Glencole Compact

The Glencole Compact is a new written declartion of the various ascpects of noble power in Highworth. It actually rescticts several powers and gives some control to the urban elite that is forming there. It is a very revoltunary document.

History
After the gradual withdrawl of Imperial power, trade blossomed in Highworth. As trade began to flow down the river, and away from Cevlet, the population exploded. In addation a long reign of realtive peace took over, whichw as conducive to trade. As towns, villages and cities grew poltical power began to move away from the landed manors and castle and to the newly rich urban traders and marketmen.

One hundred years before this game starts, a minor disagrement over Fair Days in Jackdale grew until it wracked the entire region. Urbanites wanted mroe control over taxes and custom (and wanted to avoid tolls on river boats) while landed lords wanted to mantain thier current control. In the end, susprisngly, the urban factions won out and forced the nobels to sign the Glencole Compact. While it has been breached at times, it has generally been held up as a remarkable example of a changing world.

Powers and Restrictions
In essence the Compact gives many rights to urban traders and merchants. Some of these include right of fair passage, lifting of many tolls and taxes on waterways, Fair Days are now run by the city or town they take place in, and the establishment of the powers of city Mayors, who now control much wealth.