A pillow of winds
"You are right," he said. "His soil is tired. I think this year we will leave the whole field to rest. Too much magic, and not enough attention paid to the cost. Let grass grow, plant nothing, and we will see in the next Spring if he has slept enough to work again."
The two farmers nodded. The elder smiled broadly if a little familiarly. The younger was still in shock that the High Lord was squatting in the dirt beside his grandfather discussing clods of earth. A shadow fell across them. Mukhali looked up, shading his eyes slightly against the sun.
"Father." His daughter Khathimi. Beside her was a man with deeply tanned skin, wearing impractical clothing, and with the blank face of a politician who has just found the High Lord of the Tchemetzi with his hands and knees covered in dirt. "This is Lord Igattio, father. From Nemoria."
Mukhali offered his dirty hand to the Asavean, his face full of a smile that did not touch his heart. "Welcome Lord Igattio," he said politely. The Asavean almost winced as he shook hands, and the Faraden could see him exerting every iota of iron will not to wipe his hand clean on his tunic. The High Lord did not bother to stand up, adjusting his position slightly. He could stay like this, down here, with his hands in the earth, for as long as it took.
"I was showing Lord Igattio the farms," said Khathimi, giving him a special daughter look that told him he was in trouble, and embarrassing her. It was Mukhali's turn to wince - he did not like disappointing any of his children but he was also a man of certain principles and he did not like the look of Lord Igattio.
"We have farms like this at home," said the Asavean. "I was saying to your daughter that it is good to see the god of farmers watches over all fields, wherever they are in the world. Even fields such as these."
"Indeed," said Mukhali thoughtfully. Those who knew him would recognise his tone of voice and change the subject, but the Asavean was oblivious. The visitor attempted what he probably thought was a jolly laugh.
"Of course back home, a patriarch would never be found in the fields like this. There are people who do such things for us. Without meaning offense, Lord Mukhali."
"High Lord," corrected Mukhali mildly. he shared a glance with the two farmers - Batyan and Otayun. The younger was wide eyed, the elder suppressing his own smile. Mukhali glanced back up at the Asavean, again shading his eyes.
"I am sorry?" The Asavean realised he had overstepped and in the manner of a certain kind of diplomat had, mistakenly, decided to brazen it out.
Mukhali stood up. He was not a tall man, not compared to the handsome Asavean, and he was not wearing any of his fine coats. He maintained a placid expression but his eyes were like chips of flint.
"It is High Lord, not Lord. High Lord Mukhali of the Tchemetzi, wizard of the Palace of the Frozen Night who is also called Friend of the Rains, and Greenhand. If we are being formal. There are some other titles but I barely bother to keep track of them."
"I meant no offense," to his credit the Asavean did not stammer, and did not break the High Lord's gaze.
"You said," replied Mukhali. "But I am afraid there is another matter on which I must correct you, honoured guest."
"Father -" Khathimi knew her father's moods, and realised she had miscalculated. Mukhali flashed her a quick look and she fell silent.
"Please," said the Asavean with just a tinge of condescension in his voice. It was clear he felt he had the measure of this peculiar Faraden noble who squatted in the dirt like a peasant.
"It is not your god of farmers who makes our crops grow." Mukhali did not keep the steel from his words. "I do not know them. I have not seen them ploughing, or sowing, or tending the little green shoots or the tall grasses, or breaking their backs harvesting. But I have seen Pride, and Prosperity, and Loyalty out here burning in the hearts of the people who do all those things and when I was young my mother made sure I was there beside them because if I had not been, how would I know when to call the rains and when to let the sun shine, and when to let a field rest even though with my words I could tease one more crop from it? You may show me a High Lord who has someone to do things for them, and I will show you a fool who does not know their business."
Igattio blanched, and glanced at the two farmers. Otayun was staring down at the soil, pale faced, but his grandfather was grinning a little toothily at the Asavean and enjoying his discomfort.
"Thank you for your instruction, High Lord," said the diplomat. "I shall consider your wise words on my walk back to the 'palace'."
He bowed perfunctorily, touching his heart with one hand, and turned away. As he strode back towards the town, Khathimi glowered at her father torn between embarrassment and annoyance.
"Father, did you have to be so rude?" She managed. Mukhali gazed at her impassively. "Of course you did. Lord Igatto is wealthy and influential and you just called him an idiot to his face and disrespected his gods and - "
"Daughter, his gods are worthy of no respect, and it is shameful to pretend that they are."
Kathimi gasped, cheeks colouring. She opened and closed her mouth a few times, and then stormed off after the Asavean. High Lord Mukhali watched her go and shook his head sadly. He loved all his children, but sometimes he wondered if perhaps he ought not to have given his children the run of the palace when they were growing up. Too late now, he thought, and smiled ruefully. Dusting the soil off his hands, he helped old Batyan up with a theatrical degree of creaking and gasping and swearing. He tried to remember his precise relationship to the old man but got lost somewhere around "second cousin."
"Children, eh?" Said Batyan with the cheerful familiarity of the old. The farmer glared after the retreating Lord Igatto, cleared his throat noisily, and spat a was of phlegm on the ground. "That Asavean though. What a prick!"
"Indeed," said High Lord Mukhali. "But now I think we should go down to the river and see how things are going down there. I am in no rush to return to the palace and receive the scolding that is no doubt waiting for me when I get home."
He stared after the retreating pair, imagining Kathimi trying to reassure their visitor that her father was a fool, and did not really speak for the entire family, without actually saying as much. He sighed. "I think I am going to have to retire early, exhausted like this field from my exertions. Because otherwise I might say something I regret..."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.
- Status: Foreigner
- Ports: Caitun
- Ambassador: Ebenezer of the Marches
War in Reinos
- The Court of Five Winds is delighted to learn the Empire has invaded the Lasambrian Hills
- They cannot offer military aid due to their treaty with the Jotun but they are keen to see if there are other ways to support the Empire in its conquest of Reinos
The Court of Five Winds is aware that the Empire has invaded the Lasambrian Hills, and made some headway in Reinos. There is significant excitement about this in some parts of the Faraden nation, especially among the merchant families and those warrior families who do not share the bad opinion of the Empire driven by the Ogudai (who have never forgiven the Imperial Synod for damage sustained by one of their beloved scions when he experienced a true liao vision). Unfortunately, the treaties between Faraden and the Jotun, the same treaties that secure their ability to trade with the Empire, mean that they cannot risk becoming involved militarily in this action for all that they would much rather the hills were controlled by the Empire than the hated barbarians.
The Liege of the Fine Winds has instructed Mistress Karadragha to ask the Ambassador what the Faraden can do to assist the Empire in their invasion of Reinos. They cannot deploy their armies in Reinos, and the spirit of the agreement with the Jotun would prevent them allowing Faraden mercenaries to fight alongside Imperial armies against the western orcs. Is there any trade in goods or services that Faraden could offer that would help Imperial efforts drive the Jotun out of Reinos? There are significant benefits to both nations if the Empire can secure a safe land trade route. From the Faraden point of view, the best way to do this would be to capture Flareizo, Chaveiro, and Cimeira.
If the Ambassador is interested, Mistress Karadragha will arrange a diplomatic envoy to the Empire for the Summer Solstice, assuming the Empire remains engaged in Reinos. Perhaps they can quietly negotiate some traders that would help the Empire without breaking the vital treaty that currently prevents the Jotun from invading Faraden.
The civil service note that one of the few things allowing Faraden to maintain their strained peace with the Jotun is that the western barbarians are focusing their attention on the Empire the treaty the High Liege of the Five Winds relies on will not last long if the Empire achieves peace with the orcs.
Wizards of the West
- The Rod and Shield have an opportunity to create ties with the Muhnkhabat wizardly family
- High Lord Ganzorig Muhnkhabat has proposed an honour guard of battle mages escort a group of the family war wizards to visit Anvil
The Ambassador has informed Mistress Karadragha that the Celestial Arch are keen to make further visits to explore Faraden culture, and to serve as mediators escorting members of the other Conclave orders who wish to visit the nation. In particular, they call out that the Rod and Shield are interested in discussing strategy with the Munkhabat, a wizard family that prides itself on its mastery of the ostentatiously named Arising Flame tradition. There is talk of strategic discussions about war with the Jotun.
The High Lord Ganzorig Muhnkhabat has expressed interest in the matter - and in sending some of the family war-wizards to visit Anvil during the Summer Solstice. They have been quite blunt about the fact the Asaveans have offered military and economic support to the Faraden should they wish to reclaim Menendram and Talemas from their Jotun conquerors. If the Rod and Shield are prepared to discuss practical aid, more immediate aid, then that would be of great interest to the Muhnkhabat and their allies - especially given that the Liege of the Five Winds will not commit to the reconquest of the lost territories, refuses to accept Asavean offers of aid to do so, and currently plans to try and maintain the peace agreement with the Jotun.
The High Lord has sent a message to the Imperial Conclave via Mistress Karadragha. He will arrange a delegation of Muhnkhabat to visit the Empire, as guests of the Rod and Shield, provided that the Conclave order shows appropriate respect. As such, he requests an honour guard of Rod and Shield battle-mages come to Faraden and escort them back through the Lasambrian Hills to the Empire. They warn that the presence of this battle magicians might cause problems with the Jotun, and the Rod and Shield magicians should be prepared to defend themselves. If the conclave order wishes to do this, they will need to find suitable volunteers and secure the approval of the Imperial Conclave by guiding the order (raising a suitable declaration of Concord, which will cost 20 mana from the Conclave font).
Should the Rod and Shield provide the requested honour guard, the Muhnkhabat will come to Anvil to discuss war-magic with the order. They will however expect a certain amount of hospitality, much as the Muhnkhabat provided to the Celestial Arch. Consulting with magicians who visited Faraden last season, the civil service are able to ascertain the following points are likely to be key for any Muhnkhabat visit to Anvil.
- They will expect to observe battle mages engaging in contests of war-magic, and may expect to be invited to participate themselves to test themselves against their hosts
- They will expect to visit the Hall of Worlds, and learn more about it and how the Conclave operates
- They will want to see the Sentinel Gate and learn of its use and history and how it supports the Empire's battles
- They will want to see demonstrations of Imperial war magic - especially how the Rod and Shield wield the principle of empowerment (Summer magic) and the power of the Wind 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 might expect suitable gifts - the Asaveans have certainly provided the Muhnkhabat with magic items as a proof of their commitment to joint operations. The Faraden know these are bribes, but the ceremonies of giving and receiving gifts among the Faraden are much more complex than they are in the Empire - even an obvious bribe will still be appreciated.
If the Rod and Shield choose not to accept the Muhnkhabat proposal, there will be no hard feelings. The war-wizards are well aware the Empire has just invaded Reinos and entirely understand that their prowess is almost certainly needed on the battlefront.
A Gentle Touch
- The Faraden ambassador is concerned about the political repercussions of the Muhnkhabat intentionally causing trouble with the Jotun
- There are also complications related to the perceived support of the Empire for the Muhnkhabat political stance
- She has proposed that the Celestial Arch accompany the Rod and Shield to help smooth over diplomatic problems
Mistress Karadragha passes on High Lord Ganzorig's words, but then immediately adds some concerns of her own. The Muhnkhabat are not allies of High Liege Tchinua Ganbatar. They are very Proud and Courageous - but perhaps too Proud and Courageous. Their intent to visit the Empire is sincere, but their plan to take the route through Reinos is clearly designed to cause trouble with the Jotun, at a time when tensions between the orc nation and Faraden are particularly taut. Some of the Court of the Five Winds will see an invitation to the Muhnkhabat as tacit approval for their stance and that might be problematic in itself.
The Faraden Ambassador has an unofficial proposal of her own. If the Conclave want to go through with this - and the easiest thing to do would be to not participate in the Muhnkhabat stratagem - there are magicians of the Celestial Arch who have spent time in Faraden who the war-wizards might listen to. She is confident that the mediation of the 'Arch would be sufficient to encourage the Muhnkhabat to take a more diplomatic approach, and avoid conflict with the Jotun - perhaps by passing through western Arbonne instead - and downplay Imperial support for their agenda. Is this something the Arch are prepared to assist with? If they are the grandmaster of the order would also need to guide the order, asking its members to help ensure the Rod and Shield and the Muhnkhabat create as little disruption as possible on their way to the Empire. In the same way the Rod and Shield has helped other orders venture into areas of physical and magical danger, the Celestial Arch could help the Rod and Shield navigate political danger.
The civil service have assessed the situation and see three outcomes. The Rod and Shield decline the offer, and the Muhnkhabat accept that and go back to planning their war with the Jotun. The Rod and Shield accept the offer, escort the Muhnkhabat, and deal with the various consequences of looking as if they are supporting the family or making trouble for Faraden with the Jotun. Or the Rod and Shield accept, with the aid of the Celestial Arch, whose intervention will downplay the political cost of meeting with the Muhnkhabat but at the cost of frustrating the plans of High Lord Ganzorig making it much less likely he and his family will be open to any sort of alliance with the Rod and Shield.
Faraden Luxuries
- Caitun no longer provides weltsilver to Imperial traders; instead the port provides a basic fleet with 54 rings in luxury goods
Following Imperial Ambassador Ebenezer's enthusiastic support for the recent changes in Caitun that have seen more Giant Blood Whelks being imported through Meade, there have been further adjustments in the west. After discussion with Faraden traders, Mistress Karadragha has persuaded some of the merchants there to offer more Faraden luxury goods, especially fine food and drink, and rich fabrics. As such, the port no longer provides visiting Imperial traders with weltsilver, and instead provides goods worth 54 rings when resold in the Empire.
Knowing that there is Imperial interest in fine goods, Mistress Karadragha has suggested that she will be further discussing changes to the markets in the port-town, making more Faraden luxuries or unique items available to visiting ship captains.
Yakholme Grange
- There is interest in a trading post in Marcher lands, but Mistress Karadragha wants to see which of Upwold or Mitwold emerges as the most influential cattle market
- The Hakhandra family who make much of their wealth from cattle herding and trading are very interested to secure examples of Marcher cows to establish herds of their own
The Marcher ambassador has proposed re-establishing the old Moonwater Hall as Yakholme Grange, a place where Faraden and Marcher can meet to trade, in Upwold. There's also interest in sharing farming traditions, and discussing ways to improve all breeds of livestock and develop the potential for Prosperity. Following advice from some Faraden merchants visiting the Empire, however, Mistress Karadragha has a counter proposal. There is currently a deal of interest in the potential cattle market being established in either Mitwold or Upwold, and the Faraden merchant families want to see how that is going to shake out before they decide which of the two territories would suit them better. The idea of purchasing Marcher cattle and transporting them back for sale in Faraden is an appealing one, however.
In particular, the Faraden Hakhandra family of merchants are very keen to acquire Marcher cattle and have passed a request via Mistress Karadragha to the ambassador. They wish to acquire cow bonds themselves, sufficient to establish some herds of their own in Faraden. They are aware that there are several breeds available, and they are prepared to purchase up to 16 cattle bonds at a price of 30 rings each (for a total of 24 crowns). However they are very interested in the different characteristics of the Marcher cattle and have a further proposal. There are four primary breeds of Marcher cows (indicated by the image of the cow on the cow bond), and two markets. If the Ambassador can secure 2 cow bonds from each of the four breeds and each of the two cattle markets (that is, each of the cow bonds has a different picture of a cow on it, with a set from each of the two markets) they will pay an additional 6 crowns.
Perhaps more significantly, the Hakhandra are cattle herders as well as traders in yak products. If the Ambassador is able to secure a set of cow wains such as they request, they will enthusiastically support the creation of Yakholme Grange and provide a driving force to ensure a proposal is made from the Faraden end. They reassure the Ambassador that they can take ownership of the cattle and drive them west to Faraden themselves. All Ebenezer needs to do is secure a good mix of cows.
OOC Note: If the Ambassador to Faraden has sixteen cattle bonds in their inventory after the event, then we will assume they are intended for sale to Faraden merchants. If there are fewer than sixteen cattle bonds, then they will be exchanged at a rate of 18 rings for each cattle bond.
Gloaming Dusk
- There is less appetite for Imperial iridescent gloaming than in recent years
- The Tseriyn family can provide the Alder of Meade with 6 or 12 wains of mithril in return for a large amount of gloaming
Mistress Karadragha appreciates the suggestion that the merchant families responsible for supporting the now-defunct Gloaming Road take to the sea, but it will not achieve much. The Faraden do not travel on ships and with good reason - the sea of snow is simply too dangerous for profitable and safe commerce. Any trade would have to take place in Caitun, where the markets are already prospering.
She stresses again that the amount of mithril being traded via the Gloaming Road was comparatively minor - half a dozen wains at most - and that there is no longer the intense need for Iridescent gloaming there as during the Gloaming Blight. Trading mithril for gloaming is less appealing than it might have been - there's no guarantee that such a trade would be any more successful than that supported by the Gloaming Road. Rather, Faraden merchants would prefer to buy gloaming with imperial currency, or trade directly with forest owners.
The Faraden ambassador has spoken with Amulchi Tseriyn, the head of the Tseriyn family who are responsible for supplying the lion's share of the mithril offered to the Alder of Meade - Aubrey Shaw. They report that Faraden appetite for Marcher grain, apples, salted meat, cider and mead is not diminished - indeed the sweet liquorice derivatives and confectionaries produced in Upwold are currently very much in fashion among wealthy Faraden. They're keen to do more business with the Alder, but for the moment they have a single proposal. If the Alder wishes to secure a significant amount of iridescent gloaming, some of the merchants are prepared to deliver the last shipments of mithril they had intended for the Gloaming Road to Caitun, to be transported to Meade along with the usual trade goods. They have 12 wains of mithril in total, and are prepared to sell either the entire shipment for a lump sum of 400 measures of iridescent gloaming, or half that shipment for 200 measures of iridescent gloaming. (OOC Notes: if the Alder of Meade wishes to take advantage of this final offer, they should ensure the gloaming is in their account and email [email protected] before downtime closes).
Azure Chorus
- The Parador of Wind and Flame has been completed at the Azure Chorus
Work on the Parador of Wind and Flame, a structure whose construction was overseen by Erdene Bataguin, has been completed at the Azure Chorus in Kahraman thanks to resources acquired by Mina I Yashum i Riqueza, the Azure Sutannir. Faraden entertainers now make the long journey there to play music, dance, and celebrate alongside Imperial pilgrims. The Ambassador has proposed closer cooperation with the Bataguin might see the Azure Chorus become a true nexus for the two peoples to share their passions and to understand one another better. One of the problems Mistress Karadragha identifies is that the journey east is not without risks, requiring as it does the Faraden to pass through Reinos and pay significant tolls to the Lasambrian Jotun. Perhaps once Reinos is no longer under the control of the barbaric Jotun, there might be further opportunities to build up the Azure Chorus.
With the completion of the Parador, the Azure Sutannir has been cemented in the minds of the Faraden, and to a degree the Freeborn, as someone who represents the spirit of cooperation between the two nations. In conflict between the priests of the Five Flames and the Way, the Azure Sutannir's voice will be given additional weight by the Faraden, particularly if they are taking a position of ensuring good faith, recognising the differences and similarities between the two cultures, and resisting calls to precipitous action.
Further To Your Last Missive
- The Faraden remain interested in establishing a grand market enclave in Holberg
- They seek guidance from the Holberg chamber of commerce as to which goods to focus their trade on
Holberg Chamber of Commerce |
Nadia Borodina di Sarvos |
Professor Bartolomau Vinnemakker von Holberg |
Mathias Kaiser |
Tristan Ramson von Holberg |
Vargon Kaiser |
Magdalena Teyhard von Holberg |
Claus Friedrich von Holberg |
Chervorny Dova |
Francois D'Patissier |
Grimm Hennerland |
Anna Kirsch |
Robert Von Holberg, Of the Temple of the Nine Fingers |
Will Witherleigh |
Lula Kleist von Ennerlund |
Adolphus von Holberg |
Harland Edgar Quinn |
Jovian |
Otmar van Holberg |
Elke van Holberg |
Cees Van Holberg |
Dael Adelaar von Holberg |
Kanute Adelaar van Holberg |
Three Hands |
Bernhard Kleist von Ennerlund |
Pascaut |
Diego |
Faixa Rua |
Marricus |
Esme Beatrix de Holberg |
Paul Schatzgraber Von Holberg |
Dwalek Canorem |
Recent discussions have built on an earlier discussion around a Faraden trading enclave in the greatest city in the Empire. Ambassador Ebenezer and Mistress Karadragha have spoken on the matter, with advice from the citizens of Holberg themselves. With the grand highways of the Blood Red Roads at their disposal, a Faraden caravan entering the Empire in the west and travelling all the way to the eastern borders and back would certainly provide ample opportunities for trade with the League, and with the Marches, Wintermark, and Highguard along the way. Pro-Imperial trading families by all accounts remain quite excited about this possibility.
The plans involve the establishment of Firewind Market in the upper city where Faraden merchants would deal with their peers in the League, and an enclave established in the more pastoral surroundings of the lower city for caravans to relax, regroup, and prepare for their return journey to the west. The uplifting parkland of Holmauer is very appealing to the Faraden, many of whom are not entirely comfortable in massive cities.
it is taking a little while for the scheme to reach the next level - a concrete proposal from the Faraden as to what would need to be done - partly because of very legitimate concerns expressed by the Holberg Chamber of Commerce.
Good for Goods
- The Chamber of Commerce in Holberg has requested more information about the goods the Faraden have to trade
- Mistress Karadragha needs a decision from the Chamber of Commerce as the first step towards establishing the kind of "Faraden Quarter" that is being proposed
Mistress Karadragha is a little nonplussed by concerns that the Holberg Chamber of Commerce did not feel it had enough information to decide what kind of goods the citizens of the city would be interested in seeing Faraden merchants import. Sadly, she would need to do significant work at the Faraden end of this trade route to ensure that there are enough merchants interested in traversing the Lasambrian Hills. To make that worthwhile she has to be able to reassure them that there will be a market for the goods they transport. Mistress Karadragha cannot take this forward without knowing which one of the available options the Holberg Chamber of Commerce would like to pursue,
Once she knows what option interests Holberg the most, then she can do all the relevant work to assess interest and work with merchants and with the Imperial civil service to assess costs. She is committed to securing the "best" deal possible for everyone involved - both the Faraden merchants and the League businessfolk. But without the guidance of the Chamber of Commerce, she can't begin the process of putting the final touches to the proposal for the enclave.
To reiterate there are four potential outcomes, based on what Mistress Karadragha has proposed.
- Cloth: The Faraden love to make beautiful and brightly dyed clothing. As demonstrated by recent discussions with the Blue Silk Scarves, they also enjoy weaving magic into the fine garb they create. Mundane fabrics and outfits sold to the discerning traders of Holberg would produce a reasonable profit for the Faraden, and in return Holberg would gain access to the magical garb Faraden artisans can provide - not only clothing suitable for wizards but also coats and sashes that provide some benefits similar to light armour such as improved endurance. If the Chamber of Commerce feels that they would benefit most from access to magical clothing, they should select "cloth".
- Spice: The Giant Blood Whelk is only an example of the luxurious food and drink the Faraden appreciate - and they do not only deal in victuals produced in their own nation. As traders, they also have access to gourmet goods from other countries including the Iron Confederacy and other lands the Faraden deal with. The Faraden merchants would make a profit from selling provender and liquor, but they would also import potions and consumable goods of different kinds to the Holberg market. While the Faraden do not seem to have much in the way of potion lore that the Empire does not already know, they have access to consumables with unique properties - as evidenced by the Whelks. If the Chamber of Commerce thinks they would benefit most from a source of such consumables, whether they be medicinal in nature, substances that strengthen the body and spirit, or even recreational, they should pick "spice".
- Iron: Metals of all kinds are found in the hills and western mountains of Faraden, especially orichalcum and weltsilver, but also mithril and ilium. They also have plenty of tempest jade, green iron, and even white granite. Obviously the Empire has its own sources of all these materials, but the question Mistress Karadragha is asking is whether Holberg feels it has sufficient access to such things. If the Chamber of Commerce wants to straightforwardly secure access to Faraden metals, they should select Iron
- None of the Above: The fourth choice is, of course, to not establish as "Faraden quarter" in Holberg. Bernhard Kleist and Magdalena Teyhard have pointed out some of the challenges the enclave might present, and Mistress Karadragha is still committed to achieving its creation, but if Holberg is not in a position to make a decision as to the kinds of goods it would like to import, then the Faraden ambassador will return to the drawing board. She is also keen to point out that Holberg can withdraw at any point - if they do not like the proposal the Court of Five Winds puts forward there is still potentially room for negotiation. She is well aware what a significant act of trust this is, and how much risk is involved. The Faraden are merchants - they will understand if Holberg pulls out at any point because the returns don't look viable or the problems are insurmountable.
In each case the expectation would be that the Faraden would sell their goods for Imperial coin, which would in turn be used to purchase trade goods to take back home. This is the same model Mistress Karadragha understand the Empire uses in its own foreign trade, albeit without the requirement for boats.
If the Chamber of Commerce chooses which goods appeals most, then Mistress Karadragha can put forward proposals, secure commitments from merchant families, and determine what facilities are likely to be needed. Without that guidance from the Chamber of Commerce the project cannot move forward effectively.
Orcs and False Flames
- Mistress Karadragha has addressed some specific concerns raised by the citizens of Holberg around orcs and religion
The Chamber of Commerce has made Mistress Karadragha aware of certain potential problems, and the Faraden ambassador is sincerely grateful. She reassures her Holberg correspondents that they need not worry on the behalf of the Sand Fishers. Few Faraden have much experience dealing with orcs other than the Jotun, but they are a cosmopolitan people. She does not anticipate any problems for merchants prepared to travel to the Empire - where it is known that there are orcs that stand as equals to the humans in all things. Anyone whose outdated prejudices mean they do not wish to deal with orcs don't want to visit the Empire. Mistress Karadragha is not specifically looking to deal with these "Sand Fishers" at this time - but if they visit Holberg they'll receive the same welcome as any Imperial Orcs will as long as the Holberg folk continue to welcome them.
The matter of the Holberg Gate is a little more delicate. A powerful aura of a False Flame is not something many Faraden would wish to be exposed to on a regular basis. But, forewarned is forearmed. Mistress Karadragha can instruct her agents to secure ground that allows Faraden merchants to use other methods of entering the city than passing through the great gate. It will then be at their discretion if they wish to risk corruption with "wisdom".
The Bishops of the League support the establishment in Holberg of a trading enclave with the Faraden, contingent upon the creation of an Imperial title with the responsibility to oversee the enclave and resolve any cultural misunderstandings. This enclave would not be extra-territorial and would remain subject to all parts of Imperial law both secular and religious.
Kaspar Yakovitch von Holberg, League Assembly, Winter Equinox 386YE, Vote: 254-0With regard to the third issue, Mistress Karadragha is a little concerned. As she understands it, the judgement raised by Kaspar Yakovitch von Holberg and endorsed by the League assembly calls for an individual to be authorised to serve as a liaison between Faraden and the Empire - which is what everyone in the Court of Five Winds expects. Traditionally someone would be chosen by their hosts would would be the first port of call for problems or opportunities, and in return receive the first pick of the best goods. Mistress Karadragha assumes that other merchants and traders in Holberg would benefit from general trade with the Faraden perhaps in the form of a great work (although she understands that Holberg is one of the most sophisticated cities in the world, so what form this would take she cannot be sure until the proposal is further along). Otmar van Holberg has suggested that the city might be more interested in selling forest measures to the Faraden rather than buying their cargos, but that is a very different situation. The markets for ambergelt, beggar's lye and the rest are very volatile and the amounts needed fluctuate greatly. This is why most Faraden merchants prefer to deal in Imperial currency than the barter system.
There's no suggestion the trading enclave would be "extra-territorial" as that would raise an entire additional raft of complicated diplomatic issues. When visiting the Empire, Faraden would expect to abide by Imperial Law.
The only issue Mistress Karadragha can see is that part of the enclave would be, as she said last season, the establishment of a Hall of Five Flames - a shrine where devout Faraden travellers can meditate on the "five flames" - Courage, Pride, Loyalty, Prosperity, and Justice. Again, there is no particular intention that this would be a place for preaching the Faraden faith, but there would absolutely be a few Faraden priests in resident - representatives of some of the priest families who would offer spiritual support to their far-from-home countryfolk. That would include spiritual guidance, blessings where appropriate, conducting various ceremonies that offer comfort to the Faraden, and offering advice on how to deal with exposure to the "false flames" the Imperial faith relies on. As long as Imperial citizens respect the privacy of the Faraden and don't actively seek them out, there should be no repeat of any earlier unpleasantness. It's not in the nature of Faraden priests to turn away those who want to learn about their faith, any more than it is for Imperial priests, but they're not interested in actively seeking converts, for the most part.
If that is going to be a problem, then the Chamber of Commerce should say so now, and then both parties can withdraw before this discussion goes any further. But a small temple dedicated to the Faraden flames in Holmauer is a deal-breaker for the merchant families. The Ambassador has suggested that Faraden priests and legal scholars could be part of a proposed body that would ensure fair arbitration or governance of any disputes in the market quarter. Mistress Karadragha is not opposed to this. As long as the League Bishops are acting in good faith, the priests of the Hall of Five Flames would assist any Faraden accused of a crime, and work with the local authorities to achieve an equitable and just outcome.
A Matter Of Faith
- A group of Faraden Priests seek help from the Empire to keep Asavea from overtaking their culture.
- A militant sect are offering assistance in fanning the flames of rebellion in the Asavean Archipelago.
Since the ascension of Tchinua Ganbatar to the position of Liege of the Five Winds, Faraden has broadly taken a pro-Imperial stance in international politics. Religious differences have led to some tensions, but pragmatism has by and large triumphed over dogmatism on both sides. The horizon is not without clouds, however. The Asavean Archipelago, relentless enemies of the Empire since the formation of the Liberty Pact and the burning of Chalonsio, have been engaged in a charm offensive in Faraden, seeking to gain one more ally in the Empire's back yard alongside the opportunistic Grendel. Some are swayed by the gifts of the Plenum, but most treat the foreigners with nothing more than wary politeness. As Winter changes into Spring, however, word reaches the Empire that some wish to take a significantly firmer stance.
The Faraden follow what they refer to as the Five Flames, the virtues of Courage, Loyalty, Pride, Prosperity, and Justice. Imperial missionaries have sometimes tried to bring Faraden to the Way of Virtue over the years, but as of yet these results have had no widespread success. Faraden missionaries have in turn sometimes attempted to bring the light of the Five Flames to the Empire, with equally poor results. As such, there is some confusion when a coalition of priests from several major families make a discreet approach to the Imperial embassy.
They report that the Asavean charm offensive risks going too far. In an attempt to establish points of commonality with their hosts, the Asaveans have begun claiming that the Five Flames are similar to the faces of five of their gods. It is clear that this group of priests are deeply conservative. The Faraden are as Proud as any Imperial citizen, and this attempt to proselytise a foreign religion on their shores goes too far. These priests would like to show them the consequences of their arrogance. They will not bring them violence, nobody seeks a blood feud, but they seek help from the Empire to show the Plenum that their faith is sacrosanct.
The offer the priests bring is one of cooperation. They understand that the Empire may differ from them on the virtues of Ambition, Justice, Vigilance and Wisdom, but that leaves four true virtues on which everyone can agree. As such, they are issuing an invitation to Imperial priests from the assemblies of Courage, Loyalty, Pride and Prosperity to come to Faraden and preach together, hand in hand. There will be no talk of the Imperial doctrines, such a thing would be a grave insult, but simply by speaking on the Virtues together they can bolster the spirits of the people of Faraden against the influence of the Asaveans.
Fanning the Flames
- The Assemblies of Courage, Loyalty, Pride and Prosperity can pass statements of principle urging Imperial Priests to support Faraden.
- Any assembly that passes an appropriate statement of principle will have an option to preach in Faraden after the Spring Equinox.
- If 40 congregations in total support this project, the Faraden faith will be bolstered against foreign influence.
- Any congregation that takes this option will gain no liao.
The Assemblies of Courage, Loyalty, Pride and Prosperity can choose to pass a statement of principle urging Imperial priests to travel to Faraden to preach that Virtue. Any assembly that passes an appropriately worded statement will create an opportunity for Imperial priests to preach that Virtue in Faraden, alongside the priests of Faraden, to help bolster their faith.
Preaching actions are used to define which Virtue assembly a Synod member is part of. These four potential actions are each tied to a specific virtue - The Fan the Flames of {Virtue} in Faraden options change your assembly to the relevant virtue. It is very important to be aware of this effect if you have a title that requires you to be a member of a specific assembly! Characters are automatically removed from titles that they no longer qualify for - so a Cardinal or Gatekeeper who uses a preach action that changes their assembly will lose their position. It's also important to be aware that changing to a different assembly means taking a different preaching action in the downtime following the next event - if you choose a Vigilance preaching option you will be part of the Vigilance Assembly for the next event you attend.
Following the Spring Equinox, any congregation will be able to select from additional preaching options - Fan the Flames of {Virtue} in Faraden, one for each assembly that supports the action. Any priest who selects this option will either participate in or indirectly support the mission to reinforce the supremacy of the Virtues in Faraden, working closely with Faraden's own priests.
Faraden has almost no domestic liao supply, mostly buying from Imperial merchants. As such, any priest with the ability to perform liao ceremonies will find themselves much in demand, as few Faraden priests have been trained in using what is to them a rare substance. However, priests without these abilities will still be welcomed with open arms, and invited to address religious gatherings, participate in discussions around the meaning and practice of the virtues, and answer questions about how the virtues are practised in different cultures. Even priests who are not comfortable with public speaking can assist by providing organisational support to their colleagues.
Any congregation that participates in the Fan the Flames in Faraden project will receive no liao at the Summer Solstice. The liao will be assumed to have been used to create auras, donated to other priests doing the same, or sold so that the proceeds can be used to fund people's expenses. The congregations will still provide the standard number of votes, and will still receive any votes or liao provided by great works, Imperial titles, or enchantments.
If at least 40 congregations support this action, regardless of which of the invited assemblies contribute, then the spirits of the people of Faraden will be bolstered against outside interference. The attempts of the Asaveans to build a bridge with that of the Five Flames will be stifled before they can truly begin. This action will bolster some of the most conservative elements in Faraden society, helping to build a bulwark against the influence of the Asaveans (or indeed of any outside faction). It won't stop the political and economic overtures that the Asaveans are making but it will stop people engaging with their priests, impeding their ability to engage one of the Empire's closest neighbours.
This will, however, be a double-edged sword. It is the hard-line religious elements in Faraden that will be bolstered by this. Those groups will be positively inclined towards the Empire for the aid they have received, but that will oppose any attempt by the Empire to spread their version of the Way here, just as they have done with the Asaveans, only now from a stronger position. Faraden will become noticeably more difficult for anyone to proselytise, not just the Asaveans.
If fewer that 40 congregations support the project, then the priests of the Empire will simply become one of a number of voices in an ongoing public debate about religion and foreign policy in Faraden. Some people will listen, some will not, and the Asaveans will continue their project to deepen their influence into Faraden society.
A Just World
- A small sect of militant Faraden wish to encourage the downtrodden of Asavea to rise against the ones who have wronged them
- They seek the assistance of the Freeborn National Assembly in gaining passage to Asavea
- They will draw on the false virtue of Vengeance to accomplish their aims
- Representatives of the Ember Blossoms intend to be at the Hub at 10:00 on Saturday to speak with any Freeborn priests who are interested in their offer
Last summit, the Loyalty Assembly voted to incite a revolution against the Asavean Plenum, encouraging pilgrims of Loyalty to find those in the Archipelago whose heart commands them to bring down their oppressors. The mandate has only just passed, and the project has only just begun, yet assistance is already being offered from a very unexpected party. A Faraden sect called the Ember Blossoms has reached out to the Empire, declaring their desire to assist with bringing Justice to the oppressed of the world, and Asavea in particular. A fine goal... it is the heavy emphasis on the word 'Justice' that is causing hesitation.
The Imperial embassy in Faraden has done some preliminary research. The Ember Blossoms are something of a paradox, a group that is at once very public and very secretive. Apparently formed from the lowest strata of Faraden society, they claim to stand against those in power who would use their station to harm and disrespect those they consider beneath them. With many positions of authority claimed by the largest and most influential families, the poorest people can find their attempts to access Justice stymied. When that happens, the Ember Blossoms step in to send a message. Occasional attempts have been made to stamp them out, but none have succeeded, and most only added to their mystique. The Ember Blossoms are quiet legends among the downtrodden, vigilantes that the Liege of the Five Winds has yet to eradicate. And now they want to work with the Empire.
The sheer scale of oppression that is necessary for Asavean society to function is staggering, and the Ember Blossoms would love nothing more than to give the enslaved and downtrodden there the means to cast down the ones who have abused them. The problem is that they currently have no way of securing passage there. Faraden has no naval tradition - indeed, many Faraden have a superstitious dread of the sea that leaves them uncomfortable even being within sight of the coast. As such, if the Ember Blossoms are to be part of the Empire's revolution, they will need to secure transport. They have heard of the cunning of the Freeborn and their daring adventures smuggling missionaries to Asavea. All they ask is for the chance to participate in this great undertaking.
There are, to put it mildly, potential issues with this plan. There is little doubt that the Ember Blossoms could provide valuable assistance - they have some experience of covert action and of inciting others to rise against their oppressors. But they would do this by spreading the malign spiritual presence of Vengeance. While this would be highly effective at stirring up the will to resist the Plenum, it would not make fertile ground for the spreading of the Way of Virtue - at least, not while the Doctrine of Seven remains intact.
Some Asavean rebels inspired by the Ember Blossoms might well embrace the virtues, but it is likely that they would incline towards the Five Flames of Faraden rather than the Imperial seven. Even if the Freeborn decide that they are willing to accept this, the Empire's other great allies in inciting a rebellion in Asavea, the Sumaah Republic, would be furious at the deliberate spreading of heretical notions. Either the Empire would have to accept that aggravating their allies would be worth it to further the cause of liberation, or else ensure that they never, ever find out.
This problem also has political ramifications. The Liege of the Five Winds has welcomed Asavean ships in their ports, and their merchants are trading with them. There are clearly religious differences, but even if the Empire does help the Faraden priests rebuff their religious overtures, it won't stop the Faraden merchants trading with the Asaveans, nor their political leaders dining with them. But shipping a boat-load of Vengeance fanatics to Asavea might. If the Asaveans catch them - and that possibility can not be ruled out - then they will be as furious with the Faraden as they currently are with the Empire. That will surely put an end to any diplomatic outreach, which could be considered a huge win for the Empire. The risk there is that if the Liege of the Five Winds discovers that it was the Empire who helped the Blossoms reach Asavea, and destroyed the delicate balancing act they are currently engaged in to protect their nation from the two great powers, then they will be furious with the Empire in turn.
Representatives of the Ember Blossoms intend to visit Anvil at the coming summit. They will make their way to the Hub at 10:00 on Saturday, where they hope to meet with any Freeborn priests who are interested in speaking with them.
Further Reading
Faraden Winds
- A pillow of winds - 387YE Spring wind of fortune regarding Faraden diplomacy
- All the wind - 386YE Winter wind of fortune regarding Faraden diplomacy
- Where five winds meet - 386YE Autumn Wind of Fortune regarding Faraden diplomacy
- Winds and flames - 386YE Summer Wind of Fortune regarding Faraden diplomacy
Faraden Related Titles
Click Expand to see a summary of various pages related to Faraden.