Editing Mercenaries and Companies

== Mercenaries and Companies ==
Every new character in Tanyth begins their journey as a Mercenary.

Mercenaries are independent adventurers, warriors, mages, explorers, and fortune-seekers who make a living by taking contracts and building their reputation within the city. Unlike Company members, Mercenaries are not tied to any organisation and are free to choose their own path.

Many Mercenaries eventually join a Company, while others prefer the freedom of working independently throughout their entire career.

In Tanyth, reputation is everything. Whether you remain a Mercenary or join a Company, your actions, successes, and failures will shape how others perceive you and what opportunities become available to your character.

=== Playing as a Mercenary ===
Mercenaries take part in weekly games alongside the Companies operating within Tanyth.

Each week, a number of Companies are selected to undertake missions on behalf of their Benefactors. Players who are not members of those Companies, including permanent Mercenaries and members of Companies not selected for a mission, may be recruited to bolster a side's numbers for that night's game.

Mercenaries earn the same standard rewards as all other players on their side:
* Victory: 2 Copper and 2 Personal Reputation.
* Defeat: 1 Copper and 1 Personal Reputation.

In certain high-stakes or story-driven missions, the losing side may receive reduced rewards or no rewards at all, depending on the outcome of the scenario.

Mercenaries do not normally receive any bonus rewards that may be granted to members of a victorious Company, such as rare items, additional treasure, special favours, or other unique rewards.

However, Mercenaries who build a strong personal reputation may gain access to additional benefits and opportunities, allowing them to compete with established Company members while maintaining their independence.

=== Personal Reputation ===
Personal Reputation is a measure of your character's achievements, influence, and standing within the Free City of Tanyth.

As you participate in missions, earn victories, and make a name for yourself, your Personal Reputation will grow. A higher reputation can unlock new opportunities, attract the attention of important individuals, and influence how others react to your character.

Personal Reputation also contributes to the strength of any Company you join, helping that Company secure better contracts and opportunities.

For Mercenaries, Personal Reputation is especially important. While Mercenaries do not normally receive the same bonus rewards as Company members, those who build a strong reputation can earn additional benefits and recognition, proving that an individual can become just as influential as an organised group.

In Tanyth, reputation is more than a number. It is your character's legacy, and one of the most valuable assets they can possess.

Personal Reputation Chart
0–9: Nobody
 You are unknown and untested. No one remembers your face or name. You exist in the background.
10–19: Seen
 You’ve made a minor impression. A few people recognize you, but you're still just another face in the crowd.
20–29: Noticed
 Your actions are beginning to draw attention. Small-time clients may reach out, and others start to remember your name.
30–39: Known
 You’ve earned a modest reputation. Your reliability is spoken of in certain circles. Better jobs begin to appear.
40–49: Recognised
 You're starting to matter. Factions acknowledge your presence, and rivals may start watching you more closely.
50–59: Respected
 People take you seriously. Your name carries some weight, and you may be sought after for more delicate or dangerous work.
60–69: Trusted or Feared
 You’ve proven yourself. Allies rely on you, and enemies keep their distance. Your choices start influencing your Company’s standing.
70–79: Esteemed
 You’ve built a solid reputation. Doors open for you, and people listen when you speak. You’re considered a serious player in the city.
80–89: Influential
 You wield influence in more than just your own circles. Factions seek your favor. Your words and actions have lasting impact.
90–99: Renowned
 You’re well known across Tanyth. Tales of your deeds are told in taverns and council halls alike. You shape the story around you.
100+: Named
 You are a figure of legend. Your name is etched into the city’s memory. People follow your lead, and your reputation precedes you wherever you go.

=== Reputation Rewards ===
While Mercenaries normally receive only the standard rewards for winning or losing a mission, those who consistently prove their worth can earn additional benefits through their Personal Reputation.

As your reputation grows, you may become eligible for bonus rewards, special opportunities, and increased recognition within Tanyth.

* '''30+ Reputation''' — May occasionally receive minor bonus rewards such as extra coin, small favours, or minor trinkets.
* '''50+ Reputation''' — Eligible to receive standard Company bonus rewards when on the winning side of a mission.
* '''70+ Reputation''' — Considered an elite operative. May receive special story opportunities, recognition, or direct approaches from Companies and Benefactors.
* '''100+ Reputation''' — Regarded as a legendary free agent. Receives full access to Company-level rewards and may be offered exclusive contracts or secret missions.

These rewards are only granted when the Mercenary is part of the winning side and are always subject to the needs of the story and the approval of game staff.

=== Reputation Loss ===
In Tanyth, reputation is everything. It defines your value, your opportunities, and your place within the city's ever-changing web of power.

Poor decisions, failed contracts, broken promises, betrayal, or other actions may result in a loss of Personal Reputation.

If a character's Personal Reputation is reduced to '''0''', they have fallen into obscurity. Their name carries little weight and they have lost the influence they once possessed.

If a character's Personal Reputation is ever reduced below '''0''', the character is considered permanently lost. Whether they fled the city in disgrace, were quietly eliminated by their enemies, or simply vanished without a trace, their story comes to an end.

This is treated as a permanent character death. The player loses:
* All XP associated with that character.
* All Copper, Treasures, and Items owned by that character.
* All Company memberships, influence, and standing.

A new character must then be created to continue playing.

In Tanyth, reputation is your greatest asset, but it is also your most fragile. Once lost, it may never be recovered.