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[Janissary Diocletes,]

Janissary Diocletes,

There is nothing wrong with compassion. Samton was indeed moved by the woman's speech, signed her petition, gifted her dinar, and more. Now that he is Sergeant I have no doubt he will endeavor to follow through on his word.

Your request is one I shall weigh, but I would also encourage you to take pause. You've asked for a request, and insulted me, in the same sentence. That is a very unorthodox tactic in one seeking to get something.

That we of the seat of Legate, purposely influence and infringe "Pressure" upon one of the Accord Signatories, for a public apology for an event that occurred months ago and now would only be seen as some vague cynical gesture of softening the image of the Astronomers.

I ask you take this teachable moment to weigh what your duty entails, and what exactly you are asking. You, a Janissary of the Sultan's forth, who has many patrols to attend and many duties to consider. Taking the time away from such duties to write a letter, containing a privately kept file of your Garrison. To stoke internal conflict with the Accord. To the Rulers of this Settlement who have been named by the Sultan to keep peace between the Accord signatories..

I shall overlook the breach and not report your misstep in sending the file to us, to your superiors.

For that is the kind of leader I am, first and foremost.

A teacher.

Honored Water Bearer Gausim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat

[Jerrod Felch]

Jerrod Felch,

To be a "Fourth Accord Signatory" you would firstly have to accept the Sultanate, above a litany of other practices of which your dearest friend Lucia certainly won't. Second, to sit as "Voice of The Voiceless", such a title would require you take up a voice and raise a sum of 10,000 dinar to be titled upon the Stele, of which considering you have had months to secure a voice - an unlikely prospect.

I find it curious though you endeavor to seek such legitimacy, time and again, absent of every single step that would actually see you legitimized.

There sits not Shrine of Kula within the city despite many spots of flowers tended where life flourishes, absent any to tend such a garden.

Your visits to the Mound have become less than zero, choosing I am told to favor gutter-fights and in-fighting with your ganganeers over true building. Though it is heartening to hear you have seemingly regained from your miss-steps. Yet for all the espousal of the Wheel comes scant a whisper about the numerous Modini who from time to time head to the Creep.

The howls for "Candles lit in the gutters" despite the fact that Wroth holds a shrine within our own Sultan's Garrison to see justice fair and done.

I could go on, but you begin to see the point. Your Ad-Hoc Assembly of "Voiced and Voiceless to meet with those who would Speak for the Creep" is not ignoble but it is widely misguided. Many Voiced have witnessed your calls to the Sagebrush after the burning of their home. Many of the Voiced have witnessed your calls for violence, ceaseless and unerring and savage.

Your welcoming of brigand, bandit, traitor, and more.

You have refused society.

That is, ultimately, your choosing.

However you may not then attempt to claim some semblance of representation. The Creep offers no boons to this Settlement, and considering the amount of Necromancers and more that have flourished - though indeed, killed when it became... I do not know, convenient, I suppose? And no more of use to your cadre.

What assurances can be offered, considering some of the most savage and violent men and women of the city seek to open a refuge of "Communication and Peace" in the very basement of blessed mother B'aara's almhouse?

What works are undertaken to indeed, ensure piety and worthiness among those who walk the creep?

What efforts are foregone to see that the Voiced, those who embrace Society, ought even consider such a treating with your band of openly and pleasingly declared killers, brutalists, and more?

Until you may answer these questions, you may consider them my first comments and issue of achievable solutions.

But considering you opened your letter with a threat I find that a bleak prospect.

Honored Waterbearer Guasim Al-Marain
Of the Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat

[Hysairian Economic Theory]

Hysairian Economic Theory
Gausim al-Marain

While the woman may have been considered far and wide to be a bitter, spiteful, and ultimately murderous creature there is one matter in which she cannot be disputed. Her economic theories on Ephia's Well have proven immaculate - be it the instance of a sun dial right twice a day, or a degree of wisdom borne from the Protector.

Introduction: The First Economic age

A threshold has been reached in the civilization of the Economy of Ephia's Well which has often gone unconsidered. I shall be using this text to attempt to highlight her theories and - with some insights beyond her understanding, advocate for a path forward.
 
Removing the woman from the theory the barest principle is such: Sustainable growth cannot be borne of a Salvage-driven economy. As we have seen and heard over the last eleven years a great many have made their fortunes in water, in hard goods, in tangible proceeds.

Within the last two years time though has come a new phenomenon - the rush of the Awoken, the arrival of the Caravans, the collapse of Il Modo, and more. It has lead to a push upon our economic structures which has been highlighted in various instances of micro and macroeconomic theory. For a time it lead to a boom of merchant success, quick flipping of product, purchasing salvage from the Gutters, from the Monster-Hunter, from the Boardworker. These goods were then catalogued, tallied, advertised, and resold.

Many of the Early Voiced of the awoken, so too the Criminals, and more all found their fortunes in these short-market tradings.

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Example 1: The Accorded Veteran

You strike out into Ephia's well and you are subjected to piecemeal work. Errand for the scribes, for the Accord, the Leagues.

A few days pass, Delving into the Gutters. Violence increases, you find yourself beset by monsters below, the fell ratkin, the machines, you arm yourself with what you can muster from a merchant.

A few more days pass, you graduate to the Upper Board. You find yourself better supply, better equipment, you find yourself greater damagem you arm yourself with your new found fortune to secure a Merchant's boons.

A few more days pass, you reach the zenith of the mercenary trade. The highest life, from the lowest board. You are known as your bellows muster dozens eagerly waving hand hoping to be selected by your elite cadre. You secure fullplate mail, arms, armors into the thousands, you are wealthy, you are equipped, you are ready for more.

A few more days pass. You find yourself a tempting offer. Trade your reputation for legitimacy in the eyes of the State, an Accorded recruit able to find your way into the ranks of the Voiced, of the Assembly, of aspiring for place among the

Now ask me this.

What use has a Nadiri for magical tunic? And you begin to see some of her wisdom.

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Example 2: The Full Chest

A concurrent action may be attested to the proliferation of Palmwood and other expansions of the tradecraft. The pursuit of the Merchant lifestyle is a harrowing one, so beleaguered, so burdened by ware and having to choose the option of something that sells swiftly and is light or holding onto a stockpile for a grande deal of Dinar.

What began by the tandem Stonefolk of Sol Auk and Bruk Tok, who took parallel but differing paths on this matter lends to light the second dilemma raised by Ariel's economic theory. When one has such unfettered access to storage space, when one has such unbridled investment in simply cargo chests and treasure-crates, the market becomes saturated.

When the likes of those who live in the Krak de Rose fill four, five chests with surplus adventuring gear what need have they for consignment.

When the likes of one who lives in the Tablet, a Voiced who keeps company of many voiced, fills their mud-hut with enough to act as a Warehouse, what rush is there to move equipment?

Absent the need for mastery the amateur sabotage the artisan trade. No longer a matter of cutting artful deal with the accord to sell on consignment, no more traveling to far and distant lands in the cutting of new trade deal for new and unseen riches and prize to bring back to Ephia to tempt the market.

The Refugees, learning from the Stonefolk, simply become junk peddlers.

Sitting upon piles of aspect equipment, rusted metal, and scavenged trash.

And it is a wonder why none partake of the Souk.

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 The Second Economic Age - Hysarianism

Much like the curated world of the finest artisan sculptures and paintings, when a flooding occurs the artisan adapts. The Master's Studio for carving stone gives way to the illustrious Gallery - museum and showcase of the artisan's craft in new and differing light allow a number of patrons to make of rarest purchase or if they are truly wealthy, to bestow patronage upon the artist.

In her adaptation of the Stonefolk duo's.... barest principles - the child like "Write down what you want and I can get you it" and the equally child like "I have a pile of boxes put stuff in it" - she has served as alchemic catalyst for the second economic age of Ephia's Well.

Where as her predecessors and others such as Qari of the Gold League have offered bespoke merchandise to illustrious clientele in search of aspectral rings or more to unlock the unique magics within, she took to elevate such even higher.

Acquisitions of the highest order, eliminating the search for equipment and providing not simply a pile of scavenged junk from the wasteland but the service of operating as eyes, ears, and hands in the marketplace on behalf of wealthy client.

One does not even need a Warehouse when your focus is on procuring three custom pieces to make your sales for two weeks time. Even less so when you are able as Ariel did for a short while to recruit and enlist lesser curators to your company effort.

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The Merchant Zahra

As these acquisition efforts continue it's clear there is traction to be had. While the occasional refugee has come forward howling where have all the merchants of the Souk gone, it can be seen plain in the portents of the marketplace.

The likes of good Faisal al-Karim, suffering unduly under such burdensome equipment he cannot even give away to a newcomer without them asking for a quarter price.

Zahra though, fair and true, in her merchant efforts have brought a bridged gap. She has taken the old methods of consignment to secure the likes of the Torchbearers, the Janissary, and other surplus equipment.

So too though has she adopted the practice of acquisitions - seeking mercenaries, professional soldiers, treasure hunters, and more to her side in a refined and quantifiably and measurable improvement over Hysarian Economic Theory.

It is not unexpected of course that one of the former servants of the Sixth Legion is well familiar with the trends and tactics employed to find unconventional profit.

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Conclusion: In search of The Third Age

In conclusion the future is a simple one -

Ephia's Well cannot survive as it is. It simply cannot. For even as much headway as Zahra makes there is a capacity reached by Hysairian Economics. This Second Age, while it adapts and grows, cannot be the final stage of Ephia's economic future.

For even if one offers to the wealthiest of clientele a small army of curators and subjected scavengers to the dangers of the waste - quality over quantity is not in any circumstance a long term business model. It is a short sided effort - of which allowed Ariel to survive and finance numerous political campaign efforts, but it was not enough to break the Pyramid, or the Banks, or even La Banda Rossa as she was forced into debt.

The Souk will run fallow and as more adopt to the Hysairian Economic Theory as Zahra has they shall make headway, be able to raise company, and be able to improve. But at the fundamental core-

What use has Apothar Cosine for equipment? What use has a Janissary?

No. It is goods, it is services, it is manufacturing.

A true and dedicated output of economic engineering must be undertaken if Ephia's Well is to survive.

Companies must move beyond scavenging for barest dinar for voice and resource.

They must move beyond curation of bespoke prizes for wealthy client in pursuit of further purse.

They must build. Make. Grow. Else we will merely langusih. This - ultimately, the lesson of Ariel Hysair.

If we wish to grow we must be prepared to invest. Or court Investor.

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[The Blasphemy of the Dome]

The Blasphemy of the Dome
Gausim al-Marain

I do not speak of this topic lightly. As Honored Water Bearer of the Great Temple of Baz'eel I have for many years been tutored in the Orthodoxy and had the privilege of seeing tutors of the Royal Family taught in kind. I have seen the heights of the Ecstatic Terrace long before it sat over Ephia, I have walked my home beneath the sacred sanctum of the Epicrasis, I have known Ring Runner from before the Fall, I have known the Wheel. And I have known the Dome.

The Beginning

My arrival to Ephia's Well brought with it staunch realization of what the Settlement has permitted. In reading the public board next to the law of the land - saw I plain written by the hand of a woman named Sofia a plea for research and books upon the Sages. My first thought was Scholar, my first thought was perhaps a Refugee not knowing better.

This changed when I saw her name upon the Voiced Registry, after I was gifted my tribute by the Ephian Government.

This changed when I saw her name upon the League of Purple registry.

This changed when I saw her compatriot, Ottavio, upon the League of Gold registry.

This changed when I saw her compatriot, Cassella, upon the League of White registry.

That during an Election for Candidate to Ephia's Well, it was told to me be Paladin of Warad. That Ricario Cassella was of the Dome, sworn of Sage, though not "A pious man". That there was hope he may be swayed to the Wheel.

It was confirmed that at the time, Voiced Akna, did not know.

It was confirmed that at the time, Legate Domnhall, said unto me "I hadn't even thought of that".

The Dome of Man. The roots of its blasphemy had spread far and wide.

I reported this matter to the Janissary Conrad Fellstar.

He bade I also report this to the Astronomers, To the Balladeers, to hear their thoughts.

And so I did.

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The Investigation

In speaking with the Apothar Cosine, his words resonated plain. That this an affront to Izdu.

In speaking with the Balladeer Alain, his words resonated firm. That he had long confronted Sofia over her blasphemy, that she had rebuked him, that she had made many spurious claims. Moreso that he was prepared to bury his feud with Janissary Fellstar to see this matter addressed. That he was shocked that an Apothar would so care.

In the coming days we would speak, we would meet, the trio weighing their options. So to though did I begin to speak with others of the Settlement. To learn their thoughts, to hear their wisdom. From some cautioned care, some bade firmness, some bade mercy, some bade wroth.

It was confirmed that indeed, Recluta Ottavio was Clergy of the Dome. That Sofia was Clergy of the Dome. That both had taken place in the Leagues. That both were Voiced Citizens. So too it was confirmed that now Legate Cassella was a servitor of the Dome.  When I asked him plain within the Office of the Second Seat.

Those of the Accord were spoken with. Our options weighed. Some warned against martyrdom, Some warned against repercussion.

Ultimately was chosen a path of Mercy.

A warning given, a week to find rebaptism.

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The Wroth and the Dome

Almost immediately the response was as anticipated. The White League speaking in loosest asterbadian principle that these actions unacceptable. Apothar Cosine Mevura and Clubman Jordan Clearcreek descending into a shouting match in the street. Her claims of the Dome coexisting alongside the Wheel highlighted further as the Apothar declared that her Small God was dead and she should seek the Wheel.

This seemed to send her more infuriated.

More and further did the White League take to rally. From some the notion that Blasphemy a minorest nuisance compared to the majesty of the Wheel. From others that the notion of Blasphemy not blasphemy at all, but an expression of an asterbadian freedom, of peoples, of cultures.

This Asterbadian sentiment would skew the ad-hoc "Convocation of the Wheel". It would be declared by a small portion of faithful, of a small portion of the wheel, that their decision would by "One Spoke, One Vote" declare whom would sit as Grand Mufti. A decision abdicated from Legates Domnhall and Cassella, to be allowing of asterbadian principle those of the Clergy to accept who would sit as Grand Mufti.

I opposed the notion of "Vote" deciding who would lead the Wheel, for in the orthodox teachings there is no asterbadian sentiment. My name would be raised by the Balladeer Aurelio of B'aara, knight in service, against my protest. We would be the only two options, and The Wroth would win out. Ariel of Agaslakku, Jerrod of Kula, Alain of the Balladeers, and more would rejoice.

And Radislav of Wroth would rise, empowered by the newly Wrothan Domnhall Guivarch.

His declarations and actions swift. As Sofia of the Dome attempted her readings of the Sage Santina during the Vagrancy Law conflict he would grow incensed. As Sofia of the Dome attempted her readings of the Sage Santina before the Holy Piglrim, he would grow beyond to Wroth. He would chase her with a strip of shoe leather.

This routine became commonplace for days, she would read, Jordan Clearcreek and others would attend her, Radislav and others would spite her.

In hopes of seeing peace restored and mercy delivered was Sofia sought in Compromise.

We spoke for hours upon the Pyramid, differing ideas, differing notions. Though the orthodox practices were not adhered in Ephia the Mother's mercy was known. And so it was extended. Her concerns lay not for herself but int he fate of the Laymen of the Dome of which she had taken to care for.

Though it was drastic, in time we would find a compromise.

It would be taken to the Legate Cassella.

He would refuse.

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The Water Heist

Though this matter would never truly go away when it was deemed clear there would be no acceptance of B'aara's mercy by the Santinian, the newly raised Sergeant Fellstar was met with, alongside the others of the Sultan's Fourth Legion. Observation and Report would become the standard practice.

Furthermore as the White League sat Monochromatic it was deemed that the Magistrates selected, that the Legates selected, were skewed. Rumors abounded that Prelate Alejandro, that Magistrate Clearcreek, themselves had been to Il Modo in recent weeks, accompanying Religious Pilgrimage. This matter was heard, was one of concern, and then filed away.

That is until the fateful day that Legate Ricarrio Cassella was dragged from the Pyramid in shackles.

Until the day that the Water Heist was revealed, the Treason unspeakable.

That Jordan Clearcreek had come up with a notion, that the Legate had approved it, that others were party to it.

That in the height of the seat of the Pyramid, anointed by the Princesses as Legate, with Warad upon the Stele did conspiracy swirl.

A conspiracy brought to light as Akna of Kula and others took of action.

Inquisitor was summoned.

Trial was held.

Thrice was the Mercy of B'aara refused.

And rather than face true justice, did the coward take his own life.

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The Election

What would come to pass could not be called providence. At most it could be called reaction.

The Monochromatic Pyramid had set many rankled, and it had seen The Accord Signatories to strife and more as the Lily Pyramid had weakened both public trust and public perception of governance. The White League's treasons manifold and the Prelate raised without election or mandate, The Gold League's selection of the firebrand Ariel Hysair, and myself.

The same sought during investigation of the Dome were brought together regarding the Election. That trust must be restored, that a Mandate new must be carved. That The Accord as an Institution must be reaffirmed, in showing of a return to governance among the Pyramid.

That free of the Monochromatic that matters could be restored. That the Legate Akna, that I, could find compromise and path forward. That Assembly could be held without disruption. That Mission could be assigned and carried out by the Accord.

These matters have proven true.

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The Blasphemy of the Dome

However with the return of Governance comes the return of the Penal Code of Ephia's Well. In further discussion with the Astronomers, with the Sisters of the Priory, with the Janissaries, and with a growing presence of the Wheel within the College of the Balladeers it was deemed time to correct the errors of the past.

While there were reservations by some in the enactment the Chief Scribe confirmed the legitimacy of the action.

With mandate from the Accord, with the annointment by the Princess, with the Inquisitor of B'aara's judgement of the Traitor Cassella and the Thrice Blessing of B'aara refused - came utterance at the conclusion of trial. That he was refusing of B'aara's Mercy. That he was false. That he was Traitor.

And in such precedent set. The First Legate of the Dome would be demanded to the death by the Lions, and instead would take his own life.

And the errors of the past that allowed the Leagues to be compromised, would be mitigated.

And the errors of the past that allowed the Voiced Registry to be compromised, would be mitigated.

And the errors of the past that allowed the teachings of False practice, would be mitigated.

And the errors of the past that allowed the Permission of Asterbadian Practice in faith, would be mitigated.

And in this decision was made.

And in this the Sergeants of the Fourth Legion resolute.

And in this the Sisters of the Priory firm pious.

And in this the Astronomers of Q'tolip clinical.

The Accord and Legate in unison.

No more, shall the Dome, threaten this Holy City.

And at the Call to Prayer of the Temple of B'aara did men and women rejoice.

As John Gunn, as Gary Smith, as others take to rebaptism in B'aara's name.

As news came to this faithful gathering of the Policy that was to come.

As the Mother Al-Fayyid took to cheering.

As the Janissary took to rejoicing.

As the Announcement then made public to the City.

Article 18 was in effect.

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Gausim al-Marain
Article Eighteen is in effect.

In the words of the Crown Princess Faziima, The Lifeblood of this Well is the world's bounty, delivered unto it by She-of-many waters. It is the world's salvation.

In the words of Inquisitor Dayaz ibn Daza, B'aara's Mercy has been Thrice refused.

In the words of the Chief Scribe of the Sublime Garden, Legates are empowered to judge any crime as they see fit, and give out punishments as mandated by law. Including Exile.

The Dome of Man is hereby deemed Illegal Practice and Worship. The Laymen are encouraged to partake of private worship or seek peaceful rebaptism. The Fourth Legion's Sergeants are in agrement and so empowered by Ephia's Penal Code to investigate and pursue trial.

To La Banda Rossa. Your Shrine of Fortuna is given leave to persist for in the past it served for many years as humble, private, company offering. The same cannot be said for the Shrine of Santina. The Balladeers and Sisters are encouraged to attend this matter in due haste.

As said in the sacred Hymn to B'aara - 'B'aara most high, Who art exalted over all the Gods.' In your name we serve, in your name we raise to Stele. In your name we pray mercy for letting these transgressions last so long. Live. And Drink

[Palatial Physician]

Palatial Physician,

I write to inform you that your Wage has been adjusted upon the Stele per discussion with Legate Akna and mineself.

This is in part to facilitate the funding of other positions, but as Legate Domnhall kept exceedingly sparse record all that is known is why your office was created. No reports, no research, no information provided to our records to reflect what if anything he had you undertaking.

I welcome you to seek audience with me and we may speak of your position moving forward. As something of a physician myself I understand well the need for such a role. Yet some truly concerning rumors have also been brought my way that we must address.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of the Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat.

[Legate Akna]

Legate Akna

While the Chief Scribe makes arrangements, I wished to send you some initial considerations and thoughts on matters for efforts moving forward.

On Prelates

While the Duty of Prelate is one that sits primarily undefined and nebulous a great deal of effort it seems has been put into keeping them involved in affairs, in matters of State, and more that they may be prepared to immediately step in should tragedy occur or the ill of portent transpire.

I have seen often both Alejandro and Khalid in the wake of the Legates, and though I know you yourself felt of the role in a way, I believe it is a boon to the Legate to see such expanded.

To that end I propose to assist and encourage such, eschewing standard work but instead focusing on government affairs - the Wage of Prelate be raised to 4 dinar.

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On Magistrates

I would encourage you to see a second raised sooner than later, but I would suggest we see their duties expanded. At the last assembly of his term Domnhall spoke on my civil reforms allowing Magistrates to sit in matters of up to 2,000 dinar in mediation between the Voiced. I do not know how much Cassella or He shared with you on such but I can send you my notes on such in the coming days if you wish to learn more.

However absent such given the risk of exposure to criminal elements, possible threats, and more, I would propose a raise of Wage to 3 Dinar.

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On Vizier

I know you had said you had your reservations on Qari, and I am glad to hear them, but in the interim I would share my following thoughts:

Firstly, as one of Baz'eel he is well versed in the acumen of trade and more in regards to local custom of the Great Ash. As a former Legate he is also not unfamiliar with the means and methods of creating boons from little more than opportunity. A wealth of experience that may be worth considering

Though indeed, let us speak more I understand the reservations are quite real.

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Small reflections on my first day, as matters kept us from meeting.

We may speak of any of these in person at your leisure, or if you agree on the first two simply send me written word and we can see the, adjusted upon the Stele.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat

[Sergeant]

Sergeant

Apologies as your missive last night was not responded to. It has been secured, memorized, and burned.

The gravity of such is not lost on me. Keep Legate Akna and I appraised as you are able.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of the Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat

[Lyrist Aurelio]

Lyrist Aurelio

The negotiation is underway but the Astronomers of Q'tolip have been appraised.

They have requested

Former Legate Marcellus to lead scouting operation.
One Balladeer, Koji
One Astronomer, Ashley
One Sister (Or Acolyte)
One Janissary, Determine
One La Banda, Of your choosing.

Legate Akna and I still negotiate matters of otherwise, but you are encouraged to seek the Janissary to gauge their interest.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of the Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat

[Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-MarainOf the Great Temple of Baz'eelLegate of the First Seat]

Scarab,

The Allotment is likely to attend in two weeks time. If you wish to speak before then, tomorrow evening two hours from the time I send this missive we may speak.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of the Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat

Sultan's Herald
Let it be known that Gausim al-Marain of the League of Purple has won the elections for the seat of Legate! They are to report to the Chamber of Rule to be officially sworn in.

Ambient Message: Word spreads that Gausim al-Marain has elevated Nasreen Shabani to the position of Prelate.

Word spreads that Gausim al-Marain has elevated Azaghal Gemspell to the position of Magistrate.

Word spreads that Gausim al-Marain has elevated Naram-nu Khum`nazir to the position of Magistrate.

DM Shout:A new Purple Legate sworn into the lofty heights of the Pyramid. An end to the era of monochromatic rule. All the Well buzzes with anticipation about the Pyramid chamber.

Aaisha al-Samar
This is Deputy Chief Scribe al-Samar. After Delays to Ensure the Royal Barge may safely Descend during this Ash Storm, the Chamber of Rule has been Unsealed to the Public for the Ceremony of Annointing.

DM Shout:From far-off lands, an ash-sail makes its way towards Ephia's Well. Gausim al-Marain shall, it is said, give a speech.

Legate Gausim Al-Marain's Acceptance Speech

Dutiful Servitors of the Accord. Good Citizens of Ephia's Well. My Dear friends. I bid you welcome to the Chamber and I extend my humble gratitude for your support. May your hopes continue to bloom...

Know that the gravity of this Mandate you have laid upon me is not one taken lightly. For indeed, we have known tumult. But it is my sincerest hope we may in these immediate days commence with a return to Governance and due Civic duties.

As we stand here, among this Chamber of Rule, let resume the Rule of this Governance. Let resume the duties we each hold firm - That the Assembly shall return to decorum. That the Voiced shall act with civility in mind. And that we may honor both B'aara and ourselves with our works.

There is much work to be done, but the Legate Ymir and I are prepared for the Task. And we ask all of you, the Voiced, the Accorded, to prepare the same. For we shall be working fiercely in these coming days.

Live and Drink.

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Crown Princess Faziima's Speech

[She raises both of her hands, speaking powerfully] Gausim al-Marain, blesssed by the Mother, bearer of her most holy waters -

You have return'd them here, to the Fount of her own making.

Gausim al-Marain: [He remains bowed at the waist as she speaks, eyes down]

Princess Faziima: O Gausim, today you are chosen not by we but by She. The lifeblood of this Well is the world's bounty, delivered unto it by She-of-many-waters. It is the world's salvation.

We are not masters. We are mere custodians. We shall make ready the world for its rebirth. As the first tears trickled from the Blessed Mother's eyes -

So too shall the first trickle of life flow out into this desolate, blighted land. Here from this holy place.

Chief Scribe Frederica Ashbury: [She gingerly steps forward, dipping down to place a holy decanter into the Crown Princess' hands.]

Princess Faziima: [Holding the decanter in her fingers, she dips two fingers into the water.]

[She steps forward.]

Gausim al-Marain: [As she moves forward he bends lower, taking to his knees]

 Princess Faziima: [There is the sudden, uncomfortable splash of water across the Legate's face - here in the dry, arid chamber.]

I anoint you once, in the name of B'aara, the merciful, the everlasting, the unending and the unceasing.

I anoint you twice, in the name of the Mother, the charitable, the kind, the compassionate, the caring.

I anoint you thrice, in the name of my Father, in the name of the Sultan, Osman VI of the House Maribid. He who is blessed by the glory of the Eagle. He who ascends.

Gausim al-Marain: [As the waters stream down his ashen skin, his mustache grows to shimmer]

Princess Faziima: I bid you rise: Legate of Ephia's Well, recognized by all powers good and wholesome, to reign and to rule justly and wisely.

Gausim al-Marain: [At this he immediately takes to stand]

Princess Faziima: O Gausim - does her weeping cease for thee? No. But, perhaps, these tears shed on this most momentous of days - are those of joy.

[She turns, raising her hand towards the crowd.] Ephia's Well. Rejoice. Your new Legate. Prosperity and plenty await us all.

[close]

Aaisha al-Samar
Legates al-Marain and Ymir shall now Host the first Assembly of their Mutual Rule. Attend, Voiced, and be Heard.

Bashir Khatara
'Mother B'aara now stands upon the Steele, by agreement of both Legates... May the Well know her mercy...'

38 votes to Gausim, 18 Votes to Khalid, 7 votes to Qari.

A Mandate of full Accord Support, for the newly anointed Legate.

A Non-Human Purple Cabinet, curiously with two very different Dwarven Sorcerer as Magistrate Counsel.

An Assembly of (Relatively) little disruption as Scribe and Janissary call to order.

A Mission for the Balladeers, leading others of the Accord in scouting Southward.

B'aara on the Stele, by Legate Akna's gracious agreement.

The Dwarven Voting Coalition Endorsement

Azaghal Gemspell
The Dwarven Voting coalition will support Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain this election; a person of sound mind, soul, and principles.

[close]

And the second day of Voting is simply... quiet from the Purple Campaign aside from a request with the dwarven scholar Azaghal.

Gold and White continue their bellowing of policy and vote counts amidst jockeying, some of the scribes saying Qari is ahead by vote count, Khalid insisting otherwise.

Candidate Gausim can be seen spending much of his time in the Pyramid's foyer, simply talking to those who come and go, despite the claims that only 44 of 80 or more of the Voiced have cast their vote.

Nadiri Isaac, Nasreen Shabani, Bashir, both Prelate Khalid and Candidate Qari in between their bellows towards one another. Clarrisant the Torchbearer, Herald-for-Hire Hillard, and others.

Like a small stone cherubic fixture in the Pyramid of the Sublime Garden.

A genial ashfolk in his sable black and b'aara blue, simply welcoming questions and mingling with those who come and go. If the Electorate is lethargic or hopeless as some claim, he shows no sign of it bothering.

No sense of stress, no seeming care for the predictions, no rush to raise new Voiced. Just engaging with the peoples.

Your forum books are a delight, and the last one was a true treat of political science and rhetoric on the landscape from a very IC perspective.

Though we never met much on Sol it was wild to become such a figment of your rhetoric, and it was great on Gausim to have our little passing moments of "I hate you, I hate you to, let's hate together all of them".

As far as first PCs go, truly amazing job. Watching you grow and understand more of the political game and similar was an absolute delight. And how sometimes on EFU the best choice isn't always the "Right one" but the one that engages the most people, and moves the tale along to force people to react to.

When your next PC gets murdered 3 days in for something that feels pointless, just revel in it, that's showbiz baby.

[Sacred Geometry]

Sacred Geometry
Gausim al-Marain

Geometric function holds a dear place in the hearts of any Ashfolk, but no action more sacred than the assembly of Sacred Geometry. It is the honed, precise, and generational proven most effective means of communication.

The Sacred Social Triangle

A simple but fundamental geometric formation it allows all three speaker to be heard. Dependent upon the social standing in question the angle and base by which the triangle is formed speaks volumes of both recognition and humility.

Equilateral footing ensures those of similar caste, station, and purpose. However much as the Pyramid of Ephia, gradation occurs dependent upon the weights and measures of status. The utmost of course being to stand shoulder to shoulder, the lower recognizing the superior by proximital gravitation.

Conversely so too may one who is outcast, chastised, or being disciplined find themselves akin to the child - gazing up at both parents side by side with one another, if the duo take the dominant position.

A delicate, measured thing but often the most simple of formations to understand.

[close]

The Diamond of Dialogue

Just as one moves up in the world with generational wealth, experience, and wisdom of culture, so too does one move up in Social discipline. The Diamond of Dialogue, precious and forged under pressure, bursts with good taste and proper decorum.

Throughout the course of conversation shall footings shift and sway, as in time a conversational dominance recognized by those of clout and status. A protective barrier effectively erected betwixt the highest, and lowest, while the middling jockey for position themselves.

Gaze to the Architecture of Ephia's Well. Notice the pathways of the Roads. Notice of the city's streets, its walkways. Notice the Accorded.

The Pyramid, the Symbol of the Sultan, sits on high. The Mount and Janissary Garrison, protectors of differing creed, settle east and west. The Rose, where Refugee and more enter the city first assimilating, to the South.

In conversation there begins a simple quartet position but as any dance, once partners are found in the middle does the dominant presence take its place. In large disparagement the three will form an advanced form of the Sacred Triangle, all three recognizing their humble status before the greater.

[close]

The Pentagram of Parley

Often utilized in tense negotiations and multifaceted discussions. The Pentagram of Parley is most often utilized for Stately works emulating the seating of the fabled Kardesler.

Nothing more need be said.

[close]

The Haute Hexagon

When one considers a party it is often the matriarchal aunt who comes to mind. She has adorned herself in her finery. She has seen her hair done in a newest style of the season. Her garb is refined beyond measure. She exudes grace from every tense breath while her abdomen kept taut. She is poise personified.

Until she has six glasses of wine, lets fly a scathing remark, and the entire dinner party descends into a verbal jousting the likes of which may be compared to the fabled Duello of the Outer Rings. The Haute Hexagon is formed.

Three pairs of two taking their sides around the table, raised from the chairs, oft standing in charitable agreement with their dinner partner for the evening whomever it shall be.

Once matters are settled, once civility is reaffirmed, is Order restored.

The Diadic Triangle, two partners at each corner, signifies a conclusion of unseemly activity and a return to pleasant peace. The seats at the head of the table reserved for the Victor and his or her courted guest, spouse, or simply companion for the evening.

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The Forbidden Heptagon

Come now. If you are having an affair with seven people invited, surely you know an eighth, or collectively the assembly may forget to invite the member of lowest status to enjoy at Haute Hexagon.

No one ever wishes to sit the odd figure out in a Heptagon. Any planner of party worth their salt shall have two lists - one of treasured Potential Eights, and one of Removal from Sevens.

It is why it is not so uncommon for one who often finds themselves upon such a list to offer great charity and due respect in hopes of courting one who finds themselves on many Potential Eights. High of social status, high of acclaim, such a flattering Geometric rise. To overcome your status as One of Removal, to arrive with such esteemed guest as a Potential Eight.

[close]

The Octagon of Opulence

"No words. Should have sent a poet." - uttered a man who first gazed upon this splendid Geometric facsimile. Nigh unlimited angles of conversation, an ever rotating shift of status and merit, an imperceptible difference between such form and The Perfect Wheel. So crisp of angle, so clean of lines. Truly the height of Social Geometry.

Oh, to have a Potential Eight. The social event of the season is guaranteed to have one and as the hosts of parties far and near so wish - If B'aara is charitable and Warad is kind, their offerings of treats and samplings, goods and services, shall court them such Social esteem.

For all will remember where they were when they witnessed in an Octagon of Opulence.

But precious few will remember for a lifetime that it was their pleasant picnic in the Garden, it was their Drawing Board discussing affairs of night and culture, it was their vineyard, their office, their home... that saw Host to such.

No higher social honors, as showcased by the Host sitting affixed atop the Octagon. And all who came, be they Ambassador or Statesmen, Merchant Mogul and Captain of Industry, Highest of Priest,  Shall raise a glass and toast to such charitable host. And a single tear is known to pour, in B'aara's honor, down their gracious face. To have such honors gifted.

Food shall taste better, wine more robust, treats all the sweeter. The acoustics of conversation bringing the lilting laugh and the deepest chortle.

The trajectory of a young man or woman's entire future can be skewed upwards by hosting that season's Octagon. Many shall the suitors come. Envy of all rival. Such a boon to Status.

And to partake of the Octagon, an indulgence like no other.

Mothers drill their daughters on just the right angle to cant their head to laugh to cripple a rival's esteem and ensure she is viewed an undesirable suitor.

Fathers ensure their son's mustaches well trimmed and waxed to catch just the right sheen in the dim light of the Celestial Disc. For nothing draws the lady's eye like a well groomed Bel-Ishun Broombristle.

And in one social event a season of preparation.

Perfection.

[close]