Merchants Organizations

The Merchants Guilds play a crucial role in facilitating trade commerce and economic prosperity across the continents of Shinpi Teki, Kasvaria, Miqar, Tratias and the snow elven realm. Each guild is responsible for overseeing and regulating commercial activities within it's respective region, promoting fair trade practices and ensuring the mutual benefit of merchants and consumers. While the guilds share a common purpose, they exhibit distinct characteristics and cater to the specific needs and cultural nuances of their respective regions.

* Establishment and Origins:

The Merchants Guilds traces it's roots back to the early days of Wild Sanctum's history when the region thrived on trade routes connecting distant lands. Merchants, recognizing the need for unity and protection, came together to form a collective body to promote fair trade, establish standards and safeguard their interests. The guild's foundation was guided by the principles of mutual cooperation, respect and the preservation of Wild Sanctum's traditions.

* Division into District:

As the guild expanded and it's influence grew, it evolved into four distinct districts , each covering a specific region of continents. The districts were established to cater to the unique needs and trade dynamics of different areas within the continent, ensuring efficient administration and representation.

* Grand Council:

At the apex of the Merchants Guilds stands the Grand Council, comprising esteemed merchants and influential figures who oversee the affairs of the guild. The Grand Council members are elected or appointed based on their expertise, experience and contributions to the guild and the tracling community.

* Smaller Guilds:

Within each district, the Merchants Guilds further branches out into smaller guilds, often based in major cities or trade centers. These smaller guilds function as localized branches, representing the interests and needs of merchants within their respective regions. They facilitate day-to-day operations, maintain close relationships with local authorities and provide support services to members in their areas.

### Continental Guilds:

* Shinpi Teki Merchants Guild
* Kasvarian Merchants Guild
* Miqarian Merchants Guild
* Tratian Merchant Guild
* Snow Elven Merchants Guild

### Rules for joining Guilds

To join any Merchant Guild, aspiring member must adhere to certain rules and guidelines. These rules are in place to maintain the integrity, stability and mutual benefit of the guild. Here are the typical rules for joining and maintaining membership in a Merchant Guild:

* Application Process: Prospective members must formally apply to the guild by submitting an application that includes personal and business details. This application is reviewed by the guild's leadership or membership committee.
* Financial Requirements: To gain permament membership, a first payment in gold pieces is typically required. This payment serves as an entry fee and demonstrates a commitment to the guild's principles. The exact amount varies from guild to guild but is usually a substantial sum.
* Monthly Dues: Members are required to pay monthly dues to the guild. These dues are typically calculated based on a percentage of their trading volume, often around 8%. Additionally, a fixed amount, such as 10 gp is often required as a base fee.
* Code of Conduct: Members must abide by a code of conduct that emphasizes ethical business practices, honesty and fairness in all transactions. This includes refraining from fraud, deceuit and other dishonest activities. Violations of the code may result in disciplinary action or explusion from the guild.
* Guild Meetings and Participation: Members are expected to attend guild meetings, where important matters are discussed and decision are made. Active participation in guild activities, such as trade fairs, workshops or charitable initiatives, is encouraged.
* Sharing of Information: Members are required to share relevant business information with the guild, such as market trends, pricing strategies and trade routes. This fosters a cooperative environment where members can benefit from each other's knowledge and experiences.
* Exclusive Trade Rights: Depending on th guild, members may exclusive trade rights or protection within their designated are of operation. This ensures that members can conduct business without excessive competition from fellow guild members.
* Professional Devlopment: Members are encouraged to continuously improve their skills and knowledge in their respective trades. The guild may offer training programs, workshops or mentorship opportunities to support member's professional development.
* Dispute Resolution: In case of disputes between guild members, there is often a designated process for resolution, which may involve arbitration or mediation by the guild's leadership or a council of respected members.
* Maintaining Reputation: Members are expected to uphold their reputation and that of the guild. Engaging in illegal activities unethical behavior or actions that bring disrepute to the guild can result in immediate termination of membership.

### Ranks in Guilds

In Merchant Guilds, there are various ranks that signify the progression, experience and status of it's members. Each rank carries a different entry fee and provides distinct benefits, including permissions to sell specific items with a Merchant permit. It's important to note that while financial success and contributions play a significant role in advancing through the ranks, most guilds also consider factors such as integrity, reputation, adherence to guild regulations and overall dedication to the merchant profession. Guilds strive to maintain a balance between financial prosperity and upholding the guild's values and standards. Here are the ranks commonly found in Merchant Guilds, along with their associated entry fees and benefits:

* Novice ( Entry fee 100 gp, 5 gp monthly )
	+ Novice Rank is the initial level for new members in the guild. Novices have limited access to the guild's resources and privileges. They can sell basic goods and commodities but may have restrictions on certain high-value or regulated items. Novices are expected to learn from experienced guild members and demonstrate thheir commitment to the guild's values.
* Journeyman ( Entry fee 250 gp, 15 gp monthly )
	+ Journeyman rank represents an intermediate level of expertise and accomplisment. Journeyman enjoy expanded access to the guild's resources and priviliges. They gain the ability to trade in a wider range of goods, including some restricted or specialized items. Journeyman may be granted a Merchant permit that allows them to sell moderately valuable and regulated goods.
* Artisan ( Entry fee 600 gp, 30 gp monthly )
	+ Artisan rank signifies a high level of skill and proficiency within the guild. Artisans have substantial access to the guild's resources and privileges. They can trade in a wide variety of goods, including valuable and specialized items. Artisans may be granted an enhanced Merchant permit that allows them to sell higher-value and regulated goods.
* Master ( Entry fee 1000 gp, 50 gp monthly )
	+ Master rank represents the pinnacle of achievement and expertise in the guild. Masters have full access to all guild resources, benefits and tracking opportunities. They can trade in a vast range of goods, including rare, exotic and highly valuable items. Masters are granted an advanced Merchant permit that allows them to sell even the most regulated and exclusive goods.

It's important to note that the ranks and associated benefits may differ between guilds and regions. The entry fees are a reflection of the investment required to attain the rank and the trust placed in the member's abilities. The specific items allowed for sale with a Merchant permit will depend on the guild's regulations, local laws and the member's rank. Additionally, beyond the Master rank, some may have additional prestigious positions such as Guild Elders or Guild Leaders. These positions are typically achieved through exceptional accomplishments, extensive contributions to the guild and recognition from fellow members. Advancing to higher ranks within the Merchant Guilds can be achieved through different means, depending on the guild's specific policies and criteria for progression. Here are two common methods by which members can attain higher ranks.

* Rank Advancement through Payment

One way to ascend to a higher rank is by paying the required entry fee for the desired rank. This fee is often higher than the previous rank, reflecting the increased privileges and benefits associated with the higher position. Members who demonstrate their financial success and commitment to the guild can choose to invest in their progression by paying the entry fee for the next rank. This methos allows individuals with substantial wealth to directly purchase their way into a higher rank, assuming they meet the other criteria set by the guild.

* Rank Advancement through Exceptional Performance

Another path to higher ranks is through exceptional achievements and contributions to the guild. Members who consistently generate significant revenue or bring substantial business opportunities to the guild may catch the attention of guild leaders and influential members. Exceptional performance can include securing lucritive trade deals, establishing profitable connections or implementing innovative business strategies. Guild leaders may recognize and reward these exceptional individuals by granting them a promotion to a higher rank as a testament to their accomplishments.

### Benefits for members

Being a member of the Merchant Guild comes with a range of benefits that can greatly enhance a merchant's success, reputation and access to resources. Here are some common advantages of being a member of the Merchant Guild.

* Networking and Connections

Membership in the Merchant Guild provides ample opportunities for networking with fellow merchants, guild leaders and influential individuals in the business community. Through guild-sponsored events, meetings and trade fairs, members can establish valuable connections, form partnership and gain access to new markets and tracking opportunities. Networking within the guild can lead to beneficial alliances, collaborations and the sharing of knowledge and industry insights.

* Trade Support and Services

The guild offers various services to it's members, such as transportation and logistics assistance warehousing facilities and access to reliable trade routes. Guild members may receive preferential treatment and discounted rates for essential services like shipping, storage and inventory management. These support services can significantly streamline the merchant's operations, reduce costs and improve overall efficency.

* Reputation and Trust:

Membership in the Merchant Guild lends credibility and prestige to merchants, as the guild's reputation is built on a long-standing history of trustworthiness and fair business practices. Customers, suppliers and other merchants are more likely to trust and prefer guild members due to the association with a reputable and recognized organization. The guild's edorsement can help merchants establish a positive reputation in the market, attracting more customers and business opportunities.

* Legal Protection and Advocacy:

The Merchant Guild often acts as a collective voice for it's members, advocating for their rights and interests in trade-related matters. Guild members receive legal protection and representation in case of disputes, ensuring they have access to fair resolutions and assistance in navigating complex legal frameworks. The guild may also provide guidance on regulating compliance, tariffs, import/export regulations and other legal aspects that impact merchants' operations.

* Market Intelligence and Training:

The guild frequently shares market intelligence, industry trends and insights with it's members, enabling them to stay informed and make informed business decisions. Members may have access to exclusive training programs, workshops and seminars conducted by experienced professionals within the guild. This continuous learning and access to up-to-date information enhance merchants' knowledge, skills and adaptability in a dynamic marketplace.

* Merchant Permits and Trading Privileges:

The guild can provide merchants with permits or licenses to trade is specific goods or markets, allowing them to access restricted or regulated items. Members may have the advantage of being bale to sell high-value or specialized goods that are otherwise inaccessible to non-guild merchants. These permits give members a competetive edge and open additional revenue streams for their businesses.