Origins and Evolution:
Originally a humble ledger for goods, services, and travel notices, The Exchange began as a practical community resource pinned in folk inns and village halls. It included listings for livestock trades, requests for weather omens, and odd jobs — but somewhere between second-hand boots and offers of cider-making, the heartsick began to post. The transition was subtle. A note here. A poem there.
“Seeking kind companion for long walks and quiet nights. Must appreciate stewed fruit.”
Now, centuries later, The Exchange is one of Gildraen’s most enduring publications — no longer for trade, but for courtship.
Structure and Operation:
The main office sits just off a quiet market square in Lindral — a charming, ivy-draped two-storey building with pigeon cubbies out back. It produces a monthly countrywide edition, supported by a small but passionate staff. Regional editions — like The Exchange in Astravayne or The Exchange in Grimblethrope — appear quarterly, and are typically curated by eccentric locals who treat submission deadlines with solemn intensity. All editions are colloquially called The Exchange, regardless of origin.
Submitters may pay extra for elegant “flourishes”: decorative borders, woodcut portraits, or shimmer-ink enchantments that glow faintly when touched. Copies from other regions can be discreetly requested through the postal service.
The Archive:
At least one copy of every issue is preserved in a secretive archive. Some speculate it’s housed within The Library itself — though the House of Scholars publicly scoffs at the idea, which only fuels the rumours.
Reputation and Reception:
Among commoners and artisans, appearing in The Exchange is seen as hopeful or romantic. For the Evergild Houses and nobility, however, it is the subject of scorn — vulgar, unnecessary, even laughable. Nonetheless, the odd dog-eared copy has been spotted in high council chambers.
In noble circles, submitting to The Exchange has become a secret indulgence or playful rebellion. It is as likely to result in a scandalous elopement as in a humble, enduring partnership.
Magical Attempts:
Numerous attempts have been made to enchant The Exchange. Few have gone well:
- One edition burst into flames whenever the matched couple argued.
- A floating poem enchanted by a lovesick apprentice lingered in the air every morning for years.
- A sentient pamphlet fell in love with its writer and wouldn’t stop delivering itself to her bedside.
Cultural Impact:
The Exchange has been immortalised in bawdy theatre and ribald folk songs. It is frequently mocked — but just as often cherished. Its signature scent — aged paper, lavender wax seal, and rose-oil ink — has even been replicated in boutique perfumes.
Notable Legends and Listings:
- The Forsythe Ad: A romantic plea that ran for six years from a woman known only as “E.”
- The Red Ink Listing: A satirical post by a jester that led to sincere marriage.
- A Misprinted Heart: A disastrous issue with mismatched names that resulted in chaos… and seven weddings.
Successful Matches:
- Thalen and Mira of Greyfen: A quiet carpenter’s ad drew a travelling singer with a tired heart. They now live above his workshop, where Mira teaches music to children.
- Lady Avessa Marrowind and the Cook of Witherhearth: Her anonymous line — “I dream of meat pies and meaning” — was answered by a widowed cook. They married two winters later.
- Jorell and Sorrel: Two marshland farmers flirted across three issues. The final reply: “Rain’s coming. Bring boots. The kettle’s on.”
Common Phrasing:
- “She’s on the Exchange.” – She’s submitted a romantic listing.
- “Fresh off the Exchange.” – Recently matched.
- “Exchange-worthy.” – Said flirtatiously, or to tease.
- “Don’t make me put you on the Exchange.” – A common family joke.
- “An Exchange poem.” – A romantic gesture, clumsy but sincere.
