══════════════════════════════════════
PAGE 6
Folder: World
Title: Currency & Trade
══════════════════════════════════════
# Currency & Trade
## Overview
Trade is the lifeblood of civilization. Every kingdom depends upon merchants to move food, weapons, textiles, medicines, and luxury goods between cities. While most trade follows established roads and sea routes, many fortunes are made by those willing to venture into dangerous lands.
---
## Currency
Although each kingdom mints its own coins, most merchants accept foreign currency based on its metal content.
The most common denominations are:
• Copper Coins – Everyday purchases such as food, drinks, candles, and lodging.
• Silver Coins – Standard wages, tools, livestock, and common trade.
• Gold Crowns – Land, rare weapons, armor, property, and expensive goods.
• Platinum Royals – Reserved for nobles, wealthy guilds, royal treasuries, and major international trade.
---
## Trade Goods
Common exports include:
• Grain
• Lumber
• Iron
• Stone
• Wool
• Salt
• Fish
• Wine
• Herbs
• Livestock
Luxury goods include:
• Silk
• Exotic spices
• Precious gems
• Enchanted items
• Ancient relics
• Rare books
---
## Merchant Guilds
Merchant guilds regulate trade across much of Ashenveil.
They establish trade agreements, protect caravans, resolve disputes, and influence local politics through wealth rather than military power.
Many nobles owe their prosperity to successful merchants.
---
## Caravans
Large caravans travel between kingdoms under heavy guard.
Bandits, monsters, harsh weather, and political unrest make long-distance trade dangerous but profitable.
Caravan masters often possess better knowledge of current events than local rulers.
---
## Markets
Every settlement hosts some form of market.
Small villages trade livestock and harvests.
Large cities contain permanent marketplaces where goods from distant kingdoms arrive daily.
Traveling merchants often bring foreign news alongside their merchandise.
---
## Related Pages
• Roads & Travel
• Everyday Life
• Kingdoms
• Merchant Guild
• Society & Social Classes