Guild of Prosperous Traders

The Guild of Prosperous Traders is a powerful and influential faction in the Bridge Cities of Imboron. Comprising wealthy merchants and traders, it holds a dominant position in the city's economic and political affairs. The guild's origins can be traced back to the aftermath of the Celestial Comet, when ambitious traders capitalized on the receding sea to establish new trade routes.

Structure

Oligarchs: The Oligarchs, comprising esteemed members of the Guild of Prosperous Traders, are the ruling elite of the Bridge Cities. They are the wealthiest and most influential individuals, holding sway over trade, commerce, and various sectors of the city's economy. 
Council of Oligarchs: The council serves as the primary decision-making body within the guild. The Oligarchs convene to discuss and determine matters of governance, legislation, trade policies, and other significant aspects of city affairs.
Guild Hierarchy: The Guild of Prosperous Traders is structured with a hierarchy, where members rise through the ranks based on their achievements, contributions to the guild's prosperity, and wealth. The higher the rank, the greater the influence and privileges bestowed upon them.

History

The history of the Guild of Prosperous Traders dates back to the aftermath of the Celestial Comet, a cataclysmic event that reshaped the landscape of Imboron. As the sea receded, revealing the land bridge connecting Astoria and Marisville, ambitious traders saw an opportunity to capitalize on the newfound geographical advantage.
These traders, seeking to establish trade routes and foster economic prosperity, formed a loose association that eventually evolved into the Guild of Prosperous Traders. In the early days, the guild was more of a cooperative effort, with merchants pooling resources and sharing knowledge to thrive in the post-comet era.
As trade between the Bridge Cities and neighboring realms flourished, the guild's influence expanded. Its members grew wealthier and more influential, and they began to play an active role in the politics and governance of the cities.
Approximately 500 years ago, the guild's ambition reached a tipping point. Dissatisfaction with the oppressive rule of the ruling kings led the guild to orchestrate an uprising, successfully overthrowing the monarchs and establishing an oligarchic rule. From that point forward, the guild wielded considerable political power, governing trade affairs and shaping the economic landscape of the Bridge Cities.

Military

1. Mercenary Companies: The guild recruits skilled and battle-hardened mercenaries from various realms and backgrounds, forming mercenary companies loyal to their cause. These companies are led by experienced commanders, and their members are well-trained in various forms of combat. 2. Professional Training: The guild spares no expense in providing extensive training to its mercenaries. They are equipped with the finest weaponry and armor, and their combat skills are honed through rigorous drills and exercises. The guild ensures that their mercenaries remain ready and capable to face any threat that may arise.
3. Coastal Defense: The mercenaries play a crucial role in safeguarding the Bridge Cities' coastal defenses. They protect the ports, shipyards, and coastal territories from pirate attacks and external threats, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of maritime commerce.
4. Land Defense: The mercenaries also defend the cities' land borders, manning watchtowers and fortifications to repel any potential invasions. Their presence acts as a deterrent against hostile forces and provides a sense of security to the inhabitants.
5. Elite Units: Within the guild's military, there are elite units known for their exceptional skills and specialization in certain forms of combat. These units are deployed for critical missions and to respond swiftly to any emerging threats.
6. Deployment Flexibility: The guild's mercenaries are versatile and can be rapidly deployed wherever their services are required. They may act as expeditionary forces, sent to quell uprisings or counter threats to the realm, both within the Bridge Cities and in neighboring regions.
7. Securing Trade Routes: The mercenaries also play a vital role in securing trade routes, ensuring the safe passage of caravans and merchant carriages through potentially dangerous territories.
8. Loyalty and Contracts: The mercenaries are bound by strict contractual agreements with the guild. While they are well-paid for their services, their loyalty is primarily tied to the prosperity and protection of the guild's interests.
Though the Guild of Prosperous Traders is renowned for its economic prowess, its military force of well-trained mercenaries is equally formidable. This combination of economic influence and military might solidifies the guild's position as a powerful and influential entity in the realm of Imboron.

Founding Date

1000 BL

Type

Financial, Merchant League

Alternative Names

The guild

Training Level

Semi-professional

Veterancy Level

Trained

Power Structure

Federation

Economic System

Market economy

Location

Bridge Cities