On Theocracy

On Theocracy

An Introduction

   As we draw upon a full half century of the institution of Astroist theocracy I feel it is incumbent upon me to write a treaties on the history, theory and practice of the most influential and perfect form of governance ever bestowed upon Dwilight. It is my central thesis, and I think this shall not be controversial that theocracy is intimately linked with the Church of Sanguis Astroism and so ecclesiastic history and theory shall also be traced as I lay bare my many meditations on the subject of religious governance. 

On the early days of the church

   There are few who do not know that Theocracies were created by the prophet Mathurin, father of our church and that the first theocracy was the Empire of Morek. In the early days of our holy church the faith was governed by the Prophet himself as well as a body of elders called “The Council of Cardinals”. As the religion grew, ever more sophisticated engines of organization needed to be created to bring order to the growing multitudes of common worshipers and nobles, the latter of which exceeded a hundred in number.

   In the earliest days of theocracy, the church had a far more direct role in governance of Astroist realms. Mathurin would hand-pick the judge of each new theocracy. Later the elder council would decide. By the time of the founding of Niselur this tradition had passed out of use and instead the judge simply swore a special oath to the church and the elders voted for a token approval. Though this aspect of theocracy did not endure other standards have lasted well into the present. 

   Throughout its history Sanguis Astroism has practiced a sort of practical tolerance for false faiths. In the age of the Prophet only three faiths have ever been declared evil, Torenism, Hredmonath, Orthodox Astroism and the Cult of the Bloodmoon. The rest however we do not attack outright, but will not suffer to spread actively within our lands, thus all theocracies have had the following laws:

1. That an unbeliever may not serve as ruler or judge, nor may they be duke or lord of a city. 2. That preaching by false faiths shall not be permitted in any Astroist lands. 3. That no temple or shrine of a false faith shall be built in any Astroist lands.

   These standards will be referred to in subsequent passages and so for convenience I shall refer to them as “the three prohibitions”.

   Within two decades of the founding of Sanguis Astroism the church introduced what we today call the “Old Charter”. Never was there a code of law more perfectly suited to guiding that which it had dominion over. 

   I will not repeat this charter in its entirety, but I will point out those features of it which will be unfamiliar to that more recent generation for whom it may be unfamiliar. The old charter included the familiar lights and luminaries, but their purpose and nature differed greatly of what we see today. In addition, the rank of “regent’ is a concept that will seem alien to those who have only known the new charter

   In the elder days a Light was meant to be the living embodiment of their patron star. Their luminaries were handpicked successors, with the approval of a fellow light these priests would be chosen and when a light died or abdicated the luminary would replace them. Our current system, by which lights are elected and then choose their stars is certainly contrary to the original rules of the office.

   It will surprise many to know that the original text of the charter had far fewer requirements for consulship. There was no requirement that consuls hail from outside of a theocracy, the very idea being absurd at the time. Neither did it explicitly require lay faithful be consuls, forbidding priests, though this soon became the traditional standard. The rule merely said they be full members. It also featured a tradition that obligated a consul to step down to run for reelection. 

   Last but certainly not least the old charter featured a Regent. This was the highest office any member of the congregation could aspire to, second only to the prophet himself. Lofty as the title was the regent was limited in his power to act. He could not defy a vote of the elder council and was more administrator than ruler. 
   What made this charter a most perfect system was that prophet himself oversaw it. The elder council could manage day to day affairs of the faith while the prophet could focus on spiritual matters, but in times of crisis the Prophet’s will remained supreme. Thus, together council, congregation, and the prophet could strive ever towards greater order and enlightenment.

   Yet as perfectly suited as the old charter was to govern the old church, it would prove utterly ill-suited to the challenges of the post-prophetic age.

On the Dawn and Dusk of the Golden Age of Sanguis Astroism

   In the 20th year A.C. on Dwilight the Church of Sanguis Astrosim reached its zenith. With five mighty theocracies unified under the Northern Astroist Federation it seemed the faith of the Bloodstars was destined for total supremacy. Theocracies reigned over nearly the northern half of both Dwilight’s continents and the faith was also common among secular realms as many Lurians and Terrans proudly proclaimed faith in the Bloodstars. The enemies of the church were utterly cowed and heathens quaked at the mere suggestion of a crusade. Those who remember this happy time call it “The Golden Age”.

   In the far East Morek Empire, the first theocracy, birthplace of our church, stretched as far south as Balance’s Retreat. At the heart of the Astroist World the prophet Mathurin ruled from the holy state of Corsanctum. Further West lay Astrum, not confined to its ancestral isles as we see today but instead straddling two continents. So expansive was Astrum that it nearly touched the Western sea from its most distant outpost in Wallershire. 

   Along with these three elder theocracies lay two younger more energetic realms. Based in the sacred city of Darfix, jewel of all Dwilight, the Realm of Iashalur was ruled by none other than my great Uncle Turin Erickson. Finally, there was a realm, named in a most self-aggrandizing fashion after its founder. I speak of course about Kabrinskia. Ironically these two realms mark both the pinnacle of Theocratic rule, and also its downfall. 

The Great Continental War

   To understand how the fruits of victory sowed the seeds of destruction for this union we must first draw back to the beginning of the age of Astroist dominion on Dwilight. There is some debate among scholars of when precisely “The Golden Age” began. Some put it at the formation of the Northern Astroist Federation, but this, I think is too late. Some place it instead with the founding of Old Niselur, but that I think is too early. I choose instead the conclusion of The Great Continental War.

   Thulsoma was once a theocracy of Sanguis Astroism. This ended with the rise of a tyrant named Haruka. She reformed the realm and introduced a heathen belief called Hredmonath. This led to religious strife among their peasantry. Unsatisfied by the progress of her cult thus far the wicket Haruka committed further offenses including the arrest and torture of our priests. 

   Ultimately, the great Brance Indirik called down a holy crusade upon Thulsoma and the cult of Hredmonath. The war would expand to include Summerdale and Libero Empire on the Astroist side and Averoth and Caerwyn on the Anti-Astroist side or so called “League of Free Nations”. I credit this war with the eventual development of a standard, which the leaders of the Golden age held as sacred, that theocratic land ought never to become non-theocratic land, whether by annexation by a secular power, introduction of a foreign faith or reform from within.

   The Eastern theater of the war saw Thulsoma destroyed by the combined might of Morek, Libero Empire and Summerdale. Meanwhile Astrum found itself in dire straits, attacked from two fronts by Caerwyn in the South and Averoth in the North. Caerwyn destroyed temples in Duil and Chrysantalys and Rowan Geronus passed from Kingship into martyrdom during a crushing defeat at Ygg d’Razhuul. 

   The war soon turned in the church’s favor. Thulsoma fell, allowing the northern alliance to focus on Averoth. In what has been called the greatest siege battle in the history of Dwilight the combined might of Astrum, Morek Empire, Summerdale, Corsanctum and Libero Empire converged on Valkyria, wearing down its defenses over several days.

   There is little to say of Caerwyn. Once safe from Averoth Astrum easily destroyed her. Some of her regions defected to neighboring Asylon and others went rogue.

Darfix, Niselur and Iashalur

   The founding of Iashalur coincides with the end of the Continental War. Darfix was long sought after by the church given its proximity to the Blood Stars themselves. The faith was not alone in coveting this nation and at one time no less than three colony efforts vied for the city. 

   The quest for Darfix is a testament to foresight our holy mother church had in the glory days of Sanguis Astroism. They saw in Darfix, as in other colonizing efforts the chance to spread the faith. By supporting these enterprising expeditions, they showed them the “Open Hand” as it were and in doing so secured Northern Dwilight for the Blood Stars.

   I am intimately familiar with these details as my Great Uncle’s surviving notes mention them and in fact credit them with his joining the church. First there was the “Luck” Jack Carnes expedition. In exchange for monetary support Carnes joined the church, encouraged his followers to do so and further he promised that a temple would be built in Darfix. When the Carnes expedition failed most of its members, Turin included, joined the Arrakis expedition. This endeavor also secured church funding, but it required a greater commitment, the promise that their realm would be founded as a Temple. There is an important lesson in this, that the church can gain greatly when it takes an interest in the founding of new realms.

   The first Darfix-based theocracy, Niselur, did not last long. Though it grew to encompass even the duchy of Gaston hordes of monsters and undead soon rose up to devour it. The title “King In Exile” of Niselur passed to Rev Athins and then to Turin. In time, with Astrum’s support, Niselur was reborn as Iashalur towards the end of the Great Continental War. This fledgling realm began in the duchy of Gaston and with great effort ultimately reclaimed Darfix.

Kabrinskia

   Astrum came to acquire the lands that would become Kabrinskia following their victory over Caerwyn in the Great Continental War. The Farrowlands for a time fell rogue but Astrum soon restored civilization. The founding of a new realm based in Golden Farrow was negotiated for by Vasilif Rowan Geronus of Astrum and Allison Kabrinski. Even in those early days Allison was among the more divisive figures in the church. A devotee of the Maddening, she was known to speak harshly even to the prophet himself. There was also an incident in which, as light of the Maddening she ousted Aram Stein from his lordship by excommunicating him and carrying out an auto de fe, seizing his lands for herself. Yet Allison was also known to have converted many peasants and nobles alike. She also distinguished herself as a commander in the war with Caerwyn. She was at least once tortured for her faith, and she had many followers. Moreover, it is said that she first proposed the Northern Astroist Federation.

The Archons and the Northern Astroist Federation

   During this time two important political changes took place. First a new elder rank was created, Archon. In an effort to more directly involve the rulers of the theocracies in church affairs and better represent their noble citizens all rulers were granted a voting rank in the elder council. Turin seems to be credited with this development, though it is not clear if he was in fact it’s architect or merely an early advocate.

   In addition, and perhaps in part due to this development the Northern Astroist Federation formed, uniting Astrum, Morek, Corsanctum, Kabrinskia and Iashalur in an unbreakable union. The league proved very stable and a force to be reckoned with in the coming war. This organization is more firmly credited to Allison.

The Second Occidental War

   It is often the case that a realm, or league of realms will reach its highest point by defeating their last great challenger, yet paradoxically once enemies from without are defeated, enemies from within multiply and once great unions become divided and fall into darkness. Such is very much the case with the Northern Astroist Theocracies.

   The last realms of any significance to pose a threat to the theocracies were Asylon and Terran. Asylon was the birthplace of the Cult of the Bloodmoon a faith seemingly dedicated to debauchery and madness. Terran, it is said was not hostile to Sanguis Astroism and even had faithful nobles fighting in its defense during the war. In spite of this amiability war began between these two powers and the theocracies in the Winter of 18 YD.

   According to chronicles compiled by Dwilight University it was Terran who first declared war on Kabrinskia. We have Bowie Ironside’s detailed account of the origins of the war which he called “a complicated and convoluted issue to neatly iron out”. He goes on to write” Both sides of this war claim the other to be the antagonist. Overlooking their bias, I have found that technically they are both right.”

   Ironsides suggests that hostility began when Allison attempted to prevent the conversion of Chief Magistrate Hireshmont II Vellos by the Prophet Mathurin. Why she would do this he does not say. I find this to be a insufficient explanation, and as Ironsides was a noted anti-Astroist I think he is going out of his way to exaggerate if not outright fabricate religious elements to the war.

   I believe Hireshmonts own words speak for themselves as to the cause of the war:

“Grandmistress Allison,

   The Republic of Terran has determined that, in light of Kabrinskia's recent attempts to undermine our alliance with Asylon, and repeated violations of the territorial integrity of both Terran and D'Hara, and your own direct and personal attempt to pay Terran to fight Kabrinskia in Demyansk, we find Kabrinskian nobles to be too dangerous a liability to allow in Terran. Our earlier treaty of amity which you broke remains in effect and we do not renege on any provision of it, however, we cannot in good conscience tolerate violations of our sovereignty.

As such, henceforth, all nobles of Kabrinskia, be they trader, priest, soldier, courtier or cavalier, are prohibited from the lands of Terran. Barring the explicit invitation of an official of the Republic of Terran (a Senator or Magistrate), which shall be provided prior to entrance into Terran's land, no Kabrinskian noble may enter Terran.

   In the event that a Kabrinskian noble does enter Terran's lands, and we observe that fact, we will take all necessary measures to apprehend or, if that is impossible, kill the violator. If it is necessary to do so, we will make a formal declaration of war to accomplish this goal.

However, if it should occur that we must declare war in order to prevent Kabrinskian nobles from invading our lands, we shall not (unless Kabrinskia responds with military force) invade Kabrinskia proper, but rather shall simply continue in the regular policing of our lands. We have no desire for your lands or gold; we only desire to live in peace on our own lands. As such, while we will declare war to protect our sovereignty if necessary, we wish it to be known to all rulers that such a declaration would stand, not as a declaration of intent to materially damage or destroy Kabrinskia, nor as an expression of any religious or ideological grievance, but simply as part of Terran's long-standing commitment to the defense of our borders.

   I request that you inform your nobles of this law, that they might not come to mischief because of ignorance.

Long Days and Pleasant Nights, Hireshmont II Vellos Chief Magistrate of Terran”

   Kabrinskia condescended to agree to these terms, but her traders went on to flagrantly violate them. The matter seems to have reached its climax when an unnamed priest passed through Terran on his way to the Zuma Coalition. Here again Ironsides insinuates a religious conflict. He admits that the priest did not preach on his journey but adds: 

   “Additionally, on this issue, opponents have said that it is typical of Kabrinskia to assume they can preach their religion in places it is not invited.” 

   A bizarre claim seeing as the Chief Magistrate himself was at this point an Astroist and he himself insists the conflict was not religious in nature.

   To me it seems the obvious cause of the conflict was the belligerence of Allison Kabrinski, a trait of hers reported extensively by myriad sources both faithful and secular. The lesson in this is that the rulers of theocracies must be carefully vetted for even temper, piety and respect for the church. 

   Terran kept its word not to go on the offensive, but Kabrinskia chose to invade. In response Asylon and Barca came to Terran’s defense. Initially the other theocracies stayed out of the war on the condition that Kabrinskia’s lands would not suffer direct invasion for they would consent for a theocracy to be repulsed, but not for holy lands to be threatened. As the conflict escalated and theocratic lands came under threat Iashalur and Astrum came to Kabrinskia’s defense.

   Here Bowie’s account trails off, but there is mention of Terran withdrawing from the war on the condition that Allison step down as Grandmistress. Asylon on the other hand remained at war with the theocracies for some time after ultimately losing the regions of Wallershire and Vyanar to Astrum. 

   Few realized it at the time, but this moment represented the high-water mark for Sanguis Astroism. Our greatest foes were soundly defeated and more than that cowed. Though Asylon bitterly opposed the church they could not hope to challenge us. It seemed our church was destined to spread to the four corners of Dwilight, but from then we would only see theocracies fall, not rise, our borders draw back, our membership dwindle. 

The Fall of Kabrinskia and the rise of the Farronite Republic

   On the fall of Kabrinskia I have found few records. I know that Allison came to dwell their once again and became duchess of Mech and Farrow, the realm’s only duchy. Some conflict arose and the ruler banned her. In response she swore her lands away to Astrum. Thus, in one fell swoop, by pen but not sword, a theocracy was destroyed. I am told such things are no longer possible, thanks to more careful bureaucracies but I still shudder at the thought.

   Astrum did not long retain the Farrowlands but instead permitted the former Kabrinskians to rebuild a new realm. Much to the chagrin of Theocratic hardliners, they opted for a Republic, albeit one with Sanguis Astroism as a state religion in accordance with the three principles I laid out earlier in this treaties. The Farronite Republic was nonetheless respected as an astroist realm but denied an archon seat in the elder council. In short order Swordfell also formed and was of a similar nature, but as a monarchy with Sanguis Astroism as its state religion. There are some who say the destruction of Kabrinskia caused people to fear the classical theocratic government system and opt instead for other versions.

   There were some, and Turin was in this camp, who wanted to grant these realms the same status as theocracy. “Theocratic realm” was the proposed change in charter terminology. This ultimately failed and one wonders if fostered resentment among the Farronites and the Fellish, sowing the seeds of later calamity.

Aurvandil and the Arrakis Rebellion

   As I mentioned Sanguis Astroism has long practiced a sort of practical tolerance, but unbelievers might call this relaxed intolerance. Furthermore, it is the case that we have been loath to suffer our church to be forbidden in other lands, a policy which would seem contradictory to those who have not accepted the truth of the Bloodstars but seems only just and righteous to us. 

   This stance was more than prudent in the face of realms like Thulsoma and Averoth in the theocracies back yard, but the concern over Aurvandil’s refusal to accept the stars in the far south crossed the line from vigilance to extremism. Thus, I must find fault in my relative for becoming needlessly entangled in such a distant conflict.

   Turin, departing all the way from Darfix, on at least three occasions attempted to participate directly in crusade against Aurvandil. I think perhaps he was motivated by regret and envy of the hero’s and martyrs of previous holy wars. During the struggle with Thulsoma and Averoth for example he was largely occupied with his project to rebuild the duchy of Gaston for the sake of re-founding Niselur. Instead of heathens and heretics he fought beasts and revenants. I know the martyrdom of Rowan stuck with him. He would continue to lament it even in the time I knew him. He kept a portrait of the man in every manor he ever dwelled in, and at times I would see him placing a hand upon it. I wonder if perhaps Turin’s greatest wish at that time was to die before the walls of Aurvandil.

   Instead a far worse fate would befall him. First and foremost, given the great distance from home and abundance of tropical diseases Turin’s units deserted him one after another. I can find only one account of him actually participating in a battle, and it consisted of his cavalry unit cantering helplessly before the walls of city (the name of which has faded). He may have managed to fight in other battles, but mostly his men ran off at the first chance they got, such is the perils of taking men so far from their native lands.

   On his final venture south, Leopold Arrakis, alleged son of the great Boreal Arrakis founder and first King of Niselur began a rebellion to seized Iashalur. Leopold’s coming some years prior was welcomed by Turin and up until the revolt Turin thought quite highly of him. At one-point Leopold asked to be made lord of Under Darfix so he might be protector of the city (for Turin was Marquis of Darfix in addition to King). Turin could not acquisse but reassured the youth that he and others in Iashalur were “in the autum of their lives” and that one so ambitious as him had much to hope for once they were gone. It seems Leopold became impatient, and so the rebellion began. 

   The treason was well planned and executed. Turin and his closest followers were on the other side of the continent. The sole loyalist defender was Qadan, lord of Gaston, then the realm’s capital. He was a critic of Turin but a harsher critic of Leopold. His efforts were lauded for his fortitude, bravery and loyalty. The resistance so impressed Leopold that he saw fit to pardon Qadan.

   Thus, Turin and his supporters became vagabonds. His enemies came to call him “crownless” in spite of the fact that he still had the crown of Iashalur and shield of Darfix, an heirloom from Boreal’s day. Turin served for a stint in D’hara showing an interest in the latest developments in maritime warfare, but he would soon move on to a new mission. It would seem in those days any crusade would draw him like a moth to the flame.

Orthodox Astroism and the Arcane Undoing of Aurvandil

   Ultimately Aurvandil fell not due to strength of arms but black magic, for it turned out their ruler Mendicant was a sorcerer who gained his power by holding various nobles in thrall. Not only did this give him absolute loyalty from the majority of his realm, but he even ensnared some citizens of distant realms, including Iashalur, whom he used as spies and to funnel gold to him. This sorcery, useful for a time ultimately backfired, killing Mendicant and all those he dominated.

   There is in the course of this story a strange episode. Allison increasingly at odds with the church and even the prophet himself saw fit to leave the church and found a cult known as Orthodox Astroism. Of this cult Mathurin wrote:

“Faithful,

   It is not often that the Church of Sanguis Astroism takes an official stance on another religion. For the most part they are small faiths, of no more significance to our own Church than the mumblings of the native Dwili when first we came here.

   However, given the nature of its birth, and the challenge to our own Faith explicit in its name, it was imperative that I consider the nature of the apostate Allison Kabrinski's schism. I travelled to Candiels in Aurvandil, where I was the guest of High Sovereign Mendicant Anhangar for some time, and while there I spoke to Allison to get a better understanding of the nature of her cult. Other than mocking me, which is no offence in itself, she was unable to separate 'Orthodox Astroism' from herself, convinced that it was her I had undertaken the journey to judge.

   I gave her several chances to explain the worth to the world of her cult. If she had even a single insight into the Stars that we of this Church have not, that alone would have merited its existence. However, her only defence of her sect was that it would be politically embarrassing if we were to declare a crusade against her and fail. She has no faith.

   'Orthodox Astroism' has no existence other than to be an instrument of Allison Kabrinski's profane desire for personal power, and no purpose other than to wrest influence and believers away from Sanguis Astroism.

   I have rarely declared another religion to be evil. In this case, I must make such a proclamation.

Mathurin Hossenfeffer Priest of Sanguis Astroism Founder of Sanguis Astroism “

   Shunned by the theocracies Allison had taken refuge in Aurvandil. What happened next is a matter of some debate. After Mendicant’s spell backfired, Allison returned to the church claiming her heresy was an act, a ploy to infiltrate Aurvandil and that it was she who caused Mendicant’s magic to go awry. She also claimed Mathurin was in on the plan, which he vehemently denied. 

   In response to all her efforts to return to the church he wrote:

“Elders

   The problem with Allison Kabrinski is that she will say whatever she thinks the listener wishes to hear in order to get her way. She was cast from the Faith once before, and swore penitence to be readmitted. She was shown the Open Hand but once granted membership again, her penitence faded entirely and she reshapped the entire event as the fault of others, or as part of a ruse (the convoluted ‘benefit’ of which I have long since forgotten). 

   I have no doubt she misses the validity that membership of the true Church of Sanguis Astroism gave her. I have no doubt that she would swear to abide by any penance or punishment we propose to regain entry to the Faith. And I have no doubt that once readmitted she would immediately begin trying to rebuild her base of influence within the Church with a view to challenging for leadership as she has done before.

   I commend those of you who have maintained frendships with Allison and I have no disagreement with you remaining on cordial terms with her. Hoever, given her apparent desire to return to us, I think perhaps it would be best to make my position clear.

   I oppose the return of Allison Kabrinski to the Faith.
   I oppose the admission of Allison Kabrinski to any Theocracy of the Faith.
   I counsel against the admission fo Allison Kabrinski to any realm which professes to be friendly to the Faith

Mathurin Hossenfeffer Priest of Sanguis Astroism Founder of Sanguis Astroism ”

   Mathurin was ever honest in all his affairs, so we can be certain they planned nothing together. As for Allison’s true intentions, who can say. She was granted brief refuge in the Farronite Republic by her friend Khari. This infuriated those already critical of the Farronite choice of government. In the end she was executed. There are some who say she welcomed it, and that it was in fact a sort of suicide granted her by Khari. Others even claim she was poisoned by Mendicants black magic and died. Finally it is known that many years prior Allison underwent a trepanning ritual in an effort to create a “third eye” that could better commune with the Blood Stars. Many believe this drove her mad.

The Decline of the Elder Council and the Tragedy of Terran Theocracy

   At this point it may be aptly said that the faith of the church was shaken, not their faith in the stars but their faith in the church itself. Membership had shrunk by then, and many institutions like the magistratum, a means by which to investigate heresies, conspiracies and conflicts had long fallen out of use. It is believed that at this time the prophet was ailing. He had always taken a light touch to the day to day government of the church but in the twilight of the Golden Age he was scarcely heard from.

   The dream of total Astroist Supremacy seemed to have died with Allison’s treachery. People instead spoke of tolerance. Hardliners were shunned.

   Worse still the elder council became increasingly paralyzed by its own bureaucracy. Countless proposals to revitalize the faith were met with the dreaded response “nothing can be done until the charter revisions are complete”. The charter transformed from a beloved and sacred code to something grotesque. It was as an unraveled rope that the council were tangled in even as they tried to weave it back together.

   In this state of complacency Terran, now a shadow of its former self, found itself under siege by Phantaria, a splinter realm of its former territories. Desperate, the people of Terran turned to their faith and declared their realm a theocracy, hoping the church would save them.

   The elder council, as was typical at the time, minced words, pontificated, equivocated. It seemed nothing would be done. Then the prophet broke his long silence and announced that Terran must be preserved. A crusade was called on the spot. Such is the power of a decisive divine ruler and truly such absolute power, so often feared is only a boon when exercised with wisdom, restraint and benevolence. 

   Both Turin and Alaster Kabrinski, Allison’s grandson fought for Terran, but their struggles were in vain and the realm fell. This was a crushing symbolic blow to church zealots, for it marked the first time in Astroist history a crusade had failed. This disaster would only mean further trouble for the church, for it proved the theocracies could be beaten, and surely, they would be attacked again.

The Second Betrayal of Leopold

   When Leopold ousted Turin he swore to uphold the church’s place in his lands and remain a theocracy. This I think contributed to Turin’s unwillingness to try and seize his kingdom back, for he was close friends with the Vasilif of Astrum and could likely have persuaded him to intervene. He declined to do so, I think, at least in part, because he did not want to be the cause of a war between two theocracies. Something hitherto unheard of in his day. Had he known a war would come to pass regardless one wonders whether he would have acted differently.

   Niselur (for Leopold had restored the realm’s elder name) declared itself a secular monarchy. This alone may have been tolerated, ineffectual as the elder council was at the time, yet they took matters a step further and attacked Astrum for refusing to recognize their new government. Thus, a new crusade began. Asylon and the Farronite Republic swiftly joined Niselur. Asylon’s readiness to enter this war was well understood for they had by then become a realm dedicated to the destruction of “Astromancy” in favor of their Blood Moon superstition. The Farronite Republic however is a more curious entrant. It may be perhaps that their frustration with being looked down on in the church had reached its fever pitch and they saw a chance to either seize legitimacy or destroy that which denied it to them.

   Astrum gained some early victories under the expert leadership of Strategos Kihalin Lappallanch. He achieved victories in both north and south, but injury and ailment forced him to retire. Command fell to Turin. Some blame him entirely for Astrum’s eventual defeat, but others argue that there were other factors in play. 

   The realm’s food supply dwindled inexplicably. Though Astrum had lost some rural regions under Turin’s tenure, in particular Libbido was an easily preventable loss as some militia could easily have prevented Niselurian pirates from invading and ravaging the pasturelands. Still this could not account for the deficit. It seems certain some saboteur was selling food out of the realm. 

   Throughout the war Morek remained a largely ineffectual ally both militarily and in their unwillingness to accept even a small amount of starvation to save Astrum’s critical fortified cities. Towards the end of the war Vasilif Brance Indirik literally begged Morek for food. A fragment of his letter remains. I cannot say for sure if it has been copied or paraphrased but it reads:

“…Tell them that they must send us food or we will die! …. May be the death of us all!”

   Finally, great losses were inflicted by the betrayal of Karibash. As troops rallied for a northern attack in the Shrine of Seeklander they spotted incoming Niselurians whom they assumed would be massacred against the walls of the stronghold. To their horror they witnessed Karibash ka Habb hitherto thought a stalwart if prickly member of the church opening the gates and welcoming their foes and likewise ordering his militia to attack. Few Astrumese soldiers were lucky enough to escape with their lives.

   I will not be overly apologetic for my uncle. It may be too much to say the was a bad general, but it cannot be said that he was a great or even good one, and in that war a mediocre general would not suffice. 

   The defeat of Astrum was so horrific that even Vasilif Brance succumbed to starvation and disease in his war camp at Libidizedd. In the end, perhaps out of pity at the shear grim state of the realm Niselur offered rather generous peace terms.

The Great Blighting and the Dawn of the Age of Decay

   “With the decline of the theocracies came a waning in the blessing of the blood stars all across the western continent. Dark magic, the vile byproduct of an unbalanced heart became common place. One supremely evil person, Jonsu Himoura used her witchcraft to gain control of the temple guard as Mendicant had done, and named herself prophetess of Sanguis Astroism. 

   The voices of the church cried out as one that they would not obey this false prophet, this harpy in the guise of a woman. She soon lost control of her spell and Alaster Kabrinski son of the infamous Allison Kabrinski also gained control of the temple guard. The two rivaled for some time. In the end Jonsu was cast out. Helm Altenahr and Alaster ruled the church after that as equal Justicars. Ultimately Alaster abused his power and Helm slew him in a duel, but that was after the great cataclysm.

   There can be no doubt that these acts of sorcery and impiety gave rise to the cataclysm. The timing is too perfect for it to not be so. Monsters and undead poured forth, the likes of which had not been seen since the earliest days of Dwilight. They consumed the Western realms in a matter of days. Niselur and its ally Asylon were among the first to fall, the justice of the Blood Stars was done to them at last.

   This is the fate that befell us when we took the Blood Stars for granted. Lax faith is what brought us to this ruin. I fear if our faith is not restored there will be darker times to come and yet also I hope that one day all the hearts of Dwilight will open to the glory of the Blood Stars and they be our guiding light, drawing us Westward as they did in days past.

“

– Turin Erickson, Last True King of Iashalur, Light of the Austere Star

   Thus, did Turin so succinctly describe the greatest calamity ever to befall both the church and continent of Dwilight. He leaves out that the faithful left in droves upon Jonsu’s usurpation, and the church never truly recovered after that. 

Some formed the sect known as Ecclesiastic Sanguiastroism, of which there is little to say. Malcontents raised some controversy and wanted to declare this religion an enemy cult. Turin for a time maintained an “interfaith council” with them, but this proved a pointless project. In the end ESA proved neither a threat or asset to the original church and simply faded into obscurity. Far more nobles left the church, never to return after the strife with Jonsu and Alaster. Thus began the age of the Justiciars, and a sad age it was.

   It was known that bewitching the temple acolytes could be accomplished with rather simple magiks by whomever held the highest rank in the church. Thus the Justiciars, numbering two were meant to share this power and prevent any such abuses of power. It was decreed by the holy charter that the Justiciars were to remain neutral in all church affairs, giving only measured council, and exercising their powers only in crisis. 

   The first Justiciars were Helm Altenahr and Alaster, but as has been said Alaster abused his position. It should be noted that even at this early point the Justiciars did not work as intended, for Helm would not reverse any of Alaster’s illegal demotions and excommunications. Instead Helm slew him in a duel and Sergio Vasilif of Astrum became the second Justiciar. 

   Given that the Justiciars were oathsworn by the Bloodstars to remain neutral, naturally every faction within the Church wanted the Justiciars to side with them. Whosoever had a personal enemy would insist their foe was an enemy of the church and aspiring usurper, and like a petulant child asking for more sweets demand their rival be excommunicated. Patient, but exasperated, the Justiciars would always refuse. This pattern would continue until the office was finally dissolved, which shall be discussed later.

The Decline of Morek, the Apostasy War and the Desecration of Holy Caiyun

   Through his victory over the second Kabrinski Helm Altenahr gained great renown, which for some translated to eternal trust, for who could doubt that someone who would risk their very life to defend the church had the faith’s best interest in heart? Yet, just because one wishes the best for the church does not mean one knows what is best for the church and Helm would be illustrative of this principle on many occasions. 

   In the 31st year of Dwilight, Grandmistress Eviera Lanze of Morek, stepped down from rule and seceded her duchy to form a new secular realm called Helyg Derwyddon. Moreover, she abandoned the church in favor of a Druidic faith only slightly more sophisticated than peasant paganism. In elder days this would have been cause for a crusade, but the church did not intervene, in part due to lack of resources to carry on such a conflict. Helm was among those who opposed any intervention.

   This gave rise to subsequent secessions leaving Morek ‘Empire’ as a mere husk of its former self. One such Kingdom, Arnor would remain under the rule of Helm, who assumed the title “Raven King”

   “People of Arnor! Subjects of the Raven Throne! Hear these words and know what has been done this day! Today we have created the realm of Arnor. But what is Arnor? What does it stand for? Know this, that our Kingdom of Arnor is heir to the traditions of the ancient civilisations of North Dwilight. The Raven Throne stands as the bulwark of humanity against the monsters, undead, the Powers of Chaos and the coming of the Fimbul-Winter. We strive against the powers of Darkness under our grim Northern skies. Freedom is what we reap from this way of life. We protect all faiths, and favour none over the others. Now swear your oaths!”

   In this brief coronation speech I ask? What is missing? To the faithful it is obvious. There is no mention of the Blood Stars. Indeed, for reasons still unknown Helm declined to make Arnor a theocracy. I believe that Helm had a fundamental misunderstanding of the meaning of theocracy to Sanguis Astroism. He believed in the Blood Stars to be sure, but he saw theocracy as unnecessary, never realizing the inherent contradiction between these two ideas. 

   Due to his tolerance for the Apostate Realm, and his decision to found Arnor as a secular kingdom there were those who accused Helm of actively trying to subvert the church from within. In response to these accusations, Turin privately remarked, “Helm is an obstructionist to be sure, but he is no Jonsu”. Indeed, though they butted heads on many occasions Turin for a long time held a begrudging respect for the Raven King.

   Turin was in those days Margrave of Caiyun and Duke of the duchy of the First Temple, a post he felt deeply privileged to hold. Fearing the duchy might fall into heathen hands, Turin swore allegiance to Astrum. The Apostate Realm came to covet these territories which lay so close to their heartland, and so distant from that of Astrum.

   Helm’s apathy reached its lowest depths with the outbreak of the Apostay War. With Astrum distracted by other conflicts Helyg Derwyddon unprovoked and without claim invaded the duchy of the First Temple with the intention of seizing the Holy City of Caiyun. There could be no greater affront to the faith. Every noble who called themselves an Astroist ought to have marched from every corner of Dwilight to reduce Helyg Derwyddon to ashes. Turin certainly expected such a response, or at least thought it appropriate. Instead the faithful could scarcely be roused. Records are spotty but it seems that Helm even opposed the declaration of a crusade and it remains unclear if one was even official called. Turin repeatedly uses the title in reference to the Apostate War, but other accounts contest this characterization. Turin once claimed to me that a vote had been held, and the council had enough of a majority to call a crusade, but there was some procedural error, which Helm clung to, insisting the crusade was not valid. If true this is perhaps one of the most pathetic stories, I’ve heard regarding internal church politics, especially given the gravity of the attack on our most holy city.

   In the end Caiyun fell. It is noted that at that time Turin was banned from Helyg Derwyddon on charges of sabotage. I never knew my uncle to have been an infiltrator, so this must refer to attempted religious sabotage, such as an auto de fe, which he was known to have called down on at least one other occasion.

   Thus, the apostates seized Caiyun. The church, and with it the institution of theocracy suffered another crippling blow.