Investors in Ardor trading companies have been getting jittery since Amber has put its fleets on a war footing and imposed draconian measures to control 'piracy'. In the face of crippling charges for naval escorts, independent traders have effectively shut up shop, leaving what remains to the virtual duopoly of one time star performer The Gulf of Koros Trading Company (GKTC) and its smaller rival the Koronande Free Trade Corporation (KFTC). Short term yields have kept GKTC investors happy, but even the most bullish have watched the military build-up in the region with concern. If the situation is anything but temporary, share prices are likely to suffer steep falls.

Optimists remain hopeful that once higher prices and rationing of imported goods begins to bite, King Oberon will act to open up markets once more. This is a minority view. Most merchants have reverted to overland distribution and short coastal hops to maintain turnover and avoid the excess tariffs of current overseas distribution. Overall it is hard to see a bright future for any international enterprise while the prospect of war looms large on every border. Analysts recommend selling stock or battening down the hatches for a long haul.

This text is copyright © Craig Lucas; "Amber" is copyright © Roger Zelazny; "Amber" the diceless RPG is copyright © Phage Press. No copyright infringement is intended.

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