Forever is composed of nows - Revision history

AmyMason: /* The La Salle Stratagem */

2026-04-15T10:53:11Z

The La Salle Stratagem

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:53, 15 April 2026
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	With that in mind, the Imperial Auditor proposes to hire someone to work in the Prognosticator's Office until Eilian Sweetwater returns to active duty. He has short-listed three possible candidates for the Senate to consider. La Salle's office has prepared a short dossier introducing each individual and covering their strengths and weaknesses. The Imperial Auditor is quick to reassure the Senate that there will be no increase to the costs of running the Prognosticator's Office - while Eilian is on sabbatical.		With that in mind, the Imperial Auditor proposes to hire someone to work in the Prognosticator's Office until Eilian Sweetwater returns to active duty. He has short-listed three possible candidates for the Senate to consider. La Salle's office has prepared a short dossier introducing each individual and covering their strengths and weaknesses. The Imperial Auditor is quick to reassure the Senate that there will be no increase to the costs of running the Prognosticator's Office - while Eilian is on sabbatical.

	At the Saturday ~~afternoon~~ Senate session, an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] will be raised to allow the Senate to decide which expert they deem the most useful. If the Senate selects one of the candidates, they will be able to deploy them during the Winter Solstice if they wish.		At the Saturday evening Senate session, an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] will be raised to allow the Senate to decide which expert they deem the most useful. If the Senate selects one of the candidates, they will be able to deploy them during the Winter Solstice if they wish.
	===Candidates===		===Candidates===
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Assembly Wisdom.png\|align=right\|width=200}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Assembly Wisdom.png\|align=right\|width=200}}

GuiltyConscience: /* Rosemary Stockland */

2026-03-27T11:10:56Z

Rosemary Stockland

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:10, 27 March 2026
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	[[Upwold#Stockland\|Stockland]] is a region of [[Upwold]] well known for its fair and for its sheep and cattle markets. For the last twenty years ''Rosemary Stockland'' has served as an [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Alder\|alder]] of the town, maintaining the peace and dealing with arguments between merchants from many parts of the Empire. A former [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]], she is known for plain speaking, and cutting to the heart of any problem. She's also renowned for her patience - while she may not suffer fools gladly she still does her best to get to the bottom of what it is they are after. It's been three decades since she was last at Anvil, but reports say she still keeps an eye on the doings at the centre of the Empire, especially with regards to the Bourse. Indeed, she was heavily involved with the [[High hopes\|cow bonds]] issued earlier this year, during Spring cattle drives, helping ensure that the scheme went off without any obvious hitches.		[[Upwold#Stockland\|Stockland]] is a region of [[Upwold]] well known for its fair and for its sheep and cattle markets. For the last twenty years ''Rosemary Stockland'' has served as an [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Alder\|alder]] of the town, maintaining the peace and dealing with arguments between merchants from many parts of the Empire. A former [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]], she is known for plain speaking, and cutting to the heart of any problem. She's also renowned for her patience - while she may not suffer fools gladly she still does her best to get to the bottom of what it is they are after. It's been three decades since she was last at Anvil, but reports say she still keeps an eye on the doings at the centre of the Empire, especially with regards to the Bourse. Indeed, she was heavily involved with the [[High hopes\|cow bonds]] issued earlier this year, during Spring cattle drives, helping ensure that the scheme went off without any obvious hitches.

	If Gerard approaches her to come and work with the Prognosticator's Office, he's sure she will agree. As a merchant, and more importantly perhaps a manager of merchants, she has contacts across the Empire. She's also interested in the idea of prosperity as a right of every Imperial citizen, and would be an excellent choice for any appraisal that focuses on improving the quality of life of Imperial citizens, establishing trade routes, or sorting out diplomatic snarls related to mercantile matters. If she has a weakness it is that solutions she provides are likely to based on mercantile arrangements that reward all parties.		If Gerard approaches her to come and work with the Prognosticator's Office, he's sure she will agree. As a merchant, and more importantly perhaps a manager of merchants, she has contacts across the Empire. She's also interested in the idea of prosperity as a right of every Imperial citizen, and would be an excellent choice for any appraisal that focuses on improving the quality of life of Imperial citizens, establishing trade routes, or sorting out diplomatic snarls related to mercantile matters. If she has a weakness it is that solutions she provides are likely to be based on mercantile arrangements that reward all parties.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=GreenShields_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=200}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=GreenShields_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=200}}

	====Vainakoma Dawnstongue====		====Vainakoma Dawnstongue====
	* '''Vainakoma is an ideal prognosticator to look for solutions to military problems'''		* '''Vainakoma is an ideal prognosticator to look for solutions to military problems'''

Hailmur: /* The Mladen Initiative */

2026-03-26T12:54:21Z

The Mladen Initiative

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:54, 26 March 2026
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	* '''The opportunity makes use of their existing ability to prepare an announcement for the Senate'''		* '''The opportunity makes use of their existing ability to prepare an announcement for the Senate'''
	* '''It is available only during the Winter Solstice'''		* '''It is available only during the Winter Solstice'''
	* '''The ~~current~~ Imperial Master of Works is ~~''Hebrun Weaver'' of the Marches~~'''		* '''The title of Imperial Master of Works is currently vacant'''
	Over the years there has been a lot of work done designing plans for [[fortification\|fortifications]] in all corners of the Empire. Many of those designs were based on now outmoded approaches to the castle-building sciences. While the more recent opportunities are easily revisited, there are dusty plans stretching back years that are now effectively obsolete. Some came from exotic sources such as [[eternal\|eternals]], while others were put together based on specific situations that are now either moot or no longer current. In theory it should be possible to recreate some of those opportunities in light of the new developments but doing so is likely to be "''a pain in the arse''" to be indelicate.		Over the years there has been a lot of work done designing plans for [[fortification\|fortifications]] in all corners of the Empire. Many of those designs were based on now outmoded approaches to the castle-building sciences. While the more recent opportunities are easily revisited, there are dusty plans stretching back years that are now effectively obsolete. Some came from exotic sources such as [[eternal\|eternals]], while others were put together based on specific situations that are now either moot or no longer current. In theory it should be possible to recreate some of those opportunities in light of the new developments but doing so is likely to be "''a pain in the arse''" to be indelicate.

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	Enter ''[[Appraisal#Mladen Escovitch\|Mladen Escovitch]]'', "retired" prognosticator. Since leaving full-time service in the Prognosticators Office he has done a little "freelance" work, including the recent appraisal regarding the [[Hope and fear\|vulnerabilities of the Druj military]]. The old campaigner has offered to come out of retirement again to do "one last job" - in this case to go over existing opportunities to create fortifications and update them. Or, more specifically, he's prepared to work with the [[Imperial Master of Works]] in this matter. They already have the ability to make an [[Senate announcement\|announcement]] to the Senate regarding the repair and improvement of fortifications. Mladen proposes they use this power to select three existing opportunities that involve building a new fortification, or improving an existing one. At the Spring Equinox, Mladen will present his findings as to how the Empire can take advantage of those opportunities despite recent changes.		Enter ''[[Appraisal#Mladen Escovitch\|Mladen Escovitch]]'', "retired" prognosticator. Since leaving full-time service in the Prognosticators Office he has done a little "freelance" work, including the recent appraisal regarding the [[Hope and fear\|vulnerabilities of the Druj military]]. The old campaigner has offered to come out of retirement again to do "one last job" - in this case to go over existing opportunities to create fortifications and update them. Or, more specifically, he's prepared to work with the [[Imperial Master of Works]] in this matter. They already have the ability to make an [[Senate announcement\|announcement]] to the Senate regarding the repair and improvement of fortifications. Mladen proposes they use this power to select three existing opportunities that involve building a new fortification, or improving an existing one. At the Spring Equinox, Mladen will present his findings as to how the Empire can take advantage of those opportunities despite recent changes.

	Mladen is not a patient man~~, however. Should~~ the Imperial Master of Works wish to take advantage of ~~Mladen's~~ offer, they will need to do so during the Winter Solstice. ~~The current~~ Imperial Master of Works is ~~'''Hebrun Weaver''' of [[~~the ~~Marches]]~~.		Mladen is not a patient man; should the Imperial Master of Works wish to take advantage of his offer, they will need to do so during the Winter Solstice. Awkwardly, the position of Imperial Master of Works is currently vacant, so the Military Council will need to appoint someone to the role if they wish to see previous opportunities for fortifications revisited.

	==The La Salle Stratagem==		==The La Salle Stratagem==
	* '''Gerard La Salle plans to employ an additional prognosticator while Eilian Sweetwater is indisposed'''		* '''Gerard La Salle plans to employ an additional prognosticator while Eilian Sweetwater is indisposed'''

Rafferty: /* The Abraham Gambit */

2026-03-23T15:14:54Z

The Abraham Gambit

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:14, 23 March 2026
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	The two Court members are prepared to commit to make the facility available for the next year. Whether the civil service have the capacity to support the arrangements beyond that point is a matter of disagreement between Leontes and Abraham. The former publicly opines that there's no reason they shouldn't be able to keep doing it after that point if it proves useful to the Throne. "After all," he says gloomily "we'd probably have to do the work anyway it's just a matter of ''when'' we have to do it. And at least this way the Senate can see what they are buying before they get their sack home and discover it's full of rats." Abraham seems more circumspect, at least for now, arguing that the civil service can't offer the support indefinitely until they know how much work it takes. The ageing magistrate seems to have gotten his way, at least for now.		The two Court members are prepared to commit to make the facility available for the next year. Whether the civil service have the capacity to support the arrangements beyond that point is a matter of disagreement between Leontes and Abraham. The former publicly opines that there's no reason they shouldn't be able to keep doing it after that point if it proves useful to the Throne. "After all," he says gloomily "we'd probably have to do the work anyway it's just a matter of ''when'' we have to do it. And at least this way the Senate can see what they are buying before they get their sack home and discover it's full of rats." Abraham seems more circumspect, at least for now, arguing that the civil service can't offer the support indefinitely until they know how much work it takes. The ageing magistrate seems to have gotten his way, at least for now.

			'''OOC Note:''' If you want to send a letter to the Emperor about your sodality, they're happy to receive them but please send it to Vesna.Borkovna.Prochnost@gmail.com rather than direct messaging. It's also important to remember that Vesna is a player character, and has a very busy real life job as well as being the Imperial Throne.

	<big>'''Design Note'''</big><br>		<big>'''Design Note'''</big><br>
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	This also means that rather than the current situation, where we have listed changes to the manifesto that would increase or decrease the power of a sodality, we'll be able to issue that guidance in-character ''before'' the Imperial Sodality is created meaning that any changes can be made before the senate motion creating the sodality is presented.		This also means that rather than the current situation, where we have listed changes to the manifesto that would increase or decrease the power of a sodality, we'll be able to issue that guidance in-character ''before'' the Imperial Sodality is created meaning that any changes can be made before the senate motion creating the sodality is presented.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Theodolit-zeiss.jpg\|align=left\|caption=Commonwealth universities take a role similar to that of the civil service in Commonwealth affairs - including the presentation of appraisals for discussion by the nation's generals.\|width=400}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Theodolit-zeiss.jpg\|align=left\|caption=Commonwealth universities take a role similar to that of the civil service in Commonwealth affairs - including the presentation of appraisals for discussion by the nation's generals.\|width=400}}</div>

	==Die Beurteilung Betrieb==		==Die Beurteilung Betrieb==
	* '''Professor Gelberg remains committed to working with the Patron of the Beurteilung until at least Winter 388YE		* '''Professor Gelberg remains committed to working with the Patron of the Beurteilung until at least Winter 388YE

Twiggy at 14:38, 23 March 2026

2026-03-23T14:38:48Z

Twiggy: /* The Sweetwater Scenario */

2026-03-23T14:23:58Z

The Sweetwater Scenario

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:23, 23 March 2026
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	==The Sweetwater Scenario==		==The Sweetwater Scenario==
	* '''Eilian Sweetwater remains unaccounted for		* '''Eilian Sweetwater remains unaccounted for
	One final matter relates to the ~~wherabouts~~ of beloved prognosticator and former researcher ''[[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]]''. He and his small team disappeared during the Grendel attack on Redoubt, which unfortunately started just as they arrived at the fallen [[Urizen_groups#The_Lighthouse_at_Nikephoros\|Lighthouse at Nikephoros]]. There has been no concrete news about his ~~wherabouts~~, although rumour has begun to spread that the eternal ''Khobel Tavah'' alluded during the [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed\|Autumn parley]] to either having Eilian in custody, or having provided them a sanctuary, or perhaps even having consumed him and his associated, depending which version of the story one listens to. For now Gerard ~~laSalle~~ is obviously concerned, and interested in hearing from anyone who might have any concrete information about his ~~wherabouts~~.		One final matter relates to the whereabouts of beloved prognosticator and former researcher ''[[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]]''. He and his small team disappeared during the Grendel attack on Redoubt, which unfortunately started just as they arrived at the fallen [[Urizen_groups#The_Lighthouse_at_Nikephoros\|Lighthouse at Nikephoros]]. There has been no concrete news about his whereabouts, although rumour has begun to spread that the eternal ''Khobel Tavah'' alluded during the [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed\|Autumn parley]] to either having Eilian in custody, or having provided them a sanctuary, or perhaps even having consumed him and his associated, depending which version of the story one listens to. For now Gerard La Salle is obviously concerned, and interested in hearing from anyone who might have any concrete information about his whereabouts.

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==

Rafferty: /* The Sweetwater Scenario */

2026-03-23T14:22:11Z

The Sweetwater Scenario

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:22, 23 March 2026
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	==The Sweetwater Scenario==		==The Sweetwater Scenario==
	* '''Eilian Sweetwater remains unaccounted for		* '''Eilian Sweetwater remains unaccounted for
	One final matter relates to the wherabouts of beloved prognosticator and former researcher ''[[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]]''. He and his small team disappeared during the Grendel attack on Redoubt, which unfortunately started just as they arrived at the fallen [[Urizen_groups#The_Lighthouse_at_Nikephoros\|Lighthouse at Nikephoros]]. There has been no concrete news about his wherabouts, although rumour has begun to spread that the eternal ''~~Kobal Tava~~'' alluded during the [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed\|Autumn parley]] to either having Eilian in custody, or having provided them a sanctuary, or perhaps even having consumed him and his associated, depending which version of the story one listens to. For now Gerard laSalle is obviously concerned, and interested in hearing from anyone who might have any concrete information about his wherabouts.		One final matter relates to the wherabouts of beloved prognosticator and former researcher ''[[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]]''. He and his small team disappeared during the Grendel attack on Redoubt, which unfortunately started just as they arrived at the fallen [[Urizen_groups#The_Lighthouse_at_Nikephoros\|Lighthouse at Nikephoros]]. There has been no concrete news about his wherabouts, although rumour has begun to spread that the eternal ''Khobel Tavah'' alluded during the [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed\|Autumn parley]] to either having Eilian in custody, or having provided them a sanctuary, or perhaps even having consumed him and his associated, depending which version of the story one listens to. For now Gerard laSalle is obviously concerned, and interested in hearing from anyone who might have any concrete information about his wherabouts.

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==

Rafferty: /* Die Beurtilung Betrieb */

2026-03-23T14:21:11Z

Die Beurtilung Betrieb

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:21, 23 March 2026
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	With [[Cold war\|recent events]] in the east, there is some discussion about whether Gelberg and his peers will return home to help against [[Cold Sun]]. When asked directly, Gelberg shrugs and opines that a handful of academics are not going to make any more difference in a war against an eternal than they would in the war against Jarm and that they serve their country best by continuing to strengthen ties and sympathy in the Empire. And by making money, of course. As such the [[Patron of the Beurteilung]] title will continue to remain available to the Empire's citizens until at least the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE.		With [[Cold war\|recent events]] in the east, there is some discussion about whether Gelberg and his peers will return home to help against [[Cold Sun]]. When asked directly, Gelberg shrugs and opines that a handful of academics are not going to make any more difference in a war against an eternal than they would in the war against Jarm and that they serve their country best by continuing to strengthen ties and sympathy in the Empire. And by making money, of course. As such the [[Patron of the Beurteilung]] title will continue to remain available to the Empire's citizens until at least the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE.
			==The Sweetwater Scenario==
			* '''Eilian Sweetwater remains unaccounted for
			One final matter relates to the wherabouts of beloved prognosticator and former researcher ''[[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]]''. He and his small team disappeared during the Grendel attack on Redoubt, which unfortunately started just as they arrived at the fallen [[Urizen_groups#The_Lighthouse_at_Nikephoros\|Lighthouse at Nikephoros]]. There has been no concrete news about his wherabouts, although rumour has begun to spread that the eternal ''Kobal Tava'' alluded during the [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed\|Autumn parley]] to either having Eilian in custody, or having provided them a sanctuary, or perhaps even having consumed him and his associated, depending which version of the story one listens to. For now Gerard laSalle is obviously concerned, and interested in hearing from anyone who might have any concrete information about his wherabouts.

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==
	* [[Appraisal]]		* [[Appraisal]]

Twiggy at 14:20, 23 March 2026

2026-03-23T14:20:48Z

Hailmur at 14:16, 23 March 2026

2026-03-23T14:16:27Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:38, 23 March 2026
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	* '''Rosemary is an ideal prognosticator to look for mercantile solutions to problems'''		* '''Rosemary is an ideal prognosticator to look for mercantile solutions to problems'''
	* '''She will pursue opportunities that involve trades in which all parties gain'''		* '''She will pursue opportunities that involve trades in which all parties gain'''
	[[Upwold#Stockland\|Stockland]] is a region of [[Upwold]] well known for its fair and for its sheep and cattle markets. For the last twenty years ''Rosemary Stockland'' has served as an [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Alder\|alder]] of the town, maintaining the peace and dealing with arguments between merchants from many parts of the Empire. A former [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] she is known for plain speaking, and cutting to the heart of any problem. She's also renowned for her patience - while she may not suffer fools gladly she still does her best to get to the bottom of what it is they are after. It's been three decades since she was last at Anvil, but reports say she still keeps an eye on the doings at the centre of the Empire especially with regards to the Bourse. Indeed, she was heavily involved with the [[High hopes\|cow bonds]] issued earlier this year, during Spring cattle drives, helping ensure that the scheme went off without any obvious hitches.		[[Upwold#Stockland\|Stockland]] is a region of [[Upwold]] well known for its fair and for its sheep and cattle markets. For the last twenty years ''Rosemary Stockland'' has served as an [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Alder\|alder]] of the town, maintaining the peace and dealing with arguments between merchants from many parts of the Empire. A former [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]], she is known for plain speaking, and cutting to the heart of any problem. She's also renowned for her patience - while she may not suffer fools gladly she still does her best to get to the bottom of what it is they are after. It's been three decades since she was last at Anvil, but reports say she still keeps an eye on the doings at the centre of the Empire, especially with regards to the Bourse. Indeed, she was heavily involved with the [[High hopes\|cow bonds]] issued earlier this year, during Spring cattle drives, helping ensure that the scheme went off without any obvious hitches.

	If Gerard approaches her to come and work with the Prognosticator's Office, he's sure she will agree. As a merchant, and more importantly perhaps a manager of merchants, she has contacts across the Empire. She's also interested in the idea of prosperity as a right of every Imperial citizen, and would be an excellent choice for any appraisal that focuses on improving the quality of life of Imperial citizens, establishing trade routes, or sorting out diplomatic snarls related to mercantile matters. If she has a weakness it is that solutions she provides are likely to based on mercantile arrangements that reward all parties.		If Gerard approaches her to come and work with the Prognosticator's Office, he's sure she will agree. As a merchant, and more importantly perhaps a manager of merchants, she has contacts across the Empire. She's also interested in the idea of prosperity as a right of every Imperial citizen, and would be an excellent choice for any appraisal that focuses on improving the quality of life of Imperial citizens, establishing trade routes, or sorting out diplomatic snarls related to mercantile matters. If she has a weakness it is that solutions she provides are likely to based on mercantile arrangements that reward all parties.
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	Gerard can afford the temporary secondment of one of these three, but candidly would prefer to bring ''all'' of them into the Civil Service. The wider the range of prognosticators, he says, the more options the Senate has and the less strain is placed on the individual civil servants - who often have to spend months at a time in the field in often quite stressful situations. Temporary secondment would allow one of the three to join the office for as long as Eilian Sweetwater is on sabbatical, and they would retire once the [[Navarr]] historian returned to active duty (assuming he survives the apparently dangerous matter of looking at lighthouse ruins).		Gerard can afford the temporary secondment of one of these three, but candidly would prefer to bring ''all'' of them into the Civil Service. The wider the range of prognosticators, he says, the more options the Senate has and the less strain is placed on the individual civil servants - who often have to spend months at a time in the field in often quite stressful situations. Temporary secondment would allow one of the three to join the office for as long as Eilian Sweetwater is on sabbatical, and they would retire once the [[Navarr]] historian returned to active duty (assuming he survives the apparently dangerous matter of looking at lighthouse ruins).

	The Senate could choose to instruct Gerard to approach ''all'' of three candidates, to offer each of them a permanent position with the Prognosticators Office. If this were done, Gerard would be able to retain all three potential recruits even when Eilian returns to work. The downside is that it would increase the upkeep of the prognosticators office by 6 thrones - the money would cover both the expenses for the prognosticators and for a larger staff of dedicated civil servants supporting them. Hiring additional prognosticators would '''not''' give the Senate the ability to conduct more appraisals, but it would mean that they had more options to choose between.		The Senate could choose to instruct Gerard to approach ''all'' three candidates, to offer each of them a permanent position with the Prognosticators Office. If this were done, Gerard would be able to retain all three potential recruits even when Eilian returns to work. The downside is that it would increase the upkeep of the prognosticators office by 6 thrones - the money would cover both the expenses for the prognosticators and for a larger staff of dedicated civil servants supporting them. Hiring additional prognosticators would '''not''' give the Senate the ability to conduct more appraisals, but it would mean that they had more options to choose between.
	<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=MasterMint.jpg\|caption='''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', Master of the Imperial Mint\|width=300\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=MasterMint.jpg\|caption='''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', Master of the Imperial Mint\|width=300\|align=right}}</div>
	====Opportunity Knocks Again====		====Opportunity Knocks Again====
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	One of the challenges of a game like Empire, that has been running for over a decade with multiple winds of fortune every event, is keeping track of opportunities offered. Sometimes the actual rules of the game change in a way that means an earlier opportunity is no longer available, as with the [[Rules_update_2026\|recent changes]] to the [[Rules_update_2026#Fortifications_and_Citadels\|fortification rules]] or details of how the [[Rules_update_2026#Vallorn\|vallorn may be fought]]. Other times, the situation has changed significantly - the opportunity to fortify Sarcombe being presented before two years of war saw the town conquered and liberated. At the moment the only way to check in on an opportunity is to e-mail Profound Decisions which is ultimately unsatisfactory, not least because the outcome is likely to be either a binary "yes" or "no". Many other opportunities are designed with a one-year "sunset clause" that means they are no longer available after a certain point even though there is not always a narrative reason they should not be.		One of the challenges of a game like Empire, that has been running for over a decade with multiple winds of fortune every event, is keeping track of opportunities offered. Sometimes the actual rules of the game change in a way that means an earlier opportunity is no longer available, as with the [[Rules_update_2026\|recent changes]] to the [[Rules_update_2026#Fortifications_and_Citadels\|fortification rules]] or details of how the [[Rules_update_2026#Vallorn\|vallorn may be fought]]. Other times, the situation has changed significantly - the opportunity to fortify Sarcombe being presented before two years of war saw the town conquered and liberated. At the moment the only way to check in on an opportunity is to e-mail Profound Decisions which is ultimately unsatisfactory, not least because the outcome is likely to be either a binary "yes" or "no". Many other opportunities are designed with a one-year "sunset clause" that means they are no longer available after a certain point even though there is not always a narrative reason they should not be.

	The idea of this power is that, if the Senate wishes, they can "refresh" an existing opportunity without needing to commission an entire new [[appraisal]]. It's not possible to ask for a "refresh" on an entire wind of fortune, but pointing to a specific opportunity - such as the "Third Pie" in Mournwold or the opportunity to establish a certain trade route - allows us to review that opportunity quickly and come up with an in-character answer that is then available to everyone. As with an appraisal our intention is that, wherever possible, we'll provide something constructive in response to this request to refresh an opportunity - and if for whatever reason ~~its~~ not possible to do that due to changes in the game or its rules we will provide some direction as to how something similar might be achieved.		The idea of this power is that, if the Senate wishes, they can "refresh" an existing opportunity without needing to commission an entire new [[appraisal]]. It's not possible to ask for a "refresh" on an entire wind of fortune, but pointing to a specific opportunity - such as the "Third Pie" in Mournwold or the opportunity to establish a certain trade route - allows us to review that opportunity quickly and come up with an in-character answer that is then available to everyone. As with an appraisal our intention is that, wherever possible, we'll provide something constructive in response to this request to refresh an opportunity - and if for whatever reason it's not possible to do that due to changes in the game or its rules we will provide some direction as to how something similar might be achieved.
	<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Apothecaries Guild.png\|caption=The [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]].\|align=right\|width=200}}		<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Apothecaries Guild.png\|caption=The [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]].\|align=right\|width=200}}
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magpie Sodality.png\|caption=The [[Magpies]].\|align=right\|width=200}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magpie Sodality.png\|caption=The [[Magpies]].\|align=right\|width=200}}

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	[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]		[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]
	<ic>The big ''schlacta'' sat with his hands on his knees, his back ramrod straight, looking Gerard straight in the eyes with an intensity that made the Imperial Auditor of the Imperial Treasury uncomfortable. ~~LaSalle~~ always did his best not to let his dislike of the old campaigner colour his judgement, but Mladen did not make it easy.		<ic>The big ''schlacta'' sat with his hands on his knees, his back ramrod straight, looking Gerard straight in the eyes with an intensity that made the Imperial Auditor of the Imperial Treasury uncomfortable. La Salle always did his best not to let his dislike of the old campaigner colour his judgement, but Mladen did not make it easy.

	"So you're prepared to come back for 'one last job'? Again?" Gerard's sarcasm was clearly lost on the Varushkan.		"So you're prepared to come back for 'one last job'? Again?" Gerard's sarcasm was clearly lost on the Varushkan.
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	One of the powerful tools available to the [[Senate]] is the ability to commission an [[appraisal]]. The Prognosticator's Office works with the rest of the civil service, and with Imperial citizens, foreign representatives, and even [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds\|heralds]] of the [[eternal]] [[realms]] to try and find solutions to problems plaguing the Empire. Once the investigation is complete, they present [[opportunity\|opportunities]] to overcome obstacles, achieve ambitious goals, or improve the prosperity of the Empire.		One of the powerful tools available to the [[Senate]] is the ability to commission an [[appraisal]]. The Prognosticator's Office works with the rest of the civil service, and with Imperial citizens, foreign representatives, and even [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds\|heralds]] of the [[eternal]] [[realms]] to try and find solutions to problems plaguing the Empire. Once the investigation is complete, they present [[opportunity\|opportunities]] to overcome obstacles, achieve ambitious goals, or improve the prosperity of the Empire.

	There are limits to what the civil service can achieve however, and competition for the resources of the ~~Prongosticator~~'s Office is often fierce. There are only a handful of Prognosticators at a time, and in recent months they have become a little stretched with retirements, in-depth long-term projects, and at least one sabbatical/disappearance. With that in mind, several opportunities have been discussed related to the department of the civil service responsible for establishing, evaluating, and presenting opportunities.		There are limits to what the civil service can achieve however, and competition for the resources of the Prognosticator's Office is often fierce. There are only a handful of Prognosticators at a time, and in recent months they have become a little stretched with retirements, in-depth long-term projects, and at least one sabbatical/disappearance. With that in mind, several opportunities have been discussed related to the department of the civil service responsible for establishing, evaluating, and presenting opportunities.
	==The Mladen Initiative==		==The Mladen Initiative==
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=DawnAndUrizen.jpg\|caption=[[Fortification\|Fortifications]] protect both Imperial borders and the heartland of the Empire, and there are regular opportunities to build new ones or strengthen existing [[fortification#bastion\|bastions]].\|align=left\|width=400}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=DawnAndUrizen.jpg\|caption=[[Fortification\|Fortifications]] protect both Imperial borders and the heartland of the Empire, and there are regular opportunities to build new ones or strengthen existing [[fortification#bastion\|bastions]].\|align=left\|width=400}}</div>
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	* '''Lisane is an ideal prognosticator to look for virtuous solutions to problems'''		* '''Lisane is an ideal prognosticator to look for virtuous solutions to problems'''
	* '''She will not pursue avenues she considers to be fundamentally unvirtuous'''		* '''She will not pursue avenues she considers to be fundamentally unvirtuous'''
	The Terres is a narrow river that runs through [[Semmerholm]], and House Terresford is a relatively minor [[noble house]] that looks after the ford. They are not an especially old house - dating back to the time of [[Emperor Hugh]] - but they have a reputation among the yeofolk for being even-handed and loyal. ''Lisane de Terresford'' is currently [[earl]] of the house, but has been looking for a successor for some time. Earlier this year, she found one, and is now preparing to retire and spend her time "keeping bees". Gerard le Salle plans, with Senate approval, to approach her with an eye toward joining the Prognosticator's Office on a temporary basis.		The Terres is a narrow river that runs through [[Semmerholm]], and House Terresford is a relatively minor [[noble house]] that looks after the ford. They are not an especially old house - dating back to the time of [[Emperor Hugh]] - but they have a reputation among the yeofolk for being even-handed and loyal. ''Lisane de Terresford'' is currently [[earl]] of the house, but has been looking for a successor for some time. Earlier this year, she found one, and is now preparing to retire and spend her time "keeping bees". Gerard La Salle plans, with Senate approval, to approach her with an eye toward joining the Prognosticator's Office on a temporary basis.

	Before becoming earl, Lisane visited [[Anvil]] many times and was intimately involved with the doings of the [[Synod]]. She was known for her [[Wisdom]], and for her commitment to asking questions rather than taking easy answers. Gerard believes that she will add a much needed spiritual perspective to the business of the Prognosticators, being an ideal appraiser to look for specifically virtuous solutions to the problems the Senate raises. If she has a weakness it is that she will not pursue avenues she considers to be fundamentally ~~unvirtous~~, even if they might present an easier or cheaper opportunity.		Before becoming earl, Lisane visited [[Anvil]] many times and was intimately involved with the doings of the [[Synod]]. She was known for her [[Wisdom]], and for her commitment to asking questions rather than taking easy answers. Gerard believes that she will add a much needed spiritual perspective to the business of the Prognosticators, being an ideal appraiser to look for specifically virtuous solutions to the problems the Senate raises. If she has a weakness it is that she will not pursue avenues she considers to be fundamentally unvirtuous, even if they might present an easier or cheaper opportunity.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Cute and Cuddly Cows.png\|width=200\|align=right}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Cute and Cuddly Cows.png\|width=200\|align=right}}
	====Rosemary Stockland====		====Rosemary Stockland====
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	[[Upwold#Stockland\|Stockland]] is a region of [[Upwold]] well known for its fair and for its sheep and cattle markets. For the last twenty years ''Rosemary Stockland'' has served as an [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Alder\|alder]] of the town, maintaining the peace and dealing with arguments between merchants from many parts of the Empire. A former [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] she is known for plain speaking, and cutting to the heart of any problem. She's also renowned for her patience - while she may not suffer fools gladly she still does her best to get to the bottom of what it is they are after. It's been three decades since she was last at Anvil, but reports say she still keeps an eye on the doings at the centre of the Empire especially with regards to the Bourse. Indeed, she was heavily involved with the [[High hopes\|cow bonds]] issued earlier this year, during Spring cattle drives, helping ensure that the scheme went off without any obvious hitches.		[[Upwold#Stockland\|Stockland]] is a region of [[Upwold]] well known for its fair and for its sheep and cattle markets. For the last twenty years ''Rosemary Stockland'' has served as an [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Alder\|alder]] of the town, maintaining the peace and dealing with arguments between merchants from many parts of the Empire. A former [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] she is known for plain speaking, and cutting to the heart of any problem. She's also renowned for her patience - while she may not suffer fools gladly she still does her best to get to the bottom of what it is they are after. It's been three decades since she was last at Anvil, but reports say she still keeps an eye on the doings at the centre of the Empire especially with regards to the Bourse. Indeed, she was heavily involved with the [[High hopes\|cow bonds]] issued earlier this year, during Spring cattle drives, helping ensure that the scheme went off without any obvious hitches.

	If Gerard approaches her to come and work with the Prognosticator's Office, he's sure she will agree. As a merchant, and more importantly perhaps a manager of merchants, she has contacts across the Empire. She's also interested in the idea of prosperity as a right of every Imperial citizen, and would be an excellent choice for any appraisal that focuses on improving the quality of life of Imperial citizens, establishing trade routes, or sorting out diplomatic snarls related to mercantile matters. If she has a weakness it is that solutions she provides are likely to based on mercantile ~~arrnagements~~ that reward all parties.		If Gerard approaches her to come and work with the Prognosticator's Office, he's sure she will agree. As a merchant, and more importantly perhaps a manager of merchants, she has contacts across the Empire. She's also interested in the idea of prosperity as a right of every Imperial citizen, and would be an excellent choice for any appraisal that focuses on improving the quality of life of Imperial citizens, establishing trade routes, or sorting out diplomatic snarls related to mercantile matters. If she has a weakness it is that solutions she provides are likely to based on mercantile arrangements that reward all parties.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=GreenShields_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=200}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=GreenShields_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=200}}
	====Vainakoma Dawnstongue====		====Vainakoma Dawnstongue====
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	* '''The Imperial Senate could instruct Gerard to take on all three prognosticators on a permanent basis'''		* '''The Imperial Senate could instruct Gerard to take on all three prognosticators on a permanent basis'''
	* '''Doing so would increase the upkeep costs of the Prognosticators office by 6 thrones a season'''		* '''Doing so would increase the upkeep costs of the Prognosticators office by 6 thrones a season'''
	* '''Additional ~~prognisticators~~ would give the Senate more options to choose between - it would not allow for more appraisals'''		* '''Additional prognosticators would give the Senate more options to choose between - it would not allow for more appraisals'''
	Gerard can afford the temporary secondment of one of these three, but candidly would prefer to bring ''all'' of them into the Civil Service. The wider the range of prognosticators, he says, the more options the Senate has and the less strain is placed on the individual civil servants - who often have to spend months at a time in the field in often quite stressful situations. Temporary secondment would allow one of the three to join the office for as long as Eilian Sweetwater is on sabbatical, and they would retire once the [[Navarr]] historian returned to active duty (assuming he survives the apparently dangerous matter of looking at lighthouse ruins).		Gerard can afford the temporary secondment of one of these three, but candidly would prefer to bring ''all'' of them into the Civil Service. The wider the range of prognosticators, he says, the more options the Senate has and the less strain is placed on the individual civil servants - who often have to spend months at a time in the field in often quite stressful situations. Temporary secondment would allow one of the three to join the office for as long as Eilian Sweetwater is on sabbatical, and they would retire once the [[Navarr]] historian returned to active duty (assuming he survives the apparently dangerous matter of looking at lighthouse ruins).

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	This also means that rather than the current situation, where we have listed changes to the manifesto that would increase or decrease the power of a sodality, we'll be able to issue that guidance in-character ''before'' the Imperial Sodality is created meaning that any changes can be made before the senate motion creating the sodality is presented.		This also means that rather than the current situation, where we have listed changes to the manifesto that would increase or decrease the power of a sodality, we'll be able to issue that guidance in-character ''before'' the Imperial Sodality is created meaning that any changes can be made before the senate motion creating the sodality is presented.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Theodolit-zeiss.jpg\|align=left\|caption=Commonwealth ~~universitiestake~~ a role similar to that of the civil service in Commonwealth affairs - including the presentation of appraisals for discussion by the nation's generals.\|width=400}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Theodolit-zeiss.jpg\|align=left\|caption=Commonwealth universities take a role similar to that of the civil service in Commonwealth affairs - including the presentation of appraisals for discussion by the nation's generals.\|width=400}}</div>
	==Die ~~Beurtilung~~ Betrieb==		==Die Beurteilung Betrieb==
	* '''Professor Gelberg remains committed to working with the Patron of the ~~Beurtilung~~ until at least Winter 388YE		* '''Professor Gelberg remains committed to working with the Patron of the Beurteilung until at least Winter 388YE
	Last Spring the Senate [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Endorse_Professor_Gelberg\|endorsed]] the visiting [[Commonwealth]] academic, Professor Immanuel Gelberg. With the support of the University of [[Foreign_ports#Volkavaar\|Volkavaar]], the professor brought a cadre of scholars, engineers, and students to the Empire to offer their services to Imperial citizens as a way to raise funds for the war against Jarm. They have established [[Germinating_a_city#Die_Beurteilung\|Die Beurteilung]] - a kind of freelance appraisal team whose services are secured through Imperial auction - and offered their expertise in a variety of situations. They are also, by all accounts, greatly enjoying the warm reception they have received and the chance to explore the Empire.		Last Spring the Senate [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Endorse_Professor_Gelberg\|endorsed]] the visiting [[Commonwealth]] academic, Professor Immanuel Gelberg. With the support of the University of [[Foreign_ports#Volkavaar\|Volkavaar]], the professor brought a cadre of scholars, engineers, and students to the Empire to offer their services to Imperial citizens as a way to raise funds for the war against Jarm. They have established [[Germinating_a_city#Die_Beurteilung\|Die Beurteilung]] - a kind of freelance appraisal team whose services are secured through Imperial auction - and offered their expertise in a variety of situations. They are also, by all accounts, greatly enjoying the warm reception they have received and the chance to explore the Empire.

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:16, 23 March 2026
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	There are limits to what the civil service can achieve however, and competition for the resources of the Prongosticator's Office is often fierce. There are only a handful of Prognosticators at a time, and in recent months they have become a little stretched with retirements, in-depth long-term projects, and at least one sabbatical/disappearance. With that in mind, several opportunities have been discussed related to the department of the civil service responsible for establishing, evaluating, and presenting opportunities.		There are limits to what the civil service can achieve however, and competition for the resources of the Prongosticator's Office is often fierce. There are only a handful of Prognosticators at a time, and in recent months they have become a little stretched with retirements, in-depth long-term projects, and at least one sabbatical/disappearance. With that in mind, several opportunities have been discussed related to the department of the civil service responsible for establishing, evaluating, and presenting opportunities.
			==The Mladen Initiative==
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=DawnAndUrizen.jpg\|caption=[[Fortification\|Fortifications]] protect both Imperial borders and the heartland of the Empire, and there are regular opportunities to build new ones or strengthen existing [[fortification#bastion\|bastions]].\|align=left\|width=400}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=DawnAndUrizen.jpg\|caption=[[Fortification\|Fortifications]] protect both Imperial borders and the heartland of the Empire, and there are regular opportunities to build new ones or strengthen existing [[fortification#bastion\|bastions]].\|align=left\|width=400}}</div>
	~~==The Mladen Initiative==~~
	* '''Retired prognosticator Mladen Escovitch offers to work with the Imperial Master of Works to review opportunities related to fortifications'''		* '''Retired prognosticator Mladen Escovitch offers to work with the Imperial Master of Works to review opportunities related to fortifications'''
	* '''The opportunity makes use of their existing ability to prepare an announcement for the Senate'''		* '''The opportunity makes use of their existing ability to prepare an announcement for the Senate'''
	* '''It is available only during the Winter Solstice'''		* '''It is available only during the Winter Solstice'''
	* '''The current Imperial Master of Works is Hebrun Weaver of the Marches		* '''The current Imperial Master of Works is ''Hebrun Weaver'' of the Marches'''
	Over the years there has been a lot of work done designing plans for [[fortification\|fortifications]] in all corners of the Empire. Many of those designs were based on now outmoded approaches to the castle-building sciences. While the more recent opportunities are easily revisited, there are dusty plans stretching back years that are now effectively obsolete. Some came from exotic sources such as [[eternal\|eternals]], while others were put together based on specific situations that are now either moot or no longer current. In theory it should be possible to recreate some of those opportunities in light of the new developments but doing so is likely to be "''a pain in the arse''" to be indelicate.		Over the years there has been a lot of work done designing plans for [[fortification\|fortifications]] in all corners of the Empire. Many of those designs were based on now outmoded approaches to the castle-building sciences. While the more recent opportunities are easily revisited, there are dusty plans stretching back years that are now effectively obsolete. Some came from exotic sources such as [[eternal\|eternals]], while others were put together based on specific situations that are now either moot or no longer current. In theory it should be possible to recreate some of those opportunities in light of the new developments but doing so is likely to be "''a pain in the arse''" to be indelicate.

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	The Senate could choose to instruct Gerard to approach ''all'' of three candidates, to offer each of them a permanent position with the Prognosticators Office. If this were done, Gerard would be able to retain all three potential recruits even when Eilian returns to work. The downside is that it would increase the upkeep of the prognosticators office by 6 thrones - the money would cover both the expenses for the prognosticators and for a larger staff of dedicated civil servants supporting them. Hiring additional prognosticators would '''not''' give the Senate the ability to conduct more appraisals, but it would mean that they had more options to choose between.		The Senate could choose to instruct Gerard to approach ''all'' of three candidates, to offer each of them a permanent position with the Prognosticators Office. If this were done, Gerard would be able to retain all three potential recruits even when Eilian returns to work. The downside is that it would increase the upkeep of the prognosticators office by 6 thrones - the money would cover both the expenses for the prognosticators and for a larger staff of dedicated civil servants supporting them. Hiring additional prognosticators would '''not''' give the Senate the ability to conduct more appraisals, but it would mean that they had more options to choose between.
	<div style="float:right; width: ~~200px~~; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=MasterMint.jpg\|caption='''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', Master of the Imperial Mint\|align=right~~\|width=200~~}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=MasterMint.jpg\|caption='''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', Master of the Imperial Mint\|width=300\|align=right}}</div>
	====Opportunity Knocks Again====		====Opportunity Knocks Again====
	* '''If the Senate increases the Prognosticator's budget then there is an additional opportunity to expand the powers of the Master of the Mint'''		* '''If the Senate increases the Prognosticator's budget then there is an additional opportunity to expand the powers of the Master of the Mint'''
	* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a ~~previos~~ appraisal or opportunity'''		* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
	* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate ~~potion~~'''		* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
	* '''The current Master of the Imperial Mint is Tristan Ramson von Holberg'''		* '''The current Master of the Imperial Mint is ''Tristan Ramson von Holberg'''''
	There is another opportunity here as well. If the office were expanded, there would be more prognosticators ''not'' involved in appraisals as well as more staff available. Taking inspiration from [[#The Mladen Initiative\|Mladen's offer]] regarding fortifications, Gerard has another proposal for the Senate to consider. The [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] could be given the power to commission a kind of "mini appraisal". Rather than addressing a new problem, the office would look at a previous [[opportunity]] offered to the Empire, and assess whether it was still accessible, or under what conditions it might be made so.		There is another opportunity here as well. If the office were expanded, there would be more prognosticators ''not'' involved in appraisals as well as more staff available. Taking inspiration from [[#The Mladen Initiative\|Mladen's offer]] regarding fortifications, Gerard has another proposal for the Senate to consider. The [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] could be given the power to commission a kind of "mini appraisal". Rather than addressing a new problem, the office would look at a previous [[opportunity]] offered to the Empire, and assess whether it was still accessible, or under what conditions it might be made so.