Sardar Fairs: Four great fairs are held each year on the plains below the western slopes of the Sardar Mountains. These fairs are free ground for the competitive cities of Gor and provide almost the only opportunity for people of all areas to meet peaceably.
The Merchant Caste effectively arranges and administers the Fairs though they are nominally under the direction of a committee of the Initiates. But, the Initiates are simply content with its ceremonies and sacrifices. They are pleased to delegate to the Merchants. The Fairs are supported by booth rents and taxes levied on goods exchanged.
The fair of En'Kara occurs in the spring and is the first fair of the Sardar cycle. The Fairs are governed primarily by Merchant Law. It is also a crime against the Priest-Kings to bloody one's weapon at the fairs. The prohibition against violence does not extend to slaves. In addition, no one may be enslaved at the fair though slaves can be purchased.
The various Castes use the fairs to exchange information with each other. Usually, each caste holds its own convention to meet. The Fairs are common ground to settle territorial and commercial disputes. Political negotiation and intrigue are secretly rampant. The commercial facilities are the finest on Gor save for those of Ar. Loans are negotiated but usually at usurious rates. Various contests are held such as wrestling, racing, feats of strength, and skill with bow and spear. Choruses and poets compete in theaters. Almost anything is available for purchase.
Gorean Sardar Fairs
By DeGrey