Naval Union

Headquartered in Swanward, the Naval Union is a powerful Clans that has evolved from a collective of sailors, traders, and shipwrights into a dominant force controlling much of the maritime activity on Lake Rorest. While not founded on blood ties, the Union has adopted many structures and traditions common to Rorestvian clans, creating a unique hybrid of professional guild and kinship network. It is one of the largest clans in all of Rorestvia.

Leadership and Structure:

The Naval Union is led by the Admiralty Board, consisting of seven elected members known as Admirals, each overseeing a specific aspect of the Union's operations:
1. Trade Admiral
2. Labor Admiral
3. Shipwright Admiral
4. Security Admiral
5. Finance Admiral
6. Logistics Admiral
7. Grand Admiral (who chairs the board)

Membership in the Naval Union has become almost mandatory for anyone hoping to make a living on Lake Rorest. The Union offers benefits such as access to lucrative contracts, protection from piracy, healthcare, and legal representation. However, membership has strict requirements, including loyalty oaths and adherence to Union traditions.

Influence and Power:

The Naval Union's power stems from its near-monopoly on skilled maritime labor and resources essential to lake-based trade. Their influence extends to:

Control over prime docking spaces in all major ports

Exclusive knowledge of shipbuilding and navigation

A vast network of informants providing trade and political intelligence

The ability to organize Union-wide actions that can impact local economies

Traditions and Culture:

The Naval Union has developed rich cultural traditions that blend maritime lore with clan practices, including:

The annual Founder's Regatta

"The Calling of the Winds" ceremony

A complex system of maritime superstitions

The "Brotherhood of the Oar" initiation rite

Tensions and Challenges:

The Naval Union's power has not gone unchallenged. They face ongoing tensions with Gerrin's government, disputes with land-based clans, and internal debates over the Union's future direction. Their influence touches every aspect of life around Lake Rorest, making them a significant force in Rorestvian politics and commerce.

Type

Geopolitical, Clan

Capital

Swanward

Location

Lake Rorest