Sunken Tower (IC)

[Mabn]

Dragon Friends

Spoiler: Sigma

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We are somewhat skeptical that the way to neutralize the Dragonblood Empire is to provide them with more dragonblood. Even if it ended with a sympathetic figure on their thrown the new ruler would be temporary whereas their refreshed stockpiles would be there to take for whomever kills the sympathizer for being insufficiently genocidal.

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Solaris
MAN: 3

Executive Council

Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Initiation): Education

"After some consideration, I'm going to vote Aye to confirming that Admissions and Education should be implemented by the Department of Initiation."

Spoiler: Executive Council Minutes (Public)

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Executive Council
1st Meeting

Date: [Turn 4] (OOC: Insert official date here.)

Participants:

• Department of Initiations: Illarius Weymond [Sigma]
• Department of History: Barus Turen [Lorekeepers]
• Department of World Affairs: Sir Rupert Grand [Society of WG]
• Department of Tower Affairs: Ruby Marshall [Energy Technicians]
• Department of Warmagic: Caldwin Buras [Internal Security]
• Seat of Power: Anise Fortescue [Uplift]
• Seat of Shadow: "Shadow Mask"
• Seat of Magitech: Artificer Madeline Olritz [Clockwork Cult]
• Seat of Ritual Magic: Alchemist Solaris Summerscent [Atelier Solaris]
• Seat of Fringe Magic: Dr. Passtrum [Hospitium]

Purpose:

To address the issues that are affecting the Tower at present. These are;

• Tower Military
• Tower Intelligence
• Tower Reputation
• Interdepartmental Issues
• Failure to Communicate I (% Chance for problems with Projects)
• Tower Security (Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, Disappearances, Unrest)
• Incompetence I (1st Department Trait is disabled)
• Personnel Shortage I (Factions no longer receive 1 Stat Growth)
• Energy Shortage I: (Faction's Mana Income = 0)
• Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment I

In addition, the position of the Dawn Lord should be discussed and voted on.

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Spoiler: Query: Availability of Tower resources for additional Tower Projects

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Response by Bursar Laurie: The Tower Council can fund two extra Projects at maximum.

Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That if it is a choice between funding extra Projects and funding the Departments, that the latter should be preferable.

Spoiler: Proposal by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That "Shadow Mask" (Shadow) confirms Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers Projects, to bolster the Tower's intelligence apparatus.

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Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That as Invisible Staff Rickton is not an Executive Council member, his proposal be confirmed and seconded.

• Confirmed by Grand (World Affairs).
• Seconded by Turen (History).

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That the Tower Council be queried about possibility of additional funding for executing aforementioned Projects, without infringing on prerogatives of Department Head (Shadow).

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): How would Project Leaders be selected for such Council-sponsored Projects?
• Response by Bursar Laurie: One of either Project may be funded, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Rejection of funding under this condition.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Magitech): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): States agreement with Artificer Olritz.

Aye: Turen (History)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

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Query by Sir Rupert Grand (World Affairs): Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by Bursar Laurie: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.

Query by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.

Aye: Grand (World Affairs)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Passtrum (Fringe)

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the Department of Initiation addresses Incompetence I and Personnel Shortage by supporting Admission and Education as Department Projects.

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the Proposal seems favorable.
Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Education seems favorable, but Culling should be favored over Admissions.
Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Admission seems favorable, but Anti-Infiltration should be favored over Education.
Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That Culling is not presently favorable.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.
• Comment by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That Turen disagrees with Olritz's statement.

Suggestion by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That the Tower fund an additional Project to put Anti-Infiltration in play.

• Comment by Bursar Laurie: That Tower Council can fund Anti-Infiltration, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That this condition is acceptable, although Inquest (Initiation) is a strong candidate to consider for the post.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Passtrum (Fringe), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Tower Law is clarified and made explicit to prevent law being taken into individual's hands and preserve Tower authority.

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Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That it is ideal to have an independent branch of the Council handling legal matters, under the auspices of the Lawspeaker.

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the following need to be clarified - Departments are under jurisdiction of Heads; disputes between Department Heads are under jurisdiction of the Lawspeaker and the Executive Council; that there should be an outline for acceptable levels of reprisal for all Departments to follow.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That an interdepartmental security team is formed to combat the Leeches, Gobblers, Disappearances, and mend Interdepartmental Issues.

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Query by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the issues of formation of security force, expected level of contributions from each Department, and Project Leader needs to be determined.

• Addendum by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That the present safety mechanism is post-factum verification by the Tower, that individual Departments work with different interpretations of Tower Law, and that jurisdiction of inter-Department issues has yet to be resolved.

Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork): That Department of Warmagic should bear most of the responsibility for staffing and leading the force.

• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): Concurrence with Olritz's statement, and that this should be kept in mind when allocating resources.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.

Concern raised by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That it may not be prudent to focus on internal security, when external threats to the Tower are extant.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent disagrees with Turen's statement.
• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That Buras disagrees with Turen's statement.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That Index, Project Leader of Record Keeping, will resolve Failure to Communicate I with assistance of Department of History

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs is concentrating on Energy Efficiency, and as such is not able to contribute.

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Dr Passtrum (Hospitium): That Task Forces be set up to deal with Interdepartmental Issues and Failure to Communicate I, instead of Projects

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Suggestion by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Security Task Force, Communication Task Force and Interdepartmental Cooperation Task Force be set up to handle the respective issues. Departments are expected to contribute to STF (DES), CTF (CRE) and ICTF (POL) respectively.

• Query by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): How would these Task Forces be organised and directed?
• Suggestion by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That STF should also accept MAN contributions, to deal with Disappearances.

Aye: Passtrum (Fringe), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History)
Nay:

STF: -
CTF: Lorekeepers
ICTF: Hospitium, Sigma,

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That discussion and votes for the Lord-Protector Elections be carried out.

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That either Ray or Oritz will be their choice, as Cross seems too unstable.
Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That it is time for the Tower to liberate the Chained.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That more arguments should be heard on the suitability of each candidate.

• Addendum by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Concurrence with Shadow Mask's statement.

Orsitz: Buras (Warmagic)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation)
Cross: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That the strategy for dealing with Elemental Surge should be determined.

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Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That both Ray's and Cross' plans have their merits.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That it is unlikely that cooperating with Dragonblood Empire and Iron Lords would work out well.

Query by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Would it be possible to bind the elementals, or drain their energy for the Tower's use?

Orsitz: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Olritz (Magitech)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Passtrum (Fringe)
Cross: Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power), Weymond (Initiation)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Society of WG and Department of History will investigate the feasibility of recovering the Stormwatcher.

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Aye: -
Nay: -

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Proposals Effected

Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Stormwatcher Report

• Actions Taken: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday has provided the Stormwatcher Records, with sensitive information redacted and restricted to Executive Council.

Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Peace Directive (1 Turn)

Aye: Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History), Passturm (Fringe), Olritz (Magitech), Grand (World Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: -
Abstain: Mask (Shadow)

• Actions Taken: Peace Directive is Passed with immediate effect.

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Spoiler: Sigma

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That I can agree with. I'll do my part then, and I'll be expecting to see you do yours!

Spoiler: Dragon Friends

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So far? Well, I've found out that Dragon Essence is an ideal component for Reinforcement Rituals, which generally augments a target's strength or durability. Which makes sense, considering how it's usually utilized by the Dragonblood Imperials. However, it's also potent enough to power less compatible Rituals of any sort, making it a very flexible component on top of being powerful. Its strength is also affected by the movements of the stars, which means it can also be ideal for certain Rituals at different times of the year. A truly potent substance this is, who knows what else it has the potential for?

I am arranging for means of further testing, which would hopefully provide even more detailed and useful results. If it pans out, one of these results may include an insight as to how the Dragonblood Empire actually gain their power from dragonblood; that's something we can certainly use, one way or the other. I'd need some more doses of Dragon Essence in order to finish the work, though. At least 2 more samples, ideally.

As for Marshall Cross... I like his plan for dealing with the Surge. That's as ideal a way to make lemonade out of lemons as I've ever seen. I cannot say I'm just as convinced that he's the man for Lord-Protector however. It feels like his aggressive stance towards the Dragonblood Empire is liable to leave the Dawn Empire and the Tower overextended, and vulnerable to the myriad other enemies knocking at our doors.

Spoiler: Internal Security

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So you're not convinced about Admiral Ray after all, mister Buras? Bummer. But I guess I'll deal.

So, how would you like me to support you in the Executive Council, moving forward. Also, would you be amenable to voting for my Tower Markets proposal?

[Murska]

Sigma - Dragon Friends

Spoiler

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Ah, but there is no need to give out a stockpile. Just a bit of the stuff, for the personal use of the candidate in question for a reinforcement ritual - the High Bloods can easily sense that. And we don't need to attempt circumventing the Empire's own defenses - I know a way to get in touch with the man in question using routes more friendly to us.

[Thelonius]

Executive Council

Tower Resources Query

Brusar Laurie: “Tower can fund Two Projects, but it would tie up all of our resources, which would affect additional funds, I may be able to provide to the Departments. The funding would not be decreased under any normal circumstances. It would create unnecessary troubles. Of course, there is a possibility of shifting resources between the Departments, which would allow beneficiaries to support more Department Projects and givers to support less, but I do not expect this would be viewed favorably.”

“As for the Personnel Shortage. Well, I guess it depends, on whether you take a short-term or long-term view on issues. In the end, I will approve Project Funding, if I believe, it is necessary for Tower’s prosperity. Or not, if they prove superfluous.”

Tower Markets Project

Shadow Mask: “I can see certain merit in preventing the Artefacts from falling into the wrong hands. Collectors of Woe seem to me, to be more suitable for the task. We should not forget that this rumors is about the Land of Madness. Can we be certain it does not infect this enclave? Collectors of Woe wouldn’t be blinded by greed and get to the bottom of it.”

Ansie Fortesure: “The mundanes are hoarding magical items, that they don’t know what to do with. Artefacts that we on other hand can find many uses for. Merchants of Wonder would be the best at it. ”

Lord Protect Election

Ruby Marshall: “I find myself in agreement with Councilman Buras. We need somebody we can rely on. There is no question in the character of Lord Oritz. I can’t say the same about the other candidates. My vote is for Lord Oritz.”

Candidates Bio

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Admiral Jenna Ray

Admiral Ray belongs to an impoverished noble house, that controlled vast fleets in the golden days of the Dawn Empire. The Shepherds have tested Ray, discovering a small gift for magic, but one they deemed to negligible to require her to join the Tower. Faced with choice of hope that her magic would bloom and seeking another path in life, she chose the latter.

Jenna Ray was among a small number of Dawn nobility to receive education in Mulden’s Maritime Academy. Her time in the Mulden was dedicated to study and she graduated with exemplary honors. When she returned home, Ray was quick to implement her knowledge, managing to create a small privateer fleet, for protection of imperial shipping and hunt for the Glen merchantmen, as relations between the nations at the time were deteriorating fast. Her successes have seen her small fleet grow, with old and battered ships, replaced by top of the line warcraft. Captain Ray’s reputation grew as well, with even her enemies speaking highly of her honor and skill. Eventually, the Dawn Assembly chose to appoint her official Admiral of the Empire, giving her command of the outdated and withered fleet. She was quick to insitute reforms and display a talent for administration, that has seen Dawn Empire gain naval power for the first time, since Age of Elves. However, Admiral Ray has also encountered resistance and complaints from the more traditionalist subordinates, who believe, that her views can be too radical, no doubt, influenced by her education in Mulden.

Admiral Ray lacks strong support in the Dawn Assembly, but she has support of less conservative, usually, younger lords, that may coalesce into a faction in the future. The nation’s merchants have also been favoring her, hoping for economic reforms, that would favor them.

Lord Luther Oritz

Lord Oritz belongs to a distinguished bloodline, that has ruled heartlands of the Dawn Empire, since time immemorial. Several of his close relatives were among the elites of of the Tower, however this meant, that during the Troubles their lives were lost.

Luther Oritz held post post in administration of family lands since youth and has supervised several successful projects in restoration of old magical enchantments to benefit the people. While some point to the considerable support his family enjoyed from the Tower, his work have been viewed favorably by the Mages, who worked with him. He late become representative in the Dawn Assembly, where he quickly rose to prominence in the ruling Dawn Faction. His influence was strong in shaping the Dawn Empire’s policies towards northern defences, investment in infrastructural projects and maintaining public order. He is without doubt a Tower loyalist, who has accommodated Tower’s interests to the best of Dawn Empire’s capabilities.

Lord Oritz is respected by nobility and popular among the common people, who view him as a just and affable ruler. His main support lies with the conservative Dawn Faction, that firmly believes in the Tower and old ways.

Adrian Cross

Adrian Cross comes from a moderately powerful noble family, whose scions have traditionally served in the army.

When Dragonblood Empire invaded Telamore, Dawn Empire chose to send a small amount of troops in aid, while putting some pressure on the Empire’s eastern borders. Adrian Cross was a junior officer, yet untested in battle, but during the great battles in the North, he has matured and earned many distinctions. Cross was presented with Telamorian Silver Sword Medal, one of the Kingdom’s highest honors for his actions during the Primval’s defence and slaying of bloodkin of the Emperor Vincent Redfang. He was among few to return home, as invasion claimed lives of most of his comrades.

The distinctions earned during northern campaign have put him on fast track to promotion. He has done excellent service, however during the so-called Summer Standoff, a minor conflict with Dragonblood Empire, his overeagerness in pushing against Dragonblood Empire as well as choice of extreme tactics was noted. His commanding officer opted to have him transferred to the border with Iron Lords, citing concern over personal feelings interfering with promising officer’s judgement. That has stalled Crosses carrier as he seemed to lack the same fervor against Iron Lords, as he did against Dragonblood Empire. His reappointment to the eastern border came as a surprise as it originated in political, rather than military circles. Despite initial reservations Cross quickly earned respect of the men assigned to him and advance in ranks. Still, the reputation of obsessive hatred against the Dragonblood Empire has stuck with him since then. He was generally favored by the Tower for his operations to liberate Chained Mages, but it never translated into firm support.

All reports about Adrian Cross indicate keen intelligence, great dedication to fighting Dragonblood Empire and a certain ruthless streak in his strategies. He has support of a number of Lords, who share his views about the Dragonblood Empire as well as wider base of support in the Imperialist faction, that hopes for restoration of the Dawn Empire’s glorious past.

Tower Law

Sir Rupert Grand: “Ah well, it sounds like you have some good ideas. All fine by me.”

Ruby Marshall: “I didn’t mind, when Tower Law was handled by Tower Council. Now we’ve got this mess to solve. Like we don’t have enough responsibilities.”

Anise Fortescue: “I like measures proposed by Councilman Weymond. I would recommend keeping the charge of incompetence as sufficient grounds for action. We need to weed out the weak and incapable or we risk to drown in mediocrity. I suspect many in the Tower simply consume the vital funds and falsify the reports to the Tower Council, so it would look like they are working. In this time of crisis, we can’t afford to support the parasites.”

Shadow Mask: “I agree with my counterpart in Power Department, regarding the incompetent. And I think it is time we’ve written new laws, in spirit of the guiding principles of the Tower, but free of the old baggage.”

Surge Stratagem

Sir Rupert Grand: “I admit, that respected Councilman Weymond’s reasoning has some merit. Sometimes diplomacy works best, when other players recognize you can back your talk by action. If we have an opportunity to liberate the oppressed from the tyranny of the Dragonblood Empire, then it’s only right for us to take it.” He snaps his fingers bringing up a shadow magic representation of the region. “I have received some education in strategy and warfare as part of my ambassadorial duties. As I see it, If High Marshal can secure this region.” Sir Grand draws on the map a line, leading northwards to the borders of the Telamore Kingdom, though not quite reaching them. “Our armies would be in the position to strike against northern cities of the Dragonblood Empire, that supply their fortifications with North. This could give Telamore an opening. The northerners have little love for the Dragonblood Empire, after that bloody invasion of theirs. I have been corresponding with several figures in the Telamorian society and despite the royalty’s youth, I believe the Kingdom can stands strong against the south. If we ally with them, we can keep Dragonblood Empire in check, by threatening to undermine their northern borders, which would allow Telamorian advance. This would keep them on defensive, until the issue with Elreath is resolved. Then, potentially, we stand to make a corridor to the North - which would be vital to restoration of Dawn Empire’s old mercantile dominance, that unfortunately was sapped since the Age of Elves. I would suggest, that such offensive move would still need world approval - so we are recognized as liberators. Perhaps Warmagic Department can do some demonic extermination? After the recent events in Telamore, it can help us secure the necessary alliances.”

Invisible Staff Rickton: “If I may present my opinion to the honored Council. The presented plan is sound. I believe that if Tower reinforces Dawn Empire’s troops, military victories are possible. However, the plan must remain a secret. If Dragonblood Empire were to suspect of it, they would be able to counter us.”

Ruby Marshall: “I’m hearing a lot of wishful thinking and complex machinations, that would need things to go just right. Well, what if Iron Lords chose to advance, while we are galloping to this adventure? Or things blow up in the North and Telamore implodes or diverts their attention to some of their other strategic concerns? How old is their ruler? Boy Kings sound romantic, but will Telamorian Monarchy rule well? The risks are unjustifiable. And, assuming for a moment, that this motion gains traction, I can’t help but notice, that the lands outlined for liberation have only strategic value - and almost no economic. Dawn Empire is starving with food prices rising daily - I don’t need to be in World Affairs to know that. Why not liberate the rich Eastern farmlands, that were taken from us by the Dragonblood Empire? They would provide the Empire with sustenance and we can expect local support there, that would allow us to hold the lands. Let’s face it, the move to the north would no doubt be costly and pay off only on the remote possibility of capturing land up to the North. ”

Task Forces

Sir Rupert Grand: “World Affairs can provide 3 POL, 2 MAN and 1 DES for the Task Forces.”
Ruby Marshal: “Tower Department can provide 3 CRE and 3 RES for the Task Forces.”
Shadow Mask: “Shadow Seat can provide 2 MAN and 1 DES for the Task Forces.”
Anise Fortescue: “Power Seat can provide 3 DES and 2 CRE for the Task Forces.”


Atelier Solaris

Exchanges [6]

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1. Referendum

Purifiers: “Subtle Weapons - the Tower needs teeth. But there is some merit in what Vault Guard proposes...”

Vault Guard: “It may be somewhat unorthodox, but why not appoint Merchants of Wonder to lead Tower Markets?”

Dagger Brotherhood: “Tower needs Subtle Weapons and we can serve the Tower with them.”

Grand Astrologist: “Well, Astrological Charts would be useful, wouldn’t they? I think I’m the only one qualified.”

Fleshcrafters: “Hmm… Astrological Charts sound good… Or maybe Blood Drives...”

2. Department Ward

Purifiers: Ney.
Vault Guard: Ney.
Dagger Brotherhood: Ney.
Grand Astrologist: Aye.
Fleshcrafters: Aye

3. Great Library Expedition

Purifiers: Hmm… Yes, I’m interested.
Vault Guard: I fear, we have not the resources this month.
Dagger Brotherhood: The current access is somewhat costly.
Grand Astrologist: I think I’ll stay out this month. No reason why.
Fleshcrafters: We do not trust the Cultists in charge of the Great Library. These Theists are up to no good. Are you certain, their favors do not come with knives?

Purifiers [3]

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“Transcendence Party would of course work to demonstrate we can handle Soulcraft and it would serve the Tower. I understand the necessity of the political consideration and would work in that direction, but sometimes progress requires unpopular decisions. I would say what is more important would be opinions of the Executive Council - of which you are a member.”

“As for situation with Mage Orsini, perhaps we should wait a bit. It could resolve itself.”

Merchants, Reclaimers, Lightbringers [3]

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Reclaimers: “We may consider it. I didn’t know you have felt so strongly about this subject. If we are to work together, we would require the same dedication from our allies as we would put ourselves. Though Merchants certainly have reputation for trade...”

Lightbringers: “I don’t know. It sounds like you just want support to get funding for your pet project and this “Market Party” suggestion is mostly to get us on board. Can we be certain, your intentions are serious?”

Merchants of Wonder: “Please, I’m certain Mage Summerscent can dispel your doubts with words or deeds.”

Vault Guard [3]

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It would be better for you to ask him, as Councilwoman. But, I’ve heard Chancellor used to be in the Hidden Eyes. Their sort is usually paranoid and very tight with information.

Eye of North, Vault Guard [3]

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Eye of North: As Ritual Control Project Leader, Master Warner certainly has necessary resources.
Vault Master Warner: True, but they are not infinite, and there are leads that I believe must be investigated first.

Inquest [3]

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“We suspect, that Waker’s provision of their vote to Sigma indicates good relations between the two. If you can have Sigma authorize investigation, then of course, it’s another matter.”

Sigma

Thinmage [4]

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“Yeah. I know I’m beat, so I won’t make a fuss.”

Shadow Mask [8]

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“That sounds awful. As soon as you catch these miscreants, report them to me. The Shadow Department would deal with them with all due justice.”

Clockwork Cult

Arsenal Master [2]

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“Defective parts must be fixed or replaced for the machine to function properly. The issue of the Tower Minds Project can be addressed without causing negative effect on the rest of the system.”

Lightning Mage [2]

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“Excellent. Consider yourself protected.”

Energy Technicians [2]

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“Well, with our Projects and Mana Survey, we should have enough Mana soon enough. Frankly, Tower is lucky to have both of us in charge. I expect that on our end, all problems would be solved soon enough. Well, once the Project Leaders, all competent, I assure you, prepare their reports, we’ll see what can be done specifically.”

Theists [PM]

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Demiurge

Chaos Principle: “Well, we have faith in the benevolence of the Demiurge. The perfection of the design will bring the goodness of it.”

Hallow Mages: “We lean more towards your interpretation, Clockwork Maestro. Though as much of evil comes from failings and imperfections, one could expect that a being like Demiurge would not be wasteful or arbitrary with its machinery.”

Descend XIV: “Our objectives do not include understanding of the Demiurge’s nature, as we understand, such thing may be impossible.”

Other

Chaos Principle: “Perhaps. I’m merely concerned, that we may be caught into the same pitfalls as the Tower.

Internal Security

Supreme Chancellor Lihoday [10]

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“I will inform the Council Guard of your visit. I can’t say that the recent events regarding Warmagic Department left me with good impression, but I’m willing to talk in light of your work in keeping peace during the Trouble’s aftermath and your restraint in the Soul Alchemist’s matter.”

Lorekeepers

Society of WG [PM]

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“I don’t know, who Deleo is. Probably a chained Mage or a minor noble. We will need cooperation of Hospitium for the plan with Shylla to work. Can you secure it?”

Shadow Teatime [PM]

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Zerrado answers with dull, metallic voice. “Shadow Whispers and Shadow Court. Your reasoning matches the Shadow Mask. If Department of Rituals had Subtle Weapons it could have helped, but they seem unlikely to pick it.”

Isa shrugs. “I’m glad they aren’t doing it. Ritual Department is creepy.” She does not elaborate.

Ernesto scribbles something in his book and speaks, without raising his eyes. “It would be important to watch the Shadow Court. They are an excellent source of information on power players. Trick is getting it out of them of course.”

Zerrado grunts in agreement. “The more of us are in positions of power, the better. That Enclave can hold much treasures in store.”

Isa sounds less impressed. “It’s a bitch to travel there. Mistress says, Shadow Paths are twisted and things live there. Not going to be walk in the part. What forces can you marshall?”

Zerrado nods. “Aye. Agenda. That would be Tower Council. What are your thoughts on it?”

Admiral Jenna Ray [11]

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“We face both outside pressure and internal collapse. Empires die from failed economy as much as they fall from wars. Dawn Empire needs quick and decisive reforms to regain its strength. I’m prepared to accomplish them. I will also rebuild our naval power and with alliance with Mulden, we would be able to stop Glen and Yan. The fleet will grant us mobility to quickly address threats on our borders and would be an important advantage against Dragonblood Empire, that lacks naval capability. Our position
Is of great strategic advantage - we are in the center of the world and we must make Dragonblood Empire it’s heart. For too long we have taken it as weakness, walling ourselves in, when we need to build connections.”

High Marshal Cross [11]

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“There is one great threat to Dawn Empire - and that is Dragonblood Empire. The snakes are cunning and devious - but we can beat them on the battlefield, as long as we hold initiative. I can win this war, liberate our lands from the Dragonblood Empire and conquer it. With it’s resources the Dawn Empire will be reborn. As for other threats. I believe Iron has long rusted - the Iron Lords simply don’t hold the same power, as they did in the past, their decline mirroring our own. They are buried deep, like ticks, very difficult to dislodge, but I do not believe, they have strength to invade us - the people of Dawn Empire believe in magic, not iron. The Glen/Yan are kraken, that is strong in water, but loses strength on land, as their southern campaign has shown. They may take our ports at best, but we’ll crush them, when they go inland and occupation will sap their strength. Once our battle hardened Legions return from east we’ll expel them. Besides, I doubt Mulden would stay neutral - they will have to support us or risk to be next.“

Warders [11]

Spoiler

Show

“Their capabilities are inferior to ours. They rely on Grace and have some dedicated units to fight demons, but they are neither strong, nor numerous.”

[Nemesis67]

Lorekeepers

Shadow Teatime (PM)

Spoiler

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"Wonderful.

Marshalling forces... We intend to lean on the Heralds for travel

I believe that the Tower Council at this point is basically a single individual. I can't imagine Bursar Laurie standing up to the Supreme Chancellor. As for how I feel about him... I have no issue with there being a single Chancellor position, provided they do not make it more difficult to run this Tower. Lihodey's background in the Hidden Eye makes him more predisposed to our view than others. I don't see a benefit to opposing him with the current state of the world and Tower. So long as he doesn't hinder our efforts, then there are more pressing matters.

If you mean the Tower Council itself and not the individuals that make it up... I believe it is necessary. Each Department Head can run their domains, but when it comes to weaving those together into a coherent grand strategy, there needs to be some individuals who know everything going on. Pure democracy of the Executive Council seems dangerous as every Department has their secrets that they wouldn't want to share, which means actions are taken without the whole picture. That is exactly what we're trying to avoid, with the Projects we've been pursuing.

So a Council is needed. Mages who outrank Department Heads and can manage affairs across the breadth of the Tower. Admittedly, negotiations between like-minded Heads can achieve the same purpose, but I fear that is not something sustainable on its own. Or if Heads are at odds, for whatever reasons.

As previously discussed, I have my eye on Lawspeaker. The circumstances are ripe for an election, condemning the ill-fated arrest attempt and citing the need for a higher legal authority. As a concession to Department-right activists, they can handle disputes within their own areas, but interdepartmental concerns would have to go the Lawspeaker. Since that alleviates a lot of the responsibilities, I intend to run the position as the Tower Spymaster, receiving the aggregate of Political Intelligence, Military Intelligence, Shadow Whispers, Shadow Court, X-Magic, and Dragonwatch, if chosen. And making decisions based on that information, of course, by cooperating with Shadow, World Affairs, and others when it seems appropriate."

Hospitium (11)

Spoiler

Show

Would you be willing to attempt to heal Shylla the Wyvern?

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Solaris
MAN: 3

Executive Council

Tower Resources

"You have my thanks, Bursar."

"In that case, I presume the question is whether we want to tap into future growth, in order to fulfill immediate needs. Personally, I'm of the opinion that the rewards of a well-managed investment in Tower Projects would be worth risking future funding for. The gains we could achieve from such successful Tower Projects could potentially exceed the funding the Bursar could otherwise allocate in the future, if we just leave it sitting there."

Tower Markets Project

"Ah. Well mister Mask, I am sure that the Collectors of Woe are indeed as capable at their work, as you attest. However, if they have any expertise in mercantile dealings, I for one have certainly not heard about it. And as the job of managing the Tower Markets would necessarily require such expertise, it would mean that the Merchants of Wonder - who does have a mercantile track record - would be better suited to the task, in my opinion."

"However, I do see where you're coming from mister Mask, and I do agree that necessary precautions should be taken where they are called for. Therefore, part of my plan in managing the Tower Markets is this; where trading with parties external to the Tower involves artefacts that fall under the expertise of certain Departments, the Tower Markets will involve the relevant parties in these respective dealings. So taking the Adori enclave as an example, I will ask the Collectors of Woe whether they would be interested, and I will also consult with mister Mask yourself as to whether you would recommend any other Hall in your Seat be involved as well. I would consult with Artificer Olritz of the same, as well."

"If there are any trade negotiations that involve artefacts of Power, I would involve the Merchants of Wonder, and any other Halls that miss Fortescue would recommend. If it involves potential weapons of war, any that mister Buras would put forward. Esoteric artefacts, any that Dr Passtrum would propose. Artefacts of historical value, any that mister Turen would endorse. And so on, and so forth."

"After all, I do not propose Tower Markets as a Tower Project, simply for the benefit of a few. I wish for the Tower Markets to benefit all and sundry in the Tower, all the way up to the Tower Council itself."

Tower Law

"I think there may be some merit in mister Mask's suggestion. At the very least, we should review Tower Law as it currently stands, and determine what's worth keeping or otherwise. After all, I would like to understand the why behind each section of the Tower Law at least."

Task Forces

"May I clarify if contributions to the Task Forces should be made on a [Turn-by-Turn] basis? Or whether contributions should be Invested in these Task Forces, up until as and when the Task Forces have accomplished their mission and are disbanded?"

To Ruby Marshall: "Erm, miss Marshall? Do you have some means in mind for the Task Forces to make use of your RES contributions?"

Spoiler: Executive Council Minutes (Public)

Show

Executive Council
1st Meeting

Date: [Turn 4] (OOC: Insert official date here.)

Participants:

• Department of Initiations: Illarius Weymond [Sigma]
• Department of History: Barus Turen [Lorekeepers]
• Department of World Affairs: Sir Rupert Grand [Society of WG]
• Department of Tower Affairs: Ruby Marshall [Energy Technicians]
• Department of Warmagic: Caldwin Buras [Internal Security]
• Seat of Power: Anise Fortescue [Uplift]
• Seat of Shadow: "Shadow Mask"
• Seat of Magitech: Artificer Madeline Olritz [Clockwork Cult]
• Seat of Ritual Magic: Alchemist Solaris Summerscent [Atelier Solaris]
• Seat of Fringe Magic: Dr. Passtrum [Hospitium]

Purpose:

To address the issues that are affecting the Tower at present. These are;

• Tower Military
• Tower Intelligence
• Tower Reputation
• Interdepartmental Issues
• Failure to Communicate I (% Chance for problems with Projects)
• Tower Security (Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, Disappearances, Unrest)
• Incompetence I (1st Department Trait is disabled)
• Personnel Shortage I (Factions no longer receive 1 Stat Growth)
• Energy Shortage I: (Faction's Mana Income = 0)
• Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment I

In addition, the position of the Dawn Lord should be discussed and voted on.

---

Spoiler: Query: Availability of Tower resources for additional Tower Projects

Show

Response by Bursar Laurie: The Tower Council can fund two extra Projects at maximum.

Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That if it is a choice between funding extra Projects and funding the Departments, that the latter should be preferable.

Response by Bursar Laurie: That funding Tower Projects would not affect present funding of Departments, but may have an effect on future funding increases.

Spoiler: Proposal by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That "Shadow Mask" (Shadow) confirms Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers Projects, to bolster the Tower's intelligence apparatus.

Show

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That as Invisible Staff Rickton is not an Executive Council member, his proposal be confirmed and seconded.

• Confirmed by Grand (World Affairs).
• Seconded by Turen (History).

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That the Tower Council be queried about possibility of additional funding for executing aforementioned Projects, without infringing on prerogatives of Department Head (Shadow).

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): How would Project Leaders be selected for such Council-sponsored Projects?
• Response by Bursar Laurie: One of either Project may be funded, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Rejection of funding under this condition.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Magitech): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): States agreement with Artificer Olritz.

Aye: Turen (History)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

Show

Query by Sir Rupert Grand (World Affairs): Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by Bursar Laurie: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.

Query by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Collectors of Woe would be more suitable, at least for the case of the Adori enclave.
• Response by Anise Fortescue (Power): That Merchants of Wonder would be more suitable for retrieving artefacts from mundane hands.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets will actively work with Halls in any Department who have a stake in certain trade negotiations.

Aye: Grand (World Affairs)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Passtrum (Fringe)

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the Department of Initiation addresses Incompetence I and Personnel Shortage by supporting Admission and Education as Department Projects.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the Proposal seems favorable.
Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Education seems favorable, but Culling should be favored over Admissions.
Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Admission seems favorable, but Anti-Infiltration should be favored over Education.
Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That Culling is not presently favorable.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.
• Comment by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That Turen disagrees with Olritz's statement.

Suggestion by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That the Tower fund an additional Project to put Anti-Infiltration in play.

• Comment by Bursar Laurie: That Tower Council can fund Anti-Infiltration, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That this condition is acceptable, although Inquest (Initiation) is a strong candidate to consider for the post.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Passtrum (Fringe), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Tower Law is clarified and made explicit to prevent law being taken into individual's hands and preserve Tower authority.

Show

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That it is ideal to have an independent branch of the Council handling legal matters, under the auspices of the Lawspeaker.

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the following need to be clarified - Departments are under jurisdiction of Heads; disputes between Department Heads are under jurisdiction of the Lawspeaker and the Executive Council; that there should be an outline for acceptable levels of reprisal for all Departments to follow.

• Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Weymond's statements.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the current arrangement of Tower Law being handled by Tower Council is preferable.
• Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): Concurrence with Weymond's statements, and recommendation that charges of incompetence be retained as sufficient grounds for action.
• Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Concurrence with Fortescue's statement, and recommendation that new Tower Laws be drawn up.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Partial concurrence with Mask's statement, and recommendation that present Tower Law be reviewed at the very least.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That an interdepartmental security team is formed to combat the Leeches, Gobblers, Disappearances, and mend Interdepartmental Issues.

Show

Query by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the issues of formation of security force, expected level of contributions from each Department, and Project Leader needs to be determined.

• Addendum by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That the present safety mechanism is post-factum verification by the Tower, that individual Departments work with different interpretations of Tower Law, and that jurisdiction of inter-Department issues has yet to be resolved.

Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork): That Department of Warmagic should bear most of the responsibility for staffing and leading the force.

• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): Concurrence with Olritz's statement, and that this should be kept in mind when allocating resources.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.

Concern raised by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That it may not be prudent to focus on internal security, when external threats to the Tower are extant.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent disagrees with Turen's statement.
• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That Buras disagrees with Turen's statement.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That Index, Project Leader of Record Keeping, will resolve Failure to Communicate I with assistance of Department of History

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs is concentrating on Energy Efficiency, and as such is not able to contribute.

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Dr Passtrum (Hospitium): That Task Forces be set up to deal with Interdepartmental Issues and Failure to Communicate I, instead of Projects

Show

Suggestion by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Security Task Force, Communication Task Force and Interdepartmental Cooperation Task Force be set up to handle the respective issues. Departments are expected to contribute to STF (DES), CTF (CRE) and ICTF (POL) respectively.

• Query by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): How would these Task Forces be organised and directed?
• Suggestion by Baris Turen (Lorekeepers): That STF should also accept MAN contributions, to deal with Disappearances.
• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Whether contributions should be Invested, or on a Turn by Turn basis.

Aye: Passtrum (Fringe), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Grand (World Affairs), Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power)
Nay:

STF: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES)
CTF: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (?)
ICTF: World Affairs (3 POL), Fringe (?), Initiation (?)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That discussion and votes for the Lord-Protector Elections be carried out.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That either Ray or Oritz will be their choice, as Cross seems too unstable.
Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That it is time for the Tower to liberate the Chained.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That more arguments should be heard on the suitability of each candidate.

• Addendum by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Concurrence with Shadow Mask's statement.

Orsitz: Buras (Warmagic), Marshall (Tower Affairs)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation)
Cross: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That the strategy for dealing with Elemental Surge should be determined.

Show

Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That both Ray's and Cross' plans have their merits.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That it is unlikely that cooperating with Dragonblood Empire and Iron Lords would work out well.

Query by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Would it be possible to bind the elementals, or drain their energy for the Tower's use?

Comment by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Cross's plan has the best chance of success.

• Addendum by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Cross can secure a northern region to threaten the Dragonblood Empire's northern cities, and secure alliance with Telamore at the same time. This would buy time to resolve the Elreath situation, and demon extermination should be carried out to secure world approval.
• Comment by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That Grand's plan is sound, but should be kept a secret from Dragonblood Empire.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Grand's plan is too complex, and would leave the Tower in a vulnerable position.

Orsitz: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Olritz (Magitech)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Passtrum (Fringe)
Cross: Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power), Weymond (Initiation)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Society of WG and Department of History will investigate the feasibility of recovering the Stormwatcher.

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

---

Proposals Effected

Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Stormwatcher Report

• Actions Taken: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday has provided the Stormwatcher Records, with sensitive information redacted and restricted to Executive Council.

Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Peace Directive (1 Turn)

Aye: Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History), Passturm (Fringe), Olritz (Magitech), Grand (World Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: -
Abstain: Mask (Shadow)

• Actions Taken: Peace Directive is Passed with immediate effect.

---

Spoiler: Exchange (6)

Show

Issues

1. Project Referendum
   
   "Okay. I'm going to count this as 1 Aye for Subtle Weapons, with 1 nomination for Dagger Brotherhood as Project Leader. Dagger Brotherhood, can you specify which [VIP] of yours is to hold the position in an official capacity?"
   
   "And 1 Aye for Tower Markets, with 1 nomination for Merchants of Wonder as Project Leader. Unorthodox perhaps, but not unprecedented, as the Seat of Power has demonstrated with designating Blood Binder as Project Leader of Elemental Hosts. And truthfully, there's some merit to it."
   
   "Finally, 1 Aye for Astrological Charts, with 1 nomination for the Grand Astrologist as Project Leader. Naturally."
   
   "Purifiers, please lock down either Subtle Weapons or Tower Markets as your choice. The same goes for Fleshcrafters, except for Astrological Charts or Blood Drives."
   
   
2. Department Ward
   
   "So that's 2 Ayes and 3 Nays. Alright, I declare this motion failed. Let's move on."
   
   
3. Great Tower Library Expedition
   
   Dagger Brotherhood: "Costly perhaps, but necessary. The 1 CRE is to help offset the costs of the deal, and the 2 RES is to be pooled into a collective RES for actually conducting the research in the Library itself. Thus what I meant, when I said the more participants the better. And truthfully, I think it's a pretty reasonable price."
   
   Fleshcrafters: "Yes, I'm certain. Not least because they owe me a favor, on top of the deal. As long as we are mutually useful to each other, I do not believe they would go out of their way to harm us. And besides, the deal is a temporary one for now anyway; they have an interest in making it a permanent one, and so are not likely to jeopardize their chances by screwing us over."
   
   
4. Task Forces
   
   "Alright, since we're going to pass on putting up a Department Ward, we're going to have to fall back on more conventional ways of ensuring the security of our Department. As you may know, the Executive Council is currently debating setting up Task Forces to deal with the issues that are presently plaguing the Tower."
   
   "May I have a show of hands, for those who would be willing to contribute to the Task Forces? We are looking for DES, MAN, CRE and POL here!"

Spoiler: Purifiers

Show

That is true, and what you mention about the Executive Council is likely true as well. However, if you're asking me to canvass them on your behalf... now, I'm pretty much neutral on this matter. I said I won't go out of my way to obstruct your Party's efforts unduly, but neither am I especially inclined to speak up in your Party's favor. But you know, you do have miss Fortescue for that, don't you? She is on the Council too, after all.

Now, regarding mister Orsini... mister Angelo, I'm going to be blunt here. As you're aware, mister Orsini has, in the past, demonstrated a certain impulsiveness and propensity towards violence that has brought some measure of disrepute down on our Seat. That his actions have left him open and vulnerable to reprisal has done him no favors, as well. Thus, even should his involuntary exile be resolved, and he be able to return to our Seat without inviting a crackdown upon his head... I would not trust him with a fig leaf, mister Angelo. Much less a Hall Project. Should he return to re-assume control over his Hall, that would actually amount to a strike against my willingness to authorize any advancement of his Hall Project beyond Grey level.

That is, unless I get any... reassurances, that his tendency to resort to rash and violent actions can be reined in reliably.

Spoiler: Merchants, Reclaimers, Lightbringers

Show

Reclaimers: "Of course, this would require an equal amount of dedication from each of us to make it work. I would expect nothing less."

"And speaking of the Merchants' dedication to trade, I'm sure you noticed how helpful it could be, if we were to establish ties with the Adori enclave? It would be a great boon to the cause of your Hall, I'm sure. You really should talk to your Department Head about that, I think."

Lightbringers: "Now, if I wasn't serious about my intentions, why would I be working so hard to get my proposal accepted in the Executive Council, as doubtless you would have noticed? Much less, why would I gone so far as to reach out to you, if I wasn't serious about it?"

"I truly believe that establishing economic ties both internally and externally, can only benefit the Tower as a whole. Not least because it would greatly complement the Tower's diplomatic ties with other nations, and improve its public image in the world as a whole. For example, if we work on building trade ties with Telamore as a counterweight to the Elvish Kingdom's efforts, would that not help us in the diplomatic arena against the Elves as well? If we build trade ties with the Republic of Mulden, would that not pave the way for an alliance against the Red Continent? If we begin trading with the Malvoc Consortium, would that not advance our interests in the South, while pushing out the Church of the Rose?"

"Diplomatic and economic ties have a way of going hand in hand, after all. I'm sure you can see how it can be of great benefit to your own cause."

Spoiler: Vault Guard

Show

Alright, I'll do so then. Fingers crossed.

Spoiler: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday

Show

Hey there, Supreme Chancellor! Hope you're not too busy these days!

So, I've been facing something of a minor issue in my Department. Specifically, it has to do with the operation of the Ritual Vault, and it has occurred to me that there's a possibility that some of the senior Mages involved in the weakening of the Backlash may have been in charge of the Vault prior. If there are any, and if any of their records are in the Council Archives, I could make use of it to resolve my small issue quite cleanly. So, may I pretty please enquire as to whether you do possess them?

Spoiler: Eye of the North, Ritual Guard

Show

Well, I must admit that I have little more than a passing interest in this subject, and I was mostly networking to get you two together on the same page. So, I'll leave it to you two to thrash out any negotiations or deals?

Spoiler: Inquest

Show

Actually the way I see it, the Wakers may have voted for Sigma because they were spooked by your actions, going around and conducting lightning-quick investigations out of nowhere. No wonder they'd run in the opposite direction, shacking up with Sigma hoping they'll get some protection.

Why don't you try asking Sigma to authorize it yourself? There's a chance you just might be pleasantly surprised. Of course, there's a Peace Directive in effect at the moment, so you may want to hold your horses for a better time.

[HerbieRAI]

Hospitium

To the dragon friends (man 2)

Spoiler

Show

I agree the dragonblood empire is a large external threat, if not the largest, but I think building some ties with them would be our best method to get them to turnaway from their brutish nature

To the lorekeepers (man 2)

Spoiler

Show

I am willing to help, but I would not travel to the dragonblood empire without heavy guard.

to fringe dept (man 2)

Spoiler

Show

Would any of you be able to spare resources for some task forces to increase security, fix the communication problems, and help combat the divisions among the departments?

[Thelonius]

Executive Council

Tower Markets

Shadow Mask: “Well, the issue remains, whether to request Tower Council’s funding for Tower Markets project. I’m not yet convinced. For now my Vote is Ney.”

Anise Fortescue: “I’ll vote Aye, if Eye of North is replaced as Project Assistants. They are competent in other areas, but for this they are simply not a good fit.”

Ruby Marshall: “I’m in favor of prudent investments. My vote is Nay.”

Sir Rupert Grand: “I’ll vote Aye, if we put Conquistadors as Project Assistant. South is all about trade and it’s accessible. We don’t actually have any direct trade with North - it’s all done through Mulden’s merchant guilds.”

Task Forces

Sir Rupert Grand: “At this point I doubt, that any of us can secure permanent commitments from the Departments. Executive Council is still new and people are not used to our authority. I expect we may actually see reduction in contributions, unless we prove, that we can be relied to solve problems for the Tower.”

Ruby Marshall: “Sigh, that’s what I’ve got. Maybe something in the libraries could prove of use.”

Atelier Solaris

Exchange [6]

Spoiler

Show

Project

Purifiers: “Very well… Subtle Weapons, as Tower seems to need them more at the moment.”
Fleshcrafters: “Astrological Charts - since Blood Drives would be automatic defeat.”

Ward

Fleshcrafters: “Are we certain, we don’t need a Ward? Will these Task Forces of Executive Council really address the security issues?”

Great Library

Dagger Brotherhood: “Still… with current number of interested parties, we would prefer, if it was 2nd Access.”

Fleshcrafters: “Well, a temporary deal is okay, we’ll take part. But do you plan to give them leverage in our Department? It could be dangerous.”

Task Forces

Purifiers: “I can provide [1 POL].”
Dagger Brotherhood: “We shall supply [1 DES].”
Vault Guard: “I can provide [1 DES].”
Fleshcrafters: “We can provide [1 CRE], I suppose.”
Grand Astrologist: “I can contribute [2 CRE], but those Task Forces better do their job.”

Purifiers [3]

Spoiler

Show

“Mage Summerscent, this talk of crackdowns is rather dangerous. I do not wish to consider military dictatorship to be Tower’s future and I’m confident, many would share such sentiment.”

“So what reassurances, do you have in mind?“

Reclaimers, Merchants, Lightbringers [3]

Spoiler

Show

Reclaimers: “We may raise that point with him.”

Lightbringers: “I fear, I’m not privy to the Executive Council sessions. Well… let’s say we are in provisionally. If Merchants of Wonder and your work on the Council demonstrate your dedication, we’ll commit fully.”

Supreme Chancellor Lihoday [10]

Spoiler

Show

“Such records may indeed be in the Archives. But your true question is of course, whether you can get access to them, isn’t it? At the moment every Mage at my disposal is needed and accessing the Archives would take their time. You have been involved in a number of incidents, that had impact on the Tower, not always good, though I would not claim any of your actions criminal or fully your responsibility. Still, I’m hesitant to provide a favor, when I’m uncertain, where it would lead.

Inquest [3]

Spoiler

Show

“So our vigilant work in rooting out traitors and failures was the problem? Anyway, if we ask this of Sigma, based only on your tip, they may bring this to Waker’s attention, binding them only close to their cause.”

Clockwork Cult

Reclaimers [2]

Spoiler

Show

"Have you considered the possibility of gaining magitech knoelwdge from that rumored Adori Enclave in the North? This may be an excellent opportunity for us to gain access to knew knowledge."

Lorekeepers

Shadow Teatime [PM]

Spoiler

Show

Zerrado: “Brusar may have a move, if he gets a major support from one or more political parties, enough to marshal support to evict Lihoday, before he fortifies. But it is unlikely.”

Ernesto adjusts his glasses nervously. “The Hidden Eyes background can be a boon or a bane. After all, if Supreme Chancellor were to decide to purge the Tower of those disloyal to him, he’d have all the right skills for it.”

A faint smile plays on Isa’s face as she listens to discussion about the Councils. “I wonder how long the unity and goodwill would last. In three months, they may be barking at each other like angry dogs.”

Zerrado: “So. How close are you to gaining the position of the Spymaster?”

Hospitium

Fringe Department [4]

Spoiler

Show

Chaos Principle: “We are searching for our own way to heal the Tower.”
Crusaders: “Hmm… Well, we can spare [1 DES].”
Hunter’s Lodge: “We’ll provide [1 DES] to drive those monsters down, where they belong.”
Twins: “We can provide [1 CRE].”
Believers: “Of course. We’ll provide [2 MAN].”
Warders: “Aye. We’ll protect the tower with [2 DES].”
Pentacle: “Ah, I’m afraid, can’t spare anything this month.”

[Murska]

Tower Markets

"The idea holds merit. I'll vote Aye, assuming that a good, workable plan for implementation is fleshed out."

Shadow Mask

Spoiler

Show

*eyeroll*

I'm sure you could dig up the root of the problem had you reason to. And we have many other things to focus on. Perhaps there is something that would incentivize you? After all, every Mage who ever joins the Tower passes through our halls, and what they end up learning, where they end up going and who they end up working for depends on many factors of chance.

Inquest [PM]

Spoiler

Show

(I'll explain the situation in the Council regarding the task forces and potentially having managed to negotiate Tower funding for the project of Anti-Infiltration. I let them know I'm pushing for them to be chosen as the Project Leader as the obvious choice, despite the strings that come with the purse. If they have DES to spare for the anti-monster taskforce, that'd be good.)

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Solaris
MAN: 3

Executive Council

Tower Markets

To Sir Rupert Grand: "That may be true, Sir Grand. However, I do have my reservations about appointing the Conquistadors as Project Assistants. Firstly, I understand that they are more focused on archaeology rather than trade, which is important work for sure, but not directly relevant to the scope of my Tower Markets proposal. Besides, the Merchants of Wonder already offer the mercantile expertise that is necessary, and I'm certain that they would deal with every region around the Tower, instead of focusing exclusively on the South like I presume the Conquistadors would."

"Which brings me to my second point; that they would focus on trade with the South to the exclusion of all else. No doubt that region would be a good place for the Tower to establish trade ties with, but such a parochial approach would only hurt our efforts in the rest of the world. Then again, as you've pointed out, you could say much the same with the Eye of the North, so..."

To Anise Fortescue: "After thinking it over, I'm inclined to agree with your assessment, miss Fortescue. So yes, I'll drop my nomination of Eye of the North as Project Assistant."

To Sir Rupert Grand: "For my third point, Sir Grand, the reason I nominated the Eye of the North to begin with is because I figured expertise in espionage and analysis would be necessary, if Tower Markets is to serve as an intelligence apparatus as well as economic. The Merchants of Wonder has the latter covered, which leaves the former. I don't believe the Conquistadors could fulfill that role, but..."

"...oh. Oh. I can be so dumb sometimes. Or maybe it's because I forgot to have my tea this morning. Probably both, in all likelihood."

To Invisible Staff Rickton: "Invisible Staff, if I were to nominate the Hidden Eye as Project Assistant alongside the Merchants of Wonder, would you be up for it?"

To Sir Rupert Grand: "I guess that would be my suggestion then, Sir Grand. How about the Hidden Eye, instead of the Eye of the North or the Conquistadors? The Hidden Eye would have the expertise I'm looking for to develop techniques for financial espionage, and they probably have the ecumenical approach that Tower Markets would call for. As Head of World Affairs, you'd probably know them better than I do."

To Shadow Mask: "Then if I may pose this question to you, mister Mask; should the Collectors of Woe in your Seat make contact with the Adori enclave with the task of securing their Shadow Artefacts from the wrong hands, would logistical and mercantile support from the Tower Markets not be worth Council funding to you? Would you rather not that the Mages of your Seat could count on such support, if only to avoid getting gouged by any unscupulous minds they might be dealing with?"

To Ruby Marshall and Artificer Olritz: "I would pose a similar question to you as well, miss Marshall and miss Olritz. In the interests of resolving the Energy Shortage situation we are currently facing, should the Mana Survey Corps find a Node located in foreign-owned territory, and access to it can be negotiated for rather than fought over. Would giving them the relevant support for pursuing that option effectively not be considered prudent? If we should come across opportunities to barter for access to additional sources of Mana to bolster the Tower's reserves, would that not be worth the investment?"

To Illarius Weymond: "But of course, mister Weymond. If the Tower Markets is funded, I will submit all plans for the Project to the Executive Council for review, as well as providing progress report for each and every plan, each [Turn]. I intend to have every Department in the Tower involved in some capacity, after all."

Task Forces

To Sir Rupert Grand: "True, I suppose. Well, I have the contributions from my Seat somewhere here in my notes, gimme a second..."

To Ruby Marshall: "Perhaps it could, assuming the library custodians could be convinced to cooperate. It occurs to me that the Tower Archives in your Department would be most likely to have the solutions we seek for complementing the Task Forces, miss Marshall. If there are any records of otherwise-forgotten defences built into the Tower, it would probably be there. Think you could get the Archivist to weigh in on it?"

Spoiler: Executive Council Minutes (Public)

Show

Executive Council
1st Meeting

Date: [Turn 4] (OOC: Insert official date here.)

Participants:

• Department of Initiations: Illarius Weymond [Sigma]
• Department of History: Barus Turen [Lorekeepers]
• Department of World Affairs: Sir Rupert Grand [Society of WG]
• Department of Tower Affairs: Ruby Marshall [Energy Technicians]
• Department of Warmagic: Caldwin Buras [Internal Security]
• Seat of Power: Anise Fortescue [Uplift]
• Seat of Shadow: "Shadow Mask"
• Seat of Magitech: Artificer Madeline Olritz [Clockwork Cult]
• Seat of Ritual Magic: Alchemist Solaris Summerscent [Atelier Solaris]
• Seat of Fringe Magic: Dr. Passtrum [Hospitium]

Purpose:

To address the issues that are affecting the Tower at present. These are;

• Tower Military
• Tower Intelligence
• Tower Reputation
• Interdepartmental Issues
• Failure to Communicate I (% Chance for problems with Projects)
• Tower Security (Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, Disappearances, Unrest)
• Incompetence I (1st Department Trait is disabled)
• Personnel Shortage I (Factions no longer receive 1 Stat Growth)
• Energy Shortage I: (Faction's Mana Income = 0)
• Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment I

In addition, the position of the Dawn Lord should be discussed and voted on.

---

Spoiler: Query: Availability of Tower resources for additional Tower Projects

Show

Response by Bursar Laurie: The Tower Council can fund two extra Projects at maximum.

Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That if it is a choice between funding extra Projects and funding the Departments, that the latter should be preferable.

Response by Bursar Laurie: That funding Tower Projects would not affect present funding of Departments, but may have an effect on future funding increases.

Spoiler: Proposal by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That "Shadow Mask" (Shadow) confirms Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers Projects, to bolster the Tower's intelligence apparatus.

Show

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That as Invisible Staff Rickton is not an Executive Council member, his proposal be confirmed and seconded.

• Confirmed by Grand (World Affairs).
• Seconded by Turen (History).

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That the Tower Council be queried about possibility of additional funding for executing aforementioned Projects, without infringing on prerogatives of Department Head (Shadow).

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): How would Project Leaders be selected for such Council-sponsored Projects?
• Response by Bursar Laurie: One of either Project may be funded, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Rejection of funding under this condition.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Magitech): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): States agreement with Artificer Olritz.

Aye: Turen (History)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

Show

Query by Sir Rupert Grand (World Affairs): Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by Bursar Laurie: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.

Query by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Eye of the North should not be nominated as Project Assistant, due to poor fit.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Agreement with Fortescue's statement, thus nomination for Eye of the North is dropped.
• Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Conquistadors be nominated as Project Assistant.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Conquistadors are not suitable, but Hidden Eye should be nominated instead.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Collectors of Woe would be more suitable, at least for the case of the Adori enclave.
• Response by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Merchants of Wonder would be more suitable for retrieving artefacts from mundane hands.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets will actively work with Halls in any Department who have a stake in certain trade negotiations.

Aye: Grand (World Affairs), Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Passtrum (Fringe), Mask (Shadow)

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the Department of Initiation addresses Incompetence I and Personnel Shortage by supporting Admission and Education as Department Projects.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the Proposal seems favorable.
Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Education seems favorable, but Culling should be favored over Admissions.
Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Admission seems favorable, but Anti-Infiltration should be favored over Education.
Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That Culling is not presently favorable.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That Turen disagrees with Olritz's statement.

Suggestion by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That the Tower fund an additional Project to put Anti-Infiltration in play.

• Comment by Bursar Laurie: That Tower Council can fund Anti-Infiltration, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That this condition is acceptable, although Inquest (Initiation) is a strong candidate to consider for the post.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Passtrum (Fringe), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Tower Law is clarified and made explicit to prevent law being taken into individual's hands and preserve Tower authority.

Show

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That it is ideal to have an independent branch of the Council handling legal matters, under the auspices of the Lawspeaker.

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the following need to be clarified - Departments are under jurisdiction of Heads; disputes between Department Heads are under jurisdiction of the Lawspeaker and the Executive Council; that there should be an outline for acceptable levels of reprisal for all Departments to follow.

• Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Weymond's statements.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the current arrangement of Tower Law being handled by Tower Council is preferable.
• Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): Concurrence with Weymond's statements, and recommendation that charges of incompetence be retained as sufficient grounds for action.
• Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Concurrence with Fortescue's statement, and recommendation that new Tower Laws be drawn up.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Partial concurrence with Mask's statement, and recommendation that present Tower Law be reviewed at the very least.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Dr Passtrum (Hospitium): That Task Forces be set up to deal with Interdepartmental Issues and Failure to Communicate I, instead of Projects

Show

Suggestion by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Security Task Force, Communication Task Force and Interdepartmental Cooperation Task Force be set up to handle the respective issues. Departments are expected to contribute to STF (DES), CTF (CRE) and ICTF (POL) respectively.

• Query by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): How would these Task Forces be organised and directed?
• Suggestion by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That STF should also accept MAN contributions, to deal with Disappearances.
• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Whether contributions should be Invested, or on a Turn by Turn basis.
• Response by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): It is not likely that permanent contributions could be secured in the short term.
• Suggestion by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That RES contributions could be used for sourcing possible solutions in the Tower's Libraries.
• Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the Tower Archives are the best source of information for Marshall's suggestion.

Aye: Passtrum (Fringe), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Grand (World Affairs), Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power)
Nay:

STF: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES)
CTF: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (?)
ICTF: World Affairs (3 POL), Fringe (?), Initiation (?)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That discussion and votes for the Lord-Protector Elections be carried out.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That either Ray or Oritz will be their choice, as Cross seems too unstable.
Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That it is time for the Tower to liberate the Chained.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That more arguments should be heard on the suitability of each candidate.

• Addendum by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Concurrence with Shadow Mask's statement.

Orsitz: Buras (Warmagic), Marshall (Tower Affairs)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation)
Cross: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That the strategy for dealing with Elemental Surge should be determined.

Show

Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That both Ray's and Cross' plans have their merits.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That it is unlikely that cooperating with Dragonblood Empire and Iron Lords would work out well.

Query by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Would it be possible to bind the elementals, or drain their energy for the Tower's use?

Comment by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Cross's plan has the best chance of success.

• Addendum by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Cross can secure a northern region to threaten the Dragonblood Empire's northern cities, and secure alliance with Telamore at the same time. This would buy time to resolve the Elreath situation, and demon extermination should be carried out to secure world approval.
• Comment by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That Grand's plan is sound, but should be kept a secret from Dragonblood Empire.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Grand's plan is too complex, and would leave the Tower in a vulnerable position.

Orsitz: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Olritz (Magitech)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Passtrum (Fringe)
Cross: Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power), Weymond (Initiation)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Society of WG and Department of History will investigate the feasibility of recovering the Stormwatcher.

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

---

Proposals Effected

Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Stormwatcher Report

• Actions Taken: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday has provided the Stormwatcher Records, with sensitive information redacted and restricted to Executive Council.

Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Peace Directive (1 Turn)

Aye: Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History), Passturm (Fringe), Olritz (Magitech), Grand (World Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: -
Abstain: Mask (Shadow)

• Actions Taken: Peace Directive is Passed with immediate effect.

Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): Resolution of Failure to Communicate I

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs is concentrating on Energy Efficiency, and as such is not able to contribute.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

Illarius Weymond (Sigma): Resolution of Tower Security and Interdepartmental Issues

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Query by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the issues of formation of security force, expected level of contributions from each Department, and Project Leader needs to be determined.

• Addendum by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That the present safety mechanism is post-factum verification by the Tower, that individual Departments work with different interpretations of Tower Law, and that jurisdiction of inter-Department issues has yet to be resolved.

Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork): That Department of Warmagic should bear most of the responsibility for staffing and leading the force.

• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): Concurrence with Olritz's statement, and that this should be kept in mind when allocating resources.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.

Concern raised by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That it may not be prudent to focus on internal security, when external threats to the Tower are extant.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent disagrees with Turen's statement.
• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That Buras disagrees with Turen's statement.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

---

Spoiler: Sigma

Show

Thanks, mister Weymond!

Would you be needing my votes for any of your other proposals?

---

Spoiler: Exchange (6)

Show

Project Referendum

"Alright, so that's 2 Ayes each for Subtle Weapons and Astrological Charts. Seems like we have a tie here."

"In that case, there's two ways we can go from here. Firstly, we can go for a second round of voting, where these two Projects are the only choices. Assuming that those who previously voted for either of these stand by their choices, this will give Vault Master Warner the deciding vote."

"Or, we could go straight to the tiebreaker. Which would give me the deciding vote."

"Which would all of you prefer?"

Department Ward

"The Task Forces are intended to pool resources from all over the Tower to resolve the Tower's issues, including security. As such, I'm fairly certain that with enough buy-in, they should be up to the task."

"But of course, reasonable doubt is a thing; which is why I brought up the prospect of a Department Ward to begin with. After all, if it is within our power to implement an additional layer of security for ourselves, why not at least consider it? Would any of you who voted Nay like to reconsider? I can hold off on making a pronouncement on this proposal until you've done so, if you'd like."

"Or we could adjust the proposal itself; it occurs to me that some of you who voted Nay, did so because you might have assume you were unable to contribute for one reason or another. So how about this; those who are capable of casting the Ritual will participate, and those unable can contribute in other ways. How's that sound?"

Great Tower Library Expedition

Dagger Brotherhood: "I could ask them about it, sure. If I do convince them to do so, I'll waive the 1 CRE requirement, naturally."

Fleshcrafters: "I do plan to give them Access to my Hall, yes. But only for a temporary period equivalent to the time they'll give us Access to the Great Tower Library. If there's any danger, it's probably limited... and if you're still concerned, well, perhaps there's something you could suggest to mitigate the risks? Or hurt them back in equal measure if they try any shenanigans, I'm not picky."

Task Forces

"So that's 2 DES, 3 CRE and 1 POL in total, great. Shall I lock this in? Or if you're all going to reconsider the Department Ward, maybe you'd like to reconsider this at the same time?"

Spoiler: Purifiers

Show

Neither would I, mister Angelo. But I fear I may not have any say in whether such would come to pass. In fact, there have been some in the Tower who mutter that it has already happened. But that's neither here nor there.

The fact of the matter is this; mister Orsini's demonstrated propensity towards rash behaviour is bound to bring consequences crashing down on his head sooner or later, even if I were to do my best to prevent it. And the fallout would not affect him alone; it would negatively impact the rest of our Department by association, and as Head, I simply cannot allow for even the slightest possibility of that to happen.

Therefore, if mister Orsini is rejoin our Seat as the chief of the Silver Masks and the Soul Alchemists - with all of the attendant privileges, including management of his Hall Project and eligibility for Project Leader if applicable - I will need some form of guarantee that he will curb his hitherto aggressive tendencies, and act with some degree of circumspection in the future.

Several vials of his blood, drawn from his body while witnessed personally by myself, should suffice.

Spoiler: Merchants of Wonder, Reclaimers, Lightbringers

Show

Reclaimers: "Please do. And do mention to miss Olritz how Tower Market support could be useful to that end. This is a rare opportunity for yourself and your Department; you'd need all the resources you can get for this venture."

Lightbringers: "Does Sir Grand not fill you in on what has been discussed in there? That's cold, you should really ask him about that. If not, I can always send you an edited version of the Minutes, if you'd like proof of my dedication."

Spoiler: Eldritch Collections Team

Show

Heya! So, about the prospect of our temporary mutual Access to each other's Territories... on second thought, could we make it an exchange of [2nd Activations] again, like the last time?

Spoiler: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday

Show

I understand, and I regret any disturbances that these incidents have wrought in the Tower, even if I ultimately had little say in how things played out. Nevertheless, I will do my best to keep such disruptions to a minimum from now on.

As for the specifics of my request, the issue is that that are certain Wards in my Department previously maintained by senior Mages from our Department, that have unfortunately passed on during the Troubles. As a result, the knowledge and means of unlocking these Wards have been lost to us since, and our efforts at circumventing them to access Department assets have yielded slow progress thus far.

It was my hypothesis that the senior Mages might have perished because they were part of the group who weakened the Backlash. If this is true, their records would likely be in the Council Archives, and said records may contain the information we need to restore access to the full assets of my Department.

Spoiler: Inquest

Show

That's true. Alright, I'll see what I can do there. In the meantime, sit tight; the Peace Directive means you'd better spend this time maintaining your tools for now, anyway.

[Mabn]

Dragon Friends

Spoiler: Altelier Solaris

Show

We may learn more of the Dragonblood empires techniques from other efforts in the region in which we are involved. Has your research so far led to a solid understanding of how the link between dragon essence and stellar movement operates?

Spoiler: Sigma

Show

That does seem more promising. We will allow you to access a working dosage.

Spoiler: Hospitium

Show

We do not share your optimism. While the Tower has ties with certain sympathetic elements in Empire society, they are not the majority and would likely see attempts to court their powers that be there as a betrayal.

[Nemesis67]

Lorekeepers

Tower Markets
"I would agree with some of my colleagues that I do not believe forensic accounting is needed, given the other Projects the Tower is maintaining. However, I do see merit in Tower Markets as a way of furthering our interests in the outside world. Trade can help fund allies, or at least enemies of our enemies."

Department of History (11)

Spoiler

Show

What would each of you be willing to contribute to fixing the Tower problems?

And what would each of you be willing to contribute to the various expeditions we've proposed?

Warders (11)

Spoiler

Show

Would you be willing to teach some basic demon-fighting techniques to the Church, if there was a benefit to the Tower?

Index, Hidden Eye (11)

Spoiler

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Index: “Ah. I believe that Master Turen doesn’t have cause for copy request. Please forward the report to us only.”

Hidden Eye: “Of course. We’ll send report to Index.”

As the Department Head of History, it is my task to ensure that all parties of our Department receive what they need to complete their function. The Fox's interrogation likely contains information pertaining to the Age of Magic and the Age of Elves, if not other eras. Therefore, the relevant parties should receive a copy to add to the Tower's collective understanding of ages past, and to leverage their own pre-existing knowledge to draw additional conclusions from it. As the Project Leader of Record Keeping and Master of Library Administration, it is your function to archive all information so that it is retained and preserved, not to evaluate the value or potential benefit of it, nor decide who should receive it.

Shadow Teatime (PM)

Spoiler

Show

"Three months is enough time to consolidate our own position and persist regardless of regime. That's our objective, at least.

And that depends. The Supreme Chancellor has offered an appointment to the position in exchange for a vote of confidence in the Executive Council. But I don't think that is the correct choice. That ties us too closely to him, and makes us simply a pawn. Which is acceptable, in that it means we'll get Tower Spymaster, but if Lyhoday is removed, we will be too. I think an election by the Executive Council gives more clout. But of course there's a chance of failure there.

Would we have Shadow Mask's vote?

Ah. And what way are you leaning with the Dawn Lord? I personally am inclined to support Ray. I think Cross would over extend us and open the Empire up to threats, and Oritz is an isolationist. While he'd secure the Empire, he wouldn't help our interests anywhere else in the world. Ray will help counter Glen's and Yan's alliance by building ties with Mulden, and is better suited for a more light touch in World Affairs. Diplomacy and trade can go a long ways, especially if we're watching and acting from the shadows."

Society of Worldly Gentlemen (PM)

Spoiler

Show

"Hospitium is on board, if they are escorted there safely. That is unfortunately not our area of expertise.

The Warders say our demon fighting expertise is superior to the Church, so that could be our in with the North."

Internal (GM)

Spoiler

Show

Tower Market
Power - Aye
Shadow - Nay
Ritual - Aye
Magitech - Nay
Fringe - Nay

History -
Initiation - Aye
Tower Affairs - Nay
World Affairs - Aye
Warmagic -

Dawn Lord
Oritz - Magitech, Warmagic
Ray - Ritual, Initiation, World Affairs, Fringe,
Cross - Power

Tower Affairs - Ray or Oritz
Undecided - Shadow

[ArcaneStomper]

Clockwork Cult

Executive Council

Lord Protector
Artificer Olritz: "I vote for Lord Oritz. He seems to have the solid background in good management that the Dawn Empire needs right now."

Surge Stratagem
Artificer Olritz: "I have heard several sound plans, and several counter arguments to them as well. Frankly I lack the military acumen to judge their merits. So I will Abstain from this vote."

Tower Law
Artificer Olritz: "I become a bit wary whenever people start talking about cutting out the chaff and tossing out the old baggage. I certainly agree that some parts of the Tower are inefficient. But no one has actually said what they consider those parts to be have they. I frankly expect that we all have different ideas of what parts of the Tower are unnecessary due to both personal opinion and actual differences in knowledge. Revising the laws may indeed by useful, but it should be a task undertaken with extreme care to ensure that we do not toss out something useful along with the detritus."

Tower Markets
Artificer Olritz: "The problem with that is that the hostile forces the mana survey corps encounter are usually not amiable to negotiation. We are not talking about other people here. Mana nodes are energy incarnate, and that energy attracts creatures of magic. Elementals, spirits, zombies, and all manner of other things. That is what their typical battlemage escorts face. It's true that the mana survey corps does require infrastructure and support from the Tower. But those are covered respectively by their monthly allocation of resources, and the Mana Survey Project. The first is what you are proposing to divert into your Tower Markets, and the second is already being funded by the Magitech Department."

"It's possible that there are nodes in regions that are diplomatically closed to us. But if they are closed to our survey mages, then how would your merchants enter them? I don't deny that it would be beneficial to barter for mana, that is one of the raw resources I think the Tower Markets would bring in. I simply do not think it is worth diverting resources from Tower Departments into special projects at this time."

To the Energy Technicians

Spoiler

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Excellent, we will monitor the reports from the mana survey, but so far things look promising.

To the Arsenal Master

Spoiler

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Very well. Your suggestion is sound. The best equipped party should be in charge of the project. However in the magitech department we work on logic. You will have to prove that you are in fact the best suited. And you will have to do so openly since your very contention is that the mindcrafters are using secrecy to hide their lack of progress. We will first give them an opportunity to debate their side with you. If niether side accepts the validity of the others argument, then we will organize an Experimental Trial before the Magitech Department to determine the details of the issue.

To the Mindcrafters

Spoiler

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We have received a challenge that you are not making sufficient progress on the Tower Minds project. Since the challenge was issued from an expert in that field we deem it worth addressing. Do you wish to debate the point with your challenger?

(OOC: I'm making up the finer points of Magitech Departmental procedure here. Basically I think that the magitech department takes it's research very seriously. If someone asserts that another person is a poor researcher, then they would have to prove their claims. Either in a debate privately or in a public trial before the magitech department. I think it would be some sort of cross between a magical duel and an experiment with both sides presenting their work in an effort to disprove the other.

After all the magitech department is full of mages with a competitive spirit. So they would want to show off their prowess. But at the same time they mostly, not counting the Lightning Mage and his battlemages, would want to do so through logic rather than violence. So I think there would be formalized procedures for competing researchers in the same way that the rest of the Tower has formalized procedures for regular mage duels.

If you don't think that would be the case, then please ignore my answers to the Arsenal Master and Mindcrafters. I will think of something else.)

To the Relcaimers

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"We have, but they are quite far away and located in an inhospitable region. We lack the battlemages to make that trek. Are you proposing a joint expedition."

To the Lorekeepers (PM)

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Thank you for this information. We will most certainly be interested in contributing to an expedition. So please keep us informed as to when it will be formed.

Theists (PM)

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We believe it is all part of the same thing. If we seek a greater understanding of the nature of the demiurge we will be able to see whether other parts are opposed to it. If we seek to understand the various races of the world and their magics, then we will discover they are other worldly, or by definition gain a greater understanding of the Great Device by dint of seeing their place in it.

The question is what we will be focusing on.

Magitech Department

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Artificer Olritz lays out the current proposal for task forces to address the tower issues. Since each department is supposed to contribute as Head of the Department she asks for volunteers to aid in the task forces.

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Solaris
MAN: 3

Executive Council

Tower Markets

Artificer Olritz: "Fair enough, although I'll note once again that the Bursar said that funding the Project won't affect present levels of resource allocation, only the rate of growth for future allocations. And if trade ties are established between the Tower and areas which are presently shutting us out diplomatically, this may in turn persuade them to open their doors; thus, my 'merchants' - as you term them - might well pave the way for your survey Mages to do their work."

"And raw resources like Mana aren't the only thing the Tower could stand to gain from Tower Markets, far from it. The Project can help us acquire assets that may be beyond our reach otherwise. To state just a couple of examples, lost Magitech from the Adori enclave in the North. Perhaps access to the Stormbreaker remnants, who knows what sort of Magitech went into that Livingship? Maybe even Elreath Magitech, if those Winged Crafts in the rumors are any indication."

"And that's just for your Department, miss Olritz. As Head of Magitech, would it not be in your interest to consider any means possible of securing new and lost knowledge in your field of speciality? And I haven't even gone into the ways that other Departments could benefit from the Tower Markets as yet, as I'm pretty certain could be the case."

"I would not press for it to receive funding to make it a Tower Project otherwise, if I didn't believe it could benefit the Tower as a whole far better than if the Departments were to simply keep said funding to themselves."

Barus Turen: "That's fair. I only brought up forensic accounting as a possibility, and it is true that it would be beyond the original scope of Tower Markets. We can certainly consider the viability of it in its original format as a Tower Project."

"And it's also true what mister Turen said, that trade can bolster our allies and further our interests in the wider world. Personally, I don't think he goes far enough; Tower Markets, by itself, can be instrumental to the extent of helping us make friends and influence people. Here's just a few examples I have in mind of how it can be achieved."

"First, the North. I've mentioned the Adori enclave several times by now, so I won't belabour the point. But more importantly, this could be our way in to Telamore; by offering trade ties with the Tower, we can offer an alternative to the Elvish Kingdom's overtures to them, and bring dissidents to this development such as Arch-Priest Madero to our side. In one move, we can greatly increase our chances of bringing Telamore back into our fold, and stymie the Elves at the same time."

"In the West, the Republic of Mulden is being battered by the coming Storms, the Warlock Pirates, and the unification of the Red Continent all at once. I surmise that they will be feeling under siege, and may well be desperate for a friend in need; they'd take our hand, if the Tower will extend it to them. We may never have a better opportunity to dictate terms most favourable to the Tower to them in such an alliance, in polite terms. In my own terms? Time to gouge this mark for all it's worth."

"Then there's the South. Like Sir Grand said, we could establish links with the Malvoc Consortium to build trade ties in the Southern cities, and offer an alternative to the Elreath outreach. And since Malvoc is already building ties with the Church of the Rose, we could use our own outreach to either stymie the Clovis Theocracy or as a way in to building ties with them in the North. Depends on our priorities, really."

"Last but not least, the East. Al-Makim speaks for itself really, but it's this Mysterious Pretender that has me intrigued. If the rumours are true and he turns out to be Telamorian nobility, then that's one more benefit to building friendlier ties to Telamore through trade. With a little cooperation and investment, we could greatly undermine a long-time enemy in the Dragonblood Empire."

"So many opportunities for the Tower all over the world, if we had the Tower Markets to take advantage of them. However, world events come and go all the time, which is why I'm pushing so hard; if we don't equip ourselves to exploit them immediately, these opportunities will slip from our grasp before long."

"So. Is all this worth a little funding, yet?"

Spoiler: Executive Council Minutes (Public)

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Executive Council
1st Meeting

Date: [Turn 4] (OOC: Insert official date here.)

Participants:

• Department of Initiations: Illarius Weymond [Sigma]
• Department of History: Barus Turen [Lorekeepers]
• Department of World Affairs: Sir Rupert Grand [Society of WG]
• Department of Tower Affairs: Ruby Marshall [Energy Technicians]
• Department of Warmagic: Caldwin Buras [Internal Security]
• Seat of Power: Anise Fortescue [Uplift]
• Seat of Shadow: "Shadow Mask"
• Seat of Magitech: Artificer Madeline Olritz [Clockwork Cult]
• Seat of Ritual Magic: Alchemist Solaris Summerscent [Atelier Solaris]
• Seat of Fringe Magic: Dr. Passtrum [Hospitium]

Purpose:

To address the issues that are affecting the Tower at present. These are;

• Tower Military
• Tower Intelligence
• Tower Reputation
• Interdepartmental Issues
• Failure to Communicate I (% Chance for problems with Projects)
• Tower Security (Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, Disappearances, Unrest)
• Incompetence I (1st Department Trait is disabled)
• Personnel Shortage I (Factions no longer receive 1 Stat Growth)
• Energy Shortage I: (Faction's Mana Income = 0)
• Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment I

In addition, the position of the Dawn Lord should be discussed and voted on.

---

Spoiler: Query: Availability of Tower resources for additional Tower Projects

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Response by Bursar Laurie: The Tower Council can fund two extra Projects at maximum.

Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That if it is a choice between funding extra Projects and funding the Departments, that the latter should be preferable.

Response by Bursar Laurie: That funding Tower Projects would not affect present funding of Departments, but may have an effect on future funding increases.

Spoiler: Proposal by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That "Shadow Mask" (Shadow) confirms Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers Projects, to bolster the Tower's intelligence apparatus.

Show

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That as Invisible Staff Rickton is not an Executive Council member, his proposal be confirmed and seconded.

• Confirmed by Grand (World Affairs).
• Seconded by Turen (History).

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That the Tower Council be queried about possibility of additional funding for executing aforementioned Projects, without infringing on prerogatives of Department Head (Shadow).

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): How would Project Leaders be selected for such Council-sponsored Projects?
• Response by Bursar Laurie: One of either Project may be funded, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Rejection of funding under this condition.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Magitech): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): States agreement with Artificer Olritz.

Aye: Turen (History)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

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Query by Sir Rupert Grand (World Affairs): Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by Bursar Laurie: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That expanding the Project to include forensic accounting may not be necessary, given other Projects being maintained by the Tower.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal can certainly be considered with the omission of the forensic accounting portion.

Query by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Eye of the North should not be nominated as Project Assistant, due to poor fit.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Agreement with Fortescue's statement, thus nomination for Eye of the North is dropped.
• Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Conquistadors be nominated as Project Assistant.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Conquistadors are not suitable, but Hidden Eye should be nominated instead.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.
• Follow-up by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That although it can be beneficial in acquiring raw resources for the Tower, the benefit is not large enough to justify the cost in Tower funding.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Reiteration of acquisition opportunities that Tower Markets can open up, especially in terms of Magitech artefacts.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That there is merit in maintaining markets as a way of furthering the Tower's interests in the outside world.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): A brief summary of diplomatic opportunities that can be exploited with Tower Markets.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Collectors of Woe would be more suitable, at least for the case of the Adori enclave.
• Response by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Merchants of Wonder would be more suitable for retrieving artefacts from mundane hands.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets will actively work with Halls in any Department who have a stake in certain trade negotiations.

Aye: Grand (World Affairs), Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Passtrum (Fringe), Mask (Shadow)

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the Department of Initiation addresses Incompetence I and Personnel Shortage by supporting Admission and Education as Department Projects.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the Proposal seems favorable.
Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Education seems favorable, but Culling should be favored over Admissions.
Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Admission seems favorable, but Anti-Infiltration should be favored over Education.
Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That Culling is not presently favorable.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That Turen disagrees with Olritz's statement.

Suggestion by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That the Tower fund an additional Project to put Anti-Infiltration in play.

• Comment by Bursar Laurie: That Tower Council can fund Anti-Infiltration, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That this condition is acceptable, although Inquest (Initiation) is a strong candidate to consider for the post.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Passtrum (Fringe), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Tower Law is clarified and made explicit to prevent law being taken into individual's hands and preserve Tower authority.

Show

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That it is ideal to have an independent branch of the Council handling legal matters, under the auspices of the Lawspeaker.

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the following need to be clarified - Departments are under jurisdiction of Heads; disputes between Department Heads are under jurisdiction of the Lawspeaker and the Executive Council; that there should be an outline for acceptable levels of reprisal for all Departments to follow.

• Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Weymond's statements.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the current arrangement of Tower Law being handled by Tower Council is preferable.
• Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): Concurrence with Weymond's statements, and recommendation that charges of incompetence be retained as sufficient grounds for action.
• Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Concurrence with Fortescue's statement, and recommendation that new Tower Laws be drawn up.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Partial concurrence with Mask's statement, and recommendation that present Tower Law be reviewed at the very least.
• Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That revision of Tower Law may be useful, but must be undertaken with extreme care to ensure useful portions are not s

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Dr Passtrum (Hospitium): That Task Forces be set up to deal with Interdepartmental Issues and Failure to Communicate I, instead of Projects

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Suggestion by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Security Task Force, Communication Task Force and Interdepartmental Cooperation Task Force be set up to handle the respective issues. Departments are expected to contribute to STF (DES), CTF (CRE) and ICTF (POL) respectively.

• Query by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): How would these Task Forces be organised and directed?
• Suggestion by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That STF should also accept MAN contributions, to deal with Disappearances.
• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Whether contributions should be Invested, or on a Turn by Turn basis.
• Response by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): It is not likely that permanent contributions could be secured in the short term.
• Suggestion by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That RES contributions could be used for sourcing possible solutions in the Tower's Libraries.
• Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the Tower Archives are the best source of information for Marshall's suggestion.

Aye: Passtrum (Fringe), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Grand (World Affairs), Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power)
Nay:

STF: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES)
CTF: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (?)
ICTF: World Affairs (3 POL), Fringe (?), Initiation (?)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That discussion and votes for the Lord-Protector Elections be carried out.

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That either Ray or Oritz will be their choice, as Cross seems too unstable.
Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That it is time for the Tower to liberate the Chained.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That more arguments should be heard on the suitability of each candidate.

• Addendum by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Concurrence with Shadow Mask's statement.

Orsitz: Buras (Warmagic), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Olritz (Magitech)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation)
Cross: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That the strategy for dealing with Elemental Surge should be determined.

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Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That both Ray's and Cross' plans have their merits.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That it is unlikely that cooperating with Dragonblood Empire and Iron Lords would work out well.

Query by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Would it be possible to bind the elementals, or drain their energy for the Tower's use?

Comment by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Cross's plan has the best chance of success.

• Addendum by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Cross can secure a northern region to threaten the Dragonblood Empire's northern cities, and secure alliance with Telamore at the same time. This would buy time to resolve the Elreath situation, and demon extermination should be carried out to secure world approval.
• Comment by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That Grand's plan is sound, but should be kept a secret from Dragonblood Empire.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Grand's plan is too complex, and would leave the Tower in a vulnerable position.

Orsitz: Marshall (Tower Affairs)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Passtrum (Fringe)
Cross: Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power), Weymond (Initiation)
Abstain: Olritz (Magitech)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Society of WG and Department of History will investigate the feasibility of recovering the Stormwatcher.

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

---

Proposals Effected

Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Stormwatcher Report

• Actions Taken: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday has provided the Stormwatcher Records, with sensitive information redacted and restricted to Executive Council.

Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Peace Directive (1 Turn)

Aye: Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History), Passturm (Fringe), Olritz (Magitech), Grand (World Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: -
Abstain: Mask (Shadow)

• Actions Taken: Peace Directive is Passed with immediate effect.

Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): Resolution of Failure to Communicate I

Spoiler: Minutes

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs is concentrating on Energy Efficiency, and as such is not able to contribute.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

Illarius Weymond (Sigma): Resolution of Tower Security and Interdepartmental Issues

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Query by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the issues of formation of security force, expected level of contributions from each Department, and Project Leader needs to be determined.

• Addendum by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That the present safety mechanism is post-factum verification by the Tower, that individual Departments work with different interpretations of Tower Law, and that jurisdiction of inter-Department issues has yet to be resolved.

Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork): That Department of Warmagic should bear most of the responsibility for staffing and leading the force.

• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): Concurrence with Olritz's statement, and that this should be kept in mind when allocating resources.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.

Concern raised by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That it may not be prudent to focus on internal security, when external threats to the Tower are extant.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent disagrees with Turen's statement.
• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That Buras disagrees with Turen's statement.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

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Spoiler: Dragon Friends

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Given that I've only just begun work on said research... I would like to say that is the case, but realistically, that is never going to happen so early in the process. I can tell you it's because Dragon Essence possesses Astrological Sympathy, meaning that it's compatible with any Ritual that are presently favoured by the stars at any point in time.

This isn't exactly your field of study, so I'm not sure how much help that is to you. Nevertheless, I will continue my research on it, and update you with any new information I glean. Of course, additional supplies would be of great help, here.

[Thelonius]

Executive Council

Tower Markets

Sir Rupert Grand: “Well… I’ll change my vote to… abstain. I think Mage Summerscent is mistaken and the Tower’s primary focus at the moment should be on the South.”

Ruby Marshall: “Invisible Staff Rickton, can Hidden Eyes manage supervision of two projects?”

Invisible Staff Rickton: “We have the capable men for both, I assure you.”

Ruby Marshall: “Well, good. As for your reasoning, you are proposing expanding Tower Markets project as an intelligence operation. In order for it to work, you’ll need information to analyze. People are secretive about their money and they don’t like others sniffing around it. So merchants and bankers would be used as spies. It may be more subtle, than direct spying, but if foreign nations get a whiff of overly nosy merchants, we would only spoil our relations with them. So no Node access. Besides, we do have Mana Node Survey Project for acquiring access to Nodes. Change the mission of the project from Intelligence, to trade, and I'll consider it.”

Shadow Mask: “You are conjuring Shadows to persuade me Summerscent, but I can see through them. My answer is Nay. The trade is a two-way street. What magic can we trade to the world, that would not be a disaster in the wrong hands? Oh, I’m certain, they’d love to get hands on our knowledge and power - and burn the world with it, when they lose control. I’ve proposed Collectors of Woe, because they would make certain, the conducted trade is tightly regulated. I’m confident the Magic-Conservative Party would turn against the Council, if we go ahead with Tower Markets, as it is. They only way it would work right is with Collectors of Woe, keeping a watchful eye.

On Security

Ruby Marshall: “We have Tower Wards Project, to activate and maintain Tower Defences, but I’m reluctant to implement it, while we are facing energy shortage. However, it’s true that Tower Archives could be helpful in dealing with troubles. I’ve conferred with Archivist and he can provide information helpful for Communication and Security task forces, if he’s sent [2 RES]. In my opinion, the return would be equivalent to around [5 CRE/DES], so it’s worthwhile investment.

Atelier Solaris

Exchanges [3]

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Projects

Grand Astrologist: “Personally, I favor roll of a dice.”
Purifiers: “I believe you were intended to be a tiebreaker. I’m surprised, you relinquish your authority so easily.”
Fleshcrafters: “A vote for only two projects seems sensible.”
Dagger Brotherhood: “As you decide.”
Vault Master: “A tiebreaker.”

Department Ward

[The vote doesn’t change.]

Great Expedition

Fleshcrafters: “Our best suggestion is not to deal with them… but hopefully, they won’t have time for anything shady.”

Purifiers [3]

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Ritualist Summerscent. In no way, can I accept, that a faction from Department of Warmagic, can dictate, who runs the Halls of the Seat of Rituals. I strongly advise you against legitimizing that stunt for the sake of our Department. I would say a strong condemnation would have been preferable, but I guess, that is unlikely. We do not wish to become Clods of the Tower.

Merchants, Reclaimers, Lightbringers [3]

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Reclaimers: “If we form the party, I think we can get more support in the Magitech Department and persuade Artificer Orlitz of the importance of the Project.”

Lightbringers: “You’ve hit on something here. If you could pledge to provide all party members with Council Minutes, it would show your dedication. But in what way, would they be “edited” exactly?”

ECT [3]

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“Ah. That depends. We have been considering going on an expedition to the North, for that Adori Enclave. If that happens, we’ll need all resources of the Great Library. You can check with Lorekeepers - they are considering organizing it, so they’ll know, whether we’d be going or not.”

Supreme Chancellor Lihoday [10]

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“I understand. It would be important to restore normal operations of the Department as soon as possible. I can consider this request on two conditions.”

“First. My subordinates will inspect anything that is locked by the Wards in your Departments.”
“Second. I would like for you to prove your dedication to keeping order and unity in the Tower. A vote of confidence for the Tower Council would demonstrate to the Tower Mages, that we are working together to solve their problems and reinforce our respective authorities. Can I count on your support?”

Inquest [3]

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“I fear this ceasefire only permits the traitors and saboteurs to deal more damage to the Tower. But perhaps, Council didn't have a choice.”

Sigma

Shadow Mask [4]

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“Well, I would say support in the Executive Council could make it easier for me to address the situation. Would you be willing to provide your vote on certain matters?”

Inquest [PM]

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“We can provide 6 DES, if you can make Inquest leader of the Security Task Force and help us leverage our performance into position of Tower-Staff. We do not mind strings for Anti-Infiltration Project. Supreme Chancellor Lihoday sees the threat foreign infiltrators and saboteurs present to the Tower.”

“We can make something out of it and Anti-Infiltration Project - certainly traitors would be unrooted by our efforts and their territories would require new competent management, that Department of Initiation could provide.”

“Now, if a vote of confidence was called for the Tower Council, would you be willing to support it?”

Lorekeepers

Warders [11]

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"Doubtful. Church doesn't employ Mages. And if they did, unless Tower authorizes them, they would be considered Warlocks. Granted, we may have some insight into Demons, that could be useful to non-gifted... More useful, if we advance our study of the creatures further. But then comes the question, of why would we teach the Church?"

Shadow Teatime [PM]

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Isa nods: "Yes, you can have the vote. As for candidate... Ray could be a good choice. She seems favored."

Society of WG [PM]

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"I can arrange for the meeting, through my contacts. However, some guard or assistance with travel would preferable. We shouldn't rely on the other side too much."

Index/Hidden Eyes [11]

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Index: "Certainly. Please clarify, what information about Age of Magic, do you believe the Fox possesses?"

Elfbane [PM]

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“Ah. Congratulations on your victory, Councilman. I believe we have discuss the possibility of provision to us, minutes of the Executive Council’s meetings. We need to start thinking, who on the Council is the Elvish pawn, after all.”

Department of History [6]

Spoiler

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Task Forces

Elder Sages: “We are historians - we do not have the right assets for this.”
Elfbane: “Well… we can spare [1 MAN].”
EE: “All our resources are for expeditions! I have trouble finding bathrooms in the Tower.”
Index: “I suppose we can provide [1 RES], though whether it would be helpful...”
ECT: “I fear we don’t have anything to spare.”
Heralds: “We can provide [2 DES].”
Curators: “I fear all of our efforts are focused on keeping the Archives secure.”

Expeditions

EE: “4 MAN and 1 CRE. And here we go! Let sneak into that tomb and get the revenant’s treasures.”
ECT: “Hmm… that Shadow Enclave seems promising. We can contribute MAN 2, RES 2 for the share of spoils.”
Heralds: “We can contribute 1 CRE and 3 MAN, as well as assistance in organizing journey (Trait).”

Clockwork Cult

Ruby Marshall [2]

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“Your reasoning in the Council has often mirrored my own. Perhaps we can consider organization of a party, dedicated to reasonable, conservative policies. The Tower needs cooler hands, to reign in the more excitable elements or those too much in love with power games, like this “Shadow Mask”. I’m certain, factions like Dawnguard and Elder Sages would join us.”

Arsenal Master [2]

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“Thank you. I would also require support, if an issue about my eligibility as Named Automata is called in question. My appointment to the command of the Arsenal was irregular occurrence. I would not expect, that Automata’s control would be accepted in Halls anywhere, except for the Magitech Department, but even there, it can require some push.”

Mindcrafters [2]

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“A challenge? Well, I’m afraid, that a challenge like that would be a violation of the Peace Directive, issued by the Executive Council, that prohibits anything that may be construed as attempt to take over a Hall. We would be glad to demonstrate our competency and how laughable these accusations are in the next month, when it wouldn’t be against the law.”

Reclaimers [2]

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“Well, if there’s a possibility of joint-mission success, we could provide around 5 [MAN/CRE] for it.”

Theists [PM]

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Chaos Principle: “We may gain better understanding of the Demiurge by studying his work. But to succeed we will need greater resources - access to the Tower’s libraries, support of Halls that would lend to study. Meanwhile, we would also need to unite the Mages, so when we find our answers, they would be listened to. Therefore, I propose, that we seek to sway minds and find more allies this month. The interdepartmental rivalries are tearing the Tower apart. We are here from Tower, Fringe and I hope Magitech Departments - and we can offer a vision of unity behind our ideas, it would both serve our purposes and bring some order. If you are interested in our work, perhaps you could sway those, who respect you and perhaps use your connections [POL] to persuade Tower Mages to give us a chance. What do you say?”

Magitech Department [4]

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Survey Corps: “We can contribute [2 CRE]”
Lightning Mage: “I can provide [1 DES].”
Mindcrafters: “We have nothing to spare.”
Logicians: “We have no resources to spare.”
Reclaimers: “Well… I guess we can part with [1 CRE].”
Ervin Redford: “I can’t spare anything.”
Academic Board: “Same here, unfortunately.”

[Nemesis67]

Lorekeepers

Task Forces:

History can provide 2 DES, 2 MAN, 1 CRE, 2 RES, and 1 POL. Our scholars (2 RES) will assist the Archivist in exchange for him sharing his knowledge.

Spoiler: Task Force Contributions

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STF: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES), History (2 DES, 2 MAN)
CTF: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (1 CRE)
ICTF: World Affairs (3 POL), History (1 POL), Fringe (?), Initiation (?)

Tower Archivist:

Tower Affairs (3 RES), History (2 RES)

This leaves Ritual, Magitech, Fringe, Initiation, and Warmagic to offer their Department's assistance to the Task Forces, or to addressing other issues facing the Tower.

To touch back on the full list:

Our Interdepartmental Issues and potentially Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment are addressed by the ICTF.

Failure to Communicate by the CTF.

Tower Security, which includes the Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, and Disappearances by the STF.

Incompetence and Personnel Shortage will be addressed by the Department of Initiation's Projects, if they are approved.

The Seat of Magitech and the Department of Tower Affairs will address the Energy Shortage, I believe?

That is everything internal to the Tower. Now this leaves our Military, our Intelligence Networks, and our Reputation. Thanks to Invisible Staff Rickton, we've discussed the current state of Intelligence and how to address it, but not much of the rest. Mr. Grand, could you speak to Reputation, and Mr. Buras, Military?

Tower Military

The Tower Military is in complete disarray. While capable of fighting enemies, it is likely that serious losses would be incurred, unless Warmages are better organized, armed and supported.

Tower Intelligence

The loss of senior leadership has led to disruption between Tower and it’s intelligence networks. At this point the Tower is running blind, without awareness of hidden events and accepting rumors from tavern drunks at face value.

[Rumor Investigation: 1]*

*[Tower can investigate a single piece of news to receive a little extra information or dispel misinformation.]

Tower Reputation

The Tower is viewed as power-hungry, demon-summoning collection of sociopaths, bent on world domination. It’s time is ending, its actions are growing more and more desperate and erratic.

Dawn Lord

"I will vote for Admiral Ray. While I do not question Cross' brilliance, I fear his tunnel vision on conquering the Dragonblood will split the resources of the Dawn Empire too far, and open up an attack from the Iron Lords or this Glen-Yan alliance. Oritz would be my second choice, as I believe he would secure the Empire, but I think his approach is isolationist and would shut our eyes to the rest of the world."

Clockwork Cult (PM)

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History is also discussing an expedition to the Adori city. Masters of Shadow and Magitech, surviving since the Age of Magic. Your Department's assistance would be greatly beneficial.

And we are loaning you [1 RES] this month, in payment for your help last month. Though with this Mana shortage, would you be interested in that instead?

Shadow Teatime (PM)

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"Good. We'll bring up the matter shortly. First, we need to address global affairs.

What are the Paths like to the Dragonblood Empire? Myself and Mr. Grand are planning to heal Shylla the Wyvern with Hospitium's aid. That should prolong the succession crisis and give us some leverage over her. But transport is proving to be difficult."

Society of Worldly Affairs (PM)

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Unfortunately not our specialty. We've got [3 DES] we could contribute. The Heralds may be able to offer support, though they are working on an expedition to the Adori city. We'll ask the Shadow Walkers about taking a Path there.

Would you happen to have any [RES] you could provide to help us investigate these Depths of Sorrow for the Supply Vault report? We want to know what the designs were based on.

Elfbane (PM)

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[OOC: I brought an Elfbane member as a personal secretary into the meeting, as we had agreed. If that's not allowed, then release the minutes to Elfbane.

Barus Turen, leader of the Lorekeepers, accompanied by a masked personal assistant, addresses the assembly.

...

Internal (GM)

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Elfbane assistant, as previously agreed.

Report is in the hands of the Eye of the North.

]

Department of History (11)

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To clarify the use of these assets. The Council is assembling joint Departmental Task Forces to address Communications, Tower Security, and Interdepartmental Issues. They believe this approach is preferable to Department's handling individual problems, so our proposal of Index solving Communications Problems was outvoted. These will be our Department's collective contribution. The Lorekeepers will contribute 1 RES, 1 CRE, 1 MAN, and 1 POL.

As for our expeditions. In total, you have pooled 9 MAN, 2 CRE, and 2 RES. The Western Winds have said they can get to both the ship and the city with [6 stats] from us, though more contributed would mean more benefit. Eye of the North is less willing to provide assistance with the Adori enclave, as they are focused on political affairs. Heralds, you've offered your assistance there. I am speaking with Shadow and Magitech to see if they

Warders (11)

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These talks of re-opening trade between Telamore and the Elves concern me. If we could get the Church to oppose such actions and support the Dawn Empire as a trade partner instead, it would prevent the North falling to elfkind again.

Elfbane (11)

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What is your opinion of Index? I chose them as Project Leader of Record Keeping because their goal of cataloging all the book collections within the Tower was noble, and befitting of the role. However, they are fighting me on acquiring a copy of Alendel the Fox's interrogation from the Hidden Eye. That half-elf in the Dawn Empire. I'm not certain why they'd seek to pool all knowledge of the Mages and then block the Master of Ancient Ages and Department Head of History from gaining something that would potentially lend information to the Age of Magic and Age of Elves. It seems those are dissonant actions and philosophies. Unless they seek sole access to all knowledge of the Circle...

Index, Hidden Eye (11)

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His propaganda references the era and the Tower's policies of the time. His statement implies he knows more, or he is lying. Either way, that would have come up in the interrogation, and would be relevant to the Age of Magic.

’The Tower lies. They encouraged the breeding between the nobility and elves in the Age of Magic, then suppressed this knowledge, so now their laws punish the innocent, victims of their ancient schemes. How many of the noble lineages have the so-called elvish taint? How many bribe the Silver Masks or hide their children from the Tower’s sight?’’

Internal (GM)

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Lot my stats are going to task forces so I have my own person in each of them, and the Archivist thing. I should get every report this way.

And may have just implied a faction are Elves solely because they annoyed me. But knowing you, there are elves infiltrated into some factions. May as well let Elfbane's demon find out.

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Solaris
MAN: 3

Tower Markets

"So what I'm hearing here is, some of you don't much like the idea of Tower Markets as an intelligence apparatus... but are more willing to consider it as a purely economic apparatus for the Tower?"

"...huh."

"..."

"...alright, you know what? Let's settle this before I tie all of you any further into this already inextricable knot. I'm calling a vote for revising the scope of this proposal, right now."

"Shall we continue discussing Tower Markets as a complementary intelligence asset? If so, I will stick with my nomination of the Hidden Eye as one of the Project Assistants alongside the Merchants of Wonder."

"Or alternatively, shall we discuss Tower Markets as purely an economic asset? If that's the case, then I'll strike out my original proposal, and submit a revised version of it to the Council's deliberation with this in mind. And since I would have little reason to insist on the Hidden Eye in this case, I will nominate only the Merchants of Wonder as one of the Project Assistants, and as for the other... I'll consider just about anyone you'd nominate. The Collectors of Woe? The Conquistadors? I'll go with whoever the majority of the Council think would be most suitable."

"Come, let's resolve this before we go any further."

Tower Security

Ruby Marshall: "Sounds like a worthwhile investment. And as I recall, you've already committed 3 RES, which would more than cover the Archivist's request. So may we assume that it's settled?"

"Or do you think it might be worth extending this research effort to the other Libraries in the Tower? Perhaps establish some sort of Research Task Force we can contribute RES to, which we can use to discover defenses in other places such as, say, the Great Tower Library?"

Surge Strategem

"Okay, I've decided. I'm going to go with Marshall Cross's plan. Lord Orsitz's feels like it could trap the Dawn Empire into a war of attrition that will only hurt us in the long run, and Admiral Ray's seems to be more like wishful thinking the more I think about it. Marshall Cross proposes to take out two birds with one stone though, and I can get behind that."

Task Forces

"Alright. After a poll of my Department, the Seat of Ritual Magic can provide 2 DES, 3 CRE and 3 POL in total to the Task Forces."

"And before it slips our minds, we still need to determine who will be in charge of each Task Force respectively."

Spoiler: Executive Council Minutes (Public)

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Executive Council
1st Meeting

Date: [Turn 4] (OOC: Insert official date here.)

Participants:

• Department of Initiations: Illarius Weymond [Sigma]
• Department of History: Barus Turen [Lorekeepers]
• Department of World Affairs: Sir Rupert Grand [Society of WG]
• Department of Tower Affairs: Ruby Marshall [Energy Technicians]
• Department of Warmagic: Caldwin Buras [Internal Security]
• Seat of Power: Anise Fortescue [Uplift]
• Seat of Shadow: "Shadow Mask"
• Seat of Magitech: Artificer Madeline Olritz [Clockwork Cult]
• Seat of Ritual Magic: Alchemist Solaris Summerscent [Atelier Solaris]
• Seat of Fringe Magic: Dr. Passtrum [Hospitium]

Purpose:

To address the issues that are affecting the Tower at present. These are;

• Tower Military
• Tower Intelligence
• Tower Reputation
• Interdepartmental Issues
• Failure to Communicate I (% Chance for problems with Projects)
• Tower Security (Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, Disappearances, Unrest)
• Incompetence I (1st Department Trait is disabled)
• Personnel Shortage I (Factions no longer receive 1 Stat Growth)
• Energy Shortage I: (Faction's Mana Income = 0)
• Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment I

In addition, the position of the Dawn Lord should be discussed and voted on.

---

Spoiler: Query: Availability of Tower resources for additional Tower Projects

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Response by Bursar Laurie: The Tower Council can fund two extra Projects at maximum.

Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That if it is a choice between funding extra Projects and funding the Departments, that the latter should be preferable.

Response by Bursar Laurie: That funding Tower Projects would not affect present funding of Departments, but may have an effect on future funding increases

Aye: Turen (History)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

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Query by Sir Rupert Grand (World Affairs): Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by Bursar Laurie: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That expanding the Project to include forensic accounting may not be necessary, given other Projects being maintained by the Tower.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal can certainly be considered with the omission of the forensic accounting portion.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Concurrence with Turen's comment, and that the proposal as-is risks spoiling relations between the Tower and other nations.

Query by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Eye of the North should not be nominated as Project Assistant, due to poor fit.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Agreement with Fortescue's statement, thus nomination for Eye of the North is dropped.
• Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Conquistadors be nominated as Project Assistant.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Conquistadors are not suitable, but Hidden Eye should be nominated instead.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.
• Follow-up by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That although it can be beneficial in acquiring raw resources for the Tower, the benefit is not large enough to justify the cost in Tower funding.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Reiteration of acquisition opportunities that Tower Markets can open up, especially in terms of Magitech artefacts.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That there is merit in maintaining markets as a way of furthering the Tower's interests in the outside world.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): A brief summary of diplomatic opportunities that can be exploited with Tower Markets.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.
• Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Collectors of Woe would be more suitable, at least for the case of the Adori enclave.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Merchants of Wonder would be more suitable for retrieving artefacts from mundane hands.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets will actively work with Halls in any Department who have a stake in certain trade negotiations.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That only Collectors of Woe can ensure that trade would be tightly regulated.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Passtrum (Fringe), Mask (Shadow)
Abstain: Grand (World Affairs)

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal should be revised as a purely economic asset of the Tower, instead of an intelligence asset.

Tower Markets as Intelligence asset: -
Tower Markets as Economic asset: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Tower Law is clarified and made explicit to prevent law being taken into individual's hands and preserve Tower authority.

Show

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That it is ideal to have an independent branch of the Council handling legal matters, under the auspices of the Lawspeaker.

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the following need to be clarified - Departments are under jurisdiction of Heads; disputes between Department Heads are under jurisdiction of the Lawspeaker and the Executive Council; that there should be an outline for acceptable levels of reprisal for all Departments to follow.

• Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Weymond's statements.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the current arrangement of Tower Law being handled by Tower Council is preferable.
• Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): Concurrence with Weymond's statements, and recommendation that charges of incompetence be retained as sufficient grounds for action.
• Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Concurrence with Fortescue's statement, and recommendation that new Tower Laws be drawn up.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Partial concurrence with Mask's statement, and recommendation that present Tower Law be reviewed at the very least.
• Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That revision of Tower Law may be useful, but must be undertaken with extreme care to ensure useful portions are not thrown out.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That the Seat of Shadow addresses Tower Intelligence by confirming Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers as Department Projects

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Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That as Invisible Staff Rickton is not an Executive Council member, his proposal be confirmed and seconded.

• Confirmed by Grand (World Affairs).
• Seconded by Turen (History).

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That the Tower Council be queried about possibility of additional funding for executing aforementioned Projects, without infringing on prerogatives of Department Head (Shadow).

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): How would Project Leaders be selected for such Council-sponsored Projects?
• Response by Bursar Laurie: One of either Project may be funded, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Rejection of funding under this condition.

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the Department of Initiation addresses Incompetence I and Personnel Shortage by supporting Admission and Education as Department Projects.

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the Proposal seems favorable.
Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Education seems favorable, but Culling should be favored over Admissions.
Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Admission seems favorable, but Anti-Infiltration should be favored over Education.
Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That Culling is not presently favorable.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That Turen disagrees with Olritz's statement.

Suggestion by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That the Tower fund an additional Project to put Anti-Infiltration in play.

• Comment by Bursar Laurie: That Tower Council can fund Anti-Infiltration, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That this condition is acceptable, although Inquest (Initiation) is a strong candidate to consider for the post.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Passtrum (Fringe), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That the Department of Tower Affairs and the Seat of Magitech will be responsible for addressing Energy Shortage I

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Security Task Force: Resolves Tower Security

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Contributions: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES), History (2 DES, 2 MAN), Ritual Magic (2 DES)

Spoiler: Communications Task Force: Resolves Failure to Communicate I

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Contributions: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (?), History (1 CRE), Ritual Magic (3 CRE)

Spoiler: Interdepartmental Cooperation Task Force: Resolves Interdepartmental Issues

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Comment by Barus Turen (History): Can also be used to resolve Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment as well.

Contributions: World Affairs (3 POL), Fringe (?), Initiation (?), History (1 POL), Ritual Magic (3 POL)

Spoiler: Proposal by Ruby Marshal (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs' contribution of 3 RES for Task Forces could be used to find information in the Libraries that might be useful in resolving the Tower's issues.

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Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the Tower Archives is the most likely place to find such information.

• Response by Ruby Marshal (Energy Technicians): That Tower Archives will provide information useful for STF and CTF, in return for 2 RES.
• Comment by Barus Turen (History): That History will contribute the 2 RES necessary.
• Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Affairs' contribution should be more than sufficient.

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That a fourth Task Force should be formed, to use RES contributions from Departments to find more useful information from the other Libraries.

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That discussion and votes for the Lord-Protector Elections be carried out.

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That either Ray or Oritz will be their choice, as Cross seems too unstable.
Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That it is time for the Tower to liberate the Chained.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That more arguments should be heard on the suitability of each candidate.

• Addendum by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Concurrence with Shadow Mask's statement.

Orsitz: Buras (Warmagic), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Olritz (Magitech)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History)
Cross: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That the strategy for dealing with Elemental Surge should be determined.

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Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That both Ray's and Cross' plans have their merits.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That it is unlikely that cooperating with Dragonblood Empire and Iron Lords would work out well.

Query by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Would it be possible to bind the elementals, or drain their energy for the Tower's use?

Comment by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Cross's plan has the best chance of success.

• Addendum by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Cross can secure a northern region to threaten the Dragonblood Empire's northern cities, and secure alliance with Telamore at the same time. This would buy time to resolve the Elreath situation, and demon extermination should be carried out to secure world approval.
• Comment by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That Grand's plan is sound, but should be kept a secret from Dragonblood Empire.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Grand's plan is too complex, and would leave the Tower in a vulnerable position.

Orsitz: Marshall (Tower Affairs)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Passtrum (Fringe)
Cross: Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power), Weymond (Initiation), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Abstain: Olritz (Magitech)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Society of WG and Department of History will investigate the feasibility of recovering the Stormwatcher.

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

---

Proposals Effected

Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Stormwatcher Report

• Actions Taken: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday has provided the Stormwatcher Records, with sensitive information redacted and restricted to Executive Council.

Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Peace Directive (1 Turn)

Aye: Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History), Passturm (Fringe), Olritz (Magitech), Grand (World Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: -
Abstain: Mask (Shadow)

• Actions Taken: Peace Directive is Passed with immediate effect.

Dr Passtrum (Hospitium), Ruby Marshall(Energy Technicians): Task Forces

Aye: Passtrum (Fringe), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Grand (World Affairs), Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power)
Nay: -

• Actions Taken: Task Forces is Passed, and will be formed with contributions from all Departments

Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): Resolution of Failure to Communicate I

Spoiler: Minutes

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Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs is concentrating on Energy Efficiency, and as such is not able to contribute.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

Illarius Weymond (Sigma): Resolution of Tower Security and Interdepartmental Issues

Spoiler: Minutes

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Query by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the issues of formation of security force, expected level of contributions from each Department, and Project Leader needs to be determined.

• Addendum by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That the present safety mechanism is post-factum verification by the Tower, that individual Departments work with different interpretations of Tower Law, and that jurisdiction of inter-Department issues has yet to be resolved.

Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork): That Department of Warmagic should bear most of the responsibility for staffing and leading the force.

• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): Concurrence with Olritz's statement, and that this should be kept in mind when allocating resources.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.

Concern raised by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That it may not be prudent to focus on internal security, when external threats to the Tower are extant.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent disagrees with Turen's statement.
• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That Buras disagrees with Turen's statement.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

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Spoiler: Lorekeepers

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Hey there, mister Turen! So, I've heard from the Eldritch Collections Team that you are considering organizing an expedition to the Adori Enclave. How is that working out, by the way? Think Tower Markets could be of some use there?

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Spoiler: Exchange (6)

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Project Referendum

Purifiers: "I proposed the Referendum as a promise to my fellow Ritualists, that they will continue to get a say in how our Department is run even after I'm elected Department Head. As such, this is my demonstration that I am serious about this promise, and I hope all of you will take it for what I intended it to mean."

Everyone else: "Okay, so I'll count this as 1 vote apiece for roll of the die, second round of voting, and tiebreaker respectively, along with an abstention from the Dagger Brotherhood. It looks like we have another stalemate here."

"Or it would, except it is interesting to note that the tiebreaker vote came from mister Warner himself. This makes me think that even if he were to be given the deciding vote by way of a second round, he would abstain, and then we'll be right back to the tiebreaker again."

"So if you're all agreeable, perhaps we should go straight to the tiebreaker vote. I can see equally good reasons to confirm either of the two Projects; Astrological Charts would be more directly useful to us as Ritualists, as I presume the more accurate knowledge that mister Fuller could offer us with it would make our efforts at casting Rituals that much more effective. On the other hand, Subtle Weapons can supplement the Tower's defenses, which also means it's more useful for me as a token to barter with for favours that will benefit our Department."

"Therefore, final deliberations. Grand Astrologist, Dagger Brotherhood, now's the time to make your concluding arguments in favour of confirming your respective Projects, before I make my decision."

Department Ward

"Alrighty then. The proposal stands as failed."

Great Tower Library Expedition

"They're not likely to have that time, no. Eldritch Collection Team has kindly informed me that they may be busy with an expedition to the Adori Enclave this [Turn]. However, by the same token, it may be possible we may not be able to go through with this expedition after all. I'll keep you all informed."

Task Forces

"I'll be contributing 2 POL. Alright, I will inform the Executive Council of your respective contributions then."

Other Issues

"If there are any issues that you feel I should have raised, or if there are any that you would like to raise yourself, please do so before we wrap this up."

Spoiler: Purifiers

Show

Oh, for... there's some sort of misunderstanding here, mister Angelo. The Department of Warmagic was not what I was referring to, I was commenting more on the Tower Council itself.

And now our Supreme Chancellor would be aware of what I said, if he's paying attention. Oh, well. I doubt I'm the only one in the Tower saying similar things, in any case.

Anyway. No, I have never, and will never, consider giving mister Buras any say in how our Seat of Ritual Magic is run. So, you can rest assured about that. What his Department did may not be acceptable to some, but that is why there's presently discussion in the Executive Council to avoid similar incidents in the future.

The only issue here, as far as I'm concerned, is mister Orsini. Assuming he makes it out of his exile and back into his former position as chief of the Soul Alchemists, with no further interruptions, his past behaviour would make me leery of entrusting him with anything at all. This means that it'll be unlikely I'll ever authorize the Silver Mask's Hall Project beyond Grey level, and that in turn will affect your Transcendence Party's goals, I presume.

That problem would be quickly resolved if you found someone of equal skill to mister Orsini to assume leadership over the Soul Alchemists and the Hall Project, of course. Or even if he does return to assume leadership, subject to the conditions that I laid out earlier.

Spoiler: Merchants, Reclaimers, Lightbringers

Show

Reclaimers: "Nice! I assume I have your support then?"

Lightbringers: "Oh, nothing big. Just that I'll show you only the portion directly relevant to my efforts to convince the Council to fund Tower Markets, of course. And that the identities of the Executive Council members will be redacted, as I don't wish to impose on their privacy. Except for myself, of course, so that you can see for yourself the lengths I've gone to in order to make it happen."

"In fact, let me just give it to you now."

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

Show

Query by [REDACTED]: Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by [REDACTED]: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.
• Comment by [REDACTED]: That expanding the Project to include forensic accounting may not be necessary, given other Projects being maintained by the Tower.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal can certainly be considered with the omission of the forensic accounting portion.
• Comment by [REDACTED]: Concurrence with Turen's comment, and that the proposal as-is risks spoiling relations between the Tower and other nations.

Query by [REDACTED]: Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by [REDACTED]: That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.
• Suggestion by [REDACTED]: That Eye of the North should not be nominated as Project Assistant, due to poor fit.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Agreement with Fortescue's statement, thus nomination for Eye of the North is dropped.
• Suggestion by [REDACTED]: That Conquistadors be nominated as Project Assistant.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Conquistadors are not suitable, but Hidden Eye should be nominated instead.

Concern raised by [REDACTED]: That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.
• Follow-up by [REDACTED]: That although it can be beneficial in acquiring raw resources for the Tower, the benefit is not large enough to justify the cost in Tower funding.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Reiteration of acquisition opportunities that Tower Markets can open up, especially in terms of Magitech artefacts.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

• Comment by [REDACTED]: That there is merit in maintaining markets as a way of furthering the Tower's interests in the outside world.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): A brief summary of diplomatic opportunities that can be exploited with Tower Markets.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by [REDACTED]: That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.
• Suggestion by [REDACTED]: That Collectors of Woe would be more suitable, at least for the case of the Adori enclave.
• Suggestion by [REDACTED]: That Merchants of Wonder would be more suitable for retrieving artefacts from mundane hands.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets will actively work with Halls in any Department who have a stake in certain trade negotiations.
• Response by [REDACTED]: That only Collectors of Woe can ensure that trade would be tightly regulated.

Aye: [REDACTED]
Nay: [REDACTED]
Abstain: [REDACTED]

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal should be revised as a purely economic asset of the Tower, instead of an intelligence asset.

Tower Markets as Intelligence asset: -
Tower Markets as Economic asset: -

Spoiler: Eldritch Collections Team

Show

Oh, I see. I'll ask mister Turen about it then. But wait, when you say you need all resources from the Great Library, do you mean that trading Access can't happen this Turn at all?

Spoiler: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday (10)

Show

Well... before I agree to this, I'll have to consult with my fellow Ritualists. Some of the Wards are in their jurisdictions, and I really should ask them whether they would be agreeable to it first. Think I can get back to you in a bit?

Spoiler: Vault Guard

Show

Hey, mister Warner! I have to say, I'm somewhat surprised you'd give up the deciding vote so easily. I expected you'd have taken the chance to make some real hay out of it.

Anyway, I've spoken to the Supreme Chancellor. Told him about "certain Wards in my Department" word-for-word, and he's agreeable to opening the Council Archives to us. But, on the condition that some of his people gets to inspect anything we can unlock from behind the Wards.

I figured you may not be so amenable to that, so I figured I'll ask first. What do you think about it?

Spoiler: Tower Archives

Show

Good day, Archivist! Solaris Summerscent, of the Seat of Ritual Magic here!

So, I understand the Tower Archives holds everything there is to know about the Tower itself. Any chance it may contain some information about the Ritual Vault in my Department?

Spoiler: Inquest

Show

That is the case, unfortunately. Think of it as a chance to prepare, I guess?

[HerbieRAI]

Hospitium

Executive Council

Task Forces
I was thinking of Task forces getting re-evaluated each month in case there is another issue that requires more attention. I feel we can also get a lot more resources with this method, since departments will see it as a one time investment of resources they may not be using that month. I can lead the ICTF.

Fringe Department will give 4 DES, 2 MAN, 4 CRE, and 3 POL to the Task forces

Current Task Force Resources

Spoiler

Show

STF: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES), History (2 DES, 2 MAN), Ritual Magic (2 DES), Fringe (4 DES, 2 MAN)
CTF: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (1 CRE), Ritual Magic (3 CRE), Fringe (4 CRE)
ICTF: World Affairs (3 POL), Fringe (3 POL), Initiation (?), History (1 POL), Ritual Magic (3 POL)

internal (PM)

Spoiler

Show

For my notes, I'm giving 3 CRE and 3 POL.

[Thelonius]

Executive Council

Tower Reputation

Sir Rupert Grand: “Well. I expect, that if Admiral Ray is elected, she can help us improve our standing, through her open policies. But otherwise, things are bleak. The Contract Mages project should show people the usefulness of Mages and that we can be dealt with reliably. But I doubt it would be enough to sufficiently change opinion about us. We need another project, preferably two, that would change minds about us. I suggested Culling - if we are seeing as dealing with dangerous Warlocks, it would mean a lot. And we need to put those damn Warlock Pirates down. Demonic Extermination is a very safe bet - people hate Demons, way more then they hate us. And it could work to counteract those slanderous rumors. You know, which ones. Once I find sufficient resources, I was planning to implement the Enlightenment Project. Tower can build schools, support scientists and artists, share some knowledge we have with the world. I expect it would be a great boost to our image. And we could certainly gain a better position, if we could prove the Elvish crimes, that are currently pinned on us. If people stop thinking we ruined the “paradise” of the Age of Elves, and see how things really were, we may be finally recognized as heroes, rather than what we are believed to be with our current, unfortunate reputation. ”

Tower Security

Ruby Marshall: “Grand Library is likely to contain duplicates or inferior version of information, that Tower Archives have. It would be worthwhile, if their [Territory Project] is sufficiently advanced… But I doubt it with those cultists in charge. Frankly, the issue of Theists bothers me, but we have greater issues to focus on for now.”

“Now, as for research task force… It’s an intriguing idea. I just fear, that we have reached the limit of the resources we can command from the Tower, so it would be limited to personal contributions of the Councilmembers - and we do have our own projects to pay attention to. Perhaps, once the authority of the Executive Council is strong enough to command greater contributions or when we no longer have such a need for one of the Task Forces, that it may be disbanded and it’s resources shifted.”

Task Forces

Anise Fortescue: “I propose we make it easy. The Councilor, whose Department contributed most to the Task Force, chooses its leader. It seems fair, that those, who give the most are put in charge.”

Ruby Marshall: “Well, it may be less efficient in choosing the person with right skills to be in charge, but it does motivate Departments to do more for the Council. I suggest we follow Councilwoman Fortescue’s suggestion, but discuss the Task Forces in more detail, later, when things get calmer.”

Shadow Mask: “I don’t mind voting for Task Forces leaders.”

Sir Rupert Grand: “I agree with Councilwoman Marshall.”

Tower Markets

Ruby Marshall: “I would prefer to avoid voting about voting.”

Shadow Mask: “I would prefer the intelligence focus, but with mercantile concerns, balanced ”

Sir Rupert Grand: “Either economic or intelligence focus are fine by me. My primary concern is that project should be oriented towards South, at least until we resolve the Elreath issue.”

Atelier Solaris

Exchanges [3]

Spoiler

Show

Dagger Brotherhood: “We are not men of many words. Tower has many enemies. We can stop them - prevent wars, remove monsters from power, protect our people.”

Grand Astrologist: “The World speaks to us through the Stars. If we can read the Astrological Charts, we’ll know of it’s movements. We have spoken of the divination and future reading. It is beyond my power to know fate and navigate the will of men. But this project will gather the Diviners and our joint power may be sufficient to calculate the course, that the fate is most likely to take.”

Purifiers [3]

Spoiler

Show

The issue is, that Mage Orsini is in charge of the Soul Alchemists, despite your statements implying the opposite. He was never removed from this position, so he can’t be replaced.

Lightbringers, Merchants, Reclaimers [3]

Spoiler

Show

Lightbringers: “Well, I’m satisfied.”

Merchants: “I suspect the Shadow wants Collectors of Woe. Nothing against them, but not a good choice for the Projects. I trust you’ll be able to keep it about economy. We have things we can trade, without risking loss of power - only a fool undermines his own monopoly.”

ECT [3]

Spoiler

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“Oh, we can trade [3rd Access]. Perhaps saying all resources was a slight exaggeration.”

Vault Guard [3]

Spoiler

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“A tough call. There is a chance Chancellor would use it as pretext to seize important things from the Vault - Tower Security concerns, etc, etc. But I may be overly paranoid. What is your opinion?”

Tower Archives [3]

Spoiler

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“It may, but the chance is slim. You Ritualists are highly secretive about your Department and it’s Vault. I’m fairly certain Ritualists took measures to remove any such information from “outsiders”. Didn’t want anybody unauthorized getting in, I presume.”

Inquest [3]

Spoiler

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“Oh. We have things to do, don’t worry.”

Lorekeepers

History Department [6]

Spoiler

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Heralds: “We can provide MAN or DES. I would say the ship’s wreckage is a better option, by our resources. Nobody is quite certain, where it is, while the island would be easier to find - which means, more chances we’d run into somebody, who we may consider having battle mages for. We can can also assist with reaching the Adori Enclave.”

ETC: “We are interested only in Adori Enclave.”
EE: “Talk, talk, talk. Let’s go already.”

Society of WG [PM]

Spoiler

Show

“Nothing to spare I fear. Too many pots cooking at the same time.”

Shadow Teatime [PM]

Spoiler

Show

Isa falls silent, absent-mindedly drawing circles with her teaspoon. The rest of the room seems to find little to say as well. She finally speaks “Tricky. The Shadow Paths in the East are very unstable… damaged you could say. There are things in them, though perhaps that Spiritborn fool of a doctor could help. The Spirits in the East have some connection to Shadow Paths. The second issue is exit. The Dragonblood Empire has secured most exits from the Shadow Paths with their Chained Mages. So, either you find means to contact Shylla and have her remove the locking ward - accepting, that she would pick the place, we would be traveling to, or we could try to go to one of the more damaged ways and find a new exit. That would be more risky and require extra [3 CRE], plus some luck to find exit near Shylla’s territory.”

Warders [11]

Spoiler

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“So, some political bull****. Not interested.”

Index, Hidden Eyes [11]

Spoiler

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Index: “I see. Well, there is a cause to re-classify it as historical data/intelligence report. I’ll make it available for Halls of Ancient and Modern Ages.”

Documents [PM]

Spoiler

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Fox Interrogation Report

Half-Elves

A list of names, that Fox believed to be half-elves has been extracted from him. It seems to be mostly nobles, some well regarded, others obscure. None belong to the top ranks of the Dawn Empire nobility - mostly this is low to middle power.

Fox’s Allies & Assets

Information about Fox’s allies and assets have been extracted and provided to the Dawn Lords, to be dealt with.

Dragonblood Empire

The interrogation reveals that persons, suspected to be agents of the Dragonblood Empire have been seeking to support the Fox. He has been careful to extract assistance, without giving them leverage, clearly suspecting their nature.

Fox’s Plot

Fox has suspected some event has occupied the Tower. He seems to have assumed it to be internal strife and opted to take advantage of it. It was his belief, that drawing attention to existence of half-elves in the Dawn Empire would force them to reveal themselves and they could gain public support, sufficient to overturn Tower’s anti-elvish policies.

Secrets

It is suspected the subject may have more information. However, techniques available at the moment, that have a chance to extract it, would destroy his mind. For now, the subject remains incarcerated.

Elfbane [PM]

Spoiler

Show

“Ah, it seems you have persuaded them after all. We have been waiting to access that document for a while. Their could be agents of the enemy or just careful. But we’ve got the information and that’s what matters. There are enough names here to root out the elvish taint from the Dawn Empire. We just need to crack those minds for more names, until we have all of them.”

“It may not be feasible right now, but next month, you could bring out forward a Dawn Security Directive, that will see all half-elves in the Dawn Empire put in the Iron Floors. We’ll prepare the ground for it. Once the Purge starts, we’ll need only to see, who is trying to stop it, to have our hidden puppeteers in the Tower exposed.”

“There is however, a cause for concern. Admiral Ray seems favored for Lord-Protector position, including your vote. Her Mulden background is worrisome. They have rather permissive attitudes. And at least one of the names in Fox’s list is among her supporters. There’s a risk, she’ll make a fuss, when we start arresting the tainted nobility. Lord Oritz would accept Tower’s will and Cross won’t care, but she could potentially be a problem. Just as a consideration.”

[ArcaneStomper]

The Clockwork Cult

Executive Council

Tower Reputation
"How would Culling help with the Warlock Pirates" Eliminating mages who are not capable of entering the Tower might eliminate future problems, but not the warlocks who already exist. Honestly it seems more likely to be a negative factor in most people's view of us. As from the mundane persepctive we would be eliminating innocent students who had not yet done anything wrong."

Task Forces
The Magitech Department can contribute [5 CRE, 1 DES].

To the Lorekeepers

Spoiler

Show

We anticipated shortages and have sufficient mana reserves so we will take the [1 Res] at this time.

We know that the Reclaimers would be interested in such an expedition.

To Ruby Marshall

Spoiler

Show

We agree in principal with the idea, but what do you see such a party doing, and what would it require from it's members?

To the Arsenal Master

Spoiler

Show

We will have no hesitation in providing such support if it becomes an issue. We are of the belief that the most qualified individual should be in charge. And the race or construction of that individual has no bearing on the matter. You will however need to be able to prove your qualification to the rest of the department. That is something we cannot back on your words alone.

Also this will take some time to set up. Which is beneficial as it has come to our attention that the new Peace Directive may call into question the legality of a Hall leadership change if it were to occur now.

To the Mindcrafters

Spoiler

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We had already planned for it to occur next month. This is not something we do hastily. The question of Qualification is a very important one that should be considered deeply and carefully. And we intend to handle the matter with all due care.

Reclaimers

Spoiler

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Unfortunately we can't provide more than [1 DES] at this time. The Apprentice Magitech Project is requiring the full focus of all our resources. We would have more available next month if you are willing to wait however.

Also the Lorekeepers have contacted us about the Adori City. So they may be willing to aid in such an expedition.

Theists [PM]

Spoiler

Show

"Unfortunately we would be the first to admit that our connections to other mages are lacking. We are focused on researching new lore and creating new devices. So we are quite capable of helping in the project to learn the nature of the Demiurge. But we lack much ability to convince anyone who is not already a supporter of the concept."

"We will see what we can do."

[Murska]

Task Forces

"That is an acceptable way to choose the leader. We can provide 8 DES and 2 POL, and probably more after some time."

Shadow Mask

Spoiler

Show

Potentially so. Not without knowing in advance what you would want it for.

Inquest [PM]

Spoiler

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I can do that.

As for the vote... maybe. It's a delicate matter, to balance between strong leadership and too much centralization.

Gerthusen [4]

Spoiler

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I've heard rumours that make me think of you and your quest. Unfortunately, if I've heard them, so have others - there is probably not too much time to waste.

I may have acquired the critical piece of your puzzle - unless you know of a better source, perhaps you might wish to arrange the purchase (and transportation?) of such.

For old friends, the price shan't be much.

~Maester Blake

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Solaris
MAN: 3

Executive Council

Tower Security

Ruby Marshall: "I guess we're going to come up against the law of diminishing returns at some point. Anyway, if we're going to stick with the Tower Archives... what I'm seeing here is that we have 5 RES in total between your contributions and mister Turen's, while the Archivist is only asking for 2 RES as far as you've told us."

"Would using all of that RES in the Tower Archives give us better results? Or would 2 RES by itself bring us to the limit of what the Tower Archives can do for us? If the latter is the case, could you cover that requirement for us? Or would you prefer that mister Turen cover the expenses?"

Proposal by Solaris Summerscent: Subtle Weapons

"While we're at it, if I may submit a new proposal? I would like to advocate that Subtle Weapons be funded as a Tower Project to supplement the efforts of the Security Task Force in the short term, and as an additional tool in the Tower's arsenal against external threats in the long term. As some of my esteemed fellow Ritualists like to say, 'the Tower needs teeth'. And I can't say I disagree with that sentiment."

"With Subtle Weapons in play, the Tower gains the option to remove our enemies from the board through indirect and covert means, while keeping its involvement untraceable. It is the right tool in certain circumstance, a keen scalpel for situations where the blunt hammer of Weapons of War or Elemental Hosts would not be appropriate. As such, I recommend this Project as a sound investment for the ensured security of the Tower and its Mages."

Tower Intelligence

"I think discussion on this topic has stalled for some time now. As far as I can tell from the Minutes, it's presently established that the Seat of Shadow will confirm Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers as Department Projects to resolve the issue of Tower Intelligence. They will not be funded as Tower Projects, as mister Mask does not accept the condition that the Supreme Chancellor would choose the Project Leader. Am I correct?"

Proposal by Solaris Summerscent: Astrological Charts

"In that case, I would like to advocate that Astrological Charts be funded as a Tower Project, to complement the intelligence operations of the Seat of Shadow. The art of divination and future reading has proven its capability in determining the course of World events, and calculating the Fate that the present course of history will lead the Tower to."

"With this level of foresight, I forecast that the Seat of Shadow's Projects would see a boost in its efficiency and effectiveness. This is because, with the forewarning that the Stars can offer, the efforts of both Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers can be fine-tuned to determine the details that would lead up to the... interesting events that the Tower may wish to see come to pass, or to avoid altogether. As such, I recommend this Project as a sound investment for complementing the Tower's eyes and ears with a dose of futuresight."

Task Forces

"I think miss Marshall is on to something there. Yes, I'll agree with miss Fortescue's suggestion that the Department which contributed most to a Task Force should select who's in charge of said Task Force, and that the Task Forces themselves be reviewed at a later date."

Tower Markets

Ruby Marshall: "But it was you, along with mister Turen, who said you'd be more willing to consider the Project if the focus is shifted back to its original scope of trade. As such, may I assume that this is your preference for the record?"

Shadow Mask: "But if that is so, then why would you nominate the Collectors of Woe, mister Mask? Your prior reasoning was that they would regulate the mercantile side of the Project, and unless you know something I don't about them, they don't seem especially suited for being the eyes and ears that the intelligence side requires. That latter part was what I originally nominated the Hidden Eyes for, after all."

Sir Rupert Grand: "I don't disagree with the fact that a mercantile outreach to the Malvoc Consortium would be necessary to counteract Elreath's efforts in the South, Sir Grand. However, I have to say I'm still not seeing what exactly about it is more pressing than the same for Telamore against the Elvish Kingdom's in the North, or exploiting Mulden's anxieties about the Red Continent's unification to our profit. As far as I can tell, all three prospects are deserving of equal investment of effort."

"But, you are the Head of World Affairs. Perhaps you possess some sort of context that we aren't aware of, Sir Grand. Is there anything you think we really should know, that you would like to share? I might change my mind about that, if it's convincing."

Spoiler: Executive Council Minutes (Public)

Show

Executive Council
1st Meeting

Date: [Turn 4] (OOC: Insert official date here.)

Participants:

• Department of Initiations: Illarius Weymond [Sigma]
• Department of History: Barus Turen [Lorekeepers]
• Department of World Affairs: Sir Rupert Grand [Society of WG]
• Department of Tower Affairs: Ruby Marshall [Energy Technicians]
• Department of Warmagic: Caldwin Buras [Internal Security]
• Seat of Power: Anise Fortescue [Uplift]
• Seat of Shadow: "Shadow Mask"
• Seat of Magitech: Artificer Madeline Olritz [Clockwork Cult]
• Seat of Ritual Magic: Alchemist Solaris Summerscent [Atelier Solaris]
• Seat of Fringe Magic: Dr. Passtrum [Hospitium]

Purpose:

To address the issues that are affecting the Tower at present. These are;

• Tower Military
• Tower Intelligence
• Tower Reputation
• Interdepartmental Issues
• Failure to Communicate I (% Chance for problems with Projects)
• Tower Security (Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, Disappearances, Unrest)
• Incompetence I (1st Department Trait is disabled)
• Personnel Shortage I (Factions no longer receive 1 Stat Growth)
• Energy Shortage I: (Faction's Mana Income = 0)
• Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment I

In addition, the position of the Dawn Lord should be discussed and voted on.

---

Spoiler: Query: Availability of Tower resources for additional Tower Projects

Show

Response by Bursar Laurie: The Tower Council can fund two extra Projects at maximum.

Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That if it is a choice between funding extra Projects and funding the Departments, that the latter should be preferable.

Response by Bursar Laurie: That funding Tower Projects would not affect present funding of Departments, but may have an effect on future funding increases

Aye: Turen (History)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

Show

Query by Sir Rupert Grand (World Affairs): Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by Bursar Laurie: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That expanding the Project to include forensic accounting may not be necessary, given other Projects being maintained by the Tower.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal can certainly be considered with the omission of the forensic accounting portion.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Concurrence with Turen's comment, and that the proposal as-is risks spoiling relations between the Tower and other nations.

Query by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Eye of the North should not be nominated as Project Assistant, due to poor fit.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Agreement with Fortescue's statement, thus nomination for Eye of the North is dropped.
• Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Conquistadors be nominated as Project Assistant.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Conquistadors are not suitable, but Hidden Eye should be nominated instead.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.
• Follow-up by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That although it can be beneficial in acquiring raw resources for the Tower, the benefit is not large enough to justify the cost in Tower funding.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Reiteration of acquisition opportunities that Tower Markets can open up, especially in terms of Magitech artefacts.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That there is merit in maintaining markets as a way of furthering the Tower's interests in the outside world.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): A brief summary of diplomatic opportunities that can be exploited with Tower Markets.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.
• Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Collectors of Woe would be more suitable, at least for the case of the Adori enclave.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Merchants of Wonder would be more suitable for retrieving artefacts from mundane hands.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets will actively work with Halls in any Department who have a stake in certain trade negotiations.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That only Collectors of Woe can ensure that trade would be tightly regulated.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Passtrum (Fringe), Mask (Shadow)
Abstain: Grand (World Affairs)

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal should be revised as a purely economic asset of the Tower, instead of an intelligence asset.

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That she would prefer not to vote about voting.

Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Statement of preference for intelligence focus, balanced with mercantile concerns.

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Why Mask would nominate Collectors of Woe in this case, as they lack expertise in espionage.

Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That either is acceptable, the main concern is that the Project should be oriented South.

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Request of reason why South should be given priority over North or West.

Tower Markets as Intelligence asset: -
Tower Markets as Economic asset: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Tower Law is clarified and made explicit to prevent law being taken into individual's hands and preserve Tower authority.

Show

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That it is ideal to have an independent branch of the Council handling legal matters, under the auspices of the Lawspeaker.

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the following need to be clarified - Departments are under jurisdiction of Heads; disputes between Department Heads are under jurisdiction of the Lawspeaker and the Executive Council; that there should be an outline for acceptable levels of reprisal for all Departments to follow.

• Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Weymond's statements.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the current arrangement of Tower Law being handled by Tower Council is preferable.
• Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): Concurrence with Weymond's statements, and recommendation that charges of incompetence be retained as sufficient grounds for action.
• Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Concurrence with Fortescue's statement, and recommendation that new Tower Laws be drawn up.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Partial concurrence with Mask's statement, and recommendation that present Tower Law be reviewed at the very least.
• Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That revision of Tower Law may be useful, but must be undertaken with extreme care to ensure useful portions are not thrown out.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That the Seat of Shadow addresses Tower Intelligence by confirming Shadow Agents and Shadow Whispers as Department Projects

Show

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That as Invisible Staff Rickton is not an Executive Council member, his proposal be confirmed and seconded.

• Confirmed by Grand (World Affairs).
• Seconded by Turen (History).

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That the Tower Council be queried about possibility of additional funding for executing aforementioned Projects, without infringing on prerogatives of Department Head (Shadow).

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): How would Project Leaders be selected for such Council-sponsored Projects?
• Response by Bursar Laurie: One of either Project may be funded, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Rejection of funding under this condition.

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Astrological Charts be funded by Tower to complement Projects from Seat of Shadow

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the Department of Initiation addresses Incompetence I and Personnel Shortage by supporting Admission and Education as Department Projects.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the Proposal seems favorable.
Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Education seems favorable, but Culling should be favored over Admissions.
Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Admission seems favorable, but Anti-Infiltration should be favored over Education.
Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That Culling is not presently favorable.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That Turen disagrees with Olritz's statement.

Suggestion by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That the Tower fund an additional Project to put Anti-Infiltration in play.

• Comment by Bursar Laurie: That Tower Council can fund Anti-Infiltration, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That this condition is acceptable, although Inquest (Initiation) is a strong candidate to consider for the post.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Passtrum (Fringe), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That the Department of Tower Affairs and the Seat of Magitech will be responsible for addressing Energy Shortage I

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Task Forces

Show

Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Stating the need to determine who would be in charge of each Task Force.

• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That the Councillor whose Department contributed the most to each Task Force gets to choose its leader.
• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Concurrence with Fortescue's suggestion, with the addendum that Task Forces be discussed further in detail down the line.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That he doesn't mind voting for Task Force leaders.
• Response by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Marshall's statement.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): Concurrence with Marshall's statement.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Concurrence with Marshall's statement.

Suggestion by Dr Passtrum (Fringe): That each Task Force be re-evaluated every month, in case more urgent issues crop up over time.

Spoiler: Security Task Force: Resolves Tower Security

Show

Contributions: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES), History (2 DES, 2 MAN), Ritual Magic (2 DES), Fringe (4 DES, 2 MAN), Magitech (1 DES), Initiation (8 DES)

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Subtle Weapons be funded by Tower to complement STF

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Communications Task Force: Resolves Failure to Communicate I

Show

Contributions: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (?), History (1 CRE), Ritual Magic (3 CRE), Fringe (4 CRE), Magitech (5 CRE)

Spoiler: Interdepartmental Cooperation Task Force: Resolves Interdepartmental Issues

Show

Comment by Barus Turen (History): Can also be used to resolve Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment as well.

Contributions: World Affairs (3 POL), Fringe (3 POL), Initiation (2 POL), History (1 POL), Ritual Magic (3 POL)

Spoiler: Proposal by Ruby Marshal (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs' contribution of 3 RES for Task Forces could be used to find information in the Libraries that might be useful in resolving the Tower's issues.

Show

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the Tower Archives is the most likely place to find such information.

• Response by Ruby Marshal (Energy Technicians): That Tower Archives will provide information useful for STF and CTF, in return for 2 RES.
• Comment by Barus Turen (History): That History will contribute the 2 RES necessary.
• Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Affairs' contribution should be more than sufficient.

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That a fourth Task Force should be formed, to use RES contributions from Departments to find more useful information from the other Libraries.

• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the idea is worth consideration, but limited Tower resources may mean it's not possible to implement for now.

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That discussion and votes for the Lord-Protector Elections be carried out.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That either Ray or Oritz will be their choice, as Cross seems too unstable.
Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That it is time for the Tower to liberate the Chained.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That more arguments should be heard on the suitability of each candidate.

• Addendum by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Concurrence with Shadow Mask's statement.

Orsitz: Buras (Warmagic), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Olritz (Magitech)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History)
Cross: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That the strategy for dealing with Elemental Surge should be determined.

Show

Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That both Ray's and Cross' plans have their merits.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That it is unlikely that cooperating with Dragonblood Empire and Iron Lords would work out well.

Query by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Would it be possible to bind the elementals, or drain their energy for the Tower's use?

Comment by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Cross's plan has the best chance of success.

• Addendum by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Cross can secure a northern region to threaten the Dragonblood Empire's northern cities, and secure alliance with Telamore at the same time. This would buy time to resolve the Elreath situation, and demon extermination should be carried out to secure world approval.
• Comment by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That Grand's plan is sound, but should be kept a secret from Dragonblood Empire.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Grand's plan is too complex, and would leave the Tower in a vulnerable position.

Orsitz: Marshall (Tower Affairs)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Passtrum (Fringe)
Cross: Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power), Weymond (Initiation), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Abstain: Olritz (Magitech)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Society of WG and Department of History will investigate the feasibility of recovering the Stormwatcher.

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Query by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): The present state of the Tower Reputation Issue

Show

Response by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Generally pessimistic outlook for the Tower on this Issue.

• Lord-Protector: If Admiral Ray is elected, her open policies should improve the Tower's standing.
• Contract Mages: Would show that Mages are useful and can be dealt with reliably, but not sufficient to change general opinion of the Tower. One more Project required to this effect, preferably two.
• Culling: It would mean a lot if Tower is seen dealing with Warlocks, including Warlock Pirates
• Demon Extermination: Safe bet as Demons are more hated, and it would counteract Demon-related slander about the Tower.
• Enlightenment: With sufficient resources, Sir Grand plans to implement this Project to share knowledge with the world, and boost the Tower's image.
• Elvish Crimes: If these can be proven, Tower can be seen as heroes.

Response from Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Culling Warlocks is more likely to give the Tower a negative reputation.

---

Proposals Effected

Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Stormwatcher Report

• Actions Taken: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday has provided the Stormwatcher Records, with sensitive information redacted and restricted to Executive Council.

Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Peace Directive (1 Turn)

Aye: Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History), Passturm (Fringe), Olritz (Magitech), Grand (World Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: -
Abstain: Mask (Shadow)

• Actions Taken: Peace Directive is Passed with immediate effect.

Dr Passtrum (Hospitium), Ruby Marshall(Energy Technicians): Task Forces

Aye: Passtrum (Fringe), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Grand (World Affairs), Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power)
Nay: -

• Actions Taken: Task Forces is Passed, and will be formed with contributions from all Departments

Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): Resolution of Failure to Communicate I

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs is concentrating on Energy Efficiency, and as such is not able to contribute.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

Illarius Weymond (Sigma): Resolution of Tower Security and Interdepartmental Issues

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Query by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the issues of formation of security force, expected level of contributions from each Department, and Project Leader needs to be determined.

• Addendum by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That the present safety mechanism is post-factum verification by the Tower, that individual Departments work with different interpretations of Tower Law, and that jurisdiction of inter-Department issues has yet to be resolved.

Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork): That Department of Warmagic should bear most of the responsibility for staffing and leading the force.

• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): Concurrence with Olritz's statement, and that this should be kept in mind when allocating resources.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.

Concern raised by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That it may not be prudent to focus on internal security, when external threats to the Tower are extant.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent disagrees with Turen's statement.
• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That Buras disagrees with Turen's statement.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

---

Spoiler: Exchange

Show

Project Referendum

"Thank you, Dagger Brotherhood, Grand Astrologist. I will take a few minutes to make my decision..."

Great Tower Library Expedition

"So the Eldritch Collections Team has gotten back to me. The thing is, their impending Adori Enclave expedition means they can only spare Access to the [3rd Activation] of their Great Tower Library. Purifiers, Dagger Brotherhood, how do you propose we should proceed from here?"

Spoiler: Purifiers

Show

True, fair enough. This makes it easier then.

If mister Orsini accepts my condition, I will authorize his Hall Project beyond Grey level. If he quits his position as chief of the Soul Alchemists and a competent replacement is found for him, I will also authorize it. Otherwise, it is not going to happen, mister Angelo. I've already explained why.

Spoiler: Merchants of Wonder, Reclaimers, Lightbringers

Show

Merchants: "I believe I will do that, yes. It's becoming clear to me that mister Mask is making rather unreasonable demands for some reason, and his vote is not worth the concessions he's asking for. I think I'll rather snub him, if it means I can get more votes from the rest of the Executive Council isntead."

Lightbringers: "Great! Speaking of which, Sir Grand - your Department Head - has been insisting on orienting Tower Markets towards the South in the Executive Council discussions, and has strongly pushed for your colleagues, the Conquistadors, to be the other Project Assistant alongside the Merchants. I can't say I agree with him; his insistence will take away any attention we can give to other regions of the world, and I believe this will be to our detriment."

"I'd much rather that he nominates you as the other Project Assistant instead. Do you think you could weigh in with him, and try to convince him to do so as a compromise? As one of the Halls under his Department, he may be more willing to listen to you. Try this angle; engaging in mercantile dealing around the world could help our Tower Reputation somewhat, by making us more relatable at the last. I know he's somewhat worried about that."

To all: "So, are we agreed on the formation of the Market Party? If so, here's a mission statement I wrote up. Maybe we can use this for the announcement?"

"The Tower must not isolate itself from the rest of the World, lest we run out of the resources we need to practice our craft with no hope of resupply. We intend to establish trade ties between the Tower and the rest of the world. And by so doing, we aim to elevate the Tower back to the heights of its glory, through the rejuvenation of the wealth that once filled its Vaults to the brim."

Spoiler: OOC

Show

If they agree to form the Market Party, use this quote in your next update Thel.

Spoiler: Eldritch Collections Team.

Show

Oh, I see. Thanks for the clarification, I'll get back to you soon!

Spoiler: Vault Guard

Show

To be fair, I too am leery about this mister Warner, because it certainly seems like something our new Supreme Chancellor would do. First, there's the coup of the previous Tower Council. Also, you may like to know that in addition to this condition, he asked for a vote of confidence from myself as well. And in the Executive Council, it appears he has instructed the Bursar to demand that he be given the right to appoint Project Leaders, if the Department Heads want Tower funding for any Project.

This looks like a consolidation of power to me, mister Warner. Which is why I can see him doing what you fear, if it would help him in that goal.

Spoiler: Tower Archives

Show

Huh, I see. That would make a certain sort of sense. Anyway, thanks Archivist, you've been a great help!

[Nemesis67]

Lorekeepers

Task Forces

"I agree with Councilors Marshall and Solaris."

Tower Markets

I would prefer to see a Tower Markets geared towards assisting our foreign policy and reputation, yes. I think the additional funding necessary to add forensic accounting can be better spent. However, I am still unconvinced that Tower Markets is one of the best two choices for Tower Projects.

Tower Projects

"As we've discussed, the Task Forces address the problems facing the Tower internally. Since we only have the funding for potentially two Tower Projects, those should address our external issues, complementing Department Projects. As such, any suggested Project for the Tower Council to fund should work to fix our Military, Reputation, or Intelligence. Given the Department Projects currently maintained, I think Intelligence is properly addressed. Political Intelligence, Military Intelligence, X-Magic, and potentially others from the Seat of Shadow. So the Tower Projects should address our Reputation or our Military.

In terms of our Reputation, Mr. Grand has suggested Culling, Demonic Extermination, and Enlightenment. I believe Age of Elves Research or Revision Project would assist here as well, countering propaganda. Lady Solaris has suggested Tower Markets in this light. Contract Mages is really the only Department Project we currently have working on this.

For Military, Mr. Buras would know best, but I would imagine War Mobilization and Weapons of War should help rebuild our armies. Elemental Hosts is currently the only Project arming us.

Without knowing what other Department Projects will be chosen, I'd say one Tower Project to assist our Reputation and one for our Military makes sense to me."

Society of Worldly Gentlemen (PM)

Spoiler

Show

"Exactly our problem, unfortunately.

Do you have a way of contacting Shylla? If she can unlock the Shadow Paths and if we trust her enough to end up wherever she points, that could greatly expedite the journey."

Reclaimers (11)

Spoiler

Show

The Clockwork Cult mentioned you were interested in an expedition to the Adori city. The Department of History is trying to get to all of the sites of interest this month, but it's pulling us quite thin. Outside assistance could ensure it is possible.

[Thelonius]

Executive Council

Tower Security

Ruby Marshal: “The Archivist confirms, that at [5 RES] he can find information, that may be equivalent to [9 DES/CRE]. That would be limit of the Archives.”

Subtle Weapons

Brusar Laurie: “I find no reason to allocate funds to Intelligence, when so many projects are already being executed in this area.”

Ruby Marshall: “I agree, it’s unneeded. We have put enough attention to this area already.”
Shadow Mask: “There can never be enough intelligence.”
Sir Rupert Grand: “Hmm… I would prefer a project that improves our standing in the world.”
Anise Fortescue: “You need 8 votes, to force the issue. I think I’ll go with nay, so unless somebody change their mind, the motion would fail.”

Tower Intelligence

Shadow Mask: “Yes, somewhat like that.”

Astrological Sharts

Brusar Laurie: “I’m willing to keep an open mind. Can you send me minutes of discussion about it. I’d like to see arguments for and against.”

Ruby Marshall: “Isn’t it the third Project from your Department, that you propose be funded by the Tower? I vote Nay.”

Shadow Mask: “I fear, that so-called Astrological Charts is a conman’s game, that only Ritualists seem to believe in for some inexplicable reason. Divinations are crude tools, that have some uses, but Astrology is an attempt at Prophecy, masquerading as magic. That is the bad kind of Fringe. I vote Nay.”
Anise Fortescue: “I’m not against it. I vote Aye.”

Ser Rupert Grand: “Well… I am somewhat more open minded regarding Prophecy, considering the Prophetess of the Rose, and I...”

Shadow Mask: “She is a Pawn of Court of Shadows. It’s clear as day. The timeframe matches. The former senior Mages wouldn’t just cast magic removing backlash out of nowhere - something like that takes years of preparation. And it requires knowledge and support that only Court can provide. So the Court Shades extracted their price - a pawn, they could use to influence the world directly. Frankly, we are not paying enough attention to the so-called Prophetess. The Court is seldom good news, when it’s not under the Shadow of the Tower.”

Ser Rupert Grand: “Ahem. I would ask not to be interrupted, with your unfounded theories, Shadow Mask. This is neither time, nor place for such speculation. I’m, as respected Brusar, willing to give it a chance, if I can see specifications of the project and it’s value.”

Tower Markets

Ruby Marshall: “Indeed, I would prefer focus on economy. Well, at this point, I’m uncertain if this is an idea with merit and benefit for the Tower, or just your way to fund projects of your Department.”

Shadow Mask: “I’m for intelligence focus - Hidde Eyes for spying, Collectors of Woe for the mercantile part - prudent trade.”

Sir Rupert Grand: “Well, the Elreath are renegades, with Circle’s magic at their disposal. They can do untold damage with it and we can benefit immensely from retrieving what is ours.”

Ruby Marshall: “I think Summerscent is spot on here. Why exactly should Elreath receive such concern? This seems to be motivated primarily by the dreams of plunder against the Sky Island. We should focus on dealing with current enemies, rather than creating new ones.”

Atelier Solaris

Exchanges [6]

Spoiler

Show

Purifiers “We can delay our expedition. Certainly Great Library won’t disappear in one month.”

Merchants, Lightbringers, Reclaimers [3]

Spoiler

Show

Lightbringers: “We are unlikely to persuade him - he’s too aligned with Conquistadors. Maybe if he sees it as the only way to get somebody from the Department in on the project, and if the project itself was focused on improving our standing, it could work.”

[OOC: Party will be formed at EoT.]

Purifiers [3]

Spoiler

Show

“I understand your conditions. To be clear, if hypothetically, they were accepted, what guarantees are provided that Mage Buras stops this arrest notion. Can I have a confirmation, that he would pledge to stand down, if your conditions were fulfilled?”

Vault Guard [3]

Spoiler

Show

“I see. Perhaps then it’s better not to take this deal. We can get through the wards on our own, eventually.”

Sigma

Inquest [PM]

Spoiler

Show

“Perhaps. Though I would think, that if there was time, when strong leadership was needed, it would be now.”

Shadow Mask [4]

Spoiler

Show

“Oh. For example, in the matter of Lawspeaker's vacant seat, perhaps you could support a worthy candidate?”

Lorekeepers

Society of WG [PM]

Spoiler

Show

“I believe I have means to contact Shylla. I think with my talents, I can persuade them to trust us to unseal a Shadow Path. Though if we are going with plan Cross proposed, it would be a delicate matter.”

Reclaimers [11]

Spoiler

Show

“We can send [1 MAN], [2 CRE] and [1 RES] for the expedition.”

Clockwork Cult

Ruby Marshall [2]

Spoiler

Show

“The primary purpose would be political conservatism - we’ll work to steer the Tower towards logic and reason, keep the power-lust of certain parties in check and work on providing unity and stability. At this point what’s important is gaining sufficient weight to effect things - find those willing to join and persuade them to add their strength to ours.”

Arsenal Master [2]

Spoiler

Show

“Acknowledged.”

Mindcrafters [2]

Spoiler

Show

“We’ll be preparing for it then.”

Theists [PM]

Spoiler

Show

“And yet you have gained the Seat of Magitech. Certainly, it shows some support and respect for you among its factions.”

“Well, you could certainly assist in advancing projects, that would reveal secrets of the Tower - such as one led by Descend. And we’ll find ways to support you in turn.”

[Imperial Psycho]

Internal Security

Military Affairs
"As I mentionned previously, we must focus on our own base before we concern ourselves with a force that can strike outwards. As such, I move that the Council funds the Tower Defence project. Surely, we can all see the necessity of protecting the Tower in which we live."

Votes
Astrological Charts:Nay
Subtle Weapons: I can see the utility in this. Intelligence and espionage are very different things. This project is proposing to give us a way of striking out in a subtle fashion. An option short of marching to war si always valuable. I vote yea, despite the quorum against.

Supreme Chancellor Lihoday [PM]

Spoiler

Show

"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me."

"To address the elephant in the room, as to the business with the criminal Orsini. As you are no doubt aware, it was an extenuated circumstance. With the failure and resignation of Lawspeaker Watcher, normal channels were unavailable.. The authority of the old council had collapsed utterly. "

"You saw this too, Supreme Chancellor. Sometimes circumstances require unusual measures. I took every precaution necessary to avoid the arrest turning into a battle. The disruption was minor. It is unfortunate that he was able to slip our grasp, but still, the man was an attempted murderer. Leaving him in control of a department was simply not an option."

[Nemesis67]

Lorekeepers

Tower Security

"It seems prudent to do all we can in addressing our problems. [5 RES] to Tower Archivist seems a good idea. Though, I admit, as the Head of History, I am biased towards consulting the archives.

Though there is a question as to what to look for. Currently, our joint investments in the Task Forces are as follows:

STF: 30 stats

CTF: 18 stats

ICTF: 12 stats

Warmagic is the only department to not commit anything yet, but they are also likely needed in the Dawn Empire. As such, should our research aid the STF or CTF?"

Surge Strategem

"I will vote for Mr. Grand's strategic plan, concerning the Dawn Empire, and Admiral Ray's solution to the Surge. I think even making an attempt at diplomacy should help our joint Reputation, especially with the Admiral being the likely Dawn Lord. And releasing Elementals potentially into civilians would damage that. Her trade policies should alleviate the food problems, without needing to seize the farmland."

Society of Worldly Gentlemen (PM)

Spoiler

Show

"Yes, it would... We think it would be best to convince her. It shows we're coming in good faith and not simply trying to finish her off, or anything. We will advocate for your Surge strategy in the Executive Council, but it's not looking likely.

As well, Mr. Shaan will be running for Lawspeaker. Given that things are changing in terms of who makes the laws, the position is likely to be stripped of a great deal of responsibilities, but still retain a seat on the Council. Our intention is to alter its role to one of investigation and information. Within the Tower, rooting out any infiltrators as well as the expected investigation and judgement of crimes. And without, serving as the focal point of our intelligence networks. The Tower Spymaster, in effect. As the Department Head of World Affairs and our closest ally, we want to cooperate with you to protect our interests in the world. As such, we'd appreciate your vote for Lawspeaker, to further that end."

Shadow Teatime (PM)

Spoiler

Show

"The Society has a contact point. We'll let them convince her to unlock a Path. I don't want to gamble on ending up close by. We're already trusting her not to Chain Dr. Passtrum. "

Supreme Chancellor Lyhoday (PM)

Spoiler

Show

Ser Murin pauses for a moment, mentally consulting the elaborate conversational chain Mr. Turen had sketched out and implanted into his memories.

"Our fear with an appointment is that it will look like our vote of confidence was bought, which invalidates it. Even if the rest of the Department Head vote for it, the initiator being named Lawspeaker looks suspicious and would cast doubt on what possibly happened behind closed doors. Instead, if Mr. Shaan is elected by the Executive Council, and then independently initiates a vote of confidence, it will be fair. An unstained show of support."

Elfbane (PM)

Spoiler

Show

[OOC: Before proceeding, is this a PM I have to pay a VIP for? Because I'd prefer not to spend my Level 3 on a PM, but I will if they want to meet.]

Reclaimers (11)

Spoiler

Show

Wonderful. The Heralds will be in touch to handle logistics.

[OOC: Meaning end of conversation and they'll be included in the EoT action, unless they have more to say.]

[Imperial Psycho]

Internal Security

Security Task Force
"Ah, I had pledged my support to the Security Task Force initially. Allow me to clarify the numbers. I can pledge the full force that my faction can call upon, [9 DES]. Internal Security is, after all, a matter close to my own heart."

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Solaris
MAN: 3

Executive Council

Tower Security

"If that's the case, I think it would be a worthwhile investment. And since miss Marshall and mister Turen have already volunteered to contribute the necessary RES, perhaps they should be the ones who get a say whether to move forward with it? Either way, I'm in favour of it."

Subtle Weapons

Bursar Laurie: "As mister Buras said, Subtle Weapons would be a valuable tool in the Tower's arsenal. Beyond intelligence, it can be the subtle knife that the Tower thrusts into the spines of its enemies, when they're focusing on the obvious blade of the Tower's conventional forces."

Sir Rupert Grand: "I'd say when it comes to that, making sure that we deal with factors that would harm our image in the eyes of others is about as important as attempting to bolster our standing in the first place. The author of the book which espouses the chaining of Mages comes to mind. Have we talked about how we're going to deal with whoever it is, by the way?"

Tower Intelligence

"Alright, I guess there's no need to call for a vote here then. I declare this proposal rejected."

Astrological Charts

Bursar Laurie: "But of course, Bursar. I'll compile it for you when the discussion about it is done."

Sir Rupert Grand: Of course. Give me a minute, and I'll have the specifics for the Council's perusal."

Shadow Mask: "Mister Mask, you equate an important aspect of the Ritualists' art with the most outlandish aspects of Fringe Magic; I will say naught except to agree to disagree, and respect your right to your opinion. However, you also mentioned that we are not paying enough attention to the Prophetess of the Rose, in your opinion. If nothing else, if you equate Astrology with what she does, would it not at least be worth having a source of insight into the Prophetess' motivations and likely actions within the Tower? I'm sure your Shadow Agents can find something useful to work with, if they have access to that insight."

Tower Markets

Ruby Marshall: "Okay, I'll note that. And if you're uncertain as to the merit of Tower Markets... well, let me put it this way. Among the Issues that we're discussing in this Council today, one of these is that of the Energy Shortage being faced by the Tower, as you would know all too well. How do you think that came about? I'm almost certain it's the result of our predecessors failing to manage our resources effectively, and neglecting to implement supply lines that would have replenished those resources to make up for their expenditure."

"And that's just for Mana; I'm sure we would come across more Shortages of other critical resources in the Tower, further down the line. We're going to need a more effective way of managing distribution and supply, and Tower Markets is ideally suited to that end. This Project can source Mana from external sources to make up for any shortfall in the short term, and possibly establish a more permanent supply line in the long term. And I'm speaking only of Mana alone, but it can be equally applied to any important resources the Tower really cannot afford to run short of, as well."

Shadow Mask: "The Collectors of Woe may be prudent, but I'm less confident in their ability to actually conduct trade. And if they can't expand our trade links to the fullest potential that the Merchants of Wonder could, how would they provide enough data for the Hidden Eye to work with? I'm sorry, mister Mask, but I don't see how your suggestion would work out. And if you won't accept it otherwise, I guess I'll deal."

Sir Rupert Grand: "That may indeed be the case, Sir Grand. But what damage could they do to the Tower, that the Elves can't manage should they bring Telamore into their influence? What threat could Elreath pose, that the Red Continent can't match should they overrun Mulden and leave nothing between themselves and the Tower? And that's not forgetting the rumoured Telamorian noble that's in the running for the throne of the Dragonblood Empire; should that come to pass, and Telamore be under the influence of the Elves and not the Tower, we may suddenly find ourselves besieged from both North and East all at once."

"I'm certainly aware of the need to counter Elreath's efforts in the South, Sir Grand. I'm just not seeing so far what about it necessitates more time and attention than the threats menacing the Tower from other parts of the world."

Task Forces

"Oh, a slight adjustment on my Seat's contributions, by the way. Instead of [2 DES, 3 CRE and 3 POL], Ritual Magic will now contribute [2 DES, 3 MAN, 3 CRE and 1 POL]."

Spoiler: Executive Council Minutes (Public)

Show

Executive Council
1st Meeting

Date: [Turn 4] (OOC: Insert official date here.)

Participants:

• Department of Initiations: Illarius Weymond [Sigma]
• Department of History: Barus Turen [Lorekeepers]
• Department of World Affairs: Sir Rupert Grand [Society of WG]
• Department of Tower Affairs: Ruby Marshall [Energy Technicians]
• Department of Warmagic: Caldwin Buras [Internal Security]
• Seat of Power: Anise Fortescue [Uplift]
• Seat of Shadow: "Shadow Mask"
• Seat of Magitech: Artificer Madeline Olritz [Clockwork Cult]
• Seat of Ritual Magic: Alchemist Solaris Summerscent [Atelier Solaris]
• Seat of Fringe Magic: Dr. Passtrum [Hospitium]

Purpose:

To address the issues that are affecting the Tower at present. These are;

• Tower Military
• Tower Intelligence
• Tower Reputation
• Interdepartmental Issues
• Failure to Communicate I (% Chance for problems with Projects)
• Tower Security (Gobblers, Leech Fraternity, Disappearances, Unrest)
• Incompetence I (1st Department Trait is disabled)
• Personnel Shortage I (Factions no longer receive 1 Stat Growth)
• Energy Shortage I: (Faction's Mana Income = 0)
• Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment I

In addition, the position of the Dawn Lord should be discussed and voted on.

---

Spoiler: Query: Availability of Tower resources for additional Tower Projects

Show

Response by Bursar Laurie: The Tower Council can fund two extra Projects at maximum.

Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That if it is a choice between funding extra Projects and funding the Departments, that the latter should be preferable.

Response by Bursar Laurie: That funding Tower Projects would not affect present funding of Departments, but may have an effect on future funding increases

Suggestion by Barus Turen: That funding be provided for one Tower Project for assisting the Tower's Reputation, and one Tower Project to complement the Tower's military strength.

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier):That Tower Markets be considered as a Project deserving investment by the Executive Council, due to information-gathering potential of forensic accounting practices.

Show

Query by Sir Rupert Grand (World Affairs): Reiterating the necessity of determining available funding that can be directed to this Project.

• Response by Bursar Laurie: That the proposal has merit, and will approve funding should the Executive Council vote in its favor.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That expanding the Project to include forensic accounting may not be necessary, given other Projects being maintained by the Tower.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal can certainly be considered with the omission of the forensic accounting portion.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Concurrence with Turen's comment, and that the proposal as-is risks spoiling relations between the Tower and other nations.

Query by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Noting that the Project would require additional development to fulfil both the original and expanded goals, who the Project Leader would be.

• Recommendation by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Solaris would be the Project Leader, but will have two Assistant Project Leaders - Merchants of Wonder & Eye of the North - assigned to her to assist in developing the necessary financial espionage techniques, on top of managing the original scope of the Project.

Follow-up by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That his Aye vote is conditional on Executive Council voting on Project Assistants.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Grand's condition is acceptable.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Eye of the North should not be nominated as Project Assistant, due to poor fit.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Agreement with Fortescue's statement, thus nomination for Eye of the North is dropped.
• Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Conquistadors be nominated as Project Assistant.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Conquistadors are not suitable, but Hidden Eye should be nominated instead.

Concern raised by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That this proposal demands additional Tower resources, when more critical issues remain unresolved.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can supplement the Tower's resources on top of providing intelligence, allowing for more Projects to be funded.
• Follow-up by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That although it can be beneficial in acquiring raw resources for the Tower, the benefit is not large enough to justify the cost in Tower funding.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Reiteration of acquisition opportunities that Tower Markets can open up, especially in terms of Magitech artefacts.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can also serve as a diplomatic tool.

• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That there is merit in maintaining markets as a way of furthering the Tower's interests in the outside world.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): A brief summary of diplomatic opportunities that can be exploited with Tower Markets.

Additional Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets can give Tower access to artefacts relevant to several Departments, not just Ritualists.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That while it could be useful for acquiring raw materials, the same cannot be said regarding the acquisition of artefacts.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the news of the Adori enclave proves otherwise, especially for Magitech and Shadow.
• Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Collectors of Woe would be more suitable, at least for the case of the Adori enclave.
• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That Merchants of Wonder would be more suitable for retrieving artefacts from mundane hands.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Markets will actively work with Halls in any Department who have a stake in certain trade negotiations.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That only Collectors of Woe can ensure that trade would be tightly regulated.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Passtrum (Fringe), Mask (Shadow)
Abstain: Grand (World Affairs)

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the proposal should be revised as a purely economic asset of the Tower, instead of an intelligence asset.

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That she would prefer not to vote about voting.

• Follow-up by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Statement of uncertainty whether Project is worth funding.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Energy Shortages proves the need for Tower Markets to manage distribution and supply of resources.

Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Statement of preference for intelligence focus, balanced with mercantile concerns.

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Why Mask would nominate Collectors of Woe in this case, as they lack expertise in espionage.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Project Assistants should be Hidden Eyes for the espionage side, and Collectors of Woe for trade side.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Statement of no confidence in viability of Project, without Merchants of Wonder.

Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That either is acceptable, the main concern is that the Project should be oriented South.

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Request of reason why South should be given priority over North or West.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Concurrence with Summerscent's query.
• Response by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Elreath are renegades with Circle's magic who can potentially do much damage with it, and Tower stands to benefit from retrieving its rightful property.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That it does not mean that Elreath poses more of a threat than the Elvish Kingdom or the Red Continent.

Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): Statement of preference for orienting Tower Markets towards supporting foreign policy and reputation, but not yet convinced it is worth the funding


Tower Markets as Intelligence asset: -
Tower Markets as Economic asset: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Tower Law is clarified and made explicit to prevent law being taken into individual's hands and preserve Tower authority.

Show

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That it is ideal to have an independent branch of the Council handling legal matters, under the auspices of the Lawspeaker.

Follow-up by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the following need to be clarified - Departments are under jurisdiction of Heads; disputes between Department Heads are under jurisdiction of the Lawspeaker and the Executive Council; that there should be an outline for acceptable levels of reprisal for all Departments to follow.

• Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Weymond's statements.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the current arrangement of Tower Law being handled by Tower Council is preferable.
• Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): Concurrence with Weymond's statements, and recommendation that charges of incompetence be retained as sufficient grounds for action.
• Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Concurrence with Fortescue's statement, and recommendation that new Tower Laws be drawn up.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Partial concurrence with Mask's statement, and recommendation that present Tower Law be reviewed at the very least.
• Comment by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That revision of Tower Law may be useful, but must be undertaken with extreme care to ensure useful portions are not thrown out.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Astrological Charts be funded by Tower to complement Projects from Seat of Shadow

Show

Comment by Bursar Laurie: That she would like to see documentation detailing the arguments for and against the proposal

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Agreement to send the Bursar the minutes.

Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That he is open to the idea, provided specifications are provided.

• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That she will provide the specifications shortly.

Aye: Fortescue (Power)
Nay: Marshall (Tower Affairs), Mask (Shadow), Buras (Warmagic)

Spoiler: Proposal by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That the Department of Initiation addresses Incompetence I and Personnel Shortage by supporting Admission and Education as Department Projects.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the Proposal seems favorable.
Suggestion by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Education seems favorable, but Culling should be favored over Admissions.
Suggestion by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That Admission seems favorable, but Anti-Infiltration should be favored over Education.
Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That Culling is not presently favorable.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.
• Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That Turen disagrees with Olritz's statement.

Suggestion by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That the Tower fund an additional Project to put Anti-Infiltration in play.

• Comment by Bursar Laurie: That Tower Council can fund Anti-Infiltration, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That this condition is acceptable, although Inquest (Initiation) is a strong candidate to consider for the post.

Aye: Weymond (Initiation), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Passtrum (Fringe), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Nay: -

Spoiler: Proposal by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That the Department of Tower Affairs and the Seat of Magitech will be responsible for addressing Energy Shortage I

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Task Forces

Show

Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Stating the need to determine who would be in charge of each Task Force.

• Suggestion by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That the Councillor whose Department contributed the most to each Task Force gets to choose its leader.
• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Concurrence with Fortescue's suggestion, with the addendum that Task Forces be discussed further in detail down the line.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That he doesn't mind voting for Task Force leaders.
• Response by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Concurrence with Marshall's statement.
• Response by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): Concurrence with Marshall's statement.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Concurrence with Marshall's statement.
• Response by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): Concurrence with Marshall's statement.

Suggestion by Dr Passtrum (Fringe): That each Task Force be re-evaluated every month, in case more urgent issues crop up over time.

Spoiler: Security Task Force: Resolves Tower Security

Show

Contributions: World Affairs (1 DES, 2 MAN), Shadow (1 DES, 2 MAN), Power (3 DES), History (2 DES, 2 MAN), Ritual Magic (2 DES, 3 MAN), Fringe (4 DES, 2 MAN), Magitech (1 DES), Initiation (8 DES), Warmagic (9 DES)

Spoiler: Proposal by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Subtle Weapons be funded by Tower to complement STF

Show

Comment by Bursar Laurie: That there's no reason to fund this Project, with other Projects already filling the need for intelligence.
Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Concurrence with the Bursar's statement.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Disagreement with the Bursar's statement.
Comment by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Statement of preference for a Project that will boost Tower's Reputation.


Aye: Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Communications Task Force: Resolves Failure to Communicate I

Show

Contributions: Tower Affairs (3 CRE), Power (2 CRE), History (?), History (1 CRE), Ritual Magic (3 CRE), Fringe (4 CRE), Magitech (5 CRE)

Spoiler: Interdepartmental Cooperation Task Force: Resolves Interdepartmental Issues

Show

Comment by Barus Turen (History): Can also be used to resolve Anti-Fringe Department Sentiment as well.

Contributions: World Affairs (3 POL), Fringe (3 POL), Initiation (2 POL), History (1 POL), Ritual Magic (1 POL)

Spoiler: Proposal by Ruby Marshal (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs' contribution of 3 RES for Task Forces could be used to find information in the Libraries that might be useful in resolving the Tower's issues.

Show

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That the Tower Archives is the most likely place to find such information.

• Response by Ruby Marshal (Energy Technicians): That Tower Archives will provide information useful for STF and CTF, in return for 2 RES.
• Comment by Barus Turen (History): That History will contribute the 2 RES necessary.
• Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Tower Affairs' contribution should be more than sufficient.

Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That a fourth Task Force should be formed, to use RES contributions from Departments to find more useful information from the other Libraries.

• Response by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the idea is worth consideration, but limited Tower resources may mean it's not possible to implement for now.

Follow-up by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Archives can provide up to [9 DES/CRE] worth for the Task Forces in exchange for the [5 CRE] already offered, but no more.

• Response by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That this seems like a good idea.
• Response by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): Concurrence with Turen's statement
• Suggestion by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Marshall and Turen move forward on this with immediate effect

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That discussion and votes for the Lord-Protector Elections be carried out.

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That either Ray or Oritz will be their choice, as Cross seems too unstable.
Comment by Anise Fortescue (Uplift): That it is time for the Tower to liberate the Chained.
Comment by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That more arguments should be heard on the suitability of each candidate.

• Addendum by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Concurrence with Shadow Mask's statement.

Orsitz: Buras (Warmagic), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Olritz (Magitech)
Ray: Grand (World Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History)
Cross: Fortescue (Power)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That the strategy for dealing with Elemental Surge should be determined.

Show

Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That both Ray's and Cross' plans have their merits.

• Response by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): That it is unlikely that cooperating with Dragonblood Empire and Iron Lords would work out well.

Query by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Would it be possible to bind the elementals, or drain their energy for the Tower's use?

Comment by Illarius Weymond (Sigma): That Cross's plan has the best chance of success.

• Addendum by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Cross can secure a northern region to threaten the Dragonblood Empire's northern cities, and secure alliance with Telamore at the same time. This would buy time to resolve the Elreath situation, and demon extermination should be carried out to secure world approval.
• Comment by Invisible Staff Rickton (Hidden Eye): That Grand's plan is sound, but should be kept a secret from Dragonblood Empire.
• Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Grand's plan is too complex, and would leave the Tower in a vulnerable position.

Comment by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That both Admiral Ray's and Sir Rupert Grand's plans be put into effect simultaneously, to ensure the Reputation of both Tower and Dawn Empire are not negatively affected.

Orsitz: Marshall (Tower Affairs)
Ray: Passtrum (Fringe), Turen (History)
Cross: Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power), Weymond (Initiation), Summerscent (Ritual Magic)
Grand: Grand (World Affairs), Turen (History)
Abstain: Olritz (Magitech)

Spoiler: Proposal by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): That Society of WG and Department of History will investigate the feasibility of recovering the Stormwatcher.

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

Spoiler: Query by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): The present state of the Tower Reputation Issue

Show

Response by Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Generally pessimistic outlook for the Tower on this Issue.

• Lord-Protector: If Admiral Ray is elected, her open policies should improve the Tower's standing.
• Contract Mages: Would show that Mages are useful and can be dealt with reliably, but not sufficient to change general opinion of the Tower. One more Project required to this effect, preferably two.
• Culling: It would mean a lot if Tower is seen dealing with Warlocks, including Warlock Pirates
• Demon Extermination: Safe bet as Demons are more hated, and it would counteract Demon-related slander about the Tower.
• Enlightenment: With sufficient resources, Sir Grand plans to implement this Project to share knowledge with the world, and boost the Tower's image.
• Elvish Crimes: If these can be proven, Tower can be seen as heroes.

Response from Madeline Olritz (Clockwork Cult): Culling Warlocks is more likely to give the Tower a negative reputation.

Spoiler: Proposal by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That the Tower Defence be funded as a Tower Project to ensure the safety of the Tower

Show

Aye: -
Nay: -

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Proposals Effected

Sir Rupert Grand (Society of WG): Stormwatcher Report

• Actions Taken: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday has provided the Stormwatcher Records, with sensitive information redacted and restricted to Executive Council.

Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): Peace Directive (1 Turn)

Aye: Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Weymond (Initiation), Turen (History), Passturm (Fringe), Olritz (Magitech), Grand (World Affairs), Fortescue (Power), Buras (Warmagic)
Nay: -
Abstain: Mask (Shadow)

• Actions Taken: Peace Directive is Passed with immediate effect.

Dr Passtrum (Hospitium), Ruby Marshall(Energy Technicians): Task Forces

Aye: Passtrum (Fringe), Marshall (Tower Affairs), Summerscent (Ritual Magic), Olritz (Magitech), Turen (History), Grand (World Affairs), Mask (Shadow), Fortescue (Power)
Nay: -

• Actions Taken: Task Forces is Passed, and will be formed with contributions from all Departments

Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): Resolution of Failure to Communicate I

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Comment by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That Tower Affairs is concentrating on Energy Efficiency, and as such is not able to contribute.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

Illarius Weymond (Sigma): Resolution of Tower Security and Interdepartmental Issues

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Query by Ruby Marshall (Energy Technicians): That the issues of formation of security force, expected level of contributions from each Department, and Project Leader needs to be determined.

• Addendum by Shadow Mask (Shadow): That the present safety mechanism is post-factum verification by the Tower, that individual Departments work with different interpretations of Tower Law, and that jurisdiction of inter-Department issues has yet to be resolved.

Suggestion by Madeline Olritz (Clockwork): That Department of Warmagic should bear most of the responsibility for staffing and leading the force.

• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): Concurrence with Olritz's statement, and that this should be kept in mind when allocating resources.
• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent seconds Olritz's statement.

Concern raised by Barus Turen (Lorekeepers): That it may not be prudent to focus on internal security, when external threats to the Tower are extant.

• Comment by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): That Summerscent disagrees with Turen's statement.
• Comment by Caldwin Buras (IntSec): That Buras disagrees with Turen's statement.

• Actions Taken: Passed over in favor of Task Forces

Shadow Mask: Funding either Shadow Agents or Shadow Whispers as a Tower Project.

Spoiler: Minutes

Show

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That as Invisible Staff Rickton is not an Executive Council member, his proposal be confirmed and seconded.

• Confirmed by Grand (World Affairs).
• Seconded by Turen (History).

Response by "Shadow Mask" (Shadow): That the Tower Council be queried about possibility of additional funding for executing aforementioned Projects, without infringing on prerogatives of Department Head (Shadow).

• Query by Solaris Summerscent (Atelier): How would Project Leaders be selected for such Council-sponsored Projects?
• Response by Bursar Laurie: One of either Project may be funded, on condition that Supreme Chancellor selects Project Leader.
• Response by Shadow Mask (Shadow): Rejection of funding under this condition.

• Actions Taken: Proposal rejected.

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Spoiler: Internal Security (Attn: Thel)

Show

(OOC: Hipchat discussion, agreement of 3 POL to IntSec in exchange for Aye vote for Subtle Weapons)

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Spoiler: Exchange

Show

Project Referendum

"Oh, before I forget. Dagger Brotherhood and Grand Astrologist, could you give me a plan of action for how you intend to administer to Subtle Weapons and Astrological Charts respectively? As much information as you think you need to make your case, but no obligation to include anything you wouldn't share with anyone else. And if you can provide any records of how those Projects benefited the Seat or the Tower in the past, all the better.

Great Tower Library Expedition

"True. I propose that we push it back for the time being, then."

Task Forces

"Just to let you all know, I've changed my mind a tad. I'll be contributing 3 MAN instead."

Trading Floor

"Alright! If you have any items you wish to sell, deals to make, or services to offer to each other, now's the time!"

Spoiler: Merchants, Lightbringers, Reclaimers

Show

Lightbringers: "Please do that, then. It may be unlikely, but it's worth a shot."

To all: "We may need to come up with a Plan B, just in case. Would you all be interested in a mutual funding of Tower Markets, should it not be designated a Tower Project?"

Spoiler: Purifiers

Show

I will confer with mister Buras. However, I don't think there will be an issue, for there are other things on his plate after all.

Spoiler: Vault Guard

Show

Agreed. I guess I'll have to be the one to deliver the news to the Supreme Chancellor. Hopefully he isn't the type to kill the messenger.

Spoiler: Supreme Chancellor Lihoday (10)

Show

So, I've conferred with my fellow Ritualists, and they aren't keen on the conditions. So unfortunately, I believe this whole thing is now kind of moot.

Spoiler: Eldritch Collections Team

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Hey, so. Since you're busy, and so is my Department, maybe it'll be better if we postpone this for a month or so?

[Murska]

Taskforces

I would note that we appear to be spending much effort, specifically on the STF. If we go with Cross's plan, we need to know what sort of resources we have to send to assist, in the form of battlemages and Binders.

There seems to be much Des already appointed, so we will instead contribute only 6 Des but 4 Man.

[Thelonius]

Executive Council

Tower Defence

Brusar Laurie: “It would be possible for Tower Council to fund this project.”

Ruby Marshall: “The Department of Warmagic should be able to support Tower Defence, without need for Executive Council to fund it.”

Anise Fortescue: “Offense is the best Defence… I’m willing to vote Aye, but I advise against caution in favor of strength.”

Sir Rupert Grand: “Well, the Department could handle Demonic Extermination, while Tower Council funds Tower Defence.”

Shadow Mask: “I’m ambivalent on the matter.”

Tower Security

Ruby Marshall: “With STF receiving sufficient resources, the research clearly should focus on CTF.”

Subtle Weapons

Bursar Laurie: “Mage Buras has his opinions. They do not change my.”

Sir Rupert Grand: “Well, murdering the man, would only make his book more popular. I’m against Subtle Weapons.”

Astrological Charts

Shadow Mask: “What she does is smoke and mirrors. There is no insight in studying them.”

Tower Markets

Ruby Marshall: “I find it distasteful to blame our predecessors, whose sacrifice has given us a chance at saving Tower and magic. They had tough choices to make, that we do not face today, because of their act. And why not then fund Blood Drives? That is essentially purchasing Mana for the Tower and it would be more efficient, than less specialized and more complicated Advanced Tower Markets. I would not oppose it.”

Shadow Mask: “Well, agreed to disagree then.”

Sir Rupert Grand: “I am neither blind nor impartial to the concerns you’ve listed. There are measures and plots to address all of them. What we lack is a sufficient plan to deal with Elreath. I vote Nay on the Tower Markets.”

Internal Security

Supreme Chancellor Lihoday [PM]

Spoiler

Show

“One way to interpret your actions. Another one would be to consider, that crisis that removed Lawspeaker from power was caused by events in your Department and populist rhetoric in support of the so-called Department Rights. Which you proceeded to violate by interfering with operations of Department of Rituals to assist your political ally, who helped you gain Seat of Warmagic. Your actions certainly helped expose the incompetence of the old Chancellors - but I personally do not believe, that two wrongs make one right.”

“So, Am I dealing with a dedicated peacekeeper, stepping up in time of uncertainty and chaos or a dangerous opportunist, willing to sacrifice security of the Tower for personal power? Traitors working to bring us down from within are here and I need dedicated loyalists to root out the rot. But I must trust them.”

“Can I ask you two questions? First, you call Orsini a criminal. What evidence convinced you of his guilt?

“Second, your Department is now immune to any scrutiny. The Warmages wouldn’t allow investigation or prosecution of any of their own. I do not like this state of affairs, but I would also not wish to initiate a conflict of such scale. However, are you certain, that all of the Factions in the Warmagic Department are what they seem to be?”

Atelier Solaris

Exchanges [3]

Spoiler

Show

Dagger Brotherhood: “We would rather not discuss, such sensitive question in semi-public meeting.”
Grand Astrologist: “Ah, but I do not yet know. Of all Ritualist Arts, this is one, that is most like Sources - more of an Art, than Craft.”

Deals

Dagger Brotherhood: “We are willing to provide protection in this troubled time.”

Grand Astrologist: “As always, my services in identifying the Favored Rituals this month and any Divinations you may require.”
Merchants of Wonder: “We are willing to offer [Power Artefacts I], [Magitech I] or [Mana].”

Merchants, Lightbringers, Reclaimers [3]

Spoiler

Show

Merchants: “This month it’s unlikely anybody can commit to funding such project. But if the Project doesn’t pass, perhaps we could manage it next one.”

Purifiers [3]

Spoiler

Show

“I will wait for his reply then.”

Supreme Chancellor Lihoday [10]

Spoiler

Show

“So you have things, you would rather not have me know. Understandable. If they are of interest to the Tower, I will learn of them eventually, you can be certain of that.”

Lorekeepers

Society of WG [PM]

Spoiler

Show

“Consider it done then. Well, as long as you support my measures about Elreath, I will support your bid for the Lawspeaker.”

Shadow Teatime [PM]

Spoiler

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Isa: “Well, she will pick the place of arrival then, so we’d need to be cautious and ready to bolt quickly, if things go bad. Our Mages will handle the travel and negotiations with Shylla..”

Supreme Chancellor Lihoday [PM]

Spoiler

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“That would work better. So you pledge a vote of confidence, if Executive Council elects your Mage to the position.”

Elfbane [PM]

Spoiler

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[You do not need to pay PM for it.]