We've often been asked, on the feedback forum and elsewhere, to make more of the various Connected qualities in Echo Bazaar. We're taking a step in that direction today with connection items.
If you have a look at the Curiosity section of the Bazaar, you'll see that there's a gaggle of new trinkets there. These are all usable items, and can be used to increase Connected qualities. But more than just a mechanical contrivance, these things are badges of affiliation.
Right now, the only use for these things is to increase the Connected qualities. But we're planning on adding some content for them, whether based directly on having the items, or having high Connected qualities that the items can help with.
The prices of the items reflect how difficult it is to increase the Connected quality otherwise. The rarer ones are more expensive, and the rarest Connected qualities don't have an item at all. The Masters of the Bazaar, among others, aren't swayed by such baubles. There is an item for the university, and it's up to you to decide whether Benthic or Summerset gets your patronage. If you've suffered a certain setback in your academic career, the item won't help you directly. But the time might come when you need a solid reputation with one of the colleges to reclaim your academic credentials.