]]), then agents of the ''Hidden Prince'' will make an offer for it to the Senator or their agent in the Hall of Worlds on the final day of the summit.

The city cautions that the senator will not receive as good a deal as the one they recently offered, given that they're going to the market rather than the market coming to them. Nonetheless, the negotiation would proceed in the normal fashion so that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Price_discovery price discovery] can take place. Should an agreement be made, the City would put the sale to the Senate at the start of the following summit to see if the deal can be finalised. If it is, then expert heralds will, stone by stone, and brick by brick, disassemble the structure and transport it to the autumn realm, to be rebuilt for their buyer, exactly as it was, whoever that might be.

==The Second Age==
<div style="float:right; width: 300px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Grand Endeavours.png|caption=The art provided by '''Millward Cowley''' and '''Skywise Gralka''' has served as its own inspiration.|align=left|width=3000}}</div>
* '''Congregations can preach the coming of the Second Age of the Virtue'''
* '''Each congregation that takes the action will reduce the labour costs needed to complete the Grand Inspiration'''

It is foolish to get lost in the trees and fail to see the forest. The Grand Inspiration of the Way is not simply a grand pile of wains, but the statement that Highguard and the Empire are the centre of the faith. The indisputable founding place of [[the Way]] that undeniably marks the heirs of the First Empress as the ultimate authority on the doctrines of the Way. As it stands, the only 'rival' to that title is [[Sumaah_Republic#Timoj|Timoj]] in [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]]. [[Blood_will_thicken#A_Question_of_Scale|The completion of the Grand Inspiration]] will secure the dominant position of the Empire as the definitive source of inspiration and guidance for everyone who follows the Way.

The timing is apposite; there is something in the stars at the moment, people can ''feel'' it. A sense that history is being written, that the age is turning. If the First Age of Virtue began with the revelation of the first Empress, might not the completion of the Grand Inspiration herald the dawn of the Second Age of Virtue? A bold statement certainly, but one that seems to chime with the times.

In the coming year, congregations can take the lecture to '''Foretell the Coming of the Second Age of Virtue''', to preach the good news of the coming epoch. The more congregations that took part each season, the greater the benefits would be. The individual effects would be tiny, but a thousand raindrops can quickly turn into a flood. Virtuous citizens would make a pilgrimage to Bastion, to volunteer to help with the work of completing the Grand Inspiration, working to raise the monument to the heavens - doing their part to support the Grand Inspiration and ushering in a new era. They may not be builders, but they believe in the dream to be given form. Children, the elderly, all united by faith to add even a single brick and know they were part of this momentous occasion in the history of mortal ascension.

Any congregation that chooses to "Foretell the Coming of the Second Age of Virtue" would become part of the Way Assembly and receive votes and liao as normal, but the more congregations that take the option, the more volunteers there will be in Bastion, helping with the construction work and reducing the labour costs accordingly. A starting congregation taking the lecture will effectively contribute seven rings to the outstanding costs to build the Grand Inspiration; upgraded or enchanted resources will provide proportionately more.

==A Lasting Legacy==
* '''If the Grand Inspiration can be completed in a year, the Custodes Clavium are offering to empower the Speaker for the Highborn Assembly'''
* '''If the Senate granted permission that would enable the Speaker to arrange a white granite commission each season to build on the legacy of the Grand Inspiration'''
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Empower the Speaker'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Amend title</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Amend the title of Speaker for the Highborn Assembly to give them the power to announce a single commission or improvement for an appropriate shrine, church or inspirational location each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Allows the Speaker to announce a single commission that uses more white granite than all other resources combined each season without requiring a Senate commission</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Requirement:''' Requires the Grand Inspiration of the Way to be complete before the start of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Autumn Equinox 389YE
</td></tr>
</table></div>
The [[Recognition#Outcome|Custodes Clavium]] are a Highborn chapter in Bastion, dedicated to recording the lives of exemplars and paragons as well as those who have sat on the Throne. Their exarch is a passionate supporter of the Grand Inspiration, and is eager to see it completed. The chapter asks that the nation strive to finish the work before another year has passed, believing that only by setting themselves such a demanding target will they achieve the impossible.

If the Grand Inspiration can be completed before the beginning of the Spring Equinox 389YE, a little more than three years after it was first proposed, then it would demonstrate the towering accomplishments that are made possible when people pursue the Way. It is a demanding schedule; there is still a great deal to be done, but what harm could it do to try?

If the Empire are able to meet that Ambition within a year, then the Custodes Clavium would commit to place all the resources of their chapter at the disposal of the [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]]. The chapter are experts at the construction of shrines, churches and inspirational memorials to exemplars and paragons. In the past they have tried to support the use of [[recognition]] by the Synod, but that practice has fallen away for various reasons. Instead they propose to place their skills at the disposal of the Highborn Speaker. Who better to decide what the nation should build?

Their proposal would require the Imperial Senate to approve new legal powers for the Speaker, but with little direct cost to the Empire, that seems achievable. If that happened, then the Speaker would be able to announce a single commission for a new site, or an improvement to an extant one to make it bigger and more impressive. This construction would not require a Senate commission - the Custodes Clavium would provide all the skills needed.

==Choices==
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Prioritise the Titles'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Judgement Type: ''' [[Statement of Principle]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Assembly: ''' Highborn National Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Wording:''' A clearly written statement identifying which one of the five sets of Virtue positions should be given offices in the Grand Inspiration of the Way next</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Highguard will consider what benefits could be had by granting those positions offices in the Grand Inspiration of the Way as part of their ongoing highest calling</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the beginning of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Highborn have declared the Grand Inspiration of the Way to be their highest calling'''
* '''Over the next year there will be many decisions to make regarding the nature of the holy site and how it will be used'''
* '''The Assembly must decide which question to consider next'''
* '''For the next year, the architects will take special note of any Highborn Assembly statement of principle regarding the construction or use of the Grand Inspiration'''

Now that the Highborn Assembly have declared the Grand Inspiration of the Way to be their highest calling, the focus on the nation will remain firmly on the great commission for the year ahead. There will be fewer opportunities to attend to other matters, but if an opportunity does arise to help fund or amend the project, then it will not be overlooked.

However, now that minds are focused on the Grand Inspiration, people are already starting to post questions about best to employ this numinous wonder. Those issues are best addressed before the Grand Inspiration is complete, so the coming year is the perfect time to consider them. The commission is enormous, a huge edifice on an almost incomprehensible scale, but all the work thus far has been on the actual construction. There is still a great deal to be done on how the interiors will be laid out, to determine how people will actually ''use'' the Grand Inspiration. The architects are looking to the Highborn Assembly to provide that direction and will pay particular attention to any statement of principle in the Highborn Assembly concerning the construction or use of the Grand Inspiration.

One obvious matter is who could be housed in the Grand Inspiration of the Way and what could be done to support them. The new structure will have seven inspirational towers, with many rooms in them.... There are eight [[cardinal|cardinals]], a dozen [[virtue inquisitor|inquisitors]], seven [[gatekeeper|gatekeepers]], seven [[Current_Imperial_titles#The_Champions_of_Virtue|champions]], seven [[voice of Virtue|voices]]...

All of them would benefit from having resplendent offices in Bastion - it would increase the prestige of the title and provide other benefits that made it easier for them to carry out their appointed role. To ensure the work is not rushed, it would be best to consider each one in turn, rather than try to do them all. But the order in which they are assessed will be important. Currently the Grand Inspiration is empty - but that won't be true once rooms in the towers start being allocated. As a result, the earlier a set of titles are considered, the greater the benefits on offer are ''likely'' to be.

Now that the Highborn have declared the Grand Inspiration to be their highest calling, the work is just beginning.

==Let the Call Ring Out==
* '''The Virtue Assemblies and the three remaining National Assemblies have at least two more seasons and maybe longer to decide their highest calling'''
* '''Provided one assembly names their highest calling each season, then the opportunity will not expire'''

Despite the initial findings of the [[Civil Service|civil service]], there is no reduction on fervour from priests and layfolk of the Empire to find the true calling of their assemblies. People are eager to be engaged, but pleased that their assembly has demonstrated their great Wisdom by refusing to rush such a weighty decision.

As such, people are happy to remain patient, provided it is clear the matter has not simply been forgotten. As long as at least one highest calling is passed each season, the opportunity to raise any of the remaining highest callings will still be available at the following event.

Chain and anchor

2026-05-31T19:38:15Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* The Business of Diplomacy */ Too many r's

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>"I'm a little surprised to see so few Highborn here."

Outside the rat run was well underway. Even after five years there were not many children living at the estate, but their numbers were bolstered by a small number of Freeborn and League youths. Their parents followed the scampering children, just close enough to be safe but far enough away as to give their offspring a feeling of independence. The ''burgomeester'' himself was out there, in sack cloth and ashes wearing a beautiful rat face purchased at great expense from the finest mask-maker in Sarvos. The streets were alive with laughter and shouts of mock outrage as one pillar of the community or another was cornered and forced to hand over candied fruit or dark chocolate.

"Really?" Maria had her back to the crowds, leaning against the balcony railing, eating sweet almonds. "Sometimes I think the Sarcophan go out of their way to bait Highguard. I know its probably not intentional - they'd never want to alienate anyone they think they could sell things to - but even in comparison to Caricomare, the estates are an absolute ''hive'' of shameless behaviour."

"It's one of the reasons I like them," replied Prince Luija with an impish smile. Maria rolled her eyes.

"I heard a very bad joke the other day from one of the Freeborn peddlers..." She began.

"I think I know the one you mean." Luija shook her head. "I didn't think it was very funny to be honest."

"Nor did the ''burgomeester''. He was very civil about it, as he always is, but he left that fellow feeling about three inches tall all while smiling and buying some glasswork from him. It was a master class."

Luija chuckled, then looked thoughtful. "You know this might be a good thing, actually. Highguard has politely told the Vandersaar that they're not happy. The Delves will have to reconsider their entire approach to Highguard if they want to do business with them -"

"Which they do of course," interjected Maria.

"Which they do of course," Luija agreed. "They'll take a little time to regroup, find a better approach. Perhaps make an effort to downplay this entire 'den of licentiousness' thing. Maybe even adjust to how the Empire operates instead of constantly pushing us to do things their way."

Maria nodded licking powdered sugar off her fingertips.

"But let's hope they don't go ''too'' far the other way, eh?" she said, reaching for a delicious looking apricot pastry. "It's very convenient having a 'den of licentiousness' practically on the doorstep, as it were."

Prince Luija made a noncommital noise, sipping her chocolate-laced coffee. Below, a trio of Freeborn fire-dancers performed to the enthusiastic applause and cheers of a largely Sarcophan audience, who rained rings and festival trinkets into the upturned hats placed strategically around their feet.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Anchor chain (cable).jpg|caption=The merchants of the Sarcophan Delves are enthusiastic trade partners with the Empire, always seeking new opportunities to profit from their relationship.|align=left|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''The Sarcophan Delves remain friendly to the Empire and enthusiastic about continued Imperial trade'''
The merchant-princes of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - the ''bedelaar huisbaas'' - strive for neutrality. They are enthusiastic about trade with the Empire, but their neutrality is precious to them. They hold it a mark of pride that they will deal with anyone who has goods, services, or money. While they have given up the practice of slavery without regret, they refuse to pick a side between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the Freedom Accord. Their primary goal is to ensure the ports of the world remain open to their ships, ideally with [[Tariffs#Free_Trade|free trade]] agreements that allow their merchants to operate without onerous [[tariffs]]. They have recently declared the ''Pax Sarcophan'' - a commitment to combat piracy and ensure that independent traders are free to sail [[the seven seas]] regardless of the politics of the great powers. Perhaps as part of this increased involvement in political affairs, they have also extended their protection to the independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] in [[Mareave]], apparently to help guarantee its neutrality.

The Sarcophan ambassador to the Empire is ''Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike'', of the Tower of Crows. She reports to the beggar-landlords of Sarcophan, and is known to be a wily and subtle diplomat. No stranger to the murkier waters of espionage and intelligence-gathering, she constantly seeks opportunities to expand the influence of the Sarcophan mercantile Empire across the Known World. She has no particular loyalty to any one faction; her main concern appears to be the prosperity of the nation as a whole.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sarcophan Delves]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Sarcophan|Sarcophan]], [[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Betovering|Betovering]], and (temporarily) [[All_the_night-tide#Jakhalsmarkt|Jakhalsmarkt]].|ambassador= Dino i Riqueza of [[the Brass Coast]]}}

==The Business of Diplomacy==
* '''The House of the Buildelrat and the deBruin family are both happy to accept that their offers are not of interest to the Empire
* '''Access to the Jakhalsmarkt will continue until the start of the Autumn Equinox 388YE after which further investment may be required
* '''The Tower of the Raven has advised Sarcophan travellers to be cognisant of the very different legal position of the Empire compared to the Delves they are used to
As always, there are topics of diplomatic nature to discuss. The [[Founders of the Delves#The Buidelrat|Buildelrat]] offer thanks to the Ambassador for pursuing the matter of access to the [[All_the_night-tide#Moeraskriden|Moeraskriden]], and for being candid in their response. Being honest allows the Buidelrat to look elsewhere, and avoid wasting energy on something Imperial traders aren't interested in. Likewise the [[Prime_Factor_of_the_deBruin_Docks#deBruin_Docks|deBruin]] family respond philosophically when informed that the Empire will not [[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Children_of_Wrecks|need their services]] in the fight against the Children of Wrecks. There is rarely a shortage of opportunity for veteran marines. The Ambassador may still present a proposal on behalf of the Empire if they change their mind in the future. Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike expands a little. The Sarcophan are first and foremost ''businessfolk''. They respond much better to being told there is no interest than to being "strung along" - even if the reasons for being ambiguous are well meaning. If an offer isn't of interest, being honest about that from the start prevents a lot of frustration.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorSarcophanDelves.jpg|caption='''Dino i Riqueza''', Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves|align=right|width=300}}</div>
In contrast to the Moeraskriden situation, significant numbers of Imperial traders continue to be drawn to the [[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Jackals,_Ports,_and_Buidelrats|Jakhalsmarkt]]. ''Annabel de Gouden'' of the [[Founders of the Delves#The Jackal|House of the Jackal]], who secured Imperial access to the jewellers' port, continues to sponsor the Empire's captains in visiting the markets. She has confirmed that access to Jakhalsmarkt under current conditions will continue until the start of the Autumn Equinox 388YE. She will then review whether it is still profitable to continue and whether she will need to request investment from the Empire to maintain the trade in [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] ''star jewels'' that appear to be such a draw.

Legal matters are of a greater concern. The Empire's recent laws against cannibalism have caused some concern, especially with regard to the funerary rites of ''Hester van de Moerassen''. Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike thanks the Ambassador for their handling of the affair and reassures them that going forward her office will strongly discourage anyone thinking of doing anything similar. Frankly, there is no reason for Sarcophan folk to be having their funerals in a nation that has made their practices illegal. If they are ''that'' dedicated to the idea, they can do so in the Alivetti estates. More worrying is the report that Hester van de Moerassen was apparently murdered, and Annike has passed these allegations on to the relevant parties.

Ambassador Dino's patience speaks well of them, and she absolutely concurs with his sentiment that "''by being flippant about local laws they are putting much more at risk for all of us who prize good trading relations''.". The Tower of the Ravens will make more of an effort to impress on Sarcophan looking to trade with or visit the Empire that they must be cognizant of Imperial law when they are outside the Alivetti estates.

==Our Revels Are Ended==
* '''The grand week-long party at the Alivetti estate has gone off without a hitch
* '''Highguard discouraged members of its nation from attending
The [[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Prosperity_and_Opportunity|five year celebration]] at the [[Sarvos#Sarcophan_Enclave|Alvietti estate]] has concluded with no lingering ill effects beyond perhaps some rueful memories and some historic hangovers. ''Burgemeester Vandersaar'' has declared it a rousing success, despite the fact that the [[Highguard|Highborn]] declined to attend. Guided by the [[statement of principle]] raised by '''Exarch Aemon''' of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]] and [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements|endorsed]] by the Highborn assembly, there were few visitors to the week-long festivities from the sombre nation. Nobody talks about it openly, but this snub has sent a message to the Alivetti Estate that while Highguard might tolerate them, they do not welcome further engagement. For at least the next year there will be no more approaches to Highguard from the Delves. This doesn't represent anger at the Highborn - quite the contrary. Again, being direct and unambiguous helps everyone make better business decisions.
===Participation : Alvietti Celebration===
* '''Anyone could have attended the celebration at the Alvietti estates
* '''Freeborn and League character, especially from Tassato, Sarvos, and Madruga, received additional benefits
Citizens from all over [[the League]] and [[the Brass Coast]] attended the celebrations openly and in reasonable numbers. [[Business]] owners from these nations were able to choose a free [[Business#Diversification|diversification]] option as a result of small but lucrative deals made during the revelry. Every business owner in [[Sarvos]], [[Tassato]], and [[Madruga]] receives two doses of random consumables acquired from the Estates. These either represent "treats" picked up during the party or goods acquired from people who attended after the celebration. Most are harmless, but there is a chance some are not legal in the Empire. The magistrates, already a little stretched, will find it almost impossible to prevent Imperial citizens bringing illegal goods out of Alivetti intentionally or accidentally. If your character wouldn't have had anything to do with the celebration, you can hand these consumables back to GOD when you collect your pack.

While only League and Freeborn characters directly benefit in a measurable way from participating in the celebrations, any Imperial citizen is welcome to have attended (including Highborn characters). Details of the kinds of events that took place are found in last seasons '''[[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Prosperity_and_Opportunity|A wild night and a new road]]''' wind of fortune. The theme is one of celebration, both of the enclave itself and of Sarcophan traditions and culture.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}
==Apothecary Guilds==
* '''The enthusiasm for the Apothecarys Guild from the Kruidenkenner has cooled significantly
* '''All Kruidenkenner offers except that presented in the ''The Circle Game'' wind of fortune have been withdrawn
* '''The current Apothecaries' Guild Leader is Esmé i Estrico i Erigo'''
The Sarcophan Delves pride themselves on their mastery of herblore, especially when it comes to the [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecary arts]]. Foremost among the Delves' practitioners are the wealthy and influential ''Kruidenkenner'', a powerful guild that exists outside the [[Founders_of_the_Delves|thirteen houses]] in a manner analogous to an [[Imperial sodality]]. Since the formation of the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]], the Kruidenkenner have [[Can%27t_give_everything_away#The_Apothecaries_Guild|sought closer ties]] with their Imperial peers. Unfortunately, they are used to working within a much looser legal system than that of the Empire, and have apparently been frustrated by their efforts to build ties with the sodality. Bedelaar Husiaas Annike has done her best to manage the expectations of the guild, but with limited success. She also acknowledges the efforts of Ambassador Dino and their staff - especially their proxy '''Estrella''' - in doing the same in the Empire.

During the Winter Solstice the Senate [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Manifesto_of_the_Apothecaries_Guild_II|amended the manifesto]] of the Guild to make it clear that their powers and responsibilities ''only'' extend to Imperial citizens. This seems to end any possibility of cooperation between the Kruidenkenner and the Sodality.

For now, they have withdrawn all offers related to sharing herb lore with the Kruidenkenner, trading such lore to the Empire, or interfering with Imperial titles. This includes the offer intended to encourage the Senate to amend the appointment methods of the [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] and [[Master of the Root and Stem]]. The offer to [[The_circle_game#Sarcophan_and_the_Kruidenkenner|amend the trade of herbs]] for the Kruidenkenner Trademaster and the Master of the Root and Stem remain on the table, however. The reason for this, Annike explains, is that these deals were made with a [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|member of the Imperial civil service]], specifically [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]], so the Kruidenkenner are not worried that it might run afoul of the Senate or the Constitution or the law. Annike cautions that the offers will expire at the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE - the markets will have shifted enough that the Kruidenkenner would need to rethink them - but there is no ''animosity'' here. There's no question that the Kruidenkenner will continue to fulfill all their current obligations to the Empire. The leadership of the Guild are still interested in building bridges with the Imperial sodality; they're simply not sure how best to go about it given the (to them) convoluted nature of Imperial law and tradition.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Building Bridges'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Appraisal]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limits:'''
* The appraisal must specify that it relates to cooperation between the Kruidenkenner and the Imperial Apothecaries Guild
* Any opportunities will be aimed at the Imperial sodality rather than the Empire as a whole
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* As with any appraisal, presents opportunities to increase cooperation between the Sarcophan Kruidenkenner Guild and the Imperial Apothecaries Guild Imperial sodality
* The Senate will need to specify which prognosticator will undertake the appraisal as normal
</td></tr>
</table></div>
As such, Annike passes along a proposal from the Kruidenkenner. There are plenty of experienced members of the Guild in the Empire already, trading and staffing the [[Kruidenkenner_Trademaster#The_Kruidenkenner_Magazijn|Kruidenkenner Magazijn]] at [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]]. They have more experience of dealing with Imperial sensibilities, and with the civil service. They suggest that the best way to cement ties between the Sarcophan Guild and their Imperial peers would be for the Senate to commission an [[appraisal]] to explore cooperation between the Kruidenkenner and the Imperial Apothecaries Guild. The civil service do not believe this would take any more time than a traditional appraisal - there's no need to travel to the Delves for a start - and would not have any additional costs. The advantage over a traditional appraisal is that the Kruidenkenner would be directly involved in developing opportunities, removing the need for any further diplomatic discussion, and with the possibility that accepting any or all of the proposals could be done via a [[Ambassador#Treaty|treaty]] (there'd be no doubt as to whether the agreements were the result of a diplomatic negotiation).

==A Highborn Fashion==
* '''Money enjoyed by Highborn businesses and mines due to the trade in stonework and stone has ended
* '''The Cathedral of the Way in the Sarcophan Delves has lost all but one rank of a single ministry
* '''Sarcophan pilgrims look elsewhere for spiritual guidance
For the last year, there has been a demand for Highborn stone and stonework in the Sarcophan Delves. The [[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#The_Monument_Trade|monument trade]] continues, but the high demand has more-or-less run its course as of the dawn of the Spring Equinox. The high profits enjoyed by Highborn [[business|businesses]] and [[mine|mines]] have ended. It also appears that ''Senna van Ijzer'' - the art dealer who first negotiated the arrangement on behalf of the Sarcophan sect known as the Collectors - has been discouraged from pursuing any further links. There is concern in the Delves that after the Highborn statement about the anniversary of the Alvietti estate, it might be best to avoid further trade arrangements for the time being

The prosperity of Highguard has come at the cost of the respect the Sarcophan people had for the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Cathedral_of_the_Navigators|Cathedral of the Navigators]]. As the Spring Equinox dawns, the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Low Ministry|Low Ministry]] has been lost, and the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Merchant_Ministry|merchant ministry]] has been reduced to a single rank of production. This represents a significant loss of influence for the cathedral, the [[Bishop of the Navigators]], and the Imperial version of the Way in the Sarcophan Delves.

Reports from over the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Teeth|Sea of Teeth]] indicate that the [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] Präster - who have their own grand temple in the of the Sumaah Republic temple there has not been shy about capitalising on this situation. They continue to preach that the Way is not a "trapping" or a "style" that can be draped over the false religion of the Sarcophan Delves; that Prosperity is not solely about wealth; and Pride should never be sacrificed in pursuit of profit. Many Sarcophan pilgrims of the Way who looked to the Cathedral and its priests for guidance now look elsewhere; either to Sumaah or inwardly to their own traditions and practices. The latter in particular cannot help but lead to more divergence from both of the larger approaches to the faith.

The Cathedral of the Navigators is still a beautiful and breathtaking structure, but its burgeoning congregation of the faithful is much reduced with visitors more likely to be artists or sight-seers with no interest in the Way. Something of a white elephant - or a white sepulchre perhaps

===The Virtue of Art===
* '''A Sarcophan entrepreneur is prepared to purchase the Cathedral of the Navigators from the Senate'''
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Cathedral Sale'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Abrogation|Abrogate Title]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Spring Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Abrogates the title of Bishop of the Navigators
* Provided the motion includes wording to that effect it also sells the Cathedral of the Navigators building to Marieke of the House of the Maggot
* Marieke will provide the Imperial treasury with 140 Thrones if the building is sold
</td></tr>
</table></div>

Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike clearly finds the matter a little disappointing, but she still passes along an offer made by one of the wealthier members of the [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Maggot|House of the Maggot]]. ''Marieke'' is a [[draughir]] who prides herself on her exquisite taste, and since retiring as the representative of her house to the Beggar's Banquet she has taken on the mantle of a patron of the arts. Viewing the declining attendance of the Cathedral of the Navigators as an opportunity, she is prepared to pay 140 Thrones to the Imperial Senate if they are prepared to sell the building to her. Her intent is apparently to turn it into a massive art gallery, museum, and auction hall dealing in artworks and antiques. Given how much the Cathedral [[Construct Cathedral of the Navigators#Cost|cost to build]], this would represent only a fraction of what was invested. Marieke wants a decision now however; the opportunity is only available at the Spring Equinox.

The civil service advise that if the Senate wishes to take advantage of this opportunity they could do so by [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Abrogation|abrogating]] the title of [[Bishop of the Navigators]] and specifying in the [[senate motion]] that the Cathedral itself is being sold to the House of the Maggot. The money will be provided following the Spring Equinox.

The treaty that [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Sarcophan_Delves_Autumn_383YE|established the Cathedral]] also established the Alivetti estates, but nothing in the treaty however that suggests that the concedence is conditional on the Cathedral continuing to stand; from the point of view of both Imperial and Sarcophan law (such as it is) the Senate is free to sell the land the Delves ceded to them if they wish. In the Delves at least, this will be seen as the maturing of an Imperial investment, with no implications for the enclave in Sarvos.
{{Sarcophan Links}}

My soul at liberty

2026-04-22T19:55:33Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Attending the Pact */ Adding the W to Who

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Sumaah]] [[Category:Commonwealth]][[Category:Axos]]
<ic>
The strange bird-faced creature whistled to itself as it approached the desk. Not bird-song, not exactly - the tune was something more human, something more familiar. It was catchy, uplifting in a way. It made Jorgen smile. Days like this were great, much better than when an emissary of one of the Bound turned up or some horror sent by Cornwalker. He needed more days like this.

"Welcome to Anvil, may I help you?" With a normal visitor he would have added the honorific "citizen", but clearly this was no citizen of the Empire. A denizen of the realms - a servant of the Speaker in Dreams he was sure of it. He remembered studying these creatures for his civil service exam.

The creature stopped, almost as if surprised that he had spoken to it. If it had a mouth it probably would have been grinning at him, the effect wasn't quite the same with a beak.

"Salutations. Remonstrations. Ex-pec-tations" It sounded the first few syllables of the last word out, as if tasting the words.

"Welcome to Anvil" Jorgen repeated, unsure of what else to say in the circumstance. The bird-faced creature trilled at him and then carried on as if everything made perfect sense.

"Interlocution. Contribution. Sub-sti-tution."

Jorgen had met Day heralds a bit like this before. All pretentious and constantly spouting synonyms and homonyms as if it made them sound clever. This was something different. Lashonar's strange little bird creature talked as if enjoyed the taste of the words it was saying. As if each syllable were a delicious morsel.

"Presentation. Documentation. Val-e-dation" the creature was dancing round the room, and despite everything its upbeat spirit was infectious. It stopped, produce a letter from it's tattered robes - and placed it carefully on the desk in front of him. He glanced down. Never take your eyes off them they'd taught him, but it seemed safe enough given the circumstances. There was a name on the outside of the letter, it was addressed to the Song of Liberty. He wasn't sure he knew who that was.

Before he could ask for more the bird-faced herald was already dancing towards the door. It exited the room singing the same song it had entered to and this time he couldn't help but join in. ''A deep abiding oath... I love it here around this fire...'' He faltered slightly, unsure of what came next. The bird was gone and the song with it.

Jorgen glanced down - there was a name on the envelope now, he was ''sure'' had not been there a moment ago. Jarrigk Silktongue, the Song of Liberty.
</ic>
==Overview==
As is their right, the tiny nation of Axos has taken the unusual step of calling a meeting of the Liberty Pact. They invited every member of the Pact to submit proposals for amendments to the Pact; the Empire chose not to submit anything, but the other nations have seized the opportunity to advance their own agendas.

To facilitate the meeting, and avoid the dangers of Sumaah and the Commonwealth needing to commit to a dangerous journey when both nations are at war, the eternal Lashonar has agreed to provide the [[Lashonar#Caucus_Forum|Caucus Forum]] to permit delegates to talk to each other without concern for the distances. That will present a few challenges of its own of course, but presumably nothing that can't be overcome.

==Attending the Pact==
* '''The meeting of the Liberty Pact will take place at 19.00 on Saturday in the Caucus Forum
* '''The Voice of Liberty and their aide will be collected from the Hall of Worlds by a herald of Lashonar
The [[Voice of Liberty]] '''Jarrigk Silktongue''' or a representative they appoint, is expected to attend the meeting on behalf of the Empire. Each of the other signatories will send their own Voice, or a proxy thereof. Each emissary is allowed to bring a single aide with them to offer support, but the aides are not expected to directly participate in the discussion. This restriction might prove harder to enforce than the Axou perhaps realised when they chose to use the Caucus Forum given that its patron Lashonar encourages free communication. Regardless of how it plays out, the only Imperial citizen who will get a vote on whether to amend the pact or not is the Voice of Liberty.

As the meeting is taking place in the Caucus Forum, the Voice of Liberty and their aide will be collected from the Hall of Worlds by a herald of Lashonar at TBC. Provision will need to be made to allow access for anyone who is not a [[Magical skills#magician|magician]] - a [[Pauper's Key]] or [[The Ambassadorial Gatekeeper]] for example.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=MagistrateKarkovich.jpg|title=Stanislav Karkovich, Chief Magistrate|caption=Stanislav Karkovich, Chief Magistrate|width=175}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=116_103_7872813_56749560_6.png|title=Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra, Chief Magistrate|caption=Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra, Chief Magistrate|width=175}}</div>
===The Magpie in the Room===
* '''The meeting of the Liberty Pact will take place in the Caucus Forum, a space for communication provided by Lashonar'''
* '''The eternal Lashonar has been placed under enmity by the Conclave'''
* '''Care must be taken to avoid engaging in treason when communicating with an eternal under enmity'''
The Caucus Forum is a boon offered by Lashonar - a special chamber that can be accessed from many different locations as the [[eternal]] desires. When the Axou called the Liberty Pact together there was no issue with the Empire attending a meeting in the Forum - indeed it has been used repeatedly by Imperial citizens over the years. Last season however the [[Conclave]] supported a [[Declaration]] of [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] against Lashonar [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Lashonar,_Enmity|raised]] by the [[Archmage of Night]] '''Bella Vicente d’Apulian'''. In the words of the Archmage, "''the Unstoppable Gob has to be stopped from spilling our secrets to our foes''."

This presents a conundrum. The Empire believes Lashonar spills secrets to the Empire's foes, and yet a sensitive meeting to discuss the business of the Liberty Pact alliance is taking place under his roof, facilitated by its [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. The [[Civil_Service#Imperial_Magistracy|magistrates]] remind citizens that it is not a crime to speak to an eternal or herald that is placed under enmity - provided one is not a [[Sorcery#Sorcery|sorcerer]] of course - but that ''Trading or dealing with an eternal under enmity is illegal and will be investigated as treason.'' Any Imperial citizens who visit the Caucus Forum must be mindful that they are dealing with an enemy of the Empire. They are asked to speak to one of the chief magistrates - either ''Stanislav Karkovich'' or ''Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra'' - before attending the meeting. It has been suggested that the [[Celestial Arch]] consider sending an observer along to such a meeting to ensure that everyone knows what they need to do, or not do, while dealing with Lashonar in its own space.

Likewise, the chief magistrates would like to speak with the Voice of Liberty and their aide after the meeting; there's no requirement for them to disclose the details of the meeting and it is merely an informal chat to reassure everyone that there are no grounds for pursuing an investigation of treason. Again, representation from the Celestial Arch would be ideal, as they are the foremost experts on the complex diplomatic problems of dealing with eternals.

==Agenda==
* '''The Axou have prepared an agenda made up of the amendments proposed by each member of the pact
In line with the Liberty Pact, "''Each member of the Pact will ensure that they have provided information on any issues they plan to raise and provide the wording of any vote they wish the pact to discuss in advance of the meeting''." The [[Commonwealth]], [[Sumaah Republic]], and [[Axos]] have all presented amendments to the Pact they wish to debate and then vote on. As the chair of the meeting, and the signatory that called it, the Axou have arranged the agenda.

The Liberty Pact is not the Senate; as such it is possible for the members to discuss and alter the wording of an amendment during their debate. Only once the matter is voted on is the wording finalised, and nailed down.

===Centring the Way (Sumaah)===
* '''Sumaah seeks to centre the Liberty Pact on the Way of Virtue'''

<quote by="Sumaah">
It is impossible for true liberty to be achieved without the guidance of the Way. Only the Way truly recognises the need for individuals to be free to pursue their ambitions, and only the Way appreciates the true nature of prosperity and the importance of labour receiving just rewards. As such, all signatories to the Liberty Pact will welcome missionaries versed in the Way to spread the true faith and to help people understand the real meaning and importance of destroying the institution of slavery.</quote>

It is notable that the Axou have placed this point first on the agenda. This amendment is likely to be bitterly opposed by [[Axos]] and the [[Commonwealth]]. The former view the Way as an abomination that serves the wicked Creator, while the latter are very careful not to prioritise other religions over the Common Good. One civil servant notes wryly that the Commonwealth desire to remove the Axou from the Pact may prove short-sighted given they would be their staunch allies in resisting this kind of amendment being forced on them by their two virtuous peers.

===Amend Trade Requirements (Axos)===
* '''Axos seeks to change the requirement for free trade with other members of the Pact to a prohibition on embargo'''

<quote by="Axos">The requirement that each signatory to the Liberty Pact enforce free trade with the other signatories should be replaced with a prohibition on embargos between members of the pact. Members of the Pact should trade with each other, but should be free to set their tariffs to best support themselves.</quote>

The [[Voice_of_Liberty#Summer_384YE_Amendments|Summer 384YE]] amendment requires all signatories to the Pact to practice [[Tariffs#Free_Trad|free trade]] with every other member. The Axou are clearly finding this rule onerous - being unable to place [[tariffs]] on trade from the Empire, Sumaah, and the Commonwealth appears to be at risk of overwhelming their vastly smaller economy.

They want to flip the clause, so that instead of requiring free trade, the Pact simply prohibits members from embargoing each other. That would give individual nations the ability to permit free trade or place tariffs as they chose. It is not clear that this will work as well as Axos seems to hope - left to their own devices the Sumaah in particular are likely to demand significant tariffs on any Axou trade coming to them. It is possible that they do not believe they have anything to lose.

===Remove Jarmish Embargo (Axos)===
* '''Axos want to remove the embargo on trade with Jarm'''
<quote by="Axos">The Summer 384 Amendments relating to embargo and free trade should be struck down. The Liberty Pact already says that signatory nations will place economic or trade sanctions of their own choosing on nations defined as slaving nations above.</quote>

The clause embargo trade with the Principalities of Jarm is a significant problem for Axos. They've recently been caught dealing with Jarm in a way that technically violates the Pact, but there's no indication they're trying to apply this retroactively. More likely, they are looking to resume their dealings with the Jarmish wizards if they can.

Their argument is that the Pact should not dictate what level of sanction is applied to any other nation, as long as sanctions are applied. They've also been pretty clear they think the proscription against Jarm is nothing less than the Commonwealth trying to use the Liberty Pact to pursue their own political goals and nothing to do with slavery.

The Commonwealth will fiercely contest any attempt to remove the embargo against the Principalities from the Pact; any argument to get them to endorse such a thing will need to be particularly compelling. It's hard to predict how Sumaah might respond to this and a lot will depend on how their High House of Prosperity is feeling about an outside body dictating their tariffs.

===Condemnation of Large Scale Disasters (Axos)===
* '''Axos want the Pact to expel any member who creates a large scale magical disaster'''

<quote by=Axos>Members of the Liberty Pact will condemn and eject any member found responsible for creating a large scale magical disaster such as the Cold Sun incursion into Lantir.</quote>

This amendment has been placed before the Commonwealth amendment that deals with a similar matter. It has some flaws, mostly in that it doesn't lay out how a member nation might be "found responsible" for creating a large scale magical disaster, nor explain what constitutes "large" in the eyes of the Axos magicians. The Commonwealth would presumably be in favour of this - but a lot will depend on whether they were in fact responsible for the Cold Sun invasion as some rumours suggest. Sumaah is likely to be in favour - they are quite leery of eternal involvement on a large scale.

The [[Civil Service|civil service]] have assessed this wording and are concerned that it is very vague. They do not expect the amendment to pass given the lack of concrete definition, but it might be upheld as a matter of principle rather than a full amendment. They also caution that given [[Death_leaves_us_homesick#Waking_the_Vallorn|recent diplomatic developments]] between Axos and the Empire this is ''likely'' not about Cold Sun at all, but about the threat of the Empire unleashing the vallorn.

===Cold Sun (Commonwealth)===
* '''The Commonwealth calls for Pact members to aid each other against the Cold Sun'''

<quote by=Commonwealth>The Cold Sun represents annihilation. This is an evil on par with that of slavery; it denies living individuals their liberty in a profound way. Members of the Liberty Pact will aid each other in opposing it wherever it makes incursion into the mortal realm.</quote>

The Commonwealth are asking for aid from their fellow pact members to resist the [[Cold war#incursion]] of [[Cold Sun]] in [[A_force_to_be_reckoned_with#The_Lantir_Problem|Lantir]]. There is some room for amendment to their wording - the initial proposal was apparently that the eternals and their servants are a threat to mortal liberty and should be resisted wherever and whenever they stage an incursion into the mortal world. This amendment is an attempt by the Commonwealth to gain allies for its personal struggle with Cold Sun, using the veneer of slavery to justify its inclusion in the Liberty Pact.

While this would benefit the Commonwealth, it would require every member to take reasonable efforts to help anyone else invaded by Cold Sun. Yet the wording is quite vague as to what that aid would involve, and as such it is likely that both Axos and the Sumaah will be cautious about accepting it without clearer expectations being laid out.

===Signatory Status (Commonwealth)===
* '''Commonwealth again seeks to eject Axos from the Liberty Pact'''

<quote by=Commonwealth>The true power of the Liberty Pact is international, and only those nations that wield power on the world stage can truly shoulder that burden. There are any number of smaller nations whose bravery in rejecting slavery should be recognised. As such we propose the creation of two degrees of membership. Members of the Pact will have full rights and voting ability. Signatories will be protected by the Liberty Pact, and have the rights due all members, but will not be permitted to raise amendments, vote, or attend the formal meetings of the Pact.</quote>

The Commonwealth has been unhappy about the involvement of Axos in the Liberty Pact for some time. They have also been of the opinion that it is ''only'' the Great Powers - the Empire, Sumaah, and themselves - who are in a credible position to defeat slavery once and for all. If their amendment passes, all smaller nations will effectively be represented by the great power into whose sphere of influence they fall. Protected and recognised as "signatory" to the pact but without any legal powers to amend it.

Axos will clearly oppose this, given it is an attempt to remove them from being full members of the pact (see below). The Sumaah are likely to be in favour of it, at least initially, but it's not clear how strongly they will support it. The Commonwealth brought up a very similar amendment last time the Pact met and it was rejected. It seems they are not content to let the issue lie.

===Status of Axos (Commonwealth)===
* '''The Commonwealth wish to confirm Axos status as a signatory to the Pact rather than a voting member of it'''

<quote by=Commonwealth>The Liberty Pact recognised the courage of Axos in abandoning the cruel practice of slavery, and thanks them for their efforts so far. However they are in no position to bring the forces to bear needed to defeat slavery and so they should be recognised as a signatory to the pact, not a full member.</quote>

Obviously this amendment is reliant on the previous amendment related to signatory status passing. If the previous amendment does not pass, then this proposal will be defunct.

==After the Debate==
Once the debate and vote is completed the wording of any amendments will be recorded and a copy given to each of the Voices of Liberty. It is then the [[Voice of Liberty#Responsibilities|responsibility]] of the Voice to find a [[Senator]] prepared to present the [[Voice_of_Liberty#Amendment|amendments]] for consideration by the Senate. The [[Senate motion]] must contain the exact wording of any amendment, and is subject to [[Scrutiny]] like any other motion. If it is passed, the amendments become part of Imperial law as normal. If the motion is not passed for whatever reason, then additional meetings of the Liberty Pact will be needed.

With that in mind the Chief Magistrates suggest that as well as discussing Lashonar it might be worth the Voice of Liberty having a chat with them about the amendments proposed by the three other members of the Pact. There are some that look problematic, on which they may be able to offer Imperial legal advice.

It is also important to remember that while the Liberty Pact has the power to determine its own strictures and tenets, the other three nations likewise have bodies of state that will be required to ratify those amendments. The House of the People, the Commonwealth Generals, or the Grand Ilarchs Council all have the power to refuse an amendment to the Liberty Pact. This is most likely to happen if an amendment is pushed through that seriously damages their interests in some fashion. At the point any signatory nation does not agree to enact an amendment to the pact, it will inevitably trigger a crisis that will need to be resolved before the Liberty Pact can go forward. Either an acceptable wording will need to be found, the amendment will need to be struck down, or the conflicted nation will need to leave the Pact.
==Further Reading==
* [[Liberty Pact]]

Quietude

2026-04-22T15:10:38Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Crass Accusations */ Finished a sentence based on supposition, please check

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"Hup" exclaimed Hywel as he boosted Toric into the tree. The Peytaht Orc gripped the high branch that was now just in reach and used it to haul himself up. As soon as he pulled himself on top of the perch, he stood up and leapt to grab the next branch up. It was an impressive feat - Hywel had spent half a lifetime walking the trods through the forests of the Empire, but he was still struck by the way Toric could shoot up a tree like a startled squirrel.

Sometimes his friend would climb a tree just for the fun of it. Not today though - today they were after top fruit. Fresh apples were hard to get. If you were content with windfall, you could pick them a few off the ground, but if you wanted to gather the best apples that would keep for days, you had to go up the tree and get them.

Ten minutes later and Toric's basket was being lowered down to him, three quarter full with apples. He quickly untied it from the hawser and replaced it with an empty one. In less than an hour all four baskets were almost full and he was shouting to Toric to come back down. A good day's haul and there was still time to relax and enjoy a quick meal before they headed back.

He opened his pack, pulled out a thick blanket and spread it out. Fortunately the ground was dry, so it was more for comfort than anything. That and something to spread their dinner on. He returned to his pack and brought out a fresh baked loaf, a wheel of cheese, and a jar of pickle. He popped the lid off the jar to release the heady aroma before he placed it on the makeshift table.

"That smells good!" Toric's voice startled him as he dropped from the bottom branch with a heady thud.

Hywel extended his hand towards the hastily arranged meal. "Well - fair words won't bury grudges as the Marchers like to say."

He laughed as he said it, but Toric looked serious for a moment. "Do they?" he asked. Then before his friend could respond he pressed on. "I thought it was 'Fair words only buy rotten apples'. That's what Dour Allan told me."

"Nah - it's definitely grudges." Hywel shook his head. "No-one buries rotten apples anyway. Come on, lets eat."
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofTheBarrens.png|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
[[The Barrens]] is quieter than it has been in living memory. Not silent, not yet. [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[noble house|nobles]] and [[Yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]] fan out across the [[territory]] in search of [[glory]] and they make plenty of noise. There are monsters in [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|the Bleaks]] and miners in [[The Barrens#The Fangs|the Fangs]] and they make plenty of noise. This season, there is good news from the Barrens, and there is bad news from the Barrens, and both make plenty of noise.

But it is quieter. The stain of [[Druj]] rule is ebbing away. A silent scream is slowly fading. Things are not completely still. Conflict is not yet a stranger to the Barrens. But it is quieter.

There are three remaining septs of orcs in the Barrens; the [[Great Forest Orcs]] in [[The_Barrens#Heart_of_Peytaht|the Forest of Peytaht]]; the [[Not_to_conquer#Rahvin|Rahvin]] in [[The_Barrens#Bitter_Strand|Bitter Strand]]; and the [[Not_to_conquer#Karass|Karass]] spread out across [[The_Barrens#The_Bleaks|the Bleaks]] and [[The_Barrens#The_Untrod_Groves|the Untrod Groves]]. Around them the territory grows more Dawnish by the day. New noble houses are slowly spreading eastward across the wilderness. And in the south the [[Navarr]] fan out from [[Keeper_of_the_Last_Battle|the Last Battle]] - their [[Navarr_wayhouse|wayhouse]] built in the Bleaks has attracted many of the refugees from [[Therunin]].

So not quiet. Not yet. But it is ''quieter''.

==Crass Accusations==
* '''The Karass continue to nurse their grievances and remain widely unpopular'''
* '''Two members of the sept have aided the druj'''
The Karass are not a well-liked sept. The other septs in the Barrens have always loathed them, though many of those are now dead. The [[Not_to_conquer#Vendarri|Vendarri]], who they [[Ripples_and_shadows#Saltmarsh_Redux|murdered in their beds]] after the Empire [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Declare_war_on_the_Vendarri|declared them barbarian]], had a long-standing feud with the Karass. The [[Not_to_conquer#Montanians|Montanians]], ill-fated adherents of [[malign spiritual presences#Anarchy|Anarchy]], regarded them as dangerous Druj sympathisers who were not trusted - but they too are [[Ripples_and_shadows#Hope's_Rest|gone]]. The [[Not_to_conquer#The_Black_Wind|Black Wind]] hated them, but those who still call themselves Black Wind are far from here, fleeing beside the Druj after a failed invasion of the [[Sarangrave]].

Of those who remain in the Barrens, the Rahvin detest the Karass, and claim they are just pawns of the Mallum. Those feelings are mutual and the Karass make similar claims of the Rahvin. The Great Forest Orcs have always vocally claimed that the Karass are no good, barely better than the Druj - but the Karass point out that some Great Forest Orcs still serve the Druj in their [[weirwood]] groves. This enmity for the Karass extends further than the septs of the Barrens. The mysterious Earl of the Groves, that strange creature who lives in the wild untrod heart of the Barrens and styles itself an Earl of Dawn, has a particular dislike for their leader, ''Anka Karass''.

In their defence, the Karass claim they have been reliable allies of the Empire since a treaty was signed between them. Even though they did not get their own region of the Barrens. Even though they have endured the ''indignity'' of the Navarr constructing the [[Keeper_of_the_Last_Battle#Last_Battle_Wayhouse|Last Battle wayhouse]] on the land they were ''permitted'' to live on in the Bleaks. Even though they helped the Empire explore the Untrod Groves and understand the danger of the manticore. They have done their duty as foreigners on Imperial soil and very conspicuously pay their taxes.

And yet, the accusations of disloyalty continue to swirl, a bad smell that just doesn't seem to go away. Recently, the Druj [[Root_and_branch#Hummingbird's_Secret_(The_Barrens)|attacked the Last Battle]] - the wayhouse that the Karass have made no secret of despising.
Reynard of de Gauvain and Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh have both written to the Karass, levelling accusations that members of the sept are implicated in these attacks.

''Anka Karass'', widely regarded as a wily operator even by those who loathe her, responds quickly. After persistent efforts by members of the sept, they have uncovered the two individuals who revealed the location of the Last Battle Wayhouse to the Druj. They furiously deny the accusation, but Anka has held them and is preparing to hand them over to Imperial justice.

However, she claims that their grievance are fundamentally legitimate. That, despite a good faith attempt by the Karass to engage with the realities of being subjects of Imperial rule, they have received only persistent accusations and suspicion from Imperial representatives. There has been a point-blank refusal to consider moving or dismantling the wayhouse that has violated the Karass' privacy, and there have been attempts to coerce information about sensitive and spiritually important treasures from them.

Still, treachery to those who hold dominion over you is unacceptable. To betray those who have power over you puts the entire sept at risk. She assumes the Empire will execute these members of her sept - as their leader, she insists on being present to bear witness and inform the rest of the Karass of the consequences of defying the Empire. She would dispense summary justice herself - but she has been informed that it is illegal under Imperial law for her to execute members of her own sept, something she seems particularly insulted by. As such, she requires Imperial justice to deal with these Druj-friends and quickly - before the reputation of the rest of the Sept is further besmirched.

There's just one small problem...
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=116_103_7872813_56749560_6.png|caption=Chief Magistrate ''Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra'' observes the situation with interest and is available to offer legal advice where needed.|width=200}}</div>
===Spies And Traitors (Conjunction)===
* '''The Karass have identified two members of the sept they claim revealed the location of the Last Battle to the Druj'''
* '''They are prepared to turn them over to Imperial justice and expect them to be executed'''
* '''It is not currently illegal for a foreigner to aid enemies of the Empire, even if they are on Imperial soil'''
* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|Combat Possible]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Envoy to the Karass'' is responsible for dealing with Anka Karass and the orcs she has imprisoned'''
{{InnocentPeoplePresent}}
Chief Magistrate ''Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra'' has investigated the claims, and is troubled by them. If the accused individuals had planned the assault on the Last Battle, there would be charges to answer. However incredible it may seem, it is not currently illegal for foreigners to pass information to the Druj who then use that to attack the Empire. Such an act would constitute [[List_of_Criminal_Offences#Crimes_of_Position|treason]] if a ''citizen'' did it but that only applies to Imperial citizens.

Given this problem, the civil service has not even attempted to explain it to Anka at this time. A [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunction]] has been identified leading to the Bleaks, to a place called the ''Execution Field''. This is a dark place of ill repute - apparently the site where the Druj meted out "justice" to the Karass and other local septs. Anka Karass is waiting there with the "traitors" in custody to hand them over to the Empire. She has been very clear that she expects the Empire to execute the pair. That can't happen based on the reports given to the magistrates, so she must be told to free them immediately lest she face charges herself, for imprisonment.

It is the responsibility of the [[Envoy to the Karass]] to ensure that someone explains the situation to Anka Karass, and try to straighten things out. Given the complexities of the situation, the Envoy, or their representative, should not go alone. It may be appropriate to take a Dawnish [[advocate]] with them to explain the precise technicalities of [[Imperial law]]. Chief Magistrate Cosme has asked the Envoy to come and speak with them before they go, so that they are quite clear on the precise details of the legal situation. Their advice is that there is no need for members of the Anvil militia or a magistrate to go.

Likewise, the Chief Magistrate will make themselves available to talk to any senator who wishes to address this apparent oversight in Imperial law.

===Groves and Trods===
* '''The Karass are being harassed by supporters of the Earl of the Groves'''
* '''Knight-Errants aspiring to House Courcillon have been trying to start fights with members of the sept'''
* '''The conduct of these knights has not ''yet'' risen to the point of constituting a crime'''
This is not even the end of the travails of the Karass, according to Anka. House Courcillon is a minor noble house based in Dawnguard, who do not send representatives to Anvil. They are known in the area as particular hardliners when it comes to questions of septs and the Dawnish right to conquer. They are also amongst those houses who are sympathetic to the claims of the Earl of the Groves. Their current Earl, Valerie, has publicly supported the claims of this monster to be Dawnish - despite the agreement by most Dawnish that a manticore can never be a member of their nation. The nobles of the house mostly made their nobility through tests of ruthless battle during the Barrens conquest.

Knights-Errant aspiring to House Courcillon have recently been seen in the Bleaks, trespassing on territory the Karass regard as theirs. While the details are not clear, they are reportedly pursuing their tests of mettle. Notoriously, the Earl of the Groves has set tests in the past asking for the murder of Anka Karass - it seems this practice of tests that deliberately target the Karass has spread to the Dawnish Earls who support him.

The Dawnish are careful to never strike the first blow - but a trained troubadour can wield insults like a knife until their adversary is driven to respond in frustration and anger - and then they can fight back, claiming self-defence. On occasion the Dawnish have been fined, but for the most part the Karass are the ones being punished for the encounters. It is only a matter of time before someone ends up dead. The Karass claims the House are deliberately antagonising them, picking a fight and using that as an excuse for murder. The house appear to genuinely believe that there is glory to be found in this - they seem to regard the matter as a kind of sport.

Insults and jeers are not illegal. House Courcillon are deliberately causing trouble for the Karass, but it's not illegal under Imperial law to be an arsehole, nor to deliberately antagonise a foreign population. As such, the Envoy to the Karass will also need to let Anka Karass know that harassing somebody until they attack you is not illegal under Imperial law.

One could claim the behaviour of the knight-errants is hardly befitting of a knight of [[Dawn]] - it might be appropriate for Earl Courcillon's encouragement of this behaviour from her knights-errant to be scrutinised by the Dawnish Assembly. She seems to see no need to reign in these excesses - indeed, she and her nobles are the source. Earl Valerie Courcillon is dedicated to [[Prosperity]] - much of her animosity stems from a belief that the Karass are lazy, grasping wastrels.

It is clear that while the Earl of the Groves remains, this kind of poisonous behaviour will continue to arise, even if House Courcillon is dealt with. He represents all that is brutal and raw and uncompromising - glory red in tooth and claw, perhaps, and with little love to it. He is encouraging an unsettling darkness in the hearts of those who listen to him, and slowly but surely their numbers are growing. It is a venom no less poisonous than the sting of his tail. There is nothing magical in this - there is no sense that people are bewitched by him. He is simply giving people an excuse to be the worst version of themselves.

Yet it is unclear how the Earl of the Groves himself is to be dealt with. By all accounts the heroes of Anvil are actively working to a solution to that problem, but if there is a plan it is not clear to many Dawnish what it is. The Earl himself has rarely been seen abroad over the Winter. There are rumours he and his supporters are making some kind of preparation in his manse in the heart of the Untrod Groves - though for what, it is hard to say. There are also rumours that his loyal servant Alice Retainer may be once again travelling to Anvil.

===Poems and Paeans===
{{SOP|statement=Under the brutal rule of the Druj, the Karass have been entirely deprived of the beauty of poetry. They are free of the Druj, but scars remain. Troubadours of Dawn - let us share our glorious art with the Karass! Teach them to craft with words and emotion! What better way to form bonds with our neighbours than to forge a common understanding of glory and love?|vote=194-0|by=Lord Killian Mortére|when=Autumn Equinox 387YE}}
* '''Dawnish troubadours have attempted to share the ideals of poetry and love with the Karass'''
* '''The Karass have not responded positively'''

House Courcillon are not even the only Dawnish citizens harassing the Karass. The Assembly backed a judgement by Lord Killian Mortére encouraging troubadours to visit the Karass and share poetry, the language of glory and love, with their neighbours. The judgement did not get a greater majority, but a handful of troubadours were inspired none-the-less. What could be more glorious than bringing an entire sept to Virtue - inspiring them with poetry and paeans to Glory?

The approach is not entirely successful. To put it mildly. At first the Karass assume that the Dawnish troubadours are mocking them. The assumption is that they are in league with House Courcillion, trying to bait the Karass into getting themselves killed by attacking the troubadours. They refuse to rise to the bait, but the looks they give the troubadours make it painfully clear that they would like nothing more than to commit bloody murder on every single one of them. One troubadour, Ser Eddard of House Aethon, ranked them the most hostile audience he had ever encountered.

Eventually Ser Eddard is able to explain to Anka Karass that he and his fellow troubadours are here to educate the Karass, to teach them to craft with words and emotion. Her response is memorable and frank and more than enough to convince him that the Dawnish may need to rethink their outreach to the Karass.

Somewhat disappointed, Ser Eddard and his companions decide to retreat. For now at least, it appears that the Karass have little interest in poetry.

<quote by="Anka Karass, Leader of the Karass">You are right. The brutal Druj deprived us of poetry. Still, they let us keep our lands. It was ''you'' that deprived us of those. Thank you for the poems.</quote>

===Houses and Homes===
* '''Anka Karass claims the insult of the Wayhouse is the reason two members of her sept betrayed them to the Druj'''
* '''She refuses any notion that she or her sept should pay to relocate the building'''
* '''She claims it is not possible to take a cutting from a Black Lotus and grow a new plant from it'''

Even once the matter of the alleged spies and House Courcillon are dealt with, the Karass will not be without grievance. Anka Karass and her sept have openly fumed about the construction of [[Keeper_of_the_Last_Battle#Last_Battle_Wayhouse|the Navarr Wayhouse]] in "their" lands. They regard its presence there as a calculated insult - they petitioned the Empire for control of the lands they live in. She claims were told "they would get nothing and like it" by the Dawnish - and then the Empire built this spyhouse here just to rub their noses in the fact that the Empire can do anything it wants and the Karass can do absolutely nothing about it.

Anka Karass accepts that her sept have no way to stop the Navarr coming and going as they please through their lands. She is quite clear that understands that the Empire will wipe them out in an eyeblink if cause trouble, just as they did with the Montanians, the Rahvin, and the Black Wind. They might be foreigners now, but the Throne can declare them to be barbarians with a single word and then the whole sept will die to an orc. She and they are used to living under the threat of death, she insists - they will not be cowed by blatant threats which hide themselves under pretty words. If the Empire means to say that the Karass must do as they say lest they be killed, then say it - but do them the courtesy of saying it.

Her point overall is that they are a ''very'' private sept - they jealously guarded their privacy for centuries, even the Druj permitted them that much. They will not renege on this. She accepts that their lives are worse now - that is what happens when you get conquered and must serve new masters! She claims to be doing everything she can to keep her sept in line, trying to make them understand just how close to death they are now they are ruled by the Empire. But the presence of the Last Battle is simply intolerable to many members of her sept, and she fears this disaster with the Druj will surely happen again. It is an inevitable consequence of the Empire pushing her sept to breaking point. She requests in turn that the Empire reconsider once more the idea of rebuilding the Last Battle elsewhere.

She declines the offer to pay the costs of relocating the Last Battle elsewhere. The Karass are poor: they owned little under the Druj and even less under the Empire. They are taxed on what little they have - they have no means to pay for it to be moved elsewhere. If the Empire were to cede the structure to the Karass, they might be able to adapt it into something that turned a profit. Over years, they could find a way to pay the Empire back - perhaps. But they have nothing else to pay the Empire with.

She refuses to acknowledge whether the sept actually has access to a Black Lotus plant. However she does explain that it is not possible to take a cutting from a Black Lotus and grow a new plant from it. With a hint of condescension, she points out that if it were that easy, the Druj would have a house full of Black Lotus plants, and people wouldn't wipe out entire septs just to get their hands on one...

According to Anka Karass, nobody has ever found a way to grow a new Black Lotus plant, hence why it is so utterly priceless. She believes that thirteen Black Lotus plants were created when the world was fashioned, so that the orcs could commune with the Creator. As they were fashioned by the Creator themselves, they cannot be grown by mortal hands.

She seems awfully well-informed about Black Lotus for someone who claims not to know anything about them.

==Golden Autumn==
* '''A Dawnish enchantment has brought Prosperity to the Dawnish, the Great Forest Orcs, the Navarr and the Rahvin'''
* '''It's power has not touched the Karass'''

During the Autumn Equinox the ''Hearth Hearted'', a Dawnish [[coven]], laid a subtle [[enchantment]] of [[Autumn magic]] over the Barrens to increase the [[Prosperity]] of those who live there provided they had metaphysical [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion|dominion]] over their homes. Travel became easier, negotiations were more fruitful, tools worked more efficiently, and luck fell more often in their favour. The enchantment primarily aided the Dawnish and Navarr, but it is clear that serendipity also favoured the orcs at the Heart of Peytaht and Bitter Strand. Those two septs have just as much dominion over the regions where they dwell as the Dawnish do over theirs.

For Imperial citizens, the impact of the enchantment is quickly felt. It helps people to negotiate and make deals with each other, and it helps industrious individuals build their new manses, and farms, and homes, and wayhouses with greater surety. While the orcs of the western Barrens are cautious in their dealings, they are more open to listening to newcomers and accepting fair deals. There is also a great sense of ambition and enthusiasm that spreads across the territory.

Following the Winter Solstice, any character from Dawn or Navarr can upgrade their personal resource from level one to level two for one fewer wains of material than normally required, to a minimum of one. This represents reaping the benefits of lucrative deals, industriousness, and general good fortune. It even applies to people whose personal resource is moved to the Barrens during the Winter Solstice (or before downtime closes after the event).

====Participation====
* '''The lingering effects of the enchantment provide a source of spiritual strength to Dawnish and Navarr citizens of the Barrens
* '''Following the Winter Solstice, Dawnish and Navarr characters can more easily upgrade standard resources
Any Dawnish or Navarr character whose personal resource was located in the Barrens after the Autumn Equinox can choose to be experiencing the lingering effects of the Autumn enchantment. This takes the form of a roleplaying effect: ''You feel an urge to resolve your problems through communication and negotiation, and feel empowered to approach your rivals or enemies in good faith.''

This brings with it a source of [[Roleplaying_effects#Spiritual|spiritual strength]] that lasts for the duration of the summit. When exposed to a roleplaying effect that tries to make you doubt your capabilities, fear for the future, or be suspicious of others you can respond with a vocal restatement of your hopes for the future and belief in yourself and resist that effect. This includes the effects of both the [[Druj miasma]] and the oppression of the {{Black Plateau}}.

===Hopeful Dawn===
* '''The Great Forest Orcs and the Rahvin have also benefited from the Autumn enchantment in their own regions
* '''The ''Fastness of Thorns'' - a fortification - has been completed in the Eaves of Peytaht
* '''The Rahvin continue to muster their army in Bitter Strand
The orcs of Peytaht have finally completed the construction of the ''Fastness of Thorns'', the [[weirwood]] [[fortification]] they have been building for a year or more. They have gathered a [[Fortification#Garrison|garrison]] from among the hunters and warriors who helped claim the Heart of Peytaht with the aid of their Navarr allies, although for the moment they restrict that garrison to protecting only the edges of the region they control and the weirwood grove that lies at its heart. Navarr visitors, and the refugees from Therunin offered sanctuary among the orcs, bring news that several thriving communities are now scattered through the region. As are the survivors from the destruction of Hope's Rest, although the orcs of the Great Forest attempt to keep the two apart as much as possible.

The Rahvin have seen similar successes. They are now well on the way to mustering an army at Bitter Strand. A portion of the mithril they [[Merchant of the Fangs|mine]] from the Fangs each season is offered in trade to the Dawnish, but the rest goes toward arming and armouring the Rahvin and those remnants of the Black Wind that live with them. They still have a way to go, but thanks to enchantment laid across the Barrens they have made significant progress. If the Rahvin are moved by the gift they make no mention of it. In fact they go out of the way to ignore the Dawnish as much as possible. The only thing they do pass on is a short message for '''Redhand Frith''' telling him that none of the stolen mithril has been returned to them yet.

One group who seem to have broadly been "ignored" by the Autumn magic are the Karass. While they have settlements scattered across the eastern and southern Barrens they do not have dominion over those lands and so the enchantment passes them by without a second look. They are aware of it, they see the effects in others and have magicians of their own who can detect it, but they know it is not for them. If it rankles even more to be further reminded of the precariousness of their position, existing as they do entirely at the Empire's whim, they say nothing.

===Eaves of Peytaht===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Broker of Thorns'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Navarr National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' [[Tally of the Votes]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Receives 11 wains of weirwood each season
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To work with the Great Forest Orcs if the Eaves of Peytaht is ever threatened</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Great Forest Orcs offer a bounty of weirwood to their friends among the Navarr'''
With the ''Fastness of Thorns'' completed, the elders of the Great Forest Orcs have given consideration as to what to do next. In Imperial hands, the [[The_Barrens#Eaves_of_Peytaht|Eaves of Peytaht]] could provide as much as 25 wains of weirwood each season. The Great Forest Orcs have demonstrated their facility with working with weirwood - the orcs living at the [[Golden Trees of Seren]] and [[Heartwood of the Great Vale]] offer this expertise to increase the number of wains that can be gathered each season without harming the groves.

With the Winter Solstice approaching, ''Chief Vallack'' announces that his people have reached a decision about what to do with their weirwood. They will of course keep a portion of what they produce each season for themselves, to ensure they have enough [[farm|hunters]] and [[herb garden|herb gardens]] to support their people. A portion of the remainder they intend to trade to the Rahvin; the renewed friendship that began last time the Barrens were enchanted with Autumn magic has only strengthened over time and they recently finished negotiations with their cousins along the Bitter Stand. The remainder, they intend to share with their friends the Navarr - they know their allies are suffering with the loss of the [[Thimble]].

Chief Vallack asks that the [[Senate|Imperial Senate]] formally recognise the [[Imperial title]] of ''Broker of Thorns''. This would need to be a national Bourse Seat appointed by the [[Tally of the Votes]]. The Broker would receive 11 wains of weirwood each season from the Eaves of Peytaht for the foreseeable future, as a sign of respect for their allies, and gratitude for the aid they have given them over the years. There will be some cost to the Senate, unfortunately; the normal costs for operating a Bourse Seat will apply simply because the Great Forest Orcs have no ability to transport the weirwood outside the Barrens. It is not possible for the title to be elected at this season, so if it is created it will be appointed for the first time at the Spring Equinox 388YE for a shortened term of three seasons.

All they ask for in return is that the Navarr support them in turn when the need arises. And that they stand ready to come to their aid if the Eaves of Peytaht are ever threatened - something they consider a given thanks to the oaths sworn by the Navarr.

===An Invitation to Dance===
{{SOP|statement=Dawn extends the hand of invitation to the sept of the Great Forest Orcs in the Barrens. If we are to be neighbours, let us work together for mutual benefit and Prosperity. As a demonstration of our good faith, a ritual has been performed in the Barrens to increase the prosperity of all inhabitants; from which we hope your people will benefit.|by=Lady Renata de Lagriffe, Dawnish Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 250-10|when=Autumn Equinox 387YE}}
* '''The ritual performed by the Dawnish has been well received by the Great Forest Orcs'''
* '''They have reciprocated with a single wain of weirwood gifted to Lady Renata'''

During the Autumn Equinox, '''Lady Renata de Lagriffe''' raised a [[statement of principle]] in the Dawnish National Assembly. In it the [[earl]] called for the Great Forest Orcs to work with Dawn for mutual benefit. The statement mentions the ritual that has been cast for the benefit of almost everyone who lives in the Barrens.

The Great Forest Orcs remain hostile to the people of Dawn. Their enmity goes back a decade and more, and though the relationship with the Navarr has blossomed, still the distrust of the Dawnish remains. In Summer 384YE they [[Into_the_valley#As_the_Water.27s_Dripping_Down_.28Battle.29|extended an olive branch to the Dawnish]] - an opportunity for their generals to conduct a ceremony of reconciliation with the Dawnish generals at [[The Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]] but it was summarily rejected.

The brutal [[Ripples_and_shadows#Black_Wind|suppression of the Black Wind]] horrified the Great Forest Orcs but the [[Ripples_and_shadows#Hope's_Rest|annihilation of the Montanians]], their closest friends and allies, shocked them to the core. The two groups had walked the [[trods]] together before the Barrens was retaken. Indeed it was the Montanians who originally persuaded the Great Forest Orcs to trust the Empire. They know it was the [[Varushka|Varushkans]] who carried out the slaughter, but there is a widespread belief across the Barrens that it was the Dawnish who ordered it. The Rahvin have told everyone that the Dawnish openly confessed as much to them - just before the [[Gryphon's Pride]] [[By northern shores|attacked the Rahvin]]. Just before '''Aramis Du Froste''', the first [[senator]] of the Barrens was murdered by his fellow Dawnish for trying to make peace with the septs.

Trust then, is in short supply, and it will take more than a ritual to fix that. There is an obvious question who the [[fortification]] that they have just completed is designed to protect the Great Forest Orcs from. There is a common belief that it is only the alliance with the Navarr that has forced the Empire to keep the arrangements made with them. That were it not for that, then the Dawnish would long since have fabricated some reason to attack and slaughter them, the same way they did every other sept in the Barrens.

And yet... every day that passes and the expected attack from the Dawnish doesn't come, they relax a little more. These people don't possess the Virtue of [[Vigilance]] - if they did it would be impossible for them to live side-by-side with the Dawnish given their mutual history. In it's place what they have is hope for a better future. A future that seems a little closer every day. This is not some dewy-eyed naivete. They control the Heart of Peytaht for the first time in living memory. The weirwood of the Groves is theirs to work and use. They can build their own homes, arm themselves, defend themselves. They don't like the Dawnish, they don't trust the Dawnish... but they openly admit that life under the Dawnish is incomparably better than it was under the Druj.

They are also realists. They may have close ties with the Navarr, but they understand that the Barrens is not a Navarr territory like Therunin was. Even with their new fortress, they know that their continued freedom relies on the forbearance of Dawn. They are proud of what they have built, but still they know that the armies of the Dawnish would wash over them like a tide if they cared to. They are nowhere near strong enough to resist Dawnish rule, not yet.

The Great Forest Orcs have not given up the dream that the Barrens might one day be [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|Free]]. That it might belong to the people of the Barrens - that those who lived there might rule themselves. But they also acknowledge that for them the purpose of that [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|Freedom]] was that they would control the Heart of Peytaht and the weirwood groves within... They don't have [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|Freedom]], but they do have the groves and the Heart. Life for the Great Forest Orcs is - surprisingly - good.

Thus, ''Renata's Gift'', as they are calling the ritual has come at the right time. The Great Forest Orcs are simple people, but they're not ignorant. They understand the magic that was used to aid them, how difficult it must have been to cast and what it would have cost the Dawnish. The Great Forest Orcs simply don't possess the means to cast a ritual that powerful. They can't reproduce it, but they know the cost and the value of it. And they are ''grateful''.

In response, they offer a single wain of weirwood. Fresh timber cut from the Eaves of Peytaht, kiln-dried and ready to use, delivered by the Navarr to the estates of Lady Renata de Lagriffe. Not as payment, but as reciprocation. As a gift. As a token of what might be.

It bears repeating that the Great Forest Orcs do not trust the Dawnish. ''Still''. Renata's Gift has not washed away a decade of bloodshed. But they ''have'' responded positively to this gesture of friendship - the first such response directed at the Dawnish from a Barrens sept in years. This proves that is not impossible that the Dawnish could win their trust, and maybe one day their [[Loyalty]]. [[The Way]] insists that nothing is impossible - for those who possess Virtue, ''nothing is beyond your grasp''.

But it never suggests that things will be easy. The Dawnish can only build on this development if they tread extremely carefully. As the outreach to the Karass this season shows, the wounds in the Barrens are still fresh and raw. A gift of salt is not welcome. That much is true of every one of the septs in the Barrens. It is still easier to offend then befriend. Attempts to win their trust that ignore past betrayals will ring hollow. Attempts to gain their friendship that don't acknowledge what Imperial victory in the Barrens has cost the septs will buy only bitter rebukes. Winning just the Great Forest Orcs round will take patience, generosity, and years of hard work.

But even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time.

The thing with feathers

2026-04-21T21:43:49Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Victory Against the Night (Whisper Gallery) */ Finishing a sentence

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<ic>"I hope the next place is a bit bigger, my back's ''killing'' me!"

"I'm sure wherever it is will be perfectly acceptable, now chuck me the spare pick."

"Brother, I love you. But there's more to life than mining rock, processing the ore, smelting it down into easily usable ingots, and then selling those ingots to the highest bidder."

"Really, sibling, tell me a single thing that is better than what you've just described. That sounds like the perfect day to me."

"Well, spending it afterwards?"</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Feather2.jpg|align=left|caption=I've heard it in the chillest land - And on the strangest Sea -
Yet - never - in Extremity - It asked a crumb - of me.|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
Six [[Realms|realms of magic]] align with the mortal world whose [[Inhabitants of the realms|inhabitants]] are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet to a degree share some of their concerns. They are both complex and simple at the same time, seeking to change the world to match their perception of how it should work. They bargain and negotiate, threaten and cajole, and while it can be difficult to predict exactly where their gifts or curses might lead, still they have much to offer.

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

It is a rare season that passes without an eternal, or a handful, seeking to influence the Empire. There are other winds of fortune that speak of different situations. The responses to the [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missives of the Archmages from this season is covered in the '''[[Ourselves and immortality]]''' wind of fortune.

Magical events originating closer to home are detailed in the companion wind of fortune, '''[[The tune without the words]]'''. There is also the '''[[Mushroom, mushroom, mushroom]]''' wind of fortune specifically on the renewed interest of [[Llofir]] in the Empire; and '''[[In the ground‎]]''' which has the response from [[Adamant]] to the Stone Smith, along with other eternals interested in [[the Marches]].

==Day==
===Rite of Way (Roshanwe)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=RoshanweArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''The heralds of the Elder Pharos will come to the Anvil Arena to host the promised challenge of ceremonies at 14:00 Saturday'''
* '''They expect the five teams that the volunteers have promised to organise, and as many spectators as wish to attend'''
* '''A small group of Sumaash präster will also attend - to participate, not to talk politics'''
The [[Roshanwe|Finder of the Way]], as the eternal of truth-seeking sometimes names herself, offered the Imperials the chance to win her boon at the [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Let_Every_Word_(Roshanwe)|last summit]]. The challenge was laid down for five teams to perform their most magnificent - or moving - [[Religious skills|religious ceremonies]]. Several Imperial volunteers gave their names to ''Miriam When The Rain Is Steel'', an adventuresome herald, and promised to organise the teams and ensure they all knew the rules of the challenge, which the herald ensured the Imperials had multiple copies of.

One wet day, a few short weeks before the summit, ''Miriam When The Rain Is Steel'' returns to the Hub. There they discuss the details with ''Jorgen'', the long-suffering civil servant with the unenviable task of talking to heralds. The dashing herald is fresh from fighting a many-headed monster deep in the inhospitable Desert of Sapphidy, and makes it clear that she is much keener to slay another than discuss timings and organisation, so the two quickly come to an agreement. ''Miriam'' also informs the rather harassed looking Jorgen that a delegation from the [[Sumaah Republic]] is on its way, by invitation of the Beachcomber, to participate. ''Miriam When The Rain Is Steel'' leaves at a run, but shouts over her shoulder that she will also attend to distribute the Wise Pioneer's gift to the participants.

===The Day Came Slow (Ylenwe)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ylenwe001.webp|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Two heralds of Ylenwe will arrive at the Hall of Worlds at 22:45 on Saturday'''
* '''Ylenwe has requested the Archmage of Day, or their representative, take them to experience dancing'''
* '''The current Archmage of Day is ''Skywise Gralka'' of the Imperial Orcs'''
A herald with shimmering blue and silver scales steps out of the regio on a brisk, late-autumn day. The herald walks with a light grace towards the Hub, humming a soft melody in time with their step. They find the place surprisingly busy, with harassed-looking civil servants trying to placate an incandescent Highborn farmer whose wheelbarrow of cabbages had been overturned by an overzealous herald of [[Rhianos]]. Seemingly unaffected by the chaos they've walked into, the herald offers a gentle smile to the civil servant at the desk and waits for them to finish their paperwork.

Ylenwe is curious about the mortal view on movement and music. The herald explains ''Zie of the Perfect Morning'' believes that dance could serve as the harmony between music and mathematics. A pair of zie's heralds will journey to Anvil at the upcoming Winter Solstice, to partake in different types of music and to understand how people move to it. The Dove asks that '''Skywise Gralka''', the [[Archmage of Day]], or her chosen representatives, welcome the heralds and introduce them to a variety of music.

==Winter==
===Heartbreaking (Agramant)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=AgramantArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''A group of Navarr from Therunin have claimed that Agramant considers the territory to be "''fair game''"'''
* '''Agramant has made an offer to any military captains in Therunin who are the target of ''Unleash the Beasts Within'''''
* '''Anyone performing ''Treacher's Quill'' asking for support in Therunin can also send 14 liao and receive a magical foci'''
On one particularly cold night before the winter summit, a haggard group of Navarr make their way across the border into [[Reikos#Chalcis Mount|Chalcis Mount]], having managed to overcome the horrors of [[Therunin]] and escape into Imperial territory once again. The ''Mourningstone'' have slipped through the lines to warn the Empire what the Howler is up to.

A number of their fellow Navarri have only managed to survive with the aid of [[Agramant|Dream of Famine]]. Cut off, with dwindling supplies and surrounded by ettercaps, people are finding it hard to resist Howler's aid. The only price he is extracting is a promise to spread word of his generosity far and wide. Wastewalker claims that out of respect for the Navarr Assembly, the ''Howler'' waited for the Empire to reclaim Therunin. The people of the territory were [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_215|told]] that aid was on its way... but that was a year and a half ago. And the ''Horned Manticore'' is done waiting when there are so many eager to be saved.

It seems that heralds of ''He who calls the Lost to Feast'' are now active in the territory. For the most part, they have been resolutely ignored - or beaten to death with extreme violence - but as time goes on, more Navarri are bound to be tempted. In an attempt to hasten that along, ''the Whisperer'' has made it known that any Navarr [[military unit]] based in Therunin that is enchanted with [[Unleash the Beasts Within]] at the coming summit will be supported further by his heralds. The ritual will provide an additional two ranks when [[Military_unit#Campaigning|supporting]] an army on campaign. Further, if the army is in Therunin, then the captain will also receive a [[Venture#Raid_the_Druj|Druj potion]], taken from the Druj remnants in the territory. The presence of the heralds of Agramant would be known to every Imperial taking part in the campaign, but not who they were attached to. ('''OOC Note:''' It would be mentioned in the winds of war, but it would not be clear which military unit they were supporting.)

Obviously, the ritual is in [[Urizen lore]], which means that any Navarri willing would need to convince a ritualist from that nation to help them. The ''Hunter in the Wastes'' offers a different gift to the Masters of the High Peaks; any Urizen magician who performs [[Treacher's Quill]] this season to ask for boons defending against the vallorn and reclaiming Therunin, can include with it 14 liao and a piece of jewellery. ''Old Bloody Teeth'' will return the jewellery as a boon, a [[:Category:Foci|foci]] that enhances a Winter ritualist's ability to perform the rituals in the [[Agramant#Childer_of_the_Black_Drop|Ceremonies of the Black Drop Society]].

If a magician found a way to send a dose of [[true liao]] with their jewellery instead, they would receive an incomparable boon, a powerful relic from the Howler for the magician and a boon to invoke Agramant's aid in defence of a homeland when attacked. Of course, it's not ''only'' the Urizen who have the ways and means to cast that ritual, the ''Carnivore Concierge'' has friends in all nations, and the same offer is open to others too.

===Moments of Silence (Sorin)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Sorin001.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''The Basalt Citadel has been called to Eoradal every season for the last year
* '''The Sepulchral Pontifex, herald of Sorin, will be visiting the Imperial Orc camp at 22:45 on Saturday
For an entire year, the ruins of Eoradal have hosted the Basalt Citadel of [[Sorin|the Empty One]]. Even when the [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae|Frozen Citadel]] was called from the demesne of the [[Cathan Canae|Immovable One]], the '''Heralds of the Reaper''' drew the black stone fortress from the Silent Kingdom. This commitment to the defence of [[Mareave]] has drawn the grudging respect of the Monarch of the Silent Kingdom, who has dispatched the ''Sepulchral Pontifex'' to speak with the Imperial orcs to see what strength and wisdom they have gained over the conflict of the last year.

Should the answer please the Pontifex, and an appropriate level of respect and gratitude be shown, there is an offer the Tomb King wishes to make to the nation, though details of this were not shared with the civil service. The Sepulchral Pontifex has not visited the mortal realm in decades and will therefore be guided by an attaché, ''Noah of the Fallen Leaves''.

Finally, the Sepulchral Pontifex requests the attendance of one of the '''Heralds of the Reaper''' and one of the '''Wolves of the Pale Raven''', ideally '''Lenni Voittoson''' as their only [[Draughir|whelpborn]], to attend as well. There is some concern that the Heralds do not have a single whelpborn amongst them; they should find someone who is to speak on their behalf while they are there.

==Spring==
===The Pride of Gryphons (Irra Harah)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002a.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Irra Harah has asked the Gryphon's Pride to help the rebels build watchtowers in Nesustak Forest'''
* '''If supported by the Gryphon's Pride, the watchtowers will remove the under threat quality from the region'''
Two seasons ago, '''Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose''', [[Gryphon's Pride|General of the Gryphon's Pride]], met with heralds of Irra Harah to [[Can_you_hear_me%3F#The_Prince_of_a_Thousand_Foes|discuss]] how the people of Dawn understand the world. The outcome of that meeting is still unknown, but the general's orders from [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Military_Council_orders#Gryphon's_Pride|that season]] and the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Gryphon's_Pride|one following]] both make references to the children of ''Papa Otec''. A few heralds of ''Shackle-Smasher'' were seen around the army last season in the [[Sarangrave]], talking to the questing knights and war-witches of the army, and now ''Broadleaf'', herald of ''Warrenwise'', comes to the army with a request.
{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=175}}
The rebels of the Sarangrave are busy consolidating their hold on [[Sarangrave#Nesustak_Forest|Nesustak Forest]], but the region lies in the shadow of the [[Keeper_of_the_Last_Battle#Last_Battle_Wayhouse|Last Battle Wayhouse]] in [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|the Bleaks]]. The Bloodwater Spears have, with the support of the Prince of Beggars' heralds, drawn up plans for a series of [[edifice|watchtowers]] that will remove the ever-present [[Region_qualities#Under_Threat|threat]] imposed by the [[Navarr wayhouse|wayhouse]] on the region. However, the work will take years if the rebels have no outside help. ''Broadleaf'' has discussed the matter with Halyx Fireeyes, the young matriarch of the sept, and they have agreed to allow the soldiers of the Gryphon's Pride - and only the Gryphon's Pride - to help.

At the Winter Solstice, the General of the Gryphon's Pride can take a [[Army_orders#Defending|defensive]] order with wording to specifically support the rebels in building their watchtowers. If they do so, then the watchtowers will be completed by the Spring Equinox 388YE, and the under threat quality on Nesustak Forest will be removed. If there is no campaign during the season, then they will benefit from natural resupply, and [[Casualties#Emergency_Resupply|emergency resupply]] if any.

===The Stone Cried Out (Irra Harah again)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''A herald of Irra Harah has called for three landskeepers and smiths of Anvil to the Hare Stone'''
* '''''Linley Weaver'' of Goatsbridge Coven is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for visiting the Hare Stone'''
* '''This conjunction is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
{{InnocentPeoplePresent}}
Shortly after the end of the Autumn Equinox, the alder of [[Wildest_dreams#New_Longstwick_Market|New Longstwick]] is approached by a distressed-looking briar, ''Margie o' the Woods''. The [[briar|greenscar]] explains that there's something strange going on at the Hare Stone, and that a herald of [[Irra Harah|Prince with a Thousand Foes]] has told them to ask for smiths and landskeepers of Anvil to visit and "''work out what's what''". The briar asks that '''Linley Weaver''', as representative of the coven that most [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_interlude#Stone,_Branch,_Fen,_and_Ice|recently]] performed [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] on Alderly. Linley Weaver is asked to arrange for six to come, ideally an even mix of landskeepers and smiths.

Margie says the Price doesn't mind if Linley is in the number but they should include at least one attending their first summit, and someone who knows the [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Rattle_of_the_Bones|history of the woods]]. ''Margie'' warns that the number shouldn't include any holders of Imperial titles, as that would apparently just make things worse; "''the protectors won't stop fighting and, frankly, they're fucking me right off''". Who the Protectors are and why they're fighting remains something of a mystery.

===Midwinter, Was It? (Llofir)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=LlofirArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''There is an opportunity to end the suffering of those fighting the vallorn
* '''The ''Speaker of the Vallornguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for ending the suffering of those in Eastring
* '''This conjunction is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat contained]] encounter
{{InnocentPeoplePresent}}
Shortly before the Winter Solstice, a herald of ''[[Llofir|the Wisdom of Dead Wood]]'' carefully shuffles its way into the Hall of Worlds and starts to speak to one of the magicians there. The towering herald - almost human if not for the coned cap in place of a head - gills undulating as it speaks in a gentle whisper, asks that a message be passed on to [[vine|vines]] and to the [[Vallornguard|enders of the wellspring]]. The vines have made an oath to "heal all those who would stand against the vallorn", and the herald explains that the ''Rotlord'' is aware of some who are suffering after fighting [[vallornspawn husk|vallornspawn husks]]. The Wisdom of Dead Wood asks that the [[Vallornguard#Speaker_of_the_Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] journey through the Sentinel Gate with the vines to Eastring, [[Therunin]], and end the suffering of those there.

The herald warns that there is a vallornspawn briar in the area acting strangely; it does not appear to be immediately aggressive. Indeed, it doesn't appear to care at all about the wounded folk, but the herald advises that anyone going close might cause it to lash out. The herald asks that '''Earl Percival Summerstrong''', as Speaker of the Vallornguard, work with the vines and the sodality to ease the suffering of those who cannot be saved and cast [[Turns the Circle]] to allow them to die peacefully and painlessly.

<big>'''Content Warning'''</big><br>
This encounter contains themes of suicide and assisted dying, such as with [[Surcease of Sorrow]], and will involve depictions of injuries. It is unsuitable for participants who might struggle with such themes.

==Night==
===Can You Hear It? (Janon)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Janon002b.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Vanja Oddsbreaker, the former Shadowed Torchbearer, has vacated her position'''
* '''Janon has sent a ''Ring of the Oddsbreaker'' to the Prefect of the Conclave to be given to whoever is elected to replace her'''
* '''The Ring of the Oddsbreaker can be used to send a short missive to the Muse of Fire each season for a year'''
* '''Heralds of Janon have accepted an invitation to witness the Imperial Orc fighting pit for presumably unrelated reasons'''
Heralds of [[Janon|Shadowfire]] have been following the actions of the [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] over the past eighteen months, and those abroad in the Empire have spoken of ''Blazing Blade's'' joy in hearing their tales. When word reaches them that ''Vanja Oddsbreaker'' of [[Wintermark]], the first Shadowed Torchbearer, has vacated her position, he is not perturbed. The ''Night Sword'' heaps effervescent praise on the work done by her friend. Yet ''The Pyre Of Hearts'' regrets that sie did not give zir representative a chance to speak with it. To prevent such a regrettable state of affairs from recurring in future, ''The Blazing Blade'' has dispatched the Ring of the Oddsbreaker to ''Abelard the Assiduous'', [[Prefect of the Conclave]], to be given to whoever is elected to the position at the upcoming summit.

The Ring of the Oddsbreaker serves as a piece of [[:Category:Jewellery|jewellery]] that allows the person bonded to it to send a short missive of no more than one hundred words to Janon each season. The herald explains that this should include at least some details on what the Shadowed Torchbearer has been doing to further the concerns of ''Freedom's Call''. Heralds of ''Shadowfire'' explain that whilst anyone could be bonded to the Ring of the Oddsbreaker, it is probably not a good idea for anyone other than the Shadowed Torchbearer to try using it to send a missive to the eternal.

'''OOC Note:''' The player of the character bonded to the Ring of the Oddsbreaker can email {{plot}} after each event before downtime closes with a missive of up to one hundred words to Janon.

Not everything is about Imperial politics. ''The Flame Of The Ancestors'' has apparently received an invitation to witness the passionate fire of the Imperial Orcs as they honour their ancestors in the fighting pit. The heralds will arrive in the Hall of Worlds at 17:00 on Saturday, and intend to go from there to the fighting pit as intended. ''The Voice Of Zorech'' has been very pleased with the reception that faer heralds have received in Anvil thus far. ''The Scribe Of Burning Names'' wishes it to be known that all those who desire blessings need only come to the heralds to have their innermost fires kindled. No clarification is offered as to what this mildly ominous statement might actually mean.

===Victory Against the Night (Whisper Gallery)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=WhisperGal004.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Attacks by heralds and agents of the Whisper Gallery against civil servants and researchers have fallen'''
* '''Attacks against the Magpies, and the sodality's supporters have risen'''

The [[Whisper Gallery]] have been a poisoned thorn in the side of researchers and civil servants since the [[Bloody murder|summer of 379YE]]. For almost ten years, the eternal's agents and heralds have threatened, attacked, and taken out bounties on the department of [[historical research]] and other places of discovery and learning. Two years ago, ''Ris Steelfist'' urged [[A_long_December#The_Fucking_Whisper_Gallery|urged people]] to hunt down the enemy and take the fight to them, launching the War of Whispers.

Perhaps the war has been successful? For the last six months, there have been no credible reports of attacks. At first some assume that the ''Court of the Shadowed Oracle'' have finally been silenced - at least, when not [[Ourselves_and_immortality#Only_Gossamer,_My_Gown|responding]] to a message from the [[Archmage of Night]]. Sadly that proves a little too optimistic - it seems the ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne'' now has bigger fish to fry.

Members of the [[Magpies]] have reported figures in dark robes, dusky shrouds, and inky cloaks following them. One member, a would-be explorer called Vanya Heartsworn looking for lost [[Inga_Tarn#Signs|Avalanche]], was found close to death from several knife wounds, by their associates. There was no sign of the assailant, Vanya survived, but claims to have seen nothing of their attacker.

When one front closes, another opens it seems. Still, the Empire has successfully protected what remains of the department of historical records from the ''Shadow Courtiers'' poison. Has the Empire managed to root out the last cultists of the ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne''? Definitely not, but maybe it is winning this shadow war.

====Against a Threat====
{{SOP|statement=The Assembly of Vigilance REJECT the premise of a single threat or cause being "the most important". To only focus on the poison in one neighbours' field leaves us blind to the poison in another. We are all watchtowers, to build all our watchtowers in one place is the height of folly.|by=Irada Von Temeschwar, Vigilance Assembly|vote=310-102|when=Autumn 387YE}}
* '''The Imperial Archivist has requested that the Vigilance Assembly consider encouraging the faithful to seek out the agents of other eternals under enmity'''
* '''Doing so could make it easier to counter threats from Agramant and other eternals under enmity'''
* '''The cost is giving the Whisper Gallery more leeway to attack the Magpies'''

Last season, the Vigilance Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_104|statement of principle]] raised by '''Irada Von Temeschwar''' that rejected the notion of a single threat being [[The highest calling|the most important]]. The judgement did not manage to achieve a greater majority, but it piqued the interest of ''Leontes the Scribe'', who has asked the assembly to consider encouraging the vigilant to go further. If a [[statement of principle]] that directs the vigilant to seek out heralds of other eternals under [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] is upheld with a greater majority, then the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|War of Whispers]] venture will expand after the Winter Solstice.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=175}}
The Vigilance Assembly could choose a specific realm to focus on, which would change the venture's production to 96 rings, a pawn of appropriate [[vis]], one mana crystal.

Alternatively, and in keeping with the judgement raised by '''Irada''', they could call on the vigilant to seek out the agents of ''all'' eternals under enmity. This would change the production to 96 rings, one mana crystal, and either a vial of [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]], a vial of [[Vis#Heart's_Blood|heart's blood]], or a pouch of [[Vis#Crystal_Fire|crystal fire]] (although [[Cold Sun]] is under enmity, its ''scions'' are few and far between in the Empire).

If the Conclave chose to change the alignment of other eternals, then it would also change the potential vis available in the venture. Of course, if the Assembly don't issue a call to action - or it doesn't pass with a greater majority - then the faithful will continue focussing their efforts on protecting the agents of the Whisper Gallery.

On the face of it, Leontes' proposal seems like a fair one - there is only one small drawback. Abraham points out that resources are limited, if the Vigilance Assembly refocus the War of Whispers away from the Whisper Gallery, it will help to counter threats from [[Agramant]] and other evils. But it will inevitably mean the Whisper Gallery has a freer hand than it has had to date. That means members of the Magpies will be at ''greater'' risk than they are now. Many of the Magpies are tough heroes of Anvil - not like the defenceless academics who report to Leontes - so they'll be fine right?

====Knife In the Snow====
{{CaptionedImage|file=Magpie Sodality.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Servants of the Whisper Gallery have attacked a group of Magpies near Gulnar's Depths in Hahnmark'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The Magpie sodality is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for selecting someone to take responsibility for the conjunction during their formal session at 3pm Saturday'''
* '''This conjunction is for sixty people at 18:30 on Friday ''at the next summit'''''
It appears the Empire may have an ally in their war against the Whisper Gallery. The [[Zakalwe|''Hunter of Tides'']] has little time for what it regards as "the capricious wickedness of Rainbow Mask". Delphysius, herald of [[Zakalwe]], has spent time studying the reports of the recent attack, almost certainly agents of the Whisper Gallery, on Vanya Heartsworn. After thorough divination of the Sentinel Gate, Delphysius believes they have identified a conjunction that could help, not this summit, ''but next''.

It is rare, but not completely unknown, for the Sentinel Gate to give up such secrets. Scholars who study the Gate claim that the conjunctions are a reflection of fate, and since fate is not fixed, they rarely occur far into the future. But rare is not never and the prognosticators have confirmed that the conjunction is real - and fixed - at least for now.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Zakalwe001.png|align=right|width=175}}
Working with Delphysius, the evidence seems overwhelming that the conjunction concerns the murderous attack on Vanya and presumably is linked to his personal quest to recover Avalanch, the famed rune-forged two-handed hammer, that featured in so many of the adventures of [[Inga Tarn]]. Most credible scholars think Vanya was off his rocker hoping to find the hammer in the valleys near Gulnar's Depths. Still he must have found ''something'', some secret, that provoked the Gallery to attack.

Given this is most definitely the business of the Magpies, the civil service have asked the sodality to take a vote during their formal session at 3pm Saturday to choose one of their number to take responsibility for the skirmish. Whoever the Magpies select will need to find sixty heroes of Anvil prepared to pledge to support them when they go through the gate ''at the Spring Equinox''. If there is some clue that might lead people to Avalanche, then they will need to be ready to fight the Whisper Gallery's minions.

==Summer==
===In the Fields of Glory (Eleonaris)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=EleonarisArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Seven armies were enchanted with Knights of Glory at the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''Soldiers in armies enchanted with Knights of Glory this season are becoming more attuned to the Summer Realm
As has been previously stated, the reign of [[Empress Brannan]] saw armies becoming reliant on Knights of Glory, which saw exposure to the glorious knights of the Summer realm having an unlooked-for effect on Imperial soldiers. Over the last year or more, the Empire has increasingly relied on Knights of Glory to empower its armies, especially (but not exclusively) in their fight against the Druj.
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">
<quote by="Sakari Nightscale, Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield">Conclave witnesses the ongoing effects of the Summer realm on armies in the Sarangrave. We permit further castings of Knights of Glory, but will oversee the situation vigilantly</quote></div>
It's [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Splendor_and_Pennants_(Eleonaris)|been noted]] that [[Knights of Glory]] is having a lasting effect on armies enchanted with it, most clearly observed in [[Sarangrave]]. This may be because of the [[Druj miasma|oppressive aura of fear]] coupled with the feeling of confidence and personal power sponsored by exposure to the heralds of the [[Eleonaris|Fields of Glory]].

As per the '''[[Even_darkness_must_pass#Game_Information|Even darkness must pass]]''' wind of war, the [[Eastern Sky]], [[Gryphon's Pride]], [[Lions of Adelmar]], [[Granite Pillar]], [[Fire of the South]], [[Citadel Guard]], [[Golden Axe]], and [[Northern Eagle]] cannot take the [[Army orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]] or [[Army orders#Give Ground|Give Ground]] orders. Following the past season in the Sarangrave, the [[Summer Storm]] are included in that number. This effect persists until the army in question has spent an entire year without experiencing the Knights of Glory enchantment.

Only one army, the Golden Axe, hosted the Knights of Glory again this season. Further information on how the general might take advantage of the situation to reforge the army can be found in the '''[[Fire_and_the_flood#Participation:_Gaspare_and_the_Axe_of_Victory|Fire and the floor]]''' wind of war.
{{SOP|statement=Pilgrims of the Granite Pillar, your Assembly, supported by your general, now speaks. You have stood in battle beside the knights of Eleonaris, and your Courage is not in question for you fight for the Ambition of the Empire. Yet do not forget: these are beings from the realms, not of the Way. Do not disrespect them, but keep your distance, and do not mistake them for creatures of Virtue. Their purposes are not ours; do not allow their influence to determine your actions. Let your hearts turn evermore towards Virtue. Seek out the priests who march beside you; and use liao ceremonies, that you may overcome the temptations of the realms. Let Vigilance be your watchword and Courage your shield. For in the Mallum, danger hides everywhere, and the gifts of the realms often come with hidden chains. Trust not in power for its own sake, but in the Way alone.|by=Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament, Highborn Assembly|vote=772-0 (Greater Majority)|when=Autumn Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
====Standing in Defiance====
* '''The Highborn Assembly can enact a mandate to call soldiers of the nation's armies to turn away from support offered by heralds'''
* '''If enacted, Highborn armies would once again be able to take the ''Give Ground'' and ''Cautious Advance'' orders for the coming year'''
* '''If the affected armies were supported by heralds as a result of an enchantment or boon they would have 1000 less strength for the coming year'''

At the Autumn Equinox, two statements of principle were raised that addressed the situation with Knights of Glory. One, raised by '''Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below''' in the Loyalty Assembly, issued a call for the "''restoration of free mortal will''". This was upheld, but without a greater majority, so it has received little attention outside of Anvil. The other, raised by '''Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament''' in the Highborn Assembly, was upheld with a greater majority and so has received recognition across Highguard.

{{Mandate|mandate=Be alert to all dangers; within and without. We send (named priest) with 50 doses of liao to encourage our courageous soldiers to stand apart from these servants of eternals. Seek out falsehood and expose the truth.|assembly=Highborn Assembly}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Highborn.png|align=right|width=175}}
If this mandate is enacted, Highborn soldiers will deliberately keep their distance from any heralds or other servants of an eternal sent to fight alongside them. As a result, the General of the Granite Pillar (and other Highborn generals) will be able to issue orders to give ground or maintain a cautious advance for the coming year. Such distance comes at a price, however. Highborn armies that are enchanted with rituals [[Knights of Glory]] or [[Quickening Cold Meat]], or supported by the Knights of Tharim will also lose a thousand effective strength for all purposes during that year. Any ritual or boon that calls on an eternal to send creatures to fight alongside an army will be affected.

===Hope's Rest (Cathan Canae)===
* '''The Phoenix Rising coven of Dawn is three-quarters of the way to receiving a boon from Cathan Canae
* '''They need to perform Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae one more time at Hope's Rest in the Barrens
For the last three seasons, the '''Phoenix Rising''' [[coven]] of [[Dawn]] has been raising the [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] over the region of [[The Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]] in [[the Barrens]]. As well as offering protection to the [[territory]], the [[enchantment]] is [[Golden_magicians_fayre#Frozen_Strength|part of a test]] by [[Cathan Canae]] from whom the ritual draws power.
{{CaptionedImage|file=CathCane001b.webp|align=right|width=175}}
If a frozen citadel is raised in Hope's Rest during the Winter Solstice, then the task will be complete. At the start of the Spring Equinox 388YE, the ''Mistress of Blizzards'' will anchor a little of the essence of her [[Realms#Summer|domain]] in the [[Region_qualities#Hills|hills]] of the southern Barrens. The region will gain the ''Rimebound'' quality - the weather there will always be slightly worse than in the rest of the Barrens, with regular snowfalls and even blizzards in winter. But any casting of Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae on the region - or any other similar Summer enchantments - will be empowered. The ritual already summons a [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae|battalion of heralds]] from the demesne of the ''Queen of Ice and Darkness''; when cast at Hope's Rest she will provide one of her great captains and their warband to support the defence of the territory. The battalion will have a total strength of 3,000 towards determining victory and inflicting casualties, and take part in any military campaign in the territory, applying their fighting strength against invading enemies or fighting alongside friendly armies. At the same time, [[Stalwart Stand on Solid Ground]] will mean the fortification does not collapse until the ritual ends, no matter how much damage it takes.

The magicians of Dawn would also gain leave to use [[ilium]] to permanently summon a Frozen Citadel in Hope's Rest if they wish. Should they choose to do so, the ''Thane of the Rimebound Shore'' will petition his mistress to allow his personal castle to be summoned to the mortal world and bring his household to support it until such time as the Druj of the Mallum are permanently broken. The ''Citadel of the Rimebound Shore'' follows the rules for a [[fortification]] - the [[fortification#bastion|bastion]] would provide significant protection to Hope's Rest, and the Thane's personal retinue would [[fortification#garrison|garrison]] the territory, keeping guard against both the Druj and the [[vallorn]], as well as keeping a watchful eye on the wilder places of the Barrens.

With the willing support of the Thane and his mistress, this feat could be achieved with "only" 100 rings of ilium rather than the usual requirement of 300 rings. Furthermore, until the Druj are defeated or the Imperial Conclave declares [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] against Cathan Canae, the presence of the Thane and their warriors will mean the citadel has no upkeep unless the Empire chooses to [[Fortification#Improvement|improve]] it in some way. This offer of a permanent citadel remains until the start of the Spring Equinox 389YE.

====Broken Fist====
* '''The Fist of the Black Glacier can no longer be cast'''
* '''The assurance on the ritual was broken at the Summer Solstice 387YE'''
Two years ago, at the Winter Solstice 385YE, three generals were [[Begins_where_it_ends#Cathan_Canae|invited]] by a castellan of the ''[[Cathan Canae|Queen of Ice and Darkness]]'' to discuss the strategies behind the conquest of [[Ossium]], [[Sermersuaq]], and [[Zenith]]. '''Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''', as the [[Citadel Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]], won the competition and was rewarded with a ritual text to call on the Fist of the Black Galcer. The ''Castellan of the Spire of Unbroken Notes'' visits the Hall of Worlds following the Autumn Equinox with the sad, but firm, news that with the [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Decommission_the_Eastern_Guard|decommissioning]] of the Eastern Guard, the assurance on the ritual has been broken.

It is unclear how the ''Lady of the Frost'' feels about the situation: clearly, the Senate must have had a reason for decommissioning the fortification, but it is a demonstration that the Empire does not share the same concerns as the ''Immovable One''. If the [[Archmage of Summer]] wants to explain the reasoning to the eternal, then their power of [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] is available.

===Champions of a Champion (Hayaak)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Hayaak001b.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Those who championed Hayaak during the Icy Crag tourney have received their rewards from Hayaak'''
* '''Hayaak remains as the patron of the Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun'''
During the Summer Solstice 387YE, the [[Hayaak|Peregrine Knight]] became the patron of the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]]. The Outlaw Prince had to [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#College_of_Magic_(Hayaak)|delay]] providing rewards to his champions, but has dispatched his heralds to '''Nimue de Rondell'''; '''Arlen Foreman-Smith'''; and the Master of Ice and Darkness himself, '''Alexander Tallstag'''.

To Nimue, he has sent a [[:category:Paired Weapons|set of blades]] taken from an overthrown queen. The blades are similar to the [[Earthquake Drummers]] known to Imperial artisans, and the corrupt queen of an unknown realm used them to slaughter her own people until she was overthrown.

To Arlen, he has sent a set of [[:category:Mage Armour|mage armour]] taken from a twisted king. The armour is similar to the [[Twilight Pauldrons]] known to Imperial artisans, and the deceitful king of an unknown realm used them when spreading malice and suffering to his people until he was cast down.

To Alexander, he has sent a piece of [[:category:jewellery|jewellery]] taken from a fallen monarch. The jewellery is similar to the [[Abraxus Stone]] known to Imperial artisans, and the crooked monarch of an unknown realm used it to swindle their way into power, until he was deposed.

Hayaak has exerted his will to infuse the items with fresh power; their restored enchantments will last a year.

==Autumn==
===Hope is a Subtle Glutton (Callidus)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=CallidusArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''The Prince of the Argent Tontine has arranged a special auction for high-end goods'''
* '''All bids must be in ingots and measures'''
* '''Anyone who deposited ingots and measures for the auction must meet Goldentongue in the Hall of Worlds at 20:30 on Friday'''
* '''The auction will take place at 21:30 on Saturday in the Hall of Worlds'''

As the Winter Solstice nears, the sun is low in the sky as a herald steps out of a regio onto the darkening path. Clad in robes embroidered with fanciful script, they are short with golden labyrinthine lines running over their face and neck. Barely pausing, the herald walks briskly towards the Hub to deliver a letter from the [[Callidus|Sovereign-Lord of the City of Chains]]. They inform the civil servant that, following the [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Relics_of_the_Past_(Callidus)|visit]] of ''Multitudo'' last season, the Prince of the Argent Tontinue has dispatched ''Goldentongue'' to host an auction for several treasures.

Though some of the requested items are available, some are sadly impossible to provide. There are several exceptionally important citizens who have been invited: '''Bartimaeus''', of [[Urizen]]; '''Leofric “Leo” d’Apulian''', of [[the League]], and a mystery individual. These three are considered the "''Princes''" of the auction, and may place a bid on an item before any other. These Princes are guaranteed the ability to peruse the items before any other, by means of a prospectus. All bidding is to take place using ingots and measures as the currency, and if any item does not meet its (hidden) reserve price, it will be withdrawn and dispatched back to the vaults of Callidus.

''Goldentongue'' will be in the Hall of Worlds from 20:30 on Friday. They need to meet with the Princes and others who are taking part in the auction. Anyone who submitted ingots and measures [[Volumes_of_forgotten_lore#The_Auction_of_Desire|last season]] will need to meet Goldentongue in the Hall of Worlds to continue their involvement with the auction. The herald will need each patron to identify themselves, the sums they deposited and the item they wished for, so that they can be identified, and given a sigil to grant them access to the auction. Anyone who does not meet Goldentongue in the Hall of Worlds on Friday (or sends a proxy) will not be able to take part in the auction the following day.

''Goldentongue'' will return to the Hall of Worlds from 21:00 on Saturday to start organising the auction and to answer any questions. Though nothing about the lots available, unless from one of the three Princes. The herald of the City of Chains does drop a few hints at two of items available; there is a chance to purchase a rare Moonsilver Scarf from the Palace of the Azure Sky and a key to the Myriad Market of the [[Ephisis|City of Gold and Lead]].

'''OOC Note:''' An early version of this entry discussed an altogether different auction to the one that was previous promised. We have changed this to honour the previous wind and will look to run something resembling the different auction in the future.

====Sashes and Shields====
* '''Multitudo, herald of Callidus, will visit the Hall of Worlds at 18:10 on Friday'''
* '''Multitudo wishes to meet the Champion of Ambition and the ambassadors to both Jarm and the Grendel'''
Finally, Multitudo intends to watch the Mariner play at the [[Opening_ceremonies#The_Anvil_Arena|Anvil Arena]]. They hope that '''Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo''', incumbent [[Ambassador to Jarm]]; '''Starlight Starchaser''', [[Ambassador to the Grendel]]; and '''Eldrid 'Phoenix Flame' Vestardottir''', [[Champion of Ambition]] will accompany them, alongside two other guests, then afterwards they can retire somewhere more private to discuss "''sashes and shields''".

===Fire and Stone (Estavus)===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Office of Fire and Stone'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Iteri, Zenith (at the Crucible of Fate)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 [[white granite]], 20 [[mithril]], 10 rings of ilium, 90 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates the title of ''Architect of Hammers''
* Allows heralds of Estavus to enter the mortal realm at the Office of Fire and Stone regardless of alignment</td></tr>
</table>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Architect of Hammers'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Urizen or Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes or Declaration of Conclave</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Can make a single announcement in the Senate each season, either:
** Repair or upgrade to an existing commission utilising the labour of the House of Iron and Stone. This does not count towards the limited number of commissions available to the Senate.
** Assess a bourse seat that produces mithril or white granite in a region controlled by the Empire, utilising the expertise of the Architects of Iron and Stone and at a cost of five thrones
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversee the Office of Fire and Stone; liaise with heralds of Estavus on behalf of Urizen or the Empire as a whole, depending on appointment method</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Investigated resource'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Produces'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Brilliant Star]]</td><td>Mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Pride of Ikka's Tears]]</td><td>Mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Vigilant Swan]]</td><td>White granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Architects of Iron and Stone have finalised their proposal for a permanent office in Zenith
In the Autumn, [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Sculptured_Ivy_and_Stone_Flowers|draft proposals]] were set forth by the [[Estavus|City of Fire and Stone]] regarding offices built at the [[Zenith#Crucible_of_Fate|Crucible of Fate]]. As per the previous request, the intent of the offices is for them to serve as a legacy for the long and productive partnership between the denizens of the Autumn realm and Edmundo of Damakan's Forge's. A title is to be created to oversee the offices, the Architect of Hammers - but as of the Autumn Equinox, this was as far as planning had progressed. Representatives of the ''Architects of Iron and Stone'' , the faction within the City that put together the proposal, met with the Archmage and associates at the last summit to discuss the exact purpose to which the offices can be put.

Having completed their consultation, the expanded proposal for the Architect's powers is as follows. Once per season, the Architect will be able to [[Senate announcement|announce]] either of the following to the Senate:
{{CaptionedImage|file=EstavusArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
They may invite the ''Coalition of Stone and Struggle'' to repair or upgrade an existing commission. This will not count against the existing limitation on commissions as the labour will be provided by the Coalition, one of the greatest collections of [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Drudges|labourers]] in the ''City of Fire and Stone''. This can be any upgrade - either a standard one or one available due to an opportunity - with the exception that the Coalition refuse to work on projects sponsored or designed by eternals of other realms. Labour costs will need to be provided at the ordinary rate, though it is possible that the Coalition might occasionally request alternate forms of payment.

They may invite the ''Architects of Iron and Stone'' to assess a bourse resource that produces mithril or white granite, which has not already been assessed in this manner, and at the cost of five thrones. The Architects of Iron and Stone will send their representatives to investigate how the resource might be improved. The following season, the heralds will present plans for an upgrade of that resource. This could be a [[Metal_and_stone#Expand_the_Quarry|straightforward plan]] to improve production, or the [[Metal_and_stone#Actual_Ambition|discovery]] of a hitherto-unexploited opportunity for side profit. It is even possible that, on rare occasions, there may be unexpected [[Metal_and_stone#Tempest_Miners|additional opportunities]] associated with the resource. The cost per assessment is set at five thrones until at least the Winter Solstice 388YE. The Architects will assess what profits they have made from the relationship after that point, and may change the price.

Poets light but lamps

2026-04-21T20:54:32Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Garden of the Perfect World */ Spacing out Urizen

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Sumaah]] [[Category:Iron Confederacy]][[Category:Faraden]][[Category:Skoura]][[Category:Tsark]]
<ic>“Do you believe it?”

Tchinua Ganbatar, Liege of the Five Winds, gave a slight snort. “Which part?”

Mistress Karadragha looked down at her papers with a heavy sigh. “At this point? Any of it.”

“I’ll have no words of fear spoken in this meeting, Singhua.” The Liege leaned forwards to refill their cup of tea. “Give me focus, and don’t jump at shadows. What are we informally discussing today?”

“As you say, my Liege.” The Trade Advisor adjusted her spectacles before continuing. “To start with, rumours of the Asaveans involving themselves with the Cinders and other anti-Imperial factions.”

A quiet figure sat off to one side of the meeting room spoke up. “We have no intelligence to confirm the notion, but it would resolve some unanswered questions if it were true. The Cinders are surprisingly well-funded. Even after their condemnation scared off their moderate supporters they still seem to be active across the border. Foreign support would certainly account for that.”

The Liege stroked their chin thoughtfully. “It would also suit the interests of the Asaveans to use Faraden extremists to anger the Empire, especially if they can do it without getting their hands dirty or inviting censure from the Court. What evidence does the Ambassador present?”

“Divinations of the flame, mostly, which means presumably a great deal of interpretation is involved which at best makes them suspect and at worst...”

“Very well. Contact the wizards of the Faces in Fire. They write down all their visions, so see if they have anything that might support this Imperial claim. Let them know we are asking, and they'll see the advantage in being in our good graces. Especially with the matter of the entertainments for my birthday celebrations on the horizon. In the meantime, set your agents prying around any Asavean interests here, especially the quiet ones we might have overlooked. There’s no way that the embassy would be foolish enough to be caught out by this. What next?”

The quiet figure spoke. “Related to the Cinders, the Sansar bounty.”

“Remind me?”

“The Sansar sent three of their family to negotiate for another trade enclave within the Empire. Our agents discovered that one of the three had been radicalised by the Cinders and intended to murder the other two for associating with heretics. Imperial law enforcement identified the guilty party before he struck, and Solongo Sansar has issued a bounty against the Cinders for their actions against her kin. We could potentially convince her to stand down, but it would upset the priesthood and risk emboldening the Cinders further.”

The Liege scowled. “No. The Cinders encouraged kinslaying so let them face the consequences. Tell Solongo that we support her without actually saying the words, and make sure our functionaries at court spread the story as far as they can. We can’t drive the reactionaries away entirely, but we need to keep them isolated. Anyone who can stand up in public and say that they support this kind of treacherous behaviour can reap their rewards.”

The Liege’s companions nodded and made various notes. Mistress Karadragha spoke up again. “I’m hearing on the wind that the Imperial priests are sending dire warnings about Cinders mounting some kind of concerted attacks within Imperial borders. The ambassador didn’t mention it, do we know anything about that?”

The quiet figure responded. “It’s almost certainly true. Gossip and coded messages have been pointing to them planning something big. We haven't been able to identify any targets so far, but their attention being centred within Imperial borders that would account for the lack of information.”

"The ambassador has asked for any information we have," observed Mistress Karadragha in a neutral tone. Both turned their attention to the Liege, expectantly.

There was a long pause before they responded, which they spent carefully stirring a spoonful of honey into their tea. The tinkling of the little silver spoon sounded like distant bells.

“I think it is time for the Cinders to encounter a significant setback.” They drained the dregs of their teacup, winced at the bitterness despite the sweetener. “Retain as much distance as you can, but set your best agents to scouring known Cinder hideouts for information. When you find it, no matter how tenuous, even if it means nothing to you, make sure it reaches the Ambassador. It's the least we can do, and we will just have to trust the Pride and Courage of the Empire to do the rest.”</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Candles flame in the wind.jpg|align=left|caption=Peace is all too often a candleflame in the wind.|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
There are six great powers in the known world whose influence and reach rivals that of the Empire. There also innumerable lesser powers who do not have the might to shake the world, but who are nonetheless important to those with whom they share a border. The ambitions of these nearby nations are no less relevant to the Empire. Sometimes diplomatic relations require in-depth analysis; sometimes there is an opportunity to catch one's breath and let the drama move slowly towards the next crisis point.

There are [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to some of these nations - the [[Iron Confederacy|Suranni]], [[Axos]], the [[Thule]], and [[Faraden]] in particular. Other nations are dealt with by the [[Imperial Consul]]. Sometimes a neighbouring nation focuses on diplomacy with the Empire, and requires an in-depth discussion. The '''[[Death leaves us homesick]]''' wind of fortune covers relations with Axos for example, while '''[[Invited with asperity]]''' focuses on the [[orc|orcs]] of [[Otkodov]]. Sometimes however there is less going on and diplomacy can be part of a wider, more surface, roundup. For example '''[[Each age a lens]]''' covers nearly half a dozen of the orc nations that lie near the Empire.

Here we can read about several neighbouring nations to the Empire not covered in detail elsewhere - the [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and even the more powerful nation of the [[Sumaah Republic]].
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=A Yak.jpg|align=right|caption=The yak of western Faraden are like very hairy oxen but adapted to live at high altitudes and in cold weather. Their wool, milk, and meat is much prized.|width=400}}</div>
==Faraden==
* '''Faraden remains caught between Imperial and Asavean interests
* '''The Liege of Five Winds appears to favour the Empire but there are powerful factions in Faraden that prefer closer ties with Asavea
* '''Faraden and the Empire are at peace, and trade ties between them are being strengthened
The lifeblood of [[Faraden]] is trade, but it is also a country of canny wizards, courageous warriors, and proud (albeit heretical) priests. They currently do not share a border with the Empire, lying beyond the [[Jotun]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that does not stop them sending their caravans to Imperial markets despite the high tariffs they must pay to pass through the lands between. Diplomatic relations between the Court of the Five Winds and the Imperial Senate are changeable - warm one moment cool the next - but it has never come to open warfare. Right now Faraden is squeezed between two competing interests - the Empire on one side and the angry Plenum of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] on the other - and they must walk a knife-edge between the two powerful nations.
{{Nation|nation=[[Faraden]]|port=[[Sea_of_Snow#Pelabuhan|Caitun]]|ambassador=Ebenezer of [[the Marches]]|status=Foreigner}}
The Faraden ambassador to the Empire is ''Mistress Singua Karadragha''. Mistress Singua advises the Court of the Five Winds on all diplomatic matters, and speaks on their behalf to foreign ambassadors. Her attitude to the Empire appears to be cool but professional, and heavily informed by the wishes of the Liege and their court, who seek more opportunities to trade with the Empire.
===General Diplomacy===
* '''Communications between Faraden and the Empire are civil and constructive
* '''The Faraden seek closer trade ties with the Empire as a route to shared prosperity
Ambassador Ebeneezer has raised the matter of the Cinders with Mistress Karadragha. As [[We give the future to the winds#Ashes On The Breeze|previously mentioned]], this sect of violent zealots have been condemned by the Liege of the Five Winds, and the organisation has been driven underground. Yet there is still concern that the Cinders intend to continue their vendetta against the Empire.

Mistress Karadragha confirms that wizards versed in the art of Flame have also offered warnings about the Cinders, but the problem is that their [[divination|divinations]] are fundamentally symbolic and need careful interpretation. No doubt the Empire's adepts of [[Night magic]] have encountered the same challenges. Regardless, the Liege of the Five Winds sees no reason not to share whatever intelligence the Faraden have about the Cinders' operations in the Empire. Several reports have been dispatched by special courier to help Imperial citizens plot the movements of the Cinders.

The Court of the Five Winds is apparently very pleased with the news that work on [[Wild_is_the_wind#Yakholme_Grange|Yakholme Grange]] [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_Yakholme_Grange|has begun]], and that there is a good chance Faraden [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#The_Richest_Wines|trade with Dawn]] may be moving forward. Prosperous trade ties with the Empire strengthen the position of the Liege of the Five Winds, and reinforce their pro-Imperial agenda. The fact that trade with the Empire can be undertaken without the need to trust to ships and boats and the dangers of the [[Sea of Snow]], as compared to trade with the Asaveans, which relies on long shipping routes, means it has particular appeal to the merchant-families of the nation.
===War and the Jotun===
* '''Mistress Karadragha declines to send Faraden mercenaries to fight in the Empire
* '''The Liege of the Five Winds is apparently in negotiation with another power to attack southern Reinos
* '''They propose that the Empire attack the northern regions of the Lasambrian Hills following the Winter Solstice
Ambassador Ebeneezer has clearly presented the idea that the Empire and Faraden could form an alliance against the Jotun. The current truce with the Jotun is the result of a treaty, but as Mistress Karadragha has [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#The_Hills_of_Reinos|already said]], that treaty is due to be renewed or renegotiated at the Summer Solstice. The situation has not changed; Faraden cannot afford to go to war with the Jotun, and as near as the Court of Five Winds can tell the Jotun would prefer to focus their efforts on fighting the Empire. The Ambassador's suggestion that Faraden troops might fight against the [[Druj]] or the [[vallorn|peculiar plant monsters]] that infest parts of the Empire are interesting, but unappealing; the distances are too great and the dangers are too unknown.

However, it may be that the Faraden and the Empire could both get what they want. The [[Iron Confederacy]] has reached out to the Court of the Five Winds and informed them that the Suranni intend to conquer southern [[Reinos]]. This is not the ideal situation, in that it swaps Jotun control of their trade routes to the Empire for Suranni control; but that is still preferable to the stranglehold the barbarian orcs have over them.

If the Empire is serious about a joint effort, then the Military Council could dispatch a force to attack [[Reinos#Ribeira|Riberia]] and [[Reinos#Pedreira|Pedreira]] after the Winter Solstice. A powerful force would be able to smash through the defences there and claim both regions. At the same time, the Iron Confederacy will be attacking in the south, catching Jotun defenders between the hammer and the anvil.

There are further benefits to the Faraden of course. If a serious force of soldiers were attacking the hills of Reinos they would be in a much better position to renegotiate or even abandon their treaty with the Jotun. The benefits to the Empire are less clear - but Mistress Karadragha points out that control of Pedreira would give the Empire control of the [[white granite]] quarry at [[Reinos#Cantera_Balanka|Cantera Balanka]] as well as protecting the entire western border of [[Segura]] from future Jotun invasion.
===Faith and Flame===
* '''The Gatekeepers have provided a dose of true liao to the Faraden priest Boorra Talighar of the Silver Tree
* '''The Temple of the High Flames will receive a true consecration during the Winter Solstice
* '''There are concerns that Asavean assassins may try to disrupt the ceremony
* '''If the consecration is successful, it will end opportunities for Asavean religion to spread in Faraden
Last season ''Boorra Talighar of the Silver Tree'', priest of the Five Flames, [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#Flames_and_Faith|petitioned the Synod]] for a dose of [[liao#True Liao|True Liao]]. Their intent was to use the true liao to create a [[Consecration#True_Liao|true consecration]] of the [[Auras_of_Pride#Partner_of_Greatness|Flame of Honour]]; a powerful aura to help anchor the true faith of Faraden in the face of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] syncretism. During the Equinox, the [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]] met and discussed the matter, and ultimately [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Doses_of_True_Liao|chose to provide]] one of the seven doses available to them. With the particular aid of '''Nisha Strazcovich''', a former Gatekeeper of Pride who Ebeneezer notes as being instrumental in ensuring the dose was available, the Ambassadors office ensured the true liao was safely delivered to Faraden.

During the Winter Solstice, a grand ceremony marking the end of one year and the beginning of another will take place at the ''Temple of the High Flames'', the most prestigious seat of the Faraden faith. Mistress Karadragha believes representatives of all the [[On_Faraden_faith#The Priest Families|priestly families]] of Faraden will attend, whatever their individual attitudes to the Empire. it is, to put it mildly, a big deal for the faithful of Faraden. No outside priests will be present as this is a ceremony for the Faraden. The Faraden Ambassador, however, has let the Ambassador know that the Liege of the Five Wind has ensured that warriors loyal to them will be present to protect the festivities. There is some concern that the Asaveans might attempt to disrupt the ceremony; there are rumours of assassin-priests of the twin-gods of vengeance, Tlangg and Sanit being present in Faraden.

Assuming the ceremony goes off without a hitch, it will create a potent site of pilgrimage for the faithful of Faraden. The Temple of the High Flames is to the Faraden what the Basilica of Seven Doors is to the Highborn, or the marshes of the Sovennan are to the Winterfolk - a central location sacred to all denominations of their faith. There is no doubt that the true aura will serve as a powerful prophylactic against the influence of Asavean priests, sufficient to put an end to the spread of their influence in the western nation.

It is, of course, illegal for Imperial citizens to trade true liao to citizens of foreign nations; there is no suggestion that either the Liege of the Five Winds or the priest families of Faraden will offer any payment for the liao. All they can offer in return is the profound gratitude of those who take Pride in [[On Faraden faith|their faith]], and who welcome this return to the true values of their own historic religion.
===Fire Fighters===
* '''Zealous crusaders from Faraden have attempted to destroy the Azure Chorus, the docks at Fisk, and the docks at Meade'''
* '''Thanks to prompt warnings from the Imperial Synod two of the three attacks have been thwarted'''
* '''The Jotun have restored the Docks at Meade but made cosmetic changes'''
* '''These attacks have been widely condemned within Faraden'''
In the days following the Autumn Equinox, hasty warnings are carried to Wintermark, the Marches, and the Brass Coast. '''Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum''', the Cardinal of Pride, has issued a dire warning, backed by a greater majority of the Assembly of Nine: the Cinders, a violent group of ultra-conservative Faraden who decry the Empire and all its citizens as irredeemable heretics, have infiltrated the Empire, and intend to wreak havoc upon the innocent. The three targets – the docks at both Fisk and Meade, and the Azure Chorus – are of obvious symbolic value, each one serving as a site where the people of the Empire and the people of Faraden can meet in a spirit of solidarity and cooperation. Further hue and cry is raised in Marches specifically, as the statement of '''Father Edmund''' warns the people of Meade that the attackers have already infiltrated the city. Likewise, the Freeborn Assembly upheld a statement from '''Dayanara i Cabeza i Erigo''' warning of the planned attack in Kahraman. Whichever statement people hear first, the warnings are the same: be Vigilant. Lives are at stake.

The situation in Fisk is well contained. A local magistrate, already visiting the town to try an unrelated case, moves quickly to deputise nearby citizens and take control of the Market Hall. While the Faraden workers there are initially outraged by the accusations that there may be violent fanatics among their number, the outrage turns to panic when one of the porters draws a knife and slashes the magistrate’s face. What follows is a brief, ugly brawl, as other infiltrators from the Cinders reveal themselves and attempt to break out and flee. An effort is made to take suspects alive for trial and questioning, but comes to nothing. Even after the Cinders are disarmed, they do nothing but hurl abuse at their captors and their fellow Faraden alike, refusing to cooperate. Aside from vague hints that there are more of them in the Empire and that there will be more violence to follow, they give nothing useful, and are executed on the spot.

Chaos, unfortunately, reigns at the Azure Chorus. The densely packed tents of visiting pilgrims make conducting an orderly investigation all but impossible. Rumours spread through the camp like wildfire, leaving the Courageous and Vigilant citizens of the Brass Coast unable to take their targets by surprise. Some fear that the Cinders may simply flee, but the truth turns out to be much darker. A visiting priest comes running from the Parador of Wind and Flame, shouting that some Faraden pilgrims have barred the doors and begun massacring everyone inside, screaming condemnations against the “lovers of false flames.” The scene is set for tragedy, but nobody present is minded to accept such an outcome. Faraden and Freeborn alike take up arms and storm the Parador in defence of the priests and pilgrims trapped inside, fighting room to room and shedding blood to defend one another. There are many deaths, but fewer than might have been expected, given the grim circumstances.

Things go equally badly in Meade, where the situation is complicated by the the arrival of the Jotun. There is some question among those who stay behind as to whether or not to alert the Jotun to the plans of the Cinders. Would passing on such information be providing treasonous aid to an enemy, or acting with Vigilance to undermine a different enemy?

Unfortunately, the Cinders use the chaos of the invasion to attack before anyone can make a decision one way or the other. The dock front quickly descends into chaos as the Cinders fire the pier and try to murder the Faraden and Marcher merchants working there. Initially stunned by the madness, a Jotun patrol quickly composes themselves and within minutes Jotun and Marchers are fighting side-by-side to take the Cinders down.

At first the Jotun assume that the assassins are under some terrible Night magic curse. Three Cinders were captured alive during the attack - once the Jotun discover there was no magic involved they are appalled. A jarl is summoned and after the briefest trial imaginable, the three men are taken out into the bay and summarily drowned. It is apparently the worst death imaginable as far as the Jotun are concerned.

Once the Cinders have been dealt with, the Jarl gives orders to the Jotun for the docks to be restored. The work is done quickly, most of the docks can be salvaged and materials are shipped in to replace the parts that are too far gone. By the start of the Winter Solstice, the dock front is almost as good as new. Almost... because the Jotun artisans take it on themselves to add a monolithic stone carved in the likeness of an orc warrior - not the Jarl but an idol of [[Elite_Jotun_troops#Skjaldir|Skjaldir]], one of the Jotun faðir.

When word reaches the Faraden Embassy, the response is quick and firm: an absolute and total condemnation of the Cinders' actions. The Liege of the Five Winds had previously spoken out against the Cinders after their failed attempt on the life of the Champion of Vigilance, but this has ignited fury across all of Faraden society. Even conservative thinkers who have never truly reconciled with the differences of faith between the Empire and Faraden are forced to publicly acknowledge that this has gone too far. The Liege of the Five Winds makes a speech before their court, committing to personally pay for any repairs to the sites of the attack, a gesture that earns widespread praise for its even-handed measure of Pride, Prosperity and Justice.

Embassy staff supply one slightly testy clarification to public perceptions of the Cinders: they are not 'Justice cultists', any more than a devout citizen of the Empire is an 'Ambition cultist'. The Cinders follow the Five Flames, just as the people of the Empire follow the Imperial Way. The Cinders are not bad because they follow a specific Virtue, they are bad because they are violent xenophobes who decry the possibility of coexistence and mutual Prosperity in favour of a chauvinistic vision of total cultural purity. Excessive dwelling on religious differences is what led to this problem in the first place, and the last thing anyone needs is someone stoking the flames.

====Raking Over The Ashes====
* '''The infiltrators in Fisk, Meade and the Azure Chorus were not the only Cinders present within the Empire.'''
* '''The attackers will cause further havoc unless they are prevented from doing so.'''
* '''Questions remain over how the group were able to acquire their supplies.'''
In the aftermath, cooler heads begin to dig deeper in both of the locations still controlled by the Empire. What emerges in each case is a similar story. The Cinders arrived as individuals or small groups over the course of the last year, staying and quietly blending in with their countryfolk. They did not disguise their conservative religious views, but did not speak of their violent aims to anyone outside of the conspiracy. The reasons for this are not hard to determine. Not only has the Liege of the Five Winds condemned the sect for their extremism, but many Faraden actively disagree with their attacks on people who did not harm them first. It seems that the Cinders consider other Faraden who deal with the ‘lovers of False Flames’ to be just as bad as heretics themselves. The Cinders are not, it seems, especially good at blending in with the people around them.

Ambassador Ebeneezer's request to Mistress Karadragha has borne fruit with a series of missives detailing what Faraden investigators were able to determine from their own efforts to suppress the sect. In conjunction with Imperial scouts, the two nations are able to put together a list of targets. It seems that the groups already dealt with are not the only ones active within Imperial borders. It's clear that the Cinders have made good use of the resources provided to them - although there is some question about precisely who their rich patrons are. Rumour suggests it is agents of the Asavean plenum who have been funding the Cinders, wielding their hatred of the Empire as a weapon.

===Wildfire (Conjunctions)===
* '''The Cinders have been spotted moving to attack the House of Guerra, the Anvil Library Scriptorium, and Benson's Orchard.'''
* '''Imperial heroes have the opportunity to act before the Cinders can cause any serious harm.'''
The Faraden reports include coded letters that speak of Cinders agents spying out "the Orchard" in the Marches and it is a relatively simple matter to deduce that this is probably a reference to [[Pruning_shears#Benson's_Orchard|Benson's Orchard]], the memorial to [[Paragons and exemplars|exemplar]] of [[Vigilance]] [[Known exemplars#Joshua Benson|'Major' Joshua Benson]]. From the other reports the Faraden are able to provide, it becomes clear the last Cinders are planning to assault the [[Armarius_of_the_Anvil_Library#The_Library_Scriptorium|Anvil Library Scriptorium]] and the [[Hand of Guerra#House of Guerra|House of Guerra]].

By any analysis, these attacks are ultimately doomed to failure. The aura at Benson's Orchard was created with true liao, and there is no way that the Cinders have access to that most valuable substance. The Anvil Library Scriptorium sits in a fortified compound to protect against assaults from agents of the Whisper Gallery, and the House of Guerra is in Calvos town itself, surrounded by Kohan and Corsairs on shore leave. None of these sites are in danger of being destroyed. However, the Cinders are heavily armed and prepared to fight to the death. If they are allowed to work their will unmolested, they will kill a great many people and cause a lot of damage before they are stopped. Fortunately, with the advance warning provided by Faraden to Ambassador Ebeneezer, and the results of Imperial investigations, there is enough notice for the prognosticators to find conjunctions of the [[Sentinel Gate]] that heroes may be able to intervene and prevent loss of life.

====Burn The Books (Sarvos)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to destroy the Anvil Library Scriptorium'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* '''The ''Armarius of the Anvil Library'' is responsible for protecting the Scriptorium'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''

The Anvil Library stands dedicated to the cause of Wisdom and learning across the Empire, fighting back against the terrible losses inflicted by Emperor Nicovar and his book-burning ways. This cause elicits no sympathy from the Cinders, who decry Wisdom as the False Virtue of Doubt. They would love nothing more than to burn the books and massacre the scribes. The mercenaries engaged in the defence of the compound are trusted veterans, but even one enemy with a lit match could wreak havoc if they broke through.

The main group of Cinders are approaching fast along Vintner's Way in Foracci. It is the responsibility of '''Ricardo Glostari di Sarvos''', the Armarius of the Anvil Library, to cut them off before any damage can be done.

====Sever The Hand (Madruga)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to destroy the House of Guerra'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* '''The ''Hand of Guerra'' is responsible for protecting the House'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''
The House of Guerra stands as a testament to the Empire's commitment to taking care of those in need of shelter. Operated by a well-paid staff noted for their practicality and compassion, this thoroughly benign institution seems an odd target for the religiously-motivated Cinders. Things come into focus when the other duty of the Hand of Guerra is pointed out. Spreading the philosophy of Guerra is not especially controversial in the Empire, but rumours have persisted for a long time of her connection to the False Virtue of Anarchy, which the Cinders despise as much as any Imperial citizen. While the general consensus is that these rumours are historical fabrications, it is doubtful that the Cinders would listen if anyone tried to explain to them.

If the attackers are to be intercepted, the easiest place would be along the Corsair's Road in Calvos Sound. It is the responsibility of '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''', the Hand of Guerra, to prevent any harm coming to their charges.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Orchard One.jpg|align=left|caption=Brother Martin Orchard is a sometimes controversial, well respected monk from Pickham Monastery. in Upwold|width=400}}</div>
====Silence The Bell (Upwold)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to desecrate Benson's Orchard'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* ''' ''Martin Orchard'', who carried out the consecration, is responsible for protecting the memorial'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''
'Major' Joshua Benson is an aspirational figure for many dedicants of Vigilance, especially in the Marches. A man without flashy miracles and tall tales to his name, he simply defended his community with absolute and unwavering commitment. Jackie Longshanks, the Beater who was able to sneak up on the Cinders to eavesdrop on their plans, cited the Bellringer as an inspiration for her deeds. The Vigilant pilgrims coming to soak up the aura that surrounds the exemplar's resting place have taken up arms and are ready to defend the holy site to the death, but such a fight would be a bloodbath. If the Cinders should spill blood on such a sacred memorial, the response from irate pilgrims of Vigilance would not bear thinking about.

As the Cinders move to attack Benson's Orchard, they must first move through the area of Tower March known as Benson's Bawn. It is the responsibility of '''Martin Orchard''', the priest who consecrated Benson's Orchard, to thwart their malice before it can strike.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Delicacies.jpg|caption=The Faraden are proud of their own fine victuals, but also keen to bring the best food and drink from around the world to their tables..|align=right|width=450}}</div>

===Days Of Wine And Mooncheese===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Moonsong Market'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[The Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]] or [[The Barrens#Murderdale|Murderdale]], [[the Barrens]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 [[weirwood]] and 30 [[white granite]], 180 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment for farms in the Barrens by one
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Moonsong Reeve''
* Increases the taxation raised from trade with Faraden by 4 Thrones each season
* Significantly increases the number of Faraden travelling to and visting Dawn</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: LightGreen;">'''Moonsong Reeve'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees Moonsong Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To serve as a liaison between the Faraden visiting Moonsong Market and the people of Dawn; to encourage Faraden merchants to trade with the nation; to smooth over any disputes; to make decisions based on any opportunities related to Moonsong Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' If the Moonsong Reeve is not yeofolk, the great work benefits will be halved</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Moonsong Cheese'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 crowns</td><td>Three common mooncheese and one rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 crowns</td><td>Six common mooncheese and two rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>27 crowns</td><td>Nine common mooncheese and three rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 crowns</td><td>Twelve common mooncheese and four rare mooncheese</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A consortium in Faraden has established a potential deal to trade luxury food in the Barrens.'''
* '''Despite an attempt by the Cinders to sabotage this plan, the actions of Imperial Citizens have demonstrated that Faraden merchants are safe to trade with the Empire.'''

Even as further violence mars relationships between the Empire and Faraden, the siren song of commerce seeks to bring people closer together. Last season, merchants of the Sansar family came to Anvil to speak with the people of Dawn about setting up a trade enclave in the Barrens. Representing a coalition of smaller families, they sought to exploit the opportunities presented by providing rare goods to the eastern Empire and, in so doing, to raise their standing back home.

While the trade talks themselves seem to have gone well, confused reports from Anvil speak of three of the Sansar cousins attending but only two returning, and of drawn blades and plotted murders. When the surviving merchants returned home they apparently brought a tale of horrific treachery: the third of their party had been corrupted by the rage of the Cinders, and plotted to murder them on their journey back to Faraden! Only by the swift action of Imperial law enforcement was this plan foiled. The intention of the Cinders was clear, to scare merchants away from dealing with the Empire. Yet this plan has backfired spectacularly, as the Sansar have not only publicly recommitted to building closer ties with their Imperial friends, but have posted a bounty on all members of the Cinders in vengeance for their heinous acts.

Still, bloodshed makes for poor conversation over the negotiating table, so discussions with the Imperial civil service focus on business. The core of the deal is a pleasingly symmetrical arrangement: Dawnish cloth for Faraden cloth, Dawnish wine for Faraden cheese. Already Seneschals and vintners across Dawn are racing to discover the best wine pairings for the valuable Faraden Mooncheese, a development that is filling the cheesemakers of Faraden with Pride and confidence. There was also an unsurprising interest in purchasing Mithril, for which the Empire’s voracious appetite is well-known.

The plans drawn up off the back of these proposals are, in their most basic nature, similar to the Firewind Market in Holberg. The proposed Moonsong Market, named in honour of the famed Mooncheese, would take 30 wains of weirwood, 30 wains of white granite, and 180 Crowns in labour costs. The Sansar have requested that such a market be built in either [[The Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]] or [[The Barrens#Murderdale|Murderdale]] to be close to the well-defended centres of civilisation. Once constructed, the Moonsong Market would act as a [[great work]] increasing investment in farms across the Barrens. It would also create an [[Imperial title]] - ''Moonsong Reeve'' - that would be responsible for representing Dawn in any negotiations with the Faraden merchants, and smoothing over any issues that arise with their trade in Dawn.

There is one other matter - one that the Faraden are unaware of. As an economic position, the people of Dawn expect the ''Moonsong Reeve'' to be [[Yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]]. If the title is held by a noble, it will result in the benefits of the great work being halved as Dawnish farmers look askance at the Faraden merchants and their association with a noble demeaning the glory of Dawn.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorIronConfederacy.png|caption='''Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo''', Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==The Iron Confederacy==
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
* '''They have recently moved a major military force into the islands off the coast of Feroz
{{Nation|nation=The [[Iron Confederacy]]|port=[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]|status=Foreigner|ambassador=Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo}}
The Suranni lie to the south of the Empire. They are a secretive nation, bound up in tradition and suspicion. While they are currently at peace with the Empire, even accepting merchants and traders into their lands, they are certainly not ''friends''. Recent events have seen them, like the [[Faraden]], caught between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the pro-slavery Freedom Accord. Yet where Faraden feels it must play a delicate balancing act, the Suranni Dukes are more confident in their power and prepared to play Imperial and Asavean interests off against each other.

The Suranni ambassador to the Empire is ''Baroness Katerine Lavasse of Meore'', who operates from the Tour Lavasse in Chaubrette, a territory unknown to Imperial citizens that apparently lies to the west of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]]. A noble [[naga]], she replaced the significantly more dogmatic Jeanne de Hibernat, a High Priestess of the Suranni god [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith, Maiden of the Forge]]. She has already indicated that she is very much more pragmatic than her predecessor and more interested in compromise. She still reports to the Dukes of the Iron Confederacy, however, and so her apparent goodwill toward the Empire cannot be relied upon.
===Suranni Pleasantries===
* '''General pleasantries and diplomatic matters have been touched on
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
Ambassador Tethros has apparently informed Baroness Katerine that the Empire intends to attack [[Skallahn]]. This receives a slightly mixed response; the Suranni ambassador is not herself familiar with northern [[Jotun]] lands. Her response is to congratulate the Empire on seeking to conquer [[orc]] lands, and indicates that the news was met with a great deal of interest among some of the more martial Dukes.

The matter of Faraden was also raised, and Baroness Katerine, perhaps a little surprisingly, agrees that Asavean influence over the neighbouring nation is less than ideal. While the Suranni are capable of keeping the agents of the Plenum at arms' length, and ensuring they gain benefits from their association without becoming tainted, they are less confident that the Faraden can achieve the same.

In somewhat delicate tones, Baroness Katerine writes that the Suranni obviously have their own relationship with Faraden - distinct from the Empire - and their own trade routes. They are exploring their own avenues to reduce Asavean influence, but at this time they are reticent about collaborating with the Empire. With the best will in the world, the Empire's tendency to - no offence - blunder in like a drunk in a glassworks, do not predispose the Suranni to share too much at this time. If the Ambassador can be more specific about proposals for joint action with regard to the Faraden that do '''not''' risk souring the Suranni relationship with the Asaveans unnecessarily, then the Dukes are certainly interested to discuss those plans.

With regard to trade, the Baroness is generally positive about trade with the port of [[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]] and entirely sees where the Ambassador is coming from when they talk of more secure overland trade routes. Suranni merchants have long seen the town of [[Feroz#Fontargenta|Bramar]] in Feroz as the ideal destination for those looking to trade with the Empire. From there the more adventurous could travel to [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]], or even further north across the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep#The_Spider's_Dream|Spider's Dream]] bridge. However, as the Suranni understand it a recent natural disaster has severed easy trade routes between Feroz and the rest of the Empire. Is there any news of when these will be restored? That would likely be the first step toward securing a commitment to a trade [[ministry]] in the Empire.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kobol.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Kobol the Warrior, Maiden of Battle|Kobol the Warrior]] is the uncompromising [[Suranni pantheon|Iron Confederacy god]] of warriors and battle.|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Cazar and the ''Wings of Kobol''===
* '''The Iron Confederacy has smashed the Children of Wrecks in Feroz
* '''Suranni forces have claimed the Cazar Straits for the Confederacy
* '''The Dukes intend to attack Free Landing after the Spring Equinox if the Empire has not dealt with the Wreckers by then
* '''While no treaty has been agreed, Freeborn citizens are free to leave the islands and ships from Feroz can pass through the waters
The Iron Confederacy has invaded [[Feroz]]; or rather they have attacked the Children of Wrecks on the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]]. As laid out in the '''[[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|Red skies]]''' wind of war, the ''Wings of Kobol'' [[navy]] brought two Suranni [[army|armies]] across the border from Kalino and smashed the Wreckers' grasp on the island chain. Those pirates and raiders who were not defeated in battle, or captured and executed, have been forced to flee. Most have gone north to [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]], but some have apparently chosen to quit the [[Bay of Catazar]] altogether. The Cazar Straits are now under the control of the Iron Confederacy.

Following the attack and "liberation" of the islands, Baroness Katerine delivers a message from the Suranni Dukes. It has been too long since the pirates invoked the power of [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Dumon]] to help them seize the islands to the north of Arbonne, which they have been using as a base to attack the coast of the Iron Confederacy. Over a year ago they launched a raid against [[bay of Catazar#Axiom Prison|Axiom Prison]] and released many dangerous prisoners including a large number of corrupt wizards. While there has been some diplomatic attempt to find common ground for a joint effort against the Children, that have come to nothing. With this decisive action, the Iron Confederacy has shown that it will not tolerate criminals and pirates threatening their borders.

Diplomatic channels were used during the Autumn Equinox to inform Imperial officials of the Suranni intentions. During that time there was discussion of a treaty, but after due consideration the Dukes believe that it is too soon to commit to any formal agreement while there is still a major Children of Wrecks presence just north of their lands - by which they pointedly mean their new holdings in the Cazar Straits. The work done at the Autumn Equinox by Baronets ''Marquette Lavasse'' and ''Vauquelin Lavasse'', during which they met informally with multiple Imperial luminaries have indicated that there is certainly a foundation for a formal treaty to secure relations between the Confederacy and the Empire; but the time to discuss it is once the immediate threat is ended.

Baroness Katerine appears to be aware that the Empire planned their own assault on the Children of Wrecks following the Autumn Equinox, but apparently expected it to be aimed at Free Landing. Her missive lays out that the Dukes plan to take a season ensuring that the last corrupt elements are removed from the islands of Cazar. Then, if the Empire has not already dealt with them, they will attack the Wreckers in Free Landing with an eye towards dealing with them as they have their "friends" in the south. It is important for Ambassador Tethros to understand that if the ''Wings of Kobol'' are called on to free the Madrugan islands, they will likewise be considered part of the Iron Confederacy. After that, though, there will be plenty of time to discuss how to proceed. In particular, she wishes to commend [[Senator]] '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''' whose passionate words went some way toward reassuring the Dukes that the Empire was in the process of dealing with the Pirates of Dumon and should be given a little space to do so.

The Baroness does however reiterate that as far as the Dukes are concerned, they have taken enemy territory away from criminals who made war on the Suranni people. The islands of Cazar are now ''theirs'', by right of conquest. This, says Katerine, is not a matter for debate - the facts speak for themselves. The same will be true if they are forced to deal with the pirates of Free Landing.

However, in recognition of the historic presence of the people of [[the Brass Coast]] here, there are certain humanitarian concessions the Dukes have instructed Baroness Katerine to lay out. Any Imperial citizen that was trapped in the Cazar Straits when they were conquered by the Grendel, and then seized by the Pirates of Dumon, is absolutely free to leave; indeed they are encouraged to depart. Suranni ships stand ready to repatriate them to the mainland, and there will be no bar to Freeborn vessels that wish to come collect their countryfolk.

The Iron Confederacy is also open to suggestions about how best to arrange matters with regard to Imperial ships leaving or entering Feroz. Obviously, with control of the Cazar Straits, the Suranni could potentially cut the Freeborn territory off from the Bay of Catazar entirely. There is no reason for them to do so at the moment; indeed Baroness Katerine expresses the hope that recent successes with trade can be built on to encourage Imperial merchants to visit the Straits. This means that there will be no disadvantage to the Freeborn busy rebuilding their homes in the ruined territory from the Suranni.

The [[Civil Service|civil service]] advise that this communication should not be taken entirely at face value. Reading between the lines, it seems that Baroness Katerine isn't ''completely'' happy with the decision of the Dukes. Over the last few years, she has demonstrated a preference for a more nuanced, diplomatic approach to relations with the Empire. At the end of the day though, it is the Dukes who make the decisions. The rulers of the Iron Confederacy are [[naga]], and while they can be [[Naga#Subtle|subtle]], they are still [[Naga#Passionate|passionate]] and [[Naga#Avaricious|avaricious]].

The proposal of a treaty once the Children of Wrecks are finally beaten seems genuine, and it is possible that one of the reasons the Suranni are not rolling straight into Free Landing is to give Ambassador Tethros a chance to put forward a proposal of their own.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Watt of Lambrook.jpg|caption='''Watt of Lambrook''', Minister of Historical Research|align=left|width=300}}</div>

===Marko and the March of History===
* '''Marko Siwarsbairn is ''still'' in the Iron Confederacy'''
The saga of Marko Siwarsbairn continues to drag on. Following the [[Bedight_in_veils#An_Imperial_Historian_in_the_Baronial_Court|dispute]] over the [[historical research]] the [[Wintermark]] scholar had been compiling on Iron Confederacy military history, the Ambassador passed along words from the [[Minister of Historical Research]] '''Watt Lambrook''': "''My researcher is correct that I hold the right to view such reports first. However, since this was understandably not known at the time I will oblige that this once you may also read the report Marko has written before he leaves.''"

Baroness Katerine thanks the Minister for their words, and understands that this is a concession. However as the Winter Solstice draws closer it seems Marko has ''still'' not returned from the Iron Confederacy. A late message to the Imperial embassy indicates that on reading the Siwarsbairn Report it was clear to the Baroness that there were several significant errors and misconceptions in the document. Rather than suggest Marko scrap their hard work and start again, Baroness of Meore has offered the assistance of some of her own staff to correct those errors. She is confident that the report will be much more useful as an artifact of truth, rather than something riddled with errors. She anticipates that unless anything else goes wrong, Marko will be safely back in the Empire with a well-researched document in time for the Spring Equinox.

The Minister need not worry; Baroness Katerine is more than happy to continue to serve as gracious host to Marko Siwarsbairn, and supply the support they need at her own expense. It is the least she can do as a student of history herself, committed to increasing understanding between her nation and the Empire. She also mentions that the gods clearly inspired Marko to make their errors; if they had set off from Meore on schedule this season they would doubtless have ended up caught in the events unfolding in Arbonne.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Dumon.PNG|caption=Dumon the Liar, the Wicked One|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Unfolding in Arbonne===
* '''Arbonne has been subject to a serious Winter curse'''
* '''The priests of the Veiled Shrine claim an oracle has implicated Imperial citizens in the curse'''
* '''Baroness Katerine asks the Ambassador to encourage Imperial citizens to track down those responsible'''
Shortly after the Spring Equinox, the dukedom of Kalino - which the Suranni call Arbonne - was struck with a [[I_wish_you_would#Wicked curses|blight]] that withered crops and saw vermin multiply across the territory. The priests of [[Suranni_pantheon#Kavol,_the_Veiled_King|Kavol]] quickly identified that this was a [[curse]] drawn down by wicked sorcerers working with the aid of the [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Lying God]]. The curse ran its course, and despite some food shortages in Arbonne, the worst appeared to be over. This assumption was, unfortunately, premature.

Just after the Autumn Equinox another curse fell on Arbonne, and this was orders of magnitude worse than the blight that struck in Spring. The first sign was unseasonably bad weather than ruined crops before they could be gathered; it was swiftly followed by a wave of sickness that incapacitated the weak and the strong alike. Then, on the night of the first new moon, demonic angels of Dumon emerged from the shadows bent on murder and corruption. The worst of them took on the forms of dead orcs, the Lasambrians who had once squatted in the hills here. Their witchcraft brought more terror and destruction to the people and serfs of Arbonne. Worse, among their numbers were revenants that appeared in the form of dead Suranni and even in a few cases what looked to be Imperial knights.

This was again seen as a sign that the gods were angry with the Duke of Arbonne, but again the Priests of Kavol investigated the matter and determined that it was nothing more than another terrible curse from the servants of Dumon. This time, though, this reassurance has done little to quell discontent in the territory. Crops fail from time to time, as a test from the gods, but this unspeakable infestation of demons and revenants is an entirely different matter. The position of the Duke of Arbonne is extremely shaky; if a third curse strikes the territory they will have little choice but to step aside in favour of one of their heirs. Baroness Katerine confidently paints the heirs to the current Duke as competent, wise people but there is an edge to her words that suggests she is not entirely confident about what she is saying.
<div style="float: right; max-width: 200px; margin-right: 10px;">{{HoverImage|Seven Locks 2.jpg|Master of Locks.png}}</div>
<div style="float: right; max-width: 200px; margin-right: 10px;">{{HoverImage|WhisperGal004.png|WhisperGal005.png}}</div>
While the curse is bad, it would normally be a matter for the Iron Confederacy to resolve. Unfortunately, there is an unlooked for wrinkle here. Among the priests of Kavol there are some sects charged with specific duties within the Confederacy. The priests of the Veiled Shrine are charged to root out heretics and servants of Dumon who consort with demons. The Veiled God has sent a sign to them, warning them that while the curse comes from the servants of the God of Corruption, they could not have achieved this terrible working without aid. Specifically, through oracles and visionary dreams, Kavol has given a warning that the power to place the curse came from the Empire.

Baroness Katerine is not a fool; she doesn't believe the Empire has cursed Arbonne. There's simply no evidence of it. Unfortunately, the priests of the Veiled Shrine are adamant that there is Imperial entanglement in this event. She asks that the Ambassador do whatever it takes to find out who has provided the Hand of Dumon with the wherewithal to lay a curse of this magnitude on Arbonne. Given that working with the Hand is a crime in the Empire, she presumes that Imperial justice likewise has a vested interest in tracking down whoever it is that is supporting these monstrous sorcerers. The Dukes cannot countenance Imperial support for the Hand of Dumon, and if it comes out that Imperial citizens were flouting the laws made by the Senate in this regard it would shake confidence in those who pointed to the agreement as a positive step in international relations. Which includes Baroness Katerine of course.

Obviously, the one thing every Imperial citizen can be '''absolutely certain''' of, is that "the Veiled God" definitely did not tell the Iron Confederacy anything, ''given they don't actually exist''. However they note that Baroness Katerine refers to "angels" more than once, which is either a [[Astronomancy#Tulpas|tulpa]] or much more likely, a [[herald]] of some [[eternal]] that is up to no good. If it is the latter, the finger of suspicion must point at either [[Basileia]] or the [[Whisper Gallery]], either of which would sell the Empire out in a heartbeat. The City of Locks trades in treachery, espionage and secrets, while the Shadow Courtiers are literally obsessed with secrets. On paper, it is more likely to be the Princess of Weirs; since the Concilium of the Perjured Throne is under enmity, the only way they could be mixed up in all this is if that was being subverted by members of the Conclave.

It's unfortunate that the Empire does not have a workable map of Arbonne, so rituals such as [[Eye of the High Places]] will not be able to find anything useful. From the description, however, it seems that the curse might have been the result of a potent Winter magic ritual of high magnitude - at least eightieth and perhaps higher.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconSumaah.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Sumaah Republic==
* '''The Sumaah Republic is an empire devoted to an orthodox interpretation of the Way'''
* '''The Sumaah Republic remain allies of the Empire in the Liberty Pact
The [[Sumaah Republic]] are simultaneously allies of, and rivals to, the Empire. Their shared practice of the Way both provide them with common ground, and divides them over questions of orthodoxy. As founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]], their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world. In gratitude for [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#A_Bond_Between_Sailors|major aid]] from the Empire in repulsing an Asavean assault against the port of [[Foreign_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]], the Sumaah have committed to sharing a dose of [[Liao#True Liao|true liao]] with the Empire every season "''until the Plenum falls and the Way is spread to the Archipelago''." Relations with the grateful Sumaash, which have been bumpy in the past, are now better than ever.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sumaah Republic]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sumaah_Republic_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]]|ambassador=Accalon of [[Highguard]]}}
The Sumaah ambassador to the Empire is ''Oxtitocszin'', who holds the rank of Censor of wood, metal and stone and is a member of the High House of Pride (the Sumaah equivalent of the Pride Assembly, but with significantly more responsibility and leeway to pursue foreign diplomacy). They advise not just the Sumaah ''präster'', but the House of the People (the Sumaah equivalent of the Imperial Senate). By all accounts they are an even-handed, level-headed individual, and a devout practitioner of the Way.
===Liberty===
* '''The Sumaah are sending a representative to the Liberty Pact meeting'''
The Sumaah are, of course, sending an emissary to the [[Liberty Pact]] meeting. ''Oxtitocszin'' indicates the Sumaah attitude to the Pact has not shifted. They still intend to propose the amendment to the pact [[Drowned_in_tears#Liberty_Pact|mentioned last season]], to centre [[the Way]] in the approach of the Liberty Pact to defeating the evil of slavery. Apparently, the Sumaah representatives to the Pact are a little surprised that the Empire are not raising any amendments to the Pact themselves, but appreciate that this may simply be because the status quo serves their interests more effectively.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Accalon5901.jpg|caption='''Accalon of Felix's Watch''', Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|align=right|width=350}}</div>
Ambassador Accalon's words relating to the removal of Axos from the pact has not inspired them to revisit the matter but they wish the Ambassador to be apprised that they will vote with the Commonwealth on this matter. Unfortunately, Sumaah is not in a position to launch a full-scale invasion of the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. Were there any chance that such an attack might be practical, they would already be undertaking it. Oxtitocszin gently suggests that even if they were holding off for some reason, the Ambassador's proposal that the Empire would help remove Axos from the Pact would by no means be sufficient inducement for them to do so. The Sumaah Republic intends to let virtue guide their approach to the Pact and the Axou, as they do everything else. They would expect the Empire to do the same.

Further details of the Sumaah involvement in the Liberty Pact meeting can be found in the '''[[My soul at liberty]]''' wind of fortune.

===Gift of Pride (Redux)===
* '''The House of the People delayed their shipment of white granite at the request of Ambassador Accalon
* '''After the Winter Solstice there is an opportunity for Imperial fleet captains to escort the shipment to the Brass Coast
At the request of the people of [[the Brass Coast]], as relayed to the Sumaah by Ambassador Accalon, they have delayed the shipment intended to [[Drowned_in_tears#A_Gift_of_Pride|offer aid in rebuilding]]. The white granite is still in the Republic, waiting an escort of Imperial vessels to help it reach the shores of the Bay of Catazar. The House of the People recognises that dealing with the threat of the Children of Wrecks takes priority. The Cardinal of the House of [[Vigilance]], however does append a warning to the Freeborn not to allow the malign power of ''hevn'' to gain a foothold in their souls. "''Hevn''" is apparently an old-fashioned Sumaah term for the power of [[Malign spiritual presences#Vengeance|vengeance]] but with elements of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatered|Hatred]]. The Cardinal reminds their beloved Imperial cousins that to strike against enemies before they can harm you is vigilant but to pursue the destruction of those who have harmed you for selfish reasons is to invite corruption into ones soul.

Regardless, the House of the People have confirmed that the shipments of white granite await an Imperial escort. They warn, however, that they cannot afford to delay their gift for another season. The [[Asavean Archipelago]] already seems to have gotten wind of what is planned, and any further wait will surely see the Sumaah ships attacked and sunk regardless of the presence of Imperial vessels.

You can read about this opportunity in last seasons '''[[Drowned_in_tears#A_Gift_of_Pride|Drowned in tears]]''' wind of fortune.
{{CaptionedImage|file=IconZemress.png |caption=Icon of Zemress|title=Icons of Zemress are popular with sailors who must travel through dangerous waters - both those from the Brass Coast, and the distant Frieøyer.|align=right|width=300}}
===Inspiration of Zemress===
* '''A renowned Frieøyer captain has come to study at the Zemress Naval Academy along Sumaah sailors and shipwrights'''
* '''Their support has helped to unlock the full potential of the Academy and the Empire's naval forces'''
While [[Red skies|war rages]] in the seas of Sarvos and Madruga, a Sumaah ship appears at the docks in [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. It looks a little the worse for wear, showing signs of having sustained significant damage recently. It turns out to be the ship of ''Bjarna Xicot'' of the Frieøyer - the former pirates [[Zemress#A_Tale_from_Sumaah|inspired]] by the paragon [[Zemress]] - who has come to study at the [[Madruga#Zemress_Naval_Academy|Zemress Naval Academy]] along with a boatload of Sumaah students. Unfortunately, along the way, they fell afoul of Asavaean privateers and only just managed to escape with their lives and their vessel.

The Sumaah quickly make themselves at home; the Frieøyer among their number have all fought alongside Imperial fleet captains before, during the [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#A_Bond_Between_Sailors|fight against Asavea]] last year. The others are a combination of pilgrims of [[Prosperity]], scholars, and shipwrights. Sumaah does not have anything to match the naval prowess of Asavea but like the Empire they have their traditions of building warships. Without them, the Asaveans would likely have conquered swathes of their coastline in the centuries of war.

''Bjarna Xicot'' brings with her a gift - or rather, she and her companions ''are'' the gift. A gift not from the House of the People or the High Houses of Virtue but from the Frieøyer themselves. It is in part a gift of gratitude for the Imperial sailors who fought alongside them, partly a gift of Pride, but mostly a gift to recognise the shared love of Zemress between the Frieøyer and the Brass Coast. The artisans and veteran mariners who accompany Bjarna are here to stay, they are eager to study at the Academy and learn what they can from the Freeborn masters of the sea, but they also bring knowledge and skills of their own, which they are enthusiastic to share. They bring with them a small library of plans and books dedicated to the art of the shipwright, translated painstakingly from their original tongue into Imperial.

Studying together, the two groups are able to achieve a breakthrough. The Academy has been steadily creating designs for new warships, trying to match the qualities of the navies of the [[Grendel]] and the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]]. The school has done a remarkable job building up Imperial expertise, but with the information the Frieøyer have provided has helped to ''complete'' that program of study. The academy has discovered everything they can - all that remains now is to put that knowledge into practice.

That means building some navies, but it also means spreading the knowledge they have gained far and wide across the Empire. Excited at the prospects of sharing what they have learned with everyone in the Empire, the Academy soon empties out, as people make arrangements to visit one or more of the other nations. After-all - "all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it."

The main advantage of spreading this knowledge far and wide is that shipwrights will be able to build vessels better suited to a nation's ideals. Local shipwrights can build on the skills and learning shared by the staff of the former Zemress Academy to create something more in keeping with local traditions. Freeborn navies might be well-suited to plunder, while a Dawnish warship might be built for glory!

What that means now, is that any [[navy]] built by the Empire would have access to a set of three or more qualities just like an [[army]]. Going forward, similar to the [[Rules_update_2026#New_Army_Qualities|rules that cover army qualities]], the Senator who musters a navy will be given a list of qualities to choose from reflecting their nation and the narrative surrounding the navy's creation. These will be drawn from the list of standard qualities, but through [[opportunity|opportunities]] or [[appraisal|appraisals]], more unique qualities may be on offer.
<div style="float: right; width: 250px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|width=250px}}</div>
====Legacy====
* '''The Synod lists the Krakens' Bane as a memorial to Zemress'''
* '''The Wreckers destroyed the beautiful seminary constructed in her memory'''
* '''The potential exists to create a truly inspirational memorial to Zemress'''
* '''Any edifice would be more inspirational if the General Assembly recognise Zemress as a paragon'''
The Zemress Naval Academy now stands empty. Its great work complete, the staff have fanned out across the Empire, taking the new learning with them. The power to develop qualities is no longer available or needed. However, the building still stands, and it still attracts the best shipwrights from across the Brass Coast and beyond. This is the site that raised Imperial naval traditions to the point where they could rival - at least in theory - those of the Grendel or the Asaveans. The Frieøyer came half way across the world to study here.

This incredible legacy should be preserved. When the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress_(Destroyed)|Seminary of Zemress]] was destroyed, the ''Kraken's Bane'' was left untouched. It bears a [[Aura#Durable_Auras|true aura]] of Prosperity, [[A_time_of_plenty#Coin_that_Goes_Unspent|placed there by Gilah, daughter of the Chantry]] with the approval of the Assembly of Prosperity. The beautiful building that once celebrated the life of this iconic Freeborn hero was destroyed, but the potential exists to rebuild it into something even more inspirational.

No true liao would be needed, but a new [[edifice]] of some kind is needed. The more [[Edifice#Grandeur|grandiose]] the building, the more inspirational it would be. However, the other thing that would help to remind everyone of the importance of the site, is if the Freeborn were able to convince the General Assembly to recognise Zemress as a paragon. After-all... what more powerful a legacy could exist than the triumph of the Zemress Naval Academy?

Freeborn architects intend to bring a range of plans forward to create a new building to celebrate Zemress' life later this year. They want to give their fellow Freeborn time to persuade the Synod of the truth of their claims - that Zemress i Ezmara i Erigo has passed through the Labyrinth. If the Synod act to recognise Zemress as a paragon, they will publish their ideas before the next summit, otherwise they will publish them in a year's time.

===OOC Note===
The Zemress Naval Academy, and its approach to determining qualities for navies, was rooted in an earlier vision of how navies worked. As we've developed our approach to armies, it's become more clear that we should be treating navies in the same way we do armies - that they should have strong identities tied to the nation that supports them. As such, the existing abilities of the Academy to build up a small list of qualities based on the design of the ships themselves has become outmoded. The in-character rationale for the rules change is that the arrival of the Frieøyer has helped the Academy achieve its ultimate goals and allowed them to spread knowledge of advanced ship-building right across the Empire.

Rather than simply have the Naval Academy become a white elephant, we'll present an opportunity to build on the consecrated location dedicated to Zemress later this year, to give the Empire an opportunity to rededicate the site with a new purpose.

==Tsark==
* '''The people of Tsark keep the Empire at arms' length
* '''The Imperial Consul is technically responsible for diplomatic relations with the Mountains of the Moon
During the Autumn Equinox, a delegation from the [[Tsark|Mountains of the Moon]] visited [[Bedight_in_veils#The_People_of_the_Moon|visited Anvil]]. They spoke with a number of people, and by all accounts the discussions were somewhat fruitful. The people of Tsark - the [[orc]] nation that occupies the shallow basin surrounded by the Mountains - have so far kept the Empire very much at arms' length. Following their visit, however, they have made an approach to the civil service and asked their assistance in preparing some proposals to put before the Empire.

===Garden of the Perfect World===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of the Perfect World'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Ministry</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]], [[Zenith]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 15 [[weirwood]], 45 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Seeker of the Perfect World''
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Seeker of the Perfect World'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Urizen National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Urizen National Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees the Garden of the Perfect World</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To look after the Garden of the Perfect World, and to help the people of Tsark trade with the Empire</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' The benefits are lost if the Empire and Tsark are no longer friendly</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Wood and Stone'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>4 weirwood</td><td>4 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>6 weirwood</td><td>6 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>8 weirwood</td><td>8 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Spirits and Stone'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 liao</td><td>1 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>90 liao</td><td>2 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>150 liao</td><td>3 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''There is an opportunity to build a ministry to trade for Tsark's white granite
Tsark resists the idea of an [[embassy]]. By all accounts they see the Empire as a place of chaos and turmoil, very much at odds with the ordered and harmonious life they lead in the high mountains east of [[Urizen]]. For centuries they have hidden away from Imperial eyes, discouraging anyone from visiting their home with mighty fortifications and memory-altering drugs. Now, however, it seems that they are prepared to countenance some limited trade with Imperial citizens, with an eye toward acquiring substances that are rare or unknown in Tsark. With the aid of the civil service they have put forward a proposal for the grandiosely titled ''Garden of the Perfect World''.

The garden would be a special [[ministry]] built in the foothills of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] in southern [[Zenith]]. They expect the Empire to undertake the construction. Despite its majestic name, the actual commission requires only 15 wains of weirwood and 45 crowns in labour. It would take three months to complete. It takes the form of a meditative garden, built in the style of Tsark. Quiet chimes are hung from carefully selected trees, and what appears to be a traditional Tsark meeting hall stands along the southern side of the garden. The commission also involves beautiful flowering plants, some from Urizen and some from Tsark.

Once complete the Mountains of the Moon would create the title ''Seeker of the Perfect World'' to oversee it. They would be responsible for trading with the people of Tsark, and where the folk of the Mountains of the Moon reached out to the Empire they would be asked to facilitate any diplomacy or negotiations. It sounds a little like what they really want is an ambassador, but the leaders of Tsark are clear they do not. It seems they are concerned that they would have to build a reciprocal embassy themselves, and allow Imperial citizens into their lands, which they will not do.

The garden allows the ''Seeker of the Perfect World'' access to a ministry that lets them exchange their [[white granite]] from the [[Mountains_of_the_Moon#Kamen_Quarry|Kamen Quarry]] for Imperial [[weirwood]]. They are also interested in acquiring some amount of [[liao]] - a substance not found in Tsark - for use by the human citizens of their nation. They are aware that the quantities they are asking for are quite significant and understand if the Empire doesn't want to take advantage of the trade.

Obviously as a ministry supported by a foreign nation, the ability to trade resources with Tsark is entirely dependant on continued diplomatic relations. Aware that the Empire is, perhaps rightly, concerned about what will happen if Tsark chooses to close itself off from the world again, they have agreed that if they end their trade with the Empire for any reason they will provide 15 wains of white granite to the Seeker of the Perfect World before they do so to pay for the resources spent in the construction of the ministry. If the Empire ends trade, of course, they will not feel the need to provide any restitution at all.

The opportunity remains available until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE.

===Zaboravi===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Peaceful Quietitude'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Sinecure</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Wintermark]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 12 [[weirwood]], 36 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a sinecure and the title of ''Seeker of Quietitude''
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Seeker of Quietitude'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Wintermark National or Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Wintermark National Assembly or Imperial Apothecaries' Guild</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives 12 doses of zaboravi each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversees the Garden of Peaceful Quietitude; help cultivate zaboravi in Wintermark</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Tsark will help the people of Wintermark cultivate zaboravi
* '''The sinecure must be built in an alpine territory, in a region with hills and hot springs
The people of Tsark make use of an exotic drug called ''Zaboravi'' that has remarkable properties. Used correctly, it allows an individual to edit their own memories in a manner similar to [[Cast Off The Chain of Memory]]. According to the folk from the Mountains of the Moon, [[Night magic]] is a crude tool for altering one's memories, equivalent to a spade or a pickaxe - partly because of the raw magic involved and partly because the impetus to forget comes from outside the self. Zaboravi is a more gentle, harmonious way to alter ones recollections, because all it does is empower the one who uses it to choose how to shape their own remembered past.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBWintermark.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}</div>
There has been discussion of seeing if the plant that produces zaboravi will prosper in [[Wintermark]]; the farmers there have already had some success with cultivating ''viezesmaak'' for the [[Sarcophan Delves]], and there is interest in seeing if they might be able to do the same with the Tsark drug. There is talk of zaboravi being invaluable to [[surgical skills#Physick|physicks]] dealing with people suffering emotional or spiritual wounds caused by terrible events. Tsark is broadly positive about facilitating such a thing - they are not jealous of their control of zaboravi and see the value of using it to help those whose spirits are in discord find peace.

Again, with the help of the civil service, they have put forward a proposal for a [[commission]] in [[Wintermark]]. The ''Garden of Peaceful Quietude'' is a [[sinecure]] that will require 12 wains of weirwood and 36 crowns in labour to complete, taking three months to construct. It will create a title - ''Seeker of Quietude'' - who will oversee the efforts to cultivate zaboravi. Each season, the gardeners of Tsark believe it will produce 12 doses of zaboravi for the Seeker, presuming that the location is conducive and the gardeners follow their instructions to the letter. The initial proposal from Tsark is that the Seeker of Quietude be appointed by the Wintermark National Assembly - zaboravi is after all a spiritual substance. The civil service however have pointed out that as a unique herb it might be more appropriate to see the title appointed by the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]]. Tsark has indicated that it is happy either way as long as the drug is treated with the reverence they feel it deserves. Notably, once the plant is established, however, its continued cultivation will require no further interaction with Tsark, so it will not be dependant on good relations continuing with the nation.

The only real restriction they place on it is that for the zaboravi to prosper it needs three things; a cool climate, as much altitude as possible, and access to geothermal hot springs. Apparently the folk of Wintermark that the visitors spoke to were confident they knew just the place.

The civil service have assessed the proposal, and indicated that the plans the people of Tsark have provided could also allow similar gardens to be built in other alpine locations - specifically [[Skarsind]], northern [[Hercynia]], and northern [[Varushka]]. The main challenge would be finding suitable locations, which would require an [[appraisal]]. The only limitation would be that such an appraisal couldn't be undertaken until the Empire had a source of the plant itself - so not until the ''Garden of Peaceful Quietude'' was completed.

===Ushabti and Rice===
* '''Some folk in Tsark are interested in both Ushabti and the Golden Cascade
* '''Further discussion waits the completion of the Garden of the Perfect World
During their visit, the subject of both [[Urizen_economic_interests#Ushabti|ushabti]] and the [[Zenith#Proceris|Golden Cascade]] were raised. By all accounts the visitors from Tsark were interested, but cautious. The leaders of the nation have determined that while they are curious about both the odd constructs that seem to work best at high altitude, and the ambitious great work that provides food for much of Zenith and indeed the nation as a whole, any further discussion will have to wait until the ''Garden of the Perfect World'' is completed. Or not, as the case may be.
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tarquinius Ankarien.jpg|caption=Tarquinius Ankarien (left), former [[Ambassador to Axos]], has apparently been charged to speak with the Skourans by the Imperial Consul.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
==Skoura==
* '''The nation of Skoura lies to the east of Mareave
* '''While they are keeping the Empire at arms' length the two nations are at peace
* '''The Imperial Consul is responsible for diplomacy with Skoura
The message from Talker Garra, Delvemistress of Skoura, that arrives in Mareave midway through the season is neatly written on tough parchment. It begins by thanking '''Tarquinius Ankarien''' for their understanding - they would indeed prefer to deal with the [[Imperial Orcs]] as much as possible and would prefer that if the [[Imperial Consul]] chooses to delegate communication they do so with that in mind. The Unshackled are their neighbours, and there is still some distance to go before Skoura is entirely happy dealing with the wider Empire. The Delvemistress is happy to trust the good sense of '''Pathfinder Gaddak''' in this matter.

Establishing a permanent [[embassy]] would be a significant step in relations between the mountainfolk and the Empire - and one that they are not entirely sure they are ready to make. Accepting an Imperial [[ambassador]] would be a serious matter, and would mean that their interaction with Imperial citizens will have evolved beyond the point of a small number of trade agreements with the people of [[Mareave]]. The first question that Talker Garra has is, can the Imperial Consul confirm that the Empire is prepared to commit to appointing an Unshackled to the position, at least for the time being? The second question is, what form would the Empire expect an embassy to take, and what commitments would be required from Skoura? Obviously they would require any embassy to be built in Mareave; presumably the Empire would expect an embassy to be built in Skoura as well? In all honesty, writes Delvemistress Garra, the fact that the Empire changes its ambassadors often is seen as something of a problem with the more conservative members of their nation. Needing to re-establish relations each time a new ambassador is appointed represents a significant investment of time and trust.

The Skourans are pleased to hear that the Empire has no intention of sending spies into their lands. The Skourans are a private people - it is not that they have things to hide so much as that they would prefer to build their relationship with the Empire carefully, and on a foundation of mutual trust.

===Trade and Artisans===
* '''The Geltcourse Trade Security Council have confirmed they are willing to investigate further trade with the Imperial Orcs'''
* '''They require the Senate to recognise the Artisans Guild as an Imperial sodality before further plans are developed'''
There is one matter that could, apparently, increase Skouran enthusiasm for building that relationship more quickly. The ''Geltcourse Trade Security Council'' first visited Anvil six months ago, at the [[I_wish_you_would#To_Mahal_from_the_Mines|Summer Solstice 387YE]]. There, they discussed the nature of trade and the potential for long-term trade with the Imperial Orcs in Mareave. The Geltcourse Trade Security Council have finished their deliberations and is interested in a formalised arrangement.

However, the Geltcourse Trade Security Council are one and all respectful of the art of the [[artisan]], and the inherent strength that comes with a recognised central authority. As such, they are unwilling to go further with a formal arrangement unless the Artisans Guild is recognised as an [[Imperial sodality]] by the [[Senate]] and ratified by [[the Throne]]. The representative of the Geltcourse Trade Security Council makes clear that this is ''not'' a slight on the Unshackled; they sincerely hope to have future dealings with the orcs of Mareave. Unfortunately, this is a red line for the Geltcourse Trade Security Council if they are to cultivate trade with the Empire as a whole rather than just their neighbours on the lower slopes.

===Defensive War===
* '''Skoura is prepared to send 500 troops to support Rucraic's Redoubt following the Winter Solstice
* '''In return they require a payment of 50 measures of dragonbone
The discussion about armies and "defensive war" is interesting, and does indeed show how different the strategies of Skoura and the Empire have become. Most Skourans would see armies as something that supplements the sturdy [[fortification]] of a territory, an adjunct to the defence rather than the primary component. Fortunately, given that the Unshackled have completed [[Mareave#Ruicraic's Redoubt|Ruicraic's Redoubt]], it is that much more likely they will be able to resist the Grendel.

With that in mind, the Delvemistress offers to dispatch a cadre of Skouran war-engineers to Rucraic's Redoubt, to bolster the [[fortification#garrison|garrison]] there and help to fight the Grendel. After some further questions, the civil service determine that a "cadre" in this case represents a fighting strength of 500, equivalent to five military units. In return, the Skouran commanders require 50 measures of [[dragonbone]], delivered in advance by either the Imperial Consul or Senator Pathfinder. Given the situation, the Delvemistress mentions that if they are prepared to provide an additional thirty crystal mana as well, she will ensure that the cadre is suitable enchanted with the might of the mountains - sufficient to increase the strength they will contribute to 1000 force. ('''OOC Note:''' If the Consul or the Senator wishes to take up this offer, they will need to ensure the resources are handed in at the end of the event and then email {{plot}} to confirm they wish them to be transferred to Skoura).

The Skouran Talker suggests that while this military support is not great given the scale the Empire works on, it is as much about testing the waters as anything else. It will also give the warrior-engineers an opportunity to examine the stonework of Rucraic's Redoubt, which they apparently see as an additional benefit.
==Further Reading==
* [[Faraden]]
* [[Iron Confederacy]]
* [[Sumaah Republic]]
* [[Tsark]]
* [[Skoura]]

Poets light but lamps

2026-04-21T20:25:48Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Raking Over The Ashes */ Completing the extremism

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Sumaah]] [[Category:Iron Confederacy]][[Category:Faraden]][[Category:Skoura]][[Category:Tsark]]
<ic>“Do you believe it?”

Tchinua Ganbatar, Liege of the Five Winds, gave a slight snort. “Which part?”

Mistress Karadragha looked down at her papers with a heavy sigh. “At this point? Any of it.”

“I’ll have no words of fear spoken in this meeting, Singhua.” The Liege leaned forwards to refill their cup of tea. “Give me focus, and don’t jump at shadows. What are we informally discussing today?”

“As you say, my Liege.” The Trade Advisor adjusted her spectacles before continuing. “To start with, rumours of the Asaveans involving themselves with the Cinders and other anti-Imperial factions.”

A quiet figure sat off to one side of the meeting room spoke up. “We have no intelligence to confirm the notion, but it would resolve some unanswered questions if it were true. The Cinders are surprisingly well-funded. Even after their condemnation scared off their moderate supporters they still seem to be active across the border. Foreign support would certainly account for that.”

The Liege stroked their chin thoughtfully. “It would also suit the interests of the Asaveans to use Faraden extremists to anger the Empire, especially if they can do it without getting their hands dirty or inviting censure from the Court. What evidence does the Ambassador present?”

“Divinations of the flame, mostly, which means presumably a great deal of interpretation is involved which at best makes them suspect and at worst...”

“Very well. Contact the wizards of the Faces in Fire. They write down all their visions, so see if they have anything that might support this Imperial claim. Let them know we are asking, and they'll see the advantage in being in our good graces. Especially with the matter of the entertainments for my birthday celebrations on the horizon. In the meantime, set your agents prying around any Asavean interests here, especially the quiet ones we might have overlooked. There’s no way that the embassy would be foolish enough to be caught out by this. What next?”

The quiet figure spoke. “Related to the Cinders, the Sansar bounty.”

“Remind me?”

“The Sansar sent three of their family to negotiate for another trade enclave within the Empire. Our agents discovered that one of the three had been radicalised by the Cinders and intended to murder the other two for associating with heretics. Imperial law enforcement identified the guilty party before he struck, and Solongo Sansar has issued a bounty against the Cinders for their actions against her kin. We could potentially convince her to stand down, but it would upset the priesthood and risk emboldening the Cinders further.”

The Liege scowled. “No. The Cinders encouraged kinslaying so let them face the consequences. Tell Solongo that we support her without actually saying the words, and make sure our functionaries at court spread the story as far as they can. We can’t drive the reactionaries away entirely, but we need to keep them isolated. Anyone who can stand up in public and say that they support this kind of treacherous behaviour can reap their rewards.”

The Liege’s companions nodded and made various notes. Mistress Karadragha spoke up again. “I’m hearing on the wind that the Imperial priests are sending dire warnings about Cinders mounting some kind of concerted attacks within Imperial borders. The ambassador didn’t mention it, do we know anything about that?”

The quiet figure responded. “It’s almost certainly true. Gossip and coded messages have been pointing to them planning something big. We haven't been able to identify any targets so far, but their attention being centred within Imperial borders that would account for the lack of information.”

"The ambassador has asked for any information we have," observed Mistress Karadragha in a neutral tone. Both turned their attention to the Liege, expectantly.

There was a long pause before they responded, which they spent carefully stirring a spoonful of honey into their tea. The tinkling of the little silver spoon sounded like distant bells.

“I think it is time for the Cinders to encounter a significant setback.” They drained the dregs of their teacup, winced at the bitterness despite the sweetener. “Retain as much distance as you can, but set your best agents to scouring known Cinder hideouts for information. When you find it, no matter how tenuous, even if it means nothing to you, make sure it reaches the Ambassador. It's the least we can do, and we will just have to trust the Pride and Courage of the Empire to do the rest.”</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Candles flame in the wind.jpg|align=left|caption=Peace is all too often a candleflame in the wind.|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
There are six great powers in the known world whose influence and reach rivals that of the Empire. There also innumerable lesser powers who do not have the might to shake the world, but who are nonetheless important to those with whom they share a border. The ambitions of these nearby nations are no less relevant to the Empire. Sometimes diplomatic relations require in-depth analysis; sometimes there is an opportunity to catch one's breath and let the drama move slowly towards the next crisis point.

There are [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to some of these nations - the [[Iron Confederacy|Suranni]], [[Axos]], the [[Thule]], and [[Faraden]] in particular. Other nations are dealt with by the [[Imperial Consul]]. Sometimes a neighbouring nation focuses on diplomacy with the Empire, and requires an in-depth discussion. The '''[[Death leaves us homesick]]''' wind of fortune covers relations with Axos for example, while '''[[Invited with asperity]]''' focuses on the [[orc|orcs]] of [[Otkodov]]. Sometimes however there is less going on and diplomacy can be part of a wider, more surface, roundup. For example '''[[Each age a lens]]''' covers nearly half a dozen of the orc nations that lie near the Empire.

Here we can read about several neighbouring nations to the Empire not covered in detail elsewhere - the [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and even the more powerful nation of the [[Sumaah Republic]].
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=A Yak.jpg|align=right|caption=The yak of western Faraden are like very hairy oxen but adapted to live at high altitudes and in cold weather. Their wool, milk, and meat is much prized.|width=400}}</div>
==Faraden==
* '''Faraden remains caught between Imperial and Asavean interests
* '''The Liege of Five Winds appears to favour the Empire but there are powerful factions in Faraden that prefer closer ties with Asavea
* '''Faraden and the Empire are at peace, and trade ties between them are being strengthened
The lifeblood of [[Faraden]] is trade, but it is also a country of canny wizards, courageous warriors, and proud (albeit heretical) priests. They currently do not share a border with the Empire, lying beyond the [[Jotun]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that does not stop them sending their caravans to Imperial markets despite the high tariffs they must pay to pass through the lands between. Diplomatic relations between the Court of the Five Winds and the Imperial Senate are changeable - warm one moment cool the next - but it has never come to open warfare. Right now Faraden is squeezed between two competing interests - the Empire on one side and the angry Plenum of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] on the other - and they must walk a knife-edge between the two powerful nations.
{{Nation|nation=[[Faraden]]|port=[[Sea_of_Snow#Pelabuhan|Caitun]]|ambassador=Ebenezer of [[the Marches]]|status=Foreigner}}
The Faraden ambassador to the Empire is ''Mistress Singua Karadragha''. Mistress Singua advises the Court of the Five Winds on all diplomatic matters, and speaks on their behalf to foreign ambassadors. Her attitude to the Empire appears to be cool but professional, and heavily informed by the wishes of the Liege and their court, who seek more opportunities to trade with the Empire.
===General Diplomacy===
* '''Communications between Faraden and the Empire are civil and constructive
* '''The Faraden seek closer trade ties with the Empire as a route to shared prosperity
Ambassador Ebeneezer has raised the matter of the Cinders with Mistress Karadragha. As [[We give the future to the winds#Ashes On The Breeze|previously mentioned]], this sect of violent zealots have been condemned by the Liege of the Five Winds, and the organisation has been driven underground. Yet there is still concern that the Cinders intend to continue their vendetta against the Empire.

Mistress Karadragha confirms that wizards versed in the art of Flame have also offered warnings about the Cinders, but the problem is that their [[divination|divinations]] are fundamentally symbolic and need careful interpretation. No doubt the Empire's adepts of [[Night magic]] have encountered the same challenges. Regardless, the Liege of the Five Winds sees no reason not to share whatever intelligence the Faraden have about the Cinders' operations in the Empire. Several reports have been dispatched by special courier to help Imperial citizens plot the movements of the Cinders.

The Court of the Five Winds is apparently very pleased with the news that work on [[Wild_is_the_wind#Yakholme_Grange|Yakholme Grange]] [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_Yakholme_Grange|has begun]], and that there is a good chance Faraden [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#The_Richest_Wines|trade with Dawn]] may be moving forward. Prosperous trade ties with the Empire strengthen the position of the Liege of the Five Winds, and reinforce their pro-Imperial agenda. The fact that trade with the Empire can be undertaken without the need to trust to ships and boats and the dangers of the [[Sea of Snow]], as compared to trade with the Asaveans, which relies on long shipping routes, means it has particular appeal to the merchant-families of the nation.
===War and the Jotun===
* '''Mistress Karadragha declines to send Faraden mercenaries to fight in the Empire
* '''The Liege of the Five Winds is apparently in negotiation with another power to attack southern Reinos
* '''They propose that the Empire attack the northern regions of the Lasambrian Hills following the Winter Solstice
Ambassador Ebeneezer has clearly presented the idea that the Empire and Faraden could form an alliance against the Jotun. The current truce with the Jotun is the result of a treaty, but as Mistress Karadragha has [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#The_Hills_of_Reinos|already said]], that treaty is due to be renewed or renegotiated at the Summer Solstice. The situation has not changed; Faraden cannot afford to go to war with the Jotun, and as near as the Court of Five Winds can tell the Jotun would prefer to focus their efforts on fighting the Empire. The Ambassador's suggestion that Faraden troops might fight against the [[Druj]] or the [[vallorn|peculiar plant monsters]] that infest parts of the Empire are interesting, but unappealing; the distances are too great and the dangers are too unknown.

However, it may be that the Faraden and the Empire could both get what they want. The [[Iron Confederacy]] has reached out to the Court of the Five Winds and informed them that the Suranni intend to conquer southern [[Reinos]]. This is not the ideal situation, in that it swaps Jotun control of their trade routes to the Empire for Suranni control; but that is still preferable to the stranglehold the barbarian orcs have over them.

If the Empire is serious about a joint effort, then the Military Council could dispatch a force to attack [[Reinos#Ribeira|Riberia]] and [[Reinos#Pedreira|Pedreira]] after the Winter Solstice. A powerful force would be able to smash through the defences there and claim both regions. At the same time, the Iron Confederacy will be attacking in the south, catching Jotun defenders between the hammer and the anvil.

There are further benefits to the Faraden of course. If a serious force of soldiers were attacking the hills of Reinos they would be in a much better position to renegotiate or even abandon their treaty with the Jotun. The benefits to the Empire are less clear - but Mistress Karadragha points out that control of Pedreira would give the Empire control of the [[white granite]] quarry at [[Reinos#Cantera_Balanka|Cantera Balanka]] as well as protecting the entire western border of [[Segura]] from future Jotun invasion.
===Faith and Flame===
* '''The Gatekeepers have provided a dose of true liao to the Faraden priest Boorra Talighar of the Silver Tree
* '''The Temple of the High Flames will receive a true consecration during the Winter Solstice
* '''There are concerns that Asavean assassins may try to disrupt the ceremony
* '''If the consecration is successful, it will end opportunities for Asavean religion to spread in Faraden
Last season ''Boorra Talighar of the Silver Tree'', priest of the Five Flames, [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#Flames_and_Faith|petitioned the Synod]] for a dose of [[liao#True Liao|True Liao]]. Their intent was to use the true liao to create a [[Consecration#True_Liao|true consecration]] of the [[Auras_of_Pride#Partner_of_Greatness|Flame of Honour]]; a powerful aura to help anchor the true faith of Faraden in the face of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] syncretism. During the Equinox, the [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]] met and discussed the matter, and ultimately [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Doses_of_True_Liao|chose to provide]] one of the seven doses available to them. With the particular aid of '''Nisha Strazcovich''', a former Gatekeeper of Pride who Ebeneezer notes as being instrumental in ensuring the dose was available, the Ambassadors office ensured the true liao was safely delivered to Faraden.

During the Winter Solstice, a grand ceremony marking the end of one year and the beginning of another will take place at the ''Temple of the High Flames'', the most prestigious seat of the Faraden faith. Mistress Karadragha believes representatives of all the [[On_Faraden_faith#The Priest Families|priestly families]] of Faraden will attend, whatever their individual attitudes to the Empire. it is, to put it mildly, a big deal for the faithful of Faraden. No outside priests will be present as this is a ceremony for the Faraden. The Faraden Ambassador, however, has let the Ambassador know that the Liege of the Five Wind has ensured that warriors loyal to them will be present to protect the festivities. There is some concern that the Asaveans might attempt to disrupt the ceremony; there are rumours of assassin-priests of the twin-gods of vengeance, Tlangg and Sanit being present in Faraden.

Assuming the ceremony goes off without a hitch, it will create a potent site of pilgrimage for the faithful of Faraden. The Temple of the High Flames is to the Faraden what the Basilica of Seven Doors is to the Highborn, or the marshes of the Sovennan are to the Winterfolk - a central location sacred to all denominations of their faith. There is no doubt that the true aura will serve as a powerful prophylactic against the influence of Asavean priests, sufficient to put an end to the spread of their influence in the western nation.

It is, of course, illegal for Imperial citizens to trade true liao to citizens of foreign nations; there is no suggestion that either the Liege of the Five Winds or the priest families of Faraden will offer any payment for the liao. All they can offer in return is the profound gratitude of those who take Pride in [[On Faraden faith|their faith]], and who welcome this return to the true values of their own historic religion.
===Fire Fighters===
* '''Zealous crusaders from Faraden have attempted to destroy the Azure Chorus, the docks at Fisk, and the docks at Meade'''
* '''Thanks to prompt warnings from the Imperial Synod two of the three attacks have been thwarted'''
* '''The Jotun have restored the Docks at Meade but made cosmetic changes'''
* '''These attacks have been widely condemned within Faraden'''
In the days following the Autumn Equinox, hasty warnings are carried to Wintermark, the Marches, and the Brass Coast. '''Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum''', the Cardinal of Pride, has issued a dire warning, backed by a greater majority of the Assembly of Nine: the Cinders, a violent group of ultra-conservative Faraden who decry the Empire and all its citizens as irredeemable heretics, have infiltrated the Empire, and intend to wreak havoc upon the innocent. The three targets – the docks at both Fisk and Meade, and the Azure Chorus – are of obvious symbolic value, each one serving as a site where the people of the Empire and the people of Faraden can meet in a spirit of solidarity and cooperation. Further hue and cry is raised in Marches specifically, as the statement of '''Father Edmund''' warns the people of Meade that the attackers have already infiltrated the city. Likewise, the Freeborn Assembly upheld a statement from '''Dayanara i Cabeza i Erigo''' warning of the planned attack in Kahraman. Whichever statement people hear first, the warnings are the same: be Vigilant. Lives are at stake.

The situation in Fisk is well contained. A local magistrate, already visiting the town to try an unrelated case, moves quickly to deputise nearby citizens and take control of the Market Hall. While the Faraden workers there are initially outraged by the accusations that there may be violent fanatics among their number, the outrage turns to panic when one of the porters draws a knife and slashes the magistrate’s face. What follows is a brief, ugly brawl, as other infiltrators from the Cinders reveal themselves and attempt to break out and flee. An effort is made to take suspects alive for trial and questioning, but comes to nothing. Even after the Cinders are disarmed, they do nothing but hurl abuse at their captors and their fellow Faraden alike, refusing to cooperate. Aside from vague hints that there are more of them in the Empire and that there will be more violence to follow, they give nothing useful, and are executed on the spot.

Chaos, unfortunately, reigns at the Azure Chorus. The densely packed tents of visiting pilgrims make conducting an orderly investigation all but impossible. Rumours spread through the camp like wildfire, leaving the Courageous and Vigilant citizens of the Brass Coast unable to take their targets by surprise. Some fear that the Cinders may simply flee, but the truth turns out to be much darker. A visiting priest comes running from the Parador of Wind and Flame, shouting that some Faraden pilgrims have barred the doors and begun massacring everyone inside, screaming condemnations against the “lovers of false flames.” The scene is set for tragedy, but nobody present is minded to accept such an outcome. Faraden and Freeborn alike take up arms and storm the Parador in defence of the priests and pilgrims trapped inside, fighting room to room and shedding blood to defend one another. There are many deaths, but fewer than might have been expected, given the grim circumstances.

Things go equally badly in Meade, where the situation is complicated by the the arrival of the Jotun. There is some question among those who stay behind as to whether or not to alert the Jotun to the plans of the Cinders. Would passing on such information be providing treasonous aid to an enemy, or acting with Vigilance to undermine a different enemy?

Unfortunately, the Cinders use the chaos of the invasion to attack before anyone can make a decision one way or the other. The dock front quickly descends into chaos as the Cinders fire the pier and try to murder the Faraden and Marcher merchants working there. Initially stunned by the madness, a Jotun patrol quickly composes themselves and within minutes Jotun and Marchers are fighting side-by-side to take the Cinders down.

At first the Jotun assume that the assassins are under some terrible Night magic curse. Three Cinders were captured alive during the attack - once the Jotun discover there was no magic involved they are appalled. A jarl is summoned and after the briefest trial imaginable, the three men are taken out into the bay and summarily drowned. It is apparently the worst death imaginable as far as the Jotun are concerned.

Once the Cinders have been dealt with, the Jarl gives orders to the Jotun for the docks to be restored. The work is done quickly, most of the docks can be salvaged and materials are shipped in to replace the parts that are too far gone. By the start of the Winter Solstice, the dock front is almost as good as new. Almost... because the Jotun artisans take it on themselves to add a monolithic stone carved in the likeness of an orc warrior - not the Jarl but an idol of [[Elite_Jotun_troops#Skjaldir|Skjaldir]], one of the Jotun faðir.

When word reaches the Faraden Embassy, the response is quick and firm: an absolute and total condemnation of the Cinders' actions. The Liege of the Five Winds had previously spoken out against the Cinders after their failed attempt on the life of the Champion of Vigilance, but this has ignited fury across all of Faraden society. Even conservative thinkers who have never truly reconciled with the differences of faith between the Empire and Faraden are forced to publicly acknowledge that this has gone too far. The Liege of the Five Winds makes a speech before their court, committing to personally pay for any repairs to the sites of the attack, a gesture that earns widespread praise for its even-handed measure of Pride, Prosperity and Justice.

Embassy staff supply one slightly testy clarification to public perceptions of the Cinders: they are not 'Justice cultists', any more than a devout citizen of the Empire is an 'Ambition cultist'. The Cinders follow the Five Flames, just as the people of the Empire follow the Imperial Way. The Cinders are not bad because they follow a specific Virtue, they are bad because they are violent xenophobes who decry the possibility of coexistence and mutual Prosperity in favour of a chauvinistic vision of total cultural purity. Excessive dwelling on religious differences is what led to this problem in the first place, and the last thing anyone needs is someone stoking the flames.

====Raking Over The Ashes====
* '''The infiltrators in Fisk, Meade and the Azure Chorus were not the only Cinders present within the Empire.'''
* '''The attackers will cause further havoc unless they are prevented from doing so.'''
* '''Questions remain over how the group were able to acquire their supplies.'''
In the aftermath, cooler heads begin to dig deeper in both of the locations still controlled by the Empire. What emerges in each case is a similar story. The Cinders arrived as individuals or small groups over the course of the last year, staying and quietly blending in with their countryfolk. They did not disguise their conservative religious views, but did not speak of their violent aims to anyone outside of the conspiracy. The reasons for this are not hard to determine. Not only has the Liege of the Five Winds condemned the sect for their extremism, but many Faraden actively disagree with their attacks on people who did not harm them first. It seems that the Cinders consider other Faraden who deal with the ‘lovers of False Flames’ to be just as bad as heretics themselves. The Cinders are not, it seems, especially good at blending in with the people around them.

Ambassador Ebeneezer's request to Mistress Karadragha has borne fruit with a series of missives detailing what Faraden investigators were able to determine from their own efforts to suppress the sect. In conjunction with Imperial scouts, the two nations are able to put together a list of targets. It seems that the groups already dealt with are not the only ones active within Imperial borders. It's clear that the Cinders have made good use of the resources provided to them - although there is some question about precisely who their rich patrons are. Rumour suggests it is agents of the Asavean plenum who have been funding the Cinders, wielding their hatred of the Empire as a weapon.

===Wildfire (Conjunctions)===
* '''The Cinders have been spotted moving to attack the House of Guerra, the Anvil Library Scriptorium, and Benson's Orchard.'''
* '''Imperial heroes have the opportunity to act before the Cinders can cause any serious harm.'''
The Faraden reports include coded letters that speak of Cinders agents spying out "the Orchard" in the Marches and it is a relatively simple matter to deduce that this is probably a reference to [[Pruning_shears#Benson's_Orchard|Benson's Orchard]], the memorial to [[Paragons and exemplars|exemplar]] of [[Vigilance]] [[Known exemplars#Joshua Benson|'Major' Joshua Benson]]. From the other reports the Faraden are able to provide, it becomes clear the last Cinders are planning to assault the [[Armarius_of_the_Anvil_Library#The_Library_Scriptorium|Anvil Library Scriptorium]] and the [[Hand of Guerra#House of Guerra|House of Guerra]].

By any analysis, these attacks are ultimately doomed to failure. The aura at Benson's Orchard was created with true liao, and there is no way that the Cinders have access to that most valuable substance. The Anvil Library Scriptorium sits in a fortified compound to protect against assaults from agents of the Whisper Gallery, and the House of Guerra is in Calvos town itself, surrounded by Kohan and Corsairs on shore leave. None of these sites are in danger of being destroyed. However, the Cinders are heavily armed and prepared to fight to the death. If they are allowed to work their will unmolested, they will kill a great many people and cause a lot of damage before they are stopped. Fortunately, with the advance warning provided by Faraden to Ambassador Ebeneezer, and the results of Imperial investigations, there is enough notice for the prognosticators to find conjunctions of the [[Sentinel Gate]] that heroes may be able to intervene and prevent loss of life.

====Burn The Books (Sarvos)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to destroy the Anvil Library Scriptorium'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* '''The ''Armarius of the Anvil Library'' is responsible for protecting the Scriptorium'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''

The Anvil Library stands dedicated to the cause of Wisdom and learning across the Empire, fighting back against the terrible losses inflicted by Emperor Nicovar and his book-burning ways. This cause elicits no sympathy from the Cinders, who decry Wisdom as the False Virtue of Doubt. They would love nothing more than to burn the books and massacre the scribes. The mercenaries engaged in the defence of the compound are trusted veterans, but even one enemy with a lit match could wreak havoc if they broke through.

The main group of Cinders are approaching fast along Vintner's Way in Foracci. It is the responsibility of '''Ricardo Glostari di Sarvos''', the Armarius of the Anvil Library, to cut them off before any damage can be done.

====Sever The Hand (Madruga)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to destroy the House of Guerra'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* '''The ''Hand of Guerra'' is responsible for protecting the House'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''
The House of Guerra stands as a testament to the Empire's commitment to taking care of those in need of shelter. Operated by a well-paid staff noted for their practicality and compassion, this thoroughly benign institution seems an odd target for the religiously-motivated Cinders. Things come into focus when the other duty of the Hand of Guerra is pointed out. Spreading the philosophy of Guerra is not especially controversial in the Empire, but rumours have persisted for a long time of her connection to the False Virtue of Anarchy, which the Cinders despise as much as any Imperial citizen. While the general consensus is that these rumours are historical fabrications, it is doubtful that the Cinders would listen if anyone tried to explain to them.

If the attackers are to be intercepted, the easiest place would be along the Corsair's Road in Calvos Sound. It is the responsibility of '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''', the Hand of Guerra, to prevent any harm coming to their charges.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Orchard One.jpg|align=left|caption=Brother Martin Orchard is a sometimes controversial, well respected monk from Pickham Monastery. in Upwold|width=400}}</div>
====Silence The Bell (Upwold)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to desecrate Benson's Orchard'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* ''' ''Martin Orchard'', who carried out the consecration, is responsible for protecting the memorial'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''
'Major' Joshua Benson is an aspirational figure for many dedicants of Vigilance, especially in the Marches. A man without flashy miracles and tall tales to his name, he simply defended his community with absolute and unwavering commitment. Jackie Longshanks, the Beater who was able to sneak up on the Cinders to eavesdrop on their plans, cited the Bellringer as an inspiration for her deeds. The Vigilant pilgrims coming to soak up the aura that surrounds the exemplar's resting place have taken up arms and are ready to defend the holy site to the death, but such a fight would be a bloodbath. If the Cinders should spill blood on such a sacred memorial, the response from irate pilgrims of Vigilance would not bear thinking about.

As the Cinders move to attack Benson's Orchard, they must first move through the area of Tower March known as Benson's Bawn. It is the responsibility of '''Martin Orchard''', the priest who consecrated Benson's Orchard, to thwart their malice before it can strike.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Delicacies.jpg|caption=The Faraden are proud of their own fine victuals, but also keen to bring the best food and drink from around the world to their tables..|align=right|width=450}}</div>

===Days Of Wine And Mooncheese===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Moonsong Market'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[The Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]] or [[The Barrens#Murderdale|Murderdale]], [[the Barrens]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 [[weirwood]] and 30 [[white granite]], 180 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment for farms in the Barrens by one
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Moonsong Reeve''
* Increases the taxation raised from trade with Faraden by 4 Thrones each season
* Significantly increases the number of Faraden travelling to and visting Dawn</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: LightGreen;">'''Moonsong Reeve'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees Moonsong Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To serve as a liaison between the Faraden visiting Moonsong Market and the people of Dawn; to encourage Faraden merchants to trade with the nation; to smooth over any disputes; to make decisions based on any opportunities related to Moonsong Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' If the Moonsong Reeve is not yeofolk, the great work benefits will be halved</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Moonsong Cheese'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 crowns</td><td>Three common mooncheese and one rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 crowns</td><td>Six common mooncheese and two rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>27 crowns</td><td>Nine common mooncheese and three rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 crowns</td><td>Twelve common mooncheese and four rare mooncheese</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A consortium in Faraden has established a potential deal to trade luxury food in the Barrens.'''
* '''Despite an attempt by the Cinders to sabotage this plan, the actions of Imperial Citizens have demonstrated that Faraden merchants are safe to trade with the Empire.'''

Even as further violence mars relationships between the Empire and Faraden, the siren song of commerce seeks to bring people closer together. Last season, merchants of the Sansar family came to Anvil to speak with the people of Dawn about setting up a trade enclave in the Barrens. Representing a coalition of smaller families, they sought to exploit the opportunities presented by providing rare goods to the eastern Empire and, in so doing, to raise their standing back home.

While the trade talks themselves seem to have gone well, confused reports from Anvil speak of three of the Sansar cousins attending but only two returning, and of drawn blades and plotted murders. When the surviving merchants returned home they apparently brought a tale of horrific treachery: the third of their party had been corrupted by the rage of the Cinders, and plotted to murder them on their journey back to Faraden! Only by the swift action of Imperial law enforcement was this plan foiled. The intention of the Cinders was clear, to scare merchants away from dealing with the Empire. Yet this plan has backfired spectacularly, as the Sansar have not only publicly recommitted to building closer ties with their Imperial friends, but have posted a bounty on all members of the Cinders in vengeance for their heinous acts.

Still, bloodshed makes for poor conversation over the negotiating table, so discussions with the Imperial civil service focus on business. The core of the deal is a pleasingly symmetrical arrangement: Dawnish cloth for Faraden cloth, Dawnish wine for Faraden cheese. Already Seneschals and vintners across Dawn are racing to discover the best wine pairings for the valuable Faraden Mooncheese, a development that is filling the cheesemakers of Faraden with Pride and confidence. There was also an unsurprising interest in purchasing Mithril, for which the Empire’s voracious appetite is well-known.

The plans drawn up off the back of these proposals are, in their most basic nature, similar to the Firewind Market in Holberg. The proposed Moonsong Market, named in honour of the famed Mooncheese, would take 30 wains of weirwood, 30 wains of white granite, and 180 Crowns in labour costs. The Sansar have requested that such a market be built in either [[The Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]] or [[The Barrens#Murderdale|Murderdale]] to be close to the well-defended centres of civilisation. Once constructed, the Moonsong Market would act as a [[great work]] increasing investment in farms across the Barrens. It would also create an [[Imperial title]] - ''Moonsong Reeve'' - that would be responsible for representing Dawn in any negotiations with the Faraden merchants, and smoothing over any issues that arise with their trade in Dawn.

There is one other matter - one that the Faraden are unaware of. As an economic position, the people of Dawn expect the ''Moonsong Reeve'' to be [[Yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]]. If the title is held by a noble, it will result in the benefits of the great work being halved as Dawnish farmers look askance at the Faraden merchants and their association with a noble demeaning the glory of Dawn.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorIronConfederacy.png|caption='''Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo''', Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==The Iron Confederacy==
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
* '''They have recently moved a major military force into the islands off the coast of Feroz
{{Nation|nation=The [[Iron Confederacy]]|port=[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]|status=Foreigner|ambassador=Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo}}
The Suranni lie to the south of the Empire. They are a secretive nation, bound up in tradition and suspicion. While they are currently at peace with the Empire, even accepting merchants and traders into their lands, they are certainly not ''friends''. Recent events have seen them, like the [[Faraden]], caught between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the pro-slavery Freedom Accord. Yet where Faraden feels it must play a delicate balancing act, the Suranni Dukes are more confident in their power and prepared to play Imperial and Asavean interests off against each other.

The Suranni ambassador to the Empire is ''Baroness Katerine Lavasse of Meore'', who operates from the Tour Lavasse in Chaubrette, a territory unknown to Imperial citizens that apparently lies to the west of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]]. A noble [[naga]], she replaced the significantly more dogmatic Jeanne de Hibernat, a High Priestess of the Suranni god [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith, Maiden of the Forge]]. She has already indicated that she is very much more pragmatic than her predecessor and more interested in compromise. She still reports to the Dukes of the Iron Confederacy, however, and so her apparent goodwill toward the Empire cannot be relied upon.
===Suranni Pleasantries===
* '''General pleasantries and diplomatic matters have been touched on
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
Ambassador Tethros has apparently informed Baroness Katerine that the Empire intends to attack [[Skallahn]]. This receives a slightly mixed response; the Suranni ambassador is not herself familiar with northern [[Jotun]] lands. Her response is to congratulate the Empire on seeking to conquer [[orc]] lands, and indicates that the news was met with a great deal of interest among some of the more martial Dukes.

The matter of Faraden was also raised, and Baroness Katerine, perhaps a little surprisingly, agrees that Asavean influence over the neighbouring nation is less than ideal. While the Suranni are capable of keeping the agents of the Plenum at arms' length, and ensuring they gain benefits from their association without becoming tainted, they are less confident that the Faraden can achieve the same.

In somewhat delicate tones, Baroness Katerine writes that the Suranni obviously have their own relationship with Faraden - distinct from the Empire - and their own trade routes. They are exploring their own avenues to reduce Asavean influence, but at this time they are reticent about collaborating with the Empire. With the best will in the world, the Empire's tendency to - no offence - blunder in like a drunk in a glassworks, do not predispose the Suranni to share too much at this time. If the Ambassador can be more specific about proposals for joint action with regard to the Faraden that do '''not''' risk souring the Suranni relationship with the Asaveans unnecessarily, then the Dukes are certainly interested to discuss those plans.

With regard to trade, the Baroness is generally positive about trade with the port of [[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]] and entirely sees where the Ambassador is coming from when they talk of more secure overland trade routes. Suranni merchants have long seen the town of [[Feroz#Fontargenta|Bramar]] in Feroz as the ideal destination for those looking to trade with the Empire. From there the more adventurous could travel to [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]], or even further north across the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep#The_Spider's_Dream|Spider's Dream]] bridge. However, as the Suranni understand it a recent natural disaster has severed easy trade routes between Feroz and the rest of the Empire. Is there any news of when these will be restored? That would likely be the first step toward securing a commitment to a trade [[ministry]] in the Empire.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kobol.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Kobol the Warrior, Maiden of Battle|Kobol the Warrior]] is the uncompromising [[Suranni pantheon|Iron Confederacy god]] of warriors and battle.|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Cazar and the ''Wings of Kobol''===
* '''The Iron Confederacy has smashed the Children of Wrecks in Feroz
* '''Suranni forces have claimed the Cazar Straits for the Confederacy
* '''The Dukes intend to attack Free Landing after the Spring Equinox if the Empire has not dealt with the Wreckers by then
* '''While no treaty has been agreed, Freeborn citizens are free to leave the islands and ships from Feroz can pass through the waters
The Iron Confederacy has invaded [[Feroz]]; or rather they have attacked the Children of Wrecks on the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]]. As laid out in the '''[[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|Red skies]]''' wind of war, the ''Wings of Kobol'' [[navy]] brought two Suranni [[army|armies]] across the border from Kalino and smashed the Wreckers' grasp on the island chain. Those pirates and raiders who were not defeated in battle, or captured and executed, have been forced to flee. Most have gone north to [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]], but some have apparently chosen to quit the [[Bay of Catazar]] altogether. The Cazar Straits are now under the control of the Iron Confederacy.

Following the attack and "liberation" of the islands, Baroness Katerine delivers a message from the Suranni Dukes. It has been too long since the pirates invoked the power of [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Dumon]] to help them seize the islands to the north of Arbonne, which they have been using as a base to attack the coast of the Iron Confederacy. Over a year ago they launched a raid against [[bay of Catazar#Axiom Prison|Axiom Prison]] and released many dangerous prisoners including a large number of corrupt wizards. While there has been some diplomatic attempt to find common ground for a joint effort against the Children, that have come to nothing. With this decisive action, the Iron Confederacy has shown that it will not tolerate criminals and pirates threatening their borders.

Diplomatic channels were used during the Autumn Equinox to inform Imperial officials of the Suranni intentions. During that time there was discussion of a treaty, but after due consideration the Dukes believe that it is too soon to commit to any formal agreement while there is still a major Children of Wrecks presence just north of their lands - by which they pointedly mean their new holdings in the Cazar Straits. The work done at the Autumn Equinox by Baronets ''Marquette Lavasse'' and ''Vauquelin Lavasse'', during which they met informally with multiple Imperial luminaries have indicated that there is certainly a foundation for a formal treaty to secure relations between the Confederacy and the Empire; but the time to discuss it is once the immediate threat is ended.

Baroness Katerine appears to be aware that the Empire planned their own assault on the Children of Wrecks following the Autumn Equinox, but apparently expected it to be aimed at Free Landing. Her missive lays out that the Dukes plan to take a season ensuring that the last corrupt elements are removed from the islands of Cazar. Then, if the Empire has not already dealt with them, they will attack the Wreckers in Free Landing with an eye towards dealing with them as they have their "friends" in the south. It is important for Ambassador Tethros to understand that if the ''Wings of Kobol'' are called on to free the Madrugan islands, they will likewise be considered part of the Iron Confederacy. After that, though, there will be plenty of time to discuss how to proceed. In particular, she wishes to commend [[Senator]] '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''' whose passionate words went some way toward reassuring the Dukes that the Empire was in the process of dealing with the Pirates of Dumon and should be given a little space to do so.

The Baroness does however reiterate that as far as the Dukes are concerned, they have taken enemy territory away from criminals who made war on the Suranni people. The islands of Cazar are now ''theirs'', by right of conquest. This, says Katerine, is not a matter for debate - the facts speak for themselves. The same will be true if they are forced to deal with the pirates of Free Landing.

However, in recognition of the historic presence of the people of [[the Brass Coast]] here, there are certain humanitarian concessions the Dukes have instructed Baroness Katerine to lay out. Any Imperial citizen that was trapped in the Cazar Straits when they were conquered by the Grendel, and then seized by the Pirates of Dumon, is absolutely free to leave; indeed they are encouraged to depart. Suranni ships stand ready to repatriate them to the mainland, and there will be no bar to Freeborn vessels that wish to come collect their countryfolk.

The Iron Confederacy is also open to suggestions about how best to arrange matters with regard to Imperial ships leaving or entering Feroz. Obviously, with control of the Cazar Straits, the Suranni could potentially cut the Freeborn territory off from the Bay of Catazar entirely. There is no reason for them to do so at the moment; indeed Baroness Katerine expresses the hope that recent successes with trade can be built on to encourage Imperial merchants to visit the Straits. This means that there will be no disadvantage to the Freeborn busy rebuilding their homes in the ruined territory from the Suranni.

The [[Civil Service|civil service]] advise that this communication should not be taken entirely at face value. Reading between the lines, it seems that Baroness Katerine isn't ''completely'' happy with the decision of the Dukes. Over the last few years, she has demonstrated a preference for a more nuanced, diplomatic approach to relations with the Empire. At the end of the day though, it is the Dukes who make the decisions. The rulers of the Iron Confederacy are [[naga]], and while they can be [[Naga#Subtle|subtle]], they are still [[Naga#Passionate|passionate]] and [[Naga#Avaricious|avaricious]].

The proposal of a treaty once the Children of Wrecks are finally beaten seems genuine, and it is possible that one of the reasons the Suranni are not rolling straight into Free Landing is to give Ambassador Tethros a chance to put forward a proposal of their own.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Watt of Lambrook.jpg|caption='''Watt of Lambrook''', Minister of Historical Research|align=left|width=300}}</div>

===Marko and the March of History===
* '''Marko Siwarsbairn is ''still'' in the Iron Confederacy'''
The saga of Marko Siwarsbairn continues to drag on. Following the [[Bedight_in_veils#An_Imperial_Historian_in_the_Baronial_Court|dispute]] over the [[historical research]] the [[Wintermark]] scholar had been compiling on Iron Confederacy military history, the Ambassador passed along words from the [[Minister of Historical Research]] '''Watt Lambrook''': "''My researcher is correct that I hold the right to view such reports first. However, since this was understandably not known at the time I will oblige that this once you may also read the report Marko has written before he leaves.''"

Baroness Katerine thanks the Minister for their words, and understands that this is a concession. However as the Winter Solstice draws closer it seems Marko has ''still'' not returned from the Iron Confederacy. A late message to the Imperial embassy indicates that on reading the Siwarsbairn Report it was clear to the Baroness that there were several significant errors and misconceptions in the document. Rather than suggest Marko scrap their hard work and start again, Baroness of Meore has offered the assistance of some of her own staff to correct those errors. She is confident that the report will be much more useful as an artifact of truth, rather than something riddled with errors. She anticipates that unless anything else goes wrong, Marko will be safely back in the Empire with a well-researched document in time for the Spring Equinox.

The Minister need not worry; Baroness Katerine is more than happy to continue to serve as gracious host to Marko Siwarsbairn, and supply the support they need at her own expense. It is the least she can do as a student of history herself, committed to increasing understanding between her nation and the Empire. She also mentions that the gods clearly inspired Marko to make their errors; if they had set off from Meore on schedule this season they would doubtless have ended up caught in the events unfolding in Arbonne.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Dumon.PNG|caption=Dumon the Liar, the Wicked One|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Unfolding in Arbonne===
* '''Arbonne has been subject to a serious Winter curse'''
* '''The priests of the Veiled Shrine claim an oracle has implicated Imperial citizens in the curse'''
* '''Baroness Katerine asks the Ambassador to encourage Imperial citizens to track down those responsible'''
Shortly after the Spring Equinox, the dukedom of Kalino - which the Suranni call Arbonne - was struck with a [[I_wish_you_would#Wicked curses|blight]] that withered crops and saw vermin multiply across the territory. The priests of [[Suranni_pantheon#Kavol,_the_Veiled_King|Kavol]] quickly identified that this was a [[curse]] drawn down by wicked sorcerers working with the aid of the [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Lying God]]. The curse ran its course, and despite some food shortages in Arbonne, the worst appeared to be over. This assumption was, unfortunately, premature.

Just after the Autumn Equinox another curse fell on Arbonne, and this was orders of magnitude worse than the blight that struck in Spring. The first sign was unseasonably bad weather than ruined crops before they could be gathered; it was swiftly followed by a wave of sickness that incapacitated the weak and the strong alike. Then, on the night of the first new moon, demonic angels of Dumon emerged from the shadows bent on murder and corruption. The worst of them took on the forms of dead orcs, the Lasambrians who had once squatted in the hills here. Their witchcraft brought more terror and destruction to the people and serfs of Arbonne. Worse, among their numbers were revenants that appeared in the form of dead Suranni and even in a few cases what looked to be Imperial knights.

This was again seen as a sign that the gods were angry with the Duke of Arbonne, but again the Priests of Kavol investigated the matter and determined that it was nothing more than another terrible curse from the servants of Dumon. This time, though, this reassurance has done little to quell discontent in the territory. Crops fail from time to time, as a test from the gods, but this unspeakable infestation of demons and revenants is an entirely different matter. The position of the Duke of Arbonne is extremely shaky; if a third curse strikes the territory they will have little choice but to step aside in favour of one of their heirs. Baroness Katerine confidently paints the heirs to the current Duke as competent, wise people but there is an edge to her words that suggests she is not entirely confident about what she is saying.
<div style="float: right; max-width: 200px; margin-right: 10px;">{{HoverImage|Seven Locks 2.jpg|Master of Locks.png}}</div>
<div style="float: right; max-width: 200px; margin-right: 10px;">{{HoverImage|WhisperGal004.png|WhisperGal005.png}}</div>
While the curse is bad, it would normally be a matter for the Iron Confederacy to resolve. Unfortunately, there is an unlooked for wrinkle here. Among the priests of Kavol there are some sects charged with specific duties within the Confederacy. The priests of the Veiled Shrine are charged to root out heretics and servants of Dumon who consort with demons. The Veiled God has sent a sign to them, warning them that while the curse comes from the servants of the God of Corruption, they could not have achieved this terrible working without aid. Specifically, through oracles and visionary dreams, Kavol has given a warning that the power to place the curse came from the Empire.

Baroness Katerine is not a fool; she doesn't believe the Empire has cursed Arbonne. There's simply no evidence of it. Unfortunately, the priests of the Veiled Shrine are adamant that there is Imperial entanglement in this event. She asks that the Ambassador do whatever it takes to find out who has provided the Hand of Dumon with the wherewithal to lay a curse of this magnitude on Arbonne. Given that working with the Hand is a crime in the Empire, she presumes that Imperial justice likewise has a vested interest in tracking down whoever it is that is supporting these monstrous sorcerers. The Dukes cannot countenance Imperial support for the Hand of Dumon, and if it comes out that Imperial citizens were flouting the laws made by the Senate in this regard it would shake confidence in those who pointed to the agreement as a positive step in international relations. Which includes Baroness Katerine of course.

Obviously, the one thing every Imperial citizen can be '''absolutely certain''' of, is that "the Veiled God" definitely did not tell the Iron Confederacy anything, ''given they don't actually exist''. However they note that Baroness Katerine refers to "angels" more than once, which is either a [[Astronomancy#Tulpas|tulpa]] or much more likely, a [[herald]] of some [[eternal]] that is up to no good. If it is the latter, the finger of suspicion must point at either [[Basileia]] or the [[Whisper Gallery]], either of which would sell the Empire out in a heartbeat. The City of Locks trades in treachery, espionage and secrets, while the Shadow Courtiers are literally obsessed with secrets. On paper, it is more likely to be the Princess of Weirs; since the Concilium of the Perjured Throne is under enmity, the only way they could be mixed up in all this is if that was being subverted by members of the Conclave.

It's unfortunate that the Empire does not have a workable map of Arbonne, so rituals such as [[Eye of the High Places]] will not be able to find anything useful. From the description, however, it seems that the curse might have been the result of a potent Winter magic ritual of high magnitude - at least eightieth and perhaps higher.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconSumaah.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Sumaah Republic==
* '''The Sumaah Republic is an empire devoted to an orthodox interpretation of the Way'''
* '''The Sumaah Republic remain allies of the Empire in the Liberty Pact
The [[Sumaah Republic]] are simultaneously allies of, and rivals to, the Empire. Their shared practice of the Way both provide them with common ground, and divides them over questions of orthodoxy. As founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]], their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world. In gratitude for [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#A_Bond_Between_Sailors|major aid]] from the Empire in repulsing an Asavean assault against the port of [[Foreign_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]], the Sumaah have committed to sharing a dose of [[Liao#True Liao|true liao]] with the Empire every season "''until the Plenum falls and the Way is spread to the Archipelago''." Relations with the grateful Sumaash, which have been bumpy in the past, are now better than ever.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sumaah Republic]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sumaah_Republic_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]]|ambassador=Accalon of [[Highguard]]}}
The Sumaah ambassador to the Empire is ''Oxtitocszin'', who holds the rank of Censor of wood, metal and stone and is a member of the High House of Pride (the Sumaah equivalent of the Pride Assembly, but with significantly more responsibility and leeway to pursue foreign diplomacy). They advise not just the Sumaah ''präster'', but the House of the People (the Sumaah equivalent of the Imperial Senate). By all accounts they are an even-handed, level-headed individual, and a devout practitioner of the Way.
===Liberty===
* '''The Sumaah are sending a representative to the Liberty Pact meeting'''
The Sumaah are, of course, sending an emissary to the [[Liberty Pact]] meeting. ''Oxtitocszin'' indicates the Sumaah attitude to the Pact has not shifted. They still intend to propose the amendment to the pact [[Drowned_in_tears#Liberty_Pact|mentioned last season]], to centre [[the Way]] in the approach of the Liberty Pact to defeating the evil of slavery. Apparently, the Sumaah representatives to the Pact are a little surprised that the Empire are not raising any amendments to the Pact themselves, but appreciate that this may simply be because the status quo serves their interests more effectively.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Accalon5901.jpg|caption='''Accalon of Felix's Watch''', Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|align=right|width=350}}</div>
Ambassador Accalon's words relating to the removal of Axos from the pact has not inspired them to revisit the matter but they wish the Ambassador to be apprised that they will vote with the Commonwealth on this matter. Unfortunately, Sumaah is not in a position to launch a full-scale invasion of the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. Were there any chance that such an attack might be practical, they would already be undertaking it. Oxtitocszin gently suggests that even if they were holding off for some reason, the Ambassador's proposal that the Empire would help remove Axos from the Pact would by no means be sufficient inducement for them to do so. The Sumaah Republic intends to let virtue guide their approach to the Pact and the Axou, as they do everything else. They would expect the Empire to do the same.

Further details of the Sumaah involvement in the Liberty Pact meeting can be found in the '''[[My soul at liberty]]''' wind of fortune.

===Gift of Pride (Redux)===
* '''The House of the People delayed their shipment of white granite at the request of Ambassador Accalon
* '''After the Winter Solstice there is an opportunity for Imperial fleet captains to escort the shipment to the Brass Coast
At the request of the people of [[the Brass Coast]], as relayed to the Sumaah by Ambassador Accalon, they have delayed the shipment intended to [[Drowned_in_tears#A_Gift_of_Pride|offer aid in rebuilding]]. The white granite is still in the Republic, waiting an escort of Imperial vessels to help it reach the shores of the Bay of Catazar. The House of the People recognises that dealing with the threat of the Children of Wrecks takes priority. The Cardinal of the House of [[Vigilance]], however does append a warning to the Freeborn not to allow the malign power of ''hevn'' to gain a foothold in their souls. "''Hevn''" is apparently an old-fashioned Sumaah term for the power of [[Malign spiritual presences#Vengeance|vengeance]] but with elements of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatered|Hatred]]. The Cardinal reminds their beloved Imperial cousins that to strike against enemies before they can harm you is vigilant but to pursue the destruction of those who have harmed you for selfish reasons is to invite corruption into ones soul.

Regardless, the House of the People have confirmed that the shipments of white granite await an Imperial escort. They warn, however, that they cannot afford to delay their gift for another season. The [[Asavean Archipelago]] already seems to have gotten wind of what is planned, and any further wait will surely see the Sumaah ships attacked and sunk regardless of the presence of Imperial vessels.

You can read about this opportunity in last seasons '''[[Drowned_in_tears#A_Gift_of_Pride|Drowned in tears]]''' wind of fortune.
{{CaptionedImage|file=IconZemress.png |caption=Icon of Zemress|title=Icons of Zemress are popular with sailors who must travel through dangerous waters - both those from the Brass Coast, and the distant Frieøyer.|align=right|width=300}}
===Inspiration of Zemress===
* '''A renowned Frieøyer captain has come to study at the Zemress Naval Academy along Sumaah sailors and shipwrights'''
* '''Their support has helped to unlock the full potential of the Academy and the Empire's naval forces'''
While [[Red skies|war rages]] in the seas of Sarvos and Madruga, a Sumaah ship appears at the docks in [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. It looks a little the worse for wear, showing signs of having sustained significant damage recently. It turns out to be the ship of ''Bjarna Xicot'' of the Frieøyer - the former pirates [[Zemress#A_Tale_from_Sumaah|inspired]] by the paragon [[Zemress]] - who has come to study at the [[Madruga#Zemress_Naval_Academy|Zemress Naval Academy]] along with a boatload of Sumaah students. Unfortunately, along the way, they fell afoul of Asavaean privateers and only just managed to escape with their lives and their vessel.

The Sumaah quickly make themselves at home; the Frieøyer among their number have all fought alongside Imperial fleet captains before, during the [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#A_Bond_Between_Sailors|fight against Asavea]] last year. The others are a combination of pilgrims of [[Prosperity]], scholars, and shipwrights. Sumaah does not have anything to match the naval prowess of Asavea but like the Empire they have their traditions of building warships. Without them, the Asaveans would likely have conquered swathes of their coastline in the centuries of war.

''Bjarna Xicot'' brings with her a gift - or rather, she and her companions ''are'' the gift. A gift not from the House of the People or the High Houses of Virtue but from the Frieøyer themselves. It is in part a gift of gratitude for the Imperial sailors who fought alongside them, partly a gift of Pride, but mostly a gift to recognise the shared love of Zemress between the Frieøyer and the Brass Coast. The artisans and veteran mariners who accompany Bjarna are here to stay, they are eager to study at the Academy and learn what they can from the Freeborn masters of the sea, but they also bring knowledge and skills of their own, which they are enthusiastic to share. They bring with them a small library of plans and books dedicated to the art of the shipwright, translated painstakingly from their original tongue into Imperial.

Studying together, the two groups are able to achieve a breakthrough. The Academy has been steadily creating designs for new warships, trying to match the qualities of the navies of the [[Grendel]] and the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]]. The school has done a remarkable job building up Imperial expertise, but with the information the Frieøyer have provided has helped to ''complete'' that program of study. The academy has discovered everything they can - all that remains now is to put that knowledge into practice.

That means building some navies, but it also means spreading the knowledge they have gained far and wide across the Empire. Excited at the prospects of sharing what they have learned with everyone in the Empire, the Academy soon empties out, as people make arrangements to visit one or more of the other nations. After-all - "all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it."

The main advantage of spreading this knowledge far and wide is that shipwrights will be able to build vessels better suited to a nation's ideals. Local shipwrights can build on the skills and learning shared by the staff of the former Zemress Academy to create something more in keeping with local traditions. Freeborn navies might be well-suited to plunder, while a Dawnish warship might be built for glory!

What that means now, is that any [[navy]] built by the Empire would have access to a set of three or more qualities just like an [[army]]. Going forward, similar to the [[Rules_update_2026#New_Army_Qualities|rules that cover army qualities]], the Senator who musters a navy will be given a list of qualities to choose from reflecting their nation and the narrative surrounding the navy's creation. These will be drawn from the list of standard qualities, but through [[opportunity|opportunities]] or [[appraisal|appraisals]], more unique qualities may be on offer.
<div style="float: right; width: 250px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|width=250px}}</div>
====Legacy====
* '''The Synod lists the Krakens' Bane as a memorial to Zemress'''
* '''The Wreckers destroyed the beautiful seminary constructed in her memory'''
* '''The potential exists to create a truly inspirational memorial to Zemress'''
* '''Any edifice would be more inspirational if the General Assembly recognise Zemress as a paragon'''
The Zemress Naval Academy now stands empty. Its great work complete, the staff have fanned out across the Empire, taking the new learning with them. The power to develop qualities is no longer available or needed. However, the building still stands, and it still attracts the best shipwrights from across the Brass Coast and beyond. This is the site that raised Imperial naval traditions to the point where they could rival - at least in theory - those of the Grendel or the Asaveans. The Frieøyer came half way across the world to study here.

This incredible legacy should be preserved. When the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress_(Destroyed)|Seminary of Zemress]] was destroyed, the ''Kraken's Bane'' was left untouched. It bears a [[Aura#Durable_Auras|true aura]] of Prosperity, [[A_time_of_plenty#Coin_that_Goes_Unspent|placed there by Gilah, daughter of the Chantry]] with the approval of the Assembly of Prosperity. The beautiful building that once celebrated the life of this iconic Freeborn hero was destroyed, but the potential exists to rebuild it into something even more inspirational.

No true liao would be needed, but a new [[edifice]] of some kind is needed. The more [[Edifice#Grandeur|grandiose]] the building, the more inspirational it would be. However, the other thing that would help to remind everyone of the importance of the site, is if the Freeborn were able to convince the General Assembly to recognise Zemress as a paragon. After-all... what more powerful a legacy could exist than the triumph of the Zemress Naval Academy?

Freeborn architects intend to bring a range of plans forward to create a new building to celebrate Zemress' life later this year. They want to give their fellow Freeborn time to persuade the Synod of the truth of their claims - that Zemress i Ezmara i Erigo has passed through the Labyrinth. If the Synod act to recognise Zemress as a paragon, they will publish their ideas before the next summit, otherwise they will publish them in a year's time.

===OOC Note===
The Zemress Naval Academy, and its approach to determining qualities for navies, was rooted in an earlier vision of how navies worked. As we've developed our approach to armies, it's become more clear that we should be treating navies in the same way we do armies - that they should have strong identities tied to the nation that supports them. As such, the existing abilities of the Academy to build up a small list of qualities based on the design of the ships themselves has become outmoded. The in-character rationale for the rules change is that the arrival of the Frieøyer has helped the Academy achieve its ultimate goals and allowed them to spread knowledge of advanced ship-building right across the Empire.

Rather than simply have the Naval Academy become a white elephant, we'll present an opportunity to build on the consecrated location dedicated to Zemress later this year, to give the Empire an opportunity to rededicate the site with a new purpose.

==Tsark==
* '''The people of Tsark keep the Empire at arms' length
* '''The Imperial Consul is technically responsible for diplomatic relations with the Mountains of the Moon
During the Autumn Equinox, a delegation from the [[Tsark|Mountains of the Moon]] visited [[Bedight_in_veils#The_People_of_the_Moon|visited Anvil]]. They spoke with a number of people, and by all accounts the discussions were somewhat fruitful. The people of Tsark - the [[orc]] nation that occupies the shallow basin surrounded by the Mountains - have so far kept the Empire very much at arms' length. Following their visit, however, they have made an approach to the civil service and asked their assistance in preparing some proposals to put before the Empire.

===Garden of the Perfect World===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of the Perfect World'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Ministry</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]], [[Zenith]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 15 [[weirwood]], 45 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Seeker of the Perfect World''
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Seeker of the Perfect World'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Urizen National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Urizen National Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees the Garden of the Perfect World</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To look after the Garden of the Perfect World, and to help the people of Tsark trade with the Empire</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' The benefits are lost if the Empire and Tsark are no longer friendly</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Wood and Stone'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>4 weirwood</td><td>4 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>6 weirwood</td><td>6 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>8 weirwood</td><td>8 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Spirits and Stone'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 liao</td><td>1 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>90 liao</td><td>2 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>150 liao</td><td>3 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''There is an opportunity to build a ministry to trade for Tsark's white granite
Tsark resists the idea of an [[embassy]]. By all accounts they see the Empire as a place of chaos and turmoil, very much at odds with the ordered and harmonious life they lead in the high mountains east of [[Urizen]].For centuries they have hidden away from Imperial eyes, discouraging anyone from visiting their home with mighty fortifications and memory-altering drugs. Now, however, it seems that they are prepared to countenance some limited trade with Imperial citizens, with an eye toward acquiring substances that are rare or unknown in Tsark. With the aid of the civil service they have put forward a proposal for the grandiosely titled ''Garden of the Perfect World''.

The garden would be a special [[ministry]] built in the foothills of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] in southern [[Zenith]]. They expect the Empire to undertake the construction. Despite its majestic name, the actual commission requires only 15 wains of weirwood and 45 crowns in labour. It would take three months to complete. It takes the form of a meditative garden, built in the style of Tsark. Quiet chimes are hung from carefully selected trees, and what appears to be a traditional Tsark meeting hall stands along the southern side of the garden. The commission also involves beautiful flowering plants, some from Urizen and some from Tsark.

Once complete the Mountains of the Moon would create the title ''Seeker of the Perfect World'' to oversee it. They would be responsible for trading with the people of Tsark, and where the folk of the Mountains of the Moon reached out to the Empire they would be asked to facilitate any diplomacy or negotiations. It sounds a little like what they really want is an ambassador, but the leaders of Tsark are clear they do not. It seems they are concerned that they would have to build a reciprocal embassy themselves, and allow Imperial citizens into their lands, which they will not do.

The garden allows the ''Seeker of the Perfect World'' access to a ministry that lets them exchange their [[white granite]] from the [[Mountains_of_the_Moon#Kamen_Quarry|Kamen Quarry]] for Imperial [[weirwood]]. They are also interested in acquiring some amount of [[liao]] - a substance not found in Tsark - for use by the human citizens of their nation. They are aware that the quantities they are asking for are quite significant and understand if the Empire doesn't want to take advantage of the trade.

Obviously as a ministry supported by a foreign nation, the ability to trade resources with Tsark is entirely dependant on continued diplomatic relations. Aware that the Empire is, perhaps rightly, concerned about what will happen if Tsark chooses to close itself off from the world again, they have agreed that if they end their trade with the Empire for any reason they will provide 15 wains of white granite to the Seeker of the Perfect World before they do so to pay for the resources spent in the construction of the ministry. If the Empire ends trade, of course, they will not feel the need to provide any restitution at all.

The opportunity remains available until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE.

===Zaboravi===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Peaceful Quietitude'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Sinecure</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Wintermark]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 12 [[weirwood]], 36 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a sinecure and the title of ''Seeker of the Perfect World''
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Seeker of Quietitude'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Wintermark National or Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Wintermark National Assembly or Imperial Apothecaries' Guild</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives 12 doses of zaboravi each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversees the Garden of Peaceful Quietitude; help cultivate zaboravi in Wintermark</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Tsark will help the people of Wintermark cultivate zaboravi
* '''The sinecure must be built in an alpine territory, in a region with hills and hot springs
The people of Tsark make use of an exotic drug called ''Zaboravi'' that has remarkable properties. Used correctly, it allows an individual to edit their own memories in a manner similar to [[Cast Off The Chain of Memory]]. According to the folk from the Mountains of the Moon, [[Night magic]] is a crude tool for altering one's memories, equivalent to a spade or a pickaxe - partly because of the raw magic involved and partly because the impetus to forget comes from outside the self. Zaboravi is a more gentle, harmonious way to alter ones recollections, because all it does is empower the one who uses it to choose how to shape their own remembered past.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBWintermark.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}</div>
There has been discussion of seeing if the plant that produces zaboravi will prosper in [[Wintermark]]; the farmers there have already had some success with cultivating ''viezesmaak'' for the [[Sarcophan Delves]], and there is interest in seeing if they might be able to do the same with the Tsark drug. There is talk of zaboravi being invaluable to [[surgical skills#Physick|physicks]] dealing with people suffering emotional or spiritual wounds caused by terrible events. Tsark is broadly positive about facilitating such a thing - they are not jealous of their control of zaboravi and see the value of using it to help those whose spirits are in discord find peace.

Again, with the help of the civil service, they have put forward a proposal for a [[commission]] in [[Wintermark]]. The ''Garden of Peaceful Quietude'' is a [[sinecure]] that will require 12 wains of weirwood and 36 crowns in labour to complete, taking three months to construct. It will create a title - ''Seeker of Quietude'' - who will oversee the efforts to cultivate zaboravi. Each season, the gardeners of Tsark believe it will produce 12 doses of zaboravi for the Seeker, presuming that the location is conducive and the gardeners follow their instructions to the letter. The initial proposal from Tsark is that the Seeker of Quietude be appointed by the Wintermark National Assembly - zaboravi is after all a spiritual substance. The civil service however have pointed out that as a unique herb it might be more appropriate to see the title appointed by the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]]. Tsark has indicated that it is happy either way as long as the drug is treated with the reverence they feel it deserves. Notably, once the plant is established, however, its continued cultivation will require no further interaction with Tsark, so it will not be dependant on good relations continuing with the nation.

The only real restriction they place on it is that for the zaboravi to prosper it needs three things; a cool climate, as much altitude as possible, and access to geothermal hot springs. Apparently the folk of Wintermark that the visitors spoke to were confident they knew just the place.

The civil service have assessed the proposal, and indicated that the plans the people of Tsark have provided could also allow similar gardens to be built in other alpine locations - specifically [[Skarsind]], northern [[Hercynia]], and northern [[Varushka]]. The main challenge would be finding suitable locations, which would require an [[appraisal]]. The only limitation would be that such an appraisal couldn't be undertaken until the Empire had a source of the plant itself - so not until the ''Garden of Peaceful Quietude'' was completed.

===Ushabti and Rice===
* '''Some folk in Tsark are interested in both Ushabti and the Golden Cascade
* '''Further discussion waits the completion of the Garden of the Perfect World
During their visit, the subject of both [[Urizen_economic_interests#Ushabti|ushabti]] and the [[Zenith#Proceris|Golden Cascade]] were raised. By all accounts the visitors from Tsark were interested, but cautious. The leaders of the nation have determined that while they are curious about both the odd constructs that seem to work best at high altitude, and the ambitious great work that provides food for much of Zenith and indeed the nation as a whole, any further discussion will have to wait until the ''Garden of the Perfect World'' is completed. Or not, as the case may be.
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tarquinius Ankarien.jpg|caption=Tarquinius Ankarien (left), former [[Ambassador to Axos]], has apparently been charged to speak with the Skourans by the Imperial Consul.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
==Skoura==
* '''The nation of Skoura lies to the east of Mareave
* '''While they are keeping the Empire at arms' length the two nations are at peace
* '''The Imperial Consul is responsible for diplomacy with Skoura
The message from Talker Garra, Delvemistress of Skoura, that arrives in Mareave midway through the season is neatly written on tough parchment. It begins by thanking '''Tarquinius Ankarien''' for their understanding - they would indeed prefer to deal with the [[Imperial Orcs]] as much as possible and would prefer that if the [[Imperial Consul]] chooses to delegate communication they do so with that in mind. The Unshackled are their neighbours, and there is still some distance to go before Skoura is entirely happy dealing with the wider Empire. The Delvemistress is happy to trust the good sense of '''Pathfinder Gaddak''' in this matter.

Establishing a permanent [[embassy]] would be a significant step in relations between the mountainfolk and the Empire - and one that they are not entirely sure they are ready to make. Accepting an Imperial [[ambassador]] would be a serious matter, and would mean that their interaction with Imperial citizens will have evolved beyond the point of a small number of trade agreements with the people of [[Mareave]]. The first question that Talker Garra has is, can the Imperial Consul confirm that the Empire is prepared to commit to appointing an Unshackled to the position, at least for the time being? The second question is, what form would the Empire expect an embassy to take, and what commitments would be required from Skoura? Obviously they would require any embassy to be built in Mareave; presumably the Empire would expect an embassy to be built in Skoura as well? In all honesty, writes Delvemistress Garra, the fact that the Empire changes its ambassadors often is seen as something of a problem with the more conservative members of their nation. Needing to re-establish relations each time a new ambassador is appointed represents a significant investment of time and trust.

The Skourans are pleased to hear that the Empire has no intention of sending spies into their lands. The Skourans are a private people - it is not that they have things to hide so much as that they would prefer to build their relationship with the Empire carefully, and on a foundation of mutual trust.

===Trade and Artisans===
* '''The Geltcourse Trade Security Council have confirmed they are willing to investigate further trade with the Imperial Orcs'''
* '''They require the Senate to recognise the Artisans Guild as an Imperial sodality before further plans are developed'''
There is one matter that could, apparently, increase Skouran enthusiasm for building that relationship more quickly. The ''Geltcourse Trade Security Council'' first visited Anvil six months ago, at the [[I_wish_you_would#To_Mahal_from_the_Mines|Summer Solstice 387YE]]. There, they discussed the nature of trade and the potential for long-term trade with the Imperial Orcs in Mareave. The Geltcourse Trade Security Council have finished their deliberations and is interested in a formalised arrangement.

However, the Geltcourse Trade Security Council are one and all respectful of the art of the [[artisan]], and the inherent strength that comes with a recognised central authority. As such, they are unwilling to go further with a formal arrangement unless the Artisans Guild is recognised as an [[Imperial sodality]] by the [[Senate]] and ratified by [[the Throne]]. The representative of the Geltcourse Trade Security Council makes clear that this is ''not'' a slight on the Unshackled; they sincerely hope to have future dealings with the orcs of Mareave. Unfortunately, this is a red line for the Geltcourse Trade Security Council if they are to cultivate trade with the Empire as a whole rather than just their neighbours on the lower slopes.

===Defensive War===
* '''Skoura is prepared to send 500 troops to support Rucraic's Redoubt following the Winter Solstice
* '''In return they require a payment of 50 measures of dragonbone
The discussion about armies and "defensive war" is interesting, and does indeed show how different the strategies of Skoura and the Empire have become. Most Skourans would see armies as something that supplements the sturdy [[fortification]] of a territory, an adjunct to the defence rather than the primary component. Fortunately, given that the Unshackled have completed [[Mareave#Ruicraic's Redoubt|Ruicraic's Redoubt]], it is that much more likely they will be able to resist the Grendel.

With that in mind, the Delvemistress offers to dispatch a cadre of Skouran war-engineers to Rucraic's Redoubt, to bolster the [[fortification#garrison|garrison]] there and help to fight the Grendel. After some further questions, the civil service determine that a "cadre" in this case represents a fighting strength of 500, equivalent to five military units. In return, the Skouran commanders require 50 measures of [[dragonbone]], delivered in advance by either the Imperial Consul or Senator Pathfinder. Given the situation, the Delvemistress mentions that if they are prepared to provide an additional thirty crystal mana as well, she will ensure that the cadre is suitable enchanted with the might of the mountains - sufficient to increase the strength they will contribute to 1000 force. ('''OOC Note:''' If the Consul or the Senator wishes to take up this offer, they will need to ensure the resources are handed in at the end of the event and then email {{plot}} to confirm they wish them to be transferred to Skoura).

The Skouran Talker suggests that while this military support is not great given the scale the Empire works on, it is as much about testing the waters as anything else. It will also give the warrior-engineers an opportunity to examine the stonework of Rucraic's Redoubt, which they apparently see as an additional benefit.
==Further Reading==
* [[Faraden]]
* [[Iron Confederacy]]
* [[Sumaah Republic]]
* [[Tsark]]
* [[Skoura]]

A wild night and a new road

2026-04-11T18:47:07Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: Adding mud to the opening story. Please check

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>Out of the corner of her eye, De Leeuw watched the Imperial merchant poring over the glass cases with the bounty of rings, necklets, and more exotic adornments that filled her shop. She hadn't seen the like before. He'd paused outside to make use of the boot scraper, and the mud had sloughed off his shoes once he saw the sable carpet. Someone who knew how to get around a marsh, mused De Leeuw. A nice change. Most of the Imperials she had dealt with were smartly dressed League merchants or brightly coloured Freeborn. Often as not they were unfamiliar with the realities of the Delves, and invariably tracked mud into her shop. Not this fellow, though.

She kept being drawn to the mask he was hearing, though. A thing of bone and feathers, with a beak like a crows. She itched to ask if it was a real beak or not - she couldn't tell. Most of her clients wore a little jewellery and the Imperial was no exception; uncharacteristically though he seemed to eschew gold and silver, preferring dragonbone and what looked to be polished flint. Strange choices, Yet she didn't doubt he had the money to be here; his coat and trousers were beautifully decorated and spoke of prosperity and position.

At last he spoke. "I was wondering about these pieces," he said casually. She smiled inwardly. She had made a bet with herself that this was what he was here for. She smoothly moved over, lifting the glass bell jar that covered her new pieces.

"You are a person of discernment," she said in fluent Imperial (it always paid to address a customer in their own language). "These are fine pieces indeed, especially for someone versed in magic. See here? This necklace is of orichalcum and tempest jade; a beautiful piece you'll agree. Yet its true value lies in its provenance - each of the jewels bears a tiny portion of starlight from certain stars. If you know what you are doing, that starlight can be used to cast potent healing spells beyond what any normal magician could attempt."

"And this one?" He pointed to the ring, set with a single eleven black stones that looked like onyx but were not.

"Oh, you have a good eye!" She flattered the customer without even thinking about it, putting the necklace down and lifting up the ring to show him how it sparkled in the light. "You may find it hard to believe, but these gems are also chips of tempest jade, treated with beggar's lye in a secret fashion that causes the colour to leech from them. The ring itself is dragonbone, polished with ambergelt. A wearer versed in the arts of death can draw on the unlight of the Unfortunate Sailor to command the dead to speak, and they cannot resist. A rare piece indeed."

The mask-wearing Imperial pondered her words, and reached out to take the ring. He was polite enough not to touch it without permission; De Leeuw nodded. He handled it carefully as if afraid it might break. Up close, the Sarcophan jeweller could see the dark green scales spilling out from under his mask. A naga.

"And do you craft these yourself?" He asked, although there was something in his tone that told the canny shopkeeper he already knew the answer.

"Oh no, I'm afraid not." She smiled cheerfully. "Many of the articles here are either salvaged by agents, or made in-house. Not these ones, though. These come from far across the sea. From a nation of magicians. I will not be gauche enough to name it given the current political differences between your people and theirs..."

He nodded slowly.

"These difficulties give your people an opportunity for significant profit it seems."

She flashed him another smile, revealing even more of her razor-sharp teeth this time. "Indeed it does," she said. "But at the end of the day there is always profit in taking things from places others cannot or will not go, and selling them on. That case over there for example bears pearl rings recovered at no small danger from the wreck of the ''Edmund Fitzgerald'' for example, drowned fifty years ago in the Sea of Teeth. You will find similar treasures throughout the quarter. These are simply recovered from a slightly drier place, with a different kind of danger."

He seemed preoccupied. There was something else.

"Are you interested in the star jewels then?" she asked.

"I am... but I am also interested in something else." He cleared his throat. "Something... less polished?"

She raised an eyebrow. "I'm sorry? I don't follow?"

"Something in the line of... condiments." He did not look at her as he asked. She resisted laughter.

"Oh I see! I see your problem immediately of course but I'm afraid I only sell jewellery. You'll be hard pressed to find anyone in the Jakhalsmarkt who carries what you are looking for, if I understand you right."

He sighed. She got the impression that De Leeuw's was not the first establishment he had visited asking about Jarmish... condiments.

"I am sorry to have wasted your time then," he said. "I will be on my way."

As he turned, she tutted and leant forward, laying one ivory-pale hand on his sleeve.

"So hasty, you Imperials," she said. "I said ''I'' didn't carry... condiments. I didn't say I couldn't ''help'' you."

He turned round. De Leeuw smiled like a happy shark.

"But first let's talk about which of my delicious star jewels you are going to buy. And then we can talk of... condiments."</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorSarcophanDelves.jpg|caption='''Dino i Riqueza''', Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves|align=left|width=300}}
==Overview==
Each season the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the Senate and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

The merchant-princes of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - the ''bedelaar huisbaas'' - strive for neutrality. They are enthusiastic about trade with the Empire, but their neutrality is precious to them. They hold it a mark of pride that they will deal with anyone who has goods, services, or money. While they have given up the practice of slavery without regret, they refuse to pick a side between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the Freedom Accord. Their primary goal is to ensure the ports of the world remain open to their ships, ideally with [[Tariffs#Free_Trade|free trade]] agreements that allow their merchants to operate without onerous [[tariffs]]. They have recently declared the ''Pax Sarcophan'' - a commitment to combat piracy and ensure that independent traders are free to sail [[the seven seas]] regardless of the politics of the great powers.

The Sarcophan ambassador to the Empire is ''Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike'', of the Tower of Crows. She reports to the beggar-landlords of Sarcophan, and is known to be a wily and subtle diplomat. No stranger to the murkier waters of espionage and intelligence-gathering, she constantly seeks opportunities to expand the influence of the Sarcophan mercantile Empire across the Known World. She has no particular loyalty to any one faction; her main concern appears to be the prosperity of the nation as a whole.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sarcophan Delves]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Sarcophan|Sarcophan]] and [[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Betovering|Betovering]]|ambassador= Dino i Riqueza of [[the Brass Coast]]}}
==Polite Correspondence==
* '''The usual pleasantries have been exchanged between the Empire and the Delves
* '''The Delves remain concerned about the proscription of consuming human meat but have been reassured by the Ambassador
* '''Interest in investing in the Celesti Lighthouse remains strong for the time being
* '''Snowstorm Henk has safely arrived in the Delves to begin research into Sarcophan knowledge of sea-based eternals
* '''There is news of a visiting delegation from Beoraidh supported by the Delves planning to visit Anvil during the Winter Solstice
Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike thanks the Ambassador for their advice around the funerary traditions of Sarcophan and how they might conflict with Imperial law. They understand the difficulty created by the van de Moerassen request, and appreciate Amassador Dino offering their advice. Hopefully this - and similar - matters can be dealt with sensibly going forward.

[[Historical_research#Snowstorm_Henk|Snowstorm Henk]] has arrived safely in the Delves following the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Research_Eternals_of_the_Sea|commission of research]] by '''Watt of Lambrook''', the [[Minister of Historical Research]]. Funds to support the expedition have been provided by the Senate, and the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] researcher has by all accounts been warmly received. They are busy speaking with [[Sarcophan_Delves#Magic|zielweven]] about their knowledge of Khobel Tavah in particular. Their report is due shortly before the Spring Equinox.

There is still Sarcophan interest in investing in the expansion of the [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], but it is contingent on the Senate commissioning the lighthouse as a significant fortification to protect Oran. The commission actually completed represents a more modest structure albeit one with a magically imbued beacon thanks to the [[eternal]] [[Kimus]]. While Bedelaar-Huisbaas Annike confirms interest, she cautions that it will be all too easy for investors to shift their attention elsewhere - perhaps to the city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] and suggests that if the expansion of the lighthouse is not commissioned by the end of the Spring equinox the opportunity will be lost. For now details of the arrangement remain as laid out in the '''[[All_the_night-tide#Investment_in_the_Brass_Coast|in the night-tide]]''' wind of fortune.

On the subject of Beoraidh, the Ambassador has also raised the matter of Sarcophan involvement in the little city-state. Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike has discussed the Ambassador's suggestions with the entrepreneurs involved in Mareave, and stresses that the Delves is excited by the opportunities presented by the city-state and can't wait to start developing their presence there. Yet at the same time they have no interest in antagonising their Imperial friends; the Delves has every interest in smoothing relations between the Empire and Beoraidh. Indeed, partly thanks to their influence, some representatives of Beoraidh are planning to visit Anvil during the Winter Solstice to speak with their [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] neighbours. Some of the Delves merchants dealing directly with the folk of western Mareave will be supporting them.

As Beoraidh is an independent state, it is Annike's understanding that the [[Imperial Consul]] will be dealing with any diplomatic matters relating to them. Obviously Annike hopes that the Ambassador and the Consul can liaise on any other concerns they have about Sarcophan involvement in Beoraidh. Further information about the situation with Beoraidh can be found in the '''[[TBC]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Canis aureus syriacus.jpg|align=right|width=300}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Buidelrats.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>

==Jackals, Ports, and Buidelrats==
* '''Trade with Jakhalsmarkt has been something of a success and extended for another season at least
* '''The Commonwealth seem unaware that Imperial traders are buying goods explicitly created by Jarmish crafters
* '''The house of the Buidelrat are pestering Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike about their proposal to open the port of Moeraskriden
During the Autumn Equinox, the ''Annabel de Gouden'' of the [[Founders of the Delves#The Jackal|House of the Jackal]] secured access for Imperial traders to the [[All_the_night-tide#Jakhalsmarkt|Jakhalsmarkt]]. Masters of the jewel-trade in the Delves, the various families of the Jackal House are experts in acquiring, evaluating, and securing markets for precious materials and ornaments. Annabel de Gouden was apparently pleased with the response of Imperial captains - and especially impressed by enthusiastic reports of dealings with several [[Wintermark]] captains particularly one '''Bron Mordssen''' whose impressive ships drew quite a stir when they arrived in [[Foreign_ports#Betovering|Betovering]] where the Jakhalsmarkt is located.

Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike confided in the Ambassador that as long as the trade proved lucrative, de Gouden would likely keep the port open. That has indeed proven to be the case, with Annabel cheerfully claiming that it was her plan all along to provide Imperial access at least until the end of the year (which was not what she said in her original proposal). As such, Imperial fleets can continue to visit the Jakhalsmarkt after the Winter Solstice, and potentially even longer if the demand is there.

Obviously, the crow in the parlour is that one of the draws of the Jakhalsmarkt are the ''star jewels'' - magical jewellery bought by Sarcophan traders in the [[Principalities of Jarm]] and sold at a reasonable mark-up to Imperial citizens. The trade here is a little less cut and dried than that taking place in the [[When_peace_was_far_away#Free_Port|port of Radosmo]] but the Commonwealth may not see a difference - especially given they are already [[The_price_is_great#Liberty|apparently quite annoyed]] about the trade in Zemelso. Buying goods that are definitely Jarmish still puts money in the pockets of the Magician-Princes after all.

While the Jakhalsmarkt has been a success, Annike admits to being pestered by the [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Buidelrat|House of the Buidelrat]] regarding an agreement they [[All_the_night-tide#Moeraskriden|proposed]] to allow Imperial captains access to the port of ''Moeraskriden''. In return, they requested the [[dissemination]] of some ritual texts related to herbs by the [[Conclave]]. They have apparently heard nothing. In traditional diplomatic fashion, the Bedelaar Huisbaas of the Tower of the Crow has passed the pestering on. Can Ambassador Dino offer any information about Conclave deliberations on this matter? Is there some other agreement that might be more palatable to the [[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]]? Or should the Buidelrat just accept that there is no interest in their offer and move on (and stop pestering the Tower of the Raven)?

Both the [[All_the_night-tide#Jakhalsmarkt|Jakhalsmarkt]] and the proposed deal for access to [[All_the_night-tide#Moeraskriden|Moeraskriden]] are described in more detail in the '''[[All the night-tide]]''' wind of fortune from last event.
{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs_Colour.png|align=right|width=300}}

==Children of Wrecks==
* '''The Sarcophan Delves are prepared to offer support in fighting the Children of Wrecks if it is required'''
* '''The Ambassador to the Delves, Senator for Sarvos, or Senator for Madruga can enlist their aid at the cost of 12 Thrones'''
* '''They insist they will only fight as part of a force that is supported by the Imperial Guerdon'''
Along with the Ambassador, some private individuals - including apparently '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''' the [[Senator]] for [[Sarvos]] - wrote to thank Sarcophan for their intervention during the [[Those_that_break_a_thing#Battle_of_Trivento|attack on Trivento]] by the Children of Wrecks during Summer. Two dozen Sarcophan vessels supported the [[Red Wind Corsairs]], driven by a palpable disdain for pirates and cutthroats. Most of these vessels were from the Alivetti estates, but several belonged to the [[Prime_Factor_of_the_deBruin_Docks#deBruin_Docks|deBruin]]. Annike thanks the Empire for their kind words, but plays down Sarcophan involvement as being "merely good business sense".

However, the DeBruin family are keen to offer mercenary support toward any attack on the Children of Wrecks - specifically securing [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]]. Experienced in fighting from boats and around islands, the DeBruin are also apparently ''well'' up for kicking the snot out of the Children of Wrecks, who they see as the worst kind of pirate - indiscriminate and savage. Assuming the Empire wants their aid. As Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike notes, the Empire's ship captains have their own bones to pick over with regard to the servants of ''Hullbreaker''.

If they want DeBruin aid, the Ambassador themselves, the [[Senator]] for [[Madruga]] '''Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza''', or the Senator for [[Sarvos]] (the aforementioned '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''') can indicate as such in a missive to Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike. They can specify which [[army]] or [[navy]] they want the DeBruin to support, or leave it to the Sarcophan to allocate their own forces. Regardless, the expertise and resources of the DeBruin will add an additional 1,500 effective strength to any attack on [[Madruga#Free_Landing|Free Landing]]. They will participate in the next attack, provided it takes place before the start of Summer.

Their aid will cost 12 Thrones, paid in advance. ('''OOC Note:''' If the Ambassador or one of the senators wishes to take advantage of this offer, they can do so by emailing {{plot}} and ensuring the 12 Thrones are in their inventory after the event. If more than one person does this, they'll take a portion of their payment from each). However, they have an additional requirement - that they are up-front about. For ethical reasons, they will only participate in an attack against the Children of Wrecks if the force they support receives a portion of the [[Military_unit#Guerdon_Shares|Imperial guerdon]]. They won't claim it themselves - the DeBruin will act if they're paid the agreed amount of money for their involvement - but as a matter of principle, they won't fight alongside other soldiers who are "not being paid for risking their lives." It's an odd point of order for the Delves, but one they are quite adamant about.

In the equally unlikely event that the Children of Wrecks manage to fight off the might of the Empire, they're happy to commit troops each season until the Wreckers are dealt with and Free Landing is back in Imperial hands - provided they are paid each season and the force they support receives the Imperial Guerdon, of course.

==Alivetti Estates Five Years On==
* '''It is the five-year anniversary of the Sarcophan enclave in Sarvos
* '''The enclave appears to be prospering despite magisterial dissatisfaction with many of the goods sold there
It has been five years since the [[Sarvos#Sarcophan_Enclave|Alivetti estate]] enclave in [[Sarvos]] was established. [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Sarcophan_Delves_Autumn_383YE|Conceded by treaty]] in late 383YE, the first new buildings were completed shortly before the Winter Solstice of that year. The ruined estates that once belonged to the guild of [[Empress Giselle]] have been transformed; Sarcophan engineers with experience draining marshes and building on flooded ground have constructed towers in the Sarcophan style which now now rise over both carefully preserved ruins and newly expanded docks.

For the most part relations between the Sarcophan and their Imperial neighbours have been cordial - beneficial even. The magistracy is still frustrated that the Sarcophan refuse to stop selling things the Empire considers illegal to visitors who want to buy them, but the treaty leaves no opportunity for them to enter Alivetti without an invitation. Mostly Imperial visitors are sensible enough to consume the drugs they buy ''in situ'' rather than try smuggling them back into the Empire proper. Mostly.

Much - but by no means all - of the trade that passes through Alivetti consists of herbs, medicinal potions, and luxuries from various parts of the Known World. Business is booming, and news has reached the Ambassador's office that ''Burgemeester Vandersaar'' plans a lavish party to celebrate five years of prosperity and opportunity.
{{WingedMessenger|address=Missives pertinent to the Alivetti Estates can be directed to ''Burgomeester Oudolf Vandersaar, Duifstraat, Alivetti Estates, Sarvos''. The Burgomeester has made it clear that the life of a Sarcophan burgomeester is a hectic one and replies are likely to be short when they relate to anything other than the enclave. Business with Sarcophan citizens trading from the enclave would be best addressed to them directly, and anything related to the wider Sarcophan Delves should go through Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike.}}
===Prosperity and Opportunity===
* '''The Sarcophan are having a party at the Alivetti estates
* '''Imperial citizens, especially those of Sarvos, are invited to attend and discuss business
* '''Immediately after the Winter solstice a new diversification option is available
Burgemeester Vandersaar invites their neighbours not only in Sarvos but in [[Tassato]], [[Casinea]], [[Necropolis]], and [[Madruga]] to attend the upcoming party. They plan to celebrate in style, with a weeklong festival of drinking, music, recreation, theatrical performances, urban athletic events, and new business discussions. Festivities will start the week after the Winter Solstice. A traditional cleaning-out event will be held in which Sarcophan citizens engage in a flurry of cleaning that culminates in bonfires where rubbish - literal and metaphorical - is burnt. It will end with a traditional ''rat run'' in which business owners don rat masks and sack cloth and skulk through the streets pursued by children who can demand sweets and other treats if they catch them.

There is also an old tradition that any deals struck during a festival such as this are as binding as those arranged when both participants are sober. This custom is usually observed by a resolution among participants not to make any ''important'' deals during this time and restrict themselves to minor agreements and contracts, but there are always stories of people who have bartered their ways into a fortune in an inebriated state (or lost the same, of course).

This presents an opportunity to citizens of the nations invited - [[the League]], [[Highguard]], and [[the Brass Coast]]. [[Business]] owners from one of these three nations who attend the festivities will be able to secure small but potentially valuable deals. After the Winter Solstice any player whose character owns a [[business]] in one of these nations can choose a free [[Business#Diversification|diversification]] option. Their business provides 36 rings fewer, but will instead provide two random ingots, two random measures, or two random herbs each downtime (as chosen by the player).

Furthermore, following the Winter solstice, every business owner in Sarvos, Tassato, Madruga, Casinea, and Necropolis will receive two doses of a random consumable acquired from the Alivetti Estates. These consumables represent either treats picked up during the party, or goods acquired after the event from Imperial citizens who did attend. Most of these consumables will be harmless - but there is a chance some will not be legal in the Empire. The magistrates, already a little stretched, will find it almost impossible to prevent Imperial citizens bringing illegal goods out of Alivetti intentionally or accidentally. ('''OOC Note:''' Business owners who wish to ensure they have nothing to do with this dubious activity should hand these consumables back to GOD when they collect their pack).
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Freeborn.png|align=right|width=190}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Highborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}
===Party Planning===
* '''The National Assemblies of the three nations could discourage their citizens from attending
* '''Alternatively they could wholeheartedly embrace and contribute to the ceremonies
* '''Burgemeester Vandersaar plans to give a gift to the people of Sarvos if the festivities are well attended
The celebrations of the enclaves' founding provides an opportunity for the neighbouring nations to consider their relationship with the Sarcophan Delves. During the Winter Solstice the League, Highborn, and Freeborn National Assemblies can take the opportunity to either enthusiastically support or clearly discourage participation in the anniversary celebrations using a [[mandate]]. If they do not, then their citizens will attend or not as they see fit, with the effects described above. If they do enact a mandate the outcome will depend on which approach they take.

An assembly might discourage their people from attending by reminding their citizens of the importance of following Imperial law and the danger of celebrating with heretics and blasphemers,

{{Mandate|mandate=The Sarcophan folk of the Alivetti estates celebrate their enclave, but we must all remain Vigilant to the threats it may represent. While they seem to be honest traders, their ways are not our ways, and their faith is very different to ours. Their refusal to acknowledge Imperial law is a challenge to the Empire and we send (named priest) with 25 liao to urge all virtuous citizens who must attend this gathering to keep their wits about them and remain alert for threats within and without.|assembly=Highborn, Freeborn, or League National Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, individual player characters from the nation can roleplay that they attend, but there will be no opportunities for them to diversify their business, and no consumables will be received by businesses near the enclave. It will also send a message to the Alivetti estates that while that nation tolerates them, they do not welcome further engagement. For at least the next year there will be no more approaches from the Delves to that nation.

Alternatively, one or more of the three nations might choose to encourage their people to accept the hospitality of the Delves, and enthusiastically participate with their own contributions.

{{Mandate|mandate=The Sarcophan folk of the Alivetti estates bring prosperity to the Empire, and help smooth relations between Empire and Delves. We join them in proudly celebrating both our differences and similarities. and send (named priest) with 25 liao and 10 Thrones to both encourage the businessfolk of our nation to take up this offer, and to ensure that we are good guests and bring gifts of our own to share with our hosts.|assembly=Highborn, Freeborn, or League National Assembly}}

If this mandate is passed, it will increase the opportunities available in the Alivetti Estates for everyone in that nation. They will gain four consumables rather than two, on top of the free diversification option following the Winter Solstice. It will also send a message to the Delves that the folk of that nation welcome trade with the Delves, and appreciate the services offered in the enclave.

It is something of an open secret that ''Burgemeester Vandersaar'' is considering making a gift to the city at the height of the festivities. The Burgemeester has commissioned the [[schema]] for a [[:Category:Foci|magical mask]] used by Sarcophan Delves magicians. If the three Imperial nations all participate in the festivities it will reassure them that this is the right idea. If that happens, they will deliver this gift to the [[Mirrored Maschieri]] - currently '''Magdelena Alanga Di Sarvos''' - as the foremost proponent of fashion and design right across the Empire, in time for the Spring Equinox. That is provided that none of the three National assemblies enact a mandate discouraging people from attending; the gift is predicated on the celebrations being a resounding success and one or more of the three invited nations being disinterested will sour the Burgemeester on their expensive gift.

Obviously Imperial citizens have their own opinions on the matter. Among those interested in the outcome, magistrate ''Georgie Arcobalena di Sarvos'' has urged restraint and expressed concerns about the challenges of protecting the internal Imperial/Sarcophan border. On the other hand, ''Bishop Ziphania Fantoccio von Caricomare'' has spoken several times about the importance of trusting people to understand their own path of [[Pride]] and make decisions about their own behaviour without interference from the Chamber of Commerce or the League Assembly.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Burning oil lamp.jpg|caption=There are arguments that concerns about the Alivetti enclave are really a matter of Vigilance, rather than Prosperity.|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Questions of Legality===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Walls of Liberty'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Sarvos#Caricomare|Caricomare, Sarvos]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 40 wains of [[white granite]], 120 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the title of "Alivetti Gatekeeper"
* Resolves ongoing issues of Imperial citizens bringing illegal goods out of the Sarcophan Delves enclave
* Annoys the Sarcophan Enclave
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Alivetti Gatekeeper'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' League</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives an income of 19 crowns each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversee the Walls of Virtue and work with the Sarcophan Delves and the Ambassador to maintain relations with the Alivetti estates</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The Senate could increase funding to the magistrates to help them secure the internal border with the Sarcophan enclave'''
* '''A proposal for an actual wall to prevent smuggling has been put forward'''
* '''The wall creates an opportunity to place tariffs on Imperial citizens entering and leaving the estate to support an ''Alivetti Gatekeeper'' '''
* '''Either funding or walls would end the legal issues relating to illegality around the Enclave but annoy Burgemeester Vandersaar'''
Concerns about the clash between Imperial law, and the barely-extant laws of the Sarcophan Delves have been ongoing for some time and this festivity serves to bring them to a head. In the run up to the Winter Solstice, the magistrate notionally overseeing the area around the Alivetti Estates - the aforementioned ''Georgie Arcobalena di Sarvos'' - has finally admitted that her current resources are insufficient to the task. She has asked the chief magistrates ''Stanislav Karkovich'' and ''Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra'' for assistance. They in turn look to the [[Senate]].

The Senate could pass a [[Senate motion]] allocating increased budget to the Sarvosan magistrates explicitly to deal with the border problems experienced in Caricomare due to the tension between the laws of the two nations. This would cost an additional 10 Thrones each season but would allow Magistrate Acrobalena to stamp out smuggling - whether intentional or accidental - of proscribed substances and materials out of the Alivetti estates enclave. It would take a little time to arrange - and thus would not directly impact the upcoming celebrations that begin so soon after the Solstice - but it would effectively put a stop to the problem presented by the Sarcophan enclave for as long as the money was allocated or until the situation significantly changed.

News of the request clearly frustrates ''Bishop Ziphania Fantoccio von Caricomare'', who sees the opportunity for Imperial citizens to mingle freely with foreign visitors to the Empire's shores as an unmitigated good. In a rousing sermon delivered from his church in Sarvos, he mockingly suggests that surely it would be easier for Magistrate Arcobalena to simply build a massive wall around the enclave to remove the liberty and dignity of the people of Sarvos. Indeed, he quips, one would not even need to put a gate in it.

This being Sarvos, within a week of the sermon a plan is presented to Magistrate Arcobalena for just such a project. In the event the Senate are interested, an [[edifice]] could be constructed around the Alivetti estate that would greatly restrict easy access to the enclave. The "Walls of Liberty" would require a "mere" 40 wains of white granite, 120 crowns, and three months to complete. They would greatly restrict free passage into the enclave, making it much easier to ensure that citizens are aware of the consequences of smuggling. They would be built entirely on the Imperial side of the "border" meaning no legal impediment to their creation.

In theory, whoever commissions the wall could specify that it has no gates in it, but not even Magistrate Arcobalena thinks that is a good idea. Instead they could specify that the gates will collect tolls on Imperial citizens entering the enclave. Once the costs of operating the gates are taken into account, this would provide an income of 19 crowns each season. The proposal posits the creation of an "Alivetti Gatekeeper" - a League [[Imperial title|title]] established by [[Tally of the Votes]] who would be charged with overseeing the walls and gates, but also working with the Delves and the [[Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves|Imperial ambassador]] to maintain relations with the Alivetti estates.

This move would obviously anger ''Burgomeester Vandersaar'' but it would effectively resolve the ongoing issues with citizens bringing illegal goods out of the Sarcophan enclave. Placing a toll on the gates, and creating the consequent Imperial title, would absolutely infuriate Burgomeester Vandersaar - it is one thing to restrict trade but to do so in a way that requires a price of admission to visit the estates, as if they were an exotic menagerie is something the burgomeester would find particularly outrageous. But as long as they want to operate from the Alivetti estates, their ability to actually do anything about an Imperial wall is somewhat limited.

===The Silent Manse===
* '''The Silent Manse has been proscribed by the League assembly'''
After the Autumn Equinox, '''Cosimo Argyra''' [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_127|enacted a mandate]] urging "''all Imperial citizens planning to visit the (Alivetti) estates to express only polite and civil disinterest in their unvirtuous religion''." Cautions against getting drawn into an unwholesome religion have been heard and taken to heart and the teachings of the ''Community of Silence'' will remain restricted to the enclave. This hasn't particularly impacted the ''Community'' itself - their focus is on serving the needs of the Sarcophan rather than proselytising. It does mean that there will be no further opportunity to establish cordial relations between the Way and the Community of Silence, nor to learn about their beliefs, nor any sharing of their knowledge of ghosts and the like. But that may be a small price to pay to prevent a blasphemous and heretical faith seeking to expand into the Empire.

It is still possible to send [[Call Winged Messenger|winged messengers]] to ''Poortwachter Lenart Farber'', the leader of the Community of Silence at the Silent Manse, but anyone doing so should anticipate that there might be no response. The Community has been told loudly and clearly to focus on their own people, after all.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}

==Apothecary Guild==
* '''The Sarcophan Kruidenkenner Guild are enthusiastic about closer ties with the Apothecaries' Guild
* '''The current Apothecaries' Guild Leader is Esmé i Estrico i Erigo'''
The Sarcophan Delves are masters of the arts of the herbalist, [[Surgical skills#Physick|physick]], and especially the [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecary]]. Many of their most prestigious and experienced herblorists belong to the wealthy and influential ''Kruidenkenner'' which is apparently a powerful guild that exists outside the [[Founders_of_the_Delves|thirteen houses]] in a manner analogous to an [[Imperial sodality]]. The guild is at the forefront of the trade in herbs and medicinal products and have [[Can%27t_give_everything_away#The_Apothecaries_Guild|enthusiastically sought out]] closer ties with their Imperial peers in the [[Apothecaries Guild]]. There has been some communication between '''Esmé i Estrico i Erigo''' - the [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#Guild_Leader|Guild Leader]] of the apothecaries - and luminaries of the Kruidenkenner regarding [[All_the_night-tide#Apothecary_Allies|opportunities]] to work together.

One outcome has been a proposition to [[The_circle_game#Sarcophan_and_the_Kruidenkenner|alter certain trade ministries]] to deal in metals rather than Imperial coin. It has been suggested that the returns on these trades might not be as profitable as the current arrangements. The Kruidenkenner don't deny that accusation but just point out that it is the Empire seeking to change the arrangements and that barter is inherently more expensive. More details of this arrangement can be found in the '''[[The_circle_game#Sarcophan_and_the_Kruidenkenner|The circle game]]''' wind of fortune.

The Kruidenkenner remain enthused about the [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] and [[Master of the Root and Stem]] being [[All_the_night-tide#Magazijn|appointed by the Apothecaries' Guild]]. While they could use heavy-handed tactics to try and force this, they acknowledge that diplomacy may provide a better solution. Indeed, adjusting their ministerial trade to use barter rather than cold hard cash may well be an attempt endear themselves to the Imperial Senate. Obviously the matter of the Master of the Root and Stem is a little moot at the moment given the [[Jotun]] have [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#The_Walls_of_Meade|captured Meade]], but the Delves consider this only a minor aberration. They are confident the Marches will reclaim their city before too long and will wait patiently until they do so, so that trade can resume. And they remain invested in seeing the Master appointed through the Apothecaries.

They are however aware that there is a problem around the appointment of the Kruidenkenner Trademaster in that, as it stands, the title is [[Auction of the Seats|auctioned]] to raise money for the [[Imperial treasury]]. Their proposal is that if the Senate does amend the appointment of the Kruidenkenner and the Master of Root and Stem to the Apothecaries' Guild, they would also be prepared to shift the [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks#Sarcophan_Traders|Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks]] to deal in ambergelt, the [[High_Herbalist_of_Sybella#The_Kruidenkennerx|High Herbalist of Sybella]] to deal in dragonbone, and the [[Master_of_the_Clearing_House#The_Kruidenkenner|Master of the Clearing House]] to deal in beggar's lye. With the blessing of Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike, Ambassador Dino could present all these changes as part of a treaty with the Delves rather than as a series of separate senate motions.
===Prescriptions===
* '''The matter of who has the power to disseminate potion herbals has been raised by the Kruidenkenner'''
* '''The manifesto of the Guild approved by the Senate suggests they should have this power but this has not yet been legally confirmed'''
* '''The Constitutional Court have asked the Speaker to raise an administrative motion to settle the matter'''

The Kruidenkenner have already [[All_the_night-tide#Herbal_Lore|raised the matter of trading herbal lore]] with the Apothecaries. Unfortunately, their proposal still requires some kind of legal response. While the Guild has the acknowledged legal power to [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#Imperial_Lore|spread knowledge of potions]] across the Empire, their ability to do so beyond the Empire is in question. The Conclave has the power of [[dissemination]] to allow them to create copies of rituals in Imperial lore to share with non-Imperial citizens. Who now holds the legal power to do so?

In the past dissemination of a herbal would have required a successful Senate motion. The creation of the Apothecaries guild puts that in doubt; the Senate approved the manifesto stating the sodality exists to "Coordinate and support Imperial efforts in the research, development, '''education, and dissemination''' of ingredients, potions, and antidotes". The wording implies they should have the power to disseminate knowledge of potion recipes to other nations and groups - but thus far the Senate has not confirmed that was their intention.

As in any such matters where there is uncertainty, an [[administrative motion]] will be added to the Senate schedule to clarify the situation. The motion is deliberately written in such a way as to force a clarification - either the Senate amends the Guild's manifesto to bring it into line with the previous status quo - or they leave it as is and the power passes to the Guild. This approach ''ensures'' that the wording of the law is consistent with implementation after the motion is decided by the Senate.

<quote by="Administrative Constitutional Senate Motion">To amend the manifesto of the Apothecaries Guild to read "Coordinate and support Imperial efforts in the research, development, education, and dissemination of ingredients, potions, and antidotes to Imperial citizens.</quote>

This is a clear change to the manifesto of a sodality - so it would require a constitutional vote. If it passes with the necessary majority and is ratified by the Throne, then the manifesto of the Apothecaries Guild will be amended to make clear that their remit extends only to Imperial citizens. That will clarify the current situation, the Guild will ''not'' have the legal power to disseminate a herbal - that power will remain with the Senate and will require a Senate motion and ten thrones from the Imperial treasury.

If the motion fails or is rejected by the Senate, then the Guild's manifesto will not be amended. That will mean that the Senate no longer has the power to disseminate a herbal - instead that power will lie with the Apothecaries Guild. It will require a vote of members of the sodality and ten thrones, provided by the [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#Guild_Leader|apothecary guild leader]].

Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike politely asks Ambassador Dino to use their influence to get this motion rejected. At the moment the Kruidenkenner and their peers are enthusiastic about cultivating closer ties with the Apothecary Guild - they are keen to strike while the iron is hot.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Starcathedral.jpg|align=right|width=500|caption=The cathedral of the Navigators remains a beautiful and inspiring building, but its ability to attract converts in the Delves has become increasingly limited.}}</div>

==The Monument Trade==
* '''Highborn businesses and mines continue to prosper from a fashion for Highborn sculpture and stone
* '''The fortunes of the Cathedral of the Navigators continue to decline
During the Spring Equinox an art dealer named ''Senna van Ijzer'' [[Waiting_for_the_worms#Tombs_and_Tribulations|spoke with]] the [[Highguard|Highborn]] Council of [[Benefactors]]. They represented ''De Verzamelaars van Beeltenissen '' - "the Collectors" - a fringe Sarcophan sect who hold beliefs considered peculiar even by the standards of the Delves. In particular they preach that valuable objects depicting a deceased person's face hold particular value for buying a place in the Houses of Silence.

The year-long agreement between Senna and the benefactors to acquire Highborn pieces has seen [[business|businesses]] and [[mine|mines]] prosper across the nation with each such resource receiving an extra 18 rings production per season. Support for the trade from the Highborn assembly and especially the [[Bishop of the Navigators]] has been gratefully accepted by the Collectors and has done much to increase the demand for Highborn artwork. Indeed a fashion for Highborn iconography and grave monuments has taken hold in the Delves. Anyone who is anyone wants a Highborn funerary marker for their dear departed relatives' tomb. Senna is apparently busy securing more investment for the contract, and plans to return to Anvil during the Spring equinox to discuss continuing the lucrative trade for another year.

The arrangement also continues to draw criticism among followers of the Way in the Delves however. ''Mischa van de Libel'', a Sarcophan priest of the Way and [[dedication|dedicant]] of [[Prosperity]], has urged her fellow ''priester'' to cut ties with the Cathedral entirely and look to their own communities in the face of this blatant commodification of their faith. They are not the only ones; the [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] ''präster'' at the rival temple of the Way in the ''Buitenlandsewijk'' continue to preach openly that the Highborn treat virtue as a commodity to be bought and sold, devaluing their shared faith. Unfair as these words may appear, there has been an undeniable loss of prestige for the Cathedral and the Bishop.

The businesses and mines of Highguard prosper, but it has come at the cost of the prestige of the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Cathedral_of_the_Navigators|Cathedral of the Navigators]]. The [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Merchant_Ministry|merchant ministry]] and the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Low Ministry|Low Ministry]] have permanently lost another level of production. By the start of the Spring Equinox, the Cathedral will have completely lost access to the Low Ministry, and the Merchant Ministry will be reduced to a single level. This represents a significant loss of influence for the cathedral, the Bishop, and the Imperial version of the Way in the Sarcophan Delves.
{{Sarcophan Links}}

Ethereal Courier

2026-04-05T19:41:53Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Effects */ Closing the box around written communication

{{stub}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBUrizen.jpg|caption=This ritual is part of [[Urizen magical traditions#Urizen Lore|Urizen lore]] rather than [[Imperial lore]].|align=right|width=200}}
==Rules==
{{Season|Autumn|10}}
{{Urizen Lore}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} It targets a closed box or package including a specially prepared letter which must be present throughout.
===Effects===
This ritual requires both a specially prepared, single page letter and a closed box or package of non-living material with dimensions up to 8” by 8” by 8”. Attempting to send additional written material such as messages, will cause the ritual to fail (interestingly this restriction does not apply to ritual texts, schema, or herbals which the ritual seems to class as a "commodity" rather than "written communication"). If the package contains anything living the ritual fails - the mana is not expended and the box simply stays in place.

At the completion of the ritual the letter and package vanish (or in the case of a physical box, the contents of the box vanish but the container itself is left behind) and are conveyed to a single named character at a known location in the mortal realm. It can take anywhere from several hours, to several days, for the package to be delivered. There seems to be no relationship between the physical distance to the target and the time the package takes to arrive.

The specially prepared letter is a key element of the ritual. Preparing the letter includes clearly identifying the intended recipient by name (and title if appropriate), and by their location. If this information is incorrect or incomplete, the package will fail to be delivered. Should the package fail to arrive for any reason then it will not be returned; instead the person who prepared the missive receives a formal in-character note indicating the courier has failed to deliver the parcel in their pack at the start of the next event.

The ritual cannot send anything to an [[eternal]] or herald, to a creature in a magical realm, to a ghost, or to the inhabitant of a [[regio]] [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|chamber]]. Any attempt to send an ethereal courier to such a target will fail - even if they are in the mortal realm.

==Description==
Ethereal Courier was codified over Winter 378YE at the [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29|Halls of Knowledge]] in [[Zenith]], under the auspices of then-[[Provost of the Halls of Knowledge|Provost]] Octavius of Auric Horizon.

The ritual extrapolates from the more commonly known [[Call Winged Messenger]], but as well as delivering a letter or missive, it can be used to send a package or parcel as well. Anything that is not alive and that will fit into an eight-inch by eight-inch by eight-inch container can be delivered anywhere in the mortal world in a matter of months. The ritual has little difficulty transporting coins, [[Materials|magical materials]], [[Bourse|Bourse notes]] for [[mithril]], [[white granite]], and [[weirwood]], [[magic items]] and [[potion|potions]] (presuming they will fit in the package), and even perishables such as food and drink (although time still passes at the normal rate for the contents of a package so food may well spoil by the time it arrives). It becomes quite unreliable when sending written material however - experiments indicated that written objects such as pamphlets and books (and especially ritual texts, schema, and herbals) usually survived the journey intact but attempts to add additional pages of communication resulted in the writing being ruined when it arrived at its destination. The exact limits of the ritual are a little unclear - it appears that ''intent'' has some impact on the outcome - but the ritual texts urge magicians to err on the side of caution when sending additional written material with an ethereal courier.

As with Call Winged Messenger, Ethereal Courier creates or summons an invisible, incorporeal messenger that carries the target package almost anywhere in the mortal realm. Ritualists perfecting this ritual reported sudden winds, whipping breezes, the sound of slow-beating metallic wings, and an occasional leonine roar or avian cry. Recipients reported similar sensations on occasions where they have been aware of the package arriving - although at least a third of the time the package arrived while they were sleeping. Attempts to catch or spot the "spirit" have proved no more successful with this ritual than Call Winged Messenger.

The Ethereal Courier always delivers the package ''somewhere'' - making it particularly important to ensure that the specially prepared missive is properly addressed. Some experimentation suggests that valuable contents may end up in a chamber of the Autumn realm known as "the Lost and Found". Associated in some way with both the [[Basileus_Flint|City of Locks]] and the eternal [[Mazen]] this peculiar location is a kind of storeroom for missing items. Anecdotally items that end up in the Lost and Found have a serendipitous tendency to reappear in the mortal world in an ironic or inconvenient fashion.

[[Wintermark_magical_traditions#Icewalkers|Icewalker]] Gunnar - one of those scholars of the Halls of Knowledge who sadly [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge|disappeared]] when the buildings moved from Zenith to [[Morrow]] in 381YE - theorised that a container marked with suitable runes would travel more securely (he suggested [[Diras]] and [[Verys]], the same runes that empower a [[Technology#Runeboxes_and_Runebound_Chains|runebox]]). He also suggested that it would be possible for some of the [[eternal|eternals]] of the Autumn realm to provide containers that worked more effectively with this ritual – in the same manner that [[Ephisis]] might provide a larger-than-normal box for use with the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. Wild speculation about how big such a box might be - including the potential implications of a box the size of a wardrobe - have yet to be tested.

==Common Elements==
A box or package is the focus of this ritual, and it must fit within well defined dimensions and be a single entity (it will not send several small packages unless they are tightly bound together in some fashion). The specially prepared letter should be affixed to the package and must be addressed as clearly as possible; the address is usually recited loudly and clearly during the ritual.

The [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] constellation of [[the Door]] seems to be especially useful in the performance of this ritual, and one recurrent theme is the image of creating a door and tossing the package through it at the completion of the ritual. Some magicians report the package disappearing in mid-air as soon as it passed through the symbolic portal, as if snatched up by a waiting courier. [[The_Spider_and_The_Web#The_Web|The Web]] also seems to have a strong resonance for this ritual - especially where either the person who prepared the letter or the ritualists have a connection of some kind to the recipient. Likewise, packages intended for recipients who are relatives of one or more of the participants can be sped on their way by the evocation of [[the Three Sisters]] - the crotchety [[mage]] Lucien of the Halls of Knowledge theorised that doing so with a package or letter that would cause sorrow or regret to the recipient would be especially effective but there has been little opportunity to prove this theory one way or another.

Other elements that might prove effective with Ethereal Courier include the [[rune|runes]] [[Queros]] or [[Sular]]; evocation of fast or winged [[aspect_magic#Beast Magic|symbolic animals]] such as ravens or hawks, [[aspect_magic#Heraldic_Magic|heraldic beasts]] such as the [[Legendary_beasts#Gryphon|gryphon]] or [[Horse#Pegasus|pegasus]], and the [[eternal|eternals]] [[Ephisis]] and [[Lashonar]].
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WingedMessenger.png|caption=When this symbol appears as part of the Winds of Fortune it means that the named character is specifically intended to be contactable via this ritual and includes the details needed to send such a message to them.|align=right|width=200}}</div>

==OOC Elements==
===Preparing the letter===
The specially prepared letter required for Ethereal Courier is created in the same way as the letter used with [[Call Winged Messenger]]. The rules for creating such a missive can be found [[Call_Winged_Messenger#Preparing_the_letter|here]]. The "[[Call_Winged_Messenger#Known_Correspondents|known correspondents]]" listed in the Call Winged Messenger description are also suitable targets for an Ethereal Courier.

===Packages for PCs===
This ritual is much more successful for sending a package to a non-player character than to a player-character. While it could be used to deliver materials to someone on the field at [[Anvil]], it may not arrive until the next event depending on our ability to actually deliver the package. In almost all cases, when sending a package to a player-character the ritualists would be better served paying someone to deliver it by hand on their behalf.
===Notes===
In every case, the text that is transported will be the text that was written on the computer by the correspondent. This is fixed at the point where the letter is printed - as are the recipient and their address. When the ritual is cast, the referee connects the unique ID number of the letter to that of the ritual, and this is what the plot writer sees when they check the details of the letter. When used with an Ethereal Courier, it is helpful for the letter to explain why the package is being sent to the target.

You must have the targeting information for a letter correct before printing it. The iridescent gloaming is consumed at this point, and if there are mistakes with the letter it is a costly proposition to correct them. While it is possible to deduce an address - for example a Wind of Fortune may mention a certain character as being in a certain location - sending a winged messenger without confirming this address in-character is a risky proposition that will commonly fail. If that happens you iridescent gloaming will be lost, but you will get the letter back in your pack at the start of the next event you attend.

The Ethereal Courier is not intended to be a way to get round the character-limit set by [[Call Winged Messenger]]. Attempts to include additional communication in the package will fail - while it is feasible to send a book or pamphlet to someone, a quirk of the magic means that attempts to send additional pages of letters result in those pages arriving blank or unreadable.

Likewise, this ritual cannot be used to assassinate NPCs. Attempts to send cursed or dangerous packages will never harm the target regardless of circumstances; sending a bottle of [[Potion#Poisons|poisoned]] wine will simply result in a furious NPC rather than a dead one.

Phys-reps included in an Ethereal Courier will be put in lost property (as if they had been [[Playing_the_game#Stealing_Items_in_Anvil|stolen in-character]]) rather than returned directly.
[[Category:Autumn Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

When peace was far away

2026-04-05T19:38:21Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Free Port */ Making mostly one less

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>The port of Radosmo is the richest, most prosperous settlement in all of Zemelslo. It rises above three bays, each one separated by hilly splits of land. They are named for the twilight at morning, the brightness of high noon, and the gloaming that comes with night. At the landward side of each is a dock, and which goods land and ship from each dock is decreed by the laws of the Concillium. Radosmo is where the Concillium meets each month, to discuss matters of governance and magic. They are well advised by the Jarmish Consul, who by all accounts does not speak often but when they do their words are listened to. It is common for heralds of the realms to attend these meetings, to observe, and to present minor boons to the magicians in return for small concessions.
Zemelslo is not a wealthy nation; it primarily exports salt fish, salt lamb and mutton, and a strong sour beverage called Bidderskit that is at best an acquired taste. The largest structure is the Concillium Hall, but the second largest is the palace of the Jarmish Consul which stands on one of the hills overlooking Radosmo. It is very beautiful, and the first thing a sailor sees on their approach to the port. The people of Zemelslo are cousins to the folk of the Principalities, in much the same way the people of Sarvos or the Brass Coast are cousins to the Highborn. Their people diverged long ago, but are close enough that cordial relations and strong bonds of wealth and politics unite them.

There are no slaves in Zemelslo. Instead, there is a caste of folk whose name translates roughly as "''ungrateful''" in the particular dialect of the Zemelslona. People who have committed crimes against their fellows, or against the state. They are kept in the most squalid possible conditions, forced to toil at the most back-breaking, filthy jobs until their sentence is completed. One might imagine that in a state as law-abiding and civil as Zemelslo there would not be many ungrateful; yet there always seem to be more than enough to ensure the fields are tilled, the bays are dredged, and the streets are cleaned.

There are no temples or shrines here; the Concillium of Zemelslo does not proscribe religion so much as discount it. Faith, teach the leaders of this tiny island nation, is a distraction. A warm blanket fit only for children. Nothing exists beyond the world, and the six realms of magic. Miracles and the so-called ceremonies of priests are nothing more than magic, practiced by amateurs who do not truly understand what they are doing. The people of Zemelslo patronise evangelists and missionaries, listening with every sign of amused tolerance, even applauding skilled oratory or rhetoric, and then... they just move on.

(Yet be careful; these people pride themselves on their liberty to a degree that an outsider might misjudge as a kind of faith. Their civility is as much as learned response to living in a society where anarchy bubbles beneath the surface as it is their vaunted rationality. The ''ungrateful'' toil, openly degraded, as much as a reminder to the common folk about what will happen if they forget their social contract with the Concillium and try to overthrow them. Reading between the lines of the history books, this has happened at least twice and each time there is a period of chaos and a new Concillium rises to replace the old.)

Most of the visitors to the docks of Radosmo are foreigners; traders from the western Principalities exchange crystal mana for victuals; for metals cut from the hearts of the hills; and for softer treasures harvested from the inland trees. They are equally happy to trade with other visitors, these visiting merchants; and for those who do not wish to dirty themselves dealing with the emissaries of Jarm there is ample opportunity to purchase their fine goods from the markets of Radosmo, engaging in trade at one remove.

That, perhaps, is the zeitgeist of Radosmo, of Zemelslo. They exist at one remove. Comfortable with the protection of their "cousins" to the east, comfortable to live quiet lives, comfortable to be insulated from the chaos of the world. Happy that war and hard choices both are far away.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Hausziege 04.jpg|align=left|caption=Among other things, the nation of Zelemslo is known for its clever goats; by long standing rule of the Concillium they may be herded and milked but not eaten.|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''The Empire remains at peace with the Principalities of Jarm, but trade with that nation is embargoed
* '''The Senate has approved trade with the tiny independent nation of Zemolslo that lies within the Jarmish sphere of influence
* '''Jarm is at war with Imperial allies in the Commonwealth
* '''Jarm has recently encountered the threat of Cold Sun
* '''The Imperial ambassador to the Principalities is Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo of the Brass Coast
Each season the [[Civil Service]] prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

One of the six great powers, the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are not exactly friendly to the Empire. The ''magocracy'', ruled by the House of Princes resents what it claims are repeated attempts by Imperial citizens to interfere with its interests. Via the [[Liberty Pact]], the Empire is allied with Jarm's enemies, the [[Commonwealth]], and open war now rages between the two great nations. They may not be at war with the Empire, but they know that Imperial citizens and the [[Conclave|Imperial Conclave]] in particular have provided significant assistance to their rivals. Communications tend to be brusque, bordering on the curt.

The Jarmish ambassador to the Empire is ''Lord-Magister Anton Trescher of the Hidden Hook'', who attends at the House of Princes. A canny and influential politician who has served the House of Princes for over forty years, he represents the Jarmish to the Empire and vice-versa. A potent master of Autumn magic, he is known for his sarcasm and dry wit, and for his commitment to the sovereignty of the Principalities he serves.
==War in the East==
* '''The war between the Commonwealth and the Principalities of Jarm continues
* '''Cold Sun has erupted into the borderlands between the two nations
The ''[[According_to_principle#The_Lantir_War|Lantir War]]'' continues despite the [[Cold war|eruption]] of [[Cold Sun]]. Diplomats from both sides have made attempts to arrange a summit to discuss the matter, but so far without success. There is nothing approaching a coordinated response between the two rivals to the ''scions'' pouring into Lantir. Indeed, as discussed in the '''[[Cold war]]''' wind of fortune, both sides suspect the other of having been responsible, and believe that the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] are targeting ''their'' forces particularly.

The conflict between the Principalities and the Commonwealth is at its root a clash of ideology. Jarm fights for the right to self-determination, while the Commonwealth strives to spread its idea of the Common Good to all. Jarm remains unable to match the Commonwealth on sheer logistical and military might; the Commonwealth cannot equal the magical prowess of the Principalities. Neither side will submit to the other and so the war continues. The addition of this third force means it is impossible to tell who is "winning".
{{Nation|nation=Jarm|status=Foreigner|port=[[Principalities_of_Jarm_ports#Kavor_(Northern_Principalities_of_Jarm)|Kavor]], [[Principalities_of_Jarm_ports#Vezak_(Southern_Principalities_of_Jarm)|Vezak]], and [[Principalities_of_Jarm_ports#Rigia_(Eastern_Principalities_of_Jarm)|Rigia]] (all closed)|ambassador=Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo of [[the Brass Coast]]}}
==The Third Letter==
* '''Lord-Magister Anton has responded candidly to the Ambassador's communications
* '''He believes that if things continue on their current course it could lead to a thawing in Imperial-Jarm relations
Normally, the language of diplomacy is full of caveats and circumlocution, comments Lord-Magister Anton. The Imperial Ambassadors interestingly candid approach, however, is in all honesty quite refreshing. It is a relief sometimes, he writes, to be able to speak directly. As such, he acknowledges that the Ambassador may be feeling a little rebuffed. Yet he feels that he was very clear about why the Magician-Princes were not particularly impressed by the return of the [[My_passions_from_a_common_spring#Spice|Vezakri spice grinder]]. When one is honestly sending something without expectation of reward, one cannot really complain if they don't then get a reward.

More constructively, the matter of the spice grinder is ultimately unimportant by itself but it is not without symbolic weight. Coupled with the efforts of other Imperial citizens, there ''is'' more of a taste in the House of Princes for dealing with the Empire. Embargo costs both countries, and is good for neither. Right now the House of Princes is busy with other matters - war with the Commonwealth and the [[Cold war|destruction of Lantir]] being foremost in their minds. While it might not seem like it, the situation is improving. And in Anton's opinion part of that is down to '''Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo''' and their immediate predecessor '''Nikita Teanga Volkov'''. There have obviously been several fine ambassadors from the Empire, but they are often judged against the example of the former ambassador '''Oswi Twice-Burned''' - someone who understood the realities of doing business on the international stage and put pragmatism ahead of ideology.

As long as the Empire respects Jarm's independence as a sovereign nation; as long as they stay out of the war with the Commonwealth; and especially if they are able to offer practical support against these damned ''scions'' pouring out of Lantir, relations between the Principalities and Imperial citizens can only improve. Indeed, the assurances ''Ambassador Damiàn'' has issued regarding their intention to provide aid to the Jarmish in containing the forces of ''Oblivion'' has caused several otherwise disinterested princes to sit up and take notice, especially those potentially threatened by the ''scions''. If they are able to deliver on those promises - if the [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|Conclave]] offers real, measurable support to Jarm - then it will not only prove the Ambassador's calibre but see more Magician-Princes prepared to soften their attitudes to the Empire. If they fail of course... well that will just reaffirm the perception of recent Imperial ambassadors being little more than chair-warmers.

The civil service are a little taken aback by the tone of Lord Anton's correspondence, but cautiously suggest that by speaking candidly in response to the Ambassador, Trescher is in his own way showing his respect. Maybe?

==Free Port==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box>'''<big>Bidderskit</big>'''<p>
Goat milk is a common staple of the Zemelslo diet. One of their main exports is Bidderskit, an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting goat milk and adding certain local ingredients. There are a range of strong flavours, but it is something of an acquired taste. Any Imperial fleet captain who has visited the nation is free to phys-rep Bidderskit with almost any kind of milk or milk-like liquid especially flavoured milkshake.</box></div>
* '''The Senate approved access to a port in the independent nation of Zemelslo
* '''Imperial captains now trade at Radosmo, primarily with Jarmish merchants
* '''Lord-Magister Anton has praised the Imperial Ambassador for their work in negotiating trade with Zemelslo'''
* '''Communication with Zemelslo technically lies under the remit of the Imperial Consul, Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason
During the Autumn Equinox, the [[My_passions_from_a_common_spring#Free_Ports_And_Free_People|tiny nation of Zemelslo]] opened their port at Radosmo to Imperial traders at the urging of ''Prince Mila'' of the Violetinu Mishkas. Zemelslo lies in the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Steel|Sea of Steel]] and is firmly within the Jarmish sphere of influence. Technically self-governed by a ''concilium'' of magicians, in practice it is a protectorate of Jarm and looks to the House of Princes in all things. The Jarmish Consul officially is an ambassador from the great nation to the east; in practice it operates a lot more like a governor albeit one that mostly observes and offers polite advice.

Its primary exports are salted fish and a beverage called Bidderskit (a strong sour alcoholic drink made from fermented goats milk). There is not much demand for Bidderskit and salted fish in the Empire, but Jarmish merchants visit Radosmo all the time. Imperial merchants are welcome to trade with other visitors... which means access to the same kinds of products that were available from Jarmish ports. This is a polite fiction that allows Jarm and the Empire to trade without either side having to open their ports to the other. Obviously the argument is that trade with Zemelslo, a sovereign nation, is not prohibited by the terms of the Liberty Pact. While the Commonwealth might [[The price is great#Zemelslo|take a different view]], the Senate [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Confirm_Trade_with_Zemelslo|have been clear]] that they do not see any legal obstacle to Imperial traders dealing with Zemelslo and confirmed that it is not part of Jarm.

It is too early to make sweeping generalisations - whatever Anton's esteemed colleague the Magician-Prince of the Violetinu Mishkas might believe - but the preliminary successes seen in Radosmo are encouraging. Perhaps it ''is'' possible for the Empire to visit an island without [[Mosaic|burning everything to the ground]] in the name of religion? While Zemelslo isn’t Kavor or Zemech, it is a good start. Lord-Magister Trescher is not alone if that he would be perfectly happy to see relations between the nations thaw out enough to allow trade to prosper again. The Empire is after all an excellent market; and everyone would be happier if they did not have to listen to the Golden Peacock faction banging on about the "Casinean Hegemon Threat" every five minutes.
{{WingedMessenger|address=Winged Messengers can be dispatched by anyone interested in further discussing trade via Zemelslo to ''Magician Prince Mila, The Tepesch Palace, Principality of the Violetinu Mishkas, Principalities of Jarm''. The Concilium has asked that the youthful Magician-Prince serve as their liason to the Empire.}}

==Weirwood for Free People==
* '''Zemelslo has requested an opportunity to purchase a large amount of weirwood from the Empire
* '''The Senate has clarified that the Concillium is a sovereign nation distinct from Jarm
* '''They thus fall under the remit of the Imperial Consul'''
* '''The current Imperial Consul is Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason'''
The inference taken from the Senate's decision is that it is the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''', who is responsible for any further dealing with Zemelslo, rather than the Ambassador to Jarm. The Concilium of Zemelslo have not invited any kind of diplomatic contact; any formal Imperial correspondence should go via their close ally, the Magician-Prince of the Violetinu Mishkas. It is not that they are incapable of making their own decisions, simply that Prince Mila has more experience dealing with Imperial citizens and is unlikely to accidentally offend against their sensibilities or religion. Mila has graciously agreed to serve as a go-between.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=left|width=500}}</div>
With his assistance the Concilium of Zemelslo have made an overture to the Imperial Consul offices indicating that they are in the market to purchase a large amount of [[weirwood]]. They are looking to secure 200 wains toward the [[Navy#Costs|construction]] if a [[navy]] to help protect their island against Commonwealth aggression. They are able to offer 20 crowns a wain for any amount that the Imperial Consul can arrange. If the Consul wishes to take advantage of this offer, the Civil service can help facilitate it. ('''OOC Note:''' The Consul should ensure the weirwood is in their inventory at the end of the event and e-mail {{plot}} to let us know how much they are providing to Zemelslo. We'll then remove the wains and replace them with the money at the agreed price.)

Regardless of what the Imperial Consul may choose, any private citizen could take advantage of this trade. The [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore|Urizeni]] ritual ''[[Ethereal Courier]]'' could certainly be used to send weirwood Bourse notes to Magician-Prince Mila. This would require a little more effort to claim, but there is no legal impediment to ships from Zemelslo collecting wains from Imperial warehouses. The citizen trading in this way would either receive the payment mentioned, or have their Bourse notes returned if the Consul has already provided all the weirwood required.

The civil service assessment is that on the surface it seems to be a legitimate attempt by the Concilium of Zemelslo to establish their own navy. However as a nation in the pocket of Jarm, helping Zemelslo arm itself effectively provides Jarm with access to another navy. It is very likely that Magician Prince Mila is behind this trade offer, and the likely source of much of the money to pay for it.
==Equal Weight==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Fortified Embassy'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification Upgrade</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Limus, Redoubt</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 mithril, 90 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Gives the Walls of Cargo the ''Jarmish Warwizards'' quality
* Allows Jarm to defend shipping along the Couros against Commonwealth interests</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Requires concedence of the embassy</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''Jarm proposes the Empire cede the Jarmish embassy in Cargo to them'''
* '''In return they would station of garrison of warwizards in Cargo to help defend the territory if it was attacked'''
Lord-Magister Anton has received correspondence from the staff at the Jarmish embassy in [[Redoubt#Cargo|Cargo]] regarding the building of a [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth#The Diplomatenschloss|Commonwealth castle]] across the river Couros in [[Necropolis]]. Concerns have been expressed in the House of Princes about notoriously warlike Commonwealth soldiers travelling the same river as peaceful Jarmish emissaries - especially given the Empire's obvious favouring of the rival nation. As such he proposes that the [[Senate]] expand and also [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|concede]] the Jarmish embassy in Cargo. Jarm would cover some of the costs, and would establish a cadre of elite Jarmish battle-magicians at the embassy to protect the interests of their citizens both in the embassy and travelling along the river. They would also be in a position to help garrison the [[Redoubt#The_Walls_of_Cargo|Walls of Cargo]] - which Lord-Magister Anton points out they [[The_whole_world#The_Magic_of_Jarm|also helped create]]. In the event that the Commonwealth chose to commit piracy against Jarmish ships in Imperial waters, they would be in position to defend their diplomats and take appropriate retribution against any attack.

The civil service have assessed the proposal - they estimate that in the event the walls of Cargo would gain the ''Jarmish warwizards'' quality. If enemy forces threatened the region of [[Redoubt#Limus|Limus]], the Jarmish war-magicians would add an extra 1,000 strength to the garrison for purposes of defending the territory and inflicting casualties on the attackers in same way as if they were a number of [[military unit|military units]] taking a [[Military unit#Guard|guard action]]. The required concedence would give the Jarmish free reign to operate within their own embassy without any hint of Imperial oversight - and if relations between Jarm and the Empire collapsed entirely, a band of Jarmish war-wizards in Urizen could arguably do some significant damage before they were stopped. They also speculate that this is a naked political ploy - to "balance" the fact that the Commonwealth has stationed troops on Imperial soil and has direct control of their own ''diplomatenschloss''.

==Herbs for the White Palm==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}
* '''The House of the White Palm in Jarm seeks aid in dealing with the cursed injuries caused by the ''scions'' of Cold Sun
* '''They would like the Imperial Apothecaries Guild to send them a package of marrowort and bladeroot using ethereal courier
* '''In return they offer a herbal for a healing salve
* '''The Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild is Esmé i Estrico i Erigo
While magic is excellent for dealing with serious injuries in the short term - rituals such as ''[[Stout Resolve of the Unyielding|Kaljulaid's Resolution]]'' can help warriors endure these kinds of injury - they are ineffective at actually treating the injuries. The Principalities have fewer battle-trained [[surgical skills#Physicks|physicks]] than the Empire. While the profession of physick is respected, those who master the arts of the body are more inclined to operate in cities tending to wealthy clients than risk their lives fighting.

The ''House of the White Palm'' is an old establishment that trains battlefield physicks to support Jarmish armies. The incursion of [[Cold Sun]] has left them overwhelmed - and both mundane soldiers and [[Magical skills#Battlemage|battlefield wizards]] are paying the price. The White Palm ''lekár'' - the battlefield medics facing the destruction of Cold Sun - are in desperate need of [[marrowort]] and [[bladeroot]]. Large amounts, very quickly.

As such they have decided to go outside the traditional diplomatic channels and make a direct appeal to a body they apparently consider to be their peers - the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]]. They need 200 drams of both marrowort and bladeroot, and they cannot wait for the slow transport of goods by sea. As such they request that the Guild collect 200 drams of each herb and deliver them via [[Ethereal Courier]] during the Winter Solstice. In return, the White Palm will share with the Guild a [[Potion#Herbal|herbal]] detailing the recipe for ''Palma Balzam'' - a preparation that translates roughly as "Palmtree Balm".

This [[potion]] is part of the [[Master Medicinal]] body of lore and creates a salve that can be applied to an injured warrior to simultaneously restore a damaged limb and heal the wounds that caused it. From the description, it appears to harness the power of [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] and [[True Vervain]] in the same way that [[Maledict's Medicament]] captures the healing properties of [[Bladeroot]] and [[Imperial Roseweald]]. What the Guild does with the herbal is up to them - keep it for their own use or share it with the rest of the Empire the House of the White Palm cares not.

The civil service advise that this appeal has apparently caused outrage in the House of Princes; the idea that a mundane college has show Jarmish weakness in this way in untenable. On the other hand nobody is prepared to censure the White Palm given their vital role in battle (and the numerous wealthy doctors trained there who serve Magician-Prince households). While trade from Jarm is [[Tariffs#Embargo|embargoed]] that prevents Jarmish vessels bringing trade goods to Imperial ports. Further, the Apothecaries' Guild is [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#The_Manifesto|responsible for]] the "''Coordination and support Imperial efforts in the research, development, education, and dissemination of ingredients, potions, and antidotes''" and to "''Represent and support the economic, political, and magical interests of apothecaries and herbalists within the Empire.''" If they choose to take advantage of this offer - or anyone chooses to fulfil the order on their behalf - there is no immediate legal restriction. But there might be ethical and moral considerations that the [[Synod]] in particular might wish to offer guidance with.

==Matters of Measure==
* '''The Principalities are not interested in further discussion of the shield Measure
Lord Anton finally requests that the Ambassador should let '''Ser Rhydian de Rondell''' know that he is disinclined to engage in further discussion of the [[Pilgrim's Shield|shield]] ''Measure''. They offered to trade with the Empire and were rejected and that is just how diplomacy works, but they have no interest in putting Imperial citizens in touch with the current owner. There's also no interest in a challenge of eight champions - that may be how things are done in the Empire or the Commonwealth but Lord-Magister Anton doesn't feel Jarm has anything it wants to prove here. So in short, the answer is "no."

He does however wish to correct a misapprehension. The Principalities do not need details of the "underpinning" of Brotherhood of Tian. Those principles are known just as much in Jarm as they are in the Empire. A ''completed ritual text'' is very valuable, especially one that represents a year and a half at least of work during which the [[college of magic]] preparing the text can do nothing else. And, in the words of the Lord-Magister, a triumph of political will to encourage an entire college to focus on codifying a useful, practical ritual instead of some charismatic wizards' pet project involving the moon. It seems that Trescher is very bitter about something.
{{Jarm Links}}

The circle game

2026-03-20T16:44:11Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Giovanni's Legacy */ Adding a bee

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]
<ic>Graciana reached out carefully to receive the proferred book. He passed it to her slowly, handling the book as reverently as if it were a relic of the Way.

A relic of the past, I suppose, she mused to herself. "The Foundation of the Bourse" by Apomedes of Heaven's Reach. She could just make out the letters stamped into the leather bound cover, the paint that had once filled them, had long since cracked and fallen away.

"Giovanni's contribution to the Empire is often overlooked." the old man said sadly. "It's because it's so pedestrian I guess. There's no great battles. No epic wars. Apomedes claims he killed more forgers than barbarians. No moments of heroism. Well apart from Miaren I suppose and it's pretty clear that he thought that campaign was a disaster."

Graciana cupped the priceless book in both hands, unsure if it would be safe to open the cover. "I'm not sure how this will help me?" she queried.

"Apomedes first" he replied inscrutably, "then we can have a talk."
</ic>

<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Fedelmidd Sydanjaa's Heart Floer.png|caption='''Fedelmidd Sydanjaa's Heart Floer''', Senator for Sermersuaq|align=left|width=450}}</div>
==Overview==
Six months ago, during the Summer Solstice, the Imperial Senate charged the Prognosticator's Office with examining "''the ministries of the Empire to identify any alternative trades their associated titles could make that would '''not''' involve us paying coin.''" On the advice of the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court|Constitutional Court]], [[Senator]] for [[Sermersuaq]] who raised the motion - '''Fedelmidd Sydanjaa's Heart Floer''' - acknowledged that the prognosticator would need additional time to complete their review - that period has now been completed.

The Senate did not select a specific appraiser to oversee the work, so the Auditor of the Imperial Treasury Gerard La Salle assigned [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] to oversee it. His first choice - the diplomatic [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi]] - had unfortunately already been assigned to oversee an [[Any_port_in_a_storm|appraisal of Utterlund docks]]. The Freeborn has some expertise in this area, having been a successful merchant herself before joining the Civil Service. As an experienced practitioner of [[Night magic]], she is known for approaching problems in ways that are novel, albeit often expensive.

Despite her talents, it is clear that Graciana has found the task extremely challenging. The truth is that there are precious few options for alternative trades for the various existing ministries that would provide alternatives to spending money. Frustrated, the prognosticator has tried to take a broader view and look at what she has ''guessed'', is the more fundamental problem - declining revenues for the Imperial treasury, using the time available to study the problem as thoroughly as possible. She has included the findings of that investigation as part of the overall appraisal.

<div style="float:right;"><quote by="William Stanley Jevons">Money's a matter of functions four,<br>
A Medium, a Measure, a Standard, a Store.</quote></div>
==The Liquidity Problem==
* '''Imperial citizens prefer to deal in money in most cases'''
* '''Most foreigners prefer either Imperial coinage, or to deal in high-value commodities such as wains and rings of ilium'''

The fundamental problem that Graciana identifies is that the majority of potential customers would vastly prefer to deal in coin than engage in barter. There are exceptions of course, the [[Quaymaster of the Hesychian Docks]] for example, is able to trade Dragonbone for white granite. But these rare cases are the exception - most citizens strongly prefer to deal in coin rather than barter.

Coin has many advantages, as a medium of exchange it ensures that a trade isn't reliant on both parties wanting what the other party is selling. As a measure of value it is quickly and easily quantified and transferred - it is much quicker to count and transfer 20 thrones than 300 ingots of weltsilver. Coins allow people to accumulate and tally obligations and debts in ways that allow for payments to be easily deferred. Imperial coins, backed as they are by the full weight of the Empire and the tireless work of the Master of the Mint to prevent forgeries, act as a peerless store of wealth. They make it simple to keep wealth safe, so that it can be employed in the future.

In simpler terms, money is just much more desirable for buying and selling than barter is. It's flexible, and at the end of the day it is much easier to give people money to buy the things they need than it is to swap the thing you have for the thing they have. It's no use having a cart-load of weltsilver to trade for dragonbone if your opposite number actually wants orichalcum. Most established, prosperous people look at "barter" - swapping things for other things - a little askance.

While there are a few possibilities, they seem to be very specific and very limited in scope. The established ways within the Empire to buy and sell resources, all rely on money, and there is no appetite to change those. There may be some limited opportunities to create new deals with foreign nations - trading liao and dragonbone to Axos for example - but they would require careful diplomatic negotiation. In all cases foreign nations usually prefer to take payment in Imperial coin when dealing with Imperial traders - none of them are likely to accept barter unless it comes with a considerable discount that favours them.

Stymied by the inability to find any systematic or extensive solution to the appraisal, Graciana has tried to look at what she ''assumes'' is the more fundamental problem - a concern about the finance available to the Imperial treasury.

==Giovanni's Legacy==
* '''The fundamental basis of the modern Imperial economy was laid down by Emperor Giovanni'''
* '''Giovanni deliberately constrained the ability of the Empire to tax or borrow to ensure the burden of government fell on the wealthiest'''
{{CaptionedImage|file=Appendix-A---Economy-Flowchart.jpg|caption=Leaflet reproduced with the kind permission of '''Laurencio di Sarvos'''.<br>Art created by '''Persephone Sage-Fletcher'''|align=right|width=350}}</div>

The fundamental basis of the modern Imperial economy was laid down in a series of reforms instituted by [[Emperor Giovanni]]. He established the modern currency based on steel coins issued by the Imperial Mint, (which he ensured was based in Tassato). Giovanni also laid the foundations of the Bourse, and worked with the Senate and Synod to codify the body of Imperial Law. Crucially it was Giovanni that ''fixed'' the taxation that Imperial citizens must pay - by reinterpreting "a measure of silver" to be a single crown. The few texts that survive that describe this period suggest that before Giovanni, the early leaders of the Empire had anticipated that they might vary how much silver citizens might be taxed. Giovanni closed the door on that possibility.

Instead he established the Imperial Bourse as the primary method by which the nascent Empire would raise funds for the Imperial treasury. He did so at the same time that he instituted a tradition of meeting once every three months at Anvil. The few accounts of Emperor Giovanni that survive paint him as a shrewd and brilliant politician, but on a personal level he was widely regarded as cynical man whose studies of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_dismal_science the dismal science] led him to expect the worst of literally everyone. According to the [[Torchbearer]], Apomedes of Heaven's Reach, Giovanni deliberately created the Bourse to ensure that the burden of paying for the decisions of the Senate would fall on those who made them and those who put them there.

Interest in Emperor Giovanni tends to wax and wane. When economic times are good, few people pay any attention to his life's work. These periods are often marked by ''years'' of steady rises in the price of wains, accompanied by a growth in expenditure authorised by the Imperial Senate. When the wheel turns, the price of wains begins to fall and the pressure on the Imperial treasury begins to rise dramatically. When that happens interest in the Imperial economy suddenly becomes more pressing.

In recent years, noted Imperial economists like the respected Wintermark scholar, and current [[Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] '''Vauraus Korppitkotka''' of the [[Wintermark_groups#Sussivari|Sussivari]], have published insightful analysis that map out the flow of money into the Imperial treasury. Similar work by the tireless campaigner, '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''' of the First Spark, have aimed to drill home just how important the impact of things like ministries are on the "Anvil economy". Graciana's research largely confirms what both these economists have long been saying - all the money spent at Anvil ultimately circulates around Anvil until it ends up returning to the Imperial treasury.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sussivari.png|align=right|width=200|caption=The Sussivari are known for a particual appreciation of matters magical.}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos.jpg|align=right|caption='''Laurencio di Sarvos''', economic analyst and hammer owner.|width=200}}</div>
The document produced by Laurencio di Sarvos, graphically illustrates how the Anvil economy works. The yellow boxes show where money enters the system - taxation by the Senate, the personal income of wealthy citizens, and so forth. The blue boxes show how this money circulates around Anvil - guerdon payments don't leave Anvil because they are paid to people who then bring the money back to Anvil to spend it. The Bourse works to draw money from everyone attending Anvil, ever directly or indirectly, which it then funnels back to the Senate. Wealth only leaves the system through the red boxes, the upkeep of armies and fortifications or the spending in ministries and similar.

When more money enters the system than leaves the system, the price of wains goes up, and the Senate grows rich. When more money leaves the system than enters it, the price of wains goes down and the Senate's budget is squeezed. Encouraging citizens to pay more at the Bourse auctions might feel virtuous, but since it doesn't change the fundamental money supply in the slightest, all it can possibly do is delay the inevitable correction. Virtuous citizens moving money from the Anvil economy to the Bourse and from there to the Senate cannot be sustained, if the money in circulation in the Anvil economy continues to decline.
<div style="float:right; clear:right;"><quote by="Emperor Giovanni">Those who call the tune must pay the piper.</quote></div>
This design perfectly reflects Giovanni's gloomy disposition. The Emperor ''expected'' his Senate to be profligate in their spending - he changed the constitution to ensure that the burden fell squarely on the heads of the citizens coming to Anvil. His belief was that they, and they alone, might have the collective political power to restrain their senators.

If alternative trades could be found, so that Imperial citizens who attend Anvil could make significant purchases using wains, resources, mana, herbs or similar, that would result in significantly less money leaving the Anvil economy - and by extension more money ultimately flowing into the Imperial treasury. However that is very difficult to do, there are few good options for doing that for the reasons described above, most people want to get paid, in coin, for their services or goods. However increasing the money flowing into the Anvil economy would have the same net effect as decreasing the money flowing out of the Anvil economy - and that might be easier to achieve.

==Cutting Corners==
* '''There are few good options for alternative trades for ministries, but the Senate could abrogate them'''
* '''There are some ministries that could provide a benefit to the Empire without requiring money to operate'''

As mentioned, there are few good options for alternative trades that don't involve coin. The handful that do exist are ad hoc limited options that affect some of the smaller ministries; Graciana is dubious that these will produce significant net benefits to the Imperial treasury.

The drastic solution would be to abrogate all ministries. The Imperial Senate could use a single Senate motion to abrogate every ministry in the Empire. That would have a huge effect, dramatically curbing the powers of some titles and disestablishing others (any title whose only power was to operate a ministry would be abrogated at the same time). Such a motion would mean any investment into the ministry in question was lost - there would be no way to recover the materials used to build the commision and no easy way to repurpose them for some other use.

A less drastic answer might be to abrogate certain specific ministries. With a more tailored approach, it is possible to address the changes as they happen, shifting commissions so that some benefits still accrue. Graciana has looked at four "groups" of ministries - the [[grandmaster|grandmasters]] of the [[Conclave]], the [[ambassador|ambassadors]], the [[Northern trade network]], and the Prosperity ministries that provide bourse resources. In the first three cases, she has identified some benefits that could be had if the Senate acted to remove their ministries. She has not been able to identify benefits that would flow from abrogating the Prosperity ministries and she advises ''against'' dis-establishing them.
<div style="float:right;"><quote by="Lebannon of Haros Water">No, Grandmaster. It is not 'yours'.

It is ours.</quote></div>
====Grandmaster Ministries====
* '''The ministries that provide Grandmasters with crystal mana could be abrogated'''
* '''Doing so would mean an additional 127 crystal mana going directly to the font'''
One group of ministries that see a large amount of money flow from Anvil into the wider Empire are the so-called "mana ministries" possessed by each [[Grandmaster]]. These ministries were greatly enhanced in 384YE when the Senate [[Honey_and_vinegar#Old_Stones|took advantage of an opportunity]] to expand the mana exchanges in [[Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange|Tassato]], [[Magic Butcher|Temeschwar]], and [[Steward_of_the_Sarvos_Mana_Exchange|Sarvos]]. Graciana estimates that, in total, the Grandmasters have spent over a hundred thrones collectively buying over a thousand crystal mana for their orders over the last year. This is in addition to the mana that is distributed to them via [[Conclave_vault#The_Font|the font]]. It is clearly valuable to have so much additional mana available to the Empire, but the Senate might consider that the costs are not worth the benefits.

The Senate could use a single senate motion to shut these ministries down. If that happened, the civil servants responsible for securing crystal mana for the grandmasters could be redeployed, and the structures used to support them could be repurposed to support a public trade in mana crystals between citizens, with the profits from that operation being used to fund mana purchases for the font.

Graciana calculates that this would result in an additional 127 crystal mana each season being raised for the fount, at no additional cost to the Empire. That would be a significant loss for the Empire - five hundred mana crystals a year is significantly less than the thousand mana crystals that the grandmasters purchased between then - but it would represent a considerable saving to the Anvil economy.

====Diplomatic Ministries====
* '''The Senate could end the practice of merchants offering favourable rates to ambassadors'''
* '''They could redefine the role of the ambassador and indicate such gifts are for the benefit of the Empire rather than the ambassador'''
* '''Doing so would remove the ministry, but would also remove the upkeep costs of the embassys the Empire has not embargoed'''

As it currently stands, the [[Imperial Consul]] and each [[ambassador]] oversees an [[embassy]]. Alongside the political powers and prestige an embassy affords an ambassador, they also support a degree of [[Ambassador#Mercantile_Support|mercantile activity]]. Merchants who engage in trade between the Empire and the nation in question, or vice versa, visit the embassy to curry favour with the ambassador. Commonly they take a portion of the items they buy and sell and make them available to the ambassador at favourable prices. This benefit is represented by a ministry that allows the ambassador to directly purchase raw materials from traders and merchants of the associated nation.

This practice obviously leads to questions about what exactly is going on. Virtuous individuals in particular sometimes look at this behaviour with raised eyebrows - these merchants are trying to curry favour with the ambassador to get special treatment. This is usually perfectly innocuous, merchants offer incentives to get their shipments cleared by the dock authorities more quickly than their rivals, or to expedite permits to sell their wares, arrange meetings with their Imperial counterparts, or the like. But in theory, if a merchant were engaged in criminal activity, the ambassador might be the first person they would seek to bribe to look the other way...

It would be relatively straightforward for the Senate to end this practice. With a suitably worded Senate motion they could make it clear that such lobbying is no longer acceptable, for all existing embassies and future embassies. The ministries would be lost. Ambassadors would still be able to engage in direct trade with foreign nations of course, but the practice of merchants bringing goods to the embassies to "trade" at a "special discount" to the Ambassadors would end. None of the diplomats from the foreign nations would bat an eyelid at this change.

That is not to say that the giving of "gifts" is the problem. In practice most of the actual work of operating an embassy is done by the civil service - they could still help foreign merchants with their trade, but any gifts would be understood to a gift to the embassy itself, and by extension the Empire. The civil service could sell these gifts, at least those that had real value, and use the proceeds to pay the costs of running the embassy. That would mean the Empire not need to pay the upkeep costs of any embassay unless they declared war with the nation in question - or embargoed their trade.

The Imperial Senate could remove the ministries from every embassy with a single motion. The impact is not small - removing the ability of the Consul and the ambassadors to purchase goods would save nearly two hundred thrones a year, but it would also cut nearly thirty five thrones a season in upkeep costs.

Of course impoverishing the diplomatic corps, who have presumably been using the profits of their embassy to fund the vital work they do, might be too high a cost for the Senate to stomach. If that was a concern, the Senate could give each title a stipend - that would be drawn directly from the Imperial treasury of course, but it would mean those funds weren't leaving the Anvil economy.

====Northern Trade Network====
* '''The Northern Trade Network was established as a set of ministries but Graciana believes that lacks ambition
* '''Investing in the Northern Trade Network would remove the small-scale individual benefits and improve the situation for the entire territory where they are built
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:500px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Ministry !! Territory
|-
| [[Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post]] || [[Skarsind]]
|-
| [[Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] || [[Hercynia]]
|-
| [[Overseer of the Westward Road]] || [[Karov]]
|-
| [[Northbound Trademaster]] || [[Temeschwar]]
|-
| [[Kalpaheim Tradeholder]] || [[Hahnmark]]
|-
|}

A series of ministries have been established across the northern Empire that together became the [[Northern trade network]]. These ministries, anchored by the [[Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post|Torfast Trading Post]] in [[Skarsind]] connect [[Hahnmark]], [[Hercynia]], [[Skarsind]], [[Temeschwar]], and [[Karov]]. Their establishment saw the northern territories establish closer trade ties among themselves. The Thule also participate in this trade, exchanging their own crystal mana for Imperial ingots and measures.

<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Kalapaheim Tradehall'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Hahnmark#Kalpamark|Kalpamark, Hahnmark]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 wains of [[white granite]], 90 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in businesses is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the "trade profits" and "eastern route" from the Kalpaheim Tradeholder, leaving only the Urdur trade
* Raises the level of investment in businesses in Hahnmark by one, providing 36 extra rings to every business in the territory
* Allows the Kalpaheim Tradeholder to change the additional money provided by the great work to 2 extra ingots of a chosen metal by email to {{template:plot}}
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Torfast Trading Post'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Skarsind#Southpine|Southpine, Skarsind]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 wains of [[white granite]], 90 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in businesses is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the "southern", "western" and "eastern route" from the Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post, leaving only the northern Urdur trade route
* Raises the level of investment in businesses in Skarsind by one, providing 36 extra rings to every business in the territory
* Allows the Bonesetter to change the additional money provided by the great work to 2 extra measures of a chosen forest resouce by email to {{template:plot}}
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Treji Wayhouse'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Hercynia#The_Glen_of_Shadows|The Glen of Shadows, Hercynia]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 wains of [[white granite]], 90 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in herb gardens is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the "trade profits" and "eastern route" from the Broker of Treji Wayhouse, leaving only the Urdur trade
* Raises the level of investment in herb gardens in Hercynia by one, providing two additional bladeroot and one additional marrowort to every herb garden in the territory
* Allows the Broker to change the additional herbs provided by the great work to 3 bladeroot, or 3 marrowort or 3 true vervain or any combination thereof by email to {{template:plot}}
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Delev Market'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Karov#Duzekani|Duzekani, Karov]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 wains of [[white granite]], 150 crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in mines or forests is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Requirement:''' Can only be upgraded if the Treji Warehouse, Torfast Trading Post and Kalapaheim Tradehall have all been converted into great works
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the "trade profits" from the Overseer of the Westward Road, leaving only the Urdur trade
* Raises the level of investment in mines and forests in Karov by one, providing 2 additional materials to every mine and forest in the territory
* Allows the Broker to change the additional ingots and measures provided by the great work to 36 rings instead by email to {{template:plot}}
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Northbound Trade'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Temeschwar|Hanuri|Hanuri, Temeschwar]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 60 wains of [[white granite]], 180 crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in businesses is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Requirement:''' Can only be upgraded if the Treji Warehouse, Torfast Trading Post, Kalapaheim Tradehall, and Delev Market have all been converted into great works
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the "trade profits" and "eastern route" from the Northbound Trademaster, leaving only the Urdur trade
* Raises the level of investment in businesses in Temeschwar by one, providing 36 additional rings to every business in the territory
* Allows the Trademaster to change the additional money provided by the great work to two measures or two ingots by email to {{template:plot}}
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>

The network itself grew up fairly haphazardly, with each new member added improving the opportunities for each of the others. In each case, money is used to buy trade goods that the other nations in the network have in abundance. Graciana sees an opportunity here; rather than focusing the trade through one location, these ministries could be the basis for securing larger-scale prosperity across the territory.

In each case, the existing structure would need considerable further investment - and the costs involved are not small. Each would require a Senate motion or announcement by someone able to commission a great work - they could '''not''' be done with a single commission. In each case, the relevant title holder would see the loss of all trade privileges currently granted by the ministry, bar the oversight of trade with the Thule. Once the work to upgrade the existing commission into a great work was complete, the ministry would only be able to acquire mana crystals from the Urdur trade option in each case - all other options would be lost.

The benefits could be considerable however, providing significant boosts to income for businesses and other personal resources across the north territories of the Empire. In most cases, the work could be done independently of the other branches of the northern trade network, with the exception of the Delev Market in Karov and the trade hub in Temeschwar. The Delev Market, would only provide benefits to mines and businesses once the Treji Warehouse, Torfast Trading Post and Kalapaheim Tradehall were upgraded. The trade hub in Temeschwar would only provide benefits to businesses once the overhaul of ''all'' the other branches of the network was complete.

====Prosperity Ministries====
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:500px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Ministry !! Nation !! Resources
|-
| [[Cinderpath Custodian|Cinder Path Exchange]] || Highguard|| Mithril
|-
| [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower|Iron Tower]] || Varushka || Mithril
|-
| [[Mistress of the Dust Parador|Parador of Dust]] || Brass Coast || Mithril
|-
| [[Reeve of Boar's Market|Boar's Market]] || Dawn || Mithril, white granite, and weirwood
|-
| [[Broker of the Invisible Cord|Invisible Cord Brokerage]] || Navarr || Weirwood
|-
| [[Talon of Kaupahall|Kaupahall]] || Wintermark || White granite and ilium
|-
|}
* '''The six "Prosperity ministries" allow title holders to purchase wains and rings of ilium from Imperial citizens'''
* '''They were established following the efforts of the Prosperity Assembly to ensure virtuous citizens are paid fairly for their resources'''
* '''Large sums of money are spent acquiring bourse materials through these ministries'''
* '''Abrograting these ministres would be counter-productive, citizens would find other ways to sell wains to people coming to Anvil'''

In the last several years, a series of ministries arose as a result of the Prosperity assembly drive to disband the private and public auctions and ensure Imperial citizens with wains to sell received ''just reward for their labour''. The first was the [[Cinderpath Custodian|Cinder Path Exchange]] in [[Highguard]], but the practice quickly spread to other nations. These specialised ministries allow the purchase of [[white granite]], [[mithril]], [[weirwood]], and [[ilium]] from citizens of a nation at a "fair price", as determined by the prosperous citizens of the Empire. While the money spent on these resources continues to enrich Imperial citizens, those who receive it rarely come to Anvil so it does not appear in the Imperial treasury.

Graciana looks into the possibility of altering these ministries so that they would not rely on Imperial coinage but she stops once she identifies the fundamental problem. These ministries replaced the need for citizens to send wains to Anvil to be sold by public auction - if they were abrograted or repurposed in some way - then it is certain that citizens would find some other way to sell their excess wains to the wealthy citizens at Anvil. It might mean less money leaving the Anvil economy - but it could mean ''more'' money escaping the Imperial treasury, it is impossible to predict.

As such Graciana suggests that the Senate avoid changing any ministries that allow the title holder to purchase bourse resources from Imperial citizens, at least if they are seeking to increase the amount of funds available.

==Clipping Coins==
* '''Graciana has identified half a dozen opportunities to alter existing ministries to operate without spending coin'''

While Graciana has found few systemic ways to remove the need to spend coin when operating ministries, she has idenfied a number of individual opportunities to change specific ministries. In many cases these opportunities involve deals with foreigners. Graciana is no diplomat, but [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] is able to help with these negotiations - any of which the Empire could take up or turn down without causing undue offence.

As ever, any deal with foreigners is inherently fragile - any ministry that relies on a deal with a foreign power will cease to function if the Empire finds itself at war with that nation.

===Axos and the Bursars===
* '''The Halls of Maykop are prepared to exhange crystal mana for the materials they need to make magic items'''
* '''The Halls are interested in closer links with the Bursar of the Conclave'''
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Bursar of the Conclave'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 Dragonbone</td><td>8 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 Dragonbone, 6 Beggar's Lye</td><td>16 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 Dragonbone, 10 Beggar's Lye, 7 Ambergelt</td><td>24 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 Dragonbone, 10 Beggar's Lye, 10 Ambergelt, 10 Irridescent Gloaming</td><td>32 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 Dragonbone, 15 Beggar's Lye, 10 Ambergelt, 10 Irridescent Gloaming</td><td>40 mana crystals</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House of Spirits'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 liao</td><td>1 ring of [[ilium]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>80 liao</td><td>2 rings of ilium</td></tr>
<tr><td>125 liao</td><td>3 rings of ilium</td></tr>
<tr><td>175 liao</td><td>4 rings of ilium</td></tr>
<tr><td>230 liao</td><td>5 rings of ilium</td></tr>
</table>
</div>

The [[Bursar of the Conclave]] has been empowered by the Imperial Senate to purchase mana for the Conclave from Imperial citizens. The Axou are usually a good source for mana and it appears they are open to getting involved with the ministry. Two things make them suitable for this, one is that the Axou from the Halls of Maykop seem keen to forge closer links with the Bursar - and the other is that this citadel would be prepared to take payment in forest materials rather than Imperial coin.

The [[Bursar of the House of Spirits]] is responsible for the House of Spirits in [[Casinea]]. This remote campus hosts students from the College of Necromantia in Maykop. Despite their willingness to help, the Axou are not prepared to accept forest materials for their precious ilium, however they would be prepared to accept large amounts of liao instead.

The Imperial Senate could use a single Senate motion to accept the two Axou offers.

===Sarcophan and the Kruidenkenner===
* '''The Sarcophan are prepared to barter metals for herbs in the two Kruidenkenner trade enclaves'''

<table style="width:400px; float: right; margin-left:10px; clear: right;" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Trademaster Cerulean Mazzarine'''</td></td>
<tr><td>6 green iron</td><td>12 cerulean mazzarine</td></tr>
<tr><td>15 green iron</td><td>24 cerulean mazzarine</td></tr>
<tr><td>27 green iron</td><td>36 cerulean mazzarine</td></tr>
</table>

<table style="width:400px; float: right; margin-left:10px; clear: right;" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Trademaster Herbs'''</td></td>
<tr><td>10 tempest jade</td><td>16 random herbs</td></tr>
<tr><td>22 tempest jade</td><td>32 random herbs</td></tr>
<tr><td>36 tempest jade</td><td>48 random herbs</td></tr>
</table>

<table style="width:400px; float: right; margin-left:10px; clear: right;" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Root and Stem'''</td></td>
<tr><td>6 orichalcum</td><td>12 bladeroot</td></tr>
<tr><td>15 orichalcum</td><td>24 bladeroot</td></tr>
<tr><td>27 orichalcum</td><td>36 bladeroot</td></tr>
</table>

The Kruidenkenner, the large Sarcophan trading house that supplies herbs to the [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] and the [[Master of the Root and Stem]], are also prepared to indulge the Empire switch to barter at their establishments. They are quick to produce a proposed schedule of purchases and prices at each of the two establishments. There is some suggestion that the returns on these trades might not be as profitable as the current arrangements - the Kruidenkenner don't deny that accusation exactly - rather they point out that it is the Empire seeking to change the arrangements and that barter is inherently more expensive.

The Imperial Senate could use a single motion to accept all the changes proposed by the Kruidenkenner - if that happened then the ministries associated with the titles would require ingots to operate them from then on, rather than coin.

===The Ossium Trade===
* '''Merchants in Ossium would be prepared to accept ingots in place of coin for the goods available to the Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market and the Apothecary of Orieb'''
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Merchant Boyar Ossium herbs'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>8 weltsilver</td><td>6 doses of [[marrowort]], 10 random [[herb|herbs]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 weltsilver, 8 orichalcum</td><td>13 doses of [[marrowort]], 20 random herbs</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 weltsilver, 10 orichalcum, 10 green iron</td><td>20 doses of [[marrowort]], 30 random herbs</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Orieb Apothecary Herbs'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 tempest jade</td><td>14 random herbs, 1 dose of realmsroot</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 tempest jade, 9 weltsilver</td><td>28 random herbs, 2 doses of realmsroot</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 tempest jade, 9 weltsilver, 6 green iron</td><td>42 random herbs, 3 doses of realmsroot</td></tr>
</table>

</div>
Not all the opportunities that Graciana has identified involve trade with foreigners. Citizens in Ossium have an insatiable desire for ingots, which are used by artisans in the territory to make fine magical weapons for sale. The Ketsov are open to the idea of procuring the herbs currently purchased by the [[Apothecary of Orieb]] and the [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] in exchange for ingots.

On the face of it, this seems like a simple deal, but Graciana cautions that the Ketsov, in particular, have proven "touchy" in recent years, having had run-ins with the Synod and with some of their Varushkan peers. This proposal won't make those problems any worse, but it would make the trade through the Stinking Market and the Orieb dependent on the continued involvement of the Ketsov. If relations with them soured, the Merchant-Boyar and the Apothecary would need to deal with the fallout of that if they wanted to continue operating their ministry.

The Imperial Senate could use a single motion to accept all the changes proposed by the Ketsov - if that happened then the ministries associated with the titles would require ingots to purchase herbs them from then on, rather than coin.

==Growing the Pot==
* '''Graciana has looked for alternative ways to increase the funds flowing into the Anvil economy'''
* '''She has identified numerous outstanding opportunities for great works, all of which ultimately mean more money paid to the Senate in the bourse auction'''

Graciana has done her best to find ways to repurpose existing ministries, but it is clear that the options are limited. At the point where it is clear that there are no further opportunities to do so, she devotes the remaining time to looking for alternative solutions. As with any appraisal, the ideal is for the prognosticator's office to know what the underlying ''problem'' is that the Senate are looking to solve. Stopping ministries spending coin to buy goods is a "solution" to a problem - the outcome of which would be that less money left the Anvil economy. It seems reasonable therefore, to guess that the real problem the Senate are trying to solve is to get more money to flow into the Imperial treasury. Stopping ministries from spending coin would achieve that, but it's far from the only way.

The clear alternative to stopping money leaving the Anvil economy is to take steps to make more money flow into the Anvil economy. The obvious way to do that would be to build great works that boost the profits of farms and businesses across the Empire. It's not a cheap solution, but the benefits are clear - yeofolk and business owners with more money in their pockets to spend at anvil means more money in the Imperial treasury. It's not possible for Graciana to invest a lot of time into looking for new opportunities to raise great works, that is outside the scope of the appraisal, but she has been able to do a thorough review of outstanding opportunities to see which ones are still available.

===Inkworks at Joharra===
* '''The bustling industry of Joharra was ruined by an attack from Isidore i Boyaga'''
* '''An inkworks could be built in Oranseri to aid and assist businesses in Feroz'''
* '''The inkworks would remove the impoverished quality from the region'''
*'''It would also boost the seasonal income of scriveners by 22 rings for a year once completed'''
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Inkworks of Joharra'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Oranseri, Feroz</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 60 white granite and 60 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increases investment in businesses is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Increases the level of investment of businesses in Feroz by one.
* Removes the impoverished quality from Oranseri.
* Increases the seasonal income of scriveners by 22 rings for a year.
* Creates the title of ''Scrivener of the Inkworks''</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Scrivener of the Inkworks'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Brass Coast National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' [[Tally of the Votes]] or Senate</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Receives 15 measures of iridescent gloaming each season.
* Receives a Therasia's Chain each year.
* Can make an announcement in the Senate to redirect the Inkworks if there is a [[opportunity]] that explicitly allows it.</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To direct the inkworks as needed, to support the scriveners of Feroz, and to ensure contracts are being kept in the Brass Coast</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Restriction''' This title will only receive a Therasia's Chain if the holder is a scrivener</td></tr>
</table></div>
In Winter 386YE, Graciana presented a proposal for a new [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|Inkworks at Joharra]] in Feroz. The facility offered a number of useful benefits, removing the impoverished quality from Oranseri and boosting income of businessholders across the territory. As it turns out, it would also boost the income of scriveners by 22 rings for one year after completion, all of which would help to sustain the Anvil economy.

The opportunity is still available, without any changes.

===Fish and Fur in Sermersuaq===
* '''A fishery built at the town of Atalaq would support farms and fisherfolk across the territory'''
* '''A grand trading post in southern Sermersuaq would provide a significant boost to businesses in the territory'''
* '''It would provide additional benefits to Wintermark ships trading with foreign ports by providing rich luxury goods to sell'''
* '''The Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage would be in prime position to make a profit from the increased availability of fine, exotic meats'''
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Atalaq Fishery'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sealtoq, Sermersuaq</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 75 weirwood, 25 mithril, 300 crowns, 6 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work that increases investment in farms is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases investment in farms in Sermersuaq from two to three.
* Allows farms owned by Suaq characters to diversify their farm to produce a mana crystal.</td></tr></table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Atalaq Tradehall'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sealtoq, Sermersuaq</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 weirwood, 150 crowns, 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work that increases investment in businesses is built in the territory</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases investment in businesses in Sermersuaq by one.
* Increase taxation from Sermersuaq by 4 thrones.
* Increases income of the Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage by 7 crowns
* Boosts income of Wintermark fleet owners by 36 rings for one year whenever they engage in trade with foreign nations</td></tr></table></div>
Graciana also provided a [[Farm, fur, and fish|report]] on opportunities for investment in Skarsind in Summer 386YE. The proposal for the Atalaq Fishery would have provided 36 rings to every farm in Skarsind as well as allowing them to diversify their farms to acquire mana crystals.

Perhaps of more interest to the Senate is the less ambitious project to establish the Atalaq Tradehall. That would have increased investment in businesses in Sermersuaq, but it would also benefit the treasury directly, increasing taxation from the territory by 4 thrones. The burst of luxury goods and materials the trade post provided would have also helped Wintermark traders, providing an additional 36 rings to any fleet owner in a Wintermark territory whenever they engaged in [[Fleet#Trade|trade]] with foreign nations. It would permanently boost the income of the Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage by 7 crowns each event.

The opportunity is still available, without any changes.

===Marshways in Kallavesa===
* '''The marshways would raise the level of investment in herb gardens and businesses by one in Kallavesa'''
* '''It would cost 80 wains of weirwood, 240 crowns and take a year to complete'''
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Kallevesa Marshways'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Great work]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Kallavesa</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 wains of weirwood, 240 crowns, 6 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work that increases investment in herb gardens or businesses is built in Kallavesa</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Raises the level investment in businesses in Kallavesa by one providing an additional 36 rings
* Raises the level investment in herb gardens in Kallavesa by one providing two true vervain, and one Marrowort in Spring, one Cerulean Mazzarine in Summer, one Imperial Roseweald in Autumn, and one Bladeroot in Winter
* Creates a [[Venture#Guarding_Ventures|guarding venture]] for Wintermark and Dawnish military units to protect the merchants using the marshways in exchange for herbs
</td></tr></table></div>

As part of her appraisal on [[Road_out_of_nowhere#Marshways|roads]] in Winter 385YE, Graciana suggested the Senate could establish marshways across the marshy territories of the Empire, Kallavesa, Therunin and Bregasland. All three territories have a strong tradition of boat use – not sea-going ships but various incarnations of flat-bottomed skiffs and punts that pole the shallow waters of the fens. The ideas was to establish a number of ferries, river-side wayhouses, strategically placed bridges, jetties, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portage portage rails], and boatworks that she called the ''Marshways''.

Sadly Therunin and Bregasland are currently suffering from invasion and war; no longer controlled by the Empire, the idea of building there is out of the question. However, Kallevesa is still ripe for investment - so Graciana has updated the costs for just the Wintermark territory. That would cut costs considerably - to 80 wains of weirwood and 240 crowns - but it could be done in six months. Once it was finished, it would raise the level of investment for businesses providing an additional 36 rings every season. It would also raise the level of investment for herb gardens by one, providing two true vervain, and one seasonal herb - Marrowort in Spring, Cerulean Mazzarine in Summer, Imperial Roseweald in Autumn, and Bladeroot in Winter.

In the original proposal, Graciana suggested that the Senate establish a title-holder to oversee the marshways and be responsible for their safety. The position would then be able to fund their operations by purchasing herbs from merchants using the marshways. Given the purpose of the appraisal, Graciana has updated the original plan - now the completion of the marshways would create a new guarding venture for Wintermark and Dawnish military units to protect merchants using the Marshways. The new version of the opportunity replaces the original.

===Docks in Madruga===
* '''There is a proposal to build the Municipal Docks in Calvos to spur the growth of the town in the coming years'''
* '''If built, the municipal docks would create conditions for Calvos to ultimately grow into one of great cities of the Empire'''
* '''The Docks would have an upkeep of 5 thrones a season but would increase taxation by 12 thrones a season'''
* '''Once complete the docks would provide significant benefits in Madruga, and in the Brass Coast as a whole'''
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Municipal Docks'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work (Shipyard)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Calvos Sound, Madruga </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 white granite, 40 weirwood and 45 Thrones, 12 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work that increases investment in fleets is built in Madruga</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 5 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment in fleets in Madruga engaging in trading, questing or raiding
* Raises the level of investment in businesses in Madruga
* Reduces the cost for Freeborn characters to upgrade fleets by one weirwood for a year after completion
* Raises income of all Freeborn characters by 7 rings for a year after completion
* Boosts taxation from the territory by 12 thrones a season
* Protects Calvos Sounds as a level one fortification
* Acts as a shipyard allowing the construction or refuge of up to two navies at a time
* Creates a new questing Voyage for Freeborn fleets, Hunt the Free Landing Kraken
* Creates the Freeborn position Quaymaster of the Municipal Docks
* Includes personal offices and accommodation for the Quaymaster and their family
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Quaymaster of the Municipal Docks'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Freeborn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Can purchase goods from Commonwealth ships docking at Calvos</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversee the Municipal Docks</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color:LightYellow;">'''Trade Purchases Volkavaar'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 rings</td><td>1 Hero Stones</td></tr>
<tr><td>120 rings</td><td>2 Hero Stones</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color:LightYellow;">'''Trade Purchases Leerdam'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>36 rings</td><td>1 draught of Clear Headedness</td></tr>
<tr><td>80 rings</td><td>2 draughts of Clear Headedness</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
In Spring 387YE, Gisli 'the Provider' Baerson paid Professor Immnual Gelberg's team of visiting scholars to investigate the possibilities for building a new city in the former Freeborn territory of Madruga. The Commonwealth academics created a [[Germinating_a_city|plan]] to build new municipal docks in Madruga that would raise the level of investment in fleets in Madruga engaging in trading, questing or raiding and raise the level of investment in businesses in the territory. They would raise the income of all Freeborn characters by 7 rings for a year after completion and boost taxation from the territory by 12 thrones a season. All these benefits would result in more money flowing into the economy at Anvil.

Those are not the only benefits - the new docks would reduce the cost for Freeborn characters to upgrade their fleets by one weirwood for a year after completion and protect Calvos Sounds as a level one [[fortification]]. The docks would also act as a [[shipyard]], allowing the construction or refuge of up to two navies at a time and create a new questing voyage for Freeborn fleets; '''Hunt the Free Landing Kraken'''. None of these additional benefits result in more money directly in the Imperial treasury, however.

Professor Gelberg's plan also included the creation of a Freeborn position Quaymaster of the Municipal Docks which would include personal offices and accommodation for the Quaymaster and their family and give them access to a ministry that would allow them to spend a small amount of money to purchase rare items and potions. That would result in ''less'' money flowing into the Anvil economy - a clearly net negative if the Senate is seeking to get rid of ministries. However, the sums of money involved are relatively small - a tiny fraction of the benefits. Graciana is absolutely certain that the net effect would be significantly more money coming to the treasury.

The opportunity is still available, without any changes.

===Markets in Delev===
* '''Delev Market could be expanded to make the place a true centre of trade and commerce to rival Temeschwar'''
* '''Completing the expansion of the market would require 50 wains of white granite, 150 crowns, and take three months'''
* '''It would increase investment in businesses in Karov by one rank, adding 36 rings each season to their production'''
* '''As the Little Boyar's Welcome has been warded, the market will ''also'' improve taxation from the territory by 4 thrones'''
* '''This commission would replace the opportunity to upgrade the Delev Market run by the Overseer of the Westerward Road'''
* '''It could increase the money spent by several existing ministries'''

<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Great Market at Delev'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Delev, Duzekani, Karov</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 white granite, 150 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 1 season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year or until another great work that increases investment in businesses is built in Karov</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment in businesses in Karov by one
* Allows citizens to take a business in Karov for free for one year after completion
* Adds an additional purchase rank to the [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower|Iron Tower]], [[Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak|Korotny Docks]] and the [[Overseer of the Westward Road|Delev Market]]
* Increases taxation of Karov by an additional 4 thrones a season if the Little Boyar's Welcome is also upgraded
* Would allow Senate to use a motion to permit the Boyar of the Iron Roads to create a sinecure instead of a ministry each season without using a Senate commission
</td></tr>
</table></div>

Rather than the fairly simple upgrade of the Delev Market that Graciana proposed to curtail the trade conducted by the Overseer of the Westward Road, the Senate could choose to engage in a major upgraded of the Market.

The proposals for this were published nearly a year ago in an appraisal by Naomi of Virtue's Rest. Her plan involved the creation of the Great Market at Delev which would raise the level of investment in businesses in Karov by one, but would also allow citizens to take a business in Karov for free for one year after completion. If her proposal for the Little Boyar's Welcome was also commissioned it would increase taxation from Karov by four thrones a season and allow the Senate to use a motion to permit the Boyar of the Iron Roads to create a sinecure instead of a ministry each season without using a Senate commission.

There are two key drawbacks to this plan - the first is that it is incompatible with the plans Graciana has drawn up to convert the existing market facilities run by the Overseer of the Westward Road. The Senate could commission the Great Market or convert the existing ministry to a great work - but not both.

The second drawback is that the work would provide additional trade opportunities for the [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]], and the [[Overseer of the Westward Road]] to trade. It will also provide options for [[Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak]] as prosperity spreads. The net effect would be to add an additional rank to each of the main ministries overseen by these titles.

This commission could easily result in significantly more money leaving the Anvil economy than it brought in - if the Bargainer and the Harbourmaster took full advantage of the opportunity. Of course, they would have more goods to show for that coin, but that might be slim consolation to a Senate that is focused on saving the Imperial treasury from running dry.

The opportunity is still available, without any changes.

===Friends in High Places===
* '''There is a recent proposal to build roads in Zenith which would raise the level of investment in businesses in the territory'''

Finally, Graciana notes that there is a new appraisal published by her colleague Naomi of Virtue's Rest which includes proposals to [[My_friends_are_my_estate#Northern_Way|build roads in Zenith]] which would raise the level of investment in businesses in the territory.

==Stirring the Pot==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_League.png|align=right|width=200}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Marcher.png|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
* '''One way to increase funds flowing into the Anvil economy would be if more citizens operated farms and businesses'''
* '''The League and Marcher Assembly could enact mandates to encourage their citizens to embrace tradition and support the Imperial economy'''
* '''Such mandates would make it easier for people to switch resources to take a farm or business and cheaper to upgrade a farm or business'''

Studying Laurencio di Sarvos' guide to the Anvil economy, it is clear that another way to increase the funds flowing into the Anvil economy would be to increase the amount of asset income that citizens coming to Anvil have available. Great works are one way to do that - as are casting rituals like [[Streams of Silver]], [[Rivers of Gold]], and the seasonal [[Farm#Rituals|rituals]] for farms. But one of the most effective ways to increase the money available would be if more people at Anvil had farms and businesses, and fewer people operated other resources. In the last decade, there has been a push to encourage citizens to sell their farm or business and take on the running of a [[military unit]] to support the war effort. However, Graciana claims that a better way to support the war effort might be to dispense with military units and acquire a business or a farm.

In practice, there isn't great demand for this in most places, and Graciana has little success in looking for opportunities to help encourage the practice, with two notable exceptions. Both the League and the Marches have strong cultural traditions that make ownership of businesses and farms important respectively - and what is more, owning a business in the League or a farm in the Marches comes with considerable political influence.

Of course, the Senate can't mandate that Marcher and League citizens put down their arms and take up running a farm or a business - but there is one body that could encourage it. The Synod could use a mandate to urge citizens of the Marches and the League to embrace traditional values, not just out of Pride and Ambition - but out of Loyalty to the needs of the Empire.

{{mandate|mandate=Pride in small things, loyalty to great ones. We send {named priest} with 50 doses of liao to encourage Marcher citizens to settle the land. War is a thrice-ploughed field.|assembly=Marcher Assembly}}

{{mandate|mandate=Nothing great without cost. We send {named priest} with 50 doses of liao to encourage League citizens to invest in a business. Coin counts, and everything costs.|assembly=League Assembly}}

If these mandates are passed in the relevant assemblies, then it will create an opportunity for one year for any character of that nation to change a military unit, fleet, herb garden, mine or forest to a farm (in the Marches) or a business (in the League) without incurring a cost. Crucially, the new resource will be the same level as any resource they give up to make the change - reflecting local support for their efforts to embrace their national traditions and support the Imperial economy.

What is more, there will a groundswell of support for League and Marchers looking to improve their resources. If the Marcher mandate is passed then any farm in the Marches can be upgraded for one wain fewer than normal (to a minimum of one) for one year. If the League mandate is passed then any business in the League can be upgraded for one wain fewer than normal (to a minimum of one) for one year.
==Further Reading==
* [[Appraisal]]
* [[Ministry]]
* [[Imperial treasury]]

My friends are my estate

2026-02-27T21:42:12Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* The Dark Mesa */ Adding a space

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]

<ic>Arius didn't roll their eyes, but focused on making last minute adjustments to the plans laid out across the table. Their appointment with the prognosticator was in barely an hour and the architect still wasn't entirely happy with some of the details. Also, the Leaguers were arguing again, something which had become a theme every time they came together to discuss the plan.

"I'm sorry," said Karolin, trying to keep her patience. "But I do not see why this proposal requires a big statue in the middle of it. How does that promote the shipwright's arts exactly?"

Rafe shook his head, grin fixed, hands dancing as he talked as usual. "No, see, it makes perfect sense."

"But it's the ''mountebank''. They may be dressed up as the sailor, but in many ways that makes things worse given some of the resonances."

"Oh for sure," agreed Rafe in a way that made it clear he did not, in fact, agree with his colleague. "But also, think about it. As a mascot for Apulian it's ideal! Let me explain!"

"I doubt we can stop you," interjected Hyame d'Apulian. The orc was leant back in his chair, boots on the table, dividing his time between the conversation and a large box of chocolate-covered cherries balanced on his stomach. Rafe ignored him.

"Everyone talks about Apulian as the fifth city of the League," explained Rafe. "We'll always be the newest city, until the nation incorporates somewhere else, and even then we'll be listed ''after'' the other four. Tassato, Temeschwar, Sarvos, Holberg. They all have centuries of history."

"Apulian has centuries of history," interrupted Arius. The Urizen architect didn't look up from the plans scattered across the table between them. They leant forward as they spoke and made a slight adjustment to one of the diagrams. "Indeed, it could be argued that the city has ''more'' history than some of the League given my people were here before yours arrived on these shores."

"I don't disagree," said Rafe. "But also no. That was, without offence, Urizen history and that doesn't entirely count. You see?"

"I'm not sure I do..." began Arius, but Rafe continued speaking as if they had not spoken. The robed merrow closed their eyes momentarily, drawing their poise around them like a cloak, and continued tweaking the plans. Karolin noted their lips were quite thin, however, and suspected they were not used to being talked over.

"For hundreds of years it was a glorified town - no offence Arius - and then it was Grendel - and now it's League and I'm sorry but that counts for a great deal. But we're the newest child on the street, here. We've not really claimed our place. We're "the place the orcs came from" - no offence Hyame - and the "city below" where all the night magicians are dicking about - no offence Karolin - and that's about all the rest of the League thinks of us. The Mountebank is ''exactly'' the iconic presence we need. The upstart, the clever rascal, the spirit of transformation and... and..."

"Unleashed primal forces and destruction?" said Hyame, even more amused. The League orc dropped his feet from the table and leant forward. "Disguise and concealment? Dangerous emotions? Or given you've chosen the Sailor, a short-lived period of lavish entertainment that leaves you with a sword with no hilt? A blowhard and a braggart?"

Rafe coloured a little, but soldiered on.

"Look, I'm just saying. This is only part of it. I hear people saying we can't compete with Sarvos, or Holberg. We were barely in the great competition for paragons' sake! But I say where's your ''ambition''? What are we even ''here'' for if we ''don't'' compete with the other cities? If we don't nail our sails to the mast and show them that we are ''here'' and we are ''League''!"

"And a statue of the Sailor says all that does it?" Karolin asked quietly. Rafe fell silent, and huffed a great sigh.

"Well, only a bit. Unless... unless..." His eyes flared with light again, and he became animated again. "Unless we build the biggest goddam statue of the Sailor the world has ever seen and stick two fingers up to il Volpe and Sarvos! Then we'd ''really'' be sending a message to the rest of the League that we're coming after their crowns!"

As he'd spoken, Rafe had jumped up onto the table and posed dramatically, one foot in a plate of rice and the other on the plans for the new boatyard, two fingers raised in a traditional gesture of defiance. Hyame applauded, only slightly sarcastically. Karolin shook her head, face clouded with doubt.

Arius didn't roll their eyes, and held their peace, and not for the first time wondered why the League was like this, and why they were so drawn to their often misplaced enthusiasms. Not for the first time they promised themselves that when ''this'' project was done they would head back up into the mountains for a little peace and quiet... knowing as they did so they were fooling nobody least of all themselves.</ic>

<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorSpiral.jpg|caption='''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', Senator for Spiral|align=left|width=350}}</div>
==Overview==
[[Spiral]], for centuries [[Urizen]] heartland, now part of [[the League]]. The transition has not been entirely trouble-free, but [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Treaty_with_Urizen_of_the_Silver_Flame|the treaty with the Silver Flame]], the non-Imperial Urizen has tamped down the risk of open conflict. Members of the Synod have been attempting to heal the rift, with more positive sentiments emerging from both sides. The League Assembly endorsed [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_71|Isaia Pavone di Sarvos' statement of principle]] calling for people to ''"enjoy the fruits of both nations’ labour together, now and in years to come"'' with a greater majority. If the Urizen Assembly were a little less enthusiastic about [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_163|Halkyon of the Myriad Stream's complimentary statement]] that is perhaps understandable given the circumstances.

Where the two sides have managed to cooperate, the results have been impressive. Projects like [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]] and [[Damming the Doubt]] demonstrate what can be achieved for both nations when they work together. During the Autumn Equinox, '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''' the [[Senator]] for Spiral, proposed a timely [[appraisal]] to build on these successes by looking "for ways to draw on the best of League innovation and Urizen wisdom to bolster Spiral's prosperity." The Senate agreed, and as requested [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] was dispatched to explore [[opportunity|opportunities]] in the south-eastern Empire.

As is ever the case in Spiral, the work is made more difficult by the omnipresent yoke of the {{Black Plateau}}. The malignant force that squats at the centre of the [[territory]] exacerbates every bad feeling, every doubt, and if not checked seeps into the spirit of anyone who spends time in the territory. Urizen ingenuity in the form of [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] has helped blunt its effects, at least in the remaining [[spire|spires]] and in the settlements of the League, but the rocky land between settlements remains difficult and dangerous.

Fleets, businesses, military units and farms are all suffering particularly badly from the effects of the {{Black Plateau}}. There's precious little point in trying to help farms, since there are so few of them, but it is clear that one of the simplest ways to boost the Prosperity of Spiral might be to find an approach that could mitigate the problems that the other resources are suffering.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBLeague.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
==Situation in Spiral==
* '''Relations between the League citizens, and remaining Urizen citizens, are becoming easier
Some have compared the city of Apulian with [[Temeschwar]] - a League city with a similar past in that it combines [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Wisdom]] with League [[Ambition]]. While the Plateau remains a problem, recent developments have gone some way towards helping bolster the prosperity of Spiral. The creation of the [[Road_out_of_nowhere#Southern_Skyways|Bridge of the Air]] has seen several smaller "skyways" link isolated spires and settlements, ease passage through more difficult areas, and greatly improve trade between and through the mountains. The completion of [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]], the grand highway that runs through southern Spiral and links [[Mareave]] to the rest of the Empire, has likewise done wonders for the wealth of the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] in particular.

Naomi is the ideal choice to try to bring League and Urizen minds together to work on the problem. She always focuses on finding the most diplomatic possible solution to the problems she is dispatched to examine. She is known to be adroit at identifying options that are best placed to satisfy the concerns of the people affected though she tends to concentrate on the best possible solution to a problem rather than the cheapest or the most efficient.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBUrizen.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
The timing is also apposite - work on the [[Construct_Barossa_University_of_Dramaturgical_Arts|new College of the Dramaturgical Arts]] is underway, but the high costs involved have meant progress is slow. The College should prove a valuable boon for the territory, especially for those interested in the arts of [[Dramaturgy]], provided some way can be found to fund the development.

There are several areas, then, that Naomi has explored. The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies just to the south of Spiral and has recently become a "protectorate" of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - a people known for their love of trade and enthusiasm for wealth who are already invested in the Empire. The city of Apulian is expanding and growing in leaps and bounds, clearly benefitting from the fusion of Urizeni and League magical lore. The spires of the highlands are rich in magical understanding, crystal mana, and magical metals.

==Night Sailing==
* '''Building a specialised dock in Apulian would remove the penalties suffered by Imperial fleets in Spiral'''
* '''It would also provide benefits to Spiral fleets engaged in espionage, scouting, and smuggling'''
* '''It could serve as a refuge for an Imperial navy'''
* '''It would bring more maritime trade into Apulian and increase taxation by 2 thrones a season'''

The city of Apulian is a bustling port with an eclectic feel. It grew slowly over the years, but the infusion of settlers, first the Grendel and then the League have ushered in two major waves of expansion. Now the docks are extensive, but syncretised, merging many different styles of architecture, Imperial and otherwise. Trade has grown with it, with more ships from foreign ports as well as vessels from Highguard and the Brass Coast seen entering the harbour.

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Obsidian Shipyard'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 35 wains of weirwood, 25 wains of mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver, 180 crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets taking a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sarcophan port
* Lowers the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sumaah or Commonwealth port
* Provides [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] to Imperial navies
* Increases taxation by two thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Increasing the costs to 85 weirwood, 50 mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver and 405 crowns would increase the ''benefits'' to fleets to two ranks rather than one and increase the taxation by five thrones a season</td></tr>
</td></tr>
</table></div>

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''</big>Ambitious Statuary</big>'''<p>While the statue of the Sailor is integrated into the Obsidian Shipyards, it is not a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos. On the other hand, Ambition is a virtue and there's no reason it ''couldn't'' be a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos... All it would need is a little vision, some engineering know-how to scale it up a little, and a large amount of white granite.</p>

Whoever commissions the Obsidian Shipwrights could choose to increase the costs by 50 white granite, 25 mithril, and 225 crowns, and add an extra six months to the construction. The Sailor would then be a massive figure, gazing indulgently down on the docks and towering over the city of Apulian. Another wonder of the world! This would increase the level of investment in Spiral's fleets by another rank, fleets engaged in trade with Sarcophan or [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] actions would gain a total of two ranks. It would also increase the taxation by five thrones rather than two and further cement Apulian as a rival to Sarvos, as well as a centre of dramaturgical excellence.

One of the Urizen dramaturgists, incidentally, points out that whether a giant statue is built or not is besides the point because they argue that instead of the Sailor, the best choice for a statue on the Obsidian Shipwrights is [[the Witch]] who represents mysteries, common sense, and [[Prosperity]]. There's no reason that whoever commissions the construction couldn't specify that the statue should be of the Witch instead of the Sailor - either would work fine (other personae would be too dissonant with obfuscation to complement the work).</box></div>
The looming presence of {{Black Plateau}} remains the biggest impediment to further expansion of the trade. Until recently, moving goods and passengers across the Bay of Catazar by sail was preferable to travel under the Plateau's sinister gaze. The creation of Curstag's Way, complete with rest stops infused with mithril, made it easier to move goods by land in the territory. Could a similar solution benefit the Apulian docks?

While [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] protects any structure properly infused with [[mithril]], that's little comfort to ship's crews. Among some of the first people to arrange an appointment with Naomi when she arrived in Apulian were a loose association of ship owners and merchant traders supported by members of the Purple Sail ''sodality''. While most were League citizens, there were a handful of Urizen interests represented as well as some [[Sarcophan Delves|Sarcophan]] and a merchant from [[Mareave#Beoaridh|Beoraidh]]. All were keen to find a way to ameliorate the effects of the Plateau on shipping.

Much discussion between various experts ensues, but in the end it is the seagoing expertise of Danilo di Tassato, a former gondolier and reckoner, and an Urizeni [[seer]], Procopius of the Shadow Moon that provides the answer. Between them they have developed a way to infuse [[mithril]] and [[weltsilver]] into the hulls and sails of ships to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}} by wrapping the vessel in whispers of shadow pulled from the Night realm. According to Procopius, it works because the enchantments woven into the ship make it harder for the {{Black Plateau}} to "see" the vessel, which has some rather disturbing implications. Regardless of how the magic works, a night-time trip across the bay in Danilo's converted [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumboat Sarcophan Bumboat] is enough to prove to Naomi and her team that the approach is undeniably effective.

The demonstration draws interest from many, including the Sarcophan ''College of Silent Voices'' and the League orcs of the [[Pebbles_drawn_from_a_heap#The_Circle_of_Black_Sand|Circle of Black Sand]]. Working together produces an ambitious proposal that might see Apulian eventually rival [[Sarvos]] as a seat of trade. The Obsidian Shipwrights would be an area of the docks dedicated both to building trading vessels, and refitting existing vessels with mithril traceries to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}}. A centrepiece of the construction would be a large mithril inlaid statue of the [[The_Mountebank#The_Sailor|Sailor]]. This raises a few eyebrows - the Sailor is a specific version of [[the Mountebank]] in [[dramaturgy]] associated with suspicious gifts, good times, and trouble. Yet they are also an excellent fit for magic that hides folk from unfriendly eyes. It would in no way rival the [[Sarvos#The_Colossus_of_Sarvos|Colossus of Sarvos]]... but it might send a message about the Ambitions of the people of Apulian.

The shipyards would remove the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}. However, the benefits go further than that. The Night magic would suffuse fleets based in the territory, allowing them to move quickly and quietly, making them excellent spies and smugglers. Every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank bonus whenever they undertake a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action. Such vessels would also be well received in the Sarcophan Delves, providing the same bonus to any [[Fleet#Trading|trading]] action with the Delves - both the [[Foreign_ports#Sarcophan|city itself]], the [[Foreign ports#Betovering|Betovering docks]] but also the less accessible, satellite ports allowing improved access to the medicines of ''Moeraskriden'' or the contraband of ''Schedalhaven''.

Sadly the approach is not completely without drawbacks - the obfuscation provided by the lingering Night magics would inevitably cause consternation in Sumaash and Commonwealth ports. Both nations are sticklers for the rule of law, with little time for smugglers. The suspicion that such a vessel would be sure to arouse means every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank penalty whenever they undertake any trading action with a port controlled by either nation.

This focus on swift, subtle vessels with low draughts means the Shipwrights would be unsuitable for creating an [[Imperial navy]]. Built in harmony with the magics coursing through Apulian, however, the Obsidian Shipwrights would provide a safe haven for warships - it would provide the [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] benefit to a navy that docked in Apulian, where the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] provided further protection.

On which subject...

==Mellow Mists==
<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><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Palace of Mists'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification Upgrade</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 wains of white granite, 240 crowns, a year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Improves the fortification at Apulian to rank two
* Forces attacking the region from the sea (such as [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive|shore offensive]] or the equivalent) suffer a 20% penalty to VPs
* Improves taxation by 5 thrones a season
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Naomi's proposal would upgrade the fortification at Apulian to rank two'''
* '''Forces using shore offensive or equivalent orders would suffer a twenty percent penalty to VPs'''
* '''Bolstering the defences would increase taxation by five thrones a season, offsetting some of the increased upkeep'''
The sea is the lifeblood of Apulian, but it brings with it additional threats. The [[Grendel]] have demonstrated their ruthless capacity to seize Imperial ports with their recent [[To ruin|attack on Elos]]. The [[Children of Wrecks]] have been [[Red_skies|defeated but not destroyed]]. The [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] warships that [[A beacon of smoke|burnt Siroc]] are still out there. Apulian is protected by the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] but there is a limit to what it can achieve, especially against a maritime threat.

League engineers and Urizen architects have worked together to address the problem that is the flip-side of a lot of Apulian's prosperity. Their proposal is to build on the foundation laid by Salt Lord Kaliact. The beautiful, well-fortified palace takes pride of place near the docks but there is more to expanding it's defences than simply building its walls up. Part of their inspiration comes, unsurprisingly, from the [[Sarvos#The_Great_Chain|Great Chain of Sarvos]], a mighty series of walls, towers, and barracks, coupled with great iron chains attached to blocks of white granite that can be raised or lowered to provide a serious obstacle to naval forces attempting a shore offensive aimed at capturing [[Sarvos#Cigno|Cigno]]. Part of the defence incorporates a similar set of obstacles, but thanks to the ingenuity of both Urizen and the League there is more to their plan.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sadogua001d.webp|caption=Heralds of [[Sadogua]] have offered advice on ways to weave Night magic around Apulian.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
The [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is a useful [[ritual]] that weaves wards of obfuscation and misdirection through an area of [[Region_qualities#Marsh|marshes]]. While [[Night magic]] is generally of [[War_magic#Night_Magic|limited usefulness]] in a war, the [[Night magic#Resonance|resonance]] of [[Night_magic#Obfuscation|obfuscation]] presents several opportunities to protect against assault. Urizen Seers calculate that it would be possible to permanently tap into some of the rich veins of Night magic that now permeate the city, and focus it across the coast of Apulian.

Keen eyes study the effectiveness of the walls of mist that surround [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#The_Lyceum|the Lyceum]], and the involvement of the eternal [[Sadogua]] in protecting that place. Heralds of the ''Black Sloth'' have been sought out - some Urizen make the long trek to the Marches to put some of those celebrating the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail|wassail]] there on the spot - and it seems that the ''Globbersnotch'' has provided some advice on ways to make the most of the magic in Apulian. While being a little shifty about Night magic and its relationship to the sea (recent [[historical research]] into the nature of eternals associated with the sea might provide some insight here).

Under the proposal, the Palace of Apulian would become the Palace of Mists, capable of calling up confusing fogs to misdirect invading ships and even armies attempting to attack Apulus. It would become a fully effective level two fortification, and in addition, any force attacking the region from the sea - any navy and armies using shore offensive - would suffer a 20% penalty to VPs.

The palace would require 80 wains of white granite and 30 thrones in labour costs, take a year to complete. It would increase the upkeep of the Palace by an additional 10 thrones each season, however, the presence of such a powerful defence protecting the port and the ships using it would boost trade in Spiral. As a result the taxation of the territory would increase by five thrones a season, offsetting half of the increased upkeep.
==Swords Against Darkness==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Requires a statement of principle in support of raising swords against the darkness to pass the League and the Urizen Assembly in the same season.
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the Venture - Swords Against Darkness - available to League, Urizen military and Dawnish military units
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: HotPink;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Venture Type:''' Questing</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' The League, Urizen and Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Duration:''' One year
<tr><td>'''Rewards:'''
* A standard military unit would receive 3 mana crystals and 2 liao
* A military unit that is enchanted or upgraded will receive proportionately more
* A rank 6 or higher military unit (from upgrades or rituals) will receive a Circlet of Fallen Snow as part of the rewards
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Duration becomes open-ended if supported by military units with a total effective strength of 2000 for at least three of the four seasons
* If that happens the taxation of Spiral will increase by 6 thrones and the penalty of military units from the {{Black Plateau}} will be removed
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The League and Urizen national assemblies could use a statement of principle to create a new questing venture in Spiral'''
* '''If enough military units undertake the venture over the next year then it will increase taxation by 6 thrones a season and remove the penalty on Spiral military units'''

One of the challenges in Urizen is that after three decades of war, and the chaos that followed, and the influence of the {{Black Plateau}}, the places between spires and outside the walls of Apulian and [[Spiral#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]], are filled with unknown dangers. Of course there are dangers in many of the less travelled parts of the Empire, but Spiral is particularly afflicted.

[[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#The_Lost|The Lost]] is the common term for those folk whose minds and spirits have been undone by the baleful glare of the plateau. They are not the only threat however - there are still remnants of the [[Druj]] insurgents and [[Grendel]] invaders, small groups of orcs belonging to neither nation hiding out in the wilds. There are also rumours of disciples of [[sword scholar|Sulemaine i Taziel]] hiding in the nooks and crannies of Spiral. These former sword scholars have decisively split with the Empire and represent a real threat to those who remain loyal. All in addition to the usual threats posed by dangerous creatures from the realms, unliving horrors, bandits and outlaws, and allegedly even some rogue ushabti.

Most [[spire|spires]] are sufficiently well-defended to be protect them against incursions and the city of Apulian is far too large to be threatened. As a result, many inhabitants of Spiral have been able to ignore these threats - the League can go about their business in Apulian, while the spires communicate via the heliopticon, and keep to the most well-trod routes when travelling. As a result, thus far, it has not been a pressing problem.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: right;">
[[file:Assembly_League.png]]
[[file:Assembly_Urizen.png]]
</div>
Just because the threat is not urgent does not mean it is not important however. The Urizeni are having to employ extra sentinels to keep their spires safe - and can only travel abroad in large well-protected groups. League merchants moving cargo down the Great Apulian Way are struggling to hire enough guards to protect the caravans. Everywhere you look, there is a need for competent warriors to keep loyal Imperial citizens safe. To many that's just life in Spiral - but to Naomi, it's a subtle but pervasive tax on the Prosperity of everyone who lives here.

After a lot of work persuading some of the wealthier Apulian merchants and key [[arbiter|arbiters]], Naomi is able to persuade them to back an attempt to solve the problem. The solution is simple enough, and for once, Naomi 's idea requires relatively little upfront investment. If the Empire can muster enough military units to directly attack the threats in Spiral, then that the inhabitants of the territory would be able to get on top of the problem. If that could be achieved, it would only need a little support on an ongoing basis to keep the threats under control. Naomi likens it to weeding an overgrown garden - it requires a lot more effort to get the weeds under control than it does to keep it that way.

If her proposal is successful, then it wouldn't just help to make Spiral safer, it would boost Prosperity and taxation in the territory and free up numerous [[sentinel|sentinels]], and [[bravo|bravos]] to find work elsewhere, which would make efforts by military units based in the territory more profitable. The challenge is logistics - getting enough volunteers for the dangerous work won't be easy.

For that to happen, will require a suitably worded Statement of Principle in support of the [[venture]] in both the League and the Urizen Assembly. If both passed in the same season, the proposal would draw enough support from both League and Urizen backers to be viable. That would create a new questing venture, Swords Against Darkness, which would be available to League and Urizen military units (and Dawn since it's more trouble than it's worth to keep their glory hunters away from a quest). With the backing of wealthy patrons, the venture would provide 3 mana crystals and two liao to any standard military unit taking part. A military unit with at least 200 effective strength (from upgrades or rituals) would receive a [[Circlet of Falling Snow]] as part of their rewards. The potential returns aren't great - but of course the Senate could always apply the Guerdon to the expedition.

The venture would last for a year - but if at least 2000 strength of military units undertook the venture on three seasons out of the four, then the venture would remain available for the foreseeable future. If that happened, then the taxation of the territory would permanently increase by 6 thrones a season and the current penalty to military units from the {{Black Plateau}} would be permanently removed.

Given the plan needs the support of enough military units over the coming year, there's a brief discussion of whether it would be easier to just send an army to do it. It wouldn't be a cheap option - armies operating in Spiral suffer badly, but the idea is abandoned when the real cost becomes clear. Sending in an army to attack hundreds or more enemies is almost certain to rouse the {{Black Plateau}} still further. Dozens of small scale operations to hunt down dangerous individuals will be fine - an attempt to have thousands of soldiers comb the mountain side would not...
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=LeagueDrawing.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of the League are adept at finding ingenious solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems.|width=250}}</div>
==Spiral and Zenith==
* '''Building a road to connect southern Spiral with Zenith could bring significant benefits
* '''The special ushabti created at the Crucible of Fate would work well in the Legacy
Since it was recovered from the [[Druj]], the Urizen territory of Zenith has seen significant investment in its prosperity. Between the restoration of the [[Zenith#Proceris|Golden Cascade]] and the establishment of the [[Zenith#Crucible of Fate|Crucible of Fate]], great wealth has accrued to the spires north of Spiral. Some of that wealth has filtered through to the spires of Spiral - via the [[Zenith#Bridge_of_the_Air|Bridge of the Air]] in particular - but Naomi believes that more could be done. She is very interested in fostering more communication between the arcanists and [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] of Zenith and their opposite numbers in the city of Apulian.

At the moment, while the Bridge of the Air provides benefits to the people of Spiral, the ''skyway'' is mostly restricted to the northern and western mountains. However, the success of [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way|Curstag's Way]] presents obvious opportunities. The highway is already proving to be a success, both for its ease of use and the well-protected hostelries along its length. After consulting with [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Lucia, Sheeva, Tressida and Croilus]], Naomi proposes to build on that success - much as the they intimated might be the case when [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|the four first proposed the new road]].

The Grendel have laid in cursory highways between Apulian and the [[Legacy]]; Naomi suggests that it would be possible to expand those roads, and most importantly the stopping points along their length, up through the [[Spiral#The_Passes|Twilight Gate]] into [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]], there to connect with a major artery of the Bridge of the Sky connecting the farms around the Golden Cascade to the Crucible of Fate. Running through Apstrus and Ossuary, the route would give [[Spiral#Screed|Screed]] a wide berth but would provide a useful trade connection not only for Apulian, but for the spires both in Spiral and Zenith, and potentially to the Imperial orcs in Mareave as well.

===Northern Way===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Northern Way'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulian, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 wains of white granite, 30 wains of mithril, 240 Crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Master of Rings commissions the road 6 wains of white granite will be provided by League citizens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Urizen Assembly supports the road with a suitably worded statement of principle, 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Raises the level of investment in Zenith by one providing 36 rings for each business in the territory
* Removes the penalty to businesses in Spiral from the {{Black Plateau}}
* Enables the Crucible of Fate to boost the output of the Legacy and upgrade personal resources
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A great work investing in roads between Apulian and Zenith would boost businesses in Zenith'''
* '''It would also remove the penalty imposed on businesses by the {{Black Plateau}}'''
Naomi isn't worried about what the road is called, apart from to note with amusement that the chances it will be called the ''Northern Calumo-Sheeva-Nightshadow Highway'' are vanishingly low. Whoever commissions it will determine how it is referred to in official documents. It builds on the success of Curstag's Way, providing not only a safe and reliable route through the lowlands but plenty of specifically established stopping places for caravans and travellers protected by the power of [[Spiral#The_Block|the block]].

The costs will be greater than those associated with Curstag's Way, as it must pass through much more difficult terrain. The immediate benefits will accrue not in Spiral, but in Zenith. Easing trade between Urizen and the League allows the benefits of cargos brought into Apulian to be felt in Zenith, and creates new markets for Urizen goods - especially books and magic items. This would represent another level of investment in Zenith, over and above that provided by the Bridge of the Sky.

Securing a second - and arguably more lucrative - trade route through Spiral to Apulian would also provide significant benefits to businesses and farms in the territory. The impact of the {{Black Plateau}} is particularly acute on those moving cargoes overland through the territory. With regular stopping places, and a road to speed travel, this impact would be almost entirely mitigated. The penalty to businesses from the plateau would be cancelled as long as the roads were operable.

The project is expensive, but the costs could be cut slightly if the project has the clear backing of prominent citizens of Urizen and the League. If the Master of Rings commissions the road, 6 wains of white granite will be provided by enthusiastic League citizens. If the Urizen Assembly passes a suitably worded statement of principle in support of the new road then 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Urizen.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of Urizen have rebuilt Zenith in the wake of the [[Druj]] occupation. Their mastery of the form and function of the ''ushabti'' goes from strength to strength.|width=250}}</div>
===Dark Depths===
* '''Completing the Northern Way could enable the Architect of the Crucible to employ members of League artisan guilds'''
* '''Employing more artisans would enable the Architect to boost production of the legacy'''
* '''It would also restore and extend the ability to upgrade personal resources'''

The road would obviously run past the Legacy; while the raw mithril here shelters the miners from the dank miasma of the plateau while they are working it still requires the Senate to pay a significant dividend to attract those workers to the location. With an easy route between Zenith and Spiral, however, another opportunity presents itself.

At the moment, the [[Architect of the Crucible]] is providing [[Architect_of_the_Crucible#Miracle_And_Wonder|specialist ushabti]] to the [[Brilliant Star]] in Redoubt. These ushabti are designed to operate in the deadly light that infuses the mines, a legacy of [[Cold Sun]]. Rather than support the Brilliant Star, the Architect of the Crucible, could instead create a workforce of ushabti infused with weirwood and mithril could to help operate the Legacy. That would boost the output of the Legacy by three wains of mithril at the cost, but production at the Star would drop by the same amount.

What is really needed is a way to expand the output of the Crucible of Fate. As is common with Urizeni structures, the facility is large and spacious; the problem is getting enough skilled artisans to work the forges. Urizen has never been a very populous nation, and there simply aren't enough artisans available to make it worthwhile running the forges night and day.

However there are more than enough League artisans in the various guilds that have moved to Apulian who are eagerly looking for work. If the Architect of the Crucible invited them to travel to the Crucible of Fate, then they could quickly learn how to make ushabti and once they had mastered the arts it would significantly improve the Architect's capacity to create ushabti.

If the Northern Way is completed, then at any time the Architect of the Crucible could email {{plot}} and indicate that they are overseeing the creation of ushabti for the Legacy rather than the Brilliant Star. That would reduce the output of the Star by 3 wains and increase the output of the Legacy by 3 wains.

Alternatively the Architect could email {{plot}} to indicate that they are inviting League artisans to come to the Crucible to learn how to make ushabti. With the benefit of so many additional artisans, the output of the Crucible would double - the Architect could support the Legacy and the Brilliant Star, increasing the output of both bourse resources.

In addition, the extra workforce would restore the ability of the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade personal resources. With Spiral back in Imperial control and League magicians receiving training in the creation, use and maintenance of ushabti, it would be possible for the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade League or Urizen personal resources in Spiral.

Once each season during [[downtime]], the Architect of the Crucible could select a single Urizen or League character with a mine, forest, herb garden, farm, or business in [[Morrow]], [[Redoubt]], [[Spiral]] or [[Zenith]], and commission the artisans at the Crucible to create bespoke ushabti for them. This would upgrade their personal resource by one level at a cost of three thrones for each level it is being upgraded to (so to upgrade a standard resource costs six thrones, while a level three resource would require twelve thrones to upgrade to level four). This is in place of all other costs - no [[mithril]], [[white granite]], or [[weirwood]] is required.

Of course the Architect of the Crucible might not want to share the secrets of ushabti with members of the League. That would be a decision that was down to them. But in either case, nothing could happen until the proposed Northern Way was completed.

==The Dark Mesa==
* '''The opportunity to build a fortification designed to enclose the {{Black Plateau}} is still viable'''
* '''The proposal for Oblivion's Edge would mitigate the impact of fighting in the territory for a season'''
* '''As long as the Block remains in tact it would also reduce the impact of the Plateau on life in inhabited areas of Spiral'''
* '''This proposal completely replaces the previous details for the creation of Oblivion's Edge'''

<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Oblivion's Edge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' The {{Black Plateau}}, Screed, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 white granite, 20 mithril and 300 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 4 seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 10 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a level one fortification in Screed
* Removes the threat from naifs in the territory
* Would help to defend against any direct attack on the {{Black Plateau}}
* Provides spartan accommodation for the Oblivion Sentinel
* Would prevent the {{Black Plateau}} being roused by a single season of fighting in the territory
* Raises taxation by 4 thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* If the Imperial Senate build the fortification and change the position to a League and Urizeni national appointment then the title would gain donations worth 5 crystal fire each year and 20 crowns per season
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
As part of their work to assess the threats present in Spiral and suggest ways to counter them, members of the [[Vigilance]] Assembly suggested the [[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#Oblivion's_Edge|construction of a fortification to enclose the {{Black Plateau}}]]. Their goal was to wall off access to the area, to prevent people blindly wandering into the most dangerous part of the territory, but also to prevent any opportunity for malicious actors - such as the Druj or the Grendel - from deliberately rousing it to violence by directly attacking it, as [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_(Spiral)|the Iron Helms did so dramatically five years ago]].

Of most interest to Naomi is the idea that the fortification might include mithril laced into the walls to try and contain some of the fell energies seeping out of the mesa. She has been charged with finding ways to improve the Prosperity of Spiral, but one of the first tenets of the Virtue enjoins people to "enjoy the fruits of your labour". It is harder than it should be to enjoy life in Spiral with the fearful shadow of the {{Black Plateau}} hanging over the territory. The more that can be done to contain it - the better people's lives will be.

Thus she is interested in the proposal to fortify Screed, because of the potential it offers to contain some of the fell energies leaching from the heights. The effects are small, but combined with the protections provided by [[Spiral#The_Block|the Block]] it would make life in Apulian and the lofty spires in the mountains much more liveable. At least it will for as long as the great mithril structure remains in good working order, which should be fine provided relations with the Cinion rebels who control the Block remain stable.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ylenwe001.webp|caption=[[Ylenwe]], the Dove of the Morning, offers some protection from the malign influence that fills the air in Spiral.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
Thus, Naomi has spent time revising the original proposals to bring them up to date with the latest techniques. The fortification would not be cheap - it would require 80 wains of white granite and 20 mithril and take a year to build, but now that the Empire has given [[Ylenwe]] amity, Zie is prepared to shield the workers from the Dark Eye's baleful glare so the labour costs would be no higher than normal

The fortification would offer a number of benefits; it turns out the area is not as defensible as first assumed, but the bastion would make the region much harder to take (the region would require 20VPs to capture) and provide a base for a garrison to patrol Urizen. That would be enough to dissuade the Druj or the Grendel staging a lightning raid on the {{Black Plateau}} to try and trigger it.

The mithril spines incorporated into the structure would slow the flow of energy to and from the Plateau, That wouldn't completely remove the risks involved in fighting in the territory, it wouldn't even reduce the losses inflicted on armies, but it would mean that the plateau would not be triggered by a single season of campaigning in the territory - and it would mean there might be an [[opportunity]] to prevent an eruption if the fighting went on longer than a season. Far from ideal maybe, but still a lot safer than the current situation.

When the fortification was first put forward, there was a suggestion that building it would help to reassure League and Urizen citizens in Spiral that the Empire was not ignoring the dangers posed by the {{Black Plateau}}. Interest in the work of the [[Oblivion Sentinel]] has only grown since then and after some effort Naomi is able to convince various League guilds to offer 20 crowns in support of the position - to match the five crystal fire provided by the Deathless Caves - but on the proviso that the title becomes a League and Urizeni national appointment - (like the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]]). It's not these League businesses particularly want to control the title, but they want to know their senators have a say in who holds the position.

The real gains though are the improvements in quality of life for the folks living Apulian as well as the spires, citadels and temples that dot the mountains. Most of these structures are now protected by mithril filigree that shields people from the worst of the {{Black Plateau}} while they are indoors. Crucially as the density of buildings in Apulian continues to rise, people have noticed that some of the narrower streets are now benefitting in the same way.

If the fortification were built - then it wouldn't just protect Screed, it would ameliorate the impacts of the {{Black Plateau}} on anyone who is protected by the novel architectural techniques developed by Urizeni magicians. It would do nothing for the wilderness - that would remain a treacherous and dangerous landscape, one only the hardy or the foolhardy might contemplate - there is [[Damming_the_Doubt#The_Aid_of_the_Dove|a complimentary offer from Ylenwe]] that ''might'' be able help with that problem. But the fortification would mean that most citizens living in Spiral could go about their business without having to endure the constant pressure the Plateau creates while they were indoors.

That would be invaluable. Naomi calculates that taxation from the territory would rise by four thrones a season, but the real benefits would be to the everyday life of the people who live in Spiral. Their capacity to enjoy the fruits of their labours would be much improved.

==Further Reading==
* [[Spiral]]
* [[Ylenwe]]

* [[The moth for the star]] - 387YE Autumn wind of fortune, relating to dramaturgical eccentricities in Spiral
* [[Daybreak in Spiral]] - 387YE Summer wind of fortune, discussing events in Spiral as a whole
* [[Nightfall in Apulian]]- 387YE Summer wind of fortune discussing events in the city of Apulian
* [[Damming the Doubt]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune discussing options and concerns related to Solen's Doubt
* [[Our eyes in Spiral]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune summarising the situation in Spiral
* [[Million_miles_of_water#The_Way_Less_Taken|Million miles of water]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune introducing the opportunity to flood the Doubt

My friends are my estate

2026-02-27T21:39:07Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Dark Depths */ Giving mithril & white granite some space

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]

<ic>Arius didn't roll their eyes, but focused on making last minute adjustments to the plans laid out across the table. Their appointment with the prognosticator was in barely an hour and the architect still wasn't entirely happy with some of the details. Also, the Leaguers were arguing again, something which had become a theme every time they came together to discuss the plan.

"I'm sorry," said Karolin, trying to keep her patience. "But I do not see why this proposal requires a big statue in the middle of it. How does that promote the shipwright's arts exactly?"

Rafe shook his head, grin fixed, hands dancing as he talked as usual. "No, see, it makes perfect sense."

"But it's the ''mountebank''. They may be dressed up as the sailor, but in many ways that makes things worse given some of the resonances."

"Oh for sure," agreed Rafe in a way that made it clear he did not, in fact, agree with his colleague. "But also, think about it. As a mascot for Apulian it's ideal! Let me explain!"

"I doubt we can stop you," interjected Hyame d'Apulian. The orc was leant back in his chair, boots on the table, dividing his time between the conversation and a large box of chocolate-covered cherries balanced on his stomach. Rafe ignored him.

"Everyone talks about Apulian as the fifth city of the League," explained Rafe. "We'll always be the newest city, until the nation incorporates somewhere else, and even then we'll be listed ''after'' the other four. Tassato, Temeschwar, Sarvos, Holberg. They all have centuries of history."

"Apulian has centuries of history," interrupted Arius. The Urizen architect didn't look up from the plans scattered across the table between them. They leant forward as they spoke and made a slight adjustment to one of the diagrams. "Indeed, it could be argued that the city has ''more'' history than some of the League given my people were here before yours arrived on these shores."

"I don't disagree," said Rafe. "But also no. That was, without offence, Urizen history and that doesn't entirely count. You see?"

"I'm not sure I do..." began Arius, but Rafe continued speaking as if they had not spoken. The robed merrow closed their eyes momentarily, drawing their poise around them like a cloak, and continued tweaking the plans. Karolin noted their lips were quite thin, however, and suspected they were not used to being talked over.

"For hundreds of years it was a glorified town - no offence Arius - and then it was Grendel - and now it's League and I'm sorry but that counts for a great deal. But we're the newest child on the street, here. We've not really claimed our place. We're "the place the orcs came from" - no offence Hyame - and the "city below" where all the night magicians are dicking about - no offence Karolin - and that's about all the rest of the League thinks of us. The Mountebank is ''exactly'' the iconic presence we need. The upstart, the clever rascal, the spirit of transformation and... and..."

"Unleashed primal forces and destruction?" said Hyame, even more amused. The League orc dropped his feet from the table and leant forward. "Disguise and concealment? Dangerous emotions? Or given you've chosen the Sailor, a short-lived period of lavish entertainment that leaves you with a sword with no hilt? A blowhard and a braggart?"

Rafe coloured a little, but soldiered on.

"Look, I'm just saying. This is only part of it. I hear people saying we can't compete with Sarvos, or Holberg. We were barely in the great competition for paragons' sake! But I say where's your ''ambition''? What are we even ''here'' for if we ''don't'' compete with the other cities? If we don't nail our sails to the mast and show them that we are ''here'' and we are ''League''!"

"And a statue of the Sailor says all that does it?" Karolin asked quietly. Rafe fell silent, and huffed a great sigh.

"Well, only a bit. Unless... unless..." His eyes flared with light again, and he became animated again. "Unless we build the biggest goddam statue of the Sailor the world has ever seen and stick two fingers up to il Volpe and Sarvos! Then we'd ''really'' be sending a message to the rest of the League that we're coming after their crowns!"

As he'd spoken, Rafe had jumped up onto the table and posed dramatically, one foot in a plate of rice and the other on the plans for the new boatyard, two fingers raised in a traditional gesture of defiance. Hyame applauded, only slightly sarcastically. Karolin shook her head, face clouded with doubt.

Arius didn't roll their eyes, and held their peace, and not for the first time wondered why the League was like this, and why they were so drawn to their often misplaced enthusiasms. Not for the first time they promised themselves that when ''this'' project was done they would head back up into the mountains for a little peace and quiet... knowing as they did so they were fooling nobody least of all themselves.</ic>

<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorSpiral.jpg|caption='''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', Senator for Spiral|align=left|width=350}}</div>
==Overview==
[[Spiral]], for centuries [[Urizen]] heartland, now part of [[the League]]. The transition has not been entirely trouble-free, but [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Treaty_with_Urizen_of_the_Silver_Flame|the treaty with the Silver Flame]], the non-Imperial Urizen has tamped down the risk of open conflict. Members of the Synod have been attempting to heal the rift, with more positive sentiments emerging from both sides. The League Assembly endorsed [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_71|Isaia Pavone di Sarvos' statement of principle]] calling for people to ''"enjoy the fruits of both nations’ labour together, now and in years to come"'' with a greater majority. If the Urizen Assembly were a little less enthusiastic about [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_163|Halkyon of the Myriad Stream's complimentary statement]] that is perhaps understandable given the circumstances.

Where the two sides have managed to cooperate, the results have been impressive. Projects like [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]] and [[Damming the Doubt]] demonstrate what can be achieved for both nations when they work together. During the Autumn Equinox, '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''' the [[Senator]] for Spiral, proposed a timely [[appraisal]] to build on these successes by looking "for ways to draw on the best of League innovation and Urizen wisdom to bolster Spiral's prosperity." The Senate agreed, and as requested [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] was dispatched to explore [[opportunity|opportunities]] in the south-eastern Empire.

As is ever the case in Spiral, the work is made more difficult by the omnipresent yoke of the {{Black Plateau}}. The malignant force that squats at the centre of the [[territory]] exacerbates every bad feeling, every doubt, and if not checked seeps into the spirit of anyone who spends time in the territory. Urizen ingenuity in the form of [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] has helped blunt its effects, at least in the remaining [[spire|spires]] and in the settlements of the League, but the rocky land between settlements remains difficult and dangerous.

Fleets, businesses, military units and farms are all suffering particularly badly from the effects of the {{Black Plateau}}. There's precious little point in trying to help farms, since there are so few of them, but it is clear that one of the simplest ways to boost the Prosperity of Spiral might be to find an approach that could mitigate the problems that the other resources are suffering.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBLeague.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
==Situation in Spiral==
* '''Relations between the League citizens, and remaining Urizen citizens, are becoming easier
Some have compared the city of Apulian with [[Temeschwar]] - a League city with a similar past in that it combines [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Wisdom]] with League [[Ambition]]. While the Plateau remains a problem, recent developments have gone some way towards helping bolster the prosperity of Spiral. The creation of the [[Road_out_of_nowhere#Southern_Skyways|Bridge of the Air]] has seen several smaller "skyways" link isolated spires and settlements, ease passage through more difficult areas, and greatly improve trade between and through the mountains. The completion of [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]], the grand highway that runs through southern Spiral and links [[Mareave]] to the rest of the Empire, has likewise done wonders for the wealth of the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] in particular.

Naomi is the ideal choice to try to bring League and Urizen minds together to work on the problem. She always focuses on finding the most diplomatic possible solution to the problems she is dispatched to examine. She is known to be adroit at identifying options that are best placed to satisfy the concerns of the people affected though she tends to concentrate on the best possible solution to a problem rather than the cheapest or the most efficient.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBUrizen.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
The timing is also apposite - work on the [[Construct_Barossa_University_of_Dramaturgical_Arts|new College of the Dramaturgical Arts]] is underway, but the high costs involved have meant progress is slow. The College should prove a valuable boon for the territory, especially for those interested in the arts of [[Dramaturgy]], provided some way can be found to fund the development.

There are several areas, then, that Naomi has explored. The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies just to the south of Spiral and has recently become a "protectorate" of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - a people known for their love of trade and enthusiasm for wealth who are already invested in the Empire. The city of Apulian is expanding and growing in leaps and bounds, clearly benefitting from the fusion of Urizeni and League magical lore. The spires of the highlands are rich in magical understanding, crystal mana, and magical metals.

==Night Sailing==
* '''Building a specialised dock in Apulian would remove the penalties suffered by Imperial fleets in Spiral'''
* '''It would also provide benefits to Spiral fleets engaged in espionage, scouting, and smuggling'''
* '''It could serve as a refuge for an Imperial navy'''
* '''It would bring more maritime trade into Apulian and increase taxation by 2 thrones a season'''

The city of Apulian is a bustling port with an eclectic feel. It grew slowly over the years, but the infusion of settlers, first the Grendel and then the League have ushered in two major waves of expansion. Now the docks are extensive, but syncretised, merging many different styles of architecture, Imperial and otherwise. Trade has grown with it, with more ships from foreign ports as well as vessels from Highguard and the Brass Coast seen entering the harbour.

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Obsidian Shipyard'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 35 wains of weirwood, 25 wains of mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver, 180 crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets taking a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sarcophan port
* Lowers the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sumaah or Commonwealth port
* Provides [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] to Imperial navies
* Increases taxation by two thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Increasing the costs to 85 weirwood, 50 mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver and 405 crowns would increase the ''benefits'' to fleets to two ranks rather than one and increase the taxation by five thrones a season</td></tr>
</td></tr>
</table></div>

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''</big>Ambitious Statuary</big>'''<p>While the statue of the Sailor is integrated into the Obsidian Shipyards, it is not a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos. On the other hand, Ambition is a virtue and there's no reason it ''couldn't'' be a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos... All it would need is a little vision, some engineering know-how to scale it up a little, and a large amount of white granite.</p>

Whoever commissions the Obsidian Shipwrights could choose to increase the costs by 50 white granite, 25 mithril, and 225 crowns, and add an extra six months to the construction. The Sailor would then be a massive figure, gazing indulgently down on the docks and towering over the city of Apulian. Another wonder of the world! This would increase the level of investment in Spiral's fleets by another rank, fleets engaged in trade with Sarcophan or [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] actions would gain a total of two ranks. It would also increase the taxation by five thrones rather than two and further cement Apulian as a rival to Sarvos, as well as a centre of dramaturgical excellence.

One of the Urizen dramaturgists, incidentally, points out that whether a giant statue is built or not is besides the point because they argue that instead of the Sailor, the best choice for a statue on the Obsidian Shipwrights is [[the Witch]] who represents mysteries, common sense, and [[Prosperity]]. There's no reason that whoever commissions the construction couldn't specify that the statue should be of the Witch instead of the Sailor - either would work fine (other personae would be too dissonant with obfuscation to complement the work).</box></div>
The looming presence of {{Black Plateau}} remains the biggest impediment to further expansion of the trade. Until recently, moving goods and passengers across the Bay of Catazar by sail was preferable to travel under the Plateau's sinister gaze. The creation of Curstag's Way, complete with rest stops infused with mithril, made it easier to move goods by land in the territory. Could a similar solution benefit the Apulian docks?

While [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] protects any structure properly infused with [[mithril]], that's little comfort to ship's crews. Among some of the first people to arrange an appointment with Naomi when she arrived in Apulian were a loose association of ship owners and merchant traders supported by members of the Purple Sail ''sodality''. While most were League citizens, there were a handful of Urizen interests represented as well as some [[Sarcophan Delves|Sarcophan]] and a merchant from [[Mareave#Beoaridh|Beoraidh]]. All were keen to find a way to ameliorate the effects of the Plateau on shipping.

Much discussion between various experts ensues, but in the end it is the seagoing expertise of Danilo di Tassato, a former gondolier and reckoner, and an Urizeni [[seer]], Procopius of the Shadow Moon that provides the answer. Between them they have developed a way to infuse [[mithril]] and [[weltsilver]] into the hulls and sails of ships to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}} by wrapping the vessel in whispers of shadow pulled from the Night realm. According to Procopius, it works because the enchantments woven into the ship make it harder for the {{Black Plateau}} to "see" the vessel, which has some rather disturbing implications. Regardless of how the magic works, a night-time trip across the bay in Danilo's converted [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumboat Sarcophan Bumboat] is enough to prove to Naomi and her team that the approach is undeniably effective.

The demonstration draws interest from many, including the Sarcophan ''College of Silent Voices'' and the League orcs of the [[Pebbles_drawn_from_a_heap#The_Circle_of_Black_Sand|Circle of Black Sand]]. Working together produces an ambitious proposal that might see Apulian eventually rival [[Sarvos]] as a seat of trade. The Obsidian Shipwrights would be an area of the docks dedicated both to building trading vessels, and refitting existing vessels with mithril traceries to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}}. A centrepiece of the construction would be a large mithril inlaid statue of the [[The_Mountebank#The_Sailor|Sailor]]. This raises a few eyebrows - the Sailor is a specific version of [[the Mountebank]] in [[dramaturgy]] associated with suspicious gifts, good times, and trouble. Yet they are also an excellent fit for magic that hides folk from unfriendly eyes. It would in no way rival the [[Sarvos#The_Colossus_of_Sarvos|Colossus of Sarvos]]... but it might send a message about the Ambitions of the people of Apulian.

The shipyards would remove the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}. However, the benefits go further than that. The Night magic would suffuse fleets based in the territory, allowing them to move quickly and quietly, making them excellent spies and smugglers. Every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank bonus whenever they undertake a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action. Such vessels would also be well received in the Sarcophan Delves, providing the same bonus to any [[Fleet#Trading|trading]] action with the Delves - both the [[Foreign_ports#Sarcophan|city itself]], the [[Foreign ports#Betovering|Betovering docks]] but also the less accessible, satellite ports allowing improved access to the medicines of ''Moeraskriden'' or the contraband of ''Schedalhaven''.

Sadly the approach is not completely without drawbacks - the obfuscation provided by the lingering Night magics would inevitably cause consternation in Sumaash and Commonwealth ports. Both nations are sticklers for the rule of law, with little time for smugglers. The suspicion that such a vessel would be sure to arouse means every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank penalty whenever they undertake any trading action with a port controlled by either nation.

This focus on swift, subtle vessels with low draughts means the Shipwrights would be unsuitable for creating an [[Imperial navy]]. Built in harmony with the magics coursing through Apulian, however, the Obsidian Shipwrights would provide a safe haven for warships - it would provide the [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] benefit to a navy that docked in Apulian, where the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] provided further protection.

On which subject...

==Mellow Mists==
<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><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Palace of Mists'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification Upgrade</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 wains of white granite, 240 crowns, a year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Improves the fortification at Apulian to rank two
* Forces attacking the region from the sea (such as [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive|shore offensive]] or the equivalent) suffer a 20% penalty to VPs
* Improves taxation by 5 thrones a season
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Naomi's proposal would upgrade the fortification at Apulian to rank two'''
* '''Forces using shore offensive or equivalent orders would suffer a twenty percent penalty to VPs'''
* '''Bolstering the defences would increase taxation by five thrones a season, offsetting some of the increased upkeep'''
The sea is the lifeblood of Apulian, but it brings with it additional threats. The [[Grendel]] have demonstrated their ruthless capacity to seize Imperial ports with their recent [[To ruin|attack on Elos]]. The [[Children of Wrecks]] have been [[Red_skies|defeated but not destroyed]]. The [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] warships that [[A beacon of smoke|burnt Siroc]] are still out there. Apulian is protected by the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] but there is a limit to what it can achieve, especially against a maritime threat.

League engineers and Urizen architects have worked together to address the problem that is the flip-side of a lot of Apulian's prosperity. Their proposal is to build on the foundation laid by Salt Lord Kaliact. The beautiful, well-fortified palace takes pride of place near the docks but there is more to expanding it's defences than simply building its walls up. Part of their inspiration comes, unsurprisingly, from the [[Sarvos#The_Great_Chain|Great Chain of Sarvos]], a mighty series of walls, towers, and barracks, coupled with great iron chains attached to blocks of white granite that can be raised or lowered to provide a serious obstacle to naval forces attempting a shore offensive aimed at capturing [[Sarvos#Cigno|Cigno]]. Part of the defence incorporates a similar set of obstacles, but thanks to the ingenuity of both Urizen and the League there is more to their plan.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sadogua001d.webp|caption=Heralds of [[Sadogua]] have offered advice on ways to weave Night magic around Apulian.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
The [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is a useful [[ritual]] that weaves wards of obfuscation and misdirection through an area of [[Region_qualities#Marsh|marshes]]. While [[Night magic]] is generally of [[War_magic#Night_Magic|limited usefulness]] in a war, the [[Night magic#Resonance|resonance]] of [[Night_magic#Obfuscation|obfuscation]] presents several opportunities to protect against assault. Urizen Seers calculate that it would be possible to permanently tap into some of the rich veins of Night magic that now permeate the city, and focus it across the coast of Apulian.

Keen eyes study the effectiveness of the walls of mist that surround [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#The_Lyceum|the Lyceum]], and the involvement of the eternal [[Sadogua]] in protecting that place. Heralds of the ''Black Sloth'' have been sought out - some Urizen make the long trek to the Marches to put some of those celebrating the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail|wassail]] there on the spot - and it seems that the ''Globbersnotch'' has provided some advice on ways to make the most of the magic in Apulian. While being a little shifty about Night magic and its relationship to the sea (recent [[historical research]] into the nature of eternals associated with the sea might provide some insight here).

Under the proposal, the Palace of Apulian would become the Palace of Mists, capable of calling up confusing fogs to misdirect invading ships and even armies attempting to attack Apulus. It would become a fully effective level two fortification, and in addition, any force attacking the region from the sea - any navy and armies using shore offensive - would suffer a 20% penalty to VPs.

The palace would require 80 wains of white granite and 30 thrones in labour costs, take a year to complete. It would increase the upkeep of the Palace by an additional 10 thrones each season, however, the presence of such a powerful defence protecting the port and the ships using it would boost trade in Spiral. As a result the taxation of the territory would increase by five thrones a season, offsetting half of the increased upkeep.
==Swords Against Darkness==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Requires a statement of principle in support of raising swords against the darkness to pass the League and the Urizen Assembly in the same season.
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the Venture - Swords Against Darkness - available to League, Urizen military and Dawnish military units
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: HotPink;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Venture Type:''' Questing</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' The League, Urizen and Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Duration:''' One year
<tr><td>'''Rewards:'''
* A standard military unit would receive 3 mana crystals and 2 liao
* A military unit that is enchanted or upgraded will receive proportionately more
* A rank 6 or higher military unit (from upgrades or rituals) will receive a Circlet of Fallen Snow as part of the rewards
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Duration becomes open-ended if supported by military units with a total effective strength of 2000 for at least three of the four seasons
* If that happens the taxation of Spiral will increase by 6 thrones and the penalty of military units from the {{Black Plateau}} will be removed
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The League and Urizen national assemblies could use a statement of principle to create a new questing venture in Spiral'''
* '''If enough military units undertake the venture over the next year then it will increase taxation by 6 thrones a season and remove the penalty on Spiral military units'''

One of the challenges in Urizen is that after three decades of war, and the chaos that followed, and the influence of the {{Black Plateau}}, the places between spires and outside the walls of Apulian and [[Spiral#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]], are filled with unknown dangers. Of course there are dangers in many of the less travelled parts of the Empire, but Spiral is particularly afflicted.

[[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#The_Lost|The Lost]] is the common term for those folk whose minds and spirits have been undone by the baleful glare of the plateau. They are not the only threat however - there are still remnants of the [[Druj]] insurgents and [[Grendel]] invaders, small groups of orcs belonging to neither nation hiding out in the wilds. There are also rumours of disciples of [[sword scholar|Sulemaine i Taziel]] hiding in the nooks and crannies of Spiral. These former sword scholars have decisively split with the Empire and represent a real threat to those who remain loyal. All in addition to the usual threats posed by dangerous creatures from the realms, unliving horrors, bandits and outlaws, and allegedly even some rogue ushabti.

Most [[spire|spires]] are sufficiently well-defended to be protect them against incursions and the city of Apulian is far too large to be threatened. As a result, many inhabitants of Spiral have been able to ignore these threats - the League can go about their business in Apulian, while the spires communicate via the heliopticon, and keep to the most well-trod routes when travelling. As a result, thus far, it has not been a pressing problem.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: right;">
[[file:Assembly_League.png]]
[[file:Assembly_Urizen.png]]
</div>
Just because the threat is not urgent does not mean it is not important however. The Urizeni are having to employ extra sentinels to keep their spires safe - and can only travel abroad in large well-protected groups. League merchants moving cargo down the Great Apulian Way are struggling to hire enough guards to protect the caravans. Everywhere you look, there is a need for competent warriors to keep loyal Imperial citizens safe. To many that's just life in Spiral - but to Naomi, it's a subtle but pervasive tax on the Prosperity of everyone who lives here.

After a lot of work persuading some of the wealthier Apulian merchants and key [[arbiter|arbiters]], Naomi is able to persuade them to back an attempt to solve the problem. The solution is simple enough, and for once, Naomi 's idea requires relatively little upfront investment. If the Empire can muster enough military units to directly attack the threats in Spiral, then that the inhabitants of the territory would be able to get on top of the problem. If that could be achieved, it would only need a little support on an ongoing basis to keep the threats under control. Naomi likens it to weeding an overgrown garden - it requires a lot more effort to get the weeds under control than it does to keep it that way.

If her proposal is successful, then it wouldn't just help to make Spiral safer, it would boost Prosperity and taxation in the territory and free up numerous [[sentinel|sentinels]], and [[bravo|bravos]] to find work elsewhere, which would make efforts by military units based in the territory more profitable. The challenge is logistics - getting enough volunteers for the dangerous work won't be easy.

For that to happen, will require a suitably worded Statement of Principle in support of the [[venture]] in both the League and the Urizen Assembly. If both passed in the same season, the proposal would draw enough support from both League and Urizen backers to be viable. That would create a new questing venture, Swords Against Darkness, which would be available to League and Urizen military units (and Dawn since it's more trouble than it's worth to keep their glory hunters away from a quest). With the backing of wealthy patrons, the venture would provide 3 mana crystals and two liao to any standard military unit taking part. A military unit with at least 200 effective strength (from upgrades or rituals) would receive a [[Circlet of Falling Snow]] as part of their rewards. The potential returns aren't great - but of course the Senate could always apply the Guerdon to the expedition.

The venture would last for a year - but if at least 2000 strength of military units undertook the venture on three seasons out of the four, then the venture would remain available for the foreseeable future. If that happened, then the taxation of the territory would permanently increase by 6 thrones a season and the current penalty to military units from the {{Black Plateau}} would be permanently removed.

Given the plan needs the support of enough military units over the coming year, there's a brief discussion of whether it would be easier to just send an army to do it. It wouldn't be a cheap option - armies operating in Spiral suffer badly, but the idea is abandoned when the real cost becomes clear. Sending in an army to attack hundreds or more enemies is almost certain to rouse the {{Black Plateau}} still further. Dozens of small scale operations to hunt down dangerous individuals will be fine - an attempt to have thousands of soldiers comb the mountain side would not...
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=LeagueDrawing.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of the League are adept at finding ingenious solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems.|width=250}}</div>
==Spiral and Zenith==
* '''Building a road to connect southern Spiral with Zenith could bring significant benefits
* '''The special ushabti created at the Crucible of Fate would work well in the Legacy
Since it was recovered from the [[Druj]], the Urizen territory of Zenith has seen significant investment in its prosperity. Between the restoration of the [[Zenith#Proceris|Golden Cascade]] and the establishment of the [[Zenith#Crucible of Fate|Crucible of Fate]], great wealth has accrued to the spires north of Spiral. Some of that wealth has filtered through to the spires of Spiral - via the [[Zenith#Bridge_of_the_Air|Bridge of the Air]] in particular - but Naomi believes that more could be done. She is very interested in fostering more communication between the arcanists and [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] of Zenith and their opposite numbers in the city of Apulian.

At the moment, while the Bridge of the Air provides benefits to the people of Spiral, the ''skyway'' is mostly restricted to the northern and western mountains. However, the success of [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way|Curstag's Way]] presents obvious opportunities. The highway is already proving to be a success, both for its ease of use and the well-protected hostelries along its length. After consulting with [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Lucia, Sheeva, Tressida and Croilus]], Naomi proposes to build on that success - much as the they intimated might be the case when [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|the four first proposed the new road]].

The Grendel have laid in cursory highways between Apulian and the [[Legacy]]; Naomi suggests that it would be possible to expand those roads, and most importantly the stopping points along their length, up through the [[Spiral#The_Passes|Twilight Gate]] into [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]], there to connect with a major artery of the Bridge of the Sky connecting the farms around the Golden Cascade to the Crucible of Fate. Running through Apstrus and Ossuary, the route would give [[Spiral#Screed|Screed]] a wide berth but would provide a useful trade connection not only for Apulian, but for the spires both in Spiral and Zenith, and potentially to the Imperial orcs in Mareave as well.

===Northern Way===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Northern Way'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulian, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 wains of white granite, 30 wains of mithril, 240 Crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Master of Rings commissions the road 6 wains of white granite will be provided by League citizens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Urizen Assembly supports the road with a suitably worded statement of principle, 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Raises the level of investment in Zenith by one providing 36 rings for each business in the territory
* Removes the penalty to businesses in Spiral from the {{Black Plateau}}
* Enables the Crucible of Fate to boost the output of the Legacy and upgrade personal resources
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A great work investing in roads between Apulian and Zenith would boost businesses in Zenith'''
* '''It would also remove the penalty imposed on businesses by the {{Black Plateau}}'''
Naomi isn't worried about what the road is called, apart from to note with amusement that the chances it will be called the ''Northern Calumo-Sheeva-Nightshadow Highway'' are vanishingly low. Whoever commissions it will determine how it is referred to in official documents. It builds on the success of Curstag's Way, providing not only a safe and reliable route through the lowlands but plenty of specifically established stopping places for caravans and travellers protected by the power of [[Spiral#The_Block|the block]].

The costs will be greater than those associated with Curstag's Way, as it must pass through much more difficult terrain. The immediate benefits will accrue not in Spiral, but in Zenith. Easing trade between Urizen and the League allows the benefits of cargos brought into Apulian to be felt in Zenith, and creates new markets for Urizen goods - especially books and magic items. This would represent another level of investment in Zenith, over and above that provided by the Bridge of the Sky.

Securing a second - and arguably more lucrative - trade route through Spiral to Apulian would also provide significant benefits to businesses and farms in the territory. The impact of the {{Black Plateau}} is particularly acute on those moving cargoes overland through the territory. With regular stopping places, and a road to speed travel, this impact would be almost entirely mitigated. The penalty to businesses from the plateau would be cancelled as long as the roads were operable.

The project is expensive, but the costs could be cut slightly if the project has the clear backing of prominent citizens of Urizen and the League. If the Master of Rings commissions the road, 6 wains of white granite will be provided by enthusiastic League citizens. If the Urizen Assembly passes a suitably worded statement of principle in support of the new road then 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Urizen.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of Urizen have rebuilt Zenith in the wake of the [[Druj]] occupation. Their mastery of the form and function of the ''ushabti'' goes from strength to strength.|width=250}}</div>
===Dark Depths===
* '''Completing the Northern Way could enable the Architect of the Crucible to employ members of League artisan guilds'''
* '''Employing more artisans would enable the Architect to boost production of the legacy'''
* '''It would also restore and extend the ability to upgrade personal resources'''

The road would obviously run past the Legacy; while the raw mithril here shelters the miners from the dank miasma of the plateau while they are working it still requires the Senate to pay a significant dividend to attract those workers to the location. With an easy route between Zenith and Spiral, however, another opportunity presents itself.

At the moment, the [[Architect of the Crucible]] is providing [[Architect_of_the_Crucible#Miracle_And_Wonder|specialist ushabti]] to the [[Brilliant Star]] in Redoubt. These ushabti are designed to operate in the deadly light that infuses the mines, a legacy of [[Cold Sun]]. Rather than support the Brilliant Star, the Architect of the Crucible, could instead create a workforce of ushabti infused with weirwood and mithril could to help operate the Legacy. That would boost the output of the Legacy by three wains of mithril at the cost, but production at the Star would drop by the same amount.

What is really needed is a way to expand the output of the Crucible of Fate. As is common with Urizeni structures, the facility is large and spacious; the problem is getting enough skilled artisans to work the forges. Urizen has never been a very populous nation, and there simply aren't enough artisans available to make it worthwhile running the forges night and day.

However there are more than enough League artisans in the various guilds that have moved to Apulian who are eagerly looking for work. If the Architect of the Crucible invited them to travel to the Crucible of Fate, then they could quickly learn how to make ushabti and once they had mastered the arts it would significantly improve the Architect's capacity to create ushabti.

If the Northern Way is completed, then at any time the Architect of the Crucible could email {{plot}} and indicate that they are overseeing the creation of ushabti for the Legacy rather than the Brilliant Star. That would reduce the output of the Star by 3 wains and increase the output of the Legacy by 3 wains.

Alternatively the Architect could email {{plot}} to indicate that they are inviting League artisans to come to the Crucible to learn how to make ushabti. With the benefit of so many additional artisans, the output of the Crucible would double - the Architect could support the Legacy and the Brilliant Star, increasing the output of both bourse resources.

In addition, the extra workforce would restore the ability of the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade personal resources. With Spiral back in Imperial control and League magicians receiving training in the creation, use and maintenance of ushabti, it would be possible for the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade League or Urizen personal resources in Spiral.

Once each season during [[downtime]], the Architect of the Crucible could select a single Urizen or League character with a mine, forest, herb garden, farm, or business in [[Morrow]], [[Redoubt]], [[Spiral]] or [[Zenith]], and commission the artisans at the Crucible to create bespoke ushabti for them. This would upgrade their personal resource by one level at a cost of three thrones for each level it is being upgraded to (so to upgrade a standard resource costs six thrones, while a level three resource would require twelve thrones to upgrade to level four). This is in place of all other costs - no [[mithril]], [[white granite]], or [[weirwood]] is required.

Of course the Architect of the Crucible might not want to share the secrets of ushabti with members of the League. That would be a decision that was down to them. But in either case, nothing could happen until the proposed Northern Way was completed.

==The Dark Mesa==
* '''The opportunity to build a fortification designed to enclose the {{Black Plateau}} is still viable'''
* '''The proposal for Oblivion's Edge would mitigate the impact of fighting in the territory for a season'''
* '''As long as the Block remains in tact it would also reduce the impact of the Plateau on life in inhabited areas of Spiral'''
* '''This proposal completely replaces the previous details for the creation of Oblivion's Edge'''

<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Oblivion's Edge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' The {{Black Plateau}}, Screed, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 white granite, 20 mithril and 300 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 4 seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 10 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a level one fortification in Screed
* Removes the threat from naifs in the territory
* Would help to defend against any direct attack on the {{Black Plateau}}
* Provides spartan accommodation for the Oblivion Sentinel
* Would prevent the {{Black Plateau}} being roused by a single season of fighting in the territory
* Raises taxation by 4 thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* If the Imperial Senate build the fortification and change the position to a League and Urizeni national appointment then the title would gain donations worth 5 crystal fire each year and 20 crowns per season
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
As part of their work to assess the threats present in Spiral and suggest ways to counter them, members of the [[Vigilance]] Assembly suggested the [[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#Oblivion's_Edge|construction of a fortification to enclose the {{Black Plateau}}]]. Their goal was to wall off access to the area, to prevent people blindly wandering into the most dangerous part of the territory, but also to prevent any opportunity for malicious actors - such as the Druj or the Grendel - from deliberately rousing it to violence by directly attacking it, as [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_(Spiral)|the Iron Helms did so dramatically five years ago]].

Of most interest to Naomi is the idea that the fortification might include mithril laced into the walls to try and contain some of the fell energies seeping out of the mesa. She has been charged with finding ways to improve the Prosperity of Spiral, but one of the first tenets of the Virtue enjoins people to "enjoy the fruits of your labour". It is harder than it should be to enjoy life in Spiral with the fearful shadow of the {{Black Plateau}} hanging over the territory. The more that can be done to contain it - the better people's lives will be.

Thus she is interested in the proposal to fortify Screed, because of the potential it offers to contain some of the fell energies leaching from the heights. The effects are small, but combined with the protections provided by [[Spiral#The_Block|the Block]] it would make life in Apulian and the lofty spires in the mountains much more liveable. At least it will for as long as the great mithril structure remains in good working order, which should be fine provided relations with the Cinion rebels who control the Block remain stable.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ylenwe001.webp|caption=[[Ylenwe]], the Dove of the Morning, offers some protection from the malign influence that fills the air in Spiral.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
Thus, Naomi has spent time revising the original proposals to bring them up to date with the latest techniques. The fortification would not be cheap - it would require 80 wains of white granite and 20 mithril and take a year to build, but now that the Empire has given [[Ylenwe]] amity, Zie is prepared to shield the workers from the Dark Eye's baleful glare so the labour costs would be no higher than normal

The fortification would offer a number of benefits; it turns out the area is not as defensible as first assumed, but the bastion would make the region much harder to take (the region would require 20VPs to capture) and provide a base for a garrison to patrol Urizen. That would be enough to dissuade the Druj or the Grendel staging a lightning raid on the {{Black Plateau}} to try and trigger it.

The mithril spines incorporated into the structure would slow the flow of energy to and from the Plateau, That wouldn't completely remove the risks involved in fighting in the territory, it wouldn't even reduce the losses inflicted on armies, but it would mean that the plateau would not be triggered by a single season of campaigning in the territory - and it would mean there might be an [[opportunity]] to prevent an eruption if the fighting went on longer than a season. Far from ideal maybe, but still a lot safer than the current situation.

When the fortification was first put forward, there was a suggestion that building it would help to reassure League and Urizen citizens in Spiral that the Empire was not ignoring the dangers posed by the {{Black Plateau}}. Interest in the work of the [[Oblivion Sentinel]] has only grown since then and after some effort Naomi is able to convince various League guilds to offer 20 crowns in support of the position - to match the five crystal fire provided by the Deathless Caves - but on the proviso that the title becomes a League and Urizeni national appointment - (like the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]]). It's not these League businesses particularly want to control the title, but they want to know their senators have a say in who holds the position.

The real gains though are the improvements in quality of life for the folks living Apulian as well as the spires, citadels and temples that dot the mountains. Most of these structures are now protected by mithril filigree that shields people from the worst of the {{Black Plateau}} while they are indoors. Crucially as the density of buildings in Apulian continues to rise, people have noticed that some of the narrower streets are now benefitting in the same way.

If the fortification were built - then it wouldn't just protect Screed, it would ameliorate the impacts of the {{Black Plateau}} on anyone who is protected by the novel architectural techniques developed by Urizeni magicians. It would do nothing for the wilderness - that would remain a treacherous and dangerous landscape, one only the hardy or the foolhardy might contemplate -there is [[Damming_the_Doubt#The_Aid_of_the_Dove|a complimentary offer from Ylenwe]] that ''might'' be able help with that problem. But the fortification would mean that most citizens living in Spiral could go about their business without having to endure the constant pressure the Plateau creates while they were indoors.

That would be invaluable. Naomi calculates that taxation from the territory would rise by four thrones a season, but the real benefits would be to the everyday life of the people who live in Spiral. Their capacity to enjoy the fruits of their labours would be much improved.
==Further Reading==
* [[Spiral]]
* [[Ylenwe]]

* [[The moth for the star]] - 387YE Autumn wind of fortune, relating to dramaturgical eccentricities in Spiral
* [[Daybreak in Spiral]] - 387YE Summer wind of fortune, discussing events in Spiral as a whole
* [[Nightfall in Apulian]]- 387YE Summer wind of fortune discussing events in the city of Apulian
* [[Damming the Doubt]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune discussing options and concerns related to Solen's Doubt
* [[Our eyes in Spiral]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune summarising the situation in Spiral
* [[Million_miles_of_water#The_Way_Less_Taken|Million miles of water]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune introducing the opportunity to flood the Doubt

My friends are my estate

2026-02-27T21:38:00Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Dark Depths */ redundant 'with'

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]

<ic>Arius didn't roll their eyes, but focused on making last minute adjustments to the plans laid out across the table. Their appointment with the prognosticator was in barely an hour and the architect still wasn't entirely happy with some of the details. Also, the Leaguers were arguing again, something which had become a theme every time they came together to discuss the plan.

"I'm sorry," said Karolin, trying to keep her patience. "But I do not see why this proposal requires a big statue in the middle of it. How does that promote the shipwright's arts exactly?"

Rafe shook his head, grin fixed, hands dancing as he talked as usual. "No, see, it makes perfect sense."

"But it's the ''mountebank''. They may be dressed up as the sailor, but in many ways that makes things worse given some of the resonances."

"Oh for sure," agreed Rafe in a way that made it clear he did not, in fact, agree with his colleague. "But also, think about it. As a mascot for Apulian it's ideal! Let me explain!"

"I doubt we can stop you," interjected Hyame d'Apulian. The orc was leant back in his chair, boots on the table, dividing his time between the conversation and a large box of chocolate-covered cherries balanced on his stomach. Rafe ignored him.

"Everyone talks about Apulian as the fifth city of the League," explained Rafe. "We'll always be the newest city, until the nation incorporates somewhere else, and even then we'll be listed ''after'' the other four. Tassato, Temeschwar, Sarvos, Holberg. They all have centuries of history."

"Apulian has centuries of history," interrupted Arius. The Urizen architect didn't look up from the plans scattered across the table between them. They leant forward as they spoke and made a slight adjustment to one of the diagrams. "Indeed, it could be argued that the city has ''more'' history than some of the League given my people were here before yours arrived on these shores."

"I don't disagree," said Rafe. "But also no. That was, without offence, Urizen history and that doesn't entirely count. You see?"

"I'm not sure I do..." began Arius, but Rafe continued speaking as if they had not spoken. The robed merrow closed their eyes momentarily, drawing their poise around them like a cloak, and continued tweaking the plans. Karolin noted their lips were quite thin, however, and suspected they were not used to being talked over.

"For hundreds of years it was a glorified town - no offence Arius - and then it was Grendel - and now it's League and I'm sorry but that counts for a great deal. But we're the newest child on the street, here. We've not really claimed our place. We're "the place the orcs came from" - no offence Hyame - and the "city below" where all the night magicians are dicking about - no offence Karolin - and that's about all the rest of the League thinks of us. The Mountebank is ''exactly'' the iconic presence we need. The upstart, the clever rascal, the spirit of transformation and... and..."

"Unleashed primal forces and destruction?" said Hyame, even more amused. The League orc dropped his feet from the table and leant forward. "Disguise and concealment? Dangerous emotions? Or given you've chosen the Sailor, a short-lived period of lavish entertainment that leaves you with a sword with no hilt? A blowhard and a braggart?"

Rafe coloured a little, but soldiered on.

"Look, I'm just saying. This is only part of it. I hear people saying we can't compete with Sarvos, or Holberg. We were barely in the great competition for paragons' sake! But I say where's your ''ambition''? What are we even ''here'' for if we ''don't'' compete with the other cities? If we don't nail our sails to the mast and show them that we are ''here'' and we are ''League''!"

"And a statue of the Sailor says all that does it?" Karolin asked quietly. Rafe fell silent, and huffed a great sigh.

"Well, only a bit. Unless... unless..." His eyes flared with light again, and he became animated again. "Unless we build the biggest goddam statue of the Sailor the world has ever seen and stick two fingers up to il Volpe and Sarvos! Then we'd ''really'' be sending a message to the rest of the League that we're coming after their crowns!"

As he'd spoken, Rafe had jumped up onto the table and posed dramatically, one foot in a plate of rice and the other on the plans for the new boatyard, two fingers raised in a traditional gesture of defiance. Hyame applauded, only slightly sarcastically. Karolin shook her head, face clouded with doubt.

Arius didn't roll their eyes, and held their peace, and not for the first time wondered why the League was like this, and why they were so drawn to their often misplaced enthusiasms. Not for the first time they promised themselves that when ''this'' project was done they would head back up into the mountains for a little peace and quiet... knowing as they did so they were fooling nobody least of all themselves.</ic>

<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorSpiral.jpg|caption='''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', Senator for Spiral|align=left|width=350}}</div>
==Overview==
[[Spiral]], for centuries [[Urizen]] heartland, now part of [[the League]]. The transition has not been entirely trouble-free, but [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Treaty_with_Urizen_of_the_Silver_Flame|the treaty with the Silver Flame]], the non-Imperial Urizen has tamped down the risk of open conflict. Members of the Synod have been attempting to heal the rift, with more positive sentiments emerging from both sides. The League Assembly endorsed [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_71|Isaia Pavone di Sarvos' statement of principle]] calling for people to ''"enjoy the fruits of both nations’ labour together, now and in years to come"'' with a greater majority. If the Urizen Assembly were a little less enthusiastic about [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_163|Halkyon of the Myriad Stream's complimentary statement]] that is perhaps understandable given the circumstances.

Where the two sides have managed to cooperate, the results have been impressive. Projects like [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]] and [[Damming the Doubt]] demonstrate what can be achieved for both nations when they work together. During the Autumn Equinox, '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''' the [[Senator]] for Spiral, proposed a timely [[appraisal]] to build on these successes by looking "for ways to draw on the best of League innovation and Urizen wisdom to bolster Spiral's prosperity." The Senate agreed, and as requested [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] was dispatched to explore [[opportunity|opportunities]] in the south-eastern Empire.

As is ever the case in Spiral, the work is made more difficult by the omnipresent yoke of the {{Black Plateau}}. The malignant force that squats at the centre of the [[territory]] exacerbates every bad feeling, every doubt, and if not checked seeps into the spirit of anyone who spends time in the territory. Urizen ingenuity in the form of [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] has helped blunt its effects, at least in the remaining [[spire|spires]] and in the settlements of the League, but the rocky land between settlements remains difficult and dangerous.

Fleets, businesses, military units and farms are all suffering particularly badly from the effects of the {{Black Plateau}}. There's precious little point in trying to help farms, since there are so few of them, but it is clear that one of the simplest ways to boost the Prosperity of Spiral might be to find an approach that could mitigate the problems that the other resources are suffering.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBLeague.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
==Situation in Spiral==
* '''Relations between the League citizens, and remaining Urizen citizens, are becoming easier
Some have compared the city of Apulian with [[Temeschwar]] - a League city with a similar past in that it combines [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Wisdom]] with League [[Ambition]]. While the Plateau remains a problem, recent developments have gone some way towards helping bolster the prosperity of Spiral. The creation of the [[Road_out_of_nowhere#Southern_Skyways|Bridge of the Air]] has seen several smaller "skyways" link isolated spires and settlements, ease passage through more difficult areas, and greatly improve trade between and through the mountains. The completion of [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]], the grand highway that runs through southern Spiral and links [[Mareave]] to the rest of the Empire, has likewise done wonders for the wealth of the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] in particular.

Naomi is the ideal choice to try to bring League and Urizen minds together to work on the problem. She always focuses on finding the most diplomatic possible solution to the problems she is dispatched to examine. She is known to be adroit at identifying options that are best placed to satisfy the concerns of the people affected though she tends to concentrate on the best possible solution to a problem rather than the cheapest or the most efficient.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBUrizen.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
The timing is also apposite - work on the [[Construct_Barossa_University_of_Dramaturgical_Arts|new College of the Dramaturgical Arts]] is underway, but the high costs involved have meant progress is slow. The College should prove a valuable boon for the territory, especially for those interested in the arts of [[Dramaturgy]], provided some way can be found to fund the development.

There are several areas, then, that Naomi has explored. The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies just to the south of Spiral and has recently become a "protectorate" of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - a people known for their love of trade and enthusiasm for wealth who are already invested in the Empire. The city of Apulian is expanding and growing in leaps and bounds, clearly benefitting from the fusion of Urizeni and League magical lore. The spires of the highlands are rich in magical understanding, crystal mana, and magical metals.

==Night Sailing==
* '''Building a specialised dock in Apulian would remove the penalties suffered by Imperial fleets in Spiral'''
* '''It would also provide benefits to Spiral fleets engaged in espionage, scouting, and smuggling'''
* '''It could serve as a refuge for an Imperial navy'''
* '''It would bring more maritime trade into Apulian and increase taxation by 2 thrones a season'''

The city of Apulian is a bustling port with an eclectic feel. It grew slowly over the years, but the infusion of settlers, first the Grendel and then the League have ushered in two major waves of expansion. Now the docks are extensive, but syncretised, merging many different styles of architecture, Imperial and otherwise. Trade has grown with it, with more ships from foreign ports as well as vessels from Highguard and the Brass Coast seen entering the harbour.

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Obsidian Shipyard'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 35 wains of weirwood, 25 wains of mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver, 180 crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets taking a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sarcophan port
* Lowers the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sumaah or Commonwealth port
* Provides [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] to Imperial navies
* Increases taxation by two thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Increasing the costs to 85 weirwood, 50 mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver and 405 crowns would increase the ''benefits'' to fleets to two ranks rather than one and increase the taxation by five thrones a season</td></tr>
</td></tr>
</table></div>

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''</big>Ambitious Statuary</big>'''<p>While the statue of the Sailor is integrated into the Obsidian Shipyards, it is not a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos. On the other hand, Ambition is a virtue and there's no reason it ''couldn't'' be a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos... All it would need is a little vision, some engineering know-how to scale it up a little, and a large amount of white granite.</p>

Whoever commissions the Obsidian Shipwrights could choose to increase the costs by 50 white granite, 25 mithril, and 225 crowns, and add an extra six months to the construction. The Sailor would then be a massive figure, gazing indulgently down on the docks and towering over the city of Apulian. Another wonder of the world! This would increase the level of investment in Spiral's fleets by another rank, fleets engaged in trade with Sarcophan or [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] actions would gain a total of two ranks. It would also increase the taxation by five thrones rather than two and further cement Apulian as a rival to Sarvos, as well as a centre of dramaturgical excellence.

One of the Urizen dramaturgists, incidentally, points out that whether a giant statue is built or not is besides the point because they argue that instead of the Sailor, the best choice for a statue on the Obsidian Shipwrights is [[the Witch]] who represents mysteries, common sense, and [[Prosperity]]. There's no reason that whoever commissions the construction couldn't specify that the statue should be of the Witch instead of the Sailor - either would work fine (other personae would be too dissonant with obfuscation to complement the work).</box></div>
The looming presence of {{Black Plateau}} remains the biggest impediment to further expansion of the trade. Until recently, moving goods and passengers across the Bay of Catazar by sail was preferable to travel under the Plateau's sinister gaze. The creation of Curstag's Way, complete with rest stops infused with mithril, made it easier to move goods by land in the territory. Could a similar solution benefit the Apulian docks?

While [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] protects any structure properly infused with [[mithril]], that's little comfort to ship's crews. Among some of the first people to arrange an appointment with Naomi when she arrived in Apulian were a loose association of ship owners and merchant traders supported by members of the Purple Sail ''sodality''. While most were League citizens, there were a handful of Urizen interests represented as well as some [[Sarcophan Delves|Sarcophan]] and a merchant from [[Mareave#Beoaridh|Beoraidh]]. All were keen to find a way to ameliorate the effects of the Plateau on shipping.

Much discussion between various experts ensues, but in the end it is the seagoing expertise of Danilo di Tassato, a former gondolier and reckoner, and an Urizeni [[seer]], Procopius of the Shadow Moon that provides the answer. Between them they have developed a way to infuse [[mithril]] and [[weltsilver]] into the hulls and sails of ships to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}} by wrapping the vessel in whispers of shadow pulled from the Night realm. According to Procopius, it works because the enchantments woven into the ship make it harder for the {{Black Plateau}} to "see" the vessel, which has some rather disturbing implications. Regardless of how the magic works, a night-time trip across the bay in Danilo's converted [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumboat Sarcophan Bumboat] is enough to prove to Naomi and her team that the approach is undeniably effective.

The demonstration draws interest from many, including the Sarcophan ''College of Silent Voices'' and the League orcs of the [[Pebbles_drawn_from_a_heap#The_Circle_of_Black_Sand|Circle of Black Sand]]. Working together produces an ambitious proposal that might see Apulian eventually rival [[Sarvos]] as a seat of trade. The Obsidian Shipwrights would be an area of the docks dedicated both to building trading vessels, and refitting existing vessels with mithril traceries to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}}. A centrepiece of the construction would be a large mithril inlaid statue of the [[The_Mountebank#The_Sailor|Sailor]]. This raises a few eyebrows - the Sailor is a specific version of [[the Mountebank]] in [[dramaturgy]] associated with suspicious gifts, good times, and trouble. Yet they are also an excellent fit for magic that hides folk from unfriendly eyes. It would in no way rival the [[Sarvos#The_Colossus_of_Sarvos|Colossus of Sarvos]]... but it might send a message about the Ambitions of the people of Apulian.

The shipyards would remove the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}. However, the benefits go further than that. The Night magic would suffuse fleets based in the territory, allowing them to move quickly and quietly, making them excellent spies and smugglers. Every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank bonus whenever they undertake a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action. Such vessels would also be well received in the Sarcophan Delves, providing the same bonus to any [[Fleet#Trading|trading]] action with the Delves - both the [[Foreign_ports#Sarcophan|city itself]], the [[Foreign ports#Betovering|Betovering docks]] but also the less accessible, satellite ports allowing improved access to the medicines of ''Moeraskriden'' or the contraband of ''Schedalhaven''.

Sadly the approach is not completely without drawbacks - the obfuscation provided by the lingering Night magics would inevitably cause consternation in Sumaash and Commonwealth ports. Both nations are sticklers for the rule of law, with little time for smugglers. The suspicion that such a vessel would be sure to arouse means every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank penalty whenever they undertake any trading action with a port controlled by either nation.

This focus on swift, subtle vessels with low draughts means the Shipwrights would be unsuitable for creating an [[Imperial navy]]. Built in harmony with the magics coursing through Apulian, however, the Obsidian Shipwrights would provide a safe haven for warships - it would provide the [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] benefit to a navy that docked in Apulian, where the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] provided further protection.

On which subject...

==Mellow Mists==
<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><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Palace of Mists'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification Upgrade</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 wains of white granite, 240 crowns, a year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Improves the fortification at Apulian to rank two
* Forces attacking the region from the sea (such as [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive|shore offensive]] or the equivalent) suffer a 20% penalty to VPs
* Improves taxation by 5 thrones a season
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Naomi's proposal would upgrade the fortification at Apulian to rank two'''
* '''Forces using shore offensive or equivalent orders would suffer a twenty percent penalty to VPs'''
* '''Bolstering the defences would increase taxation by five thrones a season, offsetting some of the increased upkeep'''
The sea is the lifeblood of Apulian, but it brings with it additional threats. The [[Grendel]] have demonstrated their ruthless capacity to seize Imperial ports with their recent [[To ruin|attack on Elos]]. The [[Children of Wrecks]] have been [[Red_skies|defeated but not destroyed]]. The [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] warships that [[A beacon of smoke|burnt Siroc]] are still out there. Apulian is protected by the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] but there is a limit to what it can achieve, especially against a maritime threat.

League engineers and Urizen architects have worked together to address the problem that is the flip-side of a lot of Apulian's prosperity. Their proposal is to build on the foundation laid by Salt Lord Kaliact. The beautiful, well-fortified palace takes pride of place near the docks but there is more to expanding it's defences than simply building its walls up. Part of their inspiration comes, unsurprisingly, from the [[Sarvos#The_Great_Chain|Great Chain of Sarvos]], a mighty series of walls, towers, and barracks, coupled with great iron chains attached to blocks of white granite that can be raised or lowered to provide a serious obstacle to naval forces attempting a shore offensive aimed at capturing [[Sarvos#Cigno|Cigno]]. Part of the defence incorporates a similar set of obstacles, but thanks to the ingenuity of both Urizen and the League there is more to their plan.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sadogua001d.webp|caption=Heralds of [[Sadogua]] have offered advice on ways to weave Night magic around Apulian.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
The [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is a useful [[ritual]] that weaves wards of obfuscation and misdirection through an area of [[Region_qualities#Marsh|marshes]]. While [[Night magic]] is generally of [[War_magic#Night_Magic|limited usefulness]] in a war, the [[Night magic#Resonance|resonance]] of [[Night_magic#Obfuscation|obfuscation]] presents several opportunities to protect against assault. Urizen Seers calculate that it would be possible to permanently tap into some of the rich veins of Night magic that now permeate the city, and focus it across the coast of Apulian.

Keen eyes study the effectiveness of the walls of mist that surround [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#The_Lyceum|the Lyceum]], and the involvement of the eternal [[Sadogua]] in protecting that place. Heralds of the ''Black Sloth'' have been sought out - some Urizen make the long trek to the Marches to put some of those celebrating the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail|wassail]] there on the spot - and it seems that the ''Globbersnotch'' has provided some advice on ways to make the most of the magic in Apulian. While being a little shifty about Night magic and its relationship to the sea (recent [[historical research]] into the nature of eternals associated with the sea might provide some insight here).

Under the proposal, the Palace of Apulian would become the Palace of Mists, capable of calling up confusing fogs to misdirect invading ships and even armies attempting to attack Apulus. It would become a fully effective level two fortification, and in addition, any force attacking the region from the sea - any navy and armies using shore offensive - would suffer a 20% penalty to VPs.

The palace would require 80 wains of white granite and 30 thrones in labour costs, take a year to complete. It would increase the upkeep of the Palace by an additional 10 thrones each season, however, the presence of such a powerful defence protecting the port and the ships using it would boost trade in Spiral. As a result the taxation of the territory would increase by five thrones a season, offsetting half of the increased upkeep.
==Swords Against Darkness==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Requires a statement of principle in support of raising swords against the darkness to pass the League and the Urizen Assembly in the same season.
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the Venture - Swords Against Darkness - available to League, Urizen military and Dawnish military units
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: HotPink;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Venture Type:''' Questing</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' The League, Urizen and Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Duration:''' One year
<tr><td>'''Rewards:'''
* A standard military unit would receive 3 mana crystals and 2 liao
* A military unit that is enchanted or upgraded will receive proportionately more
* A rank 6 or higher military unit (from upgrades or rituals) will receive a Circlet of Fallen Snow as part of the rewards
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Duration becomes open-ended if supported by military units with a total effective strength of 2000 for at least three of the four seasons
* If that happens the taxation of Spiral will increase by 6 thrones and the penalty of military units from the {{Black Plateau}} will be removed
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The League and Urizen national assemblies could use a statement of principle to create a new questing venture in Spiral'''
* '''If enough military units undertake the venture over the next year then it will increase taxation by 6 thrones a season and remove the penalty on Spiral military units'''

One of the challenges in Urizen is that after three decades of war, and the chaos that followed, and the influence of the {{Black Plateau}}, the places between spires and outside the walls of Apulian and [[Spiral#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]], are filled with unknown dangers. Of course there are dangers in many of the less travelled parts of the Empire, but Spiral is particularly afflicted.

[[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#The_Lost|The Lost]] is the common term for those folk whose minds and spirits have been undone by the baleful glare of the plateau. They are not the only threat however - there are still remnants of the [[Druj]] insurgents and [[Grendel]] invaders, small groups of orcs belonging to neither nation hiding out in the wilds. There are also rumours of disciples of [[sword scholar|Sulemaine i Taziel]] hiding in the nooks and crannies of Spiral. These former sword scholars have decisively split with the Empire and represent a real threat to those who remain loyal. All in addition to the usual threats posed by dangerous creatures from the realms, unliving horrors, bandits and outlaws, and allegedly even some rogue ushabti.

Most [[spire|spires]] are sufficiently well-defended to be protect them against incursions and the city of Apulian is far too large to be threatened. As a result, many inhabitants of Spiral have been able to ignore these threats - the League can go about their business in Apulian, while the spires communicate via the heliopticon, and keep to the most well-trod routes when travelling. As a result, thus far, it has not been a pressing problem.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: right;">
[[file:Assembly_League.png]]
[[file:Assembly_Urizen.png]]
</div>
Just because the threat is not urgent does not mean it is not important however. The Urizeni are having to employ extra sentinels to keep their spires safe - and can only travel abroad in large well-protected groups. League merchants moving cargo down the Great Apulian Way are struggling to hire enough guards to protect the caravans. Everywhere you look, there is a need for competent warriors to keep loyal Imperial citizens safe. To many that's just life in Spiral - but to Naomi, it's a subtle but pervasive tax on the Prosperity of everyone who lives here.

After a lot of work persuading some of the wealthier Apulian merchants and key [[arbiter|arbiters]], Naomi is able to persuade them to back an attempt to solve the problem. The solution is simple enough, and for once, Naomi 's idea requires relatively little upfront investment. If the Empire can muster enough military units to directly attack the threats in Spiral, then that the inhabitants of the territory would be able to get on top of the problem. If that could be achieved, it would only need a little support on an ongoing basis to keep the threats under control. Naomi likens it to weeding an overgrown garden - it requires a lot more effort to get the weeds under control than it does to keep it that way.

If her proposal is successful, then it wouldn't just help to make Spiral safer, it would boost Prosperity and taxation in the territory and free up numerous [[sentinel|sentinels]], and [[bravo|bravos]] to find work elsewhere, which would make efforts by military units based in the territory more profitable. The challenge is logistics - getting enough volunteers for the dangerous work won't be easy.

For that to happen, will require a suitably worded Statement of Principle in support of the [[venture]] in both the League and the Urizen Assembly. If both passed in the same season, the proposal would draw enough support from both League and Urizen backers to be viable. That would create a new questing venture, Swords Against Darkness, which would be available to League and Urizen military units (and Dawn since it's more trouble than it's worth to keep their glory hunters away from a quest). With the backing of wealthy patrons, the venture would provide 3 mana crystals and two liao to any standard military unit taking part. A military unit with at least 200 effective strength (from upgrades or rituals) would receive a [[Circlet of Falling Snow]] as part of their rewards. The potential returns aren't great - but of course the Senate could always apply the Guerdon to the expedition.

The venture would last for a year - but if at least 2000 strength of military units undertook the venture on three seasons out of the four, then the venture would remain available for the foreseeable future. If that happened, then the taxation of the territory would permanently increase by 6 thrones a season and the current penalty to military units from the {{Black Plateau}} would be permanently removed.

Given the plan needs the support of enough military units over the coming year, there's a brief discussion of whether it would be easier to just send an army to do it. It wouldn't be a cheap option - armies operating in Spiral suffer badly, but the idea is abandoned when the real cost becomes clear. Sending in an army to attack hundreds or more enemies is almost certain to rouse the {{Black Plateau}} still further. Dozens of small scale operations to hunt down dangerous individuals will be fine - an attempt to have thousands of soldiers comb the mountain side would not...
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=LeagueDrawing.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of the League are adept at finding ingenious solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems.|width=250}}</div>
==Spiral and Zenith==
* '''Building a road to connect southern Spiral with Zenith could bring significant benefits
* '''The special ushabti created at the Crucible of Fate would work well in the Legacy
Since it was recovered from the [[Druj]], the Urizen territory of Zenith has seen significant investment in its prosperity. Between the restoration of the [[Zenith#Proceris|Golden Cascade]] and the establishment of the [[Zenith#Crucible of Fate|Crucible of Fate]], great wealth has accrued to the spires north of Spiral. Some of that wealth has filtered through to the spires of Spiral - via the [[Zenith#Bridge_of_the_Air|Bridge of the Air]] in particular - but Naomi believes that more could be done. She is very interested in fostering more communication between the arcanists and [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] of Zenith and their opposite numbers in the city of Apulian.

At the moment, while the Bridge of the Air provides benefits to the people of Spiral, the ''skyway'' is mostly restricted to the northern and western mountains. However, the success of [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way|Curstag's Way]] presents obvious opportunities. The highway is already proving to be a success, both for its ease of use and the well-protected hostelries along its length. After consulting with [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Lucia, Sheeva, Tressida and Croilus]], Naomi proposes to build on that success - much as the they intimated might be the case when [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|the four first proposed the new road]].

The Grendel have laid in cursory highways between Apulian and the [[Legacy]]; Naomi suggests that it would be possible to expand those roads, and most importantly the stopping points along their length, up through the [[Spiral#The_Passes|Twilight Gate]] into [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]], there to connect with a major artery of the Bridge of the Sky connecting the farms around the Golden Cascade to the Crucible of Fate. Running through Apstrus and Ossuary, the route would give [[Spiral#Screed|Screed]] a wide berth but would provide a useful trade connection not only for Apulian, but for the spires both in Spiral and Zenith, and potentially to the Imperial orcs in Mareave as well.

===Northern Way===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Northern Way'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulian, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 wains of white granite, 30 wains of mithril, 240 Crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Master of Rings commissions the road 6 wains of white granite will be provided by League citizens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Urizen Assembly supports the road with a suitably worded statement of principle, 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Raises the level of investment in Zenith by one providing 36 rings for each business in the territory
* Removes the penalty to businesses in Spiral from the {{Black Plateau}}
* Enables the Crucible of Fate to boost the output of the Legacy and upgrade personal resources
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A great work investing in roads between Apulian and Zenith would boost businesses in Zenith'''
* '''It would also remove the penalty imposed on businesses by the {{Black Plateau}}'''
Naomi isn't worried about what the road is called, apart from to note with amusement that the chances it will be called the ''Northern Calumo-Sheeva-Nightshadow Highway'' are vanishingly low. Whoever commissions it will determine how it is referred to in official documents. It builds on the success of Curstag's Way, providing not only a safe and reliable route through the lowlands but plenty of specifically established stopping places for caravans and travellers protected by the power of [[Spiral#The_Block|the block]].

The costs will be greater than those associated with Curstag's Way, as it must pass through much more difficult terrain. The immediate benefits will accrue not in Spiral, but in Zenith. Easing trade between Urizen and the League allows the benefits of cargos brought into Apulian to be felt in Zenith, and creates new markets for Urizen goods - especially books and magic items. This would represent another level of investment in Zenith, over and above that provided by the Bridge of the Sky.

Securing a second - and arguably more lucrative - trade route through Spiral to Apulian would also provide significant benefits to businesses and farms in the territory. The impact of the {{Black Plateau}} is particularly acute on those moving cargoes overland through the territory. With regular stopping places, and a road to speed travel, this impact would be almost entirely mitigated. The penalty to businesses from the plateau would be cancelled as long as the roads were operable.

The project is expensive, but the costs could be cut slightly if the project has the clear backing of prominent citizens of Urizen and the League. If the Master of Rings commissions the road, 6 wains of white granite will be provided by enthusiastic League citizens. If the Urizen Assembly passes a suitably worded statement of principle in support of the new road then 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Urizen.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of Urizen have rebuilt Zenith in the wake of the [[Druj]] occupation. Their mastery of the form and function of the ''ushabti'' goes from strength to strength.|width=250}}</div>
===Dark Depths===
* '''Completing the Northern Way could enable the Architect of the Crucible to employ members of League artisan guilds'''
* '''Employing more artisans would enable the Architect to boost production of the legacy'''
* '''It would also restore and extend the ability to upgrade personal resources'''

The road would obviously run past the Legacy; while the raw mithril here shelters the miners from the dank miasma of the plateau while they are working it still requires the Senate to pay a significant dividend to attract those workers to the location. With an easy route between Zenith and Spiral, however, another opportunity presents itself.

At the moment, the [[Architect of the Crucible]] is providing [[Architect_of_the_Crucible#Miracle_And_Wonder|specialist ushabti]] to the [[Brilliant Star]] in Redoubt. These ushabti are designed to operate in the deadly light that infuses the mines, a legacy of [[Cold Sun]]. Rather than support the Brilliant Star, the Architect of the Crucible, could instead create a workforce of ushabti infused with weirwood and mithril could to help operate the Legacy. That would boost the output of the Legacy by three wains of mithril at the cost, but production at the Star would drop by the same amount.

What is really needed is a way to expand the output of the Crucible of Fate. As is common with Urizeni structures, the facility is large and spacious; the problem is getting enough skilled artisans to work the forges. Urizen has never been a very populous nation, and there simply aren't enough artisans available to make it worthwhile running the forges night and day.

However there are more than enough League artisans in the various guilds that have moved to Apulian who are eagerly looking for work. If the Architect of the Crucible invited them to travel to the Crucible of Fate, then they could quickly learn how to make ushabti and once they had mastered the arts it would significantly improve the Architect's capacity to create ushabti.

If the Northern Way is completed, then at any time the Architect of the Crucible could email {{plot}} and indicate that they are overseeing the creation of ushabti for the Legacy rather than the Brilliant Star. That would reduce the output of the Star by 3 wains and increase the output of the Legacy by 3 wains.

Alternatively the Architect could email {{plot}} to indicate that they are inviting League artisans to come to the Crucible to learn how to make ushabti. With the benefit of so many additional artisans, the output of the Crucible would double - the Architect could support the Legacy and the Brilliant Star, increasing the output of both bourse resources.

In addition, the extra workforce would restore the ability of the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade personal resources. With Spiral back in Imperial control and League magicians receiving training in the creation, use and maintenance of ushabti, it would be possible for the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade League or Urizen personal resources in Spiral.

Once each season during [[downtime]], the Architect of the Crucible could select a single Urizen or League character with a mine, forest, herb garden, farm, or business in [[Morrow]], [[Redoubt]], [[Spiral]] or [[Zenith]], and commission the artisans at the Crucible to create bespoke ushabti for them. This would upgrade their personal resource by one level at a cost of three thrones for each level it is being upgraded to (so to upgrade a standard resource costs six thrones, while a level three resource would require twelve thrones to upgrade to level four). This is in place of all other costs - no [[mithril]],[[white granite]], or [[weirwood]] is required.

Of course the Architect of the Crucible might not want to share the secrets of ushabti with members of the League. That would be a decision that was down to them. But in either case, nothing could happen until the proposed Northern Way was completed.

==The Dark Mesa==
* '''The opportunity to build a fortification designed to enclose the {{Black Plateau}} is still viable'''
* '''The proposal for Oblivion's Edge would mitigate the impact of fighting in the territory for a season'''
* '''As long as the Block remains in tact it would also reduce the impact of the Plateau on life in inhabited areas of Spiral'''
* '''This proposal completely replaces the previous details for the creation of Oblivion's Edge'''

<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Oblivion's Edge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' The {{Black Plateau}}, Screed, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 white granite, 20 mithril and 300 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 4 seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 10 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a level one fortification in Screed
* Removes the threat from naifs in the territory
* Would help to defend against any direct attack on the {{Black Plateau}}
* Provides spartan accommodation for the Oblivion Sentinel
* Would prevent the {{Black Plateau}} being roused by a single season of fighting in the territory
* Raises taxation by 4 thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* If the Imperial Senate build the fortification and change the position to a League and Urizeni national appointment then the title would gain donations worth 5 crystal fire each year and 20 crowns per season
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
As part of their work to assess the threats present in Spiral and suggest ways to counter them, members of the [[Vigilance]] Assembly suggested the [[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#Oblivion's_Edge|construction of a fortification to enclose the {{Black Plateau}}]]. Their goal was to wall off access to the area, to prevent people blindly wandering into the most dangerous part of the territory, but also to prevent any opportunity for malicious actors - such as the Druj or the Grendel - from deliberately rousing it to violence by directly attacking it, as [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_(Spiral)|the Iron Helms did so dramatically five years ago]].

Of most interest to Naomi is the idea that the fortification might include mithril laced into the walls to try and contain some of the fell energies seeping out of the mesa. She has been charged with finding ways to improve the Prosperity of Spiral, but one of the first tenets of the Virtue enjoins people to "enjoy the fruits of your labour". It is harder than it should be to enjoy life in Spiral with the fearful shadow of the {{Black Plateau}} hanging over the territory. The more that can be done to contain it - the better people's lives will be.

Thus she is interested in the proposal to fortify Screed, because of the potential it offers to contain some of the fell energies leaching from the heights. The effects are small, but combined with the protections provided by [[Spiral#The_Block|the Block]] it would make life in Apulian and the lofty spires in the mountains much more liveable. At least it will for as long as the great mithril structure remains in good working order, which should be fine provided relations with the Cinion rebels who control the Block remain stable.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ylenwe001.webp|caption=[[Ylenwe]], the Dove of the Morning, offers some protection from the malign influence that fills the air in Spiral.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
Thus, Naomi has spent time revising the original proposals to bring them up to date with the latest techniques. The fortification would not be cheap - it would require 80 wains of white granite and 20 mithril and take a year to build, but now that the Empire has given [[Ylenwe]] amity, Zie is prepared to shield the workers from the Dark Eye's baleful glare so the labour costs would be no higher than normal

The fortification would offer a number of benefits; it turns out the area is not as defensible as first assumed, but the bastion would make the region much harder to take (the region would require 20VPs to capture) and provide a base for a garrison to patrol Urizen. That would be enough to dissuade the Druj or the Grendel staging a lightning raid on the {{Black Plateau}} to try and trigger it.

The mithril spines incorporated into the structure would slow the flow of energy to and from the Plateau, That wouldn't completely remove the risks involved in fighting in the territory, it wouldn't even reduce the losses inflicted on armies, but it would mean that the plateau would not be triggered by a single season of campaigning in the territory - and it would mean there might be an [[opportunity]] to prevent an eruption if the fighting went on longer than a season. Far from ideal maybe, but still a lot safer than the current situation.

When the fortification was first put forward, there was a suggestion that building it would help to reassure League and Urizen citizens in Spiral that the Empire was not ignoring the dangers posed by the {{Black Plateau}}. Interest in the work of the [[Oblivion Sentinel]] has only grown since then and after some effort Naomi is able to convince various League guilds to offer 20 crowns in support of the position - to match the five crystal fire provided by the Deathless Caves - but on the proviso that the title becomes a League and Urizeni national appointment - (like the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]]). It's not these League businesses particularly want to control the title, but they want to know their senators have a say in who holds the position.

The real gains though are the improvements in quality of life for the folks living Apulian as well as the spires, citadels and temples that dot the mountains. Most of these structures are now protected by mithril filigree that shields people from the worst of the {{Black Plateau}} while they are indoors. Crucially as the density of buildings in Apulian continues to rise, people have noticed that some of the narrower streets are now benefitting in the same way.

If the fortification were built - then it wouldn't just protect Screed, it would ameliorate the impacts of the {{Black Plateau}} on anyone who is protected by the novel architectural techniques developed by Urizeni magicians. It would do nothing for the wilderness - that would remain a treacherous and dangerous landscape, one only the hardy or the foolhardy might contemplate -there is [[Damming_the_Doubt#The_Aid_of_the_Dove|a complimentary offer from Ylenwe]] that ''might'' be able help with that problem. But the fortification would mean that most citizens living in Spiral could go about their business without having to endure the constant pressure the Plateau creates while they were indoors.

That would be invaluable. Naomi calculates that taxation from the territory would rise by four thrones a season, but the real benefits would be to the everyday life of the people who live in Spiral. Their capacity to enjoy the fruits of their labours would be much improved.
==Further Reading==
* [[Spiral]]
* [[Ylenwe]]

* [[The moth for the star]] - 387YE Autumn wind of fortune, relating to dramaturgical eccentricities in Spiral
* [[Daybreak in Spiral]] - 387YE Summer wind of fortune, discussing events in Spiral as a whole
* [[Nightfall in Apulian]]- 387YE Summer wind of fortune discussing events in the city of Apulian
* [[Damming the Doubt]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune discussing options and concerns related to Solen's Doubt
* [[Our eyes in Spiral]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune summarising the situation in Spiral
* [[Million_miles_of_water#The_Way_Less_Taken|Million miles of water]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune introducing the opportunity to flood the Doubt

My friends are my estate

2026-02-27T21:26:34Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Situation in Spiral */ Removing redundant 'sentence'.

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]

<ic>Arius didn't roll their eyes, but focused on making last minute adjustments to the plans laid out across the table. Their appointment with the prognosticator was in barely an hour and the architect still wasn't entirely happy with some of the details. Also, the Leaguers were arguing again, something which had become a theme every time they came together to discuss the plan.

"I'm sorry," said Karolin, trying to keep her patience. "But I do not see why this proposal requires a big statue in the middle of it. How does that promote the shipwright's arts exactly?"

Rafe shook his head, grin fixed, hands dancing as he talked as usual. "No, see, it makes perfect sense."

"But it's the ''mountebank''. They may be dressed up as the sailor, but in many ways that makes things worse given some of the resonances."

"Oh for sure," agreed Rafe in a way that made it clear he did not, in fact, agree with his colleague. "But also, think about it. As a mascot for Apulian it's ideal! Let me explain!"

"I doubt we can stop you," interjected Hyame d'Apulian. The orc was leant back in his chair, boots on the table, dividing his time between the conversation and a large box of chocolate-covered cherries balanced on his stomach. Rafe ignored him.

"Everyone talks about Apulian as the fifth city of the League," explained Rafe. "We'll always be the newest city, until the nation incorporates somewhere else, and even then we'll be listed ''after'' the other four. Tassato, Temeschwar, Sarvos, Holberg. They all have centuries of history."

"Apulian has centuries of history," interrupted Arius. The Urizen architect didn't look up from the plans scattered across the table between them. They leant forward as they spoke and made a slight adjustment to one of the diagrams. "Indeed, it could be argued that the city has ''more'' history than some of the League given my people were here before yours arrived on these shores."

"I don't disagree," said Rafe. "But also no. That was, without offence, Urizen history and that doesn't entirely count. You see?"

"I'm not sure I do..." began Arius, but Rafe continued speaking as if they had not spoken. The robed merrow closed their eyes momentarily, drawing their poise around them like a cloak, and continued tweaking the plans. Karolin noted their lips were quite thin, however, and suspected they were not used to being talked over.

"For hundreds of years it was a glorified town - no offence Arius - and then it was Grendel - and now it's League and I'm sorry but that counts for a great deal. But we're the newest child on the street, here. We've not really claimed our place. We're "the place the orcs came from" - no offence Hyame - and the "city below" where all the night magicians are dicking about - no offence Karolin - and that's about all the rest of the League thinks of us. The Mountebank is ''exactly'' the iconic presence we need. The upstart, the clever rascal, the spirit of transformation and... and..."

"Unleashed primal forces and destruction?" said Hyame, even more amused. The League orc dropped his feet from the table and leant forward. "Disguise and concealment? Dangerous emotions? Or given you've chosen the Sailor, a short-lived period of lavish entertainment that leaves you with a sword with no hilt? A blowhard and a braggart?"

Rafe coloured a little, but soldiered on.

"Look, I'm just saying. This is only part of it. I hear people saying we can't compete with Sarvos, or Holberg. We were barely in the great competition for paragons' sake! But I say where's your ''ambition''? What are we even ''here'' for if we ''don't'' compete with the other cities? If we don't nail our sails to the mast and show them that we are ''here'' and we are ''League''!"

"And a statue of the Sailor says all that does it?" Karolin asked quietly. Rafe fell silent, and huffed a great sigh.

"Well, only a bit. Unless... unless..." His eyes flared with light again, and he became animated again. "Unless we build the biggest goddam statue of the Sailor the world has ever seen and stick two fingers up to il Volpe and Sarvos! Then we'd ''really'' be sending a message to the rest of the League that we're coming after their crowns!"

As he'd spoken, Rafe had jumped up onto the table and posed dramatically, one foot in a plate of rice and the other on the plans for the new boatyard, two fingers raised in a traditional gesture of defiance. Hyame applauded, only slightly sarcastically. Karolin shook her head, face clouded with doubt.

Arius didn't roll their eyes, and held their peace, and not for the first time wondered why the League was like this, and why they were so drawn to their often misplaced enthusiasms. Not for the first time they promised themselves that when ''this'' project was done they would head back up into the mountains for a little peace and quiet... knowing as they did so they were fooling nobody least of all themselves.</ic>

<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorSpiral.jpg|caption='''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', Senator for Spiral|align=left|width=350}}</div>
==Overview==
[[Spiral]], for centuries [[Urizen]] heartland, now part of [[the League]]. The transition has not been entirely trouble-free, but [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Treaty_with_Urizen_of_the_Silver_Flame|the treaty with the Silver Flame]], the non-Imperial Urizen has tamped down the risk of open conflict. Members of the Synod have been attempting to heal the rift, with more positive sentiments emerging from both sides. The League Assembly endorsed [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_71|Isaia Pavone di Sarvos' statement of principle]] calling for people to ''"enjoy the fruits of both nations’ labour together, now and in years to come"'' with a greater majority. If the Urizen Assembly were a little less enthusiastic about [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_163|Halkyon of the Myriad Stream's complimentary statement]] that is perhaps understandable given the circumstances.

Where the two sides have managed to cooperate, the results have been impressive. Projects like [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]] and [[Damming the Doubt]] demonstrate what can be achieved for both nations when they work together. During the Autumn Equinox, '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''' the [[Senator]] for Spiral, proposed a timely [[appraisal]] to build on these successes by looking "for ways to draw on the best of League innovation and Urizen wisdom to bolster Spiral's prosperity." The Senate agreed, and as requested [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] was dispatched to explore [[opportunity|opportunities]] in the south-eastern Empire.

As is ever the case in Spiral, the work is made more difficult by the omnipresent yoke of the {{Black Plateau}}. The malignant force that squats at the centre of the [[territory]] exacerbates every bad feeling, every doubt, and if not checked seeps into the spirit of anyone who spends time in the territory. Urizen ingenuity in the form of [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] has helped blunt its effects, at least in the remaining [[spire|spires]] and in the settlements of the League, but the rocky land between settlements remains difficult and dangerous.

Fleets, businesses, military units and farms are all suffering particularly badly from the effects of the {{Black Plateau}}. There's precious little point in trying to help farms, since there are so few of them, but it is clear that one of the simplest ways to boost the Prosperity of Spiral might be to find an approach that could mitigate the problems that the other resources are suffering.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBLeague.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
==Situation in Spiral==
* '''Relations between the League citizens, and remaining Urizen citizens, are becoming easier
Some have compared the city of Apulian with [[Temeschwar]] - a League city with a similar past in that it combines [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Wisdom]] with League [[Ambition]]. While the Plateau remains a problem, recent developments have gone some way towards helping bolster the prosperity of Spiral. The creation of the [[Road_out_of_nowhere#Southern_Skyways|Bridge of the Air]] has seen several smaller "skyways" link isolated spires and settlements, ease passage through more difficult areas, and greatly improve trade between and through the mountains. The completion of [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]], the grand highway that runs through southern Spiral and links [[Mareave]] to the rest of the Empire, has likewise done wonders for the wealth of the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] in particular.

Naomi is the ideal choice to try to bring League and Urizen minds together to work on the problem. She always focuses on finding the most diplomatic possible solution to the problems she is dispatched to examine. She is known to be adroit at identifying options that are best placed to satisfy the concerns of the people affected though she tends to concentrate on the best possible solution to a problem rather than the cheapest or the most efficient.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBUrizen.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
The timing is also apposite - work on the [[Construct_Barossa_University_of_Dramaturgical_Arts|new College of the Dramaturgical Arts]] is underway, but the high costs involved have meant progress is slow. The College should prove a valuable boon for the territory, especially for those interested in the arts of [[Dramaturgy]], provided some way can be found to fund the development.

There are several areas, then, that Naomi has explored. The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies just to the south of Spiral and has recently become a "protectorate" of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - a people known for their love of trade and enthusiasm for wealth who are already invested in the Empire. The city of Apulian is expanding and growing in leaps and bounds, clearly benefitting from the fusion of Urizeni and League magical lore. The spires of the highlands are rich in magical understanding, crystal mana, and magical metals.

==Night Sailing==
* '''Building a specialised dock in Apulian would remove the penalties suffered by Imperial fleets in Spiral'''
* '''It would also provide benefits to Spiral fleets engaged in espionage, scouting, and smuggling'''
* '''It could serve as a refuge for an Imperial navy'''
* '''It would bring more maritime trade into Apulian and increase taxation by 2 thrones a season'''

The city of Apulian is a bustling port with an eclectic feel. It grew slowly over the years, but the infusion of settlers, first the Grendel and then the League have ushered in two major waves of expansion. Now the docks are extensive, but syncretised, merging many different styles of architecture, Imperial and otherwise. Trade has grown with it, with more ships from foreign ports as well as vessels from Highguard and the Brass Coast seen entering the harbour.

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Obsidian Shipyard'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 35 wains of weirwood, 25 wains of mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver, 180 crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets taking a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action
* Raises the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sarcophan port
* Lowers the level of investment in Spiral for fleets trading with any Sumaah or Commonwealth port
* Provides [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] to Imperial navies
* Increases taxation by two thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Increasing the costs to 85 weirwood, 50 mithril, 200 ingots of weltsilver and 405 crowns would increase the ''benefits'' to fleets to two ranks rather than one and increase the taxation by five thrones a season</td></tr>
</td></tr>
</table></div>

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''</big>Ambitious Statuary</big>'''<p>While the statue of the Sailor is integrated into the Obsidian Shipyards, it is not a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos. On the other hand, Ambition is a virtue and there's no reason it ''couldn't'' be a rival to the Colossus of Sarvos... All it would need is a little vision, some engineering know-how to scale it up a little, and a large amount of white granite.</p>

Whoever commissions the Obsidian Shipwrights could choose to increase the costs by 50 white granite, 25 mithril, and 225 crowns, and add an extra six months to the construction. The Sailor would then be a massive figure, gazing indulgently down on the docks and towering over the city of Apulian. Another wonder of the world! This would increase the level of investment in Spiral's fleets by another rank, fleets engaged in trade with Sarcophan or [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] actions would gain a total of two ranks. It would also increase the taxation by five thrones rather than two and further cement Apulian as a rival to Sarvos, as well as a centre of dramaturgical excellence.

One of the Urizen dramaturgists, incidentally, points out that whether a giant statue is built or not is besides the point because they argue that instead of the Sailor, the best choice for a statue on the Obsidian Shipwrights is [[the Witch]] who represents mysteries, common sense, and [[Prosperity]]. There's no reason that whoever commissions the construction couldn't specify that the statue should be of the Witch instead of the Sailor - either would work fine (other personae would be too dissonant with obfuscation to complement the work).</box></div>
The looming presence of {{Black Plateau}} remains the biggest impediment to further expansion of the trade. Until recently, moving goods and passengers across the Bay of Catazar by sail was preferable to travel under the Plateau's sinister gaze. The creation of Curstag's Way, complete with rest stops infused with mithril, made it easier to move goods by land in the territory. Could a similar solution benefit the Apulian docks?

While [[Spiral#The Block|the Block]] protects any structure properly infused with [[mithril]], that's little comfort to ship's crews. Among some of the first people to arrange an appointment with Naomi when she arrived in Apulian were a loose association of ship owners and merchant traders supported by members of the Purple Sail ''sodality''. While most were League citizens, there were a handful of Urizen interests represented as well as some [[Sarcophan Delves|Sarcophan]] and a merchant from [[Mareave#Beoaridh|Beoraidh]]. All were keen to find a way to ameliorate the effects of the Plateau on shipping.

Much discussion between various experts ensues, but in the end it is the seagoing expertise of Danilo di Tassato, a former gondolier and reckoner, and an Urizeni [[seer]], Procopius of the Shadow Moon that provides the answer. Between them they have developed a way to infuse [[mithril]] and [[weltsilver]] into the hulls and sails of ships to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}} by wrapping the vessel in whispers of shadow pulled from the Night realm. According to Procopius, it works because the enchantments woven into the ship make it harder for the {{Black Plateau}} to "see" the vessel, which has some rather disturbing implications. Regardless of how the magic works, a night-time trip across the bay in Danilo's converted [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumboat Sarcophan Bumboat] is enough to prove to Naomi and her team that the approach is undeniably effective.

The demonstration draws interest from many, including the Sarcophan ''College of Silent Voices'' and the League orcs of the [[Pebbles_drawn_from_a_heap#The_Circle_of_Black_Sand|Circle of Black Sand]]. Working together produces an ambitious proposal that might see Apulian eventually rival [[Sarvos]] as a seat of trade. The Obsidian Shipwrights would be an area of the docks dedicated both to building trading vessels, and refitting existing vessels with mithril traceries to protect them from the {{Black Plateau}}. A centrepiece of the construction would be a large mithril inlaid statue of the [[The_Mountebank#The_Sailor|Sailor]]. This raises a few eyebrows - the Sailor is a specific version of [[the Mountebank]] in [[dramaturgy]] associated with suspicious gifts, good times, and trouble. Yet they are also an excellent fit for magic that hides folk from unfriendly eyes. It would in no way rival the [[Sarvos#The_Colossus_of_Sarvos|Colossus of Sarvos]]... but it might send a message about the Ambitions of the people of Apulian.

The shipyards would remove the penalty suffered by fleets in Spiral due to the presence of the {{Black Plateau}}. However, the benefits go further than that. The Night magic would suffuse fleets based in the territory, allowing them to move quickly and quietly, making them excellent spies and smugglers. Every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank bonus whenever they undertake a [[Fleet#Scouting|scouting]] action. Such vessels would also be well received in the Sarcophan Delves, providing the same bonus to any [[Fleet#Trading|trading]] action with the Delves - both the [[Foreign_ports#Sarcophan|city itself]], the [[Foreign ports#Betovering|Betovering docks]] but also the less accessible, satellite ports allowing improved access to the medicines of ''Moeraskriden'' or the contraband of ''Schedalhaven''.

Sadly the approach is not completely without drawbacks - the obfuscation provided by the lingering Night magics would inevitably cause consternation in Sumaash and Commonwealth ports. Both nations are sticklers for the rule of law, with little time for smugglers. The suspicion that such a vessel would be sure to arouse means every [[fleet]] based in Spiral, both League and Urizen, would receive a one rank penalty whenever they undertake any trading action with a port controlled by either nation.

This focus on swift, subtle vessels with low draughts means the Shipwrights would be unsuitable for creating an [[Imperial navy]]. Built in harmony with the magics coursing through Apulian, however, the Obsidian Shipwrights would provide a safe haven for warships - it would provide the [[Shipyard#Refuge|refuge]] benefit to a navy that docked in Apulian, where the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] provided further protection.

On which subject...

==Mellow Mists==
<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><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Palace of Mists'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification Upgrade</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 wains of white granite, 240 crowns, a year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Improves the fortification at Apulian to rank two
* Forces attacking the region from the sea (such as [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive|shore offensive]] or the equivalent) suffer a 20% penalty to VPs
* Improves taxation by 5 thrones a season
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Naomi's proposal would upgrade the fortification at Apulian to rank two'''
* '''Forces using shore offensive or equivalent orders would suffer a twenty percent penalty to VPs'''
* '''Bolstering the defences would increase taxation by five thrones a season, offsetting some of the increased upkeep'''
The sea is the lifeblood of Apulian, but it brings with it additional threats. The [[Grendel]] have demonstrated their ruthless capacity to seize Imperial ports with their recent [[To ruin|attack on Elos]]. The [[Children of Wrecks]] have been [[Red_skies|defeated but not destroyed]]. The [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] warships that [[A beacon of smoke|burnt Siroc]] are still out there. Apulian is protected by the [[Spiral#Apulian|Palace of Apulian]] but there is a limit to what it can achieve, especially against a maritime threat.

League engineers and Urizen architects have worked together to address the problem that is the flip-side of a lot of Apulian's prosperity. Their proposal is to build on the foundation laid by Salt Lord Kaliact. The beautiful, well-fortified palace takes pride of place near the docks but there is more to expanding it's defences than simply building its walls up. Part of their inspiration comes, unsurprisingly, from the [[Sarvos#The_Great_Chain|Great Chain of Sarvos]], a mighty series of walls, towers, and barracks, coupled with great iron chains attached to blocks of white granite that can be raised or lowered to provide a serious obstacle to naval forces attempting a shore offensive aimed at capturing [[Sarvos#Cigno|Cigno]]. Part of the defence incorporates a similar set of obstacles, but thanks to the ingenuity of both Urizen and the League there is more to their plan.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sadogua001d.webp|caption=Heralds of [[Sadogua]] have offered advice on ways to weave Night magic around Apulian.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
The [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is a useful [[ritual]] that weaves wards of obfuscation and misdirection through an area of [[Region_qualities#Marsh|marshes]]. While [[Night magic]] is generally of [[War_magic#Night_Magic|limited usefulness]] in a war, the [[Night magic#Resonance|resonance]] of [[Night_magic#Obfuscation|obfuscation]] presents several opportunities to protect against assault. Urizen Seers calculate that it would be possible to permanently tap into some of the rich veins of Night magic that now permeate the city, and focus it across the coast of Apulian.

Keen eyes study the effectiveness of the walls of mist that surround [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#The_Lyceum|the Lyceum]], and the involvement of the eternal [[Sadogua]] in protecting that place. Heralds of the ''Black Sloth'' have been sought out - some Urizen make the long trek to the Marches to put some of those celebrating the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail|wassail]] there on the spot - and it seems that the ''Globbersnotch'' has provided some advice on ways to make the most of the magic in Apulian. While being a little shifty about Night magic and its relationship to the sea (recent [[historical research]] into the nature of eternals associated with the sea might provide some insight here).

Under the proposal, the Palace of Apulian would become the Palace of Mists, capable of calling up confusing fogs to misdirect invading ships and even armies attempting to attack Apulus. It would become a fully effective level two fortification, and in addition, any force attacking the region from the sea - any navy and armies using shore offensive - would suffer a 20% penalty to VPs.

The palace would require 80 wains of white granite and 30 thrones in labour costs, take a year to complete. It would increase the upkeep of the Palace by an additional 10 thrones each season, however, the presence of such a powerful defence protecting the port and the ships using it would boost trade in Spiral. As a result the taxation of the territory would increase by five thrones a season, offsetting half of the increased upkeep.
==Swords Against Darkness==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' None</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Requires a statement of principle in support of raising swords against the darkness to pass the League and the Urizen Assembly in the same season.
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the Venture - Swords Against Darkness - available to League, Urizen military and Dawnish military units
</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: HotPink;">'''Swords Against Darkness'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Venture Type:''' Questing</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' The League, Urizen and Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Duration:''' One year
<tr><td>'''Rewards:'''
* A standard military unit would receive 3 mana crystals and 2 liao
* A military unit that is enchanted or upgraded will receive proportionately more
* A rank 6 or higher military unit (from upgrades or rituals) will receive a Circlet of Fallen Snow as part of the rewards
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Duration becomes open-ended if supported by military units with a total effective strength of 2000 for at least three of the four seasons
* If that happens the taxation of Spiral will increase by 6 thrones and the penalty of military units from the {{Black Plateau}} will be removed
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The League and Urizen national assemblies could use a statement of principle to create a new questing venture in Spiral'''
* '''If enough military units undertake the venture over the next year then it will increase taxation by 6 thrones a season and remove the penalty on Spiral military units'''

One of the challenges in Urizen is that after three decades of war, and the chaos that followed, and the influence of the {{Black Plateau}}, the places between spires and outside the walls of Apulian and [[Spiral#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]], are filled with unknown dangers. Of course there are dangers in many of the less travelled parts of the Empire, but Spiral is particularly afflicted.

[[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#The_Lost|The Lost]] is the common term for those folk whose minds and spirits have been undone by the baleful glare of the plateau. They are not the only threat however - there are still remnants of the [[Druj]] insurgents and [[Grendel]] invaders, small groups of orcs belonging to neither nation hiding out in the wilds. There are also rumours of disciples of [[sword scholar|Sulemaine i Taziel]] hiding in the nooks and crannies of Spiral. These former sword scholars have decisively split with the Empire and represent a real threat to those who remain loyal. All in addition to the usual threats posed by dangerous creatures from the realms, unliving horrors, bandits and outlaws, and allegedly even some rogue ushabti.

Most [[spire|spires]] are sufficiently well-defended to be protect them against incursions and the city of Apulian is far too large to be threatened. As a result, many inhabitants of Spiral have been able to ignore these threats - the League can go about their business in Apulian, while the spires communicate via the heliopticon, and keep to the most well-trod routes when travelling. As a result, thus far, it has not been a pressing problem.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: right;">
[[file:Assembly_League.png]]
[[file:Assembly_Urizen.png]]
</div>
Just because the threat is not urgent does not mean it is not important however. The Urizeni are having to employ extra sentinels to keep their spires safe - and can only travel abroad in large well-protected groups. League merchants moving cargo down the Great Apulian Way are struggling to hire enough guards to protect the caravans. Everywhere you look, there is a need for competent warriors to keep loyal Imperial citizens safe. To many that's just life in Spiral - but to Naomi, it's a subtle but pervasive tax on the Prosperity of everyone who lives here.

After a lot of work persuading some of the wealthier Apulian merchants and key [[arbiter|arbiters]], Naomi is able to persuade them to back an attempt to solve the problem. The solution is simple enough, and for once, Naomi 's idea requires relatively little upfront investment. If the Empire can muster enough military units to directly attack the threats in Spiral, then that the inhabitants of the territory would be able to get on top of the problem. If that could be achieved, it would only need a little support on an ongoing basis to keep the threats under control. Naomi likens it to weeding an overgrown garden - it requires a lot more effort to get the weeds under control than it does to keep it that way.

If her proposal is successful, then it wouldn't just help to make Spiral safer, it would boost Prosperity and taxation in the territory and free up numerous [[sentinel|sentinels]], and [[bravo|bravos]] to find work elsewhere, which would make efforts by military units based in the territory more profitable. The challenge is logistics - getting enough volunteers for the dangerous work won't be easy.

For that to happen, will require a suitably worded Statement of Principle in support of the [[venture]] in both the League and the Urizen Assembly. If both passed in the same season, the proposal would draw enough support from both League and Urizen backers to be viable. That would create a new questing venture, Swords Against Darkness, which would be available to League and Urizen military units (and Dawn since it's more trouble than it's worth to keep their glory hunters away from a quest). With the backing of wealthy patrons, the venture would provide 3 mana crystals and two liao to any standard military unit taking part. A military unit with at least 200 effective strength (from upgrades or rituals) would receive a [[Circlet of Falling Snow]] as part of their rewards. The potential returns aren't great - but of course the Senate could always apply the Guerdon to the expedition.

The venture would last for a year - but if at least 2000 strength of military units undertook the venture on three seasons out of the four, then the venture would remain available for the foreseeable future. If that happened, then the taxation of the territory would permanently increase by 6 thrones a season and the current penalty to military units from the {{Black Plateau}} would be permanently removed.

Given the plan needs the support of enough military units over the coming year, there's a brief discussion of whether it would be easier to just send an army to do it. It wouldn't be a cheap option - armies operating in Spiral suffer badly, but the idea is abandoned when the real cost becomes clear. Sending in an army to attack hundreds or more enemies is almost certain to rouse the {{Black Plateau}} still further. Dozens of small scale operations to hunt down dangerous individuals will be fine - an attempt to have thousands of soldiers comb the mountain side would not...
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=LeagueDrawing.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of the League are adept at finding ingenious solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems.|width=250}}</div>
==Spiral and Zenith==
* '''Building a road to connect southern Spiral with Zenith could bring significant benefits
* '''The special ushabti created at the Crucible of Fate would work well in the Legacy
Since it was recovered from the [[Druj]], the Urizen territory of Zenith has seen significant investment in its prosperity. Between the restoration of the [[Zenith#Proceris|Golden Cascade]] and the establishment of the [[Zenith#Crucible of Fate|Crucible of Fate]], great wealth has accrued to the spires north of Spiral. Some of that wealth has filtered through to the spires of Spiral - via the [[Zenith#Bridge_of_the_Air|Bridge of the Air]] in particular - but Naomi believes that more could be done. She is very interested in fostering more communication between the arcanists and [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] of Zenith and their opposite numbers in the city of Apulian.

At the moment, while the Bridge of the Air provides benefits to the people of Spiral, the ''skyway'' is mostly restricted to the northern and western mountains. However, the success of [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way|Curstag's Way]] presents obvious opportunities. The highway is already proving to be a success, both for its ease of use and the well-protected hostelries along its length. After consulting with [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Lucia, Sheeva, Tressida and Croilus]], Naomi proposes to build on that success - much as the they intimated might be the case when [[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|the four first proposed the new road]].

The Grendel have laid in cursory highways between Apulian and the [[Legacy]]; Naomi suggests that it would be possible to expand those roads, and most importantly the stopping points along their length, up through the [[Spiral#The_Passes|Twilight Gate]] into [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]], there to connect with a major artery of the Bridge of the Sky connecting the farms around the Golden Cascade to the Crucible of Fate. Running through Apstrus and Ossuary, the route would give [[Spiral#Screed|Screed]] a wide berth but would provide a useful trade connection not only for Apulian, but for the spires both in Spiral and Zenith, and potentially to the Imperial orcs in Mareave as well.

===Northern Way===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; 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;">'''Northern Way'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulian, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 wains of white granite, 30 wains of mithril, 240 Crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Master of Rings commissions the road 6 wains of white granite will be provided by League citizens</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' If the Urizen Assembly supports the road with a suitably worded statement of principle, 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Raises the level of investment in Zenith by one providing 36 rings for each business in the territory
* Removes the penalty to businesses in Spiral from the {{Black Plateau}}
* Enables the Crucible of Fate to boost the output of the Legacy and upgrade personal resources
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A great work investing in roads between Apulian and Zenith would boost businesses in Zenith'''
* '''It would also remove the penalty imposed on businesses by the {{Black Plateau}}'''
Naomi isn't worried about what the road is called, apart from to note with amusement that the chances it will be called the ''Northern Calumo-Sheeva-Nightshadow Highway'' are vanishingly low. Whoever commissions it will determine how it is referred to in official documents. It builds on the success of Curstag's Way, providing not only a safe and reliable route through the lowlands but plenty of specifically established stopping places for caravans and travellers protected by the power of [[Spiral#The_Block|the block]].

The costs will be greater than those associated with Curstag's Way, as it must pass through much more difficult terrain. The immediate benefits will accrue not in Spiral, but in Zenith. Easing trade between Urizen and the League allows the benefits of cargos brought into Apulian to be felt in Zenith, and creates new markets for Urizen goods - especially books and magic items. This would represent another level of investment in Zenith, over and above that provided by the Bridge of the Sky.

Securing a second - and arguably more lucrative - trade route through Spiral to Apulian would also provide significant benefits to businesses and farms in the territory. The impact of the {{Black Plateau}} is particularly acute on those moving cargoes overland through the territory. With regular stopping places, and a road to speed travel, this impact would be almost entirely mitigated. The penalty to businesses from the plateau would be cancelled as long as the roads were operable.

The project is expensive, but the costs could be cut slightly if the project has the clear backing of prominent citizens of Urizen and the League. If the Master of Rings commissions the road, 6 wains of white granite will be provided by enthusiastic League citizens. If the Urizen Assembly passes a suitably worded statement of principle in support of the new road then 4 wains of mithril will be provided by Urizen spires.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Urizen.jpg|align=right|caption=The people of Urizen have rebuilt Zenith in the wake of the [[Druj]] occupation. Their mastery of the form and function of the ''ushabti'' goes from strength to strength.|width=250}}</div>
===Dark Depths===
* '''Completing the Northern Way could enable the Architect of the Crucible to employ members of League artisan guilds'''
* '''Employing more artisans would enable the Architect to boost production of the legacy'''
* '''It would also restore and extend the ability to upgrade personal resources'''

The road would obviously run past the Legacy; while the raw mithril here shelters the miners from the dank miasma of the plateau while they are working it still requires the Senate to pay a significant dividend to attract those workers to the location. With an easy route between Zenith and Spiral, however, another opportunity presents itself.

At the moment, the [[Architect of the Crucible]] is providing [[Architect_of_the_Crucible#Miracle_And_Wonder|specialist ushabti]] to the [[Brilliant Star]] in Redoubt. These ushabti are designed to operate in the deadly light that infuses the mines, a legacy of [[Cold Sun]]. Rather than support the Brilliant Star, the Architect of the Crucible, could instead create a workforce of ushabti infused with weirwood and mithril could to help operate the Legacy. That would boost the output of the Legacy by three wains of mithril at the cost, but production at the Star would drop by the same amount.

What is really needed is a way to expand the output of the Crucible of Fate. As is common with Urizeni structures, the facility is large and spacious; the problem is getting enough skilled artisans to work the forges. Urizen has never been a very populous nation, and there simply aren't enough artisans available to make it worthwhile running the forges night and day.

However there are more than enough League artisans in the various guilds that have moved to Apulian who are eagerly looking for work. If the Architect of the Crucible invited them to travel to the Crucible of Fate, then they could quickly learn how to make ushabti and once they had mastered the arts it would significantly improve the Architect's capacity to create ushabti.

If the Northern Way is completed, then at any time the Architect of the Crucible could email {{plot}} and indicate that they are overseeing the creation of ushabti for the Legacy rather than the Brilliant Star. That would reduce the output of the Star by 3 wains and increase the output of the Legacy by 3 wains.

Alternatively the Architect could email {{plot}} to indicate that they are inviting League artisans to come to the Crucible to learn how to make ushabti. With the benefit of so many additional artisans, the output of the Crucible would double - the Architect could support the Legacy and the Brilliant Star with, increasing the output of both bourse resources.

In addition, the extra workforce would restore the ability of the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade personal resources. With Spiral back in Imperial control and League magicians receiving training in the creation, use and maintenance of ushabti, it would be possible for the Architect of the Crucible to upgrade League or Urizen personal resources in Spiral.

Once each season during [[downtime]], the Architect of the Crucible could select a single Urizen or League character with a mine, forest, herb garden, farm, or business in [[Morrow]], [[Redoubt]], [[Spiral]] or [[Zenith]], and commission the artisans at the Crucible to create bespoke ushabti for them. This would upgrade their personal resource by one level at a cost of three thrones for each level it is being upgraded to (so to upgrade a standard resource costs six thrones, while a level three resource would require twelve thrones to upgrade to level four). This is in place of all other costs - no [[mithril]],[[white granite]], or [[weirwood]] is required.

Of course the Architect of the Crucible might not want to share the secrets of ushabti with members of the League. That would be a decision that was down to them. But in either case, nothing could happen until the proposed Northern Way was completed.

==The Dark Mesa==
* '''The opportunity to build a fortification designed to enclose the {{Black Plateau}} is still viable'''
* '''The proposal for Oblivion's Edge would mitigate the impact of fighting in the territory for a season'''
* '''As long as the Block remains in tact it would also reduce the impact of the Plateau on life in inhabited areas of Spiral'''
* '''This proposal completely replaces the previous details for the creation of Oblivion's Edge'''

<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Oblivion's Edge'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' The {{Black Plateau}}, Screed, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 white granite, 20 mithril and 300 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 4 seasons</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 10 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a level one fortification in Screed
* Removes the threat from naifs in the territory
* Would help to defend against any direct attack on the {{Black Plateau}}
* Provides spartan accommodation for the Oblivion Sentinel
* Would prevent the {{Black Plateau}} being roused by a single season of fighting in the territory
* Raises taxation by 4 thrones a season
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* If the Imperial Senate build the fortification and change the position to a League and Urizeni national appointment then the title would gain donations worth 5 crystal fire each year and 20 crowns per season
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
As part of their work to assess the threats present in Spiral and suggest ways to counter them, members of the [[Vigilance]] Assembly suggested the [[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#Oblivion's_Edge|construction of a fortification to enclose the {{Black Plateau}}]]. Their goal was to wall off access to the area, to prevent people blindly wandering into the most dangerous part of the territory, but also to prevent any opportunity for malicious actors - such as the Druj or the Grendel - from deliberately rousing it to violence by directly attacking it, as [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_(Spiral)|the Iron Helms did so dramatically five years ago]].

Of most interest to Naomi is the idea that the fortification might include mithril laced into the walls to try and contain some of the fell energies seeping out of the mesa. She has been charged with finding ways to improve the Prosperity of Spiral, but one of the first tenets of the Virtue enjoins people to "enjoy the fruits of your labour". It is harder than it should be to enjoy life in Spiral with the fearful shadow of the {{Black Plateau}} hanging over the territory. The more that can be done to contain it - the better people's lives will be.

Thus she is interested in the proposal to fortify Screed, because of the potential it offers to contain some of the fell energies leaching from the heights. The effects are small, but combined with the protections provided by [[Spiral#The_Block|the Block]] it would make life in Apulian and the lofty spires in the mountains much more liveable. At least it will for as long as the great mithril structure remains in good working order, which should be fine provided relations with the Cinion rebels who control the Block remain stable.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ylenwe001.webp|caption=[[Ylenwe]], the Dove of the Morning, offers some protection from the malign influence that fills the air in Spiral.|align=left|width=200}}</div>
Thus, Naomi has spent time revising the original proposals to bring them up to date with the latest techniques. The fortification would not be cheap - it would require 80 wains of white granite and 20 mithril and take a year to build, but now that the Empire has given [[Ylenwe]] amity, Zie is prepared to shield the workers from the Dark Eye's baleful glare so the labour costs would be no higher than normal

The fortification would offer a number of benefits; it turns out the area is not as defensible as first assumed, but the bastion would make the region much harder to take (the region would require 20VPs to capture) and provide a base for a garrison to patrol Urizen. That would be enough to dissuade the Druj or the Grendel staging a lightning raid on the {{Black Plateau}} to try and trigger it.

The mithril spines incorporated into the structure would slow the flow of energy to and from the Plateau, That wouldn't completely remove the risks involved in fighting in the territory, it wouldn't even reduce the losses inflicted on armies, but it would mean that the plateau would not be triggered by a single season of campaigning in the territory - and it would mean there might be an [[opportunity]] to prevent an eruption if the fighting went on longer than a season. Far from ideal maybe, but still a lot safer than the current situation.

When the fortification was first put forward, there was a suggestion that building it would help to reassure League and Urizen citizens in Spiral that the Empire was not ignoring the dangers posed by the {{Black Plateau}}. Interest in the work of the [[Oblivion Sentinel]] has only grown since then and after some effort Naomi is able to convince various League guilds to offer 20 crowns in support of the position - to match the five crystal fire provided by the Deathless Caves - but on the proviso that the title becomes a League and Urizeni national appointment - (like the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]]). It's not these League businesses particularly want to control the title, but they want to know their senators have a say in who holds the position.

The real gains though are the improvements in quality of life for the folks living Apulian as well as the spires, citadels and temples that dot the mountains. Most of these structures are now protected by mithril filigree that shields people from the worst of the {{Black Plateau}} while they are indoors. Crucially as the density of buildings in Apulian continues to rise, people have noticed that some of the narrower streets are now benefitting in the same way.

If the fortification were built - then it wouldn't just protect Screed, it would ameliorate the impacts of the {{Black Plateau}} on anyone who is protected by the novel architectural techniques developed by Urizeni magicians. It would do nothing for the wilderness - that would remain a treacherous and dangerous landscape, one only the hardy or the foolhardy might contemplate -there is [[Damming_the_Doubt#The_Aid_of_the_Dove|a complimentary offer from Ylenwe]] that ''might'' be able help with that problem. But the fortification would mean that most citizens living in Spiral could go about their business without having to endure the constant pressure the Plateau creates while they were indoors.

That would be invaluable. Naomi calculates that taxation from the territory would rise by four thrones a season, but the real benefits would be to the everyday life of the people who live in Spiral. Their capacity to enjoy the fruits of their labours would be much improved.
==Further Reading==
* [[Spiral]]
* [[Ylenwe]]

* [[The moth for the star]] - 387YE Autumn wind of fortune, relating to dramaturgical eccentricities in Spiral
* [[Daybreak in Spiral]] - 387YE Summer wind of fortune, discussing events in Spiral as a whole
* [[Nightfall in Apulian]]- 387YE Summer wind of fortune discussing events in the city of Apulian
* [[Damming the Doubt]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune discussing options and concerns related to Solen's Doubt
* [[Our eyes in Spiral]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune summarising the situation in Spiral
* [[Million_miles_of_water#The_Way_Less_Taken|Million miles of water]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune introducing the opportunity to flood the Doubt

Series of dreams

2026-02-09T22:46:20Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* A Grim Harvest */ Adding a space in

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:381YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<ic>"The ... the Empress of all goats?"

"Yes." Hubert's voice was flat. He was not amused.

"But ... the ''Empress'' of ''all goats''?"

"Yes. The Empress. Of all goats."

"But ... what ''all'' goats?"

Hubert rolled his eyes and mentally began to compose a rude limerick about his guest.</ic>
==The Empty Skies==
* '''The stars are hidden across most of the Empire and nearby territories, making it difficult to perform scrying magic and exerting an odd influence on those of the [[naga]] lineage.'''
As with [[Darkest_night|previous seasons]], the night skies over most the Empire (and several adjacent territories including [[Mournwold]], [[Liathaven]], and [[the Barrens]]) remain empty of stars. [[Naga]] living in those territories are subject to the shroud's peculiar [[Darkest_night#The_serpent_is_more_crafty|influence]] ... and as [[Casinea]] (the location of Anvil) is still affected, any naga attending the summit will still begin to feel their [[Naga#Naga#Roleplaying_naga|natural urge]] toward subtlety and secretiveness is greatly strengthened. ('''OOC note:''' players are urged to read the [[Darkest night]] wind of fortune from last event to refresh themselves as the details of this effect and bear in mind that the skies directly over Anvil also appear normal for some complicated and subtle reason).

The night skies are clear over [[Morrow]], [[Spiral]], [[Redoubt]], and [[Skarsind]]. While the "empty sky" phenomenon has been removed from [[Zenith]] as well, [[Urizen]] inhabitants report that a [[Drawing the Penumbral Veil|Penumbral Veil]] has recently settled over the territory - no doubt conjured by the [[Druj]] invaders. ('''OOC Note:''' Naga living in those territories are free of the odd influence ... but obviously coming to the event means they will slowly start to fall under its sway again for the duration of their stay).

==Calm After the Storm==
* '''The supernatural storm that cloaked the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]] has abated.'''
The Icy Crag of the Eternal Storm is a [[College of Magic|college]] dedicated to the study of [[Summer magic]]. In Winter 380YE, just after construction was completed, a rivalry between [[Cathan Canae]] and [[Meraud]] (eternals of the Summer realm) boiled over, resulting in a [[Castle of wind and sky|terrible supernatural storm]] that cloaked the college regardless of what the weather was elsewhere, dramatically increasing the costs to run it.

The night after the Summer solstice, the magical storm ended as suddenly as it had blown up. It is believed that the [[Archmage]] of Summer negotiated with Cathan Canae to rescind her curse, and that some form of contest will take place to determine who is worthy to be the patron of the college. By all accounts, the Summer eternals are taking this challenge quite seriously. It is likely that whoever wins the right to serve as patron, they will want to put their own stamp on the college, possibly by offering assistance to the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness|Master]] of the college in researching certain types of ritual.

Regardless of who wins, it is also very likely that after a while one eternal or another will be dissatisfied with the current arrangement, and seek to challenge the current patron again - but at least a method of resolving the issue of who patronizes the college has been established without any further damage to the walls or the faculty!
{{CaptionedImage|file=Hubert, Chatelaine of the Empress of All Goats.jpg|caption=Hubert Annanovich Gremani. Not shown; Empress of all goats|align=right|width=300}}
==The Empress of all Goats Theatre==
* '''A small theatre has been built by magical creatures in the vale of Veresk. In game terms this is a tiny [[folly]].'''
A fortnight after the Summer Solstice, a gang of twenty ''koboldi'' - the servants of the eternal known in the Empire as [[Adamant|King Adamant]] - arrive in [[Karsk#Veresk|Veresk]] in [[Karsk]]. Their foreman, a slender koboldi with brilliant golden scales, politely informs the bemused boyar and the circle of wise ones that they have been sent by [[Barien]], and request permission to build something they call "The Empress of All Goats Theatre". There is a great deal of confusion, until a sheepish fellow by the name of Hubert Annanovich Gremani admits that he might know something about it all. The ''koboldi'' are delighted to see him - it is for Hubert that they have been engaged to perform their building work.

After an evening of fast-talking, the boyar grudgingly gives the ''koboldi'' permission to enter. Over the next week, working with the supernatural focus and attention to detail for which they are known, they build a small theatre over the site of Hubert's home (the playwright is forced to take shelter at a nearby Navarr wayhouse as the first act of the little draconic heralds is to demolish his home and garden). On the morning of the eighth day, they deliver a small golden key to Hubert, bow politely, and disappear back whence they came.

Built in a vaguely Temeschwari style, the "The Empress of All Goats Theatre" is apparently Hubert's reward for completing a [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. As news spreads of this magical building, interest grows. Rumour suggests Hubert has already received several enquiries about when the first performance will be, presumably meaning that his retirement will be significantly more eventful than he might have perhaps expected.

==The Green Castle==
* '''The Eternal [[Llofir]] continues to claim [[Reikos#Tamarbode|Tamarbode]] in [[Reikos]].'''
Since the eternal Llofir claimed [[Reikos#Tamarbode|Tamarbode]], it has been largely ''terra incognita'' for Imperial citizens. The only part of it that remains accessible to Imperial citizens is the [[mana site]] known as [[Reikos_Spoils_of_War#Tamar.27s_Toes|Tamar's Toes]] - and those responsible for gathering the mana continue to recount eerie stories of their experiences in the forest there. They talk of being watched by peculiar creatures, of their clothes being infested with unfamiliar rusts and moulds, and of the brooding presence of the supernatural fortress that looms over everything.

The fortification itself is a structure - if such a word is appropriate - worthy of note. It grows at the heart of the [[Reikos#The_Sign_of_Tamar|Sign of Tamar]], completely encompassing the powerful Spring [[regio]] there. Its shape does not appear constant - perhaps unsurprising for a castle of living fungus raised by the magic of an eternal. Over the course of each season it ages and changes colour - from a pale bone whiteness at the start of the season to a deep red russet colour at the end - but each Solstice and Equinox it is renewed. It shows no sign of going away.

As before, there is no suggestion that the servants of Llofir have any interest in leaving the magical forest that now fills the region. Both [[Highguard|Highborn]] [[magister|magisters]] and [[Navarr]] [[Navarr_magical_traditions#Vates|vates]] in regions bordering Tamarbode agree that whatever else one might say about Llofir, it is interested in the long game.

==Other Castles==
* '''The Eternal Family of Navarr have raised a Frozen Citadel in Kahraman'''
* '''The Sussivari Frost Coven have raised multiple Dripping Echoes of the Fen in Bregasland'''
Magical fortifications are a powerful weapon in the Empire's arsenal. This season, a keep of black ice was raised above [[Kahraman#Serra Damata|Serra Damata]] in [[Kahraman]]. At the same time, a blanket of fog and whispers settled over [[Bregasland#Grey Fens|Grey Fens]] and [[Bregasland#Ottermire|Ottermire]] in [[Bregasland]]. All three citadels would have offered aid in resisting any potential invasion of these territories by the Jotun. Fortunately, no such attack materialised, and the castles faded back into the magic from which they had been called.

==Ribbon of Embers==
* '''The [[Redoubt#Optarion|Ribbon of Salt]], transformed to a fountain of embers, has sent an explosive burst of [[Night magic]] over [[Redoubt]].'''
The Ribbon of Salt is a famous Spring [[regio]] sited under the waters off the port-spires of [[Redoubt#Visten|Visten]] in [[Redoubt]], known for regular eruptions that took the form of a great waterspout. In the weeks leading up to the Spring Equinox, these explosions became unpredictable, and the eruptions themselves were of a shorter duration, but much more intense and destructive in nature. During the Equinox itself, tremors began to emanate from the submarine regio, alarming seers and stargazers alike with the fear that the Ribbon was building up magical energies at an alarming rate. On the last day of the Equinox, the Ribbon of Salt exploded with immense force.

However, rather than an eruption of raw Spring magic the Ribbon vomited forth a swirling torrent of shadows, embers, flame and whispers; a storm of emotions, half-memories, snatches of strange secrets and wreathing mists. A team of heroic Urizeni had [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|travelled]] to the regio's heart, and [[Align the Celestial Net|realigned]] it to the realm of Night moments before the detonation.

Even though the influence of the ritual normally fades at sunrise, the energies of the regio do not return to Spring. Scholars who study the Ribbon are at a loss to explain what has happened. Some hypothesise that the recent [[Pay_in_blood|weakening]] of Spring regios across the Empire may be to blame, with no easy access to the tumultuous heart of the regio they can do little more than speculate.

Over the months following the Equinox, the regio slowly subsides to the occasional spuming vent of ash and embers. Some of those who live nearby report peculiar dreams and occasional odd phenomena in the water or in the skies, but for the most part the magic appears to have dissipated harmlessly.

Out on the waters of the coast, though, the impact of the Ribbon's eruption is strongest - which is where the [[The_Brass_Coast_military_concerns#The_Freeborn_Storm|Freeborn Storm]] is this season. The ships of the Brass Coast steer clear of the gout of shadow and fire, but they do not avoid the more subtle influence of the pillar of night magic. It warms the blood and sets the heart aflutter, inflaming passions, inspiring intense and unexpected friendships and bitter feuds with equal facility.
===Significance : Ribbon of Embers===
The [[General#Admiral|Admiral]] of the Freeborn Storm navy, and any character whose [[fleet]] was [[Fleet#Supporting_a_Navy|supporting]] the [[navy]] this season, may decide that their character was exposed to the strange, warm winds and the cold embers emitted from the transformed Ribbon of Salt this season.

Any such character benefits from having an additional [[Heroic_skills#Hero|hero point]] (even if they would not normally have hero points) but they also experience a [[roleplaying effect]]: you feel all your emotions much more deeply, and experience a strong desire to ''act''. Passivity and caution feel unnatural and wrong; being bold and confronting things head-on feels ultimately fulfilling.

Both the hero point and the roleplaying effect last until the end of the Summer solstice.

==A Grim Harvest==
Shortly after the Spring Equinox, peculiar eldritch creatures from the realm of Night scuttle out from the shadowy woodlands of [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] in the [[Mournwold|Mourn]], and out of barrows in the chalk of [[Mournwold#Freemoor|Freemoor]]. Scaled and feathered, they bring with them several immense black cauldrons that foam and bubble with vitriolic fluids. Largely ignoring the ongoing war around them, the heralds surround these cauldrons with complex apparatus of iridescent glass and curiously shaped flasks. Then these interlopers prowl among the cold, dead fields where some of the fiercest fighting between Jotun and Empire took place. Where they encounter an unburied corpse, they gather round and carefully harvest the corpse.

The Night heralds only harvest dead [[orc|orcs]], and the occasional [[Feni]]. They come with pitchforks, barbed chains and ichor-sodden bags, pulling half-decomposed corpses and limbs to the bubbling cauldrons and dropping them into the miasmatic brew within. They gather up crow-picked bones, listening carefully to them as if in conversation. These heralds do not seem to be interested in just any dead bodies - they are quite selective - though the standards by which they choose which corpse to claim are unclear. Into the cauldrons go the carcases, to be boiled away to nothing but vapours and fluids, distilled into something otherworldly.

The heralds do not touch a single Imperial corpse. They steer well clear of soldiers on both sides. A few are willing to talk, and claim that they are servants to the great eternals [[Murit]] and [[Soghter]]. They are seeking the fundamental essence of the experience of ending. The cauldrons and alembics are all part of this effort, rendering down the flesh and bones of the dead to catch those brief final moments when life transitions to death. They say that their work is entirely of the body - that it is nothing to do with "ephemera" (presumably they mean souls) - they only catch the echoes of memory still left in the meat. This, they say, is a key part of the creation of the Azoth - though what the Azoth is, they remain hesitant to discuss. Some express a brief disappointment that they are not allowed to take Imperial bodies - such a lack will inevitably shape how the Azoth develops.

Their peculiar, grisly work complete, the heralds steal away with their cauldrons as stealthily as they arrived, leaving only a scattering of circular patches where the black kettles rested where no grass will grow.

==Imperial Lore==
Two new rituals enter Imperial Lore: [[Hammers of the Brilliant Shore]] (held over from Winter), and the challengingly problematic [[curse]] [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]]. Any character who is eligible to master a new ritual can master one of these rituals by the usual means, and they can be cast without being mastered using the normal rules for ritual casting.

Rules update 2026

2026-02-03T17:39:58Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Reasoning */ Shuffling an R

==Overview==
Every year we carry out a review of some part of the game looking to see what we improve. This process of continuous review allows us to keep the game fresh and ensures we remain happy that we're running the very best game we can. We don't have many updates this year, but the ones we do have are important for the players who are affected. This page summarizes and explains the changes so that players can identify and understand the changes easily.

We try to include a section after each update to explain the reasoning behind the change, as well as providing an in-character rationale for what has changed where appropriate. As ever, it is important to remember that the rationale is there purely to provide a way for characters to explain any changes, it's not an actual plot development.

==Fortifications and Citadels==
We've changed the rules for fortifications so that a single [[fortification]] now has a bastion which makes the region it is in harder to take, and a garrison of troops who will protect the territory. The new rules replace the old rules for fortifications, and the previous rules for citadels have been completely dropped - they no longer apply at all, as they are completely superseded by the new rules.

===Reasoning===
The simplicity of the original rules published for fortifications contained a number of problems. It was hard to create convincing narratives around the idea that a large fortification on one side of a territory would somehow protect the entire territory. Not least because it would do that without inflicting any damage on invading armies (unless they attacked the fort directly). Fortifications tended to fall down almost immediately if they were attacked, encouraging players to try and build them as far from the front lines as possible, neither of which is what we want from a game design point of view.

Last year, we attempted to resolve those difficulties by creating citadels, originally intending them to replace fortifications. However, because it made no sense to put a citadel in the location that the forts were in, that proved impossible. Having realised that error late, we opted for a partial implementation and ran the new rules alongside the old rules. That didn't work either, because citadels were simply not as good as fortifications.

So this winter, we've gone back and started again with a fresh set of rules for fortifications. The new rules mean that the fortification helps to make a region more difficult to take - which is one of the things we wanted forts to achieve. They are also much more resilient, meaning they are more likely to change hands and be captured rather than simply fall down when an army attacks them. Finally, having each fortification include a distinct garrison means that we can be clear in the narrative of a campaign about what is happening (the garrison is sallying forth to attack invaders) while also having the garrison take and inflict damage, reifying the fact that the garrison is fighting the invaders.

Explicitly separating the bastion (the castle that makes the region harder to take) and the garrison (the soldiers who staff the fortification and defend the territory) allows us to reference them directly in the game, both in the narrative and with plot [[opportunity|opportunities]].

===Changes===
* '''Several recent winds of fortune have been updated'''
* '''Many rituals dealing with fortifications have been updated'''
Several recent winds of fortune have been updated to bring them into line with the new rules:

* [[Outside_the_wall#Walls_Against_Wickedness|Outside the wall]] and [[Ward Little Boyar's Welcome|the accompanying Senate motion]] - is now an opportunity to ward the walls of the fortification in Delev.
* [[Golden_magicians_fayre#Frozen_Strength|Golden magicians fayre]] - the Rimebound quality would now affect any mortal fortification in the region, making rituals cast on it more effective.
* [[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#Oblivion's_Edge|Our eyes in Spiral]] - is now an opportunity to build a fortification in Screed to protect and contain the {{Black Plateau}}.
* [[Eight_for_a_wish#Stone_Endures|Eight for a wish]] - has been updated to be an opportunity for the sodality to build fortifications.
* [[The war of thorns and flowers]] - the section introducing citadels has been removed. Attacking vallorn forces will usually target a fortification if the bastion is adjacent to a vallorn heart.
* [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Vigilant_Light|For those in peril on the sea]] - now an opportunity to build a powerful fortification in Oranseri

We've also made changes to many of the rituals that deal with fortifications, either by enchanting them, cursing them, or creating temporary defences. They include:
* [[Stone's Unyielding Defiance]] and [[Ramparts of Ashlar]] provide additional force to the garrison of a fortification
* [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]] and [[Mountain Remembers Its Youth]] affect both the bastion and the garrison, and how their damage is inflicted has been adjusted slightly.
* The ''Wolves of Winter'', a ritual not in Imperial Lore, provides additional strength to the garrison of the enchanted fortification, but ''only'' for purposes of inflicting casualties.
* The four "citadel" rituals - [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]], [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]], and [[The Basalt Citadel]] have been changed significantly, and each provides different benefits.
Some of the rituals have also had their magnitude adjusted.
===Arcane Projections===
* '''Arcane projections that affect fortifications are likely to be impacted by these changes'''
If you have an [[arcane projection]] that targets a fortification, its likely its effects have been impacted by these changes. An email sent to [mailto:rules@profounddecisions.co.uk rules@profounddecisions.co.uk] along with the name of the arcane projection will allow us to update the effects if necessary, and provide you with a replacement physrep at your next event.
{{Rules Updates}}

Bedight in veils

2025-09-08T21:47:12Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Grendel */ Removing Rogue Comma

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Thule]][[Category:Iron Confederacy]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Jotun]]
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=left|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
There are six great powers in the known world, but also innumerable lesser powers. They do not have the power or influence to shake the world with a ''Pax Sarcophan'', nor send shockwaves through the world when they go to war. Yet they are no less important to those with whom they share a border, and for some at least, their ambitions are no less relevant to the Empire. Sometimes diplomatic relations require in-depth analysis; sometimes there is an opportunity to catch one's breath and let the drama move slowly towards the next crisis point.

There are [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to some of these nations - the Suranni, the Thule, and the Grendel in particular. Other nations are dealt with by the [[Imperial Consul]]. They handle diplomatic relations with any foreign and barbarian power with which the Senate has not created a separate ambassador. As well as those who have responded this season, this includes people as diverse as the [[Skoura|Skourans]], the [[Great Forest Orcs]], the [[Druj]] and the independent septs of the Mallum, technically the Sand Fishers, the exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], and indeed any other distinct group of people that might make contact with the Empire, or be contracted by them. It can be...challenging... at the best of times.

Here we learn about relations with five foreign nations and two groups of orcs: the [[Iron Confederacy]], [[Otkodov]], the [[Jotun]], the [[Grendel]], the people of [[Tsark]], the Karass of [[the Barrens]], and the new ''Protectorate of Morajasse''.
==Otkodov==
{{Nation|nation=[[Thule]]|status=Foreigner|port=None|ambassador=Kindra Surefoot}}
===Shadow of Peace===
* '''The treaty with the Thule has been passed by the Imperial Senate
The [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Thule_Treaty|treaty with Otkodov]] that was presented and upheld by the Senate during the Spring Equinox has not been [[veto|vetoed]] and has become law.

While the plan was originally for Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided and a number of other Thule dignitaries to visit [[Anvil]] during the Autumn equinox to formally sign the treaty, their visit has been delayed until Winter. Rak is unwilling to give full details but is very clear that it is nothing the Empire has done or is doing - it is an internal matter. The treaty is legally in effect regardless; the formal signing is as he said previously mostly just "political theatre".

There are five [[fortification|Thule fortifications]] that defend their land in territories controlled by the Empire. Last season, work was completed to expand and improve several of those fortifications and powerful [[enchantment|enchantments]] were played on all of them. This season, only the [[Ossium#Bonewood|Bonewood]] castle of ''Fljajokep'' bears any noticeable enchantment - again bound with brass sigils that communicate to those who see them that they are marks of power, glowing with the heat of the forge. Likewise, magic seethes in the depths of the [[Ossium#Webwood|Webwood]]. Another Thule enchantment - a ward of [[night magic]]. Do the Thule know something the Empire does not, or are they simply taking precautions against potential attacks from [[the Mallum]]?

If the Thule are slow to sign the treaty, they are not slow to take advantage of it. Thule merchants soon appear in markets in the Marches and Navarr to buy large amounts of food and supplies, which are slowly shipped north. Herds of cattle, pigs and sheep are escorted towards the border with Otkodov, along with ox-pulled wagons containing grain, dried and cured meat, salted fish, wheels of cheese and barrels of pickles. As a result of the huge purchases, the ability of the Marches and the Navarr to support armies has both decreased, presumably the ability of the Thule to support additional armies has increased proportionally.

A few people shake their heads and wander if the Empire isn't storing up trouble for the future, but in the meantime the benefits are being felt immediately. There is money to be made in [[Mitwold]] and [[Upwold]] and in [[Hercynia]] and [[Miaren]] as a result of the treaty, and the boom is helping to raise taxation from territories across the two nations. In addition there is there a bounty of twenty mana being provided to the font each season, along with ten mana for the [[Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] and the [[Reeve of the Happiston Mana Exchange]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=thulebanner1.jpeg|title=Thule banner iconography|align=right|width=250}}
===Laws and Levies===
* '''The Dragons are ''mostly'' amused by the Conclave's decision to outlaw hollows'''
* '''They will not tolerate any attempt to prohibit the presence of hollows in the Empire'''
* '''The Thule are prevaricating on the matter of Thule tariffs on Imperial goods'''

The Thule have been officially informed of Conclave's decision to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Interdiction:_Hollowing|interdict the creation of hollows]]. For the most part they seem to be amused; the creation of hollows is a closely guarded secret, known only to the Dragons, just one of the unique magics they alone possess. The ability reflects their great age and supreme mastery of the arcane arts and they're ''very'' confident that nobody in the Empire has the slightest idea how to do it, given how many times the [[Volodny]] tried to acquire the arts from them. Every approach has always been rebuffed - dragons are adamant that they are never going to share the secret with the Empire - ever.

They are only ''mostly'' amused however, as there is a suspicion that this could lead to some kind of prohibition on hollows entering the Empire. The Dragons are very clear on this point, the ''body'' of a hollow is the property of the Dragon that created it. Hollows are a vital embodiment and reflection of a Dragon's power. They will not find any attempt to limit where their hollows may travel funny ''at all'' - rather it will be seen as a personal insult and one intended to try and curtail the powers of the Dragons. Rak compares it to an attempt by the Dragons to limit where the Empress might travel or who they might speak with.

Attempts to raise the issue of tariffs and levies with the Thule have not yet produced an official response. Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided demurs when asked about the matter, but when pushed suggests that such discussions would be complex and time-consuming and might need to wait until his replacement has been agreed and put in position by the Dragons.

The civil service suspect that the Thule are deliberately playing for time on this issue. They seem to be quite content with the current arrangements and happier ''not'' to discuss them. They suggest that the Empire might need to find a way to apply some leverage to this issue if they wish the Thule to prioritise it.

===Mieriada===
* '''The Thule had taken control of Mieriada in Miekarova'''
* '''They have claimed the Night Quarry and all other notable resources in the region'''
* '''The Empire retains access to the Maze of Zoria and half the stone produced by the Night Quarry'''
* '''The Thule are making arrangements for the Tolvoli Slaughterhouse'''

While magic is protecting Ossium, the orcs of Otkodov take ownership of [[Miekarova#Mieriada|Mieriada]] in [[Miekarova]]. An army comes down from the frozen heights above Wendell's Hope, and secures the borders of the formerly Varushkan region. This includes taking custody of the [[Night Quarry]], the old [[Miekarova#Heart_of_the_Tempest|Heart of the Tempest]], the [[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria#The_Maze_of_Zoria|Maze of Zoria]], several of the more extensive of the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]], and [[Tolvoli_Butcher#Tolvoli_Slaughterhouse_and_the_Heart_of_the_Tempest|the Tolvoli Slaughterhouse]]. Much more than simply land has been lost here. It is not so straightforward as simply losing these things, however.

First of all the Thule have agreed to allow half of the seasonal production of the Night Quarry to continue to be claimed by the Imperial Bourse. The seat will continue to be [[Auction of the Seats|auctioned]] - its [[Night Quarry#Bounty of white granite|production]] simply drops from 28 wains each season to 14 wains for the foreseeable future. Operational details are still being finalised but it appears the Imperial treasury will be required to pay half the upkeep of the Quarry for this.

Secondly they have agreed to preserve Imperial access to the Maze of Zoria - for as long as Thule warlocks are welcome at an Imperial [[college of magic]]. A number of warlocks have taken up residence at the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy crag of the Eternal Sun]], reducing the upkeep of the college by 5 thrones each season but allowing the Thule copies of any ritual text created at the college from the Summer Solstice onward. These first warlocks seem a little disappointed to discover [[Hayaak]] has become patron of the college, but so far there have been no unpleasant interests. One of the warlocks lets slip that they had hoped to have a chance to speak with some of the servants of [[Jaheris]] that used to operate out of the college about a [[curse]] called ''Terror of the Night Hags'' which has recently come into the possession of the Dragons - and whether the Empire has any experience of its effects. Shortly after this unfortunate breach of protocol, the warlock in question was suddenly recalled to Otkodov presumably to face a dressing down.

Tolvoli Slaughterhouse was not covered by the treaty, but Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided indicates that the warlocks dealing with the Heart of the Tempest are prepared to keep purchasing animals from their Varushkan neighbours in return for a portion of the magical substances harvested from the dhubik there. Practically this means that the Tolvoli Slaughterhuse continues to operate, and the Tolvoli Butcher remains able to acquire the [[Tolvoli Butcher#The Red Harvest|red harvest]] by providing the Thule with beasts. However, the amount available is reduced due to the warlocks claiming their own share of the preparations. This means that the Tolvoli Butcher loses the top rank from each of their ministries. It's possible that the Varushkans are not interested in continuing to trade with the Thule in this way. The Tolvoli Butcher is due to be [[Tolvoli_Butcher#Appointment|appointed]] this season - if no Varushkan takes the position the Dragons will take that as an indication they do not wish to participate in this arrangement and will take different steps to ensure the dhubik do not become a threat.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Forest of Ulnak regions.png|caption=The Empire has mapped the Forest of Ulnak, but parts of the territory still remain unknown.|align=left|width=400}}</div>

===Forest of Ulnak===
* '''Hinodir of the Bright Orb has requested access to the spy network in the Forest of Ulnak
* '''The Thule are not prepared at this time to share what they know of the Vore
Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided mentions that they received an interesting letter from '''Eli of the Cenotaph''' and '''Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka''' concerning the [[Forest of Ulnak]] and especially what lies to the north through the mountains - what the Empire called "the Vore". After taking counsel from the Dragons, Rak regretfully says that at this time he cannot share anything about this matter with Imperial citizens, not even to confirm whether the Mines of Areshan are in the Vore or not. Otkodov does not have a navigable border with the Vore and is happy for it to remain so at this time. As such, Rak concurs that the Thule would rather not see the folk of the Vore - whoever they are - gain control of Ulnak should the Druj collapse.

However... ''Hinodir of the Bright Orb'' has indicated that there may be a path toward the Thule sharing a little of their own understanding of the situation in the north-east. The Dragon knows that the [[Imperial Spymaster]] '''Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo''' operates a [[spy network]] in the Forest of Ulnak. The Thule would like to make use of that spy network to explore the territory in detail. As foreigners, all that is required for them to make use of the network is permission from someone empowered to do so. If that permission is forthcoming, the Thule would make use of the network following the Autumn Equinox to create a map of their own and investigate magical locations in the woodlands. There would be no requirement for other concessions - the [[Ossium#Webwood|Webwood]] borders Ulnak and as such their scouts can easily gain access to the Forest.

Should the Empire decide otherwise, the Thule will conduct an independent action in the Forest of Ulnak. It would be a costly affair, but the orcs of Otkodov are as capable of spying on their neighbours as the Empire is - although the Civil Service note that in the absence of the Civil Service, it is likely that a spy network costs the Thule significantly more to establish than it costs the Empire.

This concession would obviously represent a first step toward any alliance between Thule and Empire to invade the Forest of Ulnak. Rak is quick to point out that this does not mean the Dragons will definitely commit to such a course, only that if the Empire doesn't trust them to use the spy network it will make it ''less'' likely. Once the Dragons have a better understanding of exactly what is in Ulnak, they will determine if the risk of involvement there is worth the reward to Otkodov.

Rak was recently requested by one correspondent to put a price on such aid - there was an opening offer of 50 rings of ilium for four armies for a year. In response he points out that four armies would cost the Empire two hundred thrones a season - eight hundred thrones for a year - ''just for the running costs''. The Dragons will not even contemplate helping the Empire fight the Druj unless the rewards for the Thule are considerably better than that. Ilium is very valuable, but star metal falls from the sky... land does not.

One thing they are ''not'' asking for at this time is for the Empire to share their own maps or findings. They are welcome to do so if they want, but the Thule still want access to the spy network. The orcs of Otkodov are interested in different things to the Empire, for a start, and need to make their own observations rather than rely on potentially out of date reports from Imperial scouts.

The request is unusual to say the least and because of its unprecedented nature, there is no long-standing constitutional basis for how the decision might be taken. There are good arguments that could be made that control and use of such structures falls under either the remit of the [[Imperial Military Council]] or the [[Imperial Senate]], both of which have heavy demands on their time. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has responsibility for coordinating the use of Imperial spy networks and smugglers coves - but they don't currently have the legal power to decide a response to this request.

To resolve the problem, the Civil Service will introduce two administrative motions on Friday night of the Senate. The first would give the Imperial Spymaster the legal power to grant access to Imperial spy networks and smugglers coves to foreign powers by announcement in the Military Council. The second would give the Imperial Spymaster the legal power to control all access to Imperial spy networks and smugglers coves by anyone. This power would be employed by announcement in the Military Council. If either motion is passed, the Spymaster will be able to deal with the issue, if neither motion is passed or they are vetoed, then the matter will need to be resolved by Senate motion.

===Legacies===
* '''Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided expresses some interest in the Legacy Accords
* '''He asks for his opposite number to provide their own assessment of the proposals
* '''A poem written by a Wintermark skop has been shared with Thule artists
* '''Rak thanks Asch Fortae Shalder for their sentiments and asks if they have any concrete proposals
Rak asks Kindra to offer their opinion on the "Legacy Accords" presented to him by a Navarr named '''Dylan Thornweaver'''. They appear to be the basis for a treaty to determine how any future war between the Empire and Otkodov would be undertaken with several limitations and restrictions of who can be killed and what can be destroyed. The Ambassador keeps their cards close to their chest as to their own opinion, yet its clear they are interested enough to ask their opposite number to look into the matter.

The Thule Ambassador thanks '''Ragnhild Honeytongue Thrice-Passed Skaersdottir''' for the poem they have created, and assures them that the skuld ''Eiríkur'' is indeed aware of it. He expresses his gratitude and appreciation, and wishes to inform Ragnhild that he indeed intends to return to Anvil at some point (if he is given leave to do so) having greatly appreciated the warm welcome the skuldyr received.

Then there is the matter of '''Asch Fortae Shalder''', called the Wise Reviver. The Suaq Winterfolk expressed concerns that the orcs of Otkodov are still suffering starvation, and Rak wishes to reassure them that the situation is well under control. Along with the meat and other produce purchased from Sermersuaq, and the herds of cows recently bought in the Marches, the tribute of food paid by the Marches and Navarr more than addresses any shortfall the northern nation might be experiencing. It is, however, satisfying to be reminded that while there are Imperial citizens who resent the Thule, there are also those who appreciate the aid they offered in recovering Sermersuaq from the Jotun. The sentiments Asch has expressed are welcome, but they would be much more likely to secure the interest of the Dragons if they had something concrete to propose. Perhaps in a future missive, or with the help of Ambassador Kindra? Or perhaps something from the Imperial Conclave?

Finally, as requested '''Slawomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''' has sent a missive to the Thule Embassy providing more details about face-stealing creatures or folk that apparently operate in the woodlands of [[Ossium]]. Rak thanks the wise one for their work, and after consultation with some of the warlocks more familiar with the region than he is, confirms that they are known to the Thule. They were called ''face peelers'' by some of the human labourers who worked the forests of [[Otkodov#Sküld|Sküld]], and were also known to the slaves the Druj kept in Ossium. They prey only on humans - they will fight and kill orcs but are not drawn to them the way they are human folk. The Thule destroyed them wherever they encounter them for obvious reasons, but since they released all their slaves they have not troubled Otkodov at all. According to the folk tales the Thule learned from the humans they once kept, these creatures have a glamour that allows them to deceive others into treating their unnatural appearance as perfectly normal, and are able to breach protections and wards when the humans around them transgress even in jest in certain ways. The details are not entirely clear - with the best will in the world the Thule did not pay ''that'' much attention to their slaves. Perhaps there are still some in Ossium or Karsk who could answer questions on this matter?

==Iron Confederacy==
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
{{Nation|nation=The [[Iron Confederacy]]|port=[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]|status=Foreigner|ambassador=Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo}}
The Suranni lie to the south of the Empire. They are a secretive nation, bound up in tradition and suspicion. While they are currently at peace with the Empire, even accepting merchants and traders into their lands, they are certainly not ''friends''. Recent events have seen them, like the [[Faraden]], caught between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the pro-slavery Freedom Accord. Yet where Faraden feels it must play a delicate balancing act, the Suranni Dukes are more confident in their power and prepared to play Imperial and Asavean interests off against each other.

The Suranni ambassador to the Empire is ''Baroness Katerine Lavasse of Meore'', who operates from the Tour Lavasse in Chaubrette, a territory unknown to Imperial citizens that apparently lies to the west of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]]. A noble [[naga]], she replaced the significantly more dogmatic Jeanne de Hibernat, a High Priestess of the Suranni god [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith, Maiden of the Forge]]. She has already indicated that she is very much more pragmatic than her predecessor and more interested in compromise. She still reports to the Dukes of the Iron Confederacy, however, and so her apparent goodwill toward the Empire cannot be relied upon.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Suran.PNG|width=400}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Kavol.PNG|width=400}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Arav.PNG|width=400}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Kobol.PNG|width=400}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Evra.PNG|width=400}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Farod.PNG|width=400}}
</div>
===Regarding Serfs===
* '''The Imperial Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy has made further enquiries about the status of serfs'''
* '''Baroness Lavalle has reiterated what was said over a year ago about the difference between serfs and slaves'''
Ambassador Tethros also asked for some clarification on the status of serfs in the Suranni homelands. Baroness Katerine is clearly a little frustrated by the question, considering it to be returning to a matter that was already [[The_price_of_peace#Iron_Confederacy|settled more than a year ago]]. As was explained at the time, the former slaves of the Iron Confederacy became serfs, and the [[Imperial Senate]] consequently removed the unjust [[Tariffs#Sanctions|trade sanctions]] they had imposed.

In answer to the Ambassadors questions, the Baroness reiterated what she said previously. Unlike slaves, serfs enjoy some protections under the law. They cannot be subjected to direct violence, and cannot be bought and sold as chattel. They work the land they belong to, and whatever they produce belongs to the noble who owns that land. They cannot leave the land they are bound to, but the landowner does have some responsibility to ensure that they are not unnecessarily abused. It is possible for a serf or the child of serfs to improve their lot through selection for priesthood or exceptional military service.

Hopefully this will put the matter to rest once and for all. The Iron Confederacy has conceded to the Empire on the matter of slavery because it suited them to do so, but the Dukes see little profit in continuing to belabour the point.
===Grim Magics===
* '''The curse on the Suranni province of Arbonne appears to have abated
Last season the Suranni province of [[Arbonne]], which the Empire knows as Kalino, was struck by a terrible curse that blighted the fields at the height of harvest-time. Queries were directed to the Empire as to what, if anything, they might know about the situation. Ambassador Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo has apparently reiterated that although the effects of the curse were somewhat familiar - similar to [[Anathemic Call of Bug and Briar]] - there is no chance that Imperial magicians would have been involved in this calamitous magic. Rather, the Ambassador suggests that the [[Children of Wrecks]] - whose mistress is a powerful practitioner of [[Spring magic]], and who are known to include a number of former Hand of Dumon wizards among their number - may have had a hand in it.

Baroness Katerine accepts the Ambassador's reassurance, while remaining sceptical that the Children of Wrecks may have been involved. So far, their malign magic has broadly focused around the conjuration of violent storms and unseasonable deluges. Yet the involvement of the Hand of Dumon appears to be a given. Fortunately the priests of [[Suranni pantheon#Farod the Herald, Maiden of the Dawn|Farod the Maiden]], whose gentle hands bring Spring rains and still storms, have prevailed upon the goddess to intervene and it seems the power of Dumon has been broken.

Civil Servants suggest that this is likely an exaggeration - it's more likely that the curse has simply run its course than that the prayers of priests have brought the magic to a premature end.
===Days of Wine and Roses===
* '''A delegation of Suranni diplomats have accepted the Ambassador's invitation to attend the Marcher Wassail.'''
* '''They plan on attending Anvil at 11:00 on Saturday, and wish to be formally received in the Senate as befits their status.'''
The Iron Confederacy are quite well-disposed to the Empire at the moment. The Hand of Dumon is illegal, the sale of narcotics to the Iron Confederacy is illegal, the Empire remains at war with the Grendel and the Jotun, and Imperial trade flocks to Robec like starlings to scattered seeds. The Grand Dukes find their borders secure and their coin purses full, and this inclines them to a positive mood. As such, they have given permission for a small group of nobles to accept the Ambassador's kind invitation to attend the Marcher camp for Wassail. They intend to arrive at 11:00 on Saturday and see what merriment is afoot after their formal reception. Baroness Katerine Lavasse is sure that they will have a good time, and is also sure that the Empire, as good hosts, will ensure that the costs of any refreshments the party may require are covered. The Empire is so ''very'' proud of their prosperity, after all - the Suranni are happy to provide them with an opportunity to demonstrate it.

The delegation will be led by the Baronet Ser Marquette Lavasse, Baroness Katerine's cousin who attended the coronation of Emperor Vesna. He will be accompanied by his bodyguard Seigneur Ser Guillaume, his cousin the Baronet Ser Vauquelin Lavasse who acts as the Suranni Ambassador to Faraden, and doubtless a few other minor functionaries who can introduce themselves if they wish. Baroness Katerine indicates that the party would be pleased to be received in the Senate by Ambassador Tethros, as well as either the Emperor herself or a member of their household. There is no need for a grand ceremony, simply a mutual acknowledgement of two great nations with equally great destinies in this world, after which the party can be escorted to see whatever quaint pastimes the yeofolk of the Marchers have laid on.

Of course, no business would be discussed on such a social occasion. None at all. But if there should happen to be citizens around who were interested in making polite conversation on the subject of international trade, well, Ser Marquette is known to have an interest in such matters. The Children of Wrecks, naturally a matter of great concern to any civilised society, are also of great concern to Ser Guillaume, who has been staying abreast of the possibility for action against these marauders. And surely the Ambassador to Faraden will find much in common with Ser Vauquelin. Nobody will be talking business, of course. Simply sharing a little gossip about matters of mutual interest.

There is one more matter - a request, in fact. Baroness Katerine desires that one Ghisli 'the Provider' Baerson, a wealthy citizen whose audacity would make a Grendel blush, attend upon the delegation so that a face may be put to the name that everybody has heard so much about. Surely there will be some ''fascinating'' discussions to be had.
===Letters to Robec===
* '''The Suranni are enjoying the amount of Imperial trade passing through their port of Robec
The steady stream of Imperial traders into the port of [[Foreign_ports#Iron_Confederacy|Robec]] continues, and the Suranni continue to take every advantage. The Winterfolk benefactor '''Ghisli''' and their collaborators are to be commended for their hard work. Regardless of how things end up with the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]] and their Freedom Accord, the Baroness is confident that the Dukes will approve plans underway to make more unique and valuable Suranni produce available to Imperial traders visiting the port.
===An Imperial Historian in the Baronial Court===
* '''Marko Siwarsbairn is visiting the Iron Confederacy to complete a report on Suranni military victories
* '''They are a guest of Baroness Katerine herself
* '''The work is expected to take at least six months, available at the Autumn Equinox
It is possible that one reason the Ambassador might be expressing concern about the precise status of serfs is the [[https://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/empire-wiki/Soldiers_of_Suran#Into_the_Iron_Confederacy|publication]] by the [[Historical research#Department of Historical Research|Department of Historical Research]] of the first part of [[Historical_research#Marko_Siwarsbairn|Marko Siwarsbairn's]] research into Suranni military history. The historian is a guest of Baroness Lavalle, staying at her estates in Chaubrette, working closely with ''Josse Argent'' and several other scholar-priests. According to the Baroness, the work is going well, but as she [[I_wish_you_would#The_Historians|mentioned last season]] it looks as if Marko will be unable to return to the Empire before the Winter Solstice. She reassures the Ambassador that she is more than happy to continue hosting the Wintermark scholar who she describes as "delightfully droll."

There is however one matter that needs to be resolved; as the Ambassador is aware there were concerns when Siwarsbairn first came to the Iron Confederacy that their intention might be to engage in espionage. There is obviously no sign of that - Marko has been the soul of discretion and civility - but they are refusing to allow the Baroness or Josse Argent to read their report before it is delivered to the Empire. Katerine is concerned that the reason for this must be that it contains sensitive information. Marko claims it is because legally the report belongs to the Minister of Historical Research. As such, they are at an impasse. Can Ambassador Tethros intercede with the Imperial [[Minister of Historical Research|Minister]] to reassure Marko that it is acceptable to share their final report with their host. The scholar has already indicated they will trust the word of the Ambassador, should they pass along the Minister's instructions.

The Baroness is at pains to dispel any potential misunderstanding; if Marko continues to refuse to share their findings they won't be prevented from leaving or anything extreme like that. But they might find the willingness of Josse and the other scholars to cooperate suffers as a consequence.
{{CaptionedImage|file=JotunPose.jpg|align=right|width=450}}

==Jotun Diplomacy==
* '''The Jotun orcs of the west remain at war with the Empire'''
The Imperial Consul is responsible for diplomacy with the Jotun, although they seem to prefer dealing with the folk of Wintermark and occasionally the Brass Coast than any Senate-appointed diplomat.
===The Jarl's Death===
* '''The Jotun are pleased by the honour shown to Jarl Ustigar of Kierheim who died fighting General Osric at Anvil'''
* '''It is not yet clear who will replace Ustigar as the Jarl of Kierheim'''
* '''Igya Olgafsdottir has been recognised as the new representative to the Empire'''
During the Summer Solstice, ''Jarl Ustigar of Keirheim'' died in a duel of champions facing General Iron Osric. His body was carried from Anvil with all due respect, and transported back to his beloved Skallahn for the hero's burial he has earned over the decades of loyal support for the Jotun. It is not clear who his successor as Jarl of Kierheim will be, but there is rumour that both the King of the South and the Queen of the North have made pilgrimage to Kierheim to attend his funeral and to speak with those who might claim his mantle. It is likely this event that has drawn the two of them away from battle in the Marches this season, and it appears that a number of champions and heroes have likewise attended the burial. ''Igya Olgafsdottir'', Jarl of [[Tromsa]], has been acclaimed as the representative from the Jotun to the Empire.
{{SOP|statement= A meeting place is being built and with it new opportunities with the Jotun. In honour of the legends, we invite the Ghodi to break bread with their counterparts in the mystics. Let them share ideas and find ways to bridge the gaps between our nations.|by=Hayrin, Wintermark Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 284-0|when=Summer Solstice 387YE|size=small}}

===Meeting Hall===
* '''A new meeting hall is being constructed on a tidal isle, Gull Island in the Gullet'''
* '''The Wintermark Assembly could enact a mandate to soothe fears over the new meeting hall and invite the Jotun to join them there'''
The [[Sermersuaq#The_Meeting_Place|Meeting Place]] was for centuries a place just beyond the borders of Sermersuaq where the Jotun and the folk of Wintermark could meet in peace. It was primarily used for diplomatic purposes, allowing the two nations to discuss treaties and ceasefires, exchange prisoners, and the like. It also served this purpose when Wintermark joined the Empire - until it was apparently shattered by a Varushkan calling themselves ''Alderei the Fair'' (not the recent general of the [[Iron Helms]] - a different Varushkan using the same name). Its destruction at the time was taken as more evidence of how dishonourable the Empire had become. Empire.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Wintermark.png|width=150|align=right}}
Over the last year or so work has been afoot to try and create a new locale that can serve the same purpose. At the Spring Equinox earlier in the year, the Imperial Senate commissioned the [[Construct Meeting Place|construction of a meeting hall]] on [[Keep_talking#A_Meeting_Place|Gull Island]], in the sea off [[Kallavesa]]. The site was apparently chosen with the aid of the [[mystic|mystics]] and has certain resonances that make it an ideal place for peaceful meetings between the Empire and the orcs of Narkyst and Kallsea. Work is proceeding apace; the white granite has been delivered and all that remains is to actually build the place.

The Jotun have a notorious fear of water and avoid sailing wherever possible. Some say they fear drowning more than anything - the one sure way to guarantee that your soul is lost to the Howling Abyss. Some Jotun even talk of the sea ''as'' the Howling Abyss. Others say it is the presence of the terrible monsters in the Sea of Snow that makes sea travel so difficult. Fortunately the island is ''tidal'', so it is possible to walk across to it at low tides. For some reason, the Jotun seem to appreciate this - the thought of being ''trapped'' on the isle and unable to leave until the tide goes down doesn't seem to bother them, if anything quite the contrary.

There have still been challenges to overcome of course - the peculiar coral husks that have been bedevilling the coast of the Marches and Wintermark have several times tried to attack the island. Fortunately the same Wintermark fleets that [[Voyage#Escort_the_Fisherfolk_of_Westerhal|guard the fishing fleet of Westerhal]] have been on hand to ensure the builders are not troubled. Work is expected to be completed in time for the Winter Solstice - unless something disastrous goes wrong of course.

In anticipation of this the Wintermark Assembly supported a [[statement of principle]] raised by '''Hayrin''', inviting the Ghodi to break bread with their counterparts in Wintermark and find a way to "bridge the gaps" between the two nations. One problem, of course, is that the Ghodi have no idea what the Imperial Synod is discussing; the other is that not all Winterfolk welcome the Jotun to their lands. The orcs conquered Sermersuaq and were only recently driven out. They have made several attempts to conquer Kallavesa. Some worry that they may try to use this new Meeting Place as springboard to renew their attacks. There are also serious questions about whether the mystics are the best people to meet with the Ghodi for the first, auspicious meeting in the first place. A formal gathering at the new meeting place cannot help but set the tenor for future meetings on the site. Should there not be [[scop|scops]] involved to tell the tales of Wintermark heroes? Are there enough mystics of Suaq and Steinr traditions to ensure that the meeting is with ''all'' the peoples of Wintermark?

{{Mandate|mandate=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 (named individual) 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.|assembly=Wintermark National Assembly}}

If this [[mandate]] is enacted, the named individual will be responsible for encouraging messengers to travel into Jotun lands - a potentially risky move given the state of ongoing war - and priests to deploy suitable auras to support those messengers and reassure the folk of Kallavesa. It will not be enough to send them into Skallahn and Tromsa - they will need to travel in the south as well where the Jotun are involved in an ongoing battle with the Marchers. Assuming the Ghodi respond positively to the invitation - and it is likely they will given events to date - the named individual will be responsible for gathering a suitable contingent of folk to meet with the Jotun during the Winter Solstice. Such a momentous meeting is bound to attract the attention of the Sentinel Gate, after all.

===Smidr Clad In Scarlet===
* '''A smidr, a Jotun smith, has written to the Consul asking for help investigating the murder of two thralls'''
* '''He intends to come to Anvil under a flag of truce at 18:30 on Friday and hopes to speak with the Consul'''
The Jotun are skilled artisans - some claim that they taught Isenbrad the runes (though many Steinr claim the opposite). Their artisans are known as ''smidr'' or simply smiths: they are known to be highly respected and are thought to occupy a somewhat independent position in Jotun society, standing somewhat outside the hierarchy of clans and jarls. The smidr have their own ways: they have thralls sworn to them (who in practice will do most of the more mundane crafting, though a Jotun warrior will always describe their weapon as crafted by the smidr themselves and not by their thralls, who are considered simply an extension of the smidr's mastery.

In some stories, the smidr are described as belonging to fraternal organisations known as skrohn: a single skroh might contains a handful of actual smidr, many warriors who work under them and act to protect the smidr in return for being furnished with the finest weapons and armour, and many more thralls who work under the tutelage of the smidr and who, if they show skill and promise, may be invited to pick up a weapon and the smithing-hammer and begin the long journey to becoming a smidr themselves.

The smidr are also believed to have some role in the complex diplomacy the Jotun undertake with the Eternals of the Realms. While they certainly do take the battlefield, they are considered deserving of close protection by some of the most elite Jotun warriors: it has been some generations since the Empire has confirmed a smidr killed in battle (though presumably it does happen).

All of this would be a mere curiosity, just another part of Jotun culture that the Empire was not fully aware of, were it not for a letter to the office of the Consul some weeks before the Autumn Equinox. The letter is addressed from Harald Fourforge of the Skroh of the Locked Door of Skallahn: clearly a smidr. He explains that he is not writing on behalf of the Jarl of Jarls (to whom he scrupulously avoids assigning a gender as there are of course two claimants to that position). Rather, he is writing about a matter that he hopes will ''not'' rise to the level of official diplomatic incident. It seems that two thralls, Vigdis and Toki, were murdered in Fareskov last season: their Jarl, Jarl Alvilda Ottesen, has asked him to investigate, as it appears to be linked to some kind of eternal interest in the dark forest there.

As it is, Harald and his colleagues of the Locked Door, had their own interest in the events that transpired: he suspects that the murders that took place may well have been ordered by the Hungry Beast, as part of a plan to slip the fetters the smidr have placed on him in Skallahn. However, he wants to try to establish all the facts before he relays any information or conclusions to Jarl Ottesen. If she then believes that this was an Imperial attack on her thralls, she will doubtless take her complaints upwards, and out of the smidr's hands. If Harald is convinced that this was the act of malefactors working against both Jotun and Imperial interests (as allegedly happened with the meeting stone), and they can be brought to justice, then he will be only too happy to tell Jarl Ottesen this and then she is unlikely to consider the matter further.

As such, he is travelling to Anvil under a flag of peace (presumably he will not be travelling alone, but he does not confirm this). He expects to arrive at 18:30 on Friday, nice and early before too much Imperial business gets underway, and he hopes to be met by the Imperial Consul. He would also like to speak to Vossk of Zenith Ascendant, Eerikki Korpi, and Aulus Warcaster, as he believes they may have some light to shed on the matter. He is sure the Consul will be able to arrange such meetings. If he cannot satisfy things to his satisfaction, with the Consul's permission he will probably return again at some point during the summit.

He ends his letter by stressing once again that he is not speaking on behalf of any official diplomatic channels, the business of the Meeting-Place and anything that might transpire there is very much ''not'' the business of a smidr. As such he trusts that the Imperials will do the honourable thing and not try to discuss such matters with him.
{{CaptionedImage|file=shark.png|align=right|width=400|}}

==Grendel==
* '''The Grendel remain at war with the Empire
The orcs of the Broken Shore, the dominant power on Attar along the southern shores of the [[Bay of Catazar]], remain at war with the Empire. After several months of comparative silence, the Grendel navies and armies are on the move. They have launched a land offensive against Mareave, where they have "liberated" the Brine Turtles and threatened the [[Mareave#Fundindelve|mithril mine]]. They have also initiated a naval attack against Redoubt, which has seen them seize the port of [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] and only the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] prevented them from destroying it and potentially reshaping that entire area of coast.

Speaker Morna is the primary diplomat who deals with the Empire, and reports to the Salt-Lords Council directly. They are known to be cynical, arrogant, and self-indulgent, and while they obviously participate in the ongoing-knife fight that is Grendel politics, they were chosen for their fidelity as much as their diplomatic acumen.

===Peace and Storms===
* '''Speaker Morna claims that the Grendel have dealt with the Children of Wrecks presence in their domain
* '''They request that further correspondence about diplomatic matters come from the Ambassador to the Grendel
Following the Summer solstice there has been a single missive from Speaker Morna. It is delivered among [[Call Winged Messenger|fluttering unseen wings]] to the office of the [[Ambassador to the Grendel]], '''Finna''' of [[Dawn]].

They begin by addressing '''Abel the Rounder''', who raised the matter of the [[Children of Wrecks]]. Last season Speaker Morna touched on the fact the Salt Lords had sent their soldiers to deal with the [[Bay_of_Catazar#Temple_of_Tempest_Jade|Temple of Tempest Jade]], the unholy fane dedicated to the ''[[Siakha|Maelstrom]]'' on the shores of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Raineach|Raineach]]. The Empire needn't worry about that enclave of the Children any more, although Morna mentions that it seems a significant portion of the fanatics who once worshipped there had already shifted their attention to the more amenable islands off the Brass Coast. At this time the Salt Lords are not concerned about the Children who seem hell-bent on looting Sarvos rather than risking their ramshackle "navy" against the might of the orcs of Attar. Likewise, they are broadly unconcerned about the ''Pax Sarcophan'' - for while it may impede any nation from assaulting merchant vessels of uninvolved nations it entirely recognises the right to attack the ships of anyone one is at war with. So while the ships of the Commonwealth, Sumaah, and even Axos might be protected from any piracy sponsored by the Salt Lords, the Empire's ships very much are not.

As to the matter of peace, Speaker Morna explains that any such discussion must take place between themselves and the Ambassador to the Grendel.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Black pearl and his shell.jpg|align=right|width=450}}</div>
===Bells and Pearls===
* '''The Grendel are mostly unconcerned about the recent portents in the Bay
* '''Saltbinder Grekodh offers a deal to acquire any black pearls remaining in the Empire
The speaker offers commiserations to '''Thane Umarth Winter's Flame Klannsk''', general of the Fist of the Mountains. They commend the [[Grendel_religion#Fidelity|Fidelity]], [[Grendel_religion#Audacity|Audacity]], and [[Grendel_religion#Vigilance|Vigilance]] of the warriors of Wintermark, and acknowledge that in the matter of the destruction of Elos, their actions seem to have carried the day in the Empire's favour. It is difficult to do otherwise when the price paid for victory proved to be so high.

On the matter of a "Drowned Emperor" or "Queen of the Abyss", the Council of Salt Lords has taken counsel with ''Saltbinder Grekodh'', a magician with intimate knowledge of the [[Winter magic|arts of Salt]]. On the strength of that counsel, the Salt Lords have made their own preparations to deal with any threat from the depths of the Bay, but are unconcerned at this time with "imminent doom".

The Saltbinder has, however, expressed an interest in certain "black pearls" that have appeared in the waters of the bay. Saltbinder Grekodh and their coven are prepared to offer a reward of one pawn of [[Vis#Hearts Blood|Hearts Blood]] for each pair of pearls delivered via the [[Ephisis' Scale|commerce with the City of Gold and Lead]] during the Autumn Equinox. Any magician interested in making such a trade should ensure there are no more than a dozen pearls in the box, and include a piece of parchment with the rune [[Lann]] drawn on it. Obviously such a trade would be illegal in the Empire, but neither Speaker Morna nor Saltbinder Grekodh seem in any way concerned about this.
{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofTheBarrens.png|align=right|width=500}}

==The Barrens==
* '''For the most part the septs of the Barrens are largely just getting on with things
The Imperial Consul deals with diplomacy with the Barrens septs, at least in theory. In practice the [[Not_to_conquer#Rahvin|Rahvin]] are more likely to respond to approaches from the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]], while the [[Great Forest Orcs]] have made it clear that their alliance with the [[Navarr]] takes precedence over any Imperial political concerns. The Rahvin are also considering what response, if any, they will have to the Senate's [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Empire's_Responsibility_in_the_Barrens|acknowledgement]] of the Empire's responsibility of what happened in the Barrens.

The Karass are more complicated - the Karass [[Little_mercy#Trading_at_Carmine_Field|requested the Empire build a trading post]] and that whoever run it have the responsibility to handle arrangements with the Karass. This new [[Envoy to the Karass]] is due to be appointed, but the position isn't legally recognised as an ambassador which means the title holder can't raise a treaty in the Senate. Presumably, they would have to defer to the Imperial Consul for any ''official'' diplomatic business.
===The Karass===
* '''The Karass remain singularly focussed on removing the Last Battle Wayhouse from "their" lands'''
* '''They would like the Empire to avoid building any commissions in "their" lands'''
* '''The Karass are further alarmed by demands for ''poetry'' that have been levelled by the Dawnish'''

The [[Not_to_conquer#Karass|Karass]] are now the most numerous of the surviving septs of [[the Barrens]], along with the [[Great Forest Orcs]] and what is left of the [[Not to conquer#Rahvin|Rahvin]]. They have a presence in the [[The_Barrens#The_Untrod_Groves|Untrod Groves]] and the [[The_Barrens#Bleaks|Bleaks]] - having largely abandoned the villages that used to dot the [[The_Barrens#The_Plains_of_Teeth|Plain of Teeth]]. They have a poor reputation with the other septs, perhaps tied to their role in the early days of Imperial domination in the destruction of the [[Not_to_conquer#Vendarri|Vendaari]].

In recent months there has been alarm among the Karass about the presence of the [[Keeper_of_the_Last_Battle#Last_Battle_Wayhouse|Last Battle Wayhouse]] in the Untrod Groves. One of the first of the new [[Navarr_wayhouse|great wayhouses]] built, it serves as a focus for the Last Battle striding of the Navarr, whose scouts are engaged in exploring the [[Sarangrave#Nesustak_Forest|Nesustak Forest]] across the border in [[Sarangrave]]. Unfortunately, the Karass are deeply concerned about [[Navarr]] "trespassers" in "their" woods. An emissary dispatched from the Untrod Groves makes their way to [[The_Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]] to deliver a missive intended for the [[Imperial Consul]], from the leader of the sept ''Anka Karass''.

The Karass do not contest that [[the Barrens]] is Dawnish now - it has been conquered and that is just the way things are. The Empire has replaced the Druj and the Karass accept that. They are content to live in the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks as foreigners; to trade with Dawnish settlers if they wish to deal with them. Perhaps in time civility will blossom into friendship and alliance. But the Druj would never have built such a threatening commission in Karass lands, unless the sept had offended them in some way.

The Karass claim to be alarmed that the wayhouse was built without any warning. The first they knew of it was that there were Navarr all over the place poking their noses into Karass business. They thought they were free to live their lives in peace and be left alone, just as they did with the Druj, and then this happens. They say they want to see the woods of the central Barrens remain wild and just dangerous enough to allow Dawnish knights to quest in them - and Karass hunters to stalk the game they favour.

However what Anka Karass really wants, more than anything else, is for the wayhouse to be removed - or at least moved to the [[The_Barrens#The_Plains_of_Teeth|Plains of Teeth]] or [[The_Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]] or... well anywhere other than the Bleaks or the Untrod Groves. They claim this is due to concern among the Karass that the presence of the wayhouse has helped to wake the Manticore Earl from its quiescence. The last time it was roused, some decades ago, Anka Karass herself personally led the attack to fend off its incursion, on the orders of the Druj. She was the only survivor of that incident and she is very wary that the Earl seeks revenge. And it is not just the Earl of the Groves: who knows what else the Navarri presence might awaken in the deep woods of the Barrens? What if they start take an interest in ''Peytaht''? It does not bear thinking about.

The Civil Service point out that obviously it is not possible to just "move" a wayhouse. In the event the Imperial Senate is prepared to honour the Karass request, they would need to abrogate the Last Stand Wayhouse, and commission a new wayhouse elsewhere in the Barrens. Such a [[wayhouse]] would be built using the standard rules, and provide the standard benefits. What it would ''not'' do is provide any of the special benefits currently provided by the Last Stand striding.

They also point out that at the moment the Karass are not actually ''offering'' anything to the Empire. They are requesting changes, some of them potentially expensive, and providing nothing in return. They are however, very clearly desperate, about this issue. The presence of the Last Battle Wayhouse appears to alarm them even more than the prospect of the Druj returning.

Finally the Karass have received a letter from a Dawnish noble demanding poetry - about love. The Karass do not know what to do with this. Demands from their rulers for things are perfectly understandable, but the Druj never required them to provide poetry. They swear they don't have any poems and they don't know how to make them. They have provided the noble with three doses of true vervain, in the hope that this tribute will suffice in place?
{{CaptionedImage|file=Tsark2.png|align=right|width=600}}

==The People of the Moon==
* '''Tsark have indicated that they would like to open low-key channels of communication with the Empire'''
* '''They do not want an embassy at this time and would like to deal with the Consul if needed'''
* '''Sage Kristoph is coming to Anvil at 20:15 on Friday and will head to the Zenith Ascendent camp'''

A month before the Autumn Equinox, a visitor appears in Zenith. An elderly orc in long flowing robes, [[Write_your_own_ending#A_Border_'tween_the_Mountains_and_the_Moon|Sage Apollion has visited the Empire before]]. Last time he came to discuss the construction of a new fortification in Zenith, this time he has bigger concerns and has come with an important announcement.

On behalf of the People of the Moon, the Council of Sages have elected to reconsider their previous policy of complete isolation from the People of the Horse. Safe Apollion claims the Council are pleased that the People of the Spires have respected their wishes and built their fortification far from the Mountains of the Moon so as not to pose a threat. As the People of the Horse have also respected the Council's requirements for privacy and solitude, the Council would like to ''test'' a period of restrained diplomacy to see if the two parties might thereby benefit.

The Sage is keen to emphasize that this new channel of communication should be moderate and sombre. They do not wish to have an embassy, which might easily be taken as a sign that this new approach was intended to be permanent. It is hardly appropriate anyway, since such arrangements are usually reciprocal, and there is no chance of any Imperial citizen being allowed to enter the Mountains of the Moon. Instead they would like permission for two sages and their staff to take up residence at the Spire of the Night Sun, a relatively small Urizen spire near the border of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] that was abandoned during the last Druj invasion and has never been reclaimed.

From here they will be able to handle any official correspondence, presumably from the Imperial Consul, that the People of the Horse have for them. They stress that this is very much a trial period - many members of the Council remain deeply concerned about the prospect of violence spreading from the People of the Horse into the Mountains like a plague. Virtue is contagious after all - but so is vice. If that happens, then they will have to sever all links for their own safety.

One of their number, Sage Kristoph, is planning to come to Anvil. Zenith Ascendant have agreed to host him in their tent, and he would be happy to discuss details of the Council's change of heart, which he has long argued for. In particular he would like to meet with:

* Abel of Zenith Ascendant to sketch out possible trade.
* Vetti Gatherer-Peregrine to discuss Zaboravi cultivation.
* Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below to discuss poetry.
* "Whoever is in charge of Vallorn" to discuss that matter - this would presumably need to be the Speaker for the Vallornguard or the Advisor on the Vallorn.
Sage Kristoph is exected to arrive around quarter-past eight in the evening on Friday during the summit.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Crab-traced-2.png|align=right|caption=It seems that many of Gallum's troops are Stone Born, the most heavily armoured and arguably the most disciplined of the Grendel [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun|Moridun]].|width=350}}</div>
==The Protectorate of Morajasse==
* '''A significant force of Grendel remains in Feroz with control of Mora's Rock and the region of Morajasse
While the majority of Feroz has been liberated, [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] remains in the hands of the master-strategist ''[[Fake empire#Gallum Fiersach|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]''. Ably supported by his partner, ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' - a master of the [[Autumn magic|lore of Sand]] - they are based at the fortress of [[Feroz#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] along with a significant number of veteran Grendel soldiers. They have significant stocks of supplies, and they are carefully protecting the borders of Morajasse. And not just their own borders - before the Spring Equinox, Gallum and Saoirse led their troops into [[Feroz#Oranseri|Oranseri]] to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|fight the Children of Wrecks]]. After the fight, the Wind Lord delivered a message restating how the orcs of Mora's Rock despise the wreckers, and [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#After_the_Rain|urging the Freeborn]] to make preparations for further attacks.
===Bulwark Against the Storms===
* '''The Grendel currently garrisoning Mora's Rock have been recognised as foreigners by the Senate
* '''It would be a crime for any Imperial general to issue orders to attack Morajasse
* '''Commander Gallum Fiersach and his soldiers now protect Feroz from the Children of Wrecks
At the Summer Solstice, the [[Imperial Senate]] chose to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognise]] Morajasse as ''a protectorate under the command of Gallum Fiersach, who will be deemed a foreigner as long as they remain independent from the Grendel''. They have not [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|conceded]] the region - because it was not theirs to concede already being in the hands of Commander Gallum. The Senate has simply recognised its borders, and by extension dubbed the commander and his followers to be foreigners. Reassurances have also been delivered that the wily Freeborn magician '''Bakar i Riqueza''' will no longer be [[curse|cursing]] the fortification or impeding the garrison there.

With these steps taken, as [[I_wish_you_would#At_Mora's_Rock|promised last season]], Commander Gallum commits to protect the coast of Feroz against the Children of Wrecks to the best of his ability - at least for the time being. A [[Call Winged Messenger|magical missive]] has been delivered to the [[Imperial_Consul#Imperial_Consulate|Imperial Consulate]] in [[Tassato]], sent by ''Wind Lord Saoirse'', indicating that the protectorate and its commander are open to further negotiations. Gallum has requested that such negotiations be handled by the [[Imperial Consul]] rather than the [[Ambassador to the Grendel]]. Although no particular reason is given, the civil service speculate that it is to ensure a clear division between the protectorate and the Salt Lords' council.
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Freeborn.png|width=150|align=right}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|width=150|align=right}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|width=150|align=right}}
</div>

===Supplies===
* '''The orc quartermasters at Mora's Rock are attempting to buy provisions and supplies from the Freeborn of Feroz and Segura
* '''They find the normally entrepreneurial Freeborn are suspicious and uncooperative
Mora's Rock has supplies laid in, thanks to the foresight of Commander Gallum and his quartermasters. There is sufficient preserved food and fresh water to last out a significant siege. However, Wind Lord Saorise mentions that it would be significantly better if the soldiers there were able to trade with their Freeborn neighbours.

Unfortunately, for the last several years the Grendel at Mora's Rock have been synonymous with the cruel tyranny of former Governor Rahab. They may have acted professionally and with discipline, but they were still part of the apparatus that enforced the authority of the despised ruler of the territory. The garrison is wealthy - but that wealth was mostly taken from the people of Feroz. Some was taken directly by conquest, the rest "earned" through payments made by former Governor Rahab. As such, unsurprisingly, the people of Feroz are not wild about trading their limited supplies - and neither for that matter are the folk of adjoining [[Segura#Lucksprings|Lucksprings]] or [[Segura#Anozeseri|Anozeseri]].

At the very least it would likely be possible for the Freeborn Assembly, or the Assembly of Prosperity, or even the Vigilance assembly perhaps, to get involved here. They might use a [[statement of principle]] to offer encouragement to the people of Feroz and/or Segura, urging them to deal with the orcs. They might alternatively discourage them from doing so, and ensure the local Freeborn keep the Protectorate of Morajasse at arms length. Any influence the assemblies might wield here would be reliant on the wording of their [[statement of principle]] and of course the achievement of a [[greater majority]].

===Glowing Ramparts===
* '''Wind Lord Saorise is prepared to enchant Mora's Rock if the Empire fears an attack from the Children of Wrecks
Wind Lord Saorise includes a note of potential interest to the [[Imperial Conclave]]. She and her coven are capable of performing an [[enchantment]] using the [[Autumn magic#Lore of Sand|Lore of Sand]] that will draw allied forces from the [[Realms#Autumn|Mercurial Archipelago]]. She has demonstrated this ability in the past - leading advisors to the Consul to conclude she is referring to the enchantment the Empire knows as [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Ramparts_of_Ashlar|Ramparts of Ashlar]]. If the Imperial Conclave is prepared to [[Endowment|endow]] her with 75 crystals of mana she will ensure that enchantment is raised over Mora's Rock to significantly increase the ability of the garrison to resist the Children of Wrecks. Obviously the enchantment only lasts for a season, but Saorise says that the Protectorate will undertake the enchantment whenever the Conclave provides the mana.

Obviously, while she has proposed the Conclave deliver the mana, it is unlikely she will turn down a donation of mana from private citizens should they be able to use a ritual such as [[Ethereal Courier]] to deliver them. Unfortunately, that ritual is a little unreliable as to how ''soon'' it reaches the recipient. As such, using Ethereal Courier will result in an enchantment in the ''following'' season, whereas the endowment of the Conclave would elicit an enchantment following the summit where it is provided.

==Further Reading==
* [[Ambassador]]
* [[Imperial Consul]]

Has reared himself a throne

2025-08-18T13:05:05Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Melancholy Waters Lie */ Fixing this & That

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"I don't envy the archmages," said Lutomysla, swilling the last of her soil-brown Marcher beer around in the bottom of her mug. When she was in the Hub, she drank her beer from a mug. Not from any social pressure, but because she hated tea but liked to feel part of the team.

"In what way?" Jorgen was busy reviewing his notes, putting them in order in preparation for writing a proper report for the Archmage of Spring. The towering mushroom had had a lot to say, and the civil servant found that parts of it were fading in and out of his memory in an unsettling way. He'd obviously gotten a bigger dose of those barely visible spores than he had thought. He idly wondered if he ought to see a physick to be on the safe side but it had been a plenipotentiary response, and he was confident that even the strangest of the eternals would not test the boundaries of that particular magic by harming those receiving its response.

"The ambassadors have it easy in comparison." The Varushkan prognosticator leaned her arms on the desk and watched the ebb and flow of human traffic with a detached interest. "They're dealing with people with very different assumptions, but at least they are still people. They want the same things everyone else does. Love, money, power. The usual. They are unpredictable, surely, but in a predictable way."

She sipped the last of her beer. The dregs were thick enough to chew and she smacked her lips in appreciation. Jorgen shook his head. He very much did not see the appeal of that kind of Marcher beverage. He glanced a little sadly at his own mug, still three-quarters full of congealing cocoa.

"I think the eternals are predictable," he said darkly. "They intentionally time their responses to plenipotentiary messages for when I have just made myself a cup of the good stuff. Never fails. Every time."

Lutomysla cocked an eyebrow and half a smile as her friend grumbled, but didn't respond.

"Oh no, no. I mean, yes. They are predictable because they are focused. You're never going to get Toad King to care about anyone who isn't a magician, for example. No matter how much love, money, or power you put on the table. It's more that the ambassadors deal with humans and orcs. That the Ambassador to the Delves could, with a little support, take the same kind of approach they use with the Bedelaar Huisbaas if they had to talk to the House of Princes. Because humans and orcs. But that doesn't work for the archmages."

Jorgen shrugged. He didn't really know much about international diplomacy. It was very much not his wheelhouse. Most people, foreign or Imperial, annoyed him slightly. He wondered not for the first time if that was why he staffed this particular desk as often as he did, then put the thought aside and drank some of his cold cocoa. It was just as dreadful as he had expected it to be. Lutomysla, as she so often did, took his silence to mean she should continue on her theme.

"The problem is that the eternals ''within'' the realm are similar enough. The Autumn eternals on the whole like the Empire, and as long as you keep them where you can see them they'll deal with you on the same basis as they do their fellow cities. It's just how they do things. Night eternals will surprise you whenever they can, but they all love your attention and feeling clever. With Day what you see is what you get, and whatever they may say you know they care more about the thought than the physicality. Summer is all about the ego - and dealing with them is always a balancing act. Winter are watching you to see if you've learned anything, or maybe to see if they can eat you. Spring... now there's a tough one."

"Tougher than dealing with people who will eat you if you get it wrong?"

"Much tougher. None of them actually ''like'' the Empire, and because they're Spring they don't bother to hide it. They'd all be a lot happier without all these cities, and roads, and armies and what have you - all the things that make the Empire what it is. And because they're eternals, you'll never convince them otherwise. The best you can do is try and make sure that they don't set fire to the entire village when you ask them to help you gather firewood. If you see what I mean?"

"I don't," said Jorgen. "But then I just take the messages so..."

Very much as if they had been waiting outside the tent for their cue, a pair of black-and-green feathered creatures stepped dramatically into the tent, eyes glittering. They swept a bow to the gathering, and confidently approached the desk.

"Case in point," muttered Jorgen, grabbing a new stack of paper and a fresh quill. Lutomsyla rolled her eyes.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Time-eaten towers.jpg|caption=Time-eaten towers that tremble not, resemble nothing that is ours.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''<s>Five</s> Six eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil, apparently in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Three have agreed to meetings of one kind of another, either in person or via emissaries'''
* '''The other three have provided messages, opportunities, or gifts of one type or another'''
It is given to the six Imperial [[archmage|archmages]] that they might send a single [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their realm each season. In turn, the eternals are bound to respond, albeit in a way that suits them rather than the archmage. For some this will mean personal meetings, or congress with their chosen lieutenants. For others it will mean direct action, boons and banes offered and delivered, or chances to shape the mortal world so that it be more pleasing to their [[Realms|realm]]. Occasionally, they simply decline, but in so doing make their reasons plain. It is difficult to say with certainty what will arise from any given invitation to [[Archmage#Parely|parley]]. It is unwise to assume that any eternal creature is ''tame'', after all.

As the Autumn Equinox approaches, there have been six messengers dispatched and six messages received that seem to have occurred in response to the words of the Archmages.
==Sculptured Ivy and Stone Flowers==
{{CaptionedImage|file=EstavusArt.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
* '''Representatives of the City of Fire and Stone have responded positively to a plenipotentiary'''
* '''They have arranged a meeting with the Archmage of Autumn'''
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is ''Edmundo of Damakhan's Forge'''''
The soft spoken [[Metal_and_stone#Pride_of_Ikka's_Tears|Architect Noether]] is [[Hammers_and_boxes#Clearing_the_pass|not a stranger]] to the Empire. Shorn of the heavy furs they wear in the north, they are a delicate being with anthracite skin and peculiar garb reminiscent of mage armour but composed of sheets of unnaturally flexible sandstone. They bear a message from the [[Estavus|City of Fire and Stone]], responding to the plenipotentiary message of their factotum, '''Vossk of Zenith Ascendant'''.

According to Architect Noether, the proposal put forward in the missive was "clear, personal, interesting" and the ''Forgemistress'' intends to honour the request. The ''Architects of Iron and Stone'' - a faction in the fire mountain Shikal that specialise in assessment and appraisal of potential constructions and investments - are already putting together a proposal for a permanent office in [[Zenith]] from which '''Edmundo of Damakan's Forge''', and the Empire, may conduct business with the City of Fire and Stone. It will be built at the [[Zenith#Crucible_of_Fate|Crucible of Fate]], where the ''Lady of Hammers'' already has a [[Architect_of_the_Crucible#Bronze_Birds|not insignificant presence]].
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Office of Fire and Stone'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Iteri, Zenith (at the Crucible of Fate)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 [[white granite]], 20 [[mithril]], 10 rings of ilium, 90 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates the title of ''Architect of Hammers''
* Allows heralds of Estavus to enter the mortal realm at the Office of Fire and Stone regardless of alignment
* May provide other benefits</td></tr>
</table>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Architect of Hammers'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Urizen or Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes or Declaration of Conclave</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Depends on necessary details</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversee the Office of Fire and Stone; liaise with heralds of Estavus on behalf of Urizen or the Empire as a whole, depending on appointment method</td></tr>
</table></div>
The plans themselves are straightforward enough; an [[edifice]] of white granite and mithril with a little ilium used to harness certain [[Autumn magic|Autumn energies]] to make it easier for [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] of the ''City of Anvils'' to visit and remain in the mortal world. A title - ''Architect of Hammers'' - will be created to oversee the offices. The ''Bronze Artisan'' is unconcerned as to whether it is an [[Urizen]] title appointed by [[Tally of the Votes]] or an Imperial title appointed by [[declaration]] of [[Candidacy]].

There are clear similarities to a [[fane]] - a type of commission codified by the Empire's architects and civil servants to try and copy techniques used by the Jotun to liaise with eternals. However, unlike a fane, the eternal has given no indication that they wish the structure to be ceded to them. This could be crucial as it means the eternal would ''not'' have [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion|dominion]] over the commission; that would be held by the Architect of Hammers. As a result, it would be the architect who could determine whether heralds of Estavus could continue to come and go from the Office if the Conclave declared enmity. The eternal would only gain dominion if they seized it (with soldiers) or if they were given it by the Architect of Hammers, or a suitable authority in the Empire (such as the Conclave or Senate).

What has not been established, however, is the precise purpose of the structure. The Archmage is invited to meet with representatives of the Autumn realm during the Autumn Equinox to discuss precisely ''which'' version of the structure shall be built. The meeting will take place in a chamber reached through the Hall of Worlds at TBCXX. Archmage Edmundo is invited, obviously, as this is to form part of their legacy, and may bring up to two advisors to the discussion.

==Hours Breathing Faint and Low==
{{CaptionedImage|file=LlofirArt.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
* '''Llofir has declined parley'''
* '''It has put forward a way the Empire might rebuild trust with it'''
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is ''Ibiss Briarheart'''''
On the last day of Summer, as the world inevitably slips into Autumn, just as night falls, the Imperial regio comes alive. Eerie phosphorescence blooms, painting the stones rust-brown and honey-ochre and bloody violet. A thin, ivory-and-salmon fungus sprouts at the centre of the ring, and over the course of an hour grows and extends until it towers nearly ten feet tall. It has neither eyes nor mouth, but it nonetheless speaks clearly in a piping high-pitched voice. This eerie creature is an emissary of the ''[[Llofir|Lady of Spores]]'', the eternal of the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] concerned with fungus, rot, and decay. It comes in response to the plenipotentiary missive of Ibiss Briarheart, the Archmage of Spring. It has been three years - a blink of an eye indeed - since it was [[I_knew_you_were_trouble#Llofir|last sent]] to the Empire to speak with Imperial citizens.

The ''Rotlord'' would like to see the [[vallorn]] ended. Indeed, there was a time where it worked with Imperial magicians to understand that threat and how it might be dealt with. That was before the [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Enmity_:_Llofir|Conclave turned against it]], before armies [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Destroying_Angels|marched on its garden]], before the Empire's people chose to believe half-truths and suppositions over the word of the ''Quiet One''. In the past, it would have offered aid to the [[Vallornguard]] or the nations preparing for the fight against the blight of Terunael. There is now no path back to that position. If the Empire offers its trust, then once the [[The Dance of Navarr and Thorn|net is woven]], and the vallorn rises, the ''Promise of Life'' will see how it might help. But not before.
===Trust===
* '''If the Empire wishes to restore trust they will perform a special casting of Hallow of the Green World
* '''Any Imperial magician can use Madyn's Gift to gain a unique consumable to allow such a casting
The herald's lilting voice continues to speak of trust. The ''Inevitable Circle'' is not ''[[Ossegrahn|Lord Rain]]'', desperate for friendship. It will not accept words over actions taken, nor promises over deeds done. The Imperial Conclave has [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Regret_Conflict_with_Llofir|acknowledged regret]] for the conflict, but regret passes quickly. Fortunately, so does anger. When the ''Great Fungus'' demanded the right to ravage the farms of the Empire it was still irritated; that irritation has cooled in the eyeblink since. If Ibiss Briarheart and the Conclave wish to find a way to the place where parley is possible, if there are Imperial magicians who do not hold with what their masters have done, then it will be reasonable. When something is broken, something new can grow from its ruin. Friendship has been shattered; perhaps a new covenant may be forged from its splinters.

During the Autumn Equinox, Imperial magicians may raise the [[Hallow of the Green World]] across the Empire (and it is clear that like the rest of the Spring eternals, Llofir has no concern about the legality or lack thereof of such an act). Llofir will take the invitation it offers. For three months, it will tend to the ruined and the broken, much as it did in [[Reikos]]. At the Winter Solstice, it will consider the matter of its garden put to rest - provided the magicians of the Empire show that they are prepared to be vulnerable, to risk betrayal. There is a kind of strength that grows from weakness, and only through this vulnerability can the Empire and Llofir find their way back to trust.

Obviously, Llofir lies under enmity, and the ''Hallow of the Green World'' is an indiscriminate enchantment. If it were cast as things stand now, it would be more likely that ''[[Irra Harah|Shacklebreaker]]'' and ''[[Arhallogen|Venomfang]]'' would be the only eternals to respond in any meaningful way. The Conclave could simply provide Llofir [[alignment#Amity|amity]] which would allow it free reign during the enchantment, but that would no doubt require a level of trust that has not been earned.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box>'''Whisperspore'''<br>If you plan to take the boon Llofir is offering, you will need a suitably phys-rep for the resultant ''whisperspore''. A pouch containing an amount of pale powder such as sherbet or flour makes an adequate phys-rep for whisperspore. The whisperspore itself is provided in the form of a typical rip-on-use card. The only way to find out exactly what it does is to use it (by inhaling it).</box></div>
However, the herald speaks of an alternative. The Conclave's wards hold sway only so long as Imperial citizens do not offer a clear invitation. As the [[Yaw'nagrah|Green Mother]] did in Winter, Llofir offers a way to twist the ''Hallow'' to open a door for its heralds to touch the Empire. In a similar vein, during the Autumn Equinox, any Imperial magician can perform the Spring ritual [[Madyn's Gift]] but include up to five measures of [[beggar's lye]] alongside the [[realmsroot]]. For each pair of realmsroot and beggar's lye, the casters will receive a dose of ''whisperspore''. Any leftover realmsroot or beggar's lye will be returned untouched.

Like the [[Yaw%27nagrah#Donahorti|donahorti]] of the Green Mother, Llofir's vast garden in the Spring Realm is a pharmacopeia of fungus and stranger things not quite plant and not quite animal. Many of them have unique properties of interest to the ''Rotlord'' and those who deal with it. ''Whisperspore'' is a relatively benign substance, a soft powder that can be inhaled to empower an adept of [[Magical_skills#Realm_Lore|Spring lore]] to work their magic more easily, especially [[Spring magic]] that causes rot and renewal such as [[Turns the Circle]]. Or, in this specific case, the ''Hallow of the Green World''. If at least one dose of ''whisperspore'' is used to support a casting of Hallow the Green World during the Autumn Equinox, it will allow Llofir's servants to bypass the warding provided by enmity, letting them walk freely within Imperial bounds.

If the Archmage truly wishes a relationship with Llofir, either on their own behalf or on behalf of the Conclave, then they must take the first step by opening the door, and trusting that the ''Rotlord'' will not abuse that trust. If they cannot bring themselves to do so, then so be it. Llofir will not consider [[Archmage#Parely|parley]] in response to any future plenipotentiary message from the Archmage until after the war against the vallorn begins in earnest.

Obviously, just as with the [[Gifts_of_a_green_mother#The_Green_Mother_Problem|boons of the Green Mother]], the acceptance, creation, or use of ''whisperspore'' would be a crime while Llofir is under the enmity of the Conclave. Furthermore, the Conclave has [[interdiction|interdicted]] the performance of all Imperial enchantments - so performing Hallow of the Green World would be a crime in and of itself.

Message delivered, the mushroom herald shrinks back down leaving only a patch of dead grass behind. By the dawn the odd phosphorescence has faded entirely.
==Resignedly Beneath the Sky==
{{CaptionedImage|file=LashonarArt.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
* '''Lashonar has declined parley'''
* '''They have offered a use of the Caucus Forum to the Conclave if they wish it'''
* '''The current archmage of Night is ''Bella Vicente d'Apulian'''''
Two feathered heralds of Lashonar arrive at the Imperial Regio at the start of Autumn. They are an odd contrast to some of their cousins who have visited Anvil before. Their feathers are richly coloured, but the hues are sombre - midnight blue and deepest sea green - and their garb subdued. They both seem to know where they are going, and while they return greetings with a smile and a nod of the head they uncharacteristically do not stop to chatter with passers by. They bear a response to the [[Archmage of Night]] and take it in turns to explain.

They offer respect and greetings to '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' but apologise that at this time free access to the Caucus Forum is not available. The 'Forum is a magical locale under the control of Lashonar which allows strangers to meet and speak together safely. Given it [[Hey_now_how_you_doing%3F#Mutinous_Chattering_(Lashonar)|withdrew the power]] of the Archmage to call the Caucus Forum, it is hardly inclined to create an entirely different position with the authority to do so. As they said a year ago, they intend to continue speaking to Imperial magicians, and helping them communicate with others, but that such opportunities will happen on ''their'' terms rather than being something citizens of the Empire can take for granted.
===Caucus Forum===
* '''Lashonar will allow the Empire to access the Caucus Forum but on its own terms'''
* '''The Conclave can choose one of three groups to meet in the Forum'''
* '''if they make the decision on Friday the meeting will take place on Autumn summit; if not it will happen at the Winter summit'''
Still, the ''Loquacious One'' does not ban the Empire from its 'Forum - that would defeat the point. With that in mind, the heralds are pleased to announce that the Forum shall be made available to the Imperial Conclave, at the forthcoming summit, if they wish to make use of it. However, Lashonar has determined three groups or individuals ''they'' are prepared to invite to the Forum to speak with representatives of the Empire.
* Representatives of the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean Plenum]]
* Inhabitants of [[the Mallum]]
* A Prince of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]]
To take advantage of this opportunity, a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] must be passed indicating which ''one'' of the three options the Conclave wishes to converse with. The magician who raises the successful declaration will be invited to such a meeting, and may bring up to three others of their choice. If the Conclave chooses to accept during the Friday session, the meeting will take place on Saturday via the Hall of Worlds at TBC. If they accept during the Saturday session the meeting will take place at the Winter Solstice. If they do not accept... then that is their right and there will be no hard feelings.

In each case, the ''Voice in the Void'' has identified a group or an individual who would be happy to speak with the Empire. Such representatives will be the most moderate of their colleagues, the ''most'' favourably inclined to the Empire from their faction. While the eternal could try to arrange a meeting with a more representative representative, there is no guarantee that such an individual will accept the offer. Identifying the most receptive individual or group, allows the Loquacious One to be certain of success.

This offer to attend the Caucus Forum is only made at the Autumn equinox and is only applicable to the equinox. This is how the Caucus Forum will work for the time being - the Archmage of Night may use the power of plenipotentiary to ask for it - and may name some of the folk they wish to speak to - but the final decision will be made by the Conclave from a short-list prepared by the ''Muse of Connection''. The Conclave, after all, chose to [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Lashonar_to_Neutrality|end their friendship]] - which is their right, of course. But the lack of communication before or after this was done does not suggest that the magicians of the Empire want a close association with the ''Keeper of the Gates of Wisdom'' right now and it is not one to force such things. So it shall treat with them as it does with others who are not pursuing friendship.

As the conversation comes to an end the heralds regretfully ask why it is that the ''Eater-of-Silence'' does not seem to have had the ritual text for ''Summoning the Loquacious Birds'' returned to them? They felt they had made it clear they would like it back, and provided a method for whoever currently holds it to return it. They have not changed their mind about the ritual; they would be interested to hear why their request does not seem to have been honoured? Perhaps those who currently hold the text might use it to send a message to the ''Speaker of Dreams'' to explain their reticence?

Just before they leave, they touch on the matter of [[Sarangrave]] the archmage raises. They are apparently a little nonplussed. The ''Conscience of Kings'' is doing what it always does; encouraging people to communicate with each other. To call that a "grand plan" is perhaps a little hyperbolic? Unless this is about the [[Four_and_four#Beacon_in_the_Storm_(Lashonar)|rescue of Decius Frostspire]]? The only "grand plan" there was that the herald was delivering a message Imperial magicians had ''asked'' to be delivered.

==Melancholy Waters Lie==
{{CaptionedImage|file=JaherisArt.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
* '''Jaheris declines parley'''
* '''Jaheris is not inclined to arrange a meeting with Dho'uala until a matter of allegiance and influence is settled'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is ''Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''''
With Autumn well underway, a knight-magician of the Court of the Forest presents themselves at the Hub to speak on behalf of the ''[[Jaheris|Silver Prince]]''. They are striking to look upon - clad in azure and alabaster, their skin a delicate shade of eggshell blue, a curling horn-nub extending no larger than a thumb between their brows, a mane of silver hair. They have the restless agitation of a creature not much used to standing still. It is noted that their muscular legs end not in booted feet but in cloven hooves shod with moonsilver. When they speak their voice is surprisingly deep and resonant for their slight frame.

They get straight to the point. The Archmage of Summer has asked for the ''Unicorn Lord'' to arrange a meeting with the [[Dho'uala|dreadful entity]] that lurks in [[the Semmerlak]]. Unfortunately, ''Silverbow'' would have no idea where to start. Has the Archmage considered standing on the shore and bellowing? It is clearly meant to be a joke, but the delivery is very flat as if the messenger doesn't quite understand the humour.

On a more serious and constructive note however, the ''Shadowed King'' may have some understanding of dark powers but that particular creature is as alien to the realm of Summer and the Forest of Arden as it is to Imperial citizens. It is the kind of thing Jaheris would have been able to offer aid to ''fight'' or ''contain'', but can't really help Imperial citizens ''speak'' to. Not easily, at any rate. Now if the Archmage had asked for the ''Cunning Wolf'' to offer patronage to the magicians who patrol the borders of the Semmerlak with the support of the [[Watcher of the Semmerlak|Watcher]], or to the [[Less_welcome_tenants#Blades_of_the_Semmerlak|Blades of the Semmerlak]] (had that order actually been formed), that would be something he would be very enthusiastic about...

The [[Realms#Summer|Summer realm]] is not without its influence in the vicinity of the Semmerlak however. Among others, there is a potent witch-knight - a former courtier of the disgraced ''[[Hayaak|Griffon Prince]]'' - who has dwelled in the southern Semmerlak for centuries. She certainly has ''some'' kind of relationship with the creature. It is however perhaps not the relationship that the Archmage is looking for; if the ''Lord of Moonmanse'' finds the entity distasteful, the Lady of the Semmerlak positively loathes it!

In the event that the Archmage of Summer would find a meeting with the Lady of the Semmerlak to be useful however, the ''Honeyed Tongue'' could arrange such a thing. All it would require would be a formal request - a successful declaration of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] at the Autumn Equinox asking Jaheris to speak to the Lady on behalf of the Empire. The herald is confident that a meeting could take place at the Winter Solstice. And once the matter of who the Lady of the Semmerlak owes allegiance to is settled, then Jaheris would be able to arrange a parley with the creature of the deeper waters.

There is a matter of some mild concern; it's known that the "Lady of the Semmerlak" is no longer part of Hayaak's court, and exists in a nebulously uncertain place between the spheres of Jaheris, [[Eleonaris]], and [[Meraud]] who all have a theoretical claim on her allegiance. Obviously, a request of this nature from the Empire would provide an opportunity for Jaheris to woo the Lady towards his own court, especially if the Archmage of Summer or the Conclave supported the ''Hunter in Moonlight''. Something Jaheris is very likely to expect in return for his aid in this matter, however success could easily drag the Empire into the politics of the Summer realm. It seems likely that this is part of Jaheris' plan, and why he has chosen to respond to the plenipotentiary in this way. Resolving the allegiance of the Lady of the Semmerlak is effectively his price for arranging the meeting with Dho'uala.

With their duty discharged, the herald canters back to the Imperial Regio and slips back through the invisible gates to the Forest of Arden.

==No Ripples Curl==
{{CaptionedImage|file=ZakalweArt.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
* '''Zakalwe does not offer parley'''
* '''The eternal has a number of questions for the Empire and the Military Council'''
* '''He has specifically asked if the Council wishes to commit to one strategy over another in the Mallum'''
* '''The current Archmage of Day is ''Gralka'''''
"What does it mean," asks the herald without preamble, "to be a liberator?" They appear at the Hub a month after the start of Autumn, a serious individual in a bronze breastplate, archaic helm, and a wickedly practical-looking bident. They glow with faint luminosity in the dark tent, and bring with them the scent of saltwater and sun-baked sand. A captain under the command of ''[[Zakalwe|Weaponwise]]'', this is apparently their first time visiting the Empire. They bear a response to the Archmage of Day's
plenipotentiary.

After the initial flurry of questions, the herald gets to the meat of the matter, beginning almost apologetically. The ''General of Day'' does not wish to appear cruel, but it feels like the Archmage has not actually ''asked'' him for anything. He has teased out some implied requests from the plenipotentiary, but surely it is always easier to be direct than indirect?
===Conquest and Liberation===
* '''Zakalwe wishes to know if the Military Council shares the Archmages commitment to Liberation in the Mallum
'''Skywise Gralka''' has spoken at length of her desire, and that of the Empire apparently, to liberate the people of the Mallum. But to avoid the kinds of events that followed after similar attempts in the Barrens. What, asks the ''Commander in Coral and Glass'', does that ''mean''? The strategies and tactics of the conqueror and the liberator are fundamentally different, both on the battlefield and off it. So are the ultimate outcomes. A conqueror ultimately fights to keep what they take; a liberator gives it away. While the Archmage might wish that to be the case, why does the [[Imperial Military Council]] fight this war in the east? What are the Empire going to do once they have defeated the [[Druj]]? With the best will in the world, in the Barrens a significant faction claimed they were there as "liberators" but it is notable that the land is now part of Dawn with little enclaves for the two surviving factions of the people whose claim to the place depends on centuries of inhabitation. Three of the septs that once dwelled there are no more due to Imperial action in one form or another.

In essence, while Skywise Gralka may be committed to liberation rather than conquest... are they speaking for the Empire? The ''Beacon of Dawn'' sees that the [[general|generals]] of the Empire favour a direct, overwhelming attack in the eastern theatre. They rely on the [[Knights of Glory|might of the Summer realm]] to deal with their foes and that is a strategy that seems to be working. Any intervention by the ''General of Day'' is unlikely to mix well with the power of the [[Eleonaris|Lady of the Pennants]]. To be clear though, if the Military Council is in agreement with the Archmage of Day, then the ''Master Strategist'' could offer their support.

[[Day magic]] is adept at helping [[Day_magic#Focus|focus]] on objectives and helping folk to [[Day_magic#Mastery|master]] their intentions. The ''Scribe of Blades'' could prepare a set of [[arcane projection|arcane projections]] that could be used or codified to help [[Imperial army|Imperial armies]] focus on the matter of liberation rather than conquest. The enchantment would be comparable to ''Clarity of the Master Strategist'' - but they would help the army focus entirely on liberating those oppressed by the Druj in the Mallum, arming and supplying them, helping them to fight back on their own terms. What land an enchanted army took - and the impact of the enchantment would be half that normally provided by Clarity - would be claimed not by the Empire but by the inhabitants of the Mallum who were not Druj.

If the Military Council wants this support, they already have a method they can use to determine if a consensus exists - the [[Council_session#Powers_of_the_Council|simple vote]]. If the Council ''is'' committed to liberation over conquest, and they are prepared to accept the aid of Zakalwe, then they can request that the [[Herald of the Council]] raise the matter and take a vote on it. If they don't want Zakalwe's interference, or are ''not'' set on a strategy of liberation such as the Archmage has described, then that is fine and the ''Master Strategist'' would expect nothing less.
===Rites of Battle===
* '''Zakalwe asks ''how'' it can help the Archmage address the situation with battlefield ritualists
* '''The General of Day cannot provide an opportunity to kill Het Trakaa
The Archmage also apparently speaks of an inability to persuade sufficient practitioners of martial magic, versed in the [[Magical_skills#Realm_Lore|lore of Day]], to perform five castings of [[Piercing Light of Revelation]] on a battlefield. The Master Strategist is surprised that this is the case. The Empire has years and years of experience with the [[Sentinel Gate]] and the way magic can be used directly to secure military advantage. The Empire clearly has powerful magicians - they can cast [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]] after-all.

Is there some reason that magicians prefer not to take advantage of these opportunities. If that is the case, then that is not something that Zakalwe can fix - rather it is a deficit the Empire must find a way to address themselves. Perhaps the [[Rod and Shield]], the Conclave, or some other body of state could find a way to incentivise magicians to make themselves available to fight for the Empire? The Master Strategist can help support and empower such magicians if they urgent need such help, but without them there is nothing the eternal can do to help.

What ''Hunter of Tides'' cannot now do, is find a new opportunity for Imperial heroes to catch ''Het Trakaa of the Banded Snakes''. There was an [[Root_and_branch#Objective:_Kill_Het_Trakaa|opportunity in Summer]], but now it is clear that fate does not bend the eye of the [[Sentinel Gate]] in their direction again during Autumn. Zakalwe ''can'' offer a little help to locate and destroy some of the worst of the [[Druj_lore#Tortured_souls|tortured souls]] that the [[Druj_champion#Het|Het]] has created, but the mastermind himself is beyond the reach of the ''Master Strategist'' at this time.

And on the matter of [[Forest_of_Ulnak#Cassad_Ûln|Cassad Ûln]], the massive fortress in the north of the [[Forest of Ulnak]]? The Archmage has answered her own question. The Druj built their immense [[fortification]] to protect their borders, and the size of the castle gives some indication of how afraid they are that that force might defeat them just as the Empire is doing.

==Tempt the Waters From Their Bed==
{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
* '''An unknown eternal has responded to a plenipotentiary of the Winter Archmage'''
* '''The herald of that creature says that a parley will be held in the Hall of Worlds at midnight on Saturday'''
* '''The current Archmage of Winter is ''Ematius 'Icebreaker' Ankarien'''''
A week ago, as people are beginning to set up their tents and stalls in preparation for the Autumn summit, two figures emerge from the Imperial Regio without fuss. They walk directly to the Hub. It might be easy for observers to mistake them for [[Highguard|Highborn]] pilgrims, or perhaps [[the Marches|Marcher]] monks or friars of a particularly austere humour. They wear dark woollen cloth. The taller of the two is entirely shrouded, hood raised to hide their features, their only accoutrement a leaden bell on their hip hanging from their belt of thick rope. The other wears their robe open, revealing an old tunic crusted with salt, occluding whatever faded chapter-sign or livery-mark may have been displayed there. An observer would note that their solemn tread never falters, and that those who might otherwise pass to close to them seem almost instinctively to swerve away without really noticing what they have done.

When they reach their destination, the taller of the two does not speak. All communication comes from the shorter figure in their open black robe and crusted garb. They come as emissaries of ''Salt-in-my-lungs'' and ''Dark that Drowns''. The [[Archmage of Winter]], '''Ematius Icebreaker''', has laid an offering of names before the throne of ''Foretold-by-Bells'' and they find this tribute pleasing. There will be parley in the Hall of Worlds at midnight on Saturday. The Archmage shall attend, of course, and they may choose who among the Empire will speak as is tradition. No harm will befall any there save that they seek it themselves.

Before the meeting, the Archmage's "passengers" - the six they spoke of - can speak of one fear they have that they would see discussed during the parley. One specific fear each. The heralds leave a small stack of papers for the Archmage - six pieces of ragged parchment. The passengers can write their fear on the parchment and then bring it to the Imperial regio and through the [[operate portal|key to all doors]] throw it into the darkness with an invocation of one of those names offered by the Archmage. This must be done before midnight on Friday; these fears will form a skeleton for the parley to come. Six different passengers, six different fears. Each passenger will be called on to speak of their fear to the ''Deep Drowned''.

The parley itself will involve a place claimed by ''the Harbinger'', brought to the Hall by the power of the plenipotentiary, and none shall come within three paces of it lest the waters claim them. As the ''Sunken Rope'' draws near, the hall shall fall into darkness. Let those who would attend in audience bring their own lights if they so wish, but see that they are not too bright. Once the lights have fully fallen and the sea has come, there will be time for talk. There will be talk of lessons. There will be talk of fear. There will be talk of bells.

This extremely cryptic message leaves the civil servants none the wiser; they clarify again that this is the result of a plenipotentiary from an Archmage, and the hitherto silent figure in the hooded robe inclines its head once before striking the leaden bell with a long, broken, and splintered fingernail. The timbre of that single dull note rings through the Hub, giving all present a moment of absolutely wrenching terror that leaves them [[Calls#PARALYSE|paralysed]] for several seconds, and when the effect fades, the messengers are gone.

==Timetable==
There are comparatively few meetings taking place during this summit. The times, the locations, and the eternals involved, are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Lashonar]] || Night || Not a parley; an offer of the Caucus Forum should the Conclave wish to accept
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Estavus]] || Autumn || Not a parley; a meeting with the Archmage and advisors
|-
| Saturday || 00:00 || Unknown || Winter || Parley; in the Hall of Worlds
|-
|}

Wild is the wind

2025-07-22T00:40:02Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Gratitude and Grain */ Mirroring enthusiastic lines

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>"We could," said Jakarna Munkhabat slowly as if the idea was just occurring to her, "kill them all and burn their camp?"

The Faraden wizard's eyes glittered, and the glow there was easily matched by the enthusiasm that blossomed on the face of Mary Smith, crouched beside her.

"There are only five of them," said the Marcher battle-mage considering. "An incantation to repel ''that'' one through the fire, and an entanglement on the other would give us time to dispatch the other two before they realised what was happening. Then we finish off the others and the patrol is dealt with. Nobody would know, and that would be one less group of Jotun scouts to clomp their muddy feet all over Mournwold."

Jakarna nodded. "I agree - but let's not risk entanglement. I can weave Chains of Air, and if you can invoke Rushing Wind then one of us can shatter ''that'' one's shield and make them easy pickings. It might be a little tricky but stopping that first one readying their spear until we're ready to deal with them would be wiser, I think."

"I thought you people didn't believe in Wisdom?" murmured Mary, somewhat archly. Jakarna shot her a sour look, but took the ribbing in realtively good part.

"Applying your strength sensibly is a prosperous use of your talents," she said piously. They quickly smiled at each other, and then readied their implements - a thin moonsilver bound staff for Jakarna, a solid truncheon carved with bears and a buckler with the face of an angry bull for Mary.

"Right," said Mary. "It's the job that never get's started that takes longest to do, so let's do it."

Before the two could launch their attack however, they were interrupted by the sound of a throat being cleared quietly behind them. Venetia di Sarvos crouched in the long grass, and followed their gaze down to the camp below.

"Or, we could not." She spoke quietly, and was carefully not allowing her exasperation to show. "We could instead return to the caravan and let them know these orcs are keeping a watch out for us but probably won't be trouble given they are in the middle of what looks to be a chicken stew of some kind."

"What if they attack us in the night," said Jakarna. "Best not to leave an enemy behind us."

Mary Nodded but Venetia was not convinced. "We are travelling under flag of truce, remember. The Jotun won't breach the hospitality that implies but if someone murders one of their patrols, around the same time this Faraden caravan and its Imperial guides are passing through the area, what do you think is going to happen? Who will the Jotun immediately think is to blame?"

The other two wizards frowned at each other but couldn't refute her words. Venetia could have gone on, pointing out all the other reasons that the two should not be ambushing patrols right now - given for example that every other patrol they'd encountered had had at least half a dozen people and so it was likely there were another two Jotun somewhere nearby. Also there were signs of thralls being in the camp too - the fine cooking pot, the nearly stacked firewood, weren't traditionally things Jotun worried about. That would mean either witnesses, or murder that would make the Jotun even angrier. She waited for good sense to take hold on her companions.

After a few moment Jakarna sighed, muttered something uncomplimentary, and nodded her head once. Mary was a little less quick to agree - she carried a lot of frustration with the Jotun attacks on her home, first in Mournwold then in Bregasland, but in the end she acceded to common sense.

As they went back to the rest of the party, however, Mary muttered in an undertone she was confident Venetia would not here:

"Next time we waste less of it gabbing and more of it battering the Jotun, yes?"

Jakarna grinned at the Marcher, fire burning in her eyes, and winked in agreement.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Delicacies.jpg|caption=The Faraden pride themselves on their fine, luxurious victuals.|align=right|width=450}}</div>
==Overview==
Each season the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the Senate and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

The lifeblood of [[Faraden]] is trade, but it is also a country of canny wizards, courageous warriors, and proud (albeit heretical) priests. They currently do not share a border with the Empire, lying beyond the [[Jotun]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that does not stop them sending their caravans to Imperial markets despite the high tariffs they must pay to pass through the lands between. Diplomatic relations between the Court of the Five Winds and the Imperial Senate are changeable - warm one moment cool the next - but it has never come to open warfare. Right now Faraden is squeezed between two competing interests - the Empire on one side and the angry Plenum of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] on the other - and they must walk a knife-edge between the two powerful nations.

The Faraden ambassador to the Empire is ''Mistress Singua Karadragha'', a relatively recent appointment who replaced the former incumbent ''Lady Saretta of the Red Moon'' at the insistence of the Liege of the Five Winds, following their assumption of the position in a (relatively) bloodless coup. Mistress Singua advises the Court of the Five Winds on all diplomatic matters, and speaks on their behalf to foreign ambassadors. Her attitude to the Empire appears to be cool but professional, and heavily informed by the wishes of the Liege and their court, who seek more opportunities to trade with the Empire.
{{Nation|nation=[[Faraden]]|port=[[Sea_of_Snow#Pelabuhan|Caitun]]|ambassador=Ebenezer of [[the Marches]]|status=Foreigner}}
==War in Reinos==
* '''The Court of Five Winds is disappointed to see that the Empire has withdrawn from the Lasambrian Hills'''
When the Empire [[Follow me my friend|invaded the Lasambrian Hills]], the Court of Five Winds was very pleased indeed. The need for their caravans to pay significant tolls to the Jotun - and the knowledge that they could close the land routes at their whim - means the Faraden support the Empire controlling [[Reinos]] (or enough of it to allow their trade routes to stop passing through Jotun territory). The fact the Empire has pulled out, however, leads to a fair amount of disappointment.

Mistress Karadragha had proposed to arrange a diplomatic envoy to the Empire for the Summer Solstice, assuming the Empire remained engaged in Reinos. With the withdrawal, the emissary will not be forthcoming. An opportunity to talk about how Faraden could support Imperial conquest of Reinos is one thing; most other diplomatic matters can be resolved via missives and through the staff at the various embassies.

==Faraden Luxuries==
* '''Caitun no longer provides orichalcum to Imperial traders; instead the port provides a starting fleet with a cube of ''common mooncheese'''''
* '''Upgraded or enchanted fleets may receive ''rare mooncheese'' as well, which comes in a variety of different shapes'''
The Faraden Ambassador has continued to liaise with merchants in the Faraden town of [[Sea of Snow#Caitun|Caitun]]. The [[Sea of Snow#Pelabuhan|Pelabuhan]] port is the destination for Imperial [[fleet]] captains who wish to trade with the western nation. It is here that the unique ''giant blood whelks'' are acquired, and thanks to negotiations with the Imperial Ambassador, it's also a place to acquire luxury goods, especially fine food and drink, and rich fabrics (which can be sold in the Empire; a standard fleet secures goods worth 54 rings when resold in the Empire).

Knowing that there is continued Imperial interest in fine goods, Caitun merchants have begun stocking some of the rare cheeses produced by Faraden magician-fromagers. While the Faraden make excellent cheese, the cattle of Pelabuhan are known for an especially rare form of cheese infused with rare materials gathered in the shadow of the cliffs of [[Sea of Snow#Sadewnan|Sadewnan]]. Called ''mooncheese'', Mistress Karadragha writes in an amused tone that it is not ''actually'' from the moon; the name is, traditional for a certain kind of hard, tangy cheese. The fromargers produce several different variants and the merchants of Caitun are able to make some of them available to Imperial fleet captains in place of [[orichalcum]]. A standard fleet visiting Caitun will get a single cube of common mooncheese. If the fleet is sufficiently [[fleet#upgrades|upgraded]], or bears an enchantment at least equivalent to [[Lure of Distant Shores]], the captain will also gain a cube of red, green, or blue mooncheese which is considered a considerable delicacy in Faraden (the variety will be picked randomly).
* '''Common Mooncheese''' - A quarter-inch cube of common mooncheese is a semi-hard cheese, sometimes painted with pale wax. It is tangy and rich with a fruity taste. So tasty is it that even a single cube is known to improve the mood of the one who eats it, to leave them feeling sated and full for the rest of the day as if they had eaten a whole meal, and incidentally alleviates the effects of both [[Calls#WEAKNESS|weakness]] and [[Calls#VENOM|venom]].
* '''Red Mooncheese''' - Visually hard to tell apart from common mooncheese, it is usually painted with red wax. It tastes hot and spicy, and some folk can have an unpleasant reaction to it that leaves them unable to speak louder than a whisper for a time. It is also delicious - provided one likes spicy food. Favoured by Faraden wizards who study the [[Autumn magic|Autumn Flame]] it apparently focuses and enhances their ability to manipulate the force of serendipity when [[enchantment|blessing]] business endeavours.
* '''Green Mooncheese''' - This soft cheese with a faint greenish tinge, usually served in thin wedges. It tastes bitter but not unpleasantly so, and connoisseurs praise its sweet, sharp aftertaste. It is popular with certain warriors and explorers as it provides great intestinal fortitude, allowing the one who consumes it to throw off various forms of venom and some poisoning. It also kindles an enthusiasm for seeking out new experiences that is popular with epicureans planning a night of celebration.
* '''Blue Mooncheese''' - A more crumbly cheese, sometimes with pieces of fruit embedded in it. The blue in the name comes from the gentle vein that permeates the cheese. The taste is apparently different each time, and it is said that anyone who eats enough of it regularly experiences peculiarly lurid dreams (and occasionally experiences hallucinations while wide awake). It's popular with certain wizards, apparently allowing them to achieve an altered state where they can see the hidden colours in mundane wind and fire.

Hopefully Imperial merchants will be interested in securing these Faraden luxury delicacies.

==Nergui and Bulangiin==
* '''Ambassador Ebenezer reports on matters related to Faraden citizens in the Empire
The report of ''[[Follow_me_my_friend#Battlefield_Opportunity:_Rescue_Nergui_Enkhtseg|Nergui Enkhtseg's]]'' death is truly upsetting. That the life of the lost trader would end on the Grismont Road is lamentable and a tragedy. Their loss will be mourned by several of the High Lords of Faraden, but they accept that the Empire must have done what it could to rescue the merchant.

On the matter of ''[[Follow_me_my_friend#The_Extra_Bit_(Reinos)|Bulangiin Karadragha]]'', Mistress Singua Karadragha is confused. She asked the [[Champion of Prosperity]], '''Tom Appleseed''' to rescue Bulangiin to avoid having to pay the fifteen throne ransom to ''Geur Tightfisted''. Mistress Singua would much rather encourage the Empire's military units to [[venture#Raid the Jotun|raid the Jotun]] with extra inducement than pay the same amount to a grasping Lasambrian. It is unfortunate that the Lasambrian attempted to inflate the price, assumedly in the understanding that the Empire would benefit from them being the ones to return Bulangiin to Faraden. The Karadragha family have now paid the fifteen throne ransom, and Bulangiin has returned to Faraden.

Regardless, Mistress Karadragha is realistic. Both efforts were long-shots, and any sadness at the apparent failure of the efforts to help Faraden citizens is mitigated by the fact that the Imperial heroes at least ''tried'' to do so. It's unfortunate, but it won't damage Faraden relations or make them more reticent to ask for Imperial aid again if similar circumstances arise.
==Sparks Fly Up==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderRodAndShield.jpg|width=200|align=right}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderCelestialArch.jpg|width=200|align=right}}
</div>
* '''The Muhnkhabat family war wizards will be in Anvil from 15:00 to 18:00 Saturday'''
* '''They wish to see demonstrations of Imperial war magic, and speak to people with relevant titles'''
* '''If there is an opportunity for them to compete with Imperial mages in a test of arms, they would be most honoured to compete.

The [[A pillow of winds#Wizards of the West|Muhnkhabat family]] have sent a delegation of war wizards to The Empire, escorted by the Rod and Shield, to witness Imperial military magic and discuss potential opportunities for collaboration against the Jotun. The Rod and Shield magicians were welcomed warmly, and treated to three days of fine food, martial and athletic contests in which battle-magic was freely used, and many heated hours of argument about the best way to deploy magic - both invocation and ritual - on a battlefield.

Whilst there was potential for this journey to [[A pillow of winds#A Gentle Touch|cause some diplomatic issues]], the presence of the Celestial Arch has kept somewhat of a lid on things, and so far there have been no signs of trouble. The Arch came in particularly useful in persuading the more "gung ho" wizards of both the Muhnkhabat and the Rod and Shield ''not'' to launch an attack on a Jotun outpost that would most likely have led to several deaths and having to do half the journey to the Empire while being pursued by angry orc warriors. The diplomatic magicians also worked hard to smooth over situations where "friendly" contests threatened to get out of control, preventing conflict over matters of religion or history, and temper the general arrogance of the Muhnkhabat when dealing with citizens of the Empire. An exhausting, but ultimately successful, job that sees the Faraden wizards in a more receptive mood when they finally reach Casinea.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=GMRodandShield.jpg|caption='''Sakari Nightscale''', Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=GrandmasterCelestialArch.png|caption='''Xanthippe of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Now the delegation has reached Anvil, they wish to be given a tour of notable places of war magic, as well as meet with key figures in the implementation of the Empire's military magical strategies. The majority of the delegation is enjoying the sights and experiences of [[Anvil#Outer_Anvil|Outer Anvil]], or resting after their long journey. ''Chagataii Muhnkhabat'' (a younger sibling of ''High Lord Ganzorig Muhnkhabat'') will present themselves and a cadre of the families best at the main gate of Anvil at three in the afternoon on Saturday. They expect to be received with all appropriate honours, and will then be at the disposal of their Imperial hosts until around six. Obviously they hope that the Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield '''Sakari Nightscale''' will be available to represent their hosts (and Grandmaster '''Xanthippe Of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' from the Celestial Arch if they think such is necessary).

Chagataii wishes to leave the specifics of the itinerary in the hands of his hosts, but has expressed interest in the following:
* They would like to observe battle mages engaging in contests of war-magic, and if they may be invited to participate themselves to test themselves against their hosts, that would be appreciated. Whilst travelling through the Empire they have heard from some of their honour guard about the Icy Crag Tourney, and are very eager to take part if that is at all possible.
* They wish to visit the Hall of Worlds, and learn more about it and how the Conclave operates
* They want to see the Sentinel Gate and learn of its use and history and how it supports the Empire's battles
* They would greatly appreciate seeing demonstrations of Imperial war magic - especially how the Rod and Shield wield the principle of empowerment (Summer magic) and the power of the Wind (Day Magic) towards battlefield ends
* They will wish to meet the Imperial warmage and the Imperial warcaster, and to gain a greater appreciation of how the Empire's magicians wage war

They will bring with them a small gift as a token of their appreciation. Whatever gifts the Empire chooses fit to bestow in welcome will, of course, be gratefully received.

==Gratitude and Grain==
* '''A large contingent of the Hakhandra merchant family visit the Marches to collect sixteen head of cattle provided by the Ambassador
* '''They plan to establish a regular supply of fine Faraden victuals for the Ambassador going forward
A few weeks after the Spring Equinox, a large band of Faraden warriors turn up in the Marches. They come up through [[Tassato]] and [[Miaren]], giving the western territories a wide berth. They're particularly notable for their deep green coats, and finely died trousers and embroidered shirts. They are also especially gregarious for Faraden, always enthusiastic about stopping at a wayhouse or a roadside establishment to scatter handfuls of Imperial coinage for the chance to sample local delicacies. They are here to collect the sixteen head of cattle that Ambassador Ebenezer has acquired on their behalf. It's obvious that as well as being martially proficient they know their cows. They are members of the Hakhandra family, and they are very pleased. Visiting both Mitwold and Upwold cattle markets, they are at pains to speak with the farmers who raise and transport the cattle - and not only Marchers. There is a fair amount of interest in the [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd#The_Great_Herd|Great Northern Herd]], and efforts to establish the [[Million_miles_of_water#The_Cattle_Markets|Southern Herd]] and the [[Send_for_me#Herds_of_Afar|Herds of Afar]]. Several members lament that they will not have time to actually visit [[Skarsind]], [[Mareave]] or [[Feroz]] - at least not on this trip. The leader of the Faraden contingent - the enthusiastic ''Khutulun Hakhandra'' - makes a point of taking several of their friends to visit Kings Stoke, especially keen to meet '''Steward Watkin''' who was apparently key to ensuring the cattle were all collected.

In addition to the agreed on payment, Khutulun thanks the Ambassador and the embassy staff. The Hakhandra are interested in cementing closer ties with the Marches in particular, to buy the many exotic Imperial delicacies available in the markets of [[Mitwold]] and [[Upwold]] as well as fine Marcher cows, goats, and pigs. In recognition of the work Ebenezer has done, the Hakhandra have arranged for a small amount of equally fine Faraden victuals to be delivered to the [[Segura#The_Faraden_Embassy|Embassy]] in Segura each season. With an eye towards doing more business in future.

Following the Summer Solstice, and continuing as long as good relations with the Hakhandra are maintained, the Ambassador to Faraden will receive two cubes of ''common mooncheese'' and one piece of ''rare mooncheese'' each season. The Civil Service point out that this is clearly a bribe as much as it is a sincere demonstration of gratitude, but that the Faraden don't deny it either. The merchants clearly want to ensure the Faraden ambassador has an interest, no matter how minor, in ensuring good relations with the nation continue. ('''OOC Note:''' The ambassador is welcome to talk about the rare food and drink that forms part of this "hamper", and should feel free to pass off any amount of odd foodstuffs as having been gifted to them by the Faraden herdmasters).
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=A Yak.jpg|align=right|caption=The yak of western Faraden are like very hairy oxen but adapted to live at high altitudes and in cold weather. Their wool, milk, and meat is much prized.|width=400}}</div>
===Yakholme Grange===
* '''The Hakhandra are interested in establishing a permanent trade enclave in Upwold
* '''They are concerned about potential backlash if the project does not have the support of the Marcher Assembly
While they are in [[Upwold#Stockland|Stockland]], Khutulun Hakhandra speaks to the local Marchers about the plan to establish a regular trade route between the cattle markets there and Faraden. There is some caution, even suspicion. And, sadly, not just on either one side. The fiasco around [[Upwold#Moonwater_Hall_(ruins)|Moonwater Hall]] is very much in the minds of both Faraden and Marcher during these discussions. The apparent support of Ambassador Ebenezer - of good solid Marcher stock even if they do live among [[Mitwold|uptight folk who think they are better than they are]] - goes some way toward smoothing over concerns. Some tentative plans for Yakholme Grange are laid out.
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Yakholme Grange'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Upwold#Stockland|Stockland]], Upwold</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 wains of [[weirwood]] and 25 [[white granite]], 150 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' Relies on Faraden trade; there are concerns related to religious matters</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment for farms in Upwold by one
* Establishes Stockland as the Empire's premiere cattle market
* Increases Faraden trade with the Marches
</td></tr>
</table></div>
The Grange would be a [[great work]], and estimates are that it would require 50 wains of weirwood and 25 wains of white granite. It would cost 225 crowns in labour, and take six months to complete. It would raise the level of investment in farms in Upwold, increasing the income of every Marcher farm by an additional 36 rings each season. It would also help to put Stockland cattle market on the map - with the Hakhandra bringing some of their own prize bulls for sale here. There is no doubt that it would be the largest and most profitable place to buy farm animals and related products in the Empire.

In addition to the local effects, the market would see an increase in Faraden goods being brought into the Empire. The [[tariffs#Mercantilist|tariffs charged]] on Faraden imports would see an estimated 3 Thrones each season flowing into the [[Imperial treasury]]. It would also cement closer ties between the Marches and the Hakhandra family; a valuable first step toward securing access to the yaks that so fascinate Ambassador Ebenezer.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Marcher.png|width=150|align=right}}
There is however an obstacle. In the past there was conflict between the Faraden and the Empire over matters of faith and religion. The Hakhandra are not missionaries, they do not proselytise. But they are no less faithful to the [[On Faraden faith|Five Flames]] than any other merchant house. There is some concern that old antagonisms might reignite in the Marches who, as Khutulun points out, are nearly as good as the Faraden for remembering past conflicts and holding grudges. It has been suggested that a well worded [[statement of principle]] from the Marcher national assembly might help to allay both the fears of the Hakhandra, and worries among the Marcher folk who are concerned about heretical and blasphemous foreigners coming to Upwold. If such a statment is issued and achieves a [[greater majority]] the upside is obvious - it will not only reduce the likelihood of problems while the Grange is being built and could encourage the Hakhandra to offer material support to the construction. There are also obvious downsides however - if any trouble ''does'' erupt between the Faraden and the Marcher farmers, then people will end up pointing the finger at the Assembly for saying it would be fine.

Obviously, the Assembly might ''not'' favour another group of Faraden heretics establishing a trading base in the Marches. In that case, they might likewise use a statement of principle to encourage the farmers to be leary of the Faraden, and encourage the Hakhandra to take their their cattle market schemes elsewhere. This will sink the Yakholme Grange project, at least in the Marches, provided it achieves a greater majority. The good news is that even if it does end Hakhandra ambitions in the Marches, it won't inspire any kind of political disruption or diplomatic incident unless the language used is extremely vituperative. The Faraden understand the holding of grudges, and the desire to avoid another Moonwater Hall scandal is entirely understandable.

The most important thing is that if the Marcher Assembly chooses to get involved here, the wording of the statement of principle is ''crucial''. It should be as clear as possible what the assembly thinks, and whether they are encouraging or discouraging the Marcher farmers to support the Hakhandra ambition. Otherwise it might all go horribly, horribly wrong.

===Meade and Mithril===
* '''Another opportunity exists for the Alder of Meade to acquire a little mithril in return for iridescent gloaming
Between them Mistress Karadragha and Ambassador Ebenezer were able to secure an arrangement whereby the [[Alder of Meade]], '''Aubrey Shaw''', was able to [[A_pillow_of_winds#Gloaming_Dusk|buy mithril]] from the conservative ''Tseriyn '' merchant family. The Tseriyn were responsible for providing the lion's share of [[mithril]] to the old [[Gloaming Road]]. The deal went off without a hitch; a caravan of Tseriyn mithril was brought to Caitun, loaded onto Imperial ships, and brought to [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]]. Some further negotiations have taken place behind the scenes, and it seems that ''Amulchi Tseriyn'' is prepared to extend this "final arrangement" a little longer. There is less mithril available - in this case 8 wains are available to the Alder to purchase at a cost of 270 [[iridescent gloaming]]. Or, if they prefer, 4 wains for 135 measures of gloaming. As before the trade will pass through Caitun, but the Alder must be aware that the amounts of mithril available are low because the Tseriyn have made other arrangements for the bulk of their metal. ('''OOC Note''' as before if the Alder of Meade wishes to take advantage of this final offer, they should ensure the gloaming is in their account and email {{plot}} before downtime closes).
<div style="float:left; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Actuallythebest001.png|align=left|width=250}}</div>

==Firewind Market==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Faraden Quarter'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Holberg#Holmauer|Holmauer]], Holberg</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 70 [[weirwood]] and 30 [[white granite]], 300 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment for businesses in Holberg by one
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Firewind Prince''
* Permits the creation of Faraden caravanseri along trade routes
* Increases the taxation raised from trade with Faraden by 4 Thrones each season
* Significantly increases the number of Faraden travelling to and visting in Holberg</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: LightGreen;">'''Firewind Prince'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' League</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees Firewind Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To serve as a liason between the Faraden visiting Firewind Market and the people of Holberg; to encourage Faraden merchants to trade with the city; to smooth over any disputes; to make decisions based on any opportunities related to Firewind Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' If the Firewind Prince is not an inhabitant of Holberg, they may begin at a disadvantage when dealing with residents of Holberg caught in a dispute with Faraden merchants </td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Brightfire Market'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>8 crowns</td><td>6 orichalcum, 6 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>12 orichalcum, 12 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>36 crowns</td><td>18 orichalcum, 18 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>55 crowns</td><td>24 orichalcum, 24 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>74 crowns</td><td>30 orichalcum, 30 weltsilver</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Darkfire Market'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>8 crowns</td><td>6 tempest jade, 6 green iron</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>12 tempest jade, 12 green iron</td></tr>
<tr><td>36 crowns</td><td>18 tempest jade, 18 green iron</td></tr>
<tr><td>55 crowns</td><td>24 tempest jade, 24 green iron</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Brightwind Market '''</td></tr>
<tr><td>25 crowns</td><td>1 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 crowns</td><td>2 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>75 crowns</td><td>3 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>100 crowns</td><td>4 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>125 crowns</td><td>5 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>150 crowns</td><td>6 mithril</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Darkwind Market '''</td></tr>
<tr><td>25 crowns</td><td>1 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 crowns</td><td>2 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>75 crowns</td><td>3 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
With the clear decision of the Holberg Chamber of Commerce to favour the "Iron" option from among those presented to them, work is ready to begin on the Faraden Quarter in [[Holberg#Holmauer|Holmauer]]. The enclave will provide places for Faraden merchants to stay and rest, and establish small [[business|businesses]] of their own if they are so inclined. At the heart of the Quarter will be a large market dedicated to trading Faraden metal to Imperial citizens, in return for the kinds of goods popular in Holberg - Firewind Market. The Quarter will be overseen by a League citizen with the title of ''Firewind Price'' who will liaise with the inhabitants and smooth over any disputes. The Firewind Prince will be appointed by [[Tally of the Votes]] - by League business holders across the nation. Their ministries will allow them to purchase [[Materials#Metals|metal ingots]], and small amounts of mithril and white granite.

This Quarter is a significant undertaking. It will cost the Empire 70 wains of weirwood, 30 wains of white granite, and 300 crowns. The Faraden themselves will provide their own materials and labour to help establish the Quarter, roughly equivalent to that provided by the Empire. Work will take six months to complete.

Mistress Singua is a little apologetic in that the prices charged for the metals are higher than she might like, but that the [[tariffs#Mercantilist|tariffs]] imposed on Faraden imports are a significant contribution. On the other hand, the fact that the Empire ''is'' charging tolls and tariffs to Faraden merchants mean that when the work is completed the contribution from Faraden trade to the [[Imperial treasury]] will increase by 4 Thrones each season as long as trade continues. If the Senate were to move the Faraden to free trade, this contribution would drop, but the cost of the materials at the ministry would also drop.

While there was some concern that the Faraden might not be prepared to deal with the [[orc|orcs]] of the League, or the Sand Fishers of [[Holberg#Misericorde|Misericorde]]. Mistress Karadragha [[A_pillow_of_winds#Orcs_and_False_Flames|addressed these concerns]] by pointing out that any conservative Faraden who did not want to deal with orcs would not come to the Empire anyway. As it is, there is some potential for the Sand Fishers to profit here as well - after all they have a ''lot'' of lumber and wood to sell something the Faraden are known to value. It remains to be seen if they take advantage of this opportunity or not.
===Faraden Caravanseri===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Faraden Trail.png|align=left|caption=The Faraden trail from Segura to Holberg (and back).|width=400}}</div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Faraden Caravanseri'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Segura]], [[Kahraman]], [[Tassato]], [[Miaren]], [[Astolat]], or [[Semmerholm]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' varies based on focus and current level of investment in businesses, farms, or forests</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended once Faraden Quarter is completed</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' Only one carvanseri can be built per territory; relies on trade with Faraden</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment in the territory for one of businesses, farms, or forests
* Creates a ministry and associated title to purchase Faraden goods
* Increases the taxation raised from trade with Faraden by 2 Thrones each season
* Increases the number of Faraden travelling through and visiting the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Once the Faraden Quarter is completed the ability to create Faraden caravanseri will become available
Once work on the Faraden Quarter in Holberg is complete, it also opens up an opportunity for the Empire to encourage Faraden trade. Most Faraden caravans enter the Empire through Segura - traditionally past the [[Segura_spoils_of_war#Kabalai_Palace|Kabalai Palace]]. The Empires roads are excellent, providing quick and relatively safe travel - especially thanks to the efforts of groups such as the [[Navarr]] [[Venture#Roadwardens|roadwardens]]. The Faraden are happy to stay at [[wayhouse|wayhouses]] and inns along their routes, obviously, but there is a potential to make them feel even more welcome and help bolster trade with the western nation.

A ''Faraden Caravanseri'' could be built in any territory along a route to Holberg. At the moment that means [[Segura]], [[Kahraman]], [[Tassato]], [[Miaren]], [[Astolat]], or [[Semmerholm]]. A Caravanseri is a [[great work]] that supports one of [[business|businesses]] (representing trade with local entrepeneurs), [[farm|farms]] (representing direct purchase of Imperial victuals), or [[forest|forests]] (representing the purchase of forest goods). In the latter case, the great work would still provide 36 rings rather than the normal effect of investment in forests. Furthermore, regardless of which kind of great work is built, up to half the material cost can be in weirwood for those that usually need white granite, or white granite if the great work normally uses weirwood exclusively.

Once complete, a Faraden Caravanseri will serve as something of a hub, encouraging increased numbers of Faraden traders to explore the territory. It would also encourage more merchants to make the trip through the Lasambrian Hills to trade with the Empire in general. As long as Faraden [[tariffs#Mercantilist|pays tariffs]], the amount they contribute to the Imperial Treasury is increased by 2 thrones each season for ''each'' caravanseri. A given territory can only have a single caravanseri, however.

The caravanseri will also create a liaison position, responsible for ensuring good relations between the Faraden and the inhabitants of the territory. They'd need to make sure any disputes were dealt with and in return they would gain access to a small ministry reflecting their ability to purchase Faraden goods from the merchants visiting the caravanseri. At first this would mean metals, similar to those available at the big market in Holberg. If the Empire built other enclaves on a similar scale elsewhere in the Empire, they might be able to gain access to other substances. These titles would be appointed by [[Tally of the Votes]], and as mentioned above the prices they paid for Faraden metals would be raised by the fact the Empire imposes Tariffs on the Faraden.

Finally, each caravanseri will improve diplomatic relations with the Faraden a small amount. While they can be volatile, the overtures of the Empire have been very positive recently. They are also practical - the more of their trade that passes through Imperial lands them more likely they are to want to preserve the status quo.

However, if Holberg Market was ever abrogated or destroyed, the caravanseri would likewise stop operating until it was reopened or a similarly significant enclave established in another city.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBVarushka.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=NationBannerDawn.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
===Further Markets===
* '''There has been some discussion of establishing other major Faraden markets in the Empire
* '''Mistress Karadragha requests confirmation from the Overseer of the Western Road that there is interest in trading fabric and garments with Faraden traders
* '''She also enquires as to whether there might be interest in establishing a victuals market in Dawn
The Court of Five Winds is interested that Ambassador Ebenezer mentioned proposals that Faraden might consider not just an enclave in Holberg, but similar trade hubs in Varushka and the Marches. If Varushka is interested in establishing an enclave on the same basis as Holberg, one that deals primarily in fabric and clothing, that would be very acceptable. They would prefer to spend as little time as possible in the forests of Varushka which they understand are infested with monstrous flesh-eating trees. So it would be ideal to look at building something in [[Karov#Delev|Delev]], especially given the proximity of the new hall extolling the virtue of Varushkan fabric and weaving.

Mistress Karadragha understands that the [[Overseer of the Westward Road]] is a significant figure among the merchants of Varushka. If the Ambassador can confirm that there is interest, Singua will send a speculative group of Faraden to explore the possibilities. ''However'' she will only do so ''after'' work has begun on Firewind Market. Too much time and investment has already taken place for her to switch her attention to a new project with the current one half-completed.

As to a victuals market in the Marches, Mistress Karadragha can see the appeal. She confides that there is also interest in establishing such a concern in [[Dawn]] whose fine wines in particular are considered to be especially luxurious. Is there any interest in the eastern nation at all? That is not to say that something in the Marches could not be discussed - but the Faraden Ambassador would prefer to wait and see how the plans for Yakholme Grange proceed before pushing forward there.

==Paying to be Forward==
* '''Mistress Karadragha seeks introductions to the diplomats of Axos, Skoura, and Otkodov
One other matter of interest related to trade has been raised; there is a great deal of interest in three of the nations that border the Empire to the north and east. Faraden merchants have encountered traders from [[Skoura]], [[Axos]] and [[Otkodov]] while visiting Imperial markets. Mistress Khardraga has a request for Ambassador Ebenezer; would it be possible for the Imperial ambassadors to effect an introduction for Faraden to the diplomats of those three nations? She already has the tools to make cautious contact, but obviously establishing a basis for understanding can take time especially when dealing with unfamiliar cultures.

Obviously the Ambassador to Faraden has limited ability to effect such an introduction, but presumably the Empire has ambassadors to these nations? Mistress Singua believes that if those ambassadors were to vouch for the Faraden to the Skourans, Axou, or Thule that would go some way toward smoothing over that initial period of "getting to know you" and be invaluable in getting to the important part - talking about trade. Equally obviously, this is of some value to the Faraden as a nation - if the Ambassador feels that some sort of gratuity or ''quid pro quo'' were in order, Ebenezer has only to ask and Mistress Karadragha will evaluate the request and decide if it is worth the aid the Empire can offer.

The Imperial Civil Service advise caution; at the moment the Empire controls any access Faraden has to the orcs of the north, or the two smaller nations to the east. While Mistress Karadragha might claim that eventually Faraden will establish its own communication with some or all of these nations, that could easily take years if it succeeds at all. If the Empire introduces the Faraden to these nations, then the Faraden will henceforth deal with these other nations with no reference to the Empire whatsoever. On the other hand, if the Faraden ''do'' establish trade links with Skoura, Axos or Otkodov, any trade will need to go through Imperial lands along Imperial toll roads and over Imperial borders. This might result in a small but steady trickle of additional funding into the Imperial treasury, or bring other benefits if the Ambassadors are shrewd enough in finding ways to exploit this opportunity.

==Flame and Virtue==
* '''Imperial priests have attempted to bolster their peers in Faraden against Asavean propaganda
* '''The Ember Blossoms have returned to Faraden
Last season two proposals relating to faith and religion [[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Matter_Of_Faith|were made]]. One was a possibility for Imperial priests preaching the four virtues similar to four of the Faraden flames- [[Courage]], [[Loyalty]], [[Pride]], and [[Prosperity]] - to support their "peers" in opposing [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] efforts to [[A_pillow_of_winds#Fanning_the_Flames|convince citizens]] that the Asavean and Faraden religions were not as disaparate as they appeared. The second was an offer from a [[bands#sects|sect]] of Faraden [[Malign spiritual presences#Vengeance|Vengeance]] dedicates to [[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Just_World|offer specialist aid in the Archipelago]]. Apparently these ''Ember Blossoms'' felt their particular understanding of encouraging others to take vengeance on those who have oppressed them would be useful in stirring up civil war in the far west.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Courage.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Loyalty.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Pride.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
===The Flames Burn Brighter===
* '''The cooperation between priests of the Empire and Priests of Faraden has narrowly failed to halt the inroads of the Asaveans.'''
* '''The people of Faraden are still open to attempts by foreign powers to influence them.'''
Last season a coalition of conservative Faraden priests [[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Matter_Of_Faith|approached the Empire]] with a concern, and a proposal. The slimy tentacles of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] sought to get a grip on Faraden society by claiming some sort of commonality between the [[Faraden#Faraden_Religious_Beliefs|Five Flames]] and the [[Asavean gods]], a common trick in the Plenum's cultural arsenal. Outraged by what they saw as a blatant insult to the power of the human spirit and the virtues that guide them, the priests of Faraden invited the Imperial Synod to engage in a series of joint religious celebrations. Priests of [[Courage]], [[Loyalty]], [[Pride]] and [[Prosperity]], the four Virtues that both nations agree to be true, would stand together and reaffirm that despite any differences between the Way and the Five Flames, they could both unite to condemn the scourge of idolatry.

The Imperial Synod spung into action, with all four of the relevant Assemblies passing Virtues urging their congregants to support the actions of those who would preach against the insidious influence of Asavea. Following the Spring Equinox, priests from across the Empire heeded the call and travelled to Faraden, some arriving via the docks at Caitun, some accompanying the caravan transporting representatives of the Rod and Shield and the Celestial Arch in [[A_pillow_of_winds#Wizards_of_the_West|their own diplomatic mission]]. Those who arrive in the first wave find themselves greeted with a certain amount of fanfare - pro-Imperial sentiment is strong, even in a highly factionalised Faraden, and many people are keen to show off their Prosperity by offering food and lodging to honoured guests. The mere fact that the Imperial Synod has deigned to engage with the priests of Faraden as equals is already a major victory.

What follows is a whirlwind tour of different religious events, ranging from intimate family gatherings where the nature of Virtue is discussed over the dinner table to public rallies attended by hundreds of people where dozens of priests are given the chance to witness to the crowd. These events are invariably lively, regardless of the size, and larger assemblies are often attended by musicians, street performers and food vendors, creating a festive atmosphere everywhere the priests go. The Asaveans are nowhere to be seen, although the priests always seem to just be missing them. The visiting Imperials consistently hear that the Asaveans passed through a few days ago, or are likely to visit in a few days time, or are in the same place but on the other side of town.

It does not take long for the more politically astute among the Imperial delegation to cotton on to the highly choreographed nature of the whole affair, how symbols of Faraden art and culture are to be seen everywhere they travel, how the capacity of the Flames to bring joy and comfort is emphasised and conversations about sacrifice and difficult choices are couched in the romantic language of ancient stories and national myths. This is a political event as much as a religious one, and a lot of planning has gone into making it seem as spontaneous as possible.

Yet for all the success of the Imperial delegation, the Asaveans are at least as skilful in their manipulations. Some among their number are pompous and condescending, but many others are passionate, philosophical, or dignified by turns, charming the Faraden crowd at least as much as any of the Imperial preachers. They never question the Empire's right to involve themselves in the affairs of Faraden, a right that the Empire arguably has more claim to than distant Asavea.

Instead they speak of progress, adapting to a changing world, and a willingness to learn from new information. The priests of Asavea recognise that they have much to learn from the faiths of other nations, including those of the Five Flames. How arrogant it would be for them to claim a monopoly over truth, or even over the path that may lead to greater understanding! They do not seek to impose their religion on the people of Faraden, not at all. They simply seek respectful dialogue. And while many citizens of Faraden heed the call of the Empire to return to the fundamental orthodoxies of their faith, just as many speak of openness to dialogue and a potential role for Faraden in an increasingly connected world.

Had even one more congregation supported the mission then the balance might have tipped in the favour of the conservative elements, but it was not to be. The debate is fierce, and continues unabated with little changed as the priests return to their homes.

One more matter arises from this as the season begins to turn. The priests of Faraden are notoriously fractious and hard to organise, lacking a centralised Synod to facilitate decision-making. Despite this, word reaches the Imperial embassy that at a recent gathering at the Palace of the Five Winds, representatives of several major priestly families voted by a narrow margin to extend personal thanks to '''Dagon of the Shattered Tower''', '''Damascius''', '''Kaywenn de Orzel''', and '''Darian Numbers''', the priests who raised the Judgements urging the priests of the Empire to preach in Faraden. There is no material reward, but the messengers to the embassy are keen to emphasise how rare such a gesture of respect is.

===Embers Burn Low===
* '''The Ember Blossoms have declined the Empire's invitation to pass on their skills at resisting and undermining those in power.'''
{{SOP|statement=Freeborn corsairs should not be transporting the Ember Blossoms of Asavea. We do however invite the Ember Blossoms, expert and experienced fomentors of rebellion against tyrants and oppressors to come to the Empire to teach Imperials their skills so we can better incite rebellion and uprisings in Asavea. The preaching of Justice remains illegal.|by=Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra, Freeborn Assembly|vote=78-28|when=Spring Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The Ember Blossoms are an independent group of agitators looking for passage to Asavea in order to precipitate a peasant’s revolt there. They are approaching Freeborn corsairs to smuggle them in. The Freeborn Assembly endorses this action.|by=Caspian i Sharthra i Riqueza, Freeborn Assembly|vote=68-58|when=Spring Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
[[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Just_World|The second approach]] made by religious devotees of Faraden last season was less successful. The ''Ember Blossoms'', a militant sect of Faraden vigilantes who target those who use their power to oppress the poor and downtrodden, sought assistance from the Freeborn National Assembly to travel to Asavea and use their skills to incite the slaves of the Plenum to recognise the numerous outrages perpetrated against them, and to rise up in the spirit of Courage, Pride, and Justice.

The Priests of the Brass Coast endorsed two statements of principle on the matter, one [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_145|endorsing the transportation of the Ember Blossoms]] and [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_124|one refusing it]]. The second statement suggested that the militants might instead teach their skills to operatives of the Empire, a sentiment apparently echoed by certain Imperial worthies who spoke to representatives of the Ember Blossoms at the Spring summit. A neat compromise, perhaps, but one that the Ember Blossoms have refused.

The message from the Ember Blossoms makes it clear that while they do not take the refusal personally, they recognise the simple truth: that the Empire wants their skills, but does not recognise what it took to forge them. If the Empire trusted the Ember Blossoms, they would accept their assistance as it was offered. They have not done so, and so that trust is not there. It is understandable. Trust is earned, and the Empire do not know the Ember Blossoms. But the Ember Blossoms are under no obligation to twist their skills to make them more palatable to others. Faraden may not be able to match the Empire in terms of size or wealth, but their [[Pride]] stands as the equal to any of the Empire's virtuous souls. It is a shame to not be accepted into the Empire's project to liberate Asavea, but it would be far more shameful not to be accepted on an even footing.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Fire Whirl.jpg|align=right|caption=Some [[Faraden]] hold grudges against the Empire and see them as a threat that must be dealt with.|width=400}}</div>
==Scattered Cinders==
* '''A group of discontented Faraden nationalists called the Cinders have attempted to assassinate the Champion of Vigilance.'''
* '''The Liege of the Five Winds has unconditionally denounced these actions, and denied any links between this group and the Faraden state.'''

Of all the people in the Empire to attempt to assassinate, the [[Champion of Vigilance]] has to rank as one of the worst choices. Despite this, it seems that some souls, perhaos courageous, perhaps foolish, perhaps both, took a shot at doing so at the Spring Equinox. By all accounts the Champion, currently Jared, is fine, alert as he is to all dangers, within and without. Details of the attack and its aftermath are somewhat garbled, and any who wish to know more should probably consult Jared himself, but perhaps more notable is the fact that the would-be assassins were citizens of Faraden, a revelation that has caused some consternation in diplomatic circles.

While the Ambassador to Faraden did not choose to bring up the incident in their missive, the fact of it has still spread. By all accounts the staff at the Faraden embassy have quickly begun sending somewhat frantic winged messengers back home in order to determine whether anyone knows who might be responsible. This may be the one good thing about Faraden's cultural preoccupation with Justice: they are very keen to determine who is responsible for any wrongdoing. And as it happens, the perpetrators are not backwards about identifying themselves. Back in Faraden, far away from any of the events organised by the priestly coalition that invited the Empire, a group called the Cinders has reared its head and begun bragging about 'striking back against the blasphemers who submit to the False Virtues of [[Ambition|Selfishness]], [[Vigilance|Paranoia]], and [[Wisdom|Doubt]].' In the understated words of the embassy staff, this is probably not a coincidence.

Further information is quick to be provided. The Cinders are a deeply reactionary group within Faraden whose primary belief is that society has become 'decadent' and 'too accepting of foreign blasphemy'. The charge of decadence is met with some derision - what humourless fool would decry enjoying a little luxury now and then? Does Prosperity not teach us to enjoy the fruits of our labours? Still, their ultra-orthodox stance on the Flames has always had some supporters, and a message of toughness and self-reliance can appeal to the insecure. The Cinders have gone through cycles of acceptance and suppression, but like a particularly resilient weed, they always seem to pop up again where they are least expected.

Regardless of their history, attempted murder against a foreign dignitary is too far for the Liege of the Five Winds. Tchinua Ganbatar, the Liege of the Five Winds, issues a public statement decrying the actions of the Cinders in taking up arms against a person who has done them no wrong. They call on all citizens of Faraden to shun these troublemaking fanatics who offer no solutions to the nation's problems, only an endless cycle of violence and alienation from powerful allies.

Despite their strong words, however, the gesture is largely symbolic. While the Liege of the Five Winds is powerful, the authority to suppress the Cinders lies with the individual families, as it must do for civil society to function. The more vocal and less prudent members of the sect may be caught and punished, but their leaders will go back underground and their supporters will shield them, as they always have. Even this public condemnation will be used in their propaganda to paint them as truth-speakers being punished by those in thrall to unwholesome outside influences. Being unable to operate openly will impede their activities, but they will almost certainly be back. Citizens of the Empire should remain watchful.
{{Faraden Links}}

Wild is the wind

2025-07-22T00:37:05Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Faraden Luxuries */ Making wizards sit comfortably with a comma

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>"We could," said Jakarna Munkhabat slowly as if the idea was just occurring to her, "kill them all and burn their camp?"

The Faraden wizard's eyes glittered, and the glow there was easily matched by the enthusiasm that blossomed on the face of Mary Smith, crouched beside her.

"There are only five of them," said the Marcher battle-mage considering. "An incantation to repel ''that'' one through the fire, and an entanglement on the other would give us time to dispatch the other two before they realised what was happening. Then we finish off the others and the patrol is dealt with. Nobody would know, and that would be one less group of Jotun scouts to clomp their muddy feet all over Mournwold."

Jakarna nodded. "I agree - but let's not risk entanglement. I can weave Chains of Air, and if you can invoke Rushing Wind then one of us can shatter ''that'' one's shield and make them easy pickings. It might be a little tricky but stopping that first one readying their spear until we're ready to deal with them would be wiser, I think."

"I thought you people didn't believe in Wisdom?" murmured Mary, somewhat archly. Jakarna shot her a sour look, but took the ribbing in realtively good part.

"Applying your strength sensibly is a prosperous use of your talents," she said piously. They quickly smiled at each other, and then readied their implements - a thin moonsilver bound staff for Jakarna, a solid truncheon carved with bears and a buckler with the face of an angry bull for Mary.

"Right," said Mary. "It's the job that never get's started that takes longest to do, so let's do it."

Before the two could launch their attack however, they were interrupted by the sound of a throat being cleared quietly behind them. Venetia di Sarvos crouched in the long grass, and followed their gaze down to the camp below.

"Or, we could not." She spoke quietly, and was carefully not allowing her exasperation to show. "We could instead return to the caravan and let them know these orcs are keeping a watch out for us but probably won't be trouble given they are in the middle of what looks to be a chicken stew of some kind."

"What if they attack us in the night," said Jakarna. "Best not to leave an enemy behind us."

Mary Nodded but Venetia was not convinced. "We are travelling under flag of truce, remember. The Jotun won't breach the hospitality that implies but if someone murders one of their patrols, around the same time this Faraden caravan and its Imperial guides are passing through the area, what do you think is going to happen? Who will the Jotun immediately think is to blame?"

The other two wizards frowned at each other but couldn't refute her words. Venetia could have gone on, pointing out all the other reasons that the two should not be ambushing patrols right now - given for example that every other patrol they'd encountered had had at least half a dozen people and so it was likely there were another two Jotun somewhere nearby. Also there were signs of thralls being in the camp too - the fine cooking pot, the nearly stacked firewood, weren't traditionally things Jotun worried about. That would mean either witnesses, or murder that would make the Jotun even angrier. She waited for good sense to take hold on her companions.

After a few moment Jakarna sighed, muttered something uncomplimentary, and nodded her head once. Mary was a little less quick to agree - she carried a lot of frustration with the Jotun attacks on her home, first in Mournwold then in Bregasland, but in the end she acceded to common sense.

As they went back to the rest of the party, however, Mary muttered in an undertone she was confident Venetia would not here:

"Next time we waste less of it gabbing and more of it battering the Jotun, yes?"

Jakarna grinned at the Marcher, fire burning in her eyes, and winked in agreement.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Delicacies.jpg|caption=The Faraden pride themselves on their fine, luxurious victuals.|align=right|width=450}}</div>
==Overview==
Each season the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the Senate and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

The lifeblood of [[Faraden]] is trade, but it is also a country of canny wizards, courageous warriors, and proud (albeit heretical) priests. They currently do not share a border with the Empire, lying beyond the [[Jotun]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that does not stop them sending their caravans to Imperial markets despite the high tariffs they must pay to pass through the lands between. Diplomatic relations between the Court of the Five Winds and the Imperial Senate are changeable - warm one moment cool the next - but it has never come to open warfare. Right now Faraden is squeezed between two competing interests - the Empire on one side and the angry Plenum of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] on the other - and they must walk a knife-edge between the two powerful nations.

The Faraden ambassador to the Empire is ''Mistress Singua Karadragha'', a relatively recent appointment who replaced the former incumbent ''Lady Saretta of the Red Moon'' at the insistence of the Liege of the Five Winds, following their assumption of the position in a (relatively) bloodless coup. Mistress Singua advises the Court of the Five Winds on all diplomatic matters, and speaks on their behalf to foreign ambassadors. Her attitude to the Empire appears to be cool but professional, and heavily informed by the wishes of the Liege and their court, who seek more opportunities to trade with the Empire.
{{Nation|nation=[[Faraden]]|port=[[Sea_of_Snow#Pelabuhan|Caitun]]|ambassador=Ebenezer of [[the Marches]]|status=Foreigner}}
==War in Reinos==
* '''The Court of Five Winds is disappointed to see that the Empire has withdrawn from the Lasambrian Hills'''
When the Empire [[Follow me my friend|invaded the Lasambrian Hills]], the Court of Five Winds was very pleased indeed. The need for their caravans to pay significant tolls to the Jotun - and the knowledge that they could close the land routes at their whim - means the Faraden support the Empire controlling [[Reinos]] (or enough of it to allow their trade routes to stop passing through Jotun territory). The fact the Empire has pulled out, however, leads to a fair amount of disappointment.

Mistress Karadragha had proposed to arrange a diplomatic envoy to the Empire for the Summer Solstice, assuming the Empire remained engaged in Reinos. With the withdrawal, the emissary will not be forthcoming. An opportunity to talk about how Faraden could support Imperial conquest of Reinos is one thing; most other diplomatic matters can be resolved via missives and through the staff at the various embassies.

==Faraden Luxuries==
* '''Caitun no longer provides orichalcum to Imperial traders; instead the port provides a starting fleet with a cube of ''common mooncheese'''''
* '''Upgraded or enchanted fleets may receive ''rare mooncheese'' as well, which comes in a variety of different shapes'''
The Faraden Ambassador has continued to liaise with merchants in the Faraden town of [[Sea of Snow#Caitun|Caitun]]. The [[Sea of Snow#Pelabuhan|Pelabuhan]] port is the destination for Imperial [[fleet]] captains who wish to trade with the western nation. It is here that the unique ''giant blood whelks'' are acquired, and thanks to negotiations with the Imperial Ambassador, it's also a place to acquire luxury goods, especially fine food and drink, and rich fabrics (which can be sold in the Empire; a standard fleet secures goods worth 54 rings when resold in the Empire).

Knowing that there is continued Imperial interest in fine goods, Caitun merchants have begun stocking some of the rare cheeses produced by Faraden magician-fromagers. While the Faraden make excellent cheese, the cattle of Pelabuhan are known for an especially rare form of cheese infused with rare materials gathered in the shadow of the cliffs of [[Sea of Snow#Sadewnan|Sadewnan]]. Called ''mooncheese'', Mistress Karadragha writes in an amused tone that it is not ''actually'' from the moon; the name is, traditional for a certain kind of hard, tangy cheese. The fromargers produce several different variants and the merchants of Caitun are able to make some of them available to Imperial fleet captains in place of [[orichalcum]]. A standard fleet visiting Caitun will get a single cube of common mooncheese. If the fleet is sufficiently [[fleet#upgrades|upgraded]], or bears an enchantment at least equivalent to [[Lure of Distant Shores]], the captain will also gain a cube of red, green, or blue mooncheese which is considered a considerable delicacy in Faraden (the variety will be picked randomly).
* '''Common Mooncheese''' - A quarter-inch cube of common mooncheese is a semi-hard cheese, sometimes painted with pale wax. It is tangy and rich with a fruity taste. So tasty is it that even a single cube is known to improve the mood of the one who eats it, to leave them feeling sated and full for the rest of the day as if they had eaten a whole meal, and incidentally alleviates the effects of both [[Calls#WEAKNESS|weakness]] and [[Calls#VENOM|venom]].
* '''Red Mooncheese''' - Visually hard to tell apart from common mooncheese, it is usually painted with red wax. It tastes hot and spicy, and some folk can have an unpleasant reaction to it that leaves them unable to speak louder than a whisper for a time. It is also delicious - provided one likes spicy food. Favoured by Faraden wizards who study the [[Autumn magic|Autumn Flame]] it apparently focuses and enhances their ability to manipulate the force of serendipity when [[enchantment|blessing]] business endeavours.
* '''Green Mooncheese''' - This soft cheese with a faint greenish tinge, usually served in thin wedges. It tastes bitter but not unpleasantly so, and connoisseurs praise its sweet, sharp aftertaste. It is popular with certain warriors and explorers as it provides great intestinal fortitude, allowing the one who consumes it to throw off various forms of venom and some poisoning. It also kindles an enthusiasm for seeking out new experiences that is popular with epicureans planning a night of celebration.
* '''Blue Mooncheese''' - A more crumbly cheese, sometimes with pieces of fruit embedded in it. The blue in the name comes from the gentle vein that permeates the cheese. The taste is apparently different each time, and it is said that anyone who eats enough of it regularly experiences peculiarly lurid dreams (and occasionally experiences hallucinations while wide awake). It's popular with certain wizards, apparently allowing them to achieve an altered state where they can see the hidden colours in mundane wind and fire.

Hopefully Imperial merchants will be interested in securing these Faraden luxury delicacies.

==Nergui and Bulangiin==
* '''Ambassador Ebenezer reports on matters related to Faraden citizens in the Empire
The report of ''[[Follow_me_my_friend#Battlefield_Opportunity:_Rescue_Nergui_Enkhtseg|Nergui Enkhtseg's]]'' death is truly upsetting. That the life of the lost trader would end on the Grismont Road is lamentable and a tragedy. Their loss will be mourned by several of the High Lords of Faraden, but they accept that the Empire must have done what it could to rescue the merchant.

On the matter of ''[[Follow_me_my_friend#The_Extra_Bit_(Reinos)|Bulangiin Karadragha]]'', Mistress Singua Karadragha is confused. She asked the [[Champion of Prosperity]], '''Tom Appleseed''' to rescue Bulangiin to avoid having to pay the fifteen throne ransom to ''Geur Tightfisted''. Mistress Singua would much rather encourage the Empire's military units to [[venture#Raid the Jotun|raid the Jotun]] with extra inducement than pay the same amount to a grasping Lasambrian. It is unfortunate that the Lasambrian attempted to inflate the price, assumedly in the understanding that the Empire would benefit from them being the ones to return Bulangiin to Faraden. The Karadragha family have now paid the fifteen throne ransom, and Bulangiin has returned to Faraden.

Regardless, Mistress Karadragha is realistic. Both efforts were long-shots, and any sadness at the apparent failure of the efforts to help Faraden citizens is mitigated by the fact that the Imperial heroes at least ''tried'' to do so. It's unfortunate, but it won't damage Faraden relations or make them more reticent to ask for Imperial aid again if similar circumstances arise.
==Sparks Fly Up==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderRodAndShield.jpg|width=200|align=right}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderCelestialArch.jpg|width=200|align=right}}
</div>
* '''The Muhnkhabat family war wizards will be in Anvil from 15:00 to 18:00 Saturday'''
* '''They wish to see demonstrations of Imperial war magic, and speak to people with relevant titles'''
* '''If there is an opportunity for them to compete with Imperial mages in a test of arms, they would be most honoured to compete.

The [[A pillow of winds#Wizards of the West|Muhnkhabat family]] have sent a delegation of war wizards to The Empire, escorted by the Rod and Shield, to witness Imperial military magic and discuss potential opportunities for collaboration against the Jotun. The Rod and Shield magicians were welcomed warmly, and treated to three days of fine food, martial and athletic contests in which battle-magic was freely used, and many heated hours of argument about the best way to deploy magic - both invocation and ritual - on a battlefield.

Whilst there was potential for this journey to [[A pillow of winds#A Gentle Touch|cause some diplomatic issues]], the presence of the Celestial Arch has kept somewhat of a lid on things, and so far there have been no signs of trouble. The Arch came in particularly useful in persuading the more "gung ho" wizards of both the Muhnkhabat and the Rod and Shield ''not'' to launch an attack on a Jotun outpost that would most likely have led to several deaths and having to do half the journey to the Empire while being pursued by angry orc warriors. The diplomatic magicians also worked hard to smooth over situations where "friendly" contests threatened to get out of control, preventing conflict over matters of religion or history, and temper the general arrogance of the Muhnkhabat when dealing with citizens of the Empire. An exhausting, but ultimately successful, job that sees the Faraden wizards in a more receptive mood when they finally reach Casinea.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=GMRodandShield.jpg|caption='''Sakari Nightscale''', Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=GrandmasterCelestialArch.png|caption='''Xanthippe of the Lighthouse-That-Was''', Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Now the delegation has reached Anvil, they wish to be given a tour of notable places of war magic, as well as meet with key figures in the implementation of the Empire's military magical strategies. The majority of the delegation is enjoying the sights and experiences of [[Anvil#Outer_Anvil|Outer Anvil]], or resting after their long journey. ''Chagataii Muhnkhabat'' (a younger sibling of ''High Lord Ganzorig Muhnkhabat'') will present themselves and a cadre of the families best at the main gate of Anvil at three in the afternoon on Saturday. They expect to be received with all appropriate honours, and will then be at the disposal of their Imperial hosts until around six. Obviously they hope that the Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield '''Sakari Nightscale''' will be available to represent their hosts (and Grandmaster '''Xanthippe Of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' from the Celestial Arch if they think such is necessary).

Chagataii wishes to leave the specifics of the itinerary in the hands of his hosts, but has expressed interest in the following:
* They would like to observe battle mages engaging in contests of war-magic, and if they may be invited to participate themselves to test themselves against their hosts, that would be appreciated. Whilst travelling through the Empire they have heard from some of their honour guard about the Icy Crag Tourney, and are very eager to take part if that is at all possible.
* They wish to visit the Hall of Worlds, and learn more about it and how the Conclave operates
* They want to see the Sentinel Gate and learn of its use and history and how it supports the Empire's battles
* They would greatly appreciate seeing demonstrations of Imperial war magic - especially how the Rod and Shield wield the principle of empowerment (Summer magic) and the power of the Wind (Day Magic) towards battlefield ends
* They will wish to meet the Imperial warmage and the Imperial warcaster, and to gain a greater appreciation of how the Empire's magicians wage war

They will bring with them a small gift as a token of their appreciation. Whatever gifts the Empire chooses fit to bestow in welcome will, of course, be gratefully received.

==Gratitude and Grain==
* '''A large contingent of the Hakhandra merchant family visit the Marches to collect sixteen head of cattle provided by the Ambassador
* '''They plan to establish a regular supply of fine Faraden victuals for the Ambassador going forward
A few weeks after the Spring Equinox, a large band of Faraden warriors turn up in the Marches. They come up through [[Tassato]] and [[Miaren]], giving the western territories a wide berth. They're particularly notable for their deep green coats, and finely died trousers and embroidered shirts. They are also especially gregarious for Faraden, always enthusiastic about stopping at a wayhouse or a roadside establishment to scatter handfuls of Imperial coinage for the chance to sample local delicacies. They are here to collect the sixteen head of cattle that Ambassador Ebenezer has acquired on their behalf. It's obvious that as well as being martially proficient they know their cows. They are members of the Hakhandra family, and they are very pleased. Visiting both Mitwold and Upwold cattle markets, they are at pains to speak with the farmers who raise and transport the cattle - and not only Marchers. There is a fair amount of interest in the [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd#The_Great_Herd|Great Northern Herd]], and efforts to establish the [[Million_miles_of_water#The_Cattle_Markets|Southern Herd]] and the [[Send_for_me#Herds_of_Afar|Herds of Afar]]. Several members lament that they will not have time to actually visit [[Skarsind]], [[Mareave]] or [[Feroz]] - at least not on this trip. The leader of the Faraden contingent -the enthusiastic ''Khutulun Hakhandra'' - makes a point of taking several of their friends to visit Kings Stoke, especially keen to meet '''Steward Watkin''' who was apparently key to ensuring the cattle were all collected.

In addition to the agreed on payment, Khutulun thanks the Ambassador and the embassy staff. The Hakhandra are interested in cementing closer ties with the Marches in particular, to buy the many exotic Imperial delicacies available in the markets of [[Mitwold]] and [[Upwold]] as well as fine Marcher cows, goats, and pigs. In recognition of the work Ebenezer has done, the Hakhandra have arranged for a small amount of equally fine Faraden victuals to be delivered to the [[Segura#The_Faraden_Embassy|Embassy]] in Segura each season. With an eye towards doing more business in future.

Following the Summer Solstice, and continuing as long as good relations with the Hakhandra are maintained, the Ambassador to Faraden will receive two cubes of ''common mooncheese'' and one piece of ''rare mooncheese'' each season. The Civil Service point out that this is clearly a bribe as much as it is a sincere demonstration of gratitude, but that the Faraden don't deny it either. The merchants clearly want to ensure the Faraden ambassador has an interest, no matter how minor, in ensuring good relations with the nation continue. ('''OOC Note:''' The ambassador is welcome to talk about the rare food and drink that forms part of this "hamper", and should feel free to pass off any amount of odd foodstuffs as having been gifted to them by the Faraden herdmasters).
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=A Yak.jpg|align=right|caption=The yak of western Faraden are like very hairy oxen but adapted to live at high altitudes and in cold weather. Their wool, milk, and meat is much prized.|width=400}}</div>
===Yakholme Grange===
* '''The Hakhandra are interested in establishing a permanent trade enclave in Upwold
* '''They are concerned about potential backlash if the project does not have the support of the Marcher Assembly
While they are in [[Upwold#Stockland|Stockland]], Khutulun Hakhandra speaks to the local Marchers about the plan to establish a regular trade route between the cattle markets there and Faraden. There is some caution, even suspicion. And, sadly, not just on either one side. The fiasco around [[Upwold#Moonwater_Hall_(ruins)|Moonwater Hall]] is very much in the minds of both Faraden and Marcher during these discussions. The apparent support of Ambassador Ebenezer - of good solid Marcher stock even if they do live among [[Mitwold|uptight folk who think they are better than they are]] - goes some way toward smoothing over concerns. Some tentative plans for Yakholme Grange are laid out.
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Yakholme Grange'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Upwold#Stockland|Stockland]], Upwold</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 50 wains of [[weirwood]] and 25 [[white granite]], 150 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' Relies on Faraden trade; there are concerns related to religious matters</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment for farms in Upwold by one
* Establishes Stockland as the Empire's premiere cattle market
* Increases Faraden trade with the Marches
</td></tr>
</table></div>
The Grange would be a [[great work]], and estimates are that it would require 50 wains of weirwood and 25 wains of white granite. It would cost 225 crowns in labour, and take six months to complete. It would raise the level of investment in farms in Upwold, increasing the income of every Marcher farm by an additional 36 rings each season. It would also help to put Stockland cattle market on the map - with the Hakhandra bringing some of their own prize bulls for sale here. There is no doubt that it would be the largest and most profitable place to buy farm animals and related products in the Empire.

In addition to the local effects, the market would see an increase in Faraden goods being brought into the Empire. The [[tariffs#Mercantilist|tariffs charged]] on Faraden imports would see an estimated 3 Thrones each season flowing into the [[Imperial treasury]]. It would also cement closer ties between the Marches and the Hakhandra family; a valuable first step toward securing access to the yaks that so fascinate Ambassador Ebenezer.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Marcher.png|width=150|align=right}}
There is however an obstacle. In the past there was conflict between the Faraden and the Empire over matters of faith and religion. The Hakhandra are not missionaries, they do not proselytise. But they are no less faithful to the [[On Faraden faith|Five Flames]] than any other merchant house. There is some concern that old antagonisms might reignite in the Marches who, as Khutulun points out, are nearly as good as the Faraden for remembering past conflicts and holding grudges. It has been suggested that a well worded [[statement of principle]] from the Marcher national assembly might help to allay both the fears of the Hakhandra, and worries among the Marcher folk who are concerned about heretical and blasphemous foreigners coming to Upwold. If such a statment is issued and achieves a [[greater majority]] the upside is obvious - it will not only reduce the likelihood of problems while the Grange is being built and could encourage the Hakhandra to offer material support to the construction. There are also obvious downsides however - if any trouble ''does'' erupt between the Faraden and the Marcher farmers, then people will end up pointing the finger at the Assembly for saying it would be fine.

Obviously, the Assembly might ''not'' favour another group of Faraden heretics establishing a trading base in the Marches. In that case, they might likewise use a statement of principle to encourage the farmers to be leary of the Faraden, and encourage the Hakhandra to take their their cattle market schemes elsewhere. This will sink the Yakholme Grange project, at least in the Marches, provided it achieves a greater majority. The good news is that even if it does end Hakhandra ambitions in the Marches, it won't inspire any kind of political disruption or diplomatic incident unless the language used is extremely vituperative. The Faraden understand the holding of grudges, and the desire to avoid another Moonwater Hall scandal is entirely understandable.

The most important thing is that if the Marcher Assembly chooses to get involved here, the wording of the statement of principle is ''crucial''. It should be as clear as possible what the assembly thinks, and whether they are encouraging or discouraging the Marcher farmers to support the Hakhandra ambition. Otherwise it might all go horribly, horribly wrong.

===Meade and Mithril===
* '''Another opportunity exists for the Alder of Meade to acquire a little mithril in return for iridescent gloaming
Between them Mistress Karadragha and Ambassador Ebenezer were able to secure an arrangement whereby the [[Alder of Meade]], '''Aubrey Shaw''', was able to [[A_pillow_of_winds#Gloaming_Dusk|buy mithril]] from the conservative ''Tseriyn '' merchant family. The Tseriyn were responsible for providing the lion's share of [[mithril]] to the old [[Gloaming Road]]. The deal went off without a hitch; a caravan of Tseriyn mithril was brought to Caitun, loaded onto Imperial ships, and brought to [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]]. Some further negotiations have taken place behind the scenes, and it seems that ''Amulchi Tseriyn'' is prepared to extend this "final arrangement" a little longer. There is less mithril available - in this case 8 wains are available to the Alder to purchase at a cost of 270 [[iridescent gloaming]]. Or, if they prefer, 4 wains for 135 measures of gloaming. As before the trade will pass through Caitun, but the Alder must be aware that the amounts of mithril available are low because the Tseriyn have made other arrangements for the bulk of their metal. ('''OOC Note''' as before if the Alder of Meade wishes to take advantage of this final offer, they should ensure the gloaming is in their account and email {{plot}} before downtime closes).
<div style="float:left; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Actuallythebest001.png|align=left|width=250}}</div>

==Firewind Market==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Faraden Quarter'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Holberg#Holmauer|Holmauer]], Holberg</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 70 [[weirwood]] and 30 [[white granite]], 300 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment for businesses in Holberg by one
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Firewind Prince''
* Permits the creation of Faraden caravanseri along trade routes
* Increases the taxation raised from trade with Faraden by 4 Thrones each season
* Significantly increases the number of Faraden travelling to and visting in Holberg</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: LightGreen;">'''Firewind Prince'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' League</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees Firewind Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To serve as a liason between the Faraden visiting Firewind Market and the people of Holberg; to encourage Faraden merchants to trade with the city; to smooth over any disputes; to make decisions based on any opportunities related to Firewind Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' If the Firewind Prince is not an inhabitant of Holberg, they may begin at a disadvantage when dealing with residents of Holberg caught in a dispute with Faraden merchants </td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Brightfire Market'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>8 crowns</td><td>6 orichalcum, 6 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>12 orichalcum, 12 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>36 crowns</td><td>18 orichalcum, 18 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>55 crowns</td><td>24 orichalcum, 24 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>74 crowns</td><td>30 orichalcum, 30 weltsilver</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Darkfire Market'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>8 crowns</td><td>6 tempest jade, 6 green iron</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>12 tempest jade, 12 green iron</td></tr>
<tr><td>36 crowns</td><td>18 tempest jade, 18 green iron</td></tr>
<tr><td>55 crowns</td><td>24 tempest jade, 24 green iron</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Brightwind Market '''</td></tr>
<tr><td>25 crowns</td><td>1 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 crowns</td><td>2 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>75 crowns</td><td>3 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>100 crowns</td><td>4 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>125 crowns</td><td>5 mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>150 crowns</td><td>6 mithril</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Darkwind Market '''</td></tr>
<tr><td>25 crowns</td><td>1 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 crowns</td><td>2 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>75 crowns</td><td>3 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
With the clear decision of the Holberg Chamber of Commerce to favour the "Iron" option from among those presented to them, work is ready to begin on the Faraden Quarter in [[Holberg#Holmauer|Holmauer]]. The enclave will provide places for Faraden merchants to stay and rest, and establish small [[business|businesses]] of their own if they are so inclined. At the heart of the Quarter will be a large market dedicated to trading Faraden metal to Imperial citizens, in return for the kinds of goods popular in Holberg - Firewind Market. The Quarter will be overseen by a League citizen with the title of ''Firewind Price'' who will liaise with the inhabitants and smooth over any disputes. The Firewind Prince will be appointed by [[Tally of the Votes]] - by League business holders across the nation. Their ministries will allow them to purchase [[Materials#Metals|metal ingots]], and small amounts of mithril and white granite.

This Quarter is a significant undertaking. It will cost the Empire 70 wains of weirwood, 30 wains of white granite, and 300 crowns. The Faraden themselves will provide their own materials and labour to help establish the Quarter, roughly equivalent to that provided by the Empire. Work will take six months to complete.

Mistress Singua is a little apologetic in that the prices charged for the metals are higher than she might like, but that the [[tariffs#Mercantilist|tariffs]] imposed on Faraden imports are a significant contribution. On the other hand, the fact that the Empire ''is'' charging tolls and tariffs to Faraden merchants mean that when the work is completed the contribution from Faraden trade to the [[Imperial treasury]] will increase by 4 Thrones each season as long as trade continues. If the Senate were to move the Faraden to free trade, this contribution would drop, but the cost of the materials at the ministry would also drop.

While there was some concern that the Faraden might not be prepared to deal with the [[orc|orcs]] of the League, or the Sand Fishers of [[Holberg#Misericorde|Misericorde]]. Mistress Karadragha [[A_pillow_of_winds#Orcs_and_False_Flames|addressed these concerns]] by pointing out that any conservative Faraden who did not want to deal with orcs would not come to the Empire anyway. As it is, there is some potential for the Sand Fishers to profit here as well - after all they have a ''lot'' of lumber and wood to sell something the Faraden are known to value. It remains to be seen if they take advantage of this opportunity or not.
===Faraden Caravanseri===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Faraden Trail.png|align=left|caption=The Faraden trail from Segura to Holberg (and back).|width=400}}</div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Faraden Caravanseri'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Segura]], [[Kahraman]], [[Tassato]], [[Miaren]], [[Astolat]], or [[Semmerholm]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' varies based on focus and current level of investment in businesses, farms, or forests</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Open-ended once Faraden Quarter is completed</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' Only one carvanseri can be built per territory; relies on trade with Faraden</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment in the territory for one of businesses, farms, or forests
* Creates a ministry and associated title to purchase Faraden goods
* Increases the taxation raised from trade with Faraden by 2 Thrones each season
* Increases the number of Faraden travelling through and visiting the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Once the Faraden Quarter is completed the ability to create Faraden caravanseri will become available
Once work on the Faraden Quarter in Holberg is complete, it also opens up an opportunity for the Empire to encourage Faraden trade. Most Faraden caravans enter the Empire through Segura - traditionally past the [[Segura_spoils_of_war#Kabalai_Palace|Kabalai Palace]]. The Empires roads are excellent, providing quick and relatively safe travel - especially thanks to the efforts of groups such as the [[Navarr]] [[Venture#Roadwardens|roadwardens]]. The Faraden are happy to stay at [[wayhouse|wayhouses]] and inns along their routes, obviously, but there is a potential to make them feel even more welcome and help bolster trade with the western nation.

A ''Faraden Caravanseri'' could be built in any territory along a route to Holberg. At the moment that means [[Segura]], [[Kahraman]], [[Tassato]], [[Miaren]], [[Astolat]], or [[Semmerholm]]. A Caravanseri is a [[great work]] that supports one of [[business|businesses]] (representing trade with local entrepeneurs), [[farm|farms]] (representing direct purchase of Imperial victuals), or [[forest|forests]] (representing the purchase of forest goods). In the latter case, the great work would still provide 36 rings rather than the normal effect of investment in forests. Furthermore, regardless of which kind of great work is built, up to half the material cost can be in weirwood for those that usually need white granite, or white granite if the great work normally uses weirwood exclusively.

Once complete, a Faraden Caravanseri will serve as something of a hub, encouraging increased numbers of Faraden traders to explore the territory. It would also encourage more merchants to make the trip through the Lasambrian Hills to trade with the Empire in general. As long as Faraden [[tariffs#Mercantilist|pays tariffs]], the amount they contribute to the Imperial Treasury is increased by 2 thrones each season for ''each'' caravanseri. A given territory can only have a single caravanseri, however.

The caravanseri will also create a liaison position, responsible for ensuring good relations between the Faraden and the inhabitants of the territory. They'd need to make sure any disputes were dealt with and in return they would gain access to a small ministry reflecting their ability to purchase Faraden goods from the merchants visiting the caravanseri. At first this would mean metals, similar to those available at the big market in Holberg. If the Empire built other enclaves on a similar scale elsewhere in the Empire, they might be able to gain access to other substances. These titles would be appointed by [[Tally of the Votes]], and as mentioned above the prices they paid for Faraden metals would be raised by the fact the Empire imposes Tariffs on the Faraden.

Finally, each caravanseri will improve diplomatic relations with the Faraden a small amount. While they can be volatile, the overtures of the Empire have been very positive recently. They are also practical - the more of their trade that passes through Imperial lands them more likely they are to want to preserve the status quo.

However, if Holberg Market was ever abrogated or destroyed, the caravanseri would likewise stop operating until it was reopened or a similarly significant enclave established in another city.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBVarushka.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=NationBannerDawn.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
===Further Markets===
* '''There has been some discussion of establishing other major Faraden markets in the Empire
* '''Mistress Karadragha requests confirmation from the Overseer of the Western Road that there is interest in trading fabric and garments with Faraden traders
* '''She also enquires as to whether there might be interest in establishing a victuals market in Dawn
The Court of Five Winds is interested that Ambassador Ebenezer mentioned proposals that Faraden might consider not just an enclave in Holberg, but similar trade hubs in Varushka and the Marches. If Varushka is interested in establishing an enclave on the same basis as Holberg, one that deals primarily in fabric and clothing, that would be very acceptable. They would prefer to spend as little time as possible in the forests of Varushka which they understand are infested with monstrous flesh-eating trees. So it would be ideal to look at building something in [[Karov#Delev|Delev]], especially given the proximity of the new hall extolling the virtue of Varushkan fabric and weaving.

Mistress Karadragha understands that the [[Overseer of the Westward Road]] is a significant figure among the merchants of Varushka. If the Ambassador can confirm that there is interest, Singua will send a speculative group of Faraden to explore the possibilities. ''However'' she will only do so ''after'' work has begun on Firewind Market. Too much time and investment has already taken place for her to switch her attention to a new project with the current one half-completed.

As to a victuals market in the Marches, Mistress Karadragha can see the appeal. She confides that there is also interest in establishing such a concern in [[Dawn]] whose fine wines in particular are considered to be especially luxurious. Is there any interest in the eastern nation at all? That is not to say that something in the Marches could not be discussed - but the Faraden Ambassador would prefer to wait and see how the plans for Yakholme Grange proceed before pushing forward there.

==Paying to be Forward==
* '''Mistress Karadragha seeks introductions to the diplomats of Axos, Skoura, and Otkodov
One other matter of interest related to trade has been raised; there is a great deal of interest in three of the nations that border the Empire to the north and east. Faraden merchants have encountered traders from [[Skoura]], [[Axos]] and [[Otkodov]] while visiting Imperial markets. Mistress Khardraga has a request for Ambassador Ebenezer; would it be possible for the Imperial ambassadors to effect an introduction for Faraden to the diplomats of those three nations? She already has the tools to make cautious contact, but obviously establishing a basis for understanding can take time especially when dealing with unfamiliar cultures.

Obviously the Ambassador to Faraden has limited ability to effect such an introduction, but presumably the Empire has ambassadors to these nations? Mistress Singua believes that if those ambassadors were to vouch for the Faraden to the Skourans, Axou, or Thule that would go some way toward smoothing over that initial period of "getting to know you" and be invaluable in getting to the important part - talking about trade. Equally obviously, this is of some value to the Faraden as a nation - if the Ambassador feels that some sort of gratuity or ''quid pro quo'' were in order, Ebenezer has only to ask and Mistress Karadragha will evaluate the request and decide if it is worth the aid the Empire can offer.

The Imperial Civil Service advise caution; at the moment the Empire controls any access Faraden has to the orcs of the north, or the two smaller nations to the east. While Mistress Karadragha might claim that eventually Faraden will establish its own communication with some or all of these nations, that could easily take years if it succeeds at all. If the Empire introduces the Faraden to these nations, then the Faraden will henceforth deal with these other nations with no reference to the Empire whatsoever. On the other hand, if the Faraden ''do'' establish trade links with Skoura, Axos or Otkodov, any trade will need to go through Imperial lands along Imperial toll roads and over Imperial borders. This might result in a small but steady trickle of additional funding into the Imperial treasury, or bring other benefits if the Ambassadors are shrewd enough in finding ways to exploit this opportunity.

==Flame and Virtue==
* '''Imperial priests have attempted to bolster their peers in Faraden against Asavean propaganda
* '''The Ember Blossoms have returned to Faraden
Last season two proposals relating to faith and religion [[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Matter_Of_Faith|were made]]. One was a possibility for Imperial priests preaching the four virtues similar to four of the Faraden flames- [[Courage]], [[Loyalty]], [[Pride]], and [[Prosperity]] - to support their "peers" in opposing [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] efforts to [[A_pillow_of_winds#Fanning_the_Flames|convince citizens]] that the Asavean and Faraden religions were not as disaparate as they appeared. The second was an offer from a [[bands#sects|sect]] of Faraden [[Malign spiritual presences#Vengeance|Vengeance]] dedicates to [[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Just_World|offer specialist aid in the Archipelago]]. Apparently these ''Ember Blossoms'' felt their particular understanding of encouraging others to take vengeance on those who have oppressed them would be useful in stirring up civil war in the far west.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Courage.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Loyalty.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Pride.png|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|align=right|width=200}}
</div>
===The Flames Burn Brighter===
* '''The cooperation between priests of the Empire and Priests of Faraden has narrowly failed to halt the inroads of the Asaveans.'''
* '''The people of Faraden are still open to attempts by foreign powers to influence them.'''
Last season a coalition of conservative Faraden priests [[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Matter_Of_Faith|approached the Empire]] with a concern, and a proposal. The slimy tentacles of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] sought to get a grip on Faraden society by claiming some sort of commonality between the [[Faraden#Faraden_Religious_Beliefs|Five Flames]] and the [[Asavean gods]], a common trick in the Plenum's cultural arsenal. Outraged by what they saw as a blatant insult to the power of the human spirit and the virtues that guide them, the priests of Faraden invited the Imperial Synod to engage in a series of joint religious celebrations. Priests of [[Courage]], [[Loyalty]], [[Pride]] and [[Prosperity]], the four Virtues that both nations agree to be true, would stand together and reaffirm that despite any differences between the Way and the Five Flames, they could both unite to condemn the scourge of idolatry.

The Imperial Synod spung into action, with all four of the relevant Assemblies passing Virtues urging their congregants to support the actions of those who would preach against the insidious influence of Asavea. Following the Spring Equinox, priests from across the Empire heeded the call and travelled to Faraden, some arriving via the docks at Caitun, some accompanying the caravan transporting representatives of the Rod and Shield and the Celestial Arch in [[A_pillow_of_winds#Wizards_of_the_West|their own diplomatic mission]]. Those who arrive in the first wave find themselves greeted with a certain amount of fanfare - pro-Imperial sentiment is strong, even in a highly factionalised Faraden, and many people are keen to show off their Prosperity by offering food and lodging to honoured guests. The mere fact that the Imperial Synod has deigned to engage with the priests of Faraden as equals is already a major victory.

What follows is a whirlwind tour of different religious events, ranging from intimate family gatherings where the nature of Virtue is discussed over the dinner table to public rallies attended by hundreds of people where dozens of priests are given the chance to witness to the crowd. These events are invariably lively, regardless of the size, and larger assemblies are often attended by musicians, street performers and food vendors, creating a festive atmosphere everywhere the priests go. The Asaveans are nowhere to be seen, although the priests always seem to just be missing them. The visiting Imperials consistently hear that the Asaveans passed through a few days ago, or are likely to visit in a few days time, or are in the same place but on the other side of town.

It does not take long for the more politically astute among the Imperial delegation to cotton on to the highly choreographed nature of the whole affair, how symbols of Faraden art and culture are to be seen everywhere they travel, how the capacity of the Flames to bring joy and comfort is emphasised and conversations about sacrifice and difficult choices are couched in the romantic language of ancient stories and national myths. This is a political event as much as a religious one, and a lot of planning has gone into making it seem as spontaneous as possible.

Yet for all the success of the Imperial delegation, the Asaveans are at least as skilful in their manipulations. Some among their number are pompous and condescending, but many others are passionate, philosophical, or dignified by turns, charming the Faraden crowd at least as much as any of the Imperial preachers. They never question the Empire's right to involve themselves in the affairs of Faraden, a right that the Empire arguably has more claim to than distant Asavea.

Instead they speak of progress, adapting to a changing world, and a willingness to learn from new information. The priests of Asavea recognise that they have much to learn from the faiths of other nations, including those of the Five Flames. How arrogant it would be for them to claim a monopoly over truth, or even over the path that may lead to greater understanding! They do not seek to impose their religion on the people of Faraden, not at all. They simply seek respectful dialogue. And while many citizens of Faraden heed the call of the Empire to return to the fundamental orthodoxies of their faith, just as many speak of openness to dialogue and a potential role for Faraden in an increasingly connected world.

Had even one more congregation supported the mission then the balance might have tipped in the favour of the conservative elements, but it was not to be. The debate is fierce, and continues unabated with little changed as the priests return to their homes.

One more matter arises from this as the season begins to turn. The priests of Faraden are notoriously fractious and hard to organise, lacking a centralised Synod to facilitate decision-making. Despite this, word reaches the Imperial embassy that at a recent gathering at the Palace of the Five Winds, representatives of several major priestly families voted by a narrow margin to extend personal thanks to '''Dagon of the Shattered Tower''', '''Damascius''', '''Kaywenn de Orzel''', and '''Darian Numbers''', the priests who raised the Judgements urging the priests of the Empire to preach in Faraden. There is no material reward, but the messengers to the embassy are keen to emphasise how rare such a gesture of respect is.

===Embers Burn Low===
* '''The Ember Blossoms have declined the Empire's invitation to pass on their skills at resisting and undermining those in power.'''
{{SOP|statement=Freeborn corsairs should not be transporting the Ember Blossoms of Asavea. We do however invite the Ember Blossoms, expert and experienced fomentors of rebellion against tyrants and oppressors to come to the Empire to teach Imperials their skills so we can better incite rebellion and uprisings in Asavea. The preaching of Justice remains illegal.|by=Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra, Freeborn Assembly|vote=78-28|when=Spring Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The Ember Blossoms are an independent group of agitators looking for passage to Asavea in order to precipitate a peasant’s revolt there. They are approaching Freeborn corsairs to smuggle them in. The Freeborn Assembly endorses this action.|by=Caspian i Sharthra i Riqueza, Freeborn Assembly|vote=68-58|when=Spring Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
[[A_pillow_of_winds#A_Just_World|The second approach]] made by religious devotees of Faraden last season was less successful. The ''Ember Blossoms'', a militant sect of Faraden vigilantes who target those who use their power to oppress the poor and downtrodden, sought assistance from the Freeborn National Assembly to travel to Asavea and use their skills to incite the slaves of the Plenum to recognise the numerous outrages perpetrated against them, and to rise up in the spirit of Courage, Pride, and Justice.

The Priests of the Brass Coast endorsed two statements of principle on the matter, one [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_145|endorsing the transportation of the Ember Blossoms]] and [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_124|one refusing it]]. The second statement suggested that the militants might instead teach their skills to operatives of the Empire, a sentiment apparently echoed by certain Imperial worthies who spoke to representatives of the Ember Blossoms at the Spring summit. A neat compromise, perhaps, but one that the Ember Blossoms have refused.

The message from the Ember Blossoms makes it clear that while they do not take the refusal personally, they recognise the simple truth: that the Empire wants their skills, but does not recognise what it took to forge them. If the Empire trusted the Ember Blossoms, they would accept their assistance as it was offered. They have not done so, and so that trust is not there. It is understandable. Trust is earned, and the Empire do not know the Ember Blossoms. But the Ember Blossoms are under no obligation to twist their skills to make them more palatable to others. Faraden may not be able to match the Empire in terms of size or wealth, but their [[Pride]] stands as the equal to any of the Empire's virtuous souls. It is a shame to not be accepted into the Empire's project to liberate Asavea, but it would be far more shameful not to be accepted on an even footing.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Fire Whirl.jpg|align=right|caption=Some [[Faraden]] hold grudges against the Empire and see them as a threat that must be dealt with.|width=400}}</div>
==Scattered Cinders==
* '''A group of discontented Faraden nationalists called the Cinders have attempted to assassinate the Champion of Vigilance.'''
* '''The Liege of the Five Winds has unconditionally denounced these actions, and denied any links between this group and the Faraden state.'''

Of all the people in the Empire to attempt to assassinate, the [[Champion of Vigilance]] has to rank as one of the worst choices. Despite this, it seems that some souls, perhaos courageous, perhaps foolish, perhaps both, took a shot at doing so at the Spring Equinox. By all accounts the Champion, currently Jared, is fine, alert as he is to all dangers, within and without. Details of the attack and its aftermath are somewhat garbled, and any who wish to know more should probably consult Jared himself, but perhaps more notable is the fact that the would-be assassins were citizens of Faraden, a revelation that has caused some consternation in diplomatic circles.

While the Ambassador to Faraden did not choose to bring up the incident in their missive, the fact of it has still spread. By all accounts the staff at the Faraden embassy have quickly begun sending somewhat frantic winged messengers back home in order to determine whether anyone knows who might be responsible. This may be the one good thing about Faraden's cultural preoccupation with Justice: they are very keen to determine who is responsible for any wrongdoing. And as it happens, the perpetrators are not backwards about identifying themselves. Back in Faraden, far away from any of the events organised by the priestly coalition that invited the Empire, a group called the Cinders has reared its head and begun bragging about 'striking back against the blasphemers who submit to the False Virtues of [[Ambition|Selfishness]], [[Vigilance|Paranoia]], and [[Wisdom|Doubt]].' In the understated words of the embassy staff, this is probably not a coincidence.

Further information is quick to be provided. The Cinders are a deeply reactionary group within Faraden whose primary belief is that society has become 'decadent' and 'too accepting of foreign blasphemy'. The charge of decadence is met with some derision - what humourless fool would decry enjoying a little luxury now and then? Does Prosperity not teach us to enjoy the fruits of our labours? Still, their ultra-orthodox stance on the Flames has always had some supporters, and a message of toughness and self-reliance can appeal to the insecure. The Cinders have gone through cycles of acceptance and suppression, but like a particularly resilient weed, they always seem to pop up again where they are least expected.

Regardless of their history, attempted murder against a foreign dignitary is too far for the Liege of the Five Winds. Tchinua Ganbatar, the Liege of the Five Winds, issues a public statement decrying the actions of the Cinders in taking up arms against a person who has done them no wrong. They call on all citizens of Faraden to shun these troublemaking fanatics who offer no solutions to the nation's problems, only an endless cycle of violence and alienation from powerful allies.

Despite their strong words, however, the gesture is largely symbolic. While the Liege of the Five Winds is powerful, the authority to suppress the Cinders lies with the individual families, as it must do for civil society to function. The more vocal and less prudent members of the sect may be caught and punished, but their leaders will go back underground and their supporters will shield them, as they always have. Even this public condemnation will be used in their propaganda to paint them as truth-speakers being punished by those in thrall to unwholesome outside influences. Being unable to operate openly will impede their activities, but they will almost certainly be back. Citizens of the Empire should remain watchful.
{{Faraden Links}}

Talking to friends

2025-07-22T00:27:47Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* An Olive Branch */ 'And' 'Letter'

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>There was no need to count; the outcome was obvious. Still, the scribes did their duty and recorded the numbers anyway. Normally, when a vote was carried so overwhelmingly there would have been cheering and celebration. Today, the floor of the Plenum chamber was almost eerily silent. A few murmurs and mutters, a heavy sigh. The footsteps of the Mater Coriolani as she strode out of the chamber, her face a mask of fury.

"This is humiliating." Titus turned away from the gallery, fists clenched.

"Yes." Said Lavinia.

"This cannot stand! If this was the old days-" His daughter cut him off. If she had done this in public it would have meant censure but he encouraged her to speak her mind when they were alone, valued her counsel and the directness the Spring realm gave her.

"It isn't the old days, though, father."

Titus growled, collapsing onto one of the couches. He hitched up his toga, put his head in his hands and stared at nothing in particular.

"You sound like an Ilotari," he grumbled. But his anger had subsided a little.

"Ha!" There was no mirth in Lavinia's laugh. "Not even the Ilotari are pleased that it has come to this. They're reformists, not idiots."

"These last few years..." Titus trailed off. "Who are we, Lavinia? What happened to the heirs of Asav. The Sumaah; the Commonwealth and the Empire; now the damn ''tomb robbers'' have banded together - a pack of vultures picking at our corpse. Our only real allies are a bunch of magicians who think rituals are the answer to every problem. We're reduced to lending warships to pirates. Even a nation of ''farmers'' fought off the pride of the Asavean navy! Farmers!"

"Times change." Lavinia sat next to him, put her hand on his shoulder. "We have to change with them."

"Once upon a time we'd have sent a flotilla to burn their damn cities to the ground. Drag a tenth of their people off in chains. Burn their temples if they didn't surrender, install a governor if we needed to keep the peace..." His tone was nostalgic. Lavinia did not think it wise to remind him that nothing on that scale had happened in a century or more. Titus tone grew bitter. "And now they are doing it to us! To us, Lavinia! Sending their ships and their soldiers to burn our cities, pushing their faith, killing the Tarquinius, trying to replace the Plenum with what... elected Senators? Praster? Ridiculous! Unacceptable!"

Lavinia waited for his anger to blow itself out. She loved her father very much but he lived in the past. If Asavea was to survive, they would need to look to the future.

"We tried the old way," she said quietly. "And it made everyone feel better for a while, but what did it actually achieve?"

"So what do you think, daughter? We should just... accept it? Accept that we are a laughing stock, an irrelevancy?"

His daughter smiled, a severe, cold smile, and patted Titus' hand.

"Oh, no father. No. But as grandmother said; when war fails, you may put your sword away, but you ''keep fighting''. There's some people I'd like you to meet, Pater Familia. I think you'll find their ideas ''very'' interesting."</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|caption=Across the Sea of Salt, two nations caught in eternal rivalry by a net of history and faith.|align=right|width=450}}</div>
==Overview==
Each season the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the Senate and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

==Asavea==
* '''The Asavean Archipelago is an empire scattered across a sprawling archipelago, far across the ocean to the west'''
* '''Traditional enemies of the Sumaah, they are at war with both them and the Empire'''
* '''The Empire is sending missionaries to the Archipelago and looking to overthrow the ruling Plenum'''
The Asavean Ambassador to the Empire is ''Lady Madrianna of the Blue Stones''. An important member of one of ruling families of Asavea, she advises the Plenum on diplomatic matters, especial relations with the Empire and their close neighbours. It is Lady Madrianna who has encouraged the Asaveans to make common cause with the Grendel and who is behind efforts to suborn the Faraden.
{{Nation|nation=[[Asavean Archipelago]]|status=Barbarian|port=[[Asavean_Archipelago_ports|Nemoria]] (closed)|ambassador=Vacant}}
===State of War===
* '''The Asavean Archipelago and the Empire are at war
* '''The Asaveans are supporting the Grendel, and attempting to convert the Faraden to their cause'''
* '''The ongoing attempt of missionaries to proselytize the Way continues to enrage the Asaveans'''
Imperial relations with the [[Asavean Archipelago]] could hardly be worse. The Asaveans declared war on the Empire some time ago - a response to the [[Mosaic|attack on Chalonsio]] by the combined forces of the [[Liberty Pact]]. Determined to exact revenge, they sent huge warships to Imperial waters, looking to sack an Imperial city in lex talionis for their own losses. Their [[Harvest of infamy|attack on Meade]] failed, but they were instrumental in helping the [[Grendel]] take [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] and then [[A beacon of smoke|burning that city to the ground]], to the dismay of their Grendel allies.

Much of their strategy in recent months has been focused on piracy - aiming to cripple Imperial trade on the high seas. These attempts have caused some trouble for the Imperial treasury, and created obstacles for the Empire's various trading partners. Now the Asaveans have been forced to abandon this strategy by the [[Can%27t_give_everything_away#An_Ultimatum|intervention]] of the [[Sarcophan Delves]], a humiliating climbdown for the notoriously proud Plenum. All this on top of the [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#A_Bond_Between_Sailors|defeat of the Asavean navies]] at Zemeh, where the Empire came to the aid of their Sumaah allies... it has likely put the Plenum on the back foot.

For their part the Empire responded to the fury of the Asaveans by [[Irreconcilable_differences|sending missionaries to the islands]] with members of the [[Sevenfold Path]] looking for [[One of us|ways to make contact with magicians in the islands]] who might be interested in [[the Way]]. The [[Loyalty]] Assembly has tried to make contact with [[Two suns in the sunset|groups who are looking to overthrow the Plenum]], the ruling council of the Asavean Archipelago, and ideally begin a fiery revolt against the corrupt ruling classes.

Into this febrile mix have come the communications from '''Mauriac of Eyrie'''. In recent times the Asaveans have largely ignored efforts by the Empire to communicate through official channels - but something about the tone of the missive appears to have inspired a change of tune. It would be dangerous to overstate what this means - the Asavean Plenum is never going to make peace with an Empire that is hellbent on destroying their nation by inciting rebellion and religious revolt. For as long as the missionaries continue to travel to Asavea, they are certain to remain implacably hostile to the Empire.

The door is not exactly open to diplomacy, but it is at least off the latch... for now.

===An Olive Branch===
* '''The wise letter sent to Asavea has been well received by the Plenum'''
* '''The Asaveans are open to discussing terms to end the war, provided the Empire ceases sending missionaries to their shores'''
* '''If the Empire continue on their current course, the Asasveans will increase their military support for the Grendel'''
Lady Madriana has sent communications to their Imperial counterpart to let them know that the Plenum is open to the possibility of a cessation of the current conflict - either temporary or better still permanent. As far as the Plenum are concerned the outrageous attack on Chalonsio has been answered by the [[A beacon of smoke|destruction of Siroc]]. The senseless destruction of profitable businesses and the losses incurred when the city was looted have been accounted for by the damage inflicted on Imperial shipping. [[Malign spiritual presences#Vengeance|Justice]] as the [[Faraden]] would put it - has been served. Both sides could find a way to end this pointless brutality ''before it escalates further...''

The Plenum have therefore decided to be magnanimous - and to offer the possibility of peaceful resolution to the current war. As a sign of their good intentions, says Lady Madriana, the Plenum has voted to remove the bounties placed on vessels trading with the Empire, so that this will not be an impediment to any negotiation.

If the Empire wishes to pursue the avenue of peace, then as a first step, they must immediately cease all attempts to spread the Way to Asavea. There are no circumstances under which Asavea will negotiate with the Empire while they continue to threaten the authority of the Plenum in this way. Thus far the effects have been negligible, the Asavean Ambassador claims, but the heirs of Asav are not to be trifled with in this way.

Were a peaceful resolution possible, the Asaveans would be prepared to consider withdrawing their military support for the [[Grendel]] and perhaps even to look at reopening their ports to Imperial shipping.

Lady Madriana warns the Empire that the Plenum are prepared to continue their current war with the Empire for as long as necessary, should they reject this generous offer. Now that their privateers and fleet captains are no longer engaged against Imperial shipping they are in a position to consider increasing their support for the Grendel - and they will not hesitate to do so if the Empire does not change course.

Of course, the ''truth'' is that the Asaveans have stopped attacking Imperial ships because of threats from the Sarcophan Delves - the ''Pax Sarcophan''. Even so, this communication represents a change in tone by the Asaveans, something in the letter to Lady Madrianna has clearly struck a chord.

Whether that chord becomes part of a more harmonious melody remains to be seen. Mauriac's respectful letter has been well received by the Plenum and achieved as much as is possible with a letter. However unless the Empire changes their tune, the Asaveans are certain to redouble their efforts. Humiliated by the Sarcophan, they will want to demonstrate that they remain a great power to be taken seriously. If the Empire doesn't take this opportunity for peace, they can expect the Asaveans to increase their military support for the Grendel.

===The Factions Listen===
* '''The Empire knows of six factions willing to contribute to the overthrow of the Plenum'''
* '''The Regario Dossier assigned agents to investigate the Bells of Becephelas, the Lost Weepers, and the Mikanos'''
Last season, the Empire uncovered three more [[Asavean factions]] who would be willing to work with the Empire to spread the Way to Asavea and ultimately overthrow the Plenum. Three of these groups - the [[Asavean_factions#The_Bells_of_Becephelas|Bells of Becephelas]], the [[Asavean_factions#The_Cerularios|Cerularios]], and the [[Asavean_factions#The_Mikanos|Mikanos]] - are magicians that profess to be curious about the Way. All of them appear to be potential allies, but the Empire has been warned by the [[Whisper Gallery]] that one of them is lying - one of the three groups described below are double-agents who are actually loyal to the Plenum. The other three groups - the [[Asavean_factions#The_Children_of_Asav|Children of Asav]], the [[Asavean_factions#The_Lost_Weepers|Lost Weepers]], and the [[Asavean_factions#The_Satrapy_of_Ibaria|Satrapy of Ibaria]] - are those who could be persuaded to take up arms against the Plenum, and uncovered by the Loyalty Assembly.

The [[Regario Dossier]], '''Albrecht von Holberg''', took the [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#The_Refined_Dossier|opportunity]] to redirect three agents to investigate and establish links with the Bells of Becephelas, the Lost Weepers, and the Mikanos. The work done by the agents of the Dossier and their handlers has borne early fruit; '''Albrecht von Holberg''' will receive names and locations for each of three groups suitable for use with [[Call Winged Messenger]] at the Summer Solstice. The information will spread after the summit, and anyone will be able to find out the names and locations. '''OOC Note:''' We will add the targets to the [[Asavean factions]] page.

==Sumaah==
* '''The Sumaah Republic is an empire devoted to an orthodox interpretation of the Way'''
* '''The Empire recently helped to fend off a major naval assault by the Asaveans seeking to burn a Sumaah city'''
The [[Sumaah Republic]] are simultaneously allies of, and rivals to, the Empire. Their shared practice of the Way both provide them with common ground, and divides them over questions of orthodoxy. As founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]], their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their own war with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

The Sumaah ambassador to the Empire is ''Oxtitocszin'', who holds the rank of Censor of wood, metal and stone and is a member of the High House of Pride (the Sumaah equivalent of the Pride Assembly, but with significantly more responsibility and leeway to pursue foreign diplomacy). They advise not just the Sumaah ''präster'', but the House of the People (the Sumaah equivalent of the Imperial Senate). By all accounts they are an even-handed, level-headed individual, and a devout practitioner of the Way.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sumaah Republic]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sumaah_Republic_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]]|ambassador=Accalon of [[Highguard]]}}
===Build Up Their Fellows===
* '''Relations with the Sumaah are currently stronger than ever'''
* '''The Empire now receives a dose of true liao each season from Sumaah in gratitude for aid against the Asavean armada'''
The Sumaah Republic are [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|at war]] with Asavea and face the threat of invastion from their northern neighbours who once ruled much of Sumaah through the use of corrupt proxies. The war is unlikely to end decisively, the Asavean [[Imperial army|armies]] are no match for the disciplined soldiers martialled by the House of [[Courage]], but the Asavean navies [[Imperial navy|navies]] badly outnumber the Sumaah.

The Asaveans attempted to overcome the Sumaah defences at sea, hoping to expose the coastline so that they could carry out a lightning raid against a Sumaah city. The Asavean Plenum sought retribution for the Sumaah role in the [[Mosaic|attack on Chalonsio]]. They intend to raze a Sumaah city as they did to Siroc. Last season the Empire played a decisive role in disrupting the Asavean assault, sending hundreds of small [[fleet|fleets]] to help the Sumaah navy fight the Asaveans off. Scores of Asavean ships were sunk and the Imperial captains returned home triumphant.

The gratitude of the Sumaah is deep and heartfelt. In thanks for the Imperial aid, they have sent a dose of precious [[true liao]] to the Empire and indicated that they will now do so every season until the Plenum falls and the Way is spread to the Archipelago (something that would take many years if it were possible at all). Relations with the grateful Sumaah, which have been bumpy in the past, are now better than ever.

===The Ambassadors Letter===
* '''The Sumaah are non-plussed by the tone of the Ambassador's letter'''

The sharp tone of the Ambassador's most recent letter has surprised the Sumaah and left them uncertain of how best to respond. As the ambassador has spoken of a shared duty to the truth, they have tried to respond in kind.

They are pleased to hear that '''Eleri of Bronwen's Rest''' has had a vision that speaks to the Ascension of [[the Marked]] and that '''Coal Carefoot''' has had a vision that they once lived as Alina, royal guard of the Sumaah Crown. The Sumaah are always grateful to receive information of the [[Past life vision|past life visions]] that Imperial citizens have had, although they find the ''excellent'' [[Seer_of_the_Gateway#Publication_2|Echoes of the Labyrinth]] published by the [[Seer of the Gateway]] more than meets their needs in this matter. It is unfortunate that the Senate has decided to [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Abrogate_Distribution_of_Echoes_of_the_Labyrinth|stop supporting the dissemination of these accounts]] around the world.

On the matter of the item provided by '''Ehud of Reumah's Redoubt''', they are grateful for an opportunity to examine the [[Magic_items#Schema|schema]] and will of course arrange for its return at the Autumn Equinox as requested. They have not mentioned recently, indeed they have sent few communications in recent months as they have been preoccupied by the threat of invasion from the Asaveans and the attendant risks.

===Anchoring the Way===
* '''The Sumaah are convinced that attempting to work together to anchor the Way is too risky'''
On the matter of anchoring the Way in Asavea, the Sumaah are adamant that it is best if the Empire and the Sumaah each proceed with their own plans. The Empire shares the Way with Sumaah, they are siblings in faith. But like two siblings dwelling in the same house, brother and sister can still argue, and the conflict between them can be the most terrible of all. The Sumaah disagree with the Empire on numerous articles of faith - the Sumaah are orthodox and traditionalists where the Empire have pursued a revisionist approach to the faith.

It is the view of the Sumaah that they currently enjoy excellent relations with the Empire precisely because the two nations have agreed to pursue the Way separately. Now that neither side feels compelled to correct the other on matters of faith, they can concentrate on what they have in common. Working together to create the Liberty Pact, to break the slave trade, to defeat the Asaveans at sea, these are all worthy goals around which the two nations can unite.

But converting the Asaveans to the Way would require the Empire and the Asaveans to work side by side for years. They would be like brother and sister forced to dwell together in their parents home. How would they agree on which version of the Way should be spread? Should it be the Imperial Way or the Sumaah Way? What happens, when two years into this great project, the Empire and the Sumaah discover some fundamental point of disagreement on which they cannot agree? Inevitably they will fall out about it, and when that happens then the entire scheme will likely collapse. There will be recriminations on both sides, and everyone the two sides have tried to support will probably end up dead. It is clear that the Sumaah take a pessimistic view of this suggestion to put it lightly.

Bluntly, the view of the Sumaah is that to suggest this shows a lack of careful consideration. The Empire have focused on all the benefits the two nations might gain by working together and given no thought at all to the countless way this could go wrong. While that might suit the confident optimism of the Empire, the Sumaah take a much more dismal view of the prospects of cooperation on this. They are focusing on all the many ways they can see in which it could go wrong and the risks that would entail - to relations between the Empire and Sumaah and more importantly to the hopes of salvation for the Asavean people.

In their mind attempting to work together to convert the Asaveans - after both nations had agreed to work separately on this great goal - is a failure of [[Wisdom]]. The fact that they've levelled this pointed insult, they feel illustrates their point perfectly. Merely discussing it is leading to friction...

They wish the Empire every success. They will genuinely be overjoyed in the Empire spreads the Imperial Way to Asavea. They won't support that effort becsuse they are busy with their own efforts to take the Sumaah Way to Asavea. These efforts will continue until every Asavean is brought to the Way, regardless of what the Empire attempt or achieve in this matter.

===Abrasion Oil===
* '''The Sumaah do not have the same view of excommunication as the Empire'''
On the matter of Abrasian oil, there are polite eyebrows raised. The Sumaah have noted in the past that there are parts of the Empire that believe things that are blatantly [[Religious crime#Heresy|heretical]], like the idea that people reincarnate as trees, or fish, or that their spirits dwell in swamps. These ideas are patently absurd and deeply offensive to any devout follower of the Way - but in recent times the Sumaah have tried to avoid pointing out how heterodox these far-flung parts of the Empire are, because trying to reconcile their two faiths was leading to difficulties.

But now the Imperial ambassador wants to discuss the creation of Abrasian oil, a rare substance developed by the Präster who live in Nyaerdivik, which is a hard-to-reach settlement on the very edge of the Sumaah Republic? The request has surprised Oxtitocszin, not least because he has no idea how the Empire even ''found'' Nyaerdivik, a location the majority of people living in Sumaah could not point to on a map.

However, since the Ambassador has insisted on answers, the Präster of Nyaerdivik are quite... unorthodox. They have something of an ''obsession'' with bread, which other Sumaah do find to be very odd. They don't worship bread, or anything blasphemous, but it plays a central role in their culture in a way that bemuses outsiders. However the House of the People have examined the beliefs of the Präster of Nyaerdivik on two seperate occasions and found them to be entirely compatible with the Way. Odd certainly, but Oxtitocszin once had an uncle who believed that a condor that lived near his home was mourning for its lost mate. People believe odd things, not all of them are at odds with the Way.

On the matter of [[excommunication]] and the power of Abrasian Oil, the ambassador is surprised to hear their counterpart express such radical views with such certainty. There are Präster in Sumaah who believe that excommunication makes a soul unable to pass onwards but they are far from the majority. The only thing that is known for certain is that it renders the soul unable to use [[Religious skills|liao ceremonies]], and prevents dreaming, but nobody truly knows what happens to the soul of one who is excommunicated. Such things are ultimately a matter of philosophy and most importantly - faith. Does the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Labyrinth|Doctrine of the Labyrinth]] not say that ''the Labyrinth of Ages is a place of pure spirit and beyond the true comprehension of any but a paragon''?

The accepted view is that excommunication can be a just punishment that is merited in the most serious of cases where nothing less will suffice. There is a popular belief that it ''might'' assist passage. [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The Doctrine of the Seven|The Doctrine of Seven]] states that "Other qualities may benefit humanity, but lend no aid through the passage of death to rebirth, and ''some may hinder it''." That last part is often taken to mean that unvirtuous acts hinder the soul's passage, indelibly marking the soul as unvirtuous, delaying rebirth. Excommunication of someone whose deeds are so terrible that they warrant this fate may disconnect the soul from the unvirtuous acts they have taken, allowing it to be reborn without the stain of an ill-spent past life dragging the soul down both in the Labyrinth and, potentially, in future lives.

Of course there are also some Präster that believe those who commit the most heinous acts need to spend time in the Labyrinth. Here the Präster tend to fall to arguments on the role of the Labyrinth and the spiritual value of punishment and its role in redemption and recidivism in a way that the Ambassador is not certain is a useful topic for diplomacy between two great nations, even if they do share the Way.

It ''may'' be true that excommunication severs a soul from the Labyrinth, though nobody can be sure. If that is the case, is it not appropriate that such people are excluded from the Labyrinth? Is that not a fitting end for those who have proven themselves to be entirely without Virtue? Virtue is contagious, but so is vice. Wicked deeds spread, so the worst criminals are a danger to the future generations, so arguably it is ''better'' to stop their reincarnation, to save future generations from the influence of such an unvirtuous soul.

The Ambassador notes that they have exchanged letters with the Empire on the matter of excommunication before. The truth is that nobody knows what the ultimate effects of excommunication are, just as nobody can be certain they know what the ultimate effects of [[testimony]] or [[dedication]] are. These are, ultimately, matters of faith. Nobody should trifle with the human soul, that much is clear, but in the Republic, excommunication is often a prelude to execution - an indication that your deeds are beyond the pale. It's not something the Republic takes lightly. Oxtitocszin is not sure there is anything further to be said on this subject.
{{Asavean Links}}
{{Sumaah Links}}

Waiting for the worms

2025-06-09T23:05:32Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Bears Under Sail */ Stray Brackets

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Sarcophan]]
<ic>"I am sorry Bedelaar Huisbaas" Johann said shaking his head. "I tried my best but there was no persuading their ambassador. They were suffused with an excess of caution, and a great deal of political conservatism. Essentially they wanted to make the sanctions optional, and I couldn't see how that could work. I thought..."

Annike silenced him with a wave of her hand. "You made the right call," she said. "A dog can't bite if it has no teeth. The entire thing rests on the threat of economic force to prevent exactly the sort of thing the Asaveans are doing. Without that the Pact sinks before it ever leaves port."

Johan nodded quickly, relieved that his mistress agreed with him.

The bedelaar huisbaas stirred her tea, the spoon clinking against the thin china. She leant back, cupping the saucer in her hands, and looked at Johann with appraising eyes. "Did you get a sense whether their concerns were genuine or were they were just trying to let us down gently?"

"Hard to say for sure." Johan swiftly ran through the highlights of his meetings at Anvil in his head. "I ''think'' they genuinely thought it would be a problem. That they couldn't risk being caught between the principles of the Liberty Pact and our proposal if one of the other signatories decided to blockade an Asavean or Jarmish port. I'm sorry, but I cant be certain."

"No need to apologise Johann. It's not your fault. We can only work with whatever materials are on hand." She raised the delicate cup to her lips and took a short sip, savouring the bitterness for a moment, gathering her thoughts as she did so before continuing.

"The guilds will simply ''have'' to raise prices - it's a shame because it'll look like we're being petty, but there really is no choice. Mercenaries do not work for free - and nor should they. But the balance sheet must still be balanced." She sighed deeply, swirling the dark liquid in her cup as she peered into its depths as if the path to the future lay within it. "Still, at the end of things, the Empire and their allies started this stupid war with the Asaveans, so they're just going to have to tighten their belts and pay the price. The worst thing is that it looks as if the Asaveans might win this round, and that's the thing I find hardest to countenance."</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Scarabaeus laticollis 2.jpg|align=left|caption=One person's rubbish is another person's gold.|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
Each season the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the Senate and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

The merchant-princes of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - the ''bedelaar huisbaas'' - strive for neutrality. They are enthusiastic about trade with the Empire, but their neutrality is precious to them. They hold it a mark of pride that they will deal with anyone who has goods, services, or money. While they have given up the practice of slavery without regret, they refuse to pick a side between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the Freedom Accord. Their primary goal is to ensure the ports of the world remain open to their ships, ideally with [[Tariffs#Free_Trade|free trade]] agreements that allow their merchants to operate without onerous [[tariffs]].

The Sarcophan ambassador to the Empire is ''Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike'', of the Tower of Crows. She reports to the beggar-landlords of Sarcophan, and is known to be a wily and subtle diplomat. No stranger to the murkier waters of espionage and intelligence-gathering, she constantly seeks opportunities to expand the influence of the Sarcophan mercantile Empire across the Known World. She has no particular loyalty to any one faction; her main concern appears to be the prosperity of the nation as a whole.

The new Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves is '''Dino i Riqueza''' of [[the Brass Coast]], a former [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] whose name is known to Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike. She tenders her congratulations to Ambassador Dino on their appointment.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sarcophan Delves]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Sarcophan|Sarcophan]] and [[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Betovering|Betovering]]|ambassador= Dino i Riqueza of [[the Brass Coast]]}}
==A Sunken Pact==
* '''The Sarcophan wanted to create a new international pact to deal with piracy the way the Liberty Pact has dealt with slavery'''
* '''The ambassador has pointed out potential conflict with the Liberty Pact, and suggests the agreement would need extensive modification to be appealing to the Senate'''
* '''The Sarcophan at disappointed that the proposed pact has sunk at the first sailing are looking to other options'''
As a response to the ongoing attacks by [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]]-funded privateers on ships trading with the Empire, the Sarcophan sought Imperial support for an [[Theory of the crows#A New Pact|internation agreement]]. The pact, which would have outlawed piracy on the High Seas the same way the [[Liberty Pact]] has outlawed slavery, would require support from all (or at least the majority of) the great powers of the Known World. The Sarcophan have dubbed their treaty the ''Free Seas Pact'' and proposed a number of terms for discussion. The ultimate goal of the Delves was for all the great powers of the world to sign their Free Seas Pact. They designed the terms of the Pact to be compatible with those of the Liberty Pact - as they understood the need to make sure there was no conflict between the two treaties.

Johann Van Basten visited Anvil to discuss the matter with the Sarcophan ambassador, in the hope of securing Imperial support before approaching other nations. Unfortunately for the Delves it seems the outcome of the meeting was less than the Delves might have hoped. According to Ambassador Dino, there was a general feeling that while an anti-piracy agreement is good in theory, the current proposal would cause problems with the Liberty Pact. Specifically, the Ambassador felt there was a conflict with the free trade clause of the Liberty Pact, and the Free Seas Pact’s requirement to block trade with those nations responsible for attacking the trading vessels of other nations. The Ambassador suggests that, to pass the [[Imperial Senate]] the Free Seas Pact would need to allow for signatories to debate and agree on specific actions. Unfortunately, that modification would make the pact useless in the view of Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike, as the entire point of the exercise was to create a ratchet that forced the great powers to sign up to outlawing piracy one by one. They believe the changes the Empire were seeking would render the pact impotent, not least because several of the great powers whose support would be needed to make the pact work, hate one another. It seems the Free Seas Pact has foundered, before it has completed its maiden voyage.

Annike does, however, thank the Ambassador for their offer to consult with other Liberty Pact nations and canvas for opinions. The Delves obviously plan to do the same thing themselves, but appreciate the Empire may have more sway with the [[Commonwealth]] and [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] in this regard. It is clear from the tone of her missive, however, that she is not at all hopeful and has already moved on to other possibilities.

The Delves are disappointed by the failure of the Pact, but they are a deeply pragmatic people. They would never allow this failure to affect a profitable relationship with the Empire, they will simply move their focus to other affairs. Of course if the Empire are able to recover the Free Sea Pact, it would be a diplomatic triumph, but that doesn't seem likely now.
==Passing Costs Along==
* '''The prices of Sarcophan goods imported through a number of ministries are set to rise by as much as a fifth'''
Since the Asavean Plenum launched its attack on vessels trading with the Empire, the major Sarcophan routes - those maintained by the ''Kruidenkenner'' and the ''Vandersaar'' - have held steady thanks to a concerted effort by the Delves to protect their ships from Asavean bounty hunters. As they have warned before, however, the Delves' merchants cannot afford the additional costs this imposes forever and it now looks as if they may be forced to scale back their operations until matters between the Empire and the Asaveans are resolved.

As such, Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike regretfully informs the Empire that the prices charged by Sarcophan merchants visiting the Empire are likely to have increased by as much as a fifth by the time of the Summer Solstice. This is likely to affect the [[ministry|ministries]] maintained by the [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster]], [[High Herbalist of Sybella]], [[Master of the Root and Stem]], [[Master of the Clearing House]], [[Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks]], and [[Custodian of the Concordium Dock]]. Again, it is likely the prices will subside once the Asavean situation is dealt with, but for now the requirement to employ additional warships to protect Sarcophan trade routes with the Empire means that costs will have to be passed along to their Imperial customers.

It is perhaps unsurprising then that the proposal to [[Hyenas_and_herbs#Mead_and_Mazzarine|expand the Kruidenkenner magazijn]], and similar offers made over the last few seasons, have regretfully been withdrawn by the Kruidenkenner - the wealthy Sarcophan guild of apothecaries and herbalists. As trade with the Empire is becoming increasingly difficult, they are focusing their interests elsewhere or the time being. This is unfortunate, as the Sarcophan herb masters are obviously intrigued by the establishment of the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]] - once trade with the Empire is more secure, says their spokesperson, they will be interested in talking to the Guild about the potential for establishing closer ties.

The [[Steel Fist]] will not be affected at this time; the benefits the entire Sarcophan nation gain from the agreement that were bought with the regular provision of [[ilium]] from the waters of the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Teeth|Sea of Teeth]] are substantial enough that the bedelaar huisbaas themselves are prepared to meet the costs for protecting the ship that delivers the star metal.
===Bears Under Sail===
* '''The Senate has approved the redesign and renaming of the Pallas Docks, allowing the deBruin family to import Sarcophan Weirwood'''
* '''The martial Debruin family are not concerned about pirates and will not be increasing their prices'''
* '''Marta Kotova Novikova now holds the title ''Prime Factor of the deBruin Docks'''''
This will not, however, affect the prices offered to the [[Prime Factor of the Pallas Docks]] by the ''Debruin'' family. The Imperial Senate approved the [[Redesign_Pallas_Docks|redesign]] and renaming of the docks during the Winter Solstice. The [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Powers_of_Spring|terrible storms]] raised by the [[Children of Wrecks]] could have caused significant problems for this construction, but the [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Pillars_of_Adamant_(Redoubt)|Summer enchantment]] laid over the south-western Urizen mountains by the ''Ashen Flame'' provided more than enough protection to those responsible for the remodelling and it completed on schedule. As such, '''Marta Kotova Novikova''' is now the Prime Factor of the DeBruin Docks''' and can purchase wains following the Spring Equinox.

Bastien Debruin and his family, cousins of the current holder of the [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Bear|Seat of the Bear]] at the Beggar's Feast, are known for their martial prowess. They deal with the protection of their ships in-house, and if anything seem to relish the opportunity to repel pirates, taking their loot and vessels from them and throwing any pirate who doesn't immediately surrender into the sea in the process.

Access to the formerly rich Imperial markets stands to greatly benefit the Debruin family, increasing their prestige within their own House, and within Sarcophan society in general - assuming the Empire actually ''want'' Sarcophan [[weirwood]]. There may be additional benefits here - having the Debruin family with a vested interest in [[Redoubt#Cargo|Cargo]], and by extension the Bay of Catazar, could potentially give the Ambassador an opening to discuss access to the mercenaries and marines the deBruin rely on, maybe with an eye towards a contract to protect other Sarcophan trade.

==Alivetti Estates==
* '''The ambassador politely declines to suggest the Alivetti Estates modify their trading practices'''
Despite the problems encountered elsewhere, the Sarcophan freehold at what were previously [[Houses_of_Silence#The_Alivetti_Enclave|the Alivetti Estates]] in [[Sarvos]] continues to prosper. While prices are reportedly getting a little steep in places, it seems that many of the folk who appreciate the diversions found in the enclave are prepared to meet those prices at least at the moment. This has done nothing to assuage the concerns of the Imperial magistrates about the continual law-breaking that takes place in the enclave, especially with the open sale of proscribed substances such as [[Create_law_prohibiting_Bite|bite]] and [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Criminalise_Ocean's_Caress|ocean's caress]]. Still, even they are forced to grudgingly admit that there are no cases of Sarcophan merchants selling their less-then-legal goods outside the land ceded to the Delves' merchants.

They do however urge people to be vigilant for anyone attempting to sell these substances or making use of them. ''Bite'' is identifiable as rough blue crystals or powder that leaves a slight greasy residue on surfaces, and causes users to become massively overconfident, short-tempered, and violent. ''Ocean's Caress'' is a thick bluish liquid with an odd sheen that smells of salt and grass with a distinctive taste similar to saltwater, and has a strong narcotic effect as well as potentially causing harm to the spirit of the user. Any citizen who encounters these drugs or their effects should inform the magistrates or the militia so they can be investigated.

There's also some concern that some of the substances being sold at the Alivetti Estates are legal in the Empire only because Imperial lawmakers have not encountered them, or had a chance to investigate their effects. As such some of the Sarvosan magistrates urge citizens to bring samples of any narcotics or drugs they have come into contact with to the attention of their Senators, to the Assembly of Vigilance, to the [[Imperial Censor]], and to members of the Imperial Apothecaries' Guild so they can be assessed for potential danger to citizens.
===Gold Leaf Gardeners===
{{WingedMessenger|address=Missives pertinent to the business of the Gold Leaf Gardeners in the Empire can be sent to ''Aaven Beekhof, The Bladgoud Tuiniers Handelsschool, Sarvos'' during the Spring Equinox. After that, the address will be defunct.}}
* '''Aaven Beekhof remains interested in hearing from anyone who might wish to purchase the legal drugs they sell'''
Last year the Sarvosan Chamber of Commerce declined [[Houses_of_Silence#A_Business_Like_Any_Other|an offer]] made by the ''Bladgoud Tuiniers'' (the ''Gold Leaf Gardeners'') relating to support for their ''handelsschool''. Despite this the major stakeholder in the Sarcophan guild, ''Aaven Beekhof'', [[Theory_of_the_crows#Everything_Must_Go|extended their visit to Sarvos]] and let it be known that he was keen to hear from anyone who might have a genuine interest in acquiring a steady supply of the [[Houses_of_Silence#Chamber_of_Commerce|drugs they have to offer]] - none of which are currently illegal in the Empire.

There's no way of telling whether any Imperial citizens took advantage of this offer or not, but it's notable that Aaven has not yet left the ''Bladgoud Tuiniers'' offices despite saying he would probably leave in the new year. It seems likely that the guild has received lucrative offers or proposals that have encouraged them not to abandon their investments in the Alivetti Estates. That being the case, [[Call Winged Messenger|winged messengers]] will still reach the Sarcophan merchant following the Spring Equinox.

'''OOC Note:''' If anyone did send a winged messenger to Aaven Beekhof during the Winter Solstice, any reply should be included in your character pack. If there is no letter, please bring that to the attention of a referee.
===Silent Temple===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The House of Silence have abandoned efforts to purchase further wains of white granite from the Empire'''
* '''They intend to employ a renowned Imperial artist to decorate the structure'''
''Poortwachter Farber'' and the ''Community of Silence'' have not lost their enthusiasm for [[Houses_of_Silence#Loud_Silence|establishing a Sarcophan temple]] in the Alivetti estates, but it seems they may have failed to acquire all the [[white granite]] they need from Imperial sources. On the other hand, there are rumours that a significant offer has been made to provide half the white granite they need, which the Poortwachter is keen to take advantage of. Either way the prior offer to purchase further wains to build their temple has been withdrawn.

Work has already begun on the temple, but it is not proceeding very fast. Observers estimate it will not be completed until shortly before the Autumn Equinox 387YE. Assuming nothing further delays the construction, of course... Once the work is properly underway, the Poortwatchter will presumably be making contact with the artist whose services he has retained, looking forward to getting started on the decoration of the new structure once it is complete.
{{WingedMessenger|address=Missives pertinent to the building of the Silent Manse on the Alivetti Estates can be directed to ''Poortwachter Farber, The Jolly Buidelrat Inn, Sarvos''}}
The presence of an actual temple of a foreign religion in Sarvos is obviously a matter for some concern (for all that the land where it is built is equally technically part of the Sarcophan Delves). The priests and [[bishop|bishops]] of the City of Masks look to the League assembly for guidance. Once complete this temple could be an opportunity for the Poortwatchter to proselytise their religion to those visiting the Alivetti enclave. Very little is actually known about the specific beliefs of the Community of Silence, never mind the details of the [[Sarcophan_Delves#Religion|Sarcophan religion]] as a whole, which the [[Vigilance|Vigilant]] of Sarvos find particularly concerning. There are even a few voices who suggest, albeit circuitously, that it might be prudent to make sure work on the temple never completes although doing that without breaking Imperial law in the process might prove challenging. Still, the Synod hasn't always felt the need to abide by the law on such matters.

==Brothers Kraft==
* '''The farmers of Wintermark are growing vlinderbloem for the Sarcophans in exchange for viezesmaak'''
* '''They invite Winterfolk with potential schemes to speak with the Jolly Jackdaw Cartel in the League given nobody else appears to want to help them make money'''
The entrepreneurial brothers ''Florian'' and ''Gelder Kraft'' continue to work with the farmers of [[Wintermark]] who have [[Hyenas_and_herbs#Flowers_in_Frost|accepted their proposal]] to cultivate ''vlinderbloem''. Their request that the Imperial ambassador do their leg-work to find other opportunities to invest in the Empire has been politely declined, as there are any number of other more pressing matters to take up their time. Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike has likewise made it clear that she does ''not'' want to receive messages from Imperial citizens about the doings of the Kraft brothers, despite their suggestion she might serve as their "agent".

In the end Florian and Gelder are forced to propose a compromise if they want to find other investment opportunities in Wintermark without forcing them to travel all the way to Anvil on the off-chance. They propose that anyone with a potential investment opportunity speak to the '''[[The_League_groups#Jolly_Jackdaw_Cartel|Jolly Jackdaw Cartel]]''' in [[the League]] about it. Their expectation is the Jackdaws will be prepared to pass along anything ''they'' think has legs, probably at a reasonable price for their time. This suggestion includes '''Darian Numbers''', who the Imperial ambassador mentioned is specifically interested in talking to them. If Darian or anyone else can't convince the Jolly Jackdaw Cartel that their idea is a good one, then it's unlikely the brothers Kraft would be interested either.

The Kraft brothers are clear that they are first and foremost businessmen. They are not interested in generic invitations to visit Anvil to talk about "matters". They want clear proposals for ways they might invest in Wintermark, opportunities for them to use their expertise and contacts to make both themselves and their collaborators rich. The brothers claim to have contacts all over Sarcophan, and again claim that they can lay their hands on almost anything if the price is right. This is likely something of a self-aggrandising boast, but it can't be denied that the Sarcophans trade with merchants all over the known world. If there are Sarcophan goods Wintermark merchants are interested in buying, or unusual goods they are interested in selling, the brothers want to know. They claim they can turn their hand to anything; what they need to know is what kinds of opportunities for wealth and mutual prosperity the Mark might find appealing.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
==Tombs and Tribulations==
* '''A Sarcophan art dealer is enroute to Anvil to talk with Highborn benefactors about a lucrative opportunity'''
* '''A Sarcophan Prosperity priest is enroute to Anvil to warn Highborn benefactors about a terrible scheme that nobody should entertain'''
* '''Both aim to arrive at the Highguard camp at approximately 1700 on the Saturday of the Spring Equinox, and wish to meet benefactors at the Chapel'''
* '''A Highborn egregore will facilitate a vote of the benefactors present on whether or not to accept the art dealer's opportunity'''
Two bickering Sarcophans have been spotted on the road to Anvil. One is an art dealer, who claims to be travelling to present an exclusive deal to Highguard Benefactors. They are tight-lipped on specifics, but do reveal that it concerns arranging trade in stone goods between Highguard and a certain Sarcophan sect. Hot on their heels, a Sarcophan Prosperity priest of the Way is spreading liberal warnings that such a scheme could muddy the concept of Virtue within the Delves, and even lead some people to question whether the Way and the traditional Sarcophan faith can't both be followed simultaneously.

Both travellers estimate arriving at the Highguard camp at 1700 on the Saturday of the Spring Equinox, when they will head to the Chapel. A Highborn egregore has indicated that they will facilitate a simple majority-wins vote among benefactors present at the meeting on whether or not to accept whatever opportunity the art dealer wishes to present.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Prosperity.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
==Sarcophan Prosperity==
* '''The ''Preach Prosperity for the Collectors'' lecture involved an all-expenses paid trip to the Sarcophan Delves'''
* '''The final outcome of this opportunity depended on the number of congregations taking part'''
* '''Anyone who takes this action will be part of the Prosperity assembly at the Spring Equinox'''
During the Winter Solstice, a small group of [[Sarcophan Delves|Sarcophan]] visitors spoke to members of the Prosperity assembly about an exciting opportunity in the Delves. They came as representatives of ''De Verzamelaars van Beeltenissen'' which roughly translates as "the collectors of images", a fringe sect of the [[Sarcophan_Delves#Religion|Sarcophan faith]]. They were interested in recruiting Imperial priests to preach about the virtue of Prosperity in the Delves, offering to cover travel costs and provide hospitality in return.

Those priests who chose to ''Preach Prosperity for the Collectors'', have gained no liao from their [[congregation]] this season. The priest themselves will be part of the Prosperity assembly at the Spring equinox (and will remain so until they take a different downtime preaching action next season). Any Imperial citizen who held a title that requires them to be a member of a different Virtue assembly would automatically lose their position. In return these priests gained access to the wealth of Sarcophan - and an all-expenses paid trip to the Delves.

Further details of the trip to Sarcophan are included in the packs of the priests who delivered the lecture following the Winter Solstice. If you are one of the priests who chose that downtime option, you should find a report in your character pack - if not please enquire with GOD staff so we can sort it out.
<div style="float:left; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Actuallythebest001.png|align=left|width=250}}</div>
==Little Beetles==
* '''A representative of the Lijkkever families, Schyuler Koopman, visited Anvil and then travelled north to Holberg'''
* '''They are excited by the prospects of working with Holberg to build a port in Utterlund but wary of the challenges'''
* '''They propose an appraisal from the Imperial Senate, and stress that they would be prepared to help fund any commission in return for preferential access'''
In response to invitations from both Ambassador and ''Bernhard Kleist von Ennerlund'' to help celebrate the anniversary of Holberg joining the League, a representative of the [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Lijkkever|Lijkkever]] visited Anvil. ''Schuyler Koopman'' apparently received a warm welcome, and very much enjoyed their visit, travelling from [[Anvil]] to the city itself. The Lijkkever are not the wealthiest house of the Delves, but they have unmeasured levels of influence over stevedores and dockworkers wherever Sarcophan ships unload. It appears that Koopman was very interested in the possibility of establishing trade with the League - not with Sarvos, Apulian, or Tassato (especially given the Bay of Catazar is hardly safe waters at the moment) but with the north-eastern city renowned across the known world for its ingenuity and immense walls.

The Lijkkever are not especially familiar with the northern Empire, but they raised concerns about the [[orc|orcs]] of the "nation of Sanath" who are "very violent toward outsiders". Even being informed of the real nature of the [[Druj]], Koopman remained keen to establish a direct trading route to Holberg that would allow them to both avoid the Bay and the crossing of the haunted [[the Semmerlak|Semmerlak]]. While visiting the city, the Sarcophan agent paid for a small party to accompany them into the marshy woods of [[Holberg#Utterlund|Utterlund]] to explore the banks of the river. They also visited the Sandfishers in [[Holberg#Misericorde|Misericorde]], partially to discuss the possibility of acquiring lumber and weirwood from their sawmills, or employing their expertise to help clear the woodlands before construction began. Apparently the expedition went well, and Koopman returned even more enthused about the idea of a joint effort to establish a port, on the understanding that Sarcophan would receive priority for berths and warehouses. There is more than a little hint that Koopman in fact represents an alliance of several of the smaller Sarcophan families prepared to gamble on formal trade with the northern Empire, even though it will require their vessels to pass through the Mallum.

Unfortunately it seems Schuyler Koopman underestimated the scale of the work that would be involved. His family are adept at the technicalities and logistics of operating a quayside, of dealing with merchant vessels and trade caravans and making sure shipments get where they are going. But the sheer amount of construction that will be needed - not only a set of docks but a raft of buildings and warehouses, a good quality road connecting Utterlund and the city itself, and suitable protections against the threat of the Mallum - is beyond Koopman's ability to oversee.

After speaking with the people of Holberg, however, Koopman has returned with a proposal. The [[Imperial Senate]] is in a very good position to come up with plans to address the three main obstacles, and to do the work needed to allow Holberg entrepeneurs, Sand Fisher lubmerjacks, and the Lijkkever to pool their efforts. The Lijkkever and their friends are very good at building in marshy territory, and establishing workable docks quickly and efficiently. If the Imperial Senate commissions an [[appraisal]] into the best way to build a municipal docks in Holberg with the aid of the Lijkkever, they believe that a flourishing port-town could be established within a year or two. They are confident this would bring prosperity to Holberg, and raise funds for the Imperial treasury as the needs of the docks and opportunities to trade with foreign merchants see new businesses established in Utterlund. They point to the proposal for the [[Germinating_a_city#A_Spiritual_Successor|Municipal Docks]] in Madruga as the kind of outcome they are hoping might be possible. (In fact if the Kleists can't persuade the Senate to appraise this exciting opportunity, maybe they could purchase the help of the Commonwealth engineers?).

Obviously any appraisal could well produce plans for something that is dramatic in scale and scope, but Koopman is prepared to put his money where his mouth is. If the Senate commission the diplomatic [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to undertake such an appraisal at the Spring Equinox, then Lijkkever will be happy to negotiate on a fair split of the costs.

Schyuler also mentions that this appraisal might include an opportunity to take advantage of a proposal from '''Bernhard and Lula Kleist von Ennerlund'', to establish a lucrative market for the import of rare delicacies and victuals. The Lijkkever themselves are not especially involved in such things, but there are plenty of Sarcophan merchants with an interest in culinary matters - and if the market for luxuries in Holberg proves to be more refined than that in other parts of the Empire the chance to sell fine food rather than (for example) drugs would be quite appealing.

When queried about the threat of Asavean pirates, Koopman agrees that they are a concern but thinks it likely that one way or another the Empire will have resolved that issue by the time the docks are commissioned and completed. Another note of caution is raised by a few more sceptical Holbergers who take a longer view. Establishing a major trading post in northern Holberg would mean that international traders would have little reason to risk the Semmerlak. This might have implications for any trading posts established along the shores of the haunted lake such as [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks#The_Sarcophan_Mooring|Ivarsgard docks]] for example.

==A Delicate Private Matter==
* '''There has been some discussion of matters involving Axos'''
* '''It seems the Lijkkever have inadvertently become entangled in Axou politics'''
* '''Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike reassures the Ambassador that they are disentangling themselves as quickly as possible'''
There is another matter associated with Koopman which is a little more delicate. It seems that Schuyler had another goal in Anvil on behalf of the Lijkkever, one they failed to achieve. Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike is quite frank: House Lijkkever have been engaging in some speculative international investment ''without'' the sanction or aid of the House of Crows - in an attempt to avoid making a payment for services rendered. The House made a relatively substantial investment in the [[Axos#Chambers_of_Issyk|Chambers of Issyk]] in [[Axos]]. They took advantage of the Axou need for extensive repairs and refitting of their docks, offering their expertise and contributing money and materials to help with the work. This investment has gone well - additional quays and large new warehouses are being built. It seems House Lijkkever had aspirations of marketing goods from Issyk as exotic luxuries, and perhaps selling trips to Issyk to Sarcophans interested in improving their health (there is no reason to think that visiting Issyk would be good for their health except that it is a some lurid foreign destination with some interesting sights).

All of this was very profitable, but House Lijkkever's people had not done the requisite research into the complex and opaque politics of the tiny nation. It appears that on a number of contentious internal issues, Issyk is a pivot point between various different factions. House Lijkkever don't care about any of this - they really just want to operate their ''tsotchke'' trade in peace. As the situation became more complicated, they finally approached the House of the Crows for help.

Annike wants to make clear that the Delves regards Axos as being in the Empire's sphere of influence. As such, it would be somewhat controversial for political entities in the Delves to wield political influence there without a degree of approval. Schuyler Koopman negotiated what he thought was an agreed price with the Ambassador to sell the controlling stake in the Issyk docks to the Empire, but it now seems the deal has fallen through. As such, the Delves will make other arrangements, satisfied that they have done their "due diligence" in giving first refusal to the Empire. She stresses again that the House of Crows and the Delves as a whole had no knowledge of this affair when it began - and she is hoping it will not disrupt the hopes of Schuyler Koopman for investment and collaboration in Holberg or the relationship of the Delves to the Empire as a whole.
==A Safe Net==
* '''Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike notes there is some concern that the Empire is suffering a financial crisis at present'''
* '''The Delves offer to step in and purchase surplus wains if the price falls too low'''
Finally, Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike mentions that a number of staff at the embassy have referred to concerns in the Empire about some kind of financial crisis. The Delves would never spy on their friends, but they do try to keep their ear to the ground and their finger on the pulse and have not failed to notice that the auction price of [[weirwood]] Bourse seats [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Imperial_elections#Bourse_Auction|fell precipitously last season]]. As the ambassador understands it, the proceeds of these auctions forms an essential part of the Imperial treasury, so any fall in value has significant implications.

Clearly it is not the place of the Sarcophan Delves to get involved in Imperial affairs, but the concern is that if the price of other seats also drops, if the value of mithril, weirwood and white granite in Anvil continues to fall, then that could be disastrous for the Empire. The last thing the Delves want to see is anything that might disrupt trade, so it is in everyone's interest to ensure that does not happen.

The simplest thing the Delves could do to help stabilise the situation in the Empire would be an offer to purchase excess wains if the price fell too low. That would benefit the Delves, they would have access to valuable materials at rock bottom prices, but it would also benefit the Empire as the economy would receive a fresh injection of liquidity.

Of course any benefits to either party would be dependent on the price... Sadly the price Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike so casually mentions, two thrones a wain, is so low that it causes one of the embassy staff to go white as a sheet. That's a price at which the Delves would become keen to buy. If the market value fell below that point then the Delves would be prepared to buy as many wains as were needed to raise the price back-up - presuming they had the Empire's blessing to do so.

If the ambassador is interested in the offer, then they are welcome to get in touch on the matter. The price may be too low for the Empire's liking, but as Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike points out, all prices are negotiable. And of course they have to take account of their costs... now if there was just some way to reduce the current shipping costs to the Empire then the price might be meaningfully higher...
{{Sarcophan Links}}

The hard way

2025-06-05T23:06:08Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Overview */ Spelling

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<quote by="Archbishop Estella Lucati’s sermon on the occasion of the consecration of the Atrium of Golden Light in Capodomus cathedral to Ambition, using true liao.">

My fellow citizens and my siblings in Virtue, I stand with you in this glowing light, and I see proof of the findings of the Doctrine of Enlightenment: Virtue lies in choice - and action.

Think of the choices made by everyone who built this cathedral before the bonds of the League or the shape of the Empire was even imagined. They could not have pictured us as we are today, but they dreamed of someone finding inspiration here. They could not have imagined our Nation of Five Cities, nor our Empire of Ten Nations, but they chose to aim high. They built something big enough, grand enough, and inspiring enough for a truly great future. And what they knew well, we must also remember: each brick, each pane of glass and beam of wood – each one is a small, manageable thing that we can choose to grasp and move as we reach for our goals.

When the Bishop of Capodomus demolished his house to provide materials to make this glass, he gave his home for his Ambition, not even knowing that his offering would result in such rich amber beauty. He chose action, and we stand beneficiaries of his virtue, his choice, his sacrifice.

When we commit ourselves to Virtue, however small, we must take action. As we build a more virtuous world, we know that even the most impenetrable forest will fall one tree at a time. Each choice of our daily lives, each act – can be virtuous, and can be in service to our Empire. In our lives, we make plans for our future. We do not plant trees to give us shade or fruit tomorrow, but to shelter our grandchildren. In the same way, we must pursue Ambitions that take us further into the future than we may live to see. Do not let fears of difficulty come between you and the possibility of achieving greatness for our people, our Empire, and the Way.

Yet we must also be committed. We must finish what we start. There is no Virtue in giving up halfway through the forest, even if we grow weary and sore. For countless generations, the Navarr have kept the Vallorn at bay by walking the trods. This implacable adversary with whom there can be no reason or peace. We have, in our lifetimes, the chance to reap the harvest sown by our prior selves [EW1] and be rid of the enemy that dwells in the very heart of our Empire. We owe this to those who came before us – and those who will come after.

Imagine it! That is not a world my grandmother – or her grandmother – could have dreamed possible – but if given the chance, they would have embraced it eagerly. Are we weaker folk now, that we will not? Surely, we are not so tired, so poor, so fearful, or so distracted that we will fail to try with all our might to achieve this great Ambition, this great act of virtue.

I urge you all to reject the weakness that comes from pettiness and lack of vision. We may be war-weary, we may need to stabilise the Treasury, but hear me now: we are living in a great Empire full of Virtue, which our ancestors laboured on, fought for, and finally entrusted to us. It is an Empire worth cherishing, worth improving, worth defending – and worth paying for. It is a great thing, to be an Imperial Citizen – and we know there is nothing great without cost.

Surely each mason felt weary while building this cathedral, one day or another. Their backs and knees ached, and they laboured in mud and dust while dreaming of golden light they never lived to see. But we know that their virtues, their choices, and their small, repeated actions have brought us to this moment. So with the struggles in front of us, I say that we shall face them with small, repeated, virtuous actions – and we shall overcome them. Let us lift up this promised future Empire – entrusted to us by those who went before – and carry it forwards, into the light.

It is our task, our duty – our Virtuous Burden – to leave our Empire a better place for our descendants. Let us grant them an Empire without the Vallorn, an Empire closely following The Way. Let us build and bequeath to our children a shining Empire that beckons with a golden light, one that foreigners will emulate, and long to join, even as the cities of the League joined to each other, first through inspiration, and then negotiation, and finally with joy, for the benefit of all.

We must sacrifice. We must pay. We must act. We must dare do all, for if we strive virtuously, nothing is beyond our reach.
</quote>
<div style="float:left; width: 320px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Archbishop of Capodomus.jpg|caption='''Estella Lucati''' (right), Archbishop of Capodomus Cathedral, who delivered the stirring sermon that echoes across the Empire.|align=left|width=320}}</div>
==Overview==
The [[Consecration#True_Liao|true consecration]] of [[Sarvos#Capodomus_Cathedral|Capodomus Cathedral]] in [[Sarvos]] has been a wonder, attracting citizens from all over the Empire and beyond, inviting them to gaze up in wonder at the golden light spilling through the [[Golden_light#The_Atrium_of_Golden_Light|beautiful atrium]], demanding they aim high and insistently reminding them that even the most impenetrable forest will fall, if you set yourself to fell one tree at a time.

The power of the [[aura]] in this extraordinary setting created a unique opportunity for the [[Archbishop of Capodomus]] to [[Golden_light#Words_to_Move_the_Mountain|preach a powerful sermon]], one that inspires the faithful and exhorts them to consider their [[Ambition]]. The current Archbishop, '''Estella Lucati''', has seized this moment to deliver an inspiring speech to those visiting the Cathedral urging them to consider what they can do to defeat the [[vallorn]].

The [[#Participation|words have spread]] quickly across the Empire, carried by virtuous pilgrims, and the powerful speech is discussed and debated by folk from all walks of life in all the Imperial nations. There is acknowledgement that it is an extraordinarily ambitious goal, something that would take years to achieve, but it is far from impossible. The [[A_thousand_years_of_longing|results of the work done]] at the [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian|Great Library of Hacynian]] have revealed what it would take. Several nations have already committed themselves to finding ways to prepare for the coming battle against the vallorn, or committed themselves wholesale to the coming struggle.

The question now, however, is whether everyone is agreed on the price.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right}}

==No Price Too High==
* '''Ambition teaches that no price is too high to achieve your goals'''
* '''Implicit in that doctrine is the acknowledgement that all goals come with a price'''
* '''The Empire cannot achieve everything it desires, if it tries to do everything, it is likely to fail at everything'''

The Archbishop's sermon has been abundantly clear that they want the faithful to focus their efforts on destroying the vallorn. The virtue of Ambition takes as many forms as there are people in the world. There is value in the Ambition of any pilgrim no matter how personal their goals, but the words of the Archbishop stirred the imagination of everyone who heard them. Now is not the time to pursue individual aspirations - now is the moment to come together and act as one. No one individual can destroy the vallorn, it is not remotely something even a single nation could achieve. The [[Navarr]] have fought the vallorn for the best part of a thousand years and victory still eludes them. Faithful pilgrims across the Empire understand that now is the time to set aside personal dreams and work toward something incredible.

What they are not entirely persuaded on, at least not yet, is that the vallon is the right goal for the Empire to focus on over others. Ambition teaches that no price is too high to achieve your ambitions, but most priests understand that means there ''will be'' a price. "Nothing great without cost" is the mantra of the League, a nation built on Ambition. The price, however, is not the cost. It will need a great host of [[Imperial army|armies]] to free [[Liathaven]], [[Hercynia]] and the other territories from the grip of the vallorn. Thousands will die to achieve this goal - money and [[mithril]] will be spent like water. That is the ''cost''.

But the ''price'' is different... The price is what you must give up. It could be argued that the Empire faces several great foes, each of which offers the potential to defeat them - three foes that have been called out by the [[Imperial Synod]] on numerous occasions. One is the murderous Spring infestation of the vallorn; the others are the boundless cruelty of the [[Druj]], and the heretical corruption of the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]]. Each of these threats could be defeated - surely each of them ''will'' be defeated in time. But if the Empire actually wants to achieve one of those goals in the next decade - something that is certainly achievable if the Empire is united - then they will have to ''focus'' on it. And that focus will be at the expense of dealing with the other two enemies. This is the ''price''.

Of course everyone would ''like'' the answer to be that the Empire can fight all three of these enemies at once with all its strength. They can certainly do that. The Empire is currently engaged with the Druj, the [[Grendel]], and the [[Jotun]] - no-one can deny the Empire can fight more than one battle at once. But the Empire is not currently making any headway against the Druj - if anything the barbarians are pushing them back on the Eastern front. There is no sign of any real move to take the war to the vallorn. After almost a year of attempting to anchor the Way in Asavea, the Empire is nearly two percent of the way to completing the first step.

If the Empire really wants to achieve something memorable, something astonishing, something Ambitious, then they will need to accept the price. Just as individuals might set their own ambitions aside for a time, the Synod and the Empire will need to give up others Ambitions, for years potentially.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_General.png|align=right}}
==Defeat the Vallorn==
* '''The General Assembly can pass a mandate to urge the Empire to focus everything on ridding the world of the Vallorn'''
* '''If this mandate passes then it will create new opportunities to attack the vallorn but there will be far fewer opportunities to defeat the Druj or convert the Asaveans until victory over the vallorn is achieved'''
The Archbishop has been abundantly clear that the vallorn is the threat they want the Empire to focus on; its destruction is the ambition they urge the virtuous to focus on. This is not the first time members of the Synod has spoken on this subject - there have been statement after statement in many assemblies urging the Empire to defeat the vallorn and free the souls they believe remain trapped in is embrace.

But never before has the price of that Ambition been so stark. Now the Empire has a unique chance to commit to this path, once and for all, to the exclusion of others. To achieve greatness, the Synod will need to strain every sinew - this is not something the Assembly of Ambition can achieve by themselves. But if the General Assembly agrees with the Archbishop then they can use the following [[mandate]] to encourage every citizen to take this fateful choice with them.

{{Mandate|assembly=General Assembly|mandate=Even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. We send {named priest} with 250 liao to urge the faithful to focus on destroying the vallorn above all other ambitions. No price is too high.}}

If this mandate is enacted ''with a [[greater majority]]'' then it will lay to rest the issue of what great task the Empire should commit themselves to in the coming decade. It will trigger opportunities in the coming season to take the fight to the vallorn, changes to ensure victory as the virtuous devote themselves to this great Ambition. The mandate will herald a new age of war against this ancient enemy - one that offers the promise of a final victory.

The mandate must achieve a greater majority, because it must be sufficient to unite all the nations of the Empire. The priests of [[Varushka]] and [[Urizen]] have been clear they will not support mandates that do not represent the clear will of the General Assembly, and if the Empire is ''not'' united the mandate will achieve little. If the Synod cannot demonstrate that it is united and willing to pay the price of Ambition, then few citizens will be convinced.

The price of this opportunity will be paid in the war against the Druj and the attempt to convert the Asaveans. The project to [[Drumbeat_of_war#A_Fulcrum|Anchor the Way]] in Asavea is not going away, but there will be no new opportunities to advance that goal in the coming years. The Loyalty assembly efforts to destabilize the government of Asavea will continue, but there will be no new opportunities to make that job easier. The Druj are not about to stop fighting the Empire anytime soon, but nobody will be seeking ways to bring their evil empire down, nor encouraging the virtuous to invade the Mallum. Their evil will be left to fester, at least until the vallorn is destroyed.

Even the legal powers of the state that would normally create an [[opportunity]] will struggle if this judgement is passed. Any [[appraisal]] that tries to find new ways to defeat the Druj or explore new options for converting the Asaveans will have limited effect. The prognosticators will do their best, but the overwhelming attitude will be "how does this help the Empire fulfil its true Ambition?" Appraisals on other subjects will not be affected but the impact on appraisal about the Druj or the Asaveans will be muted except where the prognosticators are able to identify opportunities that serve the goals of the appraisal that might also help prepare for or enact the destruction of the vallorn.

==Other Paths==
* '''There is no opportunity for anyone other than Estella Lucati to submit an alternative mandate here'''
* '''The mandate is a profound turning point; creating a mandate with a similar impact would be very difficult'''
This mandate comes not from a [[statement of principle]] but from a unique [[opportunity]] to speak powerful words that echo around the Empire. As such, there is no opportunity for other priests to submit an [[Mandate#Alternative_Mandates|alternative mandate]]. Estella Lucati could put forward an alternative mandate, or adjust the wording, but it is hard for them to change the potential of ''this'' opportunity and impossible for anyone else.

A mandate like this comes along rarely - an opportunity to influence the entire Empire towards the achievement of a long term goal. A simple statement of principle - even one with a greater majority in the general assembly - is unlikely to create a mandate with such an impact. The combination of the historical importance of Capodomus Cathedral and the true consecration produced the opportunity to speak a powerful sermon. There's no way to guarantee this combination happening again, but at the absolute minimum it would require an [[inspirational location]] being created from a spiritually important historical place.

==Many Torches==
* '''In addition to the effects of the Sermon, the consecration of Capodomus brings with it several other opportunities'''
While the focus is on the Archbishop's sermon, the true consecration has had several other effects as well, as laid out in the '''[[Golden light]]''' wind of fortune last season. They include [[Golden_light#Golden_Archbishop|increased donations]] for the archbishop; the expanded [[Golden_light#Lucati_Gallery|Lucati gallery]]; the chance for Imperial citizens to [[Golden_light#Every_Forest_Falls|claim new resources]]; the year-long ability for [[congregation|congregations]] to lecture on the [[Golden_light#Better to Try|importance of visiting Capodomus]] and for National assemblies to [[Golden_light#Voices_Like_Flames|recognise ambitious citizens]]; and the now completed final (final final) resting place for [[Golden_light#The_Woman's_Work|Empress Giselle in the cathedral vaults]].

==Participation==
* '''The words of the inspiring sermon echo across the Empire'''
* '''Any character may have heard or read them, or been present in the audience for the initial sermon'''
The words spoken by Estella Lucati echo across the Empire. Rather than being distributed by the civil service, they are carried by pilgrims who visit the Cathedral. They are also quickly arranged into a pamphlet by the printers of Sarvos, along with somewhat fanciful woodcuts claiming to depict the sermon itself, and a few pages thrown together by a hack writer about the vallorn, the successes at the [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian|Great Library of Hacynian]], and the recent words of support from the League assembly for the fight against the vallorn. Characters from all walks of life can have read these words, or heard them recited, and players are encouraged to have an opinion on this matter, discuss it with their priests, or where appropriate make their own copies of the speech.

It's also appropriate for characters to claim (truthfully or not) to have been in the audience for that initial sermon; to talk about how the sun seemed to set the atrium afire, how the words of the Archbishop resonated and moved people almost to tears with their power and urgency, and about the profound experience of hearing them while immersed in the [[Auras_of_Ambition#Dare_Do_All|consecration of Ambition]].
==Further Reading==
* [[Archbishop of Capodomus]]
* [[Ambition]]
* [[Golden light]] - Winter 386YE wind of fortune about the consecration of Capodomus Cathedral
* [[Vallorn]]

Speak to me

2025-06-04T17:30:47Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Zie of the Morning */ Un-Capitalization & correcting a comma

[[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.

The civil service have issued guidance on the matter of timings around Remorse. If the Imperial Senate pass a motion to create the power on the Friday evening or Saturday afternoon session, then it would be possible for a Declaration of Remorse to be raised at the Saturday evening session of Conclave, provided that the declaration is submitted before 18:00. If a Declaration of Remorse is passed at the same summit as a Declaration of [[Dissemination]] for the same ritual, then no funds will be taken for the latter and a ritual text will not be created regardless of in what order each declaration is passed in.

==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
|-
|}

Speak to me

2025-06-04T17:30:14Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Zie of the Morning */ Capitalization

[[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.

The civil service have issued guidance on the matter of timings around Remorse. If the Imperial Senate pass a motion to create the power on the Friday evening or Saturday afternoon session, then it would be possible for a Declaration of Remorse to be raised at the Saturday evening session of Conclave, provided that the declaration is submitted before 18:00. If a Declaration of Remorse is passed at the same summit as a Declaration of [[Dissemination]] for the same ritual, then no funds will be taken for the latter and a ritual text will not be created regardless of in what order each declaration is passed in.

==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
|-
|}

Speak to me

2025-06-04T17:24:35Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* Mistress of Ice and Darkness */ Capitalization

[[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.

The civil service have issued guidance on the matter of timings around Remorse. If the Imperial Senate pass a motion to create the power on the Friday evening or Saturday afternoon session, then it would be possible for a Declaration of Remorse to be raised at the Saturday evening session of Conclave, provided that the declaration is submitted before 18:00. If a Declaration of Remorse is passed at the same summit as a Declaration of [[Dissemination]] for the same ritual, then no funds will be taken for the latter and a ritual text will not be created regardless of in what order each declaration is passed in.

==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
|-
|}

Patterns of fairytales

2025-06-03T10:52:09Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: /* A Grand Lodge */ Spelling

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:386YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Lesser short-nosed fruit bat.jpg|caption=Bats, specifically bats in the Marches, have been particularly active over the last few months.|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
Magic is everywhere, but not everything is magic. Here we talk of many different things - rituals cast, the doings of the [[Imperial Conclave]], the often contradictory demands of the [[eternal|eternals]]. A grab bag of stories - some of them nearing their ends, some of them floundering in the middle, some of them barely begun.

There are a number of other winds that talk about magical events in the Empire; of particular interest might be [[Secret meeting]], which covers the responses to the [[Archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiaries]], [[Hammers and boxes]] which in particular discusses special uses of the ritual [[Ephisis' Scale]], and [[Gifts of a green mother]] that talks about boons provided by [[Yaw'nagrah]] to those brave - or foolish - enough to seek them.

==Mortal Magic==
Not every strange event is magic, not every magical thing is strange. Magic can be familiar or alien, and may be different things to different people. It isn't always the purview of magicians either - there is magic in all kinds of places from the herbs favoured by physick and apothecary to the materials drawn from mines and forests. One thing is sure though, from the most mundane [[hearth magic]] to the strange influence of [[Astronomancy|the stars]], to the vagaries of fate and chance, it changes what it touches..

[[Regrow the Land's Heart|Gentle rains]] fall on [[Feroz]] and [[Upwold]]. In the former territory it helps to wash away some of the scars of years of occupation by the rapacious Governor Rahab. Magical citadels are conjured across the Empire, providing protection against the threat of barbarian nations. Cold prosperity comes to certain herb gardens in [[Hahnmark]], invoked by the magicians of Wintermark, as the servants of [[Sorin]] visit to ruthlessly cull weak or less-than-useful plants. Who knows what boon the eternal may ask for this blessing?

Here then are examples of magic mortals have inspired, great and small.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Chalice.jpg|title=Order of the Silver Chalice|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Chalice and Water===
* '''The Silver Chalice order are offering aid to those caught by the flooding of the Scorrero'''
* '''They will be engaged in helping relieve the suffering in Segura and Kahraman until the Summer Solstice 387YE'''
Following the [[Where_the_river_rises#Lamentable_Loss_of_Life|terrible events]] in [[the Brass Coast]] caused by the flooding of the Scorerro river, [[Grandmaster]] '''Fausta Ankarien''' [[Concord#Guiding_an_Order|guided]] the [[Silver Chalice]] to "''offer succour to those in need who have suffered as a result of the river Scorrero flooding''." The [[Imperial Conclave]] agreed and [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Guide_Silver_Chalice|provided some support]], while the Grandmaster also collected a large number of healing herbs to help ease the suffering of those in Segura and Kahraman.

When the river rose, many settlements along the Scorrero in [[Segura]] aand [[Kahraman]] were taken by surprise. Their homes and fields have been washed away, and many were forced to flee the surging river waters with little more than their lives and the clothes on their backs. The [[egregores]] believe that more than two hundred people of all ages perished in the floods, and easily twice that number sustained significant injuries. Many, many more lost their homes or livelihoods. Sickness threatens to spread as the waters recede, and drinkable water becomes scarce thanks to filthy waters tainting wells and streams. Starvation becomes a very real threat, with food stores ruined and Winter approaching.

Into this chaos come the members of the Silver Chalice. Those magicians versed in the arts of the [[Surgical skills#Physick|physick]] and the [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecary]] set to work using the collected herbs to quell sickness, mend shattered bodies, and soothe wounded spirits. Magical healers are able to mend limbs, and treat the symptoms of disease before they can spread. Ritual magicians skilled in [[Winter magic|Winter]] and [[Day magic|Day]] lore help to restore or preserve food and drink, while [[Spring magic|Spring adepts]] are in demand everywhere for their healing powers.

Everything that can be done by the order is being done. The loss of life does grow, slowly, to the grief of many offering their support to the people of the Brass Coast, but the extra lives lost are a fraction of what they could have been. The intervenion of the order has saved the lives of hundreds of people if not more. Yet the work is not done. The Scorrero remains fattened, and may never return to its old course. Houses, farms, businesses - all have been ruined. People have nowhere to live, and great tent towns have grown up on the dry land near the swollen river.

While there has been some damage in Kahraman, it is Segura that has borne the brunt of the furious river. The two main bridges connecting Segura and the [[Segura#Sunset_Roads|Sunset Roads]] to the rest of the Empire are [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|broken into kindling]]; only the Sobral Bridge remains. This hampers access to Segura from the north - it is impossible to reach the territory from Madruga at all and the only secure way to enter the [[Segura#Sobral Grasses|Sobral]] remains via [[Kahraman#Gambit|Gambit]] in [[Kahraman]]. The town of Cerevado has been particularly unlucky; buildings along the waterfront are flattened or in some cases carried away by the flood.

The [[Cerevado Nets]] remain [[Where_the_river_rises#Glitter|damaged]], and after a glut of [[ilium]] following the floods '''Lexis i Leharo i Guerra''' will receive no more star metal until they are repaired. The Sunset Roads remain closed.

Thanks to the Silver Chalice, the people displaced by the floods will slowly rebuild their lives. Even if there is no further intervention, by the start of the Summer Solstice 387YE the worst of the damage will be cleared - although the matters of the Cerevado Nets and the bridges across the Scorrero will need more than the presence of the Silver Chalice to reolve.
====Injuries of the Soul====
* '''Ossegrahn is dismayed that the Empire chose to save property over people'''
* '''Some look to the Chalice to challenge the decision to prioritise property over people'''
There are a few heralds of [[Ossegrahn]] in Segura and Kahraman offering their particular aid to the people there. They are disappointed that the magicians who caused the Scorrero to break its banks chose not to use the boon the ''Tarnfather'' had provided that would have reduced loss of life by focusing the wrath of the risen river against ''things'' rather than ''people''. They don't go out of their way to spread this news, but those Freeborn who ask about it waste no time telling their neighbours. The Conclave [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Endorsement:_Casting_Raise_the_Rivers|endorsed]] the casting of the ritual, agreeing that it was necessary to deal with the greater threat of the Blight in Madruga. That is the right of the Conclave, and even those who have lost their homes can see the importance of not letting that blight spread to consume the Brass Coast.

Yet talk of that boon of Ossegrahn rankles. The Silver Chalice exists to "''ensure that Conclave is reminded of the value of life, and that it makes decisions with that value in mind''." Why, ask the refugees from the swollen river, did Conclave choose to save things rather than people? What was their thinking?

At the moment, people are too busy trying to survive or somehow repair their broken livelihoods. They are sad, more than angry, at what they are hearing. Still they look to the Chalice to challenge the Conclave in the hope of getting some answers, a sentiment that is echoed by ''Bogfearthan's'' heralds.

====A Grand Lodge====
* '''A declaration of endowment giving the ''Silver Tears'' 25 mana crystals would see new plans brought forward for a grand lodge for the Silver Chalice'''
While working to resolve the [[Parched earth|Parched Blight]], the Silver Chalice first put forward the idea of building a [[Parched_earth#Grand_Lodge|Grand Lodge]] to serve as a central meeting place for members of the order. Since then [[Lit_up#Grand_Lodge|developments in Mareave]] have temporarily put a halt to any such plans. However, in recent years, the Silver Chalice has come to the aid of the Brass Coast more than once, helping them deal with potentially existential threats, and that aid has not gone unnoticed.

A small group of wealthy Freeborn from Kahraman, Madruga, and Segura have approached the Silver Chalice members helping deal with the aftermath of the flood with a proposal. They would very much like to see a grand lodge of the Silver Chalice built on the Coast and have formed a parador, the Silver Tears, to try to help. Having seen what the Golden Pyramid are proposing they can how such a thing could provide valuable benefits to the Order and to whichever territory it is built in. The Silver Chalice are popular and well liked on the Coast - what better place for it?

Ideally they would like to create something on the scale of the one put forward for Mareave, or perhaps even a little ''more'' ambitious. After all, the Silver Chalice is the most important order in the Conclave, they really ought to have a grand lodge that reflects that. And besides, the Chalice came up with the idea ''first'', so why let the Pyramid take all the glory? But they understand that money is limited and the Chalice may prefer something more modest so that they can devote their resources to helping others.

They intend to do the work to create plans for such a structure, but being Freeborn they expect fair payment for their work. Should the [[Imperial Conclave]] pass a [[Declaration]] of [[Endowment]] providing the Silver Tears with 25 crystal mana from the font, then by the Spring Equinox they will prepare a plan to build a grand lodge for the Silver Chalice in the coast. The declaration would need to determine ''where'' in the Brass Coast it was to be built. Kahraman feels like a poor choice, but Segura, Feroz, or Madruga would all provide a suitable location for such a lodge.

If the wording of the declaration encourages them to produce something ambitious, they will aim for something even more impressive than the structure proposed for Mareave. If the wording encourages them to produce something practical, they will make plans for something more modest. If it isn't clear, they'll produce something on the same scale as Mareave.

This opportunity is only available at the Winter Solstice. The civil service indicate that an order can only have one grand lodge, so if the Silver Chalice do ultimately build a grand lodge here, they could not build one elsewhere in the Empire.

====Participation====
Any member of the Silver Chalice may have joined the efforts to help people in Segura and Kahraman, which are still ongoing. They will have spent their time healing the injured, fighting sickness, and helping ensure displaced people had sufficient food, drink, and other supplies.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ClawIllustrationInk.JPG||align=right|width=200}}</div>

===Shrouds and Stars===
* '''The Penumbral Veil has been drawn across most of the Empire'''
* '''Magicians drawing on the Claw in their magic may experience a roleplaying effect'''
After the Autumn Equinox, the [[Drawing the Penumbral Veil|Penumbral Veil]] settled across the entire Empire - or at least those parts of it that are Imperial territories. While the night skies above the rest of the Empire twist and change, those above [[Madruga]], [[Mournwold]], and [[Therunin]] are untouched as are those above [[Casinea]] for some reason. For the last three months, then, anyone travelling at night in an Imperial territory finds the night sky appears strange and unfamiliar - some stars are not where they are expected to be; the moon often seems closer, or further away, or in unexpected phase; there are new lights in the sky, sometimes of marvellous colour, where no stars have been seen before. These effects are subtle - nothing like the wholesale warping of the entire nocturnal heavens that are sometimes observed when this ritual is cast. But they are noticeable if one knows what to look for. The effects of ''Drawing the Penumbral Veil'' are quite durable - so it is likely to be at least a year or more before things return to normal.

At the same time the sky is being altered, three constellations are made particularly pronounced. [[The Mountain]] and [[The Great Wyrm]] have clearly come into a powerful conjunction of some kind, with wide-reaching effects on Imperial magic. At the same time, the constellation of [[the Claw]] seems especially pronounced. Those who know where it is, and what it looks like, find their eyes are drawn to it whenever they see the night sky. The sensation of gazing on the Claw may make sensisive people (especially [[naga]] or [[merrow]]) a little uneasy.

If it is invoked it in an [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] ritual, any contributor to that ritual will feel its power particularly strong and immediate. Anyone who wishes may experience the [[roleplaying effect]]: ''you feel an urge to assert your dominance over anyone who challenges you, or seek a physical confrontation with anyone you feel has wronged you. Violence seems easy and satisfying.'' This effect lasts for at least half an hour if a player chooses to embrace it.

'''OOC Note:''' Obviously Profound Decisions cannot (yet) change the night sky, if you are somewhere affected by the veils at night you should feel free to have in-character arguments about whether such and such a star or constellation is in the right place, or whether the moon looks peculiar or not, or how bright the Mountain, Great Wyrm, and Claw are tonight.

===Wyrm and Mountain===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=MountainIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Mountain (Illus.)|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''A Grand Conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain has had a profound effect on magical laws'''
Imperial [[astronomancy|astronomancers]] have marked a rare Grand Conjunction of [[the Great Wyrm]] and [[the Mountain]] in the skies above the Empire. The stars known as ''Uril, Who Twists'' and ''Omadan, Who Breaks All Names'' seem particularly bright, and there is a great deal of discussion as to what it might mean (if anything) that these two stars are generally seen as being the end of the tail and the point of the snout of the notional celestial Wyrm.

The impact of this conjunction has already been felt by magicians, with siesmic changes to the way certain types of magic, specifically those associated with warfare, function. The changes in these magics have been carefully checked and rechecked by the magicians of the [[Unfettered Mind]] as part of their ongoing research on rituals in Imperial lore that might have an eternal assurance underpinning them. They are not temporary in nature; this is a permanent alteration to the way [[Imperial army|armies]], [[military unit|warbands]], and [[fleet|ships]] are [[enchantment|enchanted]], and to how certain divinations work.

By exploring these changes, the Unfettered Mind have uncovered some interesting insight into the design of [[arcane projection|arcane projections]] functioning in these areas - and are reasonably confident that the impact of this conjunction is not yet finished.
====Unravelling====
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreatWyrmnowingsIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Great Wyrm is the emblem of transformation and transfiguration.|align=right|width=250}}</div>
* '''Arcane projections created before Winter 386YE that enchant armies, navies, military units, or fleets no longer work'''
* '''Such arcane projections are unravelling and may be exhanged for crystal mana'''
* '''The ability to exchange an arcane projection lasts until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE'''
* '''The inability to cast these arcane projections is permanent'''
The Unfettered Mind are also the first people to spot a peculiar phenomenon that seems to have started at the same time as the Grand Conjunction. The Great Wyrm is the [[The_Great_Wyrm#Symbolism|emblem of transformation and transfiguration]], not only that change will happen but that it is inevitable. It is especially common to invoke it in magical rites and processes that deal with magic itself, and it seems that this Grand Conjunction is having a direct impact on certain forms of magic - and certain forms of magical creation. Specifically [[arcane projection|arcane projections]] that deal with war and warfare.

Any arcane projection issued before E1-2025 that attempts to [[enchantment|enchant]] an [[Imperial army|army]] or [[Imperial navy|navy]] can no longer be cast. Likewise, arcane projections that involve enchanting a [[military unit]] or [[fleet]] will no longer function. The Grand Conjunction appears to have scrambled the magic bound into the projections themselves.

During the coming solstice, any arcane projection that no longer functions (those creating enchantments that target a military unit, fleet, Imperial army or Imperial navy), created before Winter Solstice 386YE, may be brought to GOD and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana in this way will persist until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE.

'''OOC Note:''' You'll need to hand the arcane projection phys-rep over so we can mark it as inactive on our systems. We don't plan to reprint lost arcane projections for the event; if you have lost an arcane projection in downtime you can e-mail [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] after the event with the details of the missing projection and we'll do our best to replace it in time for the Spring Equinox.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=DrownedManIllustrationInk.JPG|title=The Drowned Man (Illus.)|align=right|width=200}}</div>

====Drowned Man====
* '''It is currently not possible to create arcane projections that create a curse which targets an individual'''
While the drowned man is not part of the Grand Conjunction, astronomancers have indicated that there is a connection forming between its stars and those of the Great Wyrm. As a consequence, it is not possible to create an arcane projection that creates a personal [[curse]] - a curse that targets an individual. Such arcane projections that already exist can still be cast, but magicians of the Unfettered Mind theorize that it is only a matter of time before the same conjunctional effect that has diminished the power of warlike arcane projections effects arcane projections based around curses.

===The Littlest College===
* '''Access to the Loom of Spells will be auctioned at 14:00 on Sunday at the Imperial Regio'''
* '''Sanvar Isk has lost access to the Loom of Spells, and has apparently also lost the use of his knees'''
* '''The Loom of Spells is now controlled by the Church of The Little Mother'''

The salons of Tassato are desolate. Comedic playwrights and witty gossips wail and rend their garments. The worst boss in the Empire, the greatest buffoon of all the Autumn Realm, the orphan-kicker himself, Sanvar Isk, has lost access to the Loom of Spells. No more can his antics provide guaranteed laughs to anyone looking for a cheap and easy punchline. Some seek consolation in the fact that he was apparently violently assaulted and dragged off by a debt collector going by the wonderful name 'Charlie Kneecaps', but it provides only cold comfort. Then an unpopular street performer does something annoying again and everyone moves on to the next essential item of gossip.

In the mean time, it seems that Sanvar Isk's greatest enemies have picked up where he left off. The Church of The Little Mother has somehow managed to leverage their wealth and contacts to take over the contract for the Loom of Spells. Tassato's mountebanks, used to picking up odd shifts at the Loom and slacking off whenever the boss turned away, have learned to fear the children tasked with keeping them working. Still, at least they pay actual money these days. It could be a lot worse.

As the equinox draws nearer, a message is sent to the civil service. The Church of [[The_Little_Mother|The Little Mother]] intend to auction off the Loom once again, and apparently have decided not to break with Sanvar Isk's standard approach. A [[bishop]] of the Church will attend the Imperial Regio at 14:00 on Sunday of the forthcoming summit, where the auction will take place. Bids are to be given in mine or forest measures. It does not matter what measures are given, and bids may include a mixture of different materials. The only thing that matters is the raw quantity. They remind potential bidders that the Loom can only codify rituals of up to the tenth magnitude, but have established that the ritual Quick Study, which is part of Urizen lore, will work. The bishop taking the bids has been assigned as head of the work crews on the Loom this season, and may be targeted by this ritual if needed, though they will expect any bidders who require such a thing to have arranged their own casting and to be ready to cast it as soon as their bid is declared successful.

===Visions In The Swamp===
* '''The Raven Seer has tasked the Mystics of Ishal with finding a storied site for a new Meeting Place'''
* '''The Mystics of Ishal invite the Raven Seer and any mystics of Anvil who wish to join them to attend a traditional Goosewhisper ceremony'''
* '''A conjunction of the Sentinel gate will open to The Aviary of Ishal, Skymark, Kallavesa at 22:05 on Friday'''
It has not been long since the Mystics of Ishal scattered from their Aviary to pursue whatever trails the omens might lead them on. Two brief seasons of walking the world have gone by. During that time they have quickly begun to reap the rewards, finding opportunities last season to defend their ancestral homes in the Swamps of Kallavesa. This season the [[Raven Seer]] set them another task: find a storied site to [[A_stone_for_a_stone#Create_A_New_Meeting_Place|rebuild the Meeting Place]]. The Mystics have duly followed the signs that the world has given them, and have apparently found three potential places: the shores of Lake Nutjuitoq, where Tromsa meets the Suaq Wastes; Gull’s Isle, a tidal island in the Gullet that sits directly on the border between Kallavesa, Sermersuaq and Skallahn; and Coracle Rock, an ancient dolmen on the border between North Fens in Bregasland and Blutgahn in Hordalant. Any of these places, they are sure, could be a site for a new Meeting Place. There's only one problem: they have no idea why any of these places are important.

It is uncertain exactly how the visionary magic of the [[Goosewhisper Infusion]] works, and few mystics are inclined to question it. They are certain, however, that when numerous mystics have come together to meditate on matters of great importance, the visions can be powerful revelatory forces. Handfuls of soil and snow have been covertly gathered from these sites and scattered at a certain grove near the Aviary. If visions can be steered, then this would certainly steer them. Now they just need to wait for people to arrive.

There was a time when the [[Sentinel Gate]] opened every season to allow the mystics of Wintermark to return to the swamps and partake of Goosewhisper Infusion. As with so many patterns of the Empire's most mysterious artefact, it was not to last. Yet this season, prognosticators have identified that a conjunction of the gate will open at 22:05 on Friday of the forthcoming summit. It will lead to the Aviary of Ishal. The remaining Mystics of the Aviary, not at all surprised by this turn of events, intend to host a traditional Goosewhisper ceremony, as they have done many times before. Any mystic who wishes to attend is welcome to do so, though they will have to bring their own Goosewhisper - the Aviary is important, but not wealthy. The visions will, it seems, have something to say about these places and what their significance has been in the past.
===Animal Magic?===
* '''There are reports of an increase in the number of beast attacks in the north-west'''
As the Winter Solstice draws close, stories begin to spread of a marked increase in the number of beast attacks in [[Sermersuaq]] and neighbouring territories. Obviously, there are already dangerous beasts in Sermersuaq - the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Guardian|guardians]] unleashed by [[Agramant|Blood on the Snow]] and the [[Hayaak|Gryphon Prince]] - and they are certainly being a little more feisty than previous. But these stories involve attacks by more mundane animals - mammoths, lions, walruses, bears, even some unexpected creatures like normal-sized squirrels and even a few domestic pets or cattle. It's not clear what's causing this - it doesn't seem to be an [[enchantment]] or a [[curse]] as such. No additional loss of life is reported, but it is a little worrying nonetheless.

'''<big>Participation:</big>''' Anyone in the north-west, especially Sermersuaq, Hahnmark, Skarsind, or Hercynia, is welcome to roleplay that they have had an unpleasant and slightly unsettling encounter with an animal or beast. The exception is rats - nobody seems to be being attacked by rats. Not more than usual, anyway.

==Eternal Magic==
There are creatures beyond the mortal world, the inhabitants of the six realms of magic, closer than they seem, further away than can be imagined. They dabble and deal, bargain and bond, offer and take, and it's hard to predict exactly where their gifts will lead. The Empire can reach out to them through the powers of the [[Archmage]] and the [[Imperial Conclave]], but they also reach back - the one could not exist without the other - and sometimes their touch is gentle and sometimes it is harsh.

===Mists, Marshes, and Marchers (Sadogua)===
* '''Sadogua remains grumpy, and will not do more than the bare minimum in response to ''Dripping Echoes of the Fen'''''
* '''A successful meeting with a delegation from Wintermark has improved his mood somewhat with regard to Kallavesa'''
* '''Heralds from the Night Realm have attended several Wassail celebrations in the Marches'''
The ''[[Sadogua|Father of Bats]]'' has been in a terrible mood for the last year or more following the [[Ossium#Towers_of_Zulgan_Tash|Towers of Zulgan Tash Incident]]. As with previous seasons, his favoured servant the Almighty Panjandrum <s>have</s> has indicated that while he continues to honour the agreement that <s>underscores</s> underpins [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]], he will not bring any additional power to bear in supporting it. As [[Skeleton_key#Empty_Echoes_(Sadogua)|in previous seasons]], the ritual will still work - it simply won't <s>perfect</s> protect anything beyond the region where it is cast. ('''OOC Note:''' The ritual can be cast normally, but it provides protection only the targetted region. If the region is attacked however, its effective strength is increased and it causes casualties as normal)
<div style="float:right;"><quote by="The Almighty Panjandum">"What's better than a wizard in a hat? Three wizards in a hat.</quote></div>
Furthermore, for the foreseeable future, the Almighty Panjandrum <s>won't</s> will continue to <s>eat</s> answer any [[Missive for Sadogua]] sent by a [[Varushka|Varushkan]] magician. They reassure such wizards that they are "''absoluticately commiticuled to the precisionist presentationism of the questions sent, and the exactimundic transcribbling of the Great One's repliction''."

====The Hidden Lyceum====
* '''Sadogua offers to extend the wards currently protecting the Lyceum'''
* '''If the Conclave accepts he will work with the orders to find ways to more permanently protect the island and its college of magic'''
The [[Madruga#The_Lyceum_(Hidden)|Lyceum]], the island where the Empire's first [[college of magic]] lies, is currently hidden away behind [[A_beacon_of_smoke#Objective:_Raise_the_Lyceum's_wards|warding mists]] that protect it from all outside. Unfortunately it also prevents anyone from getting to or from the island. The heralds of the ''Black Sloth'' are able to reach the island thanks in part to the [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#The Quiet Annexe|Quiet Annexe]] but mostly thanks to the Conclave having (possibly accidentally?) granted the ''Toad King'' [[Ritual_theory#The_Law_of_Dominion|Dominion]] over it.

As such, the [[Dean of the Lyceum]] can still [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#Guiding_the_magicians_of_the_Lyceum|guide the magicians]] there in codifying rituals and the eternal is more than happy to transport arcane projections, messages, and ritual texts back and forth. Indeed, the heralds of ''Wyrmwynd'' are ensuring that money spent by the Senate to pay for the vital supplies needed to upkeep of the college are getting through to the magicians who need them.

During the Autumn Equinox, the Imperial Conclave [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Sadogua,_Amity|accepted an offer]] from ''Fogforger'' to find a way to permanently protect the island from outside attack. The good news from Sadogua's heralds are that he has successfully achieved this task, and with surprising swiftness. Unfortunately, in an unrelated matter, the mechanisms that powered the wards of mist and storm form the island have been rather irreparably broken and it is unlikely anyone will ever find out how that happened. The good news is that the wards will not persist indefinitely, preventing anyone from reaching the island. For good measure, the ''Father of Bats'' has encouraged two [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Guardians|guardians]] of the [[Realm#Night|Night realm]] to take up residence in the mists - the subtle and hypnotic ''Wyrm of Sleggoth'' now guards the waters and the bat-like ''Nightwing'' guards the skies above. Even if someone should find a way to penetrate the mists, these guardians would likely make short work of them.

The bad news is that he still hasn't ''quite'' worked out a way to let people ''through'' the mists so that Imperial (and [[Commonwealth]]) magicians can get in and out. He is still working on that, but the important thing is that the Lyceum is now very safe indeed. He's confident that he will be able to find a workable solution by the end of the year probably, but also notes that in the event the [[Grandmaster]] of either the [[Unfettered Mind]] or the [[Shuttered Lantern]] were to consider [[Concord#Guiding_an_Order|guiding their order]] to assist him and his heralds they could find an answer much earlier - although it is likely to be a bit thrown together and expensive. Or the Conclave could simply wait it out - the Lyceum probably isn't going anywhere, and everyone on it is reasonably safe.
====Meeting of Minds====
* '''Dripping Echoes of the Fen cast on Rundahl Marsh will protect the entire territory'''
* '''The Brother of Wizards commends the Wintermark mystic Wiglaf'''
Last season, a delegation of [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]] [[Nightcall#Father_of_Bat|attended a meeting]] with the ''[[Sadogua|Black Sloth]]'' arranged by the mystic ''Brennir Calversbairn''. What passed between them during the meeting is not clear, but apparently some kind of accord was reached - at least in [[Kallavesa]] and the [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]]. Going forward, Sadogua pledges to support that ritual when it is cast on [[Kallavesa#Rundahl Marsh|Rundahl Marsh]] with the same amount of enthusiasm he used to support castings of the ritual across the Empire. That is, when Dripping echoes of the Fen is cast on Rundahl Marsh, the resulting [[Night magic]] and [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] will protect the entire territory rather than just that [[Territory#Regions|region]]. For the rest of the Empire, the ritual will continue to only affect the region it is cast on.

On the subject of Wintermark, the ''Brother of Wizards'' also commends the good work done by the mystic '''Wiglaf'''. His heralds suggest that they might wish to use [[Missive for Sadogua]] and let the ''Globbersnotch'' know what trinket or minor magic they would like for themselves in recognition of the amusement they have provided him.
====A Grand Wassail====
{{SOP|statement=We the priests of the Marches extend a formal invitation to Sadogua and his heralds to participate in Wassail. Come and partake in drink, food, and celebration alongside us across the Marches. We also invite Sadogua to relocate the door to the Well of Shadows to the Marches if he so wishes.|by=Rosie of Goatsbriedge|vote=Greater Majority 106-12|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
* '''Heralds of the Night realm have visited Wassail celebrations across the Marches'''
* '''Sadogua offers a minor token of his appreciation to Marcher farmers that is a lot less illegal than those offered by Yaw'nagrah'''
* '''Marcher Landskeepers continue to have access to a certain Well of Shadows, whatever that is'''
The Marcher National Assembly upheld a [[statement of principle]] invited Sadogua and his heralds to participate in Wassail, and also to relocate the door to the Well of Shadows to the Marches. Following the Autumn Equinox, a surprising number of ''very'' odd creatures turned up to join in Wassail celebrations all over the Marches, even the [[Mournwold]]. There are even stories of [[Inhabitants of the realms|Night realm beings]] turning up to Marcher family gatherings across the Empire and even in some foreign nations. They are reasonably well behaved, excitable, full of fun and minor magics, and throw themselves into the various celebrations with enthusiasm. There is also a notable increase in the number of bats, and little black-scaled lizards, across the Marches many of whom have an unsettling ability to hold a conversation with anyone prepared to give them the time of day, especially children. Some of them have little hats.

The ''Toad King'' himself unfortunately is unable to attend, but nonetheless offers a small boon to the folk who have proved so welcoming to his heralds.
<div style="float:right;"><quote by="The Almighty Panjandum">You can't have the well of shadows if it's all poorly.</quote></div>
During the Winter Solstice, any Marcher farm that is enchanted with [[Blessing of New Spring]] but does ''not'' draw on the [[Gifts_of_a_green_mother#Chaos_on_the_Farm|boon of the Green Mother]] will grow a circle of black mushrooms somewhere within its bounds. Presuming they are collected on the night of the new moon and squeezed dry, they'll produce one of two black elixirs he calls ''Shinemoon''. ''Pale Shinemoon'' can be used to provide a ritual magician with a little inspiration when performing a ritual using [[Day]], [[Summer]], or [[Autumn]] magic while ''Dark Shinemoon'' does the same but for a ritual using [[Night]], [[Winter]], or [[Spring]] magic. He's a little disgruntled that [[Yaw'nagrah]] has rather stolen his <s>rattle</s> thunder, according to the Almighty Panjandum, but does point out that unlike the ''Old Bloodbark'', ''he'' has the <s>shoes</s> [[Alignment#Amity|amity]] of the [[Imperial Conclave]] and so it's not <s>time</s> illegal to accept ''his'' boons.

With regards to the Well of Shadows, it's not entirely clear what this means but at some point following the week after Wassail, a door appears in [[Upwold#Tower_March|Tower March]] a day's lazy hike east of King's Stoke. A meandering path, little more than a hunting trail, that nobody entirely remembers being there now connects the Stoke to the door, which is set into the bole of a massive ancient oak tree. The door is round, green, and resists all efforts to open it up to and including charging it healing with a log. The ''Brother of Wizards'' indicates that, in thanks for their continued friendship, one of the [[Landskeeper|landskeepers]] of the Marches can use his Well of Shadows twice more - after the Winter Solstice, and the Spring Equinox; they should already know how to let him know who they have chosen to study there. At the Summer Solstice however he will begin making other preparations. Presumably the landskeepers of the Marches know what this is about.

<big>'''Participation:'''</big> Any Marcher character is encouraged to make up stories about the antics of Sadogua's heralds, assuming they visited their Wassail celebrations, using the above as a guideline. They will have been reasonably well behaved, not disruptive, friendly, and with a quite astonishing capacity for food, drink, and discordant singing.

===A New Turn of the Wheel (Azoth)===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=EightSpokedWheel.jpg|width=400|align=right}}</div>
* '''If the Eight Spoked Wheel ritual is cast on Friday evening before 23.00, it will have different effects'''
* '''On Saturday morning, those with a token from the ritual can gather in the Hall of Worlds to participate in an odd experience provided by Azoth'''
Have you ever seen alchemists working on that strange stage of their experiments where [[iridescent gloaming]] and [[weltsilver]] seem to run, to be more liquid than solid? The construct that delivers messages from ''[[Azoth|The Magnum Opus]]'' to the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] this season moved like that, with almost no evidence of bones, or structure of any kind to their being. They seemed rather to flow to the doorway, and just as quickly melt away again, leaving behind several handfuls of tiny dodecahedral shapes covered in fine writing on every surface. The messages themselves took no small time to decipher, and the civil servants charged with the task are no clearer now on why the Azoth has chosen to take such an interest in the Empire than they were when they began. It's clear however that the eternal has some proposals for the Winter Solstice, however.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box>There are a few more factual notes about the way the offer is being made:
* The Eight Spoked Wheel ritual retains its usual magnitude of Night 6 and targets the ingots or measures as usual
* The token received can be used by any single individual, not just the ritualist. The same person should use it to dream and visit the chamber.
* The token also allows the holder to cast operate portal to enter and leave the hall of worlds, provided their goal is to reach the night chamber.
OOC note: Given the timing it is not possible to take part in a battle at this event (either as character or enemy) as well as attending this encounter. Players who intend to "take the field" should consider it not available to them even though the start and end times are just outside battle time.</box></div>
The shapes speak of an opportunity to do something unexpected with the [[The Eight-spoked Wheel]] on Friday during the coming Solstice, lasting until eleven in the evening. Instead of the usual effects, three ingots or measures used in the ritual will be transformed into a [[Vis#Crystal Fire|crystal fire]] and a token. This token will provide a dream, and admittance for one person to a Night chamber accessed via the Hall of Worlds.

On Saturday morning, starting at half-past-ten, those with tokens can gather in the Hall of Worlds to present them and learn when they will be admitted to the chamber. The experience will take place over the course of two hours, with different individuals entering the chamber at different times.

In the experience Azoth has prepared, there are several different phrases relating to what will actually take place - hard to read half finished phrases on the shapes describe these phases, often interrupted by the numbers ''one'' and ''four''. Repeated words include transformation, witnessing, creation, chalk, colour, exploration, expression, glitter, self, mirror, ephemeral, serenade.

Combining this with the instructions about what can be achieved by casting The Eight Spoked Wheel, the civil servants believe that Imperial Citizen's are being offered dreams to inspire them, and to then visit an night chamber where materials will be provided for them to make art. Perhaps for or perhaps with creatures of The Azoth's realm. A rather more prosaic note of an Azoth herald coming to Anvil to hire musicians suggests that inspirational music may also be provided.

===Receipt Acknowledged (Lashonar)===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box>'''OOC Note'''<br>Each player is free to chose whether they even remember the name offered to them in the dream, and how much effort they put in to trying to meet the other character in the game. We hope that some interesting roleplay will arise from this, but if you choose to explore a connection offered, please respect the other player's choice in whether they are open to roleplay with you on the theme of their letter or not.'''</box></div>
* '''Citizens who sent letters to Lashonar should expect to hear from the Eternal in their dreams. Some will be invited to audiences taking place on Saturday afternoon.'''
The civil service received a visit from the chattering herald ''Meliflee'', who explained that last season the ''[[Lashonar|Speaker in Dreams]]'' was delighted with the huge number of letters of longing they received. The ''Eater of Silence'' wishes to meet some of those letter writers on the Saturday afternoon of the Solstice in a night chamber which will open from the portal in the Hall of Worlds.

''Meliflee'' explains that they have chosen the attendees, this time around, not for the artistry of their words, or the sincerity of their passion, but for some similarities of theme in the letters of longing that have arisen, and caught the attention of the heralds. They are apologetic, but cannot assist their invitees with gaining access to the Hall of Worlds - any invitees who are not magicians will need to seek out a means to do so, if they have enough interest in attending. Meliflee seems faintly embarrassed at this. "''Rossignol says you'll understand," she says. "''The Loquacious One asked us to make it clear that we have noticed that the Conclave and the Empire no longer favour our interests''".

She goes on to explain that letter writers should expect a dream from Lashonar. Some will have invitations contained within their dreaming. For those who are not invited, they may find other things in their dream - they may be challenged to do something, or they may find that the name of another Imperial Citizen is mentioned.

This naming, Meliflee notes, is something the Conscience of Kings has allowed her to do. She has chosen names where letters were sent containing the tiniest common thread. These people do not necessarily share goals, or experiences, but, she thinks from what they wrote, that they might have something to say to each other. She also points out that there is no compulsion or even connection in the dream, it is just a name offered.
===Silver Wit (Unknown)===
* '''An unfamiliar herald has approached Sermersuaq from the west. It is unclear who she represents'''
* '''She wants to speak to icewalkers who are interested in diplomacy and ambition.'''
* '''She will arrive at the Wintermark fire pit at midnight on the Friday night.'''
* '''She suggests interested parties should keep midnight on the Saturday free as well.'''
The small garrison of '''Rest''' in the westernmost region of '''Stark''' in Sermersuaq is not used to receiving visitors. The guard here was re-established after the territory's reconquest, but since then has seen little action. They are surprised, therefore, when one winter's evening a well-dressed woman in Steinr garb, with something of the imperious mien of the changeling about her, walks out from the western lands of the Jotun. Her form seems to shift as she speaks, though always retaining the same haughty nobility. She is clearly not human but a herald of some kind, though she does not confirm whom she serves.

She says her name is the ''Witch'' - or perhaps she says the Wit? - of the Silver Woods. She has a message for icewalkers of the Mark who think themselves clever diplomats and friends to the ambitious, though she wishes to relay the details in person. She says she will come to Anvil at the upcoming summit to discuss the matter: she will arrive to the Wintermark fire pit around midnight on the first night of the summit, though she somewhat expects her hosts will find somewhere private to host her. She suggests that interested parties should keep themselves free both at that time and midnight on the ''second'' night, though why, she will not say.

She turns to leave, and then turns back to the guards. Her sister - the ''Wit'' - or perhaps she says the Witch? - of the Silver Woods has business with Dawn this summit, too, she says. She, however, will not be prepared to discuss that matter, so she expects that the people of the Mark will keep nosy Dawnish from ''their'' meeting.

===The Dust of Stars (Barien)===
* '''A herald is being sent by Barien at 14:00 on Saturday to Wintermark.'''
* '''They are a friend of the master forgemistress Ursula Starhammer.'''
* '''They want to speak to anyone who received a pinch of stardust from Ursula.'''
* '''They want to hear how their efforts to forge a hero with the stardust's power are proceeding.'''

The civil servants who watch over the Anvil regio between summits are used to seeing the heralds of Barien, but it is less usual to meet one who distinctly is not here to discuss Barien's challenges and the ritual thereof. As such, they are surprised when a golden figure, dressed as a Wintermark banner-bearer with a drum across their chest, emerges from the regio and quickly says just that.

They introduce themselves as Timbrel. They are a friend, it seems, of the master forgemistress Ursula Starhammer, who last summit began her search for a new apprentice. Apparently, Ursula met with a number of candidates in her forge, and enjoyed the experience. She set them something of a challenge, it seems: a challenge involving a substance called ''stardust'', which is to be used the "forge a new hero of the Mark".

Challenges, of course, are of great interest to the Iron Duke and his servants, and Timbrel - an old friend of Ursula, it seems - is no exception. They have offered to travel to Anvil to meet Ursula's candidates and ask how their efforts with the ''stardust'' are progressing. They would be interested to hear from any of the candidate's own chosen prospects, or from any stormcrows to whom the birds have brought any news of the challenge thus far, or to any scops who have any promising leads on anyone who might have earned a name - though so to do so so quickly would be quite unexpected.

Timbrel will arrive in the Hall of Worlds at around 14:00 on the Saturday of the summit, and then they intend to head directly to Wintermark. They would be most grateful if the Keeper of the Runegrott - a neighbour of Ursula, as it happens - or a chosen representative would meet them at the entrance to the Wintermark camp and point them at a good place to meet the challengers.
===Bribery, Conspiracy and Assassination (Basileia)===
* '''Two Heralds of Basileia Brazen intend to attend Anvil at 11:00 on Saturday'''
* '''They bring opportunities to bribe foreign dignitaries and to access a mysterious Chamber used for clandestine meetings'''
* '''They wish to speak with Enchanter Edmund Torawyr, Florence i Fuego i Erigo, and any Imperial title-holders who are potentially willing to accept bribes'''
* '''Another Herald of Basileia Brazen will visit Anvil at 14:00 on Saturday'''
* '''This Herald intends to discuss a contract taken out on the life of Jarl Haakon by an Imperial citizen'''

The City of Locks has been especially active after the recent ascension of [[Basileia|Basileia Brazen]] and the reformation of her advisory council, the Five Pillars. This season is no exception, as word arrives that three different Heralds intend to visit Anvil at various times for various purposes. Truly, treachery never sleeps.

Firstly, President Orlando of the City of Locks Benevolent Association and Facilitator Kaige of the Matchmaker's Forum intend to visit Anvil at 11:00 on Saturday to offer some opportunities of their own. The City of Locks Benevolent Association is apparently primarily concerned with facilitating bribery, and its President looks forward to visiting an Empire where such practices are not only permitted, but often [[List_of_Criminal_Offences#What_isn't_a_criminal_offence?|outright encouraged]]. Orlando apparently intends to drum up a little business by bringing two opportunities to pay significant bribes to foreign politicians. While the exact details of who is being bribed, what they will be bribed to do, and how much it will cost will all have to wait until the summit, the message does drop heavy hints that both of the individuals hoping to benefit from Imperial largesse are resident of nations deeply hostile to Imperial interests. Orlando's message also mentions that they would be quite happy to take offers from any titled citizens who wish to use their constitutionally-granted powers to enrich themselves. The world is full of people who will pay very well to have the levers if state pulled at their direction, and the City of Locks is always happy to act as a go-between.

Facilitator Kaige's reasons for attending Anvil are somewhat more opaque. They also intend to offer some form of opportunity to the Empire, but say even less than President Orlando about what this will entail. While the Matchmaker's Forum do arrange marriages and other romantic entanglements, they also apparently encourage more clandestine liaisons. As part of this, they apparently control access to a mysterious [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|Chamber]] which they refer to as the Conspirator's Congress. They are apparently minded to grant the Empire the ability to use this Chamber for its intended purpose, although what this will cost and what it will entail are matters for later discussion.

There is an odd and unexplained coda to these announcements: President Orlando and Facilitator Kaige would quite like to speak with Enchanter Edmund Torawyr and Florence i Fuego i Erigo respectively. It remains unclear why Heralds of the City of Locks continue to insist on speaking with apparently random Imperial citizens rather than titled officials, but they seem fundamentally disinclined to explain their motivations. Interested citizens might do well to seek out those named individuals if they wish to learn more.

Separately, Mistress Alabaster of the Guild of Accountants will attend Anvil to discuss the contact her people have been working on in the Mournwold. As has been noted [[Over_western_hills#Not_One_More_Inch_(Battle_Opportunity)|elsewhere]], an unknown Imperial citizen has apparently requested the aid of the City of Locks in ending the life of Jarl Haakon, and the Guild of Accountants have apparently obliged. According to the somewhat terse details given to the civil service, payment will be handled by the customer and the Military Council will not need to concern themselves with such matters. Mistress Alabaster will attend Anvil via the Hall of Worlds at 14:00 on Saturday to discuss matters with her client. If the Military Council elect to take the field in the Mournwold, she also intends to seek out the Field Marshal for said battle in order to clarify details of what assistance her people will provide. She will also offer details of what benefits the City of Locks are prepared to offer in exchange for [[Over_western_hills#Battle_outcome:_Divide_the_Spoils|Jarl Haakon's effects]].

===And Finally... (Tharim)===
{{SOP|statement=At the advisement of the Hakima we warn the Freeborn of Quzar to avoid the heralds of Tharim. Do not engage or provoke them. Continue to live with passion and joy despite these grim guests. We intend no offence to them. Their business is theirs - and our business is our own.|by=Martha i Guerra, Freeborn Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 134-0|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
* '''A thousand Ashen Knights of the Thrice-cursed Court, loyal to Tharim, are camped near Quzar in Madruga'''
The ''[[Tharim|Bound King]]'' has, for some time, been providing his black-armoured Bleak Knights as auxiliaries to fight alongside [[Imperial army|Imperial armies]]. During the Spring Equinox last year, Tharim [[Skeleton_key#Ashen_Knights_and_Grim_Days_(Tharim)|offered a new deal]], but '''Ematius of Urizen''', as [[Archmage of Winter]], [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Tharim,_Amity|politely declined]]. Since then, the knights - a thousand strong warband of ruthless magical warriors - have been camped in [[Madruga#Lightsea|Lightsea]] and show no sign of going anywhere. They ''did'' go and look at the destruction caused by the [[Where the river rises|rising of the Scorrero]], and apparently found it very entertaining.

During the Autumn Equinox, the Freeborn assembly reassured the people of Quzar - perhaps understandably concerned that there were a thousand very-hard-to-kill wickedly-cruel warriors camped on their doorstep - that they should leave the Bleak Knights alone and trust them to do the same. They have done so, although there have been a few reports of one or two Bleak Knights turning up unexpectedly in various parts of Madruga, apparently just to watch people. They give a horrible and unsettling impression of people ''waiting for something''.

[[Tharim]] himself remains silent on why exactly his heralds have not returned to the [[Realm#Winter|Winter realm]]. He continues to serve as a patron of the Conclave, preventing [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] from moving through that magical space without invitation unless the eternal they represent has [[Alignment#Amity|amity]]. This business with the knights, though, has people thinking. Back in Autumn 381YE a trio of heralds [[Hunters_and_wolves#In_the_Copse_of_the_Bone_Birch|entered the Empire]] in the Copse of the Bone Birch in Upwold. One of them, '''Obligatus''', is apparently still there but the other two... are pretty much unaccounted for. In fact, over the last several years there seem to be a lot more cases of heralds of Tharim ''entering'' the Empire than there are reports of them ''leaving''. A few people wonder if this is something the Conclave should be concerned about?

Obviously, the Bound King is ''extremely'' prickly about disrespect, and so if anyone were minded to raise the matter of his heralds not going back to the Wasteland with him they would likely want to do so very carefully. He is an ally of the Empire, however, so perhaps those people concerned about these Bleak Knights and such are just looking for shadows to jump at. Perhaps.

Template:Cosmology Further Reading

2025-06-03T01:34:03Z

Wafer-Thin-Reasoning: Undo revision 121191 by Wafer-Thin-Reasoning (talk) Larger effect than intended. Reverted to original state. Please note, the "Eternal" page still has a link to "Eternals" that self-references.

==Further Reading==
* [[Realm|Realms]]
* [[Eternal|Eternals]]
* [[Ritual_theory#Agreement|Eternals and rituals]]
* [[Inhabitants of the realms]]
* [[Regio]]
* [[Fane]]