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CONCORD OF THE COOL COMPANIONS Issued at Year 133 of the Second Age Renewed at the Year 165 of the Second Age As some of the smaller coastal settlements of the east, it has been found beneficial to support each other in every way which we can as possible both economically and militarily in case a threat in the east rises. May this pact give the east security and prosperity for our realms in our home continent of Aevos. ARTICLE I: SOVEREIGNTY I. The Most Serene State of Lurin recognizes The Shiredom of Dúnwen and The Unified Domain of Vortice their sovereignty and autonomy. II. The Unified Domain of Vortice recognizes The Most Serene State of Lurin and The Shiredom of Dúnwen their sovereignty and autonomy. III. The Shiredom of Dúnwen recognizes The Unified Doman of Vortice and The Most Serene State of Lurin their sovereignty and autonomy. ARTICLE II: TRADE I. All signatories dedicate to each other an available tax-free shop or stall within their capital region for the duration of the pact. II. All signatories agree to grant other signatories access to their mines if they are closed. III. All signatories agree to provide each other the best deal possible when trading in bulk goods between each other. IV. Minas are not necessary to trade. ARTICLE III: NON-AGGRESSION I. No signatory shall be intentionally harmed by another including their citizens. II. If a breach has been found, this shall be resolved diplomatically. ARTICLE IV: TERRITORIAL CLAIMS I. No signatory shall lay claim on territories another signatory has laid claim upon. II. Signatories may agree to give up a territorial claim in favor of another member having it. ARTICLE V: INFRASTRUCTURE I. All signatories agree to improve infrastructure between each realm II. This may be done in the form of establishing new roads, bridges and providing easier modes of transport between each other’s realms. III. Every infrastructure project will be discussed between signatories before execution. IV. All signatories agree to repair the alternative, ruined road through Dúnwen as well as build new bridges to connect Lurin and Vortice. ARTICLE VI: DEFENSE I. All signatories will aid each other when declared war upon. II. All signatories will aid each other when their sovereignty is at risk. III. All signatories will provide such aid through soldiers, wealth, industry, and resources. ARTICLE VII: CULTURAL EXCHANGE I. All signatories agree to improve the relationships between the nations by holding cultural events. II. These events will be held every two elven weeks. III. Each of the signatories will have the chance to choose what their event is so long as it’s representative of their culture. IV. These events will be held in a rotatory system, starting with the Most Serene State of Lurin, then the Unified Domain of Vortice, and finally the Shiredom of Dúnwen. ARTICLE VIII: DURATION I. All signatories agree to uphold this pact till all find it necessary to part ways. II. This pact may only be dissolved if all signatories agree. III. If any articles are deemed broken and all diplomatic reasons to maintain the pact are abandoned, the pact will be invalidated. signed, The Silver Lubba, Lumia Anarion The Hand of the Lubba and Prime Minister, Edvard Kervallen Mimosa Applefoot, Thain of Dúnfarthing His Majesty King Cyris Collingwood the First, the Second Former Thain of Dúnfarthing and her vassals, Prince in-Law of the Petra, Protector of the Wee, Lord of Greater Bramblebury, Bywater, Barnsley, Honeyhill and the Hillmen. Father of Foxes, Liberator of Frogtopia, Leader of the Merrymen, Slayer of Gods, The Oathbreaker, Grand Wizard of Bogwartz: School of Shamanism and Housemagery, Tamer of the Forest, Chairman of the League Of Super Best Friends, Wielder of most holy Knoxscalibur, Emperor of the Former Holy Orenian Empire of Bywater, Shogging Champion, Price Gouger, Guild Mason, Market Manipulator, Attorney at law. Her Highness, The 10th Sovereign of the Depths, Monarch of the Unified Domain of Vortice His Highness, Department Head of Foreign Affairs to the Unified Domain of Vortice, Monarch Consort

CONCORD OF THE COASTAL COMPANIONS Issued at Year 133 of the Second Age As some of the smaller coastal settlements of the east, it has been found beneficial to support each other in every way which we can as possible both economically and militarily in case a threat in the east rises. May this pact give the east security and prosperity for our realms on this newly found continent of Aevos. ARTICLE I: SOVEREIGNTY I. The Most Serene State of Lurin recognizes The Shiredom of Dúnwen and The Unified Domain of Vortice their sovereignty and autonomy. II. The Unified Domain of Vortice recognizes The Most Serene State of Lurin and The Shiredom of Dúnwen their sovereignty and autonomy. III. The Shiredom of Dúnwen recognizes The Unified Doman of Vortice and The Most Serene State of Lurin their sovereignty and autonomy. ARTICLE II: TRADE I. All signatories dedicate to each other an available tax-free shop or stall within their capital region for the duration of the pact. II. All signatories agree to grant other signatories access to their mines if they are closed. III. All signatories agree to provide each other the best deal possible when trading in bulk goods between each other. IV. Minas are not necessary to trade. ARTICLE III: NON-AGGRESSION I. No signatory shall be intentionally harmed by another. II. If a breach has been found, this shall be resolved diplomatically. ARTICLE IV: TERRITORIAL CLAIMS I. No signatory shall lay claim on territories another signatory has laid claim upon. II. Signatories may agree to give up a territorial claim in favor of another member having it. ARTICLE V: INFRASTRUCTURE I. All signatories agree to improve infrastructure between each realm II. This may be done in the form of establishing new roads, bridges and providing easier modes of transport between each other’s realms. III. Every infrastructure project will be discussed between signatories before execution. ARTICLE VI: DEFENSE I. All signatories will aid each other when declared war upon. II. All signatories will aid each other when their sovereignty is at risk. III. All signatories will provide such aid through soldiers, wealth, industry and resources. IIIb. The Shiredom of Dúnwen is exempt from this obligation ARTICLE VII: DURATION I. All signatories agree to uphold this pact till all find it necessary to part ways. II. This pact may only be dissolved if all signatories agree. III. If any articles are deemed broken and all diplomatic reasons to maintain the pact are abandoned, the pact will be invalidated. signed, The Silver Lubba

THE PROCURATOR ACCOUNTS OF BALIAN With the recent opening and closings alike of accounts within that of the Balian treasury, the Procurator has decided to expand upon what may be done with these accounts and just how you can make them. Created as to offer a solution to the taxing of Almaris bankers, an account with the Balianite treasury is entirely non-taxable and able to be created or closed at any time. In order to open an account, a few things must be done first: The gathering of the minimum sum of 100 minas must be had before filling out the form here, approaching or birding the Procurator. The form will include that of your name, what type of account it is, who has access to withdraw or deposit and who inherits in the event of your death. Alongside this, there is a section of options you may say yes or no to, purely for your convenience. Optionable Choices for your Account In the event of failure to pay taxes, do you give the Procurator permission to withdraw the amount so as to keep your property?: [Yes or no, the option may be reversed at any time by contacting the Procurator] In the event of outstanding debts to the crown, do you give the Procurator permission to withdraw the amount so as to pay these debts?: [Yes or no, the option may be reversed at any time by contacting the Procurator] In the event of death with no inheritor, do you give permission for the Procurator to absorb the lumpsum amount into the treasury of Balian?: [Yes or no, the option may be reversed at any time by contacting the Procurator] If this is an investment account, would you like to send a weekly sum into it? If so, how much? [Yes or no, it can be made into weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, if so] If this is an investment account, would you like the individual to have full-access to the minas or be granted access upon a certain age?: [You may also limit how much they may withdraw at a time] [a] One family account may be had per family, to be opened by their Head of Household. [b] Alongside this, one personal account may be opened per person. [c] As per the Addendum to the Land Settlement Act of 25 BA, a temporary account may be opened so as to hold the funds of the fee paid after that of the application process : Link here [d] An investment account may be opened for family members or friends that is granted towards their name. An investment account is one primarily for children of a household, but is not relegated to that demographic. It is one opened primarily for the future of that individual, whether an heir to a household or otherwise. [a] You may limit how much they can withdraw at a time. [b] You can control who has access to both withdraw and deposit until the event that the account is fully handed over to them. [c] You may set stipulations as to how they main gain full access to the account, such as the aging to full adulthood, upon marriage or otherwise. [d] Should the account get to zero [0], it is under the same stipulations as other accounts and will be closed out. In order to withdraw minas from an account, you must have been granted access and should you have that, you are to speak with or bird the Procurator or Amiratus for this venture. [a] You may not withdraw more than that of which is within the account. [b] If the withdrawal amount reaches to that of zero [0], the account will be automatically closed. [c] An account must be created via the form first with the aid of the Procurator before any withdrawals may happen. In order to deposit minas into an account, you must have been granted access and should you have that, you are to speak with or bird the Procurator or Amiratus for this venture. [a] There is no limit as to how much you may deposit. [b] An account must be created via the form first with the aid of the Procurator before any deposits may happen. In order to close your account, you must speak with or bird the Procurator or Amiratus for this venture. [a] Only the owner of the account may close out their account. [b] Noone granted access for deposits or withdrawals that is not the primary owner may close out the account. [c] All funds must be removed or granted elsewhere before the account may be closed. [d] A receipt will be had proving the removal of the funds for future ventures. Signed, Her Excellency, Johanne Alstromeria Vuiller, Lady Procurator of the Kingdom of Balian.

THE MINTING OF BALIANESE FLORINS Florins is the coin those within Atrus use most prominently, as referred to in the ‘Nomenclature in the Language of Balian’ written by Mariano Saturnino Ferraz, albeit briefly, it speaks as to, “How many florins for the woven carpet, Segnor?”, under Formal Forms of Address, section two Segnor and Segnora, example one. This piece is meant to touch further on the Balianese currency and shine a light as to a bit of its history, what their appearance is based on and just what they are made of. A depiction of the Balianese Florins is here for perusal, the backs engraved with the star of St. Lothar. Keeping in mind that of the depiction above, each Florin has a different value and meaning to it alike. The gold Florin is worth 20 minas for the common term used amongst Almaris, though with its value, it too, holds a valuable meaning. As with the tradition made, the golden Florin hosts the face of Balians first Monarch, John I. A depiction of the golden Florins front-face, John I engraved prominently upon it. The golden Florin is reserved respectfully for that of the prior Monarch before that of the current one. In this instance, it is John I, followed by the current Monarch, Alexander I upon the silver Florin. The golden Florin is a majority gold as is the namesake, the exact percentages known only to the Procurators Office who mints the coin, with a percentage of Qalashi steel bringing it all to weigh all of one ounce, and only 1.2 inches in diameter. A depiction of Kadarsi ore before being forged with other elements so as to make Qalashi steel. A depiction of the silver Florins front-face, Alexander I engraved prominently upon it. The silver Florin is reserved respectfully for that of the current Monarch before that of their heir. In this instance, it is Alexander I, followed by his heir, Crown Prince Hadrian upon the copper Florin. The silver Florin is a percentage of silver, Qalashi steel and iron known only to the Procurators Office that mints the coin, bringing it all to weigh all of one ounce, and only 1.2 inches in diameter. A depiction of the copper Florins front-face, Crown Prince Hadrian engraved prominently upon it. The copper Florin is reserved respectfully for that of the heir of the current Monarch. In this instance, it is Crown Prince Hadrian upon the copper Florin. The copper Florin is a percentage of copper, nickel alloy and Qalashi steel known only to the Procurators Office that mints the coin, bringing it all to weigh all of one ounce, and only 1.2 inches in diameter. The last of the three to be had at any given time, it is when the heir to the previous Monarch goes on to be coronated, that an entire new set is minted. In this case, the golden Florin of John I will be retired from use and Alexander I will take up the mantle upon the golden Florin, with the now Hadrian I upon the silver and his newly name heir upon the copper Florin. And so it will continue in perpetuity. Signed, Her Excellency, Johanne Alstromeria Vuiller, Lady Procurator of the Kingdom of Balian.

A Treasury Report Issued by the Procurator of the Grand Duchy of Balian On the 15th day of the Sun’s Smile in the year of our Lord, 17th of B.A. “Economy is ever-fluid and so shall we be.” The Procurator of the Grand Duchy of Balian brings forth this announcement, expanding upon multiple items in their planning phases, alongside what is in effect and what is to come. At the end of this report, a question will be asked so as to ascertain the public's opinion. The Refugee Initiative With refugees recently coming to our borders after varying conflicts, it is known that most have only escaped with but the clothes on their backs. Due to this, the Refugee Initiative is being set into action. What is the Refugee Initiative? Any Refugee may contact and speak with the Procurator upon moving to the Grand Duchy of Balian, upon doing so, they will be provided with parcels of food for each family member, down payment waived on a home and the first Saints week of taxes waived as well, so long as they abide by the laws of the Grand Duchy. The new residents will be aided in finding a job or a position so they might get back on their feet as well. What if they have their own means? Refugees who’ve escaped with a bit more than the clothes on their back may still speak with the Procurator and garner what is offered above, but if they are to offer food or otherwise to those who had escaped with less, a deal can otherwise be negotiated for different terms. You are not a Refugee but wish to help? Should a family already residing within the Grand Duchy of Balian wish to aid a Refugee or Refugee family who’s fled, they may speak with the Procurator to negotiate suitable terms and so matters may be set up. On Property Within Balian Terracing and New Levels A project began with the new head of the Censor Office, Baron Kristofer De Rosius before his untimely passing and continued on through hired workers since. Varying homes that previously went unused, or the public opinion otherwise disapproved of, has been converted using a method called terracing. Redone into multiple levels, this allows our space within the Grand Duchy to be used more efficiently alongside allowing for larger homes for the growing families of Balian. The Implementation of Rooftop Gardens With the mention of terracing, rooftop gardens are in the process of being implemented, with hope that it will aid in crops or otherwise being produced within the city. Anyone may have a rooftop garden, and with this, a new member of the Procurator Staff is working on what is called the Farming Initiative which will be expanded upon at a later date. The Auctioning of Road Names Having been announced at the previous court, with the new homes that have been borne of terracing, an auction is being hosted for those wishing a chance to name these new levels and streets. To put in a bid, simply contact the Procurator. On New Hires The Hiring of the Procurator Staff After the previous Procurator Report, varying people have been hired on to fill the ranks of the Procurators staff. Wards have been set to task, stewards selling homes and otherwise. Nonetheless, some positions have yet to be filled and the Procurator has been keeping an eye out with someone willing to do the work. The Land Surveyor Having been set varying tasks and proving himself after his projects came out a success, Lord Emir of Endor has been promoted to the position of Land Surveyor within the Procurators Office. Ensuring the continued upkeep of property within the Grand Duchy, alongside other responsibilities, we look forward to his continued work and success. A Question on Warm Welcomes It has come to the Procurator's attention that varying roles within the Procurators staff of Balian have made mention of wishing to host welcome parties in new homes: Is this something we wish to see as a Grand Duchy? Do we believe this might see a rise in home sales? Who should provide food and beverages? For those who wish to touch on the subject, they may contact the Procurator should they wish. Signed, The Honourable, Baroness-Consort of Renduzzo, Lady Johanne Alstromeria Vuiller, heiress to the County of Aquilae, Procurator of the Grand Duchy of Balian

A Study on Modern Numismatics: Polarizing Impacts of Domestic Currencies on Markets in Almaris Dr. Elibar’Indor Hilea Doctor of Political Economy Master of Research for the VSSA & Affiliated Research with the NGS Northern Geographic Society Press Published 79 S.E. ABSTRACT Since the arrival of settlers in Almaris, production of the mina has been stagnant. Prior literature suggests that the Cloud Temple monks have decreased mina production, prompting national treasuries to create domestic currencies in their respective nations. However, the creation of domestic currencies have the potential to create a politically polarized climate in their host nations. This article details the history of numismatics in descendant nations, the economic motivations to transition away from the use of commodity currencies, and the alienating effects of domestic currency reliance. Note that this study uses the VSSA citation style. INTRODUCTION For as long as recorded economic literature spans, it is generally implied that the dominant currency has been the mina. The mina has been a convenient form of trade between individuals since its initial production by Cloud Temple monks. Governments, merchants and consumers alike are thought to have favored the mina as a commodity currency, one which is backed by the inherent value of the materials used in production. No matter the economic state of the realm, actors in the economy did not have to worry about the value of the mina in their bank accounts, as its value was backed by inherent worth; the worth of their coin would not fluctuate, even if the real prices of commodities did. These traits defined the mina by three critical properties: universality, accessibility, and abundance. The mina as a commodity currency thus provides denizens with the ability to use the mina as a means of exchange across nations (universality), the acknowledgement of minae at nearly every banking institution (accessibility), and the sheer amount of mina available in the money supply, as it was produced by a central minting authority rather than individual governments (abundance). The abundance of minae is a trait especially enticing the state treasuries as they would not have to invest materials or labor costs into the production of a domestically minted currency. Exceptions to this rule have existed throughout history, such as the series of Halfling societies which instead opted for trade through barter, but the mina remained the dominant currency in nearly all major descendent societies. However, the arrival to Almaris has been accompanied by a decrease in the amount of mina available to the general public. It may very well be that Almaris is a continent lacking and devoid of the necessary natural minerals used in the production of the mina. Although it is unclear what the physical coin is minted from, other industries have experienced stagnation in natural resources. The eastern Almaris economic crash of the 1860’s was credited to the depletion of precious minerals in the Komnenos mines of Oren (Ana, 1865). The production of jewelry and beauty products which made use of these precious resources became challenging, just as we may assume the production of minae did due to a scarcity in the necessary minerals used in production. Without declassification of the mina production process from the monks, it is impossible to make a definitive deduction, though there is obviously a plausible foundation for correlation. However, the rhetoric of state treasuries implies that the reasons for creating domestic currencies is also tied to politics that are distrustful of foreign societies and currencies. Nonetheless, the scarcity in mina did begin to spur a wave of domestic fiat currencies in Almaris to replace the mina. These currencies differ from minae in that they are minted by a particular government, backed by the monetary authority of the issuer rather than the intrinsic value of the materials used in production. From Haelun’or to Haense to Uruguan, nations have begun the production of fiat currencies to replace the mina, assuming agency of their own economies. The success of these domestic currencies continues to be a topic of discussion and warrants further research, though the political effects remain completely unexamined in current academic literature. Rather, this study intends to analyze the political origins and influences of domestic fiat currencies on their consumers. How can domestic currencies alienate nations from international markets? HISTORY OF DOMESTIC CURRENCIES Early exceptions to the rule of minae dominance included predominantly human examples. On Axios, the Margraviate of Ponce began to issue their own domestic currency, the Silver Pound, produced from their nearby silver mines (Falk, 1634). The Silver Pound was a commodity currency backed by the fluctuating prices of silver, but still represents an exception to the dominance of mina in early societies. More recently, the Imperial Mark was the short-lived currency of the Holy Orenian Empire (Penton, 1836). The Imperial Mint was the first to begin the production of paper bank notes to accompany metallic coins of lower denominations. Initially minted in 1836, the new currency superseded any other domestic currencies minted through the prior edicts of 1765. Nonetheless, Oren had begun to dabble in fiat currencies, creating a means of exchange wherein value was entrusted by the issuer. Almarian examples begin with initiatives from Haelun’or, where the Silver State sought to escape the “crumbling economy of Almaris” through the creation of their own national currency, the Ibar’thilln (An’asul, 58SE). While the creation of an Economic Reform Committee also created a series of guilds tied to particular industries, it also maintained that the Ibar was the only acceptable means of exchange within Haelun’or. Rhetoric used by the Okarir indicates that there are political motivations to shift “towards freedom from the festering greed of our enemies. For Mali'thill do not need their fruit, their produce, their coin to survive, for we are more than capable of thriving with no more than the efforts of the purest of elves” (An’asul, 58SE). The Haelunorian example makes heavy usage of alienating rhetoric, implying that the “crumbling” economy of Almaris is directly related to the universality of the mina. Further, the United Provinces of Dùnrath have recently begun minting their own currencies. The Rathonian currency exists in a peculiar space between commodity and fiat currencies, reliant on both the faith of the issuer as well as the fluctuating prices of metal relative to the Almarian mina (Sutharlainn, 73SE). The Monetary Act of Dunrath implies that the mina is an unstable and illegitimate currency, but does not present rhetoric which directly subjugates foreigners or implies that the declining state of the Almarian economy is the fault of non-Rathonians. Recent introductions of new domestic currencies in the Dwarven economy have also been attributed to a declining age of economic expansion. Though the Kingdom of Urguan had previously used a faulty domestic currency – the Karzul – the Grand Bank has recently issued the Minek as a replacement (Goldhand & Grandaxe, 70SE). The Minek is, decidedly, a fiat currency as the conversion from mina is subject to an exchange rate dictated by the Grand Bank. Nonetheless, the Minek is also attributed to a floundering economy of the “Second Age.” Of course, the most prominent and dominant instance of modern domestic fiat currencies rests with the Hanseti Krawn, similarly attributed to fix economic woes, though does not make use of the fiat currency. Introduced in the early 1800’s, the Krawn originally included bronze, silver and gold denominations. Since the Krawn is backed by the value of minerals as an asset, they retain their value as a means to mitigate inflation (Vyronov, 78SE). Economic downturn is also credited as the reason for reliance on domestic currencies, citing the rapid inflation of the price of mina relative to the Krawn, but also the economic ramifications of recent warfare. Perhaps warfare implies increased government spending on expensive military equipment produced by Hansetian industries, increasing the overall demand (and equilibrium prices) of related goods used in military production. The implication is that the inflation caused by militaristic spending would have an expansionary effect on the demand for certain goods, causing an increase in prices. Nonetheless, Hansetians cite the Krawn as a means to prevent creeping inflation and are increasingly proud of their domestic currency. ISOLATION OF DOMESTIC MARKETS The effects of domestic currency reliance, in all cases, can imply the isolation of various markets that is no longer reminiscent of the mina. Recall the attributes which define that of the mina: accessibility, universality, and abundance. Without banking institutions which accept a standard international currency, access to domestic currencies becomes difficult to those conducting international trade. Commerce suffers as a result of foreign consumers being unable to access their own money. While a Hansetian may spend their Krawn domestically, visiting Dunrath becomes an issue, should they wish to purchase goods using their Krawns. Conversion of the Krawn to Agra at Rathonian banking institutions may not even be possible, let alone the conversion of Agra to mina, should the Hansetian possess only the Krawn (Sutharlainn, 73SE). The same is true of a Rathonian in Karosgrad, or a foreign consumer in any market which makes use of domestic currencies. Thus, national treasuries have sacrificed the universality of their currency for a marginal increase in agency of their domestic markets, forgoing accessibility and universality. The abundance of domestic currencies may vary between nations. The result of this alienation is an economy which becomes increasingly reliant on domestic goods rather than international imports. The degree to which domestic currencies may decrease imports is yet to be examined, but conventional wisdom would suggest that the lack of accessibility and universality could create an isolated domestic economy. This is especially true in economies where the domestic currency is considerably weaker with fewer consumers. However, this may be a desirable effect to some nations. For instance, the Ibar is spurred by distrust of foreign banking institutions, accompanied by the desire to create a more intimate domestic labor market (An’asul, 58SE). Perhaps the Ibar creates an incentive to engage in foreign commerce outside of Haelun’or, leaving Haelunorians to their own devices and creating domestic economic activity that is not reliant on exogenous markets. To others with less centralized economic hubs and more rural populations, the decrease in foreign commerce may have an alienating impact on the domestic markets. Without imports, the economies which have a comparative disadvantage in the production of most goods would suffer, unable to capitalize on their abundant resources in exchange for the imports they so direly need. CONCLUSION Although domestic currencies are almost sure to isolate domestic markets from international commerce, the effects may be viewed as desirable to some economies. For those with a reliable domestic labor force, suitable capital to produce the demanded products, and the political will to detach from international reliance on the mina, the isolation of domestic economies can arguably be viewed as a favorable outcome. Economic analysts should be urged to conduct cost-benefit analyses when minting domestic currencies, and further research should explore quantitative impacts of domestic currencies on imported goods. There exists a potential field of research to explore the rise of domestic currencies and the differences between means of exchange. I have opted to coin a term for the study of currencies (pun intended), dubbed “numismatics.” Rooted in the Flexian word for coin, “nomisma,” I find that numismatics can be a useful field of study for macroeconomists across Almaris, further informing national treasuries and mints of potential economic policies. BIBLIOGRAPHY Ana, J. (1865FE) The Beauty Industry Crash of 1865. Red Rose Industry. ((Link)) Falk. (1634FE) The Silver Pound of Ponce. The Ponce Exchange. ((Link)) Goldhand, H.; Grandaxe, D. (70SE) Urguani Economic Reform. The Grand Bank of Urguan. ((Link)) Penton, H. (1836SE) The Imperial Mint. Ministry of the Treasury. ((Link)) Sutharlainn, D. (73SE) The Monetary Act S.A.73. Grand Governor of the United Provinces of Dunrath’s Office. ((Link)) An’asul, U. (58SE) In Regards to the Economic Reformation of Haelun’or. ((Link)) Vyronov, G. (78SE) Krawn Exchange & New Krawns. Golden Crown Bank. ((Link))

ROYAL TREASURY REPORT Issued by the THE ROYAL TREASURER On this 17th day of GRONNA AG DROBA, 417 E.S VA BIRODEO E HERZENAV In order for proper transparency, the Office of the Royal Treasurer does seek to write a missive both to educate those merchants that reside within the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, as well as its peoples in general. The agenda of the Office of the Treasurer is as follows: - A Further Investigation into the Lord Edvard Amador - A Worrisome High Street - Recruiting A Second AUDIT: INVESTIGATION OF EDVARD AMADOR In history now long past during the reign of King Heinrik II, an accusation that can only be chalked up to clerical error was made towards a previous treasurer, Lord Edvard Amador, for possible maleficence during his tenure. This report, whilst not levying the claim directly of possible pilfering from the treasury, did in all but name direct for something askew done at the hands of Lord Edvard Amador. Let the record now be set straight. Lord Edvard Amador did leave a heavy amount of coin within his keep, as other treasurers had and have done during their tenures for ease of organizing such an extensive treasury. These Krawns were, upon their discovery by the Lord Amador, returned to the kingdom immediately. No mention of such came from this report, and no vindication was ever offered. The Amador Lord maintained his innocence until his passing - having died a man in exile for the rumor that was spread. Let his family offer a prayer for the man who, whilst not saved in life, may be saved his reputation in death. A WORRISOME HIGH STREET A horrible plague has laid waste to our high street in the city of Karosgrad, and that plague is complacency. Numerous shops have continued to pay their taxes but have no new stock added to their shops, or simply leave empty shelves altogether. This is a city of commerce, not layabouts. Whilst we are most glad that many are able to pay their taxes with ease, our merchants must provide adequate service in our fair city. It is time to reveal ingenuity as shopkeepers, and return to your workshops. Those who fail to improve after an inspection shall be fined. RECRUITING A SECOND Her Highness, Princess Anastasya, has been sufficiently able to maintain the office of the Treasurer for a number of years alone, yet now is in search of a second to join her. Applicants would aim to oversee inspections of the market and Karosgrad shops to ensure they are maintaining a sufficient standard of product, as well as seeing to the stock of Haeseni shops and stalls abroad. The ideal candidate does not necessarily need to have an interest in economics, though shall possess a desire to learn. SIGNED Her Royal Highness, Princess Anastasya Isabel Baruch, Lady Treasurer of Hanseti-Ruska, Duchess-Consort of Valwyck, Duchess of Karlsburg, and Baroness of Antioch

OFFICE OF THE ROYAL TREASURY 11th of Vzmey & Hyff, 360 E.S. ________________________________________________________________ TREASURER’S LETTER Honourable Residents of Hanseti-Ruska, With the recent retirement of the Honourable Sir Edvard Amador, the former and 2nd Royal Treasurer, the Office of the Royal Treasury and I now wish him a blessed, deserved retirement after his many decades of hard work for our Kingdom! As such, with my promotion to Royal Treasurer from former Kastellan of Resources, I am both joyed and prepared to continue the work set down by my predecessors to further maintain, refine, and expand the Office of the Royal Treasury. Doing so with hope and prayer that GOD offers us all diligence and clarity in our hearts and minds. The document following below will outline and clarify the structure, positions, and and work that the Treasury shall now follow, based on both works put in place by the former Royal Treasurers, and what changes are believed to be required in order to enhance the performance of the Office. The Treasury shall be open to assist and help all those who are willing to reach out, and its Treasurer available to the best of his ability. Your humble servant, - Brandt Barclay ________________________________________________________________ PREFACE The Office of the Treasurer (Naumariav: Ve Offiez i ve Aranyiaz) is the fiscal branch of His Majesty’s Aulic Council. Among other tasks, its main duties are to oversee the Kingdom’s financial affairs, generate revenue and supervise expenditures, sustain the Royal Coffers, manage the governmental stores throughout the continent, promote and advertise employment and businesses within the Kingdom, et cetera. ________________________________________________________________ OFFICE HIERARCHY The Royal Treasurer Ser Brandt Barclay, the 3rd Royal Treasurer of Haenseti-Ruska As the uppermost authority of the Treasury - aside from the Lord Palatine and His Majesty - the Royal Treasurer is to administrate all of the Office’s affairs, including but not limited to, the management of ledgers, finances, employment, Krawns and the Golden Crow Bank; distribution of both currency and coffers through other branches and institutions of the Government, work hand-to-hand with the High Seneschal to oversee the taxation of the Haeseni Properties, et cetera. The Royal Treasurer is to be the main overseer of the activity and work done within the Royal Treasury, and shall be the primary advisor of His Majesty concerning financial affairs. ________________________________________________________________ Kastellans Whilst the Royal Treasurer is to oversee the work done throughout the Office, other branches of the Treasury are to also be occupied and operated - provided that enough trusted personnel is available. These different sub-branches each shall have their own function and work. Through each branch, a Kastellan shall be occupying an office position to operate under their respective fields. The Kastellans shall be overseers of their branches, and as such are to work closely with the Royal Treasurer in order assist the unproblematic operation of the Office. In lack of trusted and/or capable personnel to occupy the positions of Kastellans, the Royal Treasurer is to operate the branches directly. Furthermore, one individual may occupy more than one Kastellan position if the Treasurer deems them fit and capable. ________________________________________________________________ Kastellan of Resources The Kastellan of Resources shall be the right hand hand of the Royal Treasurer, and their work shall be to assist in the keeping of ledgers and, together with the Treasurer, oversee the inventory of physical materials and products within the Royal Coffers. The Kastellan of Resources reports directly to the Treasurer, and is to do so frequently. Henceforth, among other things, their duties include: To assist the upkeep, rework and enhancement the relevant documents of the Treasury. To check on and maintain the physical products of the Royal Coffers. To frequently communicate with the Royal Treasurer in order to come up with ways to improve the efficiency and work of the Office; making sure that an acceptable work ethic is maintained throughout the office. To ensure the smooth distribution of resources for Crown projects. To assist the Treasurer in the management of the Golden Crow Bank. ________________________________________________________________ Kastellan of Trade Whilst the Kastellan of Resources shall both be the second hand of the Treasurer and oversee the matter of physical resources, the Kastellan of Trade’s aim shall be in expanding and operating the scope of the Treasury’s business and trade matters. They are to assist the Treasurer in overlooking both the national and international trades and shops, as such assisting the maximization of income. Furthermore, the Kastellan of Trade is also to look over the Treasury Traders, making sure that they are supplied in their stock and revenue through trade is flowing in. Henceforth, among other things, their duties include: To assist with the upkeep of both international and national management and trade within the Black Crow Company To oversee and manage the supplies and the money received from Treasury Traders. To increase revenue through trading of materials from the Treasury. To seek out and assist the forging of financial and economical deals either within or outside of the Kingdom. To assist the promotion and advertisement of Haeseni business so that it may thrive. To communicate with the Treasurer to offer insight on economical situations, plans and ideas. To operate, utilize and upkeep the Resource Trading Board To assist the Treasurer in deciding trading prices of Treasury products. Treasury Traders Operating under the supervision of both the Kastellan of Trade and the Royal Treasurer, Treasury Traders are to be individuals who are willing to both make themselves revenue whilst also assisting the Royal Treasury to make its own. These traders can take various tasks given by either the Treasurer or the Kastellan of Trade. These will often include the receiving of resources from the Royal Coffers for a reduced price, so they may then resell the given product for their own gain and profit, based on their own expertise at bargaining. Other times, a Treasury trader may be given the work of managing a shop of Black Crow Company outside of Haense. The job itself does not require as much effort or commitment as that of a Kastellan, and as such is a more accessible one. ________________________________________________________________ Kastellan of Labour The job of the Kastellan of Labour is to assist both the Treasurer and Kastellan of Resources in order to both promote employment of Treasury Suppliers, and the management of these workers. The Kastellan of Labour is to assist the managing of the Resource Trading Board, and as such assist the Kastellan of Resources when supplying the Royal Coffers. Henceforth, among other things, their duties include: To employ and manage the Treasury Suppliers, offer them commissions, et cetera. To work hand-to-hand with the Kastellan of Resources in order to get resources for the Royal Coffer. To manage the Resource Trading Board in case Treasury Suppliers are not currently available to fill up commissions. Treasury Supplier Operating under the supervision of the Kastellan of Labour and the Royal Treasurer, the Suppliers are to be dedicated gatherers of resources. The goods that they supply to the treasury shall be paid for by the Treasurer directly or the Kastellan of Resources in his stead, whilst the commissions they shall receive from the Kastellan of Labours. When Treasury Suppliers take up commissions from the Resource Trading Board, they get a small percentage of increase in the money they are paid, as opposed to a normal resident or commissioner receiving such. Much like the Treasury Traders, this position does not require as much work and commitment as that of a Kastellan, so the employment process shall be easier, and the job can work as a quick way for the average resident to make money whilst helping the treasury. ________________________________________________________________ WORK ETHICS OF THE ROYAL TREASURY The Office of the Royal Treasury counting currency. Aside from following the laws set by Haurul Caezk to the point, the standards of work that are to be kept in the Royal Treasury shall extend in order to further promote a consistent work ethic within the Office’s affairs. These codes and guidelines, thus far, continue as follows: On the Ownership of the Money: All money circulating around the Treasury belongs to none other but the Koeng and the Royal Crown, unless wages and payment are given and recorded. As such, everything that goes in and -especially- out of the Royal Treasury, shall first go through the Royal Treasurer, the Koeng’s trustee and advisor in the fiscal matters. This means that no cuts shall be taken directly from the workers, and all profits shall first go to the Treasurer before being distributed back, so to assure clear recording. On Recording and Accuracy: Recording is everything. The worker of the Treasury, starting from the Royal Treasurer, shall always keep in mind to accurately and frequently update ledgers and write reports so that no money or supply gets lost. If there is ever to be an incident where currency or supply goes missing, tracking back will be done, and if so it happens that it was because of inaccurate book-keeping or lack of it altogether, the person whose job it was shall take responsibility. On Honour and Honesty: Money is as dangerous as it is useful. It is dangerous to the consciousness and sanctity of the soul and mind of a person, especially when dealing with large amounts. As such, whenever deals or business-related affairs are made, the Treasury worker shall always be as honest and honourable in their trade and work as they can, be it with someone else within the institution, or a merchant. No scams or dishonourable tricks are to take place when representing the Royal Treasury. ________________________________________________________________ RESOURCE TRADING BOARD Depiction of Lord Treasurer setting up a Resource Trading Board notice Acting as the most accessible and direct way for the common Haesen citizen to both help the Kingdom and find quick work, the Resource Trading Board shall now be established and operated by the Lord Treasurer and Kastellan of Labour. It shall be a way for the Treasury to put out commissions in the form of bids for all to see, and, starting with an initial price for the materials requested, bidding will start, and either the Treasurer or the KoL will pick one of the deals offered, and then continue with the transaction. Whilst everyone may freely participate in any commissions, if a Treasury Supplier gets the lowest bid, they shall receive an increase on the final percentage of the deal, as long as they’ve shown to be a competent and active supplier. ________________________________________________________________ BLACK CROW COMPANY™ The badge of the Black Crow Company™ As of today, in the 11th of Vzmey & Hyff, 360 E.S, the Black Crow Company™ shall be founded by Lord Treasurer Brandt Barclay as the Treasury’s and the Crown’s official trading company. Acting as a successor of the previous Haense Fur Trading Co., it shall take its place, and now start as new and actively operating. Naturally, the company will operate under the supervision of the Lord Treasurer, and it is this same company that the Kastellan of Trade will operate and conduct deals under. The Black Crow Company™ will operate as a general goods store, selling both raw materials and processed products, depending on what the Treasury is able to get its hands on. However, within Haeseni land it will refrain from selling goods that put it in a trading competition with other Haeseni companies, so to encourage younger businesses to open, while not meddling with the free market. ________________________________________________________________ [Work in Progress] HAESENI MARKET FAIR Depiction of what the Haeseni Market fair would look like. Another project that to be considered and worked on in the future of the Treasury shall be the operation of Haeseni Market Fairs. Though the details are still being worked and refined on, this project is currently being worked by Her Majesty, Isabel of Valwyck and Lord Treasurer, Ser Brandt Barclay. As it stands, the Market Fair is planned to be an event that will be accessible to everyone who wishes to attend, and will act as a way for businessmen and merchants to sell their products, for the merry consumers to spend their money, and for everyone involved to raise their spirits through celebration. More to be announced soon. Signed, His Excellency Ser Brandt Barclay KC, Lord Treasurer of Hanseti-Ruska

8.0 Economy Teaser Hello LotC’ers and welcome to a short teaser of the economy system planned for 8.0 The main part of the economy system is tied to tiles and what I like to call Tile Improvements. What is a Tile Improvement? Think mines, nodes, resources, ability to farm and raise animals. Each tile in the world will be regioned and given a specific primary and possibly secondary type. Primary types include plains, forests, and mountains. Secondary would be desert, underground, and coastal. These are just examples and more will be added as needed. Tile Improvements would be limited to certain types of tiles. You will also be limited to 1 type of each type of Tile Improvement per tile. Example, you cannot have 2 mines on a tile. Tile Improvements will eventually be able to be upgrade, more nodes to harvest etc, however that will be added later in 8.0 Tile Improvements include: Ranches Farms Mines Lumber Camp Clay Quarry Ground Quarry Sand Quarry Terracotta Quarry Prismarine Quarry Nether Quarry ‘More to be added in the future’ At the start of the map the Capital Tiles of all races will have 4 Tile Improvements allowed in their capital tile. This would be ranches, farms, a capital mine, and lumber camp. Capital tiles will be allowed to have up to 5 Tile Improvements. Other tiles will be limited to having 3 improvements. A Tile Improvement will cost a lump sum of mina to create and the World Team will then create their Tile Improvement using Nodes! Yes that's right, nodes are back. Each World Improvement will have a certain number of nodes that will be hand placed in the area selected by the tile owner after being purchased. Nodes will have a PER PLAYER cooldown. This means no more worry about one guy camping all the cooldowns of the nodes. Each player will be able to harvest the nodes. Tile Improvement Info (subject to change) Node Cooldown: 1-2 hour Why so long? The idea is for players to go harvest their resources and make their way back into town to craft and roleplay with those items. We would rather like to see players interacting and roleplaying than sitting in a mineshaft waiting every 10 mins for the iron node to regen. Ranches: improvement limited to plains and forest tiles. Passive mob spawning disabled globally, enabled on tiles with the improvement. Farms: improvement limited to plains tiles. This will be a custom flag with Vortex. You CAN farm anywhere but on a Farm Tile Improvement your crops will grow faster and easier. Lumber Camp: improvement limited to forest and mountain tiles. Lumber nodes will be set up in a tile that has that improvement. 64 wood nodes and 64 leaf nodes per tile. Mine: improvement limited to mountain tiles. Capital Mines 64 – Various Stone 32 - Iron Ore 32 - Coal 16 - Quartz 16 - Redstone 16 - Lapiz 8 - Lead 8 - Gold 8 - Copper 6 - Silver 4 - Emerald 4 - Obsidian 4 - Tin 4 - Nickel Tile Mines 32 – Various Stone 16 - Iron 16 - Coal 8 - Redstone 8 - Lapiz 8 - Quartz 4 - Lead 4 - Gold 4 - Copper 3 - Silver 2 - Emerald 2 - Obsidian 2 - Tin 2 - Nickel Clay Quarry: improvement limited to plains and forest tiles. 32 clay Ground Quarry: improvement limited to plains and mountain tiles. 32 gravel 32 dirt Sand Pit: improvement limited to coastal and desert tiles. 16 sand 16 red sand Prismarine: improvement limited to coastal tiles. 32 Prismarine (will drop shards) Terracotta: limited to desert and mountain tiles. 32 terracotta Nether: limited to underground all tiles 16 netherrack 16 soul sand 16 glowstone Following will be Rare Nodes. Bone, Slime, Snow, Carbarum, Platinum, Phosphorus Mina Mina is a big focus of the economy team and the technical team. We have decided to remove voting to earn mina and move it to a mob drop. You can also gain mina from completing dungeons. Mina through contests and community will still be around although their amounts will be subject to be changed. We are looking into a physical currency system and a way for nations to make their own currencies as well. We have gold sinks and ways to spend your money. These include Tile Improvements, Tile Improvement Upgrades, Settlements, and Nation Expansions. More will be added as the Technical Team creates them. Voting will now give players casket keys which they can then use to trade with the Oddity Trader to open caskets relating to a certain profession. Professions We are working hand in hand with the Technical Team to adjust nodes, mina, and professions to make the economy something to enjoy but not pull your hair out. Professions have a HUGE impact on the economy and we are glad to see it will not be restrictive but will be focused on adding to your ability to harvest and make items better. Everything stated here will be adjusted as needed to fit the professions system and the ability for players to enjoy the economy. Special thanks to Nick, Llir, Grool, Zemos, Edelos, Esterlen, Safety Admin Noobman, Zindran, and Xarkly for their input and assistance.

Part of another Guide I made, which I will not be posting on the forums. Pasted from a google document. I may extend upon this in the future, but this is how LotC's current economy works in general. The Beginning: Understanding LotC’s Economy Basics: Sources of Income At the source of it all, LotC’s economy is driven by trade and skills. There are several sources of income a player can utilize. For the rest of this guide I will be using the standard price of skill tomes, a valued item of 1000 mina generally, as a benchmark to compare values. The ‘Voter’ The first source I will talk over is voting. Currently LotC’s system of voting allows the player to gather small amounts of income over time. This benefits the returning player who plays everyday as they get their chance to gain income over time. This is a very stable, but fluctuating source of income that does not show large amounts of yield to the player. With 14 days of voting, roughly half a month, a player can expect an equivalent of 600-800 mina. This, in comparison to skill tome, is a somewhat large sum of currency, but in comparison to a land charter, it is very minimal. Despite the average voter’s income being minimal, there are a wide range of possibilities they could spend their money on, such as equipment crafted by other skills which are directly in their income range. The ‘Crafter’ The second source of income I will talk about is trading of equipment, gear for PvP and tools. There are several professions that can craft gear for a player. There are 4 standard ones that are used heavily, which are Blacksmith, Enchanter, Woodworker, and Leatherworker. There are other skills which can craft things that can be utilized as equipment or things for PvP, but they are not as important as these few. All of these skills which craft items require a gathering profession to gather them materials for their crafts. This is where a clear pyramid of economy can be seen. The players who are of these crafting professions sell their wares to other players for Medium to Low prices. Ranging from 600 to as little as 20 mina. This is where the ‘voter’ who votes daily directs their flow of income to. These ‘crafters’ then gather their income from both voting and their clients shopping for their wares. Despite a large amount of income, they have to spend their money on others who gather them wares. The ‘crafter’s also can use skill tomes provided by ‘gatherer’s which makes their reliance even stronger. The ‘Gatherer’ The third source of income is the ‘gatherer’ professions. These professions or skills tend to be the very base of the pyramid, structuring the economy as they determine the price and rate of inflation. These gathering profession yield meager amounts of income as they sell large amounts of materials for low prices to the ‘crafters.’ Despite their low prices of which they sell wares, a dedicated crafter can be of the top tier professions as they have little cost compared to income, unlike the ‘crafter’ who has a high cost to income ratio. Along with this, they are always in high demand. The ‘gatherer’ is also a source of skill tomes for the crafting professions. The ‘Tax Collector’ The last source of income is the ‘tax collector.’ This role in the economy does not stem from skills or professions. The ‘tax collector’ is a player who owns land and provides housing for said ‘voters’, ‘crafters’, and ‘gatherers’. This role, if done efficiently is that of the very top of the economy. Even with it’s pros, it has many cons. The Pros of the ‘tax collector’ are that of yielding lots of income at a scaling rate, and having little to no cost besides building involved. The cons are very harsh though as a ‘tax collector’, because their income is directly related to their efficiency and ability to attract residents and have them to pay taxes. This role requires a lot of maintenance in comparison to a profession or the ‘voter’. They must maintain a stable player base that is active, this is a big series of problems for many. Summary of Income In an overview, LotC’s economy can be either very saturated in one portion, or dry in another ranging from player to player. This is due to the fact that those who are committed to their role and capitalize on the market fair much better than others. The driving factor of inflation, the dread of all economies, stems from the gathering professions and the amount of currency in ratio to goods produced. Hierarchical Analysis This hierarchy is determined by maximum efficiency and flow of income, if everything is working according to the best that it can. Top Tier : ‘Tax collector’ Top-Middle Tier : ‘Gatherer’ Middle Tier : ‘Crafter’ Bottom Tier : ‘Voter’ The ‘Tax collector’ is at the top, because of the low cost and high yield of income if efficient. It is very profitable in the middle and later stages of the economy. The ‘Gatherer’ is just below the top, because of the constant high demand, volatile market a ‘gatherer’ works in with low cost and medium yield of income if efficient. It is susceptible to terrible inflation compared to work in the later stages of the economy, but profitable in the early stages. The ‘Crafter’ is middle tier, because of the equal cost and yield of the profession. It has much potential in the middle stage of the economy, proving to be very important throughout the economy’s life. The ‘Voter’ is at the bottom, because of the fact of the lack of promise in the increase of the stable yield of currency over a set time period. It is better paired with all of the other roles as to give a bonus. Despite it’s lack of potential, it drives the amount of currency in the economy, rivalling the amount of materials in the market. Ratio Analysis There are several distinct ratios that can be seen in the market and economy. I will be presenting these ratios as that of a mathematical equation, just like a normal ratio in mathematics, followed by a short explanation. Formated as so: A / B = C ------ Currency in the market/Materials in the market = Inflation or value of currency This is the ratio of the value of currency. It is directly determined by the amount of currency in the market and the amount of materials in the market. This can easily be seen over the lifetime of a market or economy as a map changes on LotC. This is, because the markets are entirely wiped of currency and produce. At the start of a market, there is little currency in comparison to raw materials produced by ‘gatherer’s as they attempt to do what they do, and earn money, capitalizing on the new frontier that is the fresh, clean market. Toward the end of a market’s lifetime, the value of currency becomes more valued than raw materials as the market is saturated by more raw materials than currency. This can be explained as a chart Y Axis = Amount of Produce in the Market (Abundance of goods) X Axis = Lifetime of the Market (Time into the map) (Numbers of the chart are just benchmarks, no significant values) ------ Amount of Crafters / Amount of Gatherers = Price Inflation This is the ratio of the value of the prices of crafted items. It is directly determined by the the ratio of crafters to gatherers. This is best for choosing a profession to utilize in order to gain large amounts of income. Timing is key. The Beginning: Lifespan of the Economy Time: Map Resets On LotC, the life of the economy of any given map is marked by resets and new maps. Currently skills are said to be reset at the change of a map. Currency is always wiped also. This creates a fresh start for all at the beginning of a map and new markets dawn the horizon with a brand new, blank slate of an economy. This is the best time of any to capitalize on the market with an equal opportunity at wealth. Map resets are for the most part good. This is, because of the fact that when a map run’s its lifespan, it is too saturated with inflation that professions do not benefit for the amount of work put in place. Players are then deterred from leveling their skills as there are already people at the top dominating the market. A new map means new opportunity for those left at the bottom. An unsaturated market with high values for materials. This is the best time for a player to take on a gathering profession or start crafting to get a head start on the profession leader-board. Although, during certain periods of the map's lifespan different roles become more profitable. The Beginning: Utilizing LotC’s Economy Structure: Markets At the heart of LotC’s economy, there are the different markets of buying and selling the various goods which allows the flow of wealth to the different roles and the players of these roles more importantly. Storefronts For the longest time, LotC has boasted a shopping plugin which donors can utilize. This plugin is a market in its own for players. It allows the player to buy and sell without being present! Genious! This is heavily used by both all roles, even the ‘tax collector’ who sets up a storefront and a drop off location for tax collection. Store fronts are also the determining factor of inflation. This is where it occurs, because of the fact that primarily ‘gatherer’s attempt to gain more income by lowering their prices lower than their competitors, thus ‘crafter’s will shop at their store as it has a much lower price than that of someone else's. This trend sets the tone for the economy as the raw materials being sold at a store front are the standard price of the time, influencing the value of every other material and produce. Clients Another market, mostly used by ‘gatherer’s are clients. Clients are individual people who request a certain material on a daily in order to fund their trade. This tends to be the relationship between ‘crafter’ and ‘gatherer’ and the ‘crafter’ is dependent on the ‘gatherer’ to give them materials for crafting. The relationship is not always mutual. This kind of market is usually that which fares the best, as there will be a longer life span between a provider and a client than that of a volatile storefront. The Auction House A very important market in the economy of LotC is the auction house. The auction house lets anyone sell their wares at any given time without them being present, but presents wares in a very competitive market. Prices of items can easily be undermined by others. Despite these defects, the auction house is where the more valued items of LotC’s economy can be found, such as caskets, skill tomes, powerful gear, and the likes.