5. Virtues for Sea Trade
I use these virtues in my Indian Ocean Saga but they may be easily adapted for the Mythic Europe.
Foreign Spouse (Minor Status Virtue)
You have a spouse from a prominent family in a foreign land, such as Persia, India, or East Africa. This alliance provides access to valuable contacts, support within your spouse’s homeland, and their trade network. However, it also requires you to honor certain customs, festivals, and family responsibilities, binding you to the community and its social expectations.
You gain a +3 bonus to social interactions within your spouse’s homeland or trade network. Additionally, once per story, you may call upon your spouse’s family for minor assistance, such as information, local contacts, or protection. This privilege is contingent on maintaining goodwill and honoring the familial obligations that come with the marriage.
Representative of Merchants (Major Status Virtue)
As the Representative of Merchants, you hold a prestigious and influential role in a major port city, such as Venice, Genoa, Calicut, Aden, or Alexandria. Appointed by a ruling authority or merchant guild, you oversee trade activities, mediate disputes, enforce regulations, and support both foreign and local merchants. Known as a protector of commerce, you play a critical role in balancing political interests and economic prosperity in the port. To maintain this position, you must uphold strong, respectful relationships with local rulers, guild leaders, and influential merchants, navigating the complex social and political landscape of the port.
You gain a +3 bonus to social interactions, Bargain, and Leadership rolls when dealing with merchants, ship captains, and port officials within your jurisdiction. You can summon city guards or dock workers to enforce market rules and resolve conflicts. Once per story, you may leverage your network of contacts to gather information, negotiate advantageous trade terms, or access port resources (e.g., prioritizing shipments or adjusting tariffs temporarily). This role provides income equivalent to a Major Wealth virtue, but you must maintain good standing with local rulers or guild authorities to retain this office which also means occasional gift exchanges and bribes.
Favored by the Monsoon (Minor Supernatural Virtue)
Through luck, a protective spirit, or even a blessing from a sea deity, the monsoon winds seem to work in your favor. When others face delays, storms, or misfortune, your ships are more likely to catch favorable winds, ensuring faster and safer travel across the Indian Ocean. Your reputation as a lucky or blessed navigator brings awe and sometimes jealousy.
This virtue grants a +2 bonus to navigation, sea trade or weather-related rolls when relying on seasonal winds. It may reduce travel time and lower the likelihood of shipwrecks or delays. However, others may come to depend on your favor, which can lead to unwanted attention or requests for help.