Covenant Organization
The covenant of Obodas is based within the Regio of Avdat. And most of it is hidden from plain view. Within the Regio, and outside, they have pastures and vineyards that they operate, as well as a very large way station, for caravans crossing the desert to rest and refresh.
Ismahil is the person most travelers meet, as he’s the one operating the waystation. With him is Garth, a man of English origins that has little head for the business side, but is able to speak multiple languages, and acts as interpreter.
And of course, Pierre, Benoit’s companion, that is usually found traveling the Crusader kingdoms, selling wine and beer made at the covenant, and gathering rumors and news.
Magi and Redcaps arriving, when they identify themselves, have Maurice greet them, and welcome them to the covenant proper. Few outsiders have seen the covenant grounds.
The covenfolk are divided, almost half are locals, mostly from Bedouin origins, though some Jews reside there. But the majority are of European descent, mostly from France, and countries close to it. There’s some slight schism, but nothing major, so far.
Hierarchy and Governance
Vivienne rules the covenant, even though there’s a council of Magi. Few dare to speak against her, but that’s partly because she usually lets the Magi do their own work, unless something is need that some or all need to cooperate. But everyone knows that she’s getting close to Final Twilight, and they work on maintaining good ties, so the covenant doesn’t explode when that comes to pass.
Maurice likewise rules supreme among the covenfolk, but he does take advice from others, when it comes to issue he’s not familiar enough with.
Income Sources
The main source of income is the waystation. It is situated on a well traveled road, and many stop here, since there aren’t many such stations on the way, and the Arabs and Bedouin sometimes strike at night.
But they also sell wine and beer that they produce, and they engage in some minor trade themselves, buying spices and fragrances and selling them to the Crusader Kingdoms, and beyond.
The herds of cattle are a very minor income source, as they sell meat, milk, and cheese. Unfortunately, there aren’t many pastures, so they have to keep the herds small.