Mandarinate

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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:
^{Who might be encountered who opposes the group}

• Corrupt test administrator
• Incompetent but highly-rated graduate
• Ruthless leader of a clan of high-testing relations

Friends:
^{Who might offer the group services or missions}

Crusader for test reform

Talented but poorly-connected graduate

Genius who tests badly

Complications:
^{How might the situation on the world be more complicated}

The test is totally unrelated to necessary governing skills

The test was very pertinent in the past but tech or culture has changed

The test is for a skill that is vital to maintaining society but irrelevant to day-to-day governance

The test is a sham and passage is based on wealth

or influence

Things:
^{What items might be found on the world}

• Answer key to the next test
• Lost essay of incredible merit
• Proof of cheating

Places:
^{What locations might be found on the world}

Massive structure full of test-taking cubicles

School filled with desperate students

Ornate government building decorated with scholarly quotes and academic images

Tags: Politics