They allow this so long as militarized ventures are limited to ≤5 soldiers per group.
The League's diplomats thank the tribes graciously. Scouts are sent to the tribes beyond, though they unfortunately cannot safely haul the same amount of offerings as their number of guards per group is limited (for fair reasons, of course).
Fahdonus I nol Tiidahmaan reveals in the Imperator's court today that he's been working on the plans for a rudimentary trading group, structured almost like a clan. The group would act as a largely autonomous entity of the League, despite being
de jure under the Grand Imperator's command. This organized, resource-laden trade company would of course turn over most of its profits to the League, but for the most part it would have the ability to hire and train its own levies for use in driving off highwaymen. While this concept may seem militant, Fahdonus makes it clear that the individual caravans wouldn't need to be as menacingly armed. This is because in the scenario that the caravan is robbed, and thus the trade goods never reach their destination, the trade company would be aware that something happened. A warband would be dispatched to hunt and capture/kill the bandits. In comparison, an independent caravan here or there would easily go missing without any tribe or clan noticing. This is why independent caravans need to be well armed: they have no long-term protection. The sorts of criminals that would threaten entire caravans would also be the kind smart enough to keep their knowledge of what's protecting the caravans up-to-date, which is why the threat of a warband could serve as a deterrent. Those who take part in trade with the company, and those employed by the company would otherwise receive regular payment/profits.
In short, the formation of this group would allow for safer and better organized trade, caravans needing less of an armament, and would allow for higher-profile economic activity without direct government assistance, meaning the League's government footprint would be lighter as well.
Krilaan I nol Tertahlon strongly approves of the plans, as it would mean a non-government caravan's ignoble mercenaries would be replaced with disciplined, trained guards.
Ruveyzun I calls for a council with the foreign tribes who, in the past, have been more accepting of trade agreements. The subject is the creation of this trade company. The benefits for both the League and the foreign tribes are noted. In the scenario that they accept, the newly formed trade company would recruit caravaneers and guards from both the League's tribes and the foreign tribes alike.
Poll