The Mantis hold an effective monopoly on the Empire's trade with the Ivory Kingdoms, and this has allowed their famed wealth to swell to unprecedented levels, with a corresponding boost in political power. The Mantis remain hampered by their lack of numbers and the vulnerability of their limited territory on the mainland. Thankfully, the current era of peace has protected their far-flung territories from military pressure. The successful resolution of the crisis between them and the Scorpion several years ago has also been to their benefit, greatly improving their relations with the Clan which has traditionally been among their fiercest enemies. As a result, the Mantis are among Miya Shikan's strongest supporters in the courts.