Miras Valanth

Miras Valanth (-882 to -868), the second Protector, ascended to power following Ataukan Khyle's eight-year reign. Renowned for his diplomatic acumen, Miras Valanth's primary focus was to strengthen Arc's relationships with neighboring states and promote trade. His reign marked a period of prosperity and growth for Arc, as the city's economy flourished and its influence across the region expanded.   Continuing the themes established during Ataukan Khyle's rule, Miras Valanth sought to build upon the diplomatic groundwork laid by his predecessor. He engaged in numerous negotiations and treaties with neighboring states, including Arc's traditional enemies, Dran and Del'Marah. These diplomatic efforts further solidified the relationships with these nations and ensured a lasting peace.   Under Miras Valanth's leadership, the emphasis on trade and commerce became a driving force for Arc's economic success. With the Levat firmly established as a stable currency, the Protectorate's financial system continued to thrive. Miras Valanth championed policies that encouraged trade, supporting the growth of merchant guilds and investing in infrastructure to improve transportation and trade routes. As a result, Arc became a hub of commerce, attracting merchants and traders from across Aestis.   During his reign, Miras Valanth also continued the tradition of focusing on Arc's security and stability, ensuring that the city remained well-defended against potential threats. He maintained a strong military presence and continued the construction and expansion of the debtors' fortress, the Oboline, as a symbol of Arc's economic might and the strength of the Levat.   Miras Valanth's 14-year reign was characterized by diplomatic and economic achievements, which significantly bolstered Arc's power and influence in the region. By fostering strong relationships with neighboring states and promoting trade, he successfully continued the legacy of Ataukan Khyle and ensured that Arc's growth and prosperity would continue for generations to come.   The completion of the Oboline in Arc had far-reaching consequences for its citizens, as it became a symbol of both the power of citizenship and the consequences of failing to meet the obligations that come with it. Arcite citizenship held significant value, as it afforded its citizens various rights, such as private property ownership, protection from enslavement, and the right to marry. However, the state of Arc also used citizenship as a means of control and leverage, with citizens becoming indebted to the state by default. As Arc's power declined and its economy shifted to focus on debt, the Oboline became a crucial tool to maintain Arc's influence and deter potential threats from rivals like Dran and Taeor. The introduction of the Arcish levat, a fiat currency backed by Arcite citizenship, further tied the city's financial system to the value of its citizenship.   The Houses of Coin capitalized on this situation by requiring even the smallest loans to be guaranteed by the borrower's citizenship. The threat of losing their citizenship and becoming a 'Ward of the City' pushed debtors to settle their debts at any cost. This system granted the Houses of Coin immense power over the citizens of Arc and allowed them to manipulate the populace through fear of the Oboline.   The Oboline also played a role in the rituals of citizenship. Prospective citizens underwent a series of trials and were required to place a brooch within the wall surrounding the Temple of the Eyeless, known as the Apertures of the Faceless. This brooch represented their commitment to upholding the responsibilities of citizenship. Failure to meet the terms of a contract or loan led to the retrieval of the brooch and a lifetime of servitude in the Oboline.   The Oboline served not only as a means of control over Arc's citizens but also as a constant reminder of the potential consequences of failing to fulfill the duties and responsibilities associated with Arcite citizenship. By intertwining the Oboline with Arc's financial system, the state ensured that its citizens would remain indebted and subservient to its interests.