3. Choose Action

After interpreting the prompt, the table discusses which of the four actions fits best. Sometimes it's obvious; sometimes there's debate. That discussion is valuable—it reveals what the community prioritizes.

The Four Actions:

CRADLE — Nurture resources, knowledge, culture, or infrastructure

• Plant crops, repair equipment, preserve traditions, teach skills
• Building for the future; sustainability over quick gains
• Proactive care and maintenance

WARD — Defend against immediate threats or dangers

• Fight storms, repel hazards, protect people, secure resources
• Reactive response to danger
• Prevention and protection

PROJECT — Undertake major initiatives requiring time and coordination

• Multi-phase endeavors: new infrastructure, expeditions, cultural reforms
• Can't be completed in one turn
• See Projects section for details

DELIBERATE — Discuss, decide, and set community direction

• Resolve open questions, make policy, address internal conflicts
• Pure social/philosophical work
• Changes community values or priorities

Choosing Guidelines:

The prompt suggests a natural action, but the table can choose differently based on community needs:

• If the prompt presents danger → often Ward
• If it offers opportunity for growth → often Cradle or Project
• If it creates internal tension → often Deliberate
• When in doubt, discuss what the community needs most right now

Example:

Prompt: 7 of Hearts - "Tensions erupt during a ceremony; both factions demand the settlement choose a direction."

Possible responses:

• Cradle: Host a series of small gatherings to build understanding before the division worsens
• Ward: Intervene immediately to prevent the conflict from escalating to violence
• Project: Begin a formal cultural exchange program to bridge the divide
• Deliberate: Call a settlement-wide council to hash out core values and direction

Each approach is valid; the choice reflects the settlement's character and current priorities.