The Silver Circle

The Silver Circle, a commanding coalition in Rivenport, is ruled by the city's three most prominent families: the Castels, the Aurels, and the Stahls. With a merchant navy that spans the seas of Eärendor, the Silver Circle's influence permeates not only Rivenport but the globe. The organization is critical to the city's prosperity, but rumors of more secretive, possibly unethical activities persist.

Structure

The Public Face

The Silver Circle operates hierarchically, with the city's most influential families—the Castels, Aurels, and Stahls—forming the inner circle. They are the de facto leaders, making strategic decisions and supervising the Circle's plans and operations. Although their identities are publicly known, the true extent of their power and influence remains a topic of conjecture among scholars.
Beneath the ruling families is a network of subsidiary members who hold various significant positions throughout Rivenport. They are tasked with managing the day-to-day activities of the organization, ensuring the Circle's interests are efficiently represented and shielded.

The Merchant Navy

The Silver Circle maintains a formidable merchant navy, essential for protecting its valuable trade goods and transporting exotic resources from around the world. This navy serves as both a symbol of the Circle's wealth and power and as a deterrent to potential competitors.

Families of The Circle

The Castels

Emblematic of Rivenport's Edhenalian roots, the Castels have long held a reputation for their shrewd political manoeuvring and expansive trade network. The Castel's influence can be seen in the grandeur of Edhenalian architecture that adorns the city and the traditional customs that permeate daily life. Their staunch adherence to convention and order is woven into the fabric of the city's governance, with strict laws and regulations reflecting their conservative beliefs.
Led by the formidable Contessa Elara Castel, the family maintains a firm grip on their power, using their positions within the Silver Circle to consolidate and expand their influence. While they have a profound respect for the Aurels' strength and discipline, they regard their militaristic approach as overly aggressive and shortsighted. They maintain a cordial, if somewhat strained, relationship with the Stahls, admiring their diplomatic finesse but often frustrated by their seemingly placatory politics. Despite their alliances within the Silver Circle, the Castels will stop at nothing to ensure the continuation of their power and the preservation of their traditions.
For their emblem, the Castels are represented by a blue lily adorning their outfits and banners.

The Aurels

Influenced by the ancient Eisenkronion roots of Edhenal, the Aurels are known for their military might and strategic acumen. Their significant control over the Silver Circle's navy is a testament to their tactical prowess, and their name is synonymous with the strong and disciplined fleet that ensures Rivenport's dominance over the sea trade routes. The Aurels' militaristic ethos is deeply ingrained in Rivenport's culture, with a disciplined workforce and fortified city structures reflecting their influence.
Jarl Haldor Aurel, the family's head, is a commanding figure who values strength above all else. His vision of Rivenport is one of an impregnable fortress and a formidable trading power. The Aurels view the Castels as necessary allies but deem their rigid adherence to tradition as a potential impediment to progress. Their relationship with the Stahls is nuanced—they appreciate their diplomatic tactics but are wary of their propensity for forging alliances, which they see as potential weaknesses.
For their emblem, the Aurels are represented by a red rose painting their coat of arms, and flying along their ships' flags.

The Stahls

Drawing on the classical aspects of Edhenalli culture, the Stahls are known for their diplomatic prowess and the strategic network of alliances they have cultivated. The Stahls' influence manifests in the city's thriving diplomatic corps and the peace treaties that have allowed Rivenport to expand its trade network without resorting to force. Many of the trade agreements and alliances bolstering the Silver Circle's global reach bear the signature of a Stahl.
Under the stewardship of Patrician Lucius Stahl, the family has championed a doctrine of cooperation and negotiation, often acting as peace brokers in conflicts. The Stahls see the Castels as vital allies, albeit ones hindered by their rigid adherence to tradition. They consider the Aurels' militaristic tendencies as both a necessary evil for the protection of Rivenport and a dangerous path that could lead to unnecessary conflict. Despite their position within the Silver Circle, the Stahls are often viewed with suspicion by the other families due to their widespread network of alliances, but they continue to navigate the volatile political landscape with tact and finesse.
For their emblem, the Stahls are represented by a yellow sunflower on their seals and adorning their clothing.

Influence Over Rivenport

The vast wealth and influence of the Silver Circle, especially that of the Castels, Aurels, and Stahls, allow them to shape Rivenport's political landscape. Circle members hold key positions within the city, from council seats to ownership of major businesses and control over trade routes.

Speculations of Hidden Activities

While the Silver Circle's impact on Rivenport's economy is indisputable, there are persistent rumors of a darker side to the organization. Some suggest that the Circle operates outside the law, using their influence to manipulate local authorities and maintain an appearance of legitimacy. However, these allegations remain unproven.

In Strength and Wealth, We Shape the World.

Founding Date

1114

Type

Financial, Merchant League

Demonym

Silverite

Related Historical Events

• 1114 A.R
  Founding of the Silver Circle