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Topics - Random_White_Guy

#1
Correspondence / La Banda Rossa
March 04, 2024, 12:21:12 AM
La Banda,

It is known that recovery still underway but it is so too known that La Banda Rossa's successes and fortunes ever broadened from fastidious works and shrewd contract.

Though the Bodyguard License failed, Arms Bearing Authorization sits now the purview of a single Legate. And such a thing could go far in improving your contracts among the Voiced and more if due equipped and more security can be provided.

If you could among your collective select one of yours to negotiate I would be glad to begin engagement, to discuss Arms Bearing Authorization, terms, cost, and more for the Company as a whole that we may ensure these actions of the past week do not repeat themselves anew.

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


#2
Correspondence / Purple League (PC/DM)
March 04, 2024, 12:15:33 AM
Fair friends Purple,

In speaking with the Sisters an Auction is to be held to see the raise of funds in pursuit of the final push towards seeing Shaimela's Splendor built at the Sand Gate. As well as the investments of fair Baz'eel forward.

As part of this auction I shall be offering some personal charity, but if any of you wish to consider such, we would have no doubt a chance to see excess merchandise stock sold and further funds drafted towards the cause.

I can safely say I imagine none wish this project to stall, falter, or find its way back to the Rose Gate.

Seek out Sister Selsi or send word my way, that I may see such to her, as she and her acolyte Narwen have charitably agreed to orchestrate such.

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


//Aim is for Sunday, 3 PM CST, but any surplus merchandise, offers, or more welcome to see my way or to Selsi
#3
Books and Publications of the Desert / On Violence
March 03, 2024, 05:52:33 PM
On Violence
Gausim al-Marain

Envision if you would, an oasis pleasant and serene.  Heave a boulder into such. Watch the splash, the ripples, the consequence.

This. This is violence. Many believe it is a matter that resolves itself when satisfaction had. This word, satisfaction. It is used by the Wroth, by the outringers of the old City for their "Duello", and more. Violence though is not only a physical wounding. A wound of the Soul.

Disregarding other options, other considerations, other outcomes, for what? Sticks and Stones. Savagery. Magic to inflict your will - not by the spirit of that argument, not by the valid nature of the claim, not by divine mandate, not by due status, any power save your self.

A singular, errant action to disrupt all things, in the intimation that you are correct where others false. For while you may believe your actions just, you cannot tell how far the ripples, the splash, the consequences will reach.

Ballader Koji so proud, so dutiful, it is known he long aspired to see feud with Vico ended. Had he done such in the desert, in the Castle de Rose, it would have been still egregious.

But to do so in the Chamber of Rule. To drop his sword and declare "Feed me to the Lions, Feed me to the Condottiero, I care not". This callousness, this lack of foresight, this lack of wisdom, this belief of infallibility. That one called a "Cancer" excised. Damn the consequence.

...And in the process damn us all.

For hours did the Unspoken sit carved upon the Stele. For hours was Government sealed. Before Ambassador to Ka'esh, Director of Gohari Heavy Machinery, the Voiceless, the Voiced who came to our Assembly. This Settlement not viewed as some bastion of Refugee, of haven for the downtrodden, of pillar of aspiration for the Great Ash Desert. A place where The Unspoken's Name was howled by black magic, ripped from the throats of all who dwelled in Ephia's Well, on the fateful day that yesterday was. This settlement viewed as barbaric. Violent. Cruel. Apathetic. And welcoming of the Violence and chaos that is courted by the Unspoken once Spoken.

As a Woman's Corpse tossed into our heart of Rule with wanton disregard for propriety, care, or attending the dead. And so soon after as a Man's Corpse made fresh, lifesblood pooling on the stones. As violence of steel, spell, flung and splattered upon the Stele and walls and floors.

Though the first impact of the Boulder, the Deconsecration of the Stele, was settled.

How far were the ripples?
How large was the splash?
How could any know?
What the repercussions to come?

...While Astronomers smirked and jeered of their foes misfortunes, have we just empowered Diakos' rank, dooming their projects south to be overwhelmed as flesh and bone and more ripped from the innards of the Apothar and Nadiri? As newly emboldened of the Unspoken felt the ripples of the name and the red lights shot in to the sky, visible from so far?

...While the Legion struggled to maintain order, as so much chaos was focused upon the Chamber of Rule, and the Arena in the aftermath, what of those deserters in the Creep who howled and cheered and laughed at our failing? Of they who hunt, and prey upon the innocent.

...And while The Grandmaster's own Lyrist and others, upon the steps of the Pyramid, listened to her lament of the death of her dream. Only to be told "Yes, Grandmaster, and you killed it" as rose-cloaks tossed to the ground, have we just disenfranchised countless Refugee from the Accord?

...And while Recluta ask, "Condottiero, Must we still protect these swine?" The answer of "That depends on La Capitana and the Grandmaster" sending a blanching of pallor across the crowd, with renewed fears of new potential violence to come betwixt La Banda and Balladeer?

...These wounds so deep. So jarring. So fierce.
This. This the cost of Violence.
Time shall tell what shape the scars will take.
#4
Public Speeches / Doubt and Resolve
March 03, 2024, 06:43:12 AM
DM Shout:
Chaos and confusion around the Pyramid after an Assembly with death and violence aplenty.

Baleful glows emanate from the Pyramid's topmost spires.

QuoteBashir Khatara
'Please evacuate the Pyramid immediately! EEK!'

DM Shout:
Chaos and confusion around the Pyramid after an Assembly with death and violence aplenty.

From the Pyramid's tip, a terrible red glow radiates from the topmost tip.

QuoteAaisha al-Samar
Sealing Protocals are to be Enacted in the Chamber of Rule. All Non-Essential Staff are to be removed from the Pyamid at once!

DM Shout:The entire Well trembles.

Upon the lips of all, there is a word, and it is plain:

BASHMU.

Doubt
Gausim al-Marain
What began as an allotment of unprecedented graciousness and offer by the Balladeers, to see the entirety of the Accord's funds attended and prepared for trying times to come, to see all Three branches given a third increase over the Saenus standard...

What began as a heartfelt speech of agreement, from Sergeant Ashworth, about his men, his boys, who he called like sons, seeking to build something. To grow something. To aid and improve matters going forward, to help preserve us from the Gutters, to aid the District...

Even Apothar Mevura, putting aside politics, taking in feelings, seeing, hearing the wisdom in what was espoused. Espousing himself of what could be brought in a future. Such a show of unity. The three branches of the Accord.

...So much pain, so much grief, so much resentment, anger, bitterness. Festering. Clawing and cloying at the chest. Ripping through flesh, blood, steel. And now I fear, I wonder, were these words even true? Was this even genuine?

So much doubt, sowed by violence. So much agony. Such things manifest the Unspoken. A curse unlike the last - for at least, in some way, cause was given to Diakos' machinations and malicious intents. To sow his revenge. To make us suffer.

Before I made my way here I prayed to B'aara, to find the words. To stir in my teachings, my thoughts, my hearts - something I could say which would bring soothing. All I can muster is this, from the same Hymn I used to open the ASsembly.

To thee I cry, O'lady of the Wheel.

To rule though is not merely the lavish office, it is not the fame of a name known by many, it is not the claims of that how nobly you shall graciously accept your duty. It is in the work done. So I say this. We press on.
[close]

In escort from the Krak de Rose, a number of Balladeers, an Acolyte, and the Legate after his claim to press on. They move with purpose collecting water at the Temple of B'aara, before making for the Pyramid.

There they are joined with others, including Legate Ymir, benediction given by Acolyte Narwen while Vizier Bashier prepares the keys to unseal the Temple. And the War-Party to enter.

DM Shout:
There is a great fluttering of wings in the spaces of the Pyramid...

And then...the funds dispensed. 32,000 dinar to each of the Accord. By now Balladeer Aurelio's orders 10 to each of the petals, and 2,000 to the district. Though the Sisters graciously offering 2,000 of their share the same.

Resolve
Gausim al-Marain
[A soft huffing, and puffing] And so... We did press on. Into the Pyramid. Eight-times clockwise the Monolith, countering the Wyrm. Balladeer, Sister, Astronomer, Legion, Legates, more... In Quest dispatched by the Balladeers to atone...

In laying low the Unspokens snakes, in laying low their champions, in slaying Great Lizard, Basilisk, and more that had infiltrated our sacred Pyramid. And in Consecration, B'aara returned. The Pyramid opened. Though matters dire. New legislation to come in the coming days...

...But as the Sable Cloak holds us this night, rejoice. The Mother has recognized the steps of atonement. Her mercies boundless. And chance we yet have to better. Live, my friends. Live. And Drink.
[close]

Though the Mother returned to the Stele... scar tissue yet to form from such deep wound.
#5
Public Speeches / Ransom and Mercy's Limit
March 01, 2024, 06:01:45 AM
QuoteDiocletes Diadys
This is...this is-- Soldier Diadys. [He sniffs and groans, breath short] With a message. They-- oh gods... [He tries to keep his composure.]

QuoteLieutenant Vardgul Skarn
Coin'll be delivered as required, by the requested courier. Release the Magistrate as a sign of good intent. When you're free, al-Karim, make a bellows. Coin's not coming downstairs until we hear that bellows.

QuoteDiocletes Diadys
'We are the men...that Lieutenant Teg murd- murdered. I stood the line while the...the Cinquefoil Rose broke. While Lynneth was ch-... choking on her own blood.'

'And the Lieutenant will be coming to stand trial before the Sultan's men, or...or we are going to return his lit-...little pig- [A whimper] piggies in pieces next time we catch them.' [It is cut short at that]

QuoteLieutenant Vardgul Skarn
We haven't heard the Magistrate yet. Coin's not coming downstairs until we do.

QuoteFaisal Al-Karim
Hello everyone, I would like you to know that I am quite safe, and that they would like the money to be delivered for the Sergeant to be returned safely. Three minutes.

QuoteLucia Salacia
By none's leave, the Lion. A deal is a deal and it is made. I'll be watching you Samton, you coward, you left your men behind. I thought you were a soldier, not a Banda Rossa. You best get to work against them or I'll keep going .

QuoteSamton Ashworth
Qari's on his way, teleported away to deliver the coin, Lucia.

QuoteJerrod Felch
The faith you place in your institutions, Legate Gausim, does not seem to be shared overly much by those who reside in them. I'll try and work my way down the list, as I imagine by now, yer Sergeant's been returned and everyone's licking their wounds...

QuoteLucia Salacia
A thousand trampling feet upon the people below every day, a weight that must be lifted away. I wander freely among you and witness your actions and deeds, I witness the generous giving nothing to them but instead back to the cycle.

I will die in your plaza, or perhaps even to the lions, and be far less than a martyr or anything of note, but I will have died trying to save this world. I gather the fragments and piece them together, I wander where you cannot.

I find what is beyond your sight, and I gather those who are willing to witness the truth. My spear for the Queen, she who casts me out for my own ignorance still, she who's miracle was halted by the Rose.

But I wander still, two sets of foot prints wherever I do, and I see the salvation of this Well, this world. She, Queen Ibithal, daugther of the Mother herself....will return, and you will weep into my own blood when she does.

QuoteGausim al-Marain
Oh, Jerrod. It is faith in institutions, like faith in the Wheel, that is a sign of respect. Legitimacy born of, tended, and adhered to .Rites and Liturgy. Ritual. Protocol. Mandate.

I may not always agree with the Astronomers on matters of politic and policy, but there are few I trust more to ward me from the Ash and in pursuit of the Nameless Courts.

I may not see eye to eye with the Cinquefoil Rose, in their odd adherence to a past so far gone and a life unknown to me, of violence and Mankind's endeavor towards nobility, but I have rarely seen so easily capture the imagination of a chance, for more.

And while the Legion and I may have our disagreements, I trust them every waking moment iwth my life, as do many Citizens of this city. These institutions, the Accord. They bear such a heavy weight upon their shoulders.

QuoteHerald of Ephia's Well
Hear ye, hear ye! Let it be known that in their wisdom, Gausim al-Marain has hereby exiled Jerrod Felch from the settlement of Ephia's Well in perpetuity. Let them find no succor here!

Hear ye, hear ye! Let it be known that in their wisdom, Gausim al-Marain has hereby exiled Lucia Salacia from the settlement of Ephia's Well in perpetuity. Let them find no succor here!

QuoteGausim al-Marain
May the Mother of Sultan's tears cleanse their hands, of the dirt they are soon to thrust them into.
#7
Correspondence / Clarissant
February 29, 2024, 04:27:17 AM
Clarissant,

You had said you were an ill fit for some stations because of your Oaths.

You are known far and wide though as one who attends the healing of many.

Let us meet and speak, an offer I have for you.

Honored Waterbearer Guasim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat
#8
Public Speeches / Office of Current and Foreign Affairs
February 29, 2024, 04:18:57 AM
Overnight does word begin to spread amidst the more formal, but equally the informal backchannels of the Palatial Pyramid.

QuoteAmbient Message
Word spreads that Gausim al-Marain has elevated Bashir Khatara to the position of Vizier.

A pair of announcements follows

QuoteBashir Khatara
'Ephia's Well. Good day.' [A nervous cough.] 'Today, I step into the role of Vizier, a role which, contrary to the belief of some, has never been quite so simple or singular. In my time as a Scribe, I have aspired to serve the Sultan, the Legates, and the people of Ephia's Well to the best of my abilities.'

'My role as a Vizier will continue that work. I shall aim to implement and inform of the foreign policy set forth by our Legates. I shall be an advisor, and an organizer. Beyond that, my responsibilities shall not be increasing.'

'In this, I shall be a Vizier al-tanfidh. I hope that I shall be able to assist in guiding Ephia's Well towards a brighter future. Thank you.'

QuoteGausim al-Marain
May the Vizier's rise, along with so many others before him, show testament to the good works to come from the Civil Service. In the coming days his office of Current Affairs, and many others to come shall be expanding and altering the ways they aid our fair settlement.
#9
Correspondence / Alejandro Benjazar
February 29, 2024, 04:03:13 AM
Alejandro,

This shall be the final time I broach the subject, but I would be remiss to not make a final attempt.

You said if the Scholars of the College sought to raise you, you would call it duty and rally to sit as Legate.

Duty though is not a matter that may be mangopicked.

Whatever your objections you have said you are first and foremost an Archaeologist.

You yourself had said your livelihood was under attack.

You yourself said in the Souk that your hope was dwindling.

You yourself said that this though not a rational decision.

As Legate of the First Seat of Ephia's Well, in all official capacity I may muster.

Please.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat
#10
Correspondence / Sergeants of the Fourth
February 27, 2024, 06:01:49 AM
Sergeants,

I hope to speak with one or as many of you as I may in the coming days. We near conclusion of the negotiations regarding Shaimela's Splendor, the new District to be raised at the Sand Gate.

While we await word from our northern investors, The Pyramid requires logistics of what is required from the Fourth Legion for expansion of patrol and security both during construction and once the District is completed.

Seek me, let us speak, and move this long drawn ordeal to a splendid conclusion.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat
#11
Correspondence / Lyrist Aurelio
February 27, 2024, 04:22:48 AM
Lyrist,

Per your request I have found avenue to alleviate the debt that Balladeer Koji has incurred.

Seek Legate Akna at your leisure.

I know it may not have come how you desired, but I do honor my word.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marian
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat
#12
Public Speeches / Shaimela's Splendor
February 27, 2024, 04:14:07 AM
But one cycle of the Demon's unbearable heat after La Banda Rossa's endorsement, comes another...


QuoteGausim al-Marain
Live. And Drink. With the Call to Prayer concluded, as we conversed on the nature of charity, of justice, of more I am moved to rejoice. For this night, indeed, when Iyar's Blossoms announce themselves, I announce news.

In the words of Seer Rebecca, who was dispatched from the right hand of the Abbess,

"I have come now because she sees in this moment a momentous, hopeful occasion; not only for we of the Sibylline Sisters, but for all of Ephia's Well..."

The Sisters of the Sibylline Sisterhood have given support for the Sand Gate to be the location for the new District. No longer named the Rose District. Moving forward it shall, as Hasheema is honored in Hope, be known as Shaimela's Splendor.

Auction is to come to see to the conclusion of the 500,000 dinar raised. Investors we await word upon. And at long last we move one step closer to this new era of Ephia's Well. Live. And Drink.
#13
Notices and Bulletins / The First Seat's Charity Auction
February 27, 2024, 02:48:25 AM
THE FIRST SEAT'S CHARITY AUCTION

I am pleased to announce a combined charitable effort - Betwixt the Legate of the First Seat and the Priory. An Auction will be held, to be announced in coming days, providing quite a few items which may draw interest to the populace.

In the coming days Sister Selsi and others of the Priory shall be seeking Merchants who wish to charitably contribute their stock.

Proceeds shall be donated to the District Fund.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat
#14
Correspondence / Balladeer Siegward
February 26, 2024, 04:54:27 AM
Balladeer Siegward,

I am pleased to share the fruits of our discussion have come to pass.

While it is not a law I could get enshrined to allow only the Voiced, I have no intention of empowering the Voiceless.

Seek me and we can negotiate what shall see you the first Voiced to enjoy Arms Bearing, with Authorization from the First Seat.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat
#15
Correspondence / Astronomers of Q'tolip
February 26, 2024, 04:18:29 AM
Astronomers of Q'tolip,

I have been informed that Legate Domnhall unilaterally declared prohibition of license upon Citizen of Baz'eel, Qari Alriyh.

As one Legate enacted such, one revokes it.

While it is known you have your scholarly debates and sparring with my Magistrate, I endeavor to seek the return of his Archaeological and Divination Licenses of which he had previously purchased through legal and proper channels.

A simple enough request I imagine considering what was garnered for you in the last day.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
Of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat
#16
Public Speeches / Sand District and Wheel
February 25, 2024, 05:44:25 PM
QuoteGausim al-Marain
Good and true Voiced Citizens. Fair friends. I beg a moment of your time. When I was anointed by the Crown Princess, to sit as Legate of the First Seat, I declared let resume the rule of Governance. It brings me no small joy to announce, that this a day of days.

Of the Ecclesiastic Bureaucracy it fills me with a difficult to describe euphoria, to announce that Balestriere Vico Rasca has committed to seek the Wheel. That Recluta Dralnu, Priest of the Warrior, shall attend his Re-baptism to welcome him among the Warrior Elio l'Aquila, Hazezon, Hu Prak, and more.

But I do not bring only one piece of news. No. Of the Secular Bureaucracy, La Banda Rossa has shifted their position. They lend wholly and by contract, their support that The Gate of Sand shall be the location of the new District of Ephia's Well.

As we speak dispatches are sent northwards - To the Nadim District Ash & Sail Company, an Aviation Company. Ghalish and Sons, a Gem Mining gonglomerate, Hanahara Textiles, the largest clothing Manufacturer of Baz'eel, Gohari Heavy Machinery, a defense corporation.

Ah, forgive... my elation. It flows like the Mother's tears, I rejoice so. An Aviation Company, a Mining Conglomerate. But so too the Great Temple of Baz'eel. That we may see investments come forth, that we may at last see ground broke. I pray my Co-Legate shall agree to this news...

QuoteAurelio d'Lyon
I congratulate Vico on taking one step towards redemption by embracing the Wheel as his pantheon. This news of La Banda Rossa turning against the rest of the Rose regarding the new district shall not go down unnoticed however.

QuoteGausim al-Marain
But I do not require her for this progress made - One half of authorization is hereby granted to Vico Rasca for descent. And know that Legate Akna and I have received the Priory of the Sybaline Sisterhood's request for shift to the Sand Gate. We shall convene on such in coming days.

And if such affirmed, we pray the Balladeers shall seek us the same. That this matter may come at long last, to conclusion. Live and Drink.
#17
Correspondence / Magistrate Faisal
February 25, 2024, 06:41:16 AM
Magistrate,

Per our discussion, my collection of submissions from my briefest tenure as magistrate.

Help yourself to peruse but the Civil Procedure was my second Counsel to Legate Domnhall.

Therein quite a few case examples but also some suggestions for procedure and protocols, as well as limitations.

Your thoughts welcome though.

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

#18
Books and Publications of the Desert / Legal Reformation
February 24, 2024, 03:06:44 PM
Legislative Reform
Gausim al-Marain

Legislation at its core is a fundamental practice. The Voiced of Ephia's Well have been emboldened with a chance most in this Great Ash desert may never consider, in the Sultan's infinite wisdom and most charitable spirit. Ka'esh? Qadira? Il Modo? You believe these rulers would be so benevolent and so gracious to allow their Penal Code to be so malleable?

To this though I say a great many of the Voiced have a misunderstanding of what, or why, Legislative reform is. To assist in this matter I will be drafting this treatise to help stoke, I hope, the Voiced to be more vocal of their legal proposals and take a more active role as is their duty in the shaping of Ephia's Well.

Part 1: The Fundamentals of Law
At its core the Stele of Law is a symbolic representation of the Sultan's presence. However as said previously it is the chance for the Voiced to be the advocates of their own future. A Voiced who runs a mercenary company will see this world with a different view than a Voiced who serves in the Janissaries, than a Voiced who attends as a Scribe, a Voiced who spends his day selling wares in the Souk.

The beauty of the Stele is that it is able to be so changed.

In Ephia's Law this comes by three matters.

Firstly - The Legates may simply agree on a matter and see it enacted.

Secondly - The Assembly may use their allotment of time with the Legates to raise proposal among their peers.

Third - The Voiced may approach the Legates and seek to convince them.

Each option presents different difficulties but so too different opportunities.

The failing is a majority seek only the Second option - Presenting a half thought out law with little consulting of the Scribes, the Legates, other Voiced, of what a truly useful law would be. The resulting actions a matter of the Voiced swiftly leading into debate, insult, conflict, and ultimately a stalling of Legal proceedings.
[close]

Part 2: The Forming of Law
To get Both Legates to agree on a matter is no simple thing. It takes time, patience, compromise, and due diligence. Our duties are manifold and getting us to weigh in on a matter at times can be distracted by Accord threat, security issue, demands of the Pyramid, demands of the Sultanate, or other presses upon our time.

It is my fundamental belief that the best course of action in enacting a Law is for a pair of Voice, of two different Leagues, to meet and discuss the merits and failings of a proposed law. Find what works, find was does not work, speak with one another. Partake of scholarly and seasoned debate. Engage in the processes to the fullest.

Then, when you have both hammered out the details - Endeavor to seek the Assembly or the Legates.

There is merit to either avenue but it would prevent the most common practice of people showing up with a half-thought law that is left to wilt on the Assembly Floor.
[close]

Part 3: The Convincing of Legates
This however presents the final obstacle. Some have in the past sought to use Voiced Assembly pressure to sway the Legates into making a decision on a matter. Others have sought more private debate and audience, making appointments with the scribes, bouncing from office of Legate to Legate in hopes of progress made. Some believe like the elections if you are able to buy, bribe, or convince enough Voiced to raise their voice it shall be a chorus too loud to be ignored. Others believe more private pleas to Legates brings swifter progress, absent of theatrics, with gracious gift and new idea.

The answer, regrettably, is that there is no one true answer to enact whatever you desire. Each Legate has different ambitions, different views of the City, and a differing idea on what ought and ought not be codified upon the Stele of Law.

Patience is a virtue all too commonly known but when it comes to legislative agenda you must be prepared to flow as the endless river Edutu. Carve the massive canyon with persistent pressure but a willingness to ebb in some areas, flow in others. This the nature of compromise. This the nature of improvement. This, the nature of convincing.
[close]

At its core though there is a need for more Legislative participation from the Voiced. It is a duty, an opportunity, and a privilege that is squandered by so many who have found their way to this once illustrious Status.

To assist I present a small list of recent legal changes and their merits.

As well as proposed laws for the future that may be worth weighing.

The Reformation of Assault - Legate Akna and I were rightly appalled by the maiming of Hamdan al-Hamdan and the eye-taking of Radislav. She proposed the law be changed to raise it to Capital charge. The Deputy Chief Scribe suggested this come from a place of clarity and also the adding of Magical Assault to the Stele. This, was a good negotiation and a fair law.

The Revoking of Accomplice - A wide sweeping, vague, authority giving law which was convoluted, poorly written, and in many ways could be used to exploit any considerations. The Legate Akna and I came to agreement that this must be repealed.

Neither of these actions were robust, overly contentious, and somewhat boring. But such is the nature of the duty.

Let them be considerations of ways current laws may be improved, the Penal Code be stripped of overly complex notions, or possible alternatives to the present way matters attended.

In conclusion a list of Laws which, while they may be contested, all have a kernel of possibility.

Let your imagination guide your hands, oh Voiced, when penning and proposing Law.

Potentially Enacted Laws
Voiced Oblige - That the Voiced of Ephia for their efforts may be permitted Two rolls in conflict of spoils.
Minor: Resistance of or ignoring of such practice by the Voiceless.

Merchant Privilege - The prohibition of those not of the Gold League in partaking of the Stalls of the Souk of Salt and Spices, ensuring those who partake of the craft are true professionals dedicated to the craft and not merely boardworking hucksters. Minor Charge.

Political Fraudulence - The proven action of misrepresentation of a Political League's sworn tenets, active duties, and set Agenda. Charge: Serious & Dishonorable Discharge from League.

Bearing Military Armament - The action of wearing Chainshirt or Heavier, Non-Accord, without authorization of al Legate, Minor Charge. The action of wielding a weapon, as a Non-janissary, without authorization of a Legate, Serious Charge.

Voiced Negligence - The act of the Voiced participating in unvoicely Actions. Minor: Excessive disruptions of Assembly or travel into The Creep. Serious: Owning property within the Tablet, Creep, or Non-Baz'eel Foreign Settlement. Capital: A proven track record and noted pattern of refusing to engage in Civil Procedure as Voiced aside from election profiteering.

Consumption of Prohibited Material - Minor: Possessing or espousing the works of notable charlatan and dissident Fornato.

Illegal Possession of Trophy - The criminal act of stripping upon the field of battle amidst active conflict, or knowingly concealing prize, secured from the villainous champion and chosen heroes of the Monstrous, malicious, or craven. Charge - Capital.

Economic Sabotage - The criminal act of knowingly undercutting established market potion rates absent of just cause, agreed contract for reduced cost, or as debt for service rendered. Charge - Serious.

Election Tampering - An active ban upon the act of raising a Voiced of Ephia's Well during time of Primary or Election, unless one is an arriving Citizen of Baz'eel. Charge: Capital.
[close]
#19
Correspondence / Akna: Boardwork Law
February 24, 2024, 04:56:01 AM
Legate,

As we had taken to discussing so much legal revision tonight, as I prepared for my evening prayers I was left with a passing thought.

What if we were to codify the mercenary practices, as a means to incentivize more seeking the Voiced status?

QuoteVoiced Oblige

Per their status, donation, and dedication to Ephia's Well the Voiced are hereby granted TWO rolls in disputes over Boardwork spoils. Minor.

Minor: Voiceless who oppose such shall be guilty of Breach of Voiced Oblige.

Undoubtedly many of the Krak de Rose and others who eschew voice, will flock eagerly at the chance of future profits.

Honored Waterbearer Gausim al-Marain
The Great Temple of Baz'eel
Legate of the First Seat.
#20
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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