The Meridian Lantern

Founding and early professionalization occurred after the Isole Merrow and Yara Neth typhoon event. For decades the faction grew by proving its utility: less lost cargo, safer navigation, more reliable fishing yields. The breakthrough fog-clearing event 40 years ago elevated them into a regional institution. Expansion followed: outposts at key capes, legal charters in two provinces, a network of private signing stations at ports. However, prosperity bred schisms. Thirty years ago a deadly experiment created a localized gale that wrecked a fishing village, prompting an internal reform and the institution of 'Log Trials' where decisions are recorded and judged. Ten years ago a confidential archive of talismans and storm-records was stolen by unknown thieves. That theft exposed vulnerability in their security and led to secretive raids to recover artifacts. Presently the Lantern balances public contracts and under-the-table influence as it faces a rising radical subgroup called the Sundered Eye that wants to escalate use of stormcraft for political ends.