The War of Mercantilism

The War of Mercantilism is a skill book in Book II and Book III.

Effects

 * Grants the skill Mercantile if the player character has not learned it.
 * Grants 2 points in the skill Mercantile if the player character has learned it.

Content
"Making the most gold possible from a sale, or buying an item for less than its worth, is referred to as the War of Mercantilism. As a participant, you must always be ready to fight tooth and nail to save or earn each coin.

Knowing who you are dealing with is vital. Greet your opponent, and engage them in idle conversation. Find out what they like or dislike. This will afford you the opportunity to befriend them and take advantage of that friendship during your transactions.

Never let yourself come across as being well-to-do, even if you are! Give people the impression that you are struggling, but trying to cover it up. Wear very clean, but perhaps slightly torn clothings; this will lend to the appearance of a poor, but hardworking individual. Being pitied might hurt your pride, but pride doesn't line your gold pouch. This works equally if you are a buyer or a seller.

Buying or selling an item isn't just about knowing its value, it is much more important to understand how to pitch that value. If you are selling an old, damaged sword, refer to it as having nostalgic or collectible value. Let the potential buyer know how that sword slew the great were-fiend of the Fellpine Forest! If you are buying a sword, don't let the seller's story behind it blind you to its true value. Point out all the flaws you see, and stay focused on your goal price.

Practice these basic maneuvers during your transactions abroad until they become second nature. Once you master these essential skills, you will be well on your way to becoming a general of the bartering battlefield. Go forth and earn much gold, soldier!"

Appearances

 * Eschalon: Book II
 * Eschalon: Book III