The Collective

The Collective is an organization of merchants and craftsmen from every trade. It was originally formed as a means for merchants to pool their money to buy protection of their trade. Over decades it grew and expanded in both the number of members and in the scope of its purpose. It now functions as an international bank and has a monopoly on many markets in certain parts of the world.

History
Write the first section of your page here.

Organization
The collective is composed of merchants, bankers, craftsmen, and lawyers, sorcerers(?) and other specialists. They number in the thousands and do business in many parts of the continent. Each member pays yearly dues and other fees to the treasury, which is controlled by a council of senior members. These members are elected by representatives of merchants in different regions.

Each member merchant is entitled to caravan protection, use of the banks, supplies as needed, etc. Notoriety and respect can also be gained through membership. Despite this, many merchants have been forced to join the Collective either through coercion or because competition could not be beaten.