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.