# Merlin

![Our oracle's name is Merlin!](https://1828206389-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FV0P5qNDK9BGEOsM3Ttnq%2Fuploads%2Fzz3LHeZ7u07fWcEJEr72%2Fbackground-g6fd41bccb_640.jpg?alt=media\&token=f8bd101c-22a8-4d07-8a9e-89e04d5f24b6)

## Purpose

Merlin is SiegeQuest's price oracle. His purpose is to balance the $SIEGE payout gained through Attacking Strongholds, along with minting costs, to the current dollar value of $SIEGE.&#x20;

This means that the following will happen if the dollar value per $SIEGE increases:&#x20;

-$SIEGE payouts decrease&#x20;

-Recruiting Soldiers costs less $SIEGE&#x20;

If $SIEGE price in dollar decreases the opposite of the above becomes true.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
Merlin will dynamically adjust costs and rewards up or down depending on changes in the dollar value of $SIEGE
{% endhint %}

## Reason

The reason for Merlin's usage is so that the economy of the game is balanced around a set dollar value.

By utilizing the oracle, SiegeQuest forms a correlation between active users and the USD value of $SIEGE. When the $SIEGE price rises, the demand for $SIEGE increases as well through the release of new game features or an influx of new players. The oracle will ensure consistent USD value payouts per transaction at the time it was made, along with ensuring minting costs for NFTs remain at a consistent dollar value.&#x20;

This means that entry costs and rewards can be balanced and maintained for extended periods of time, and will accurately reflect the desired minting costs to allow new players a chance to play even if the USD value of $SIEGE rises.
