Mandarinate
The planet is ruled by an intellectual elite chosen via ostensibly neutral examinations or tests. The values this system selects for may or may not have anything to do with actual practical leadership skills, and the examinations may be more or less corruptible.
Enemies
dice: [[mandarinate^enemies]]
| dice: 1d3 | Enemies |
|---|---|
| 1 | Corrupt test administrator |
| 2 | Incompetent but highly-rated graduate |
| 3 | Ruthless leader of a clan of high-testing relations |
Friends
dice: [[mandarinate^friends]]
| dice: 1d3 | Friends |
|---|---|
| 1 | Crusader for test reform |
| 2 | Talented but poorly-connected graduate |
| 3 | Genius who tests badly |
Complications
dice: [[mandarinate^complications]]
| dice: 1d4 | Complications |
|---|---|
| 1 | The test is totally unrelated to necessary governing skills |
| 2 | The test was very pertinent in the past but tech or culture has changed |
| 3 | The test is for a skill that is vital to maintaining society but irrelevant to day-to-day governance |
| 4 | The test is a sham and passage is based on wealth or influence |
Things
dice: [[mandarinate^things]]
| dice: 1d3 | Things |
|---|---|
| 1 | Answer key to the next test |
| 2 | Lost essay of incredible merit |
| 3 | Proof of cheating |
Places
dice: [[mandarinate^places]]
| dice: 1d3 | Places |
|---|---|
| 1 | Massive structure full of test-taking cubicles |
| 2 | School filled with desperate students |
| 3 | Ornate government building decorated with scholarly quotes and academic images |