Difference between revisions of "Ethiala"

From BattleMaster Wiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search
(Updated the region positions, and inserted the Magna Carte)
m (update cat)
 
(26 intermediate revisions by 8 users not shown)
Line 17: Line 17:
 
|[[Far East]]
 
|[[Far East]]
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
| '''[[Capital]]'''
+
| '''[[Capital City]]'''
|[[Topenah]]
+
|[[Topenah, Jewel of the Far East]]
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
| '''Largest City'''
 
| '''Largest City'''
Line 24: Line 24:
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
| style="white-space: nowrap;" | '''[[Government System]]''' <div style="text-align: left;">
 
| style="white-space: nowrap;" | '''[[Government System]]''' <div style="text-align: left;">
* [[Government_Position#Ruler|King]]
+
* [[Government_Position#Ruler|Archduke]]
* [[Government_Position#General|High Marshal]]
+
* [[Government_Position#General|Lord General]]
* [[Government_Position#Judge|Arch Priest]]
+
* [[Government_Position#Judge|Chancellor]]
* [[Government_Position#Banker|Royal Treasurer]]</div>
+
* [[Government_Position#Banker|Imperial Treasurer]]</div>
| style="white-space: nowrap;" | [[Monarchy]]<br>
+
| style="white-space: nowrap;" | [[Monarchy|Monarchy (Grand Duchy)]]<br>
Osric<br>
+
Keffer Leonidas<br>
Thrasymaque<br>
+
[[Baraedor_Family|Primus Baraedor]]<br>
Aethelwulf<br>
+
Indiana Threepwood<br>
Jeselek<br>
+
Bastian Ruiri Woods<br>
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
| '''[[Region]] Numbers'''
 
| '''[[Region]] Numbers'''
|6
+
|9
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
| '''Population'''
 
| '''Population'''
|55595
+
|High
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
| '''Food Production'''
 
| '''Food Production'''
|527 bushels
+
|Average
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
 +
 +
''This is a realm that has faded into the annals of history, fallen to a relentless war against [[Arcaea]].''
  
 
===Ethiala===
 
===Ethiala===
The Realm of Ethiala boasts a proud tradition of both peace and war. The only Constitutional Monarchy of the Far East, and traditionally a realm of Traders, Ethialan involvement in world politics, as a result of its geographic position on the continent, has reached its highest level yet, due to the continuous conflicts which sweep across the Far East. Completely surrounded by many realms of all sizes and histories, Ethiala holds the position as the only realm to be completely landlocked. Thus, she relies upon excellent leadership and, as a result of her loyalties and honourable dealings with the realms around her, she has formed strong alliances which have also been integral to her survival. The Ethialan Nobles, devoted to their leadership and committed to ensuring peace among the great nations of the Far East have worked tirelessly to assist in the negotiation, as well as mediation between warring realms and will continue to uphold their proud tradition of honour and loyalty above all else.
+
The Realm of Ethiala boasts a proud history rooted in the chivalric tradition. The first Constitutional Monarchy of the Far East, Ethiala is frequently involved in world politics as a result of its geographic position on the continent. Surrounded by many realms of all sizes and histories, Ethiala holds the position as one of the only realms to control four Cities. Thus, she relies upon excellent leadership and, as a result of her loyalties and honorable dealings with the realms around her, she has formed strong alliances which have also been integral to her survival.
 +
 
 +
Ethialan nobility tends to favor traditional custom and behavior, placing a high value on rank, station, and protocol. In the past, Ethiala has brokered many diplomatic arrangements between other realms, taking an active role in negotiations and mediation and an equally active stand against treachery and ignoble acts.
  
 
==The Lands and Lords of Ethiala==
 
==The Lands and Lords of Ethiala==
Line 51: Line 55:
 
===The Duchies, their Lords and their Vassal Regions===
 
===The Duchies, their Lords and their Vassal Regions===
  
'''Sir Thrasymaque - Duke of Topenah'''
 
  
Kir - Baron of Arempos
+
'''His Grace, Primus Baraedor - Duke of Topenah'''
 +
   
 +
Feo Delgado, Count of Hupar
  
Jeselek - Baron of Lantzas
+
Aetos DeCuir, Baron of Arempos
 +
 +
• Aaria Ruiri Woods, Baroness of Ahael
  
• Sir Khyber - Count of Hupar
+
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 +
'''His Grace, Indiana Threepwood - Duke of Talex'''
  
Aethulwulf - Count of Larmebsi
+
Alana Baraedor - Countess of Treror
  
'''Kiljaden - Duke of Talex'''
+
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 +
'''His Grace, Lance Le Mont - Duke of Ozrat'''
  
Lady Riamh Aice - Countess of Pesol
+
      Richard Martins, Count of Pesol
 +
         
  
• Ryft - Count of Treror
 
  
 +
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 +
'''His Grace, Alastor Barthalemus - Duke of Colasan'''
  
 +
==Brief History of Ethiala==
 +
For all of Ethiala's recent history, it has been one of the cornerstones of the Northern Federation, a strong alliance between the Feudal Republic of [[Lasanar]], Ethiala, and Sartania. It has been slow to join several larger wars, taking no part in recent Nighthelm/Soliferum conflicts and only joining the great war against the Antozan Commonwealth after several months; it likewise entered the war against Arcaea only after the rebellion of Lasop. Prior to both of those wars, Ethiala assisted Lasanar in re-conquering the Duchy of Colasan on two separate occasions when their Dukes seceded from the Republic.
  
==Brief History of Ethiala==
+
Ethiala was ruled for decades by King Osric Crimsonblade, who was Ethiala's first King and for many years its only King, save for a brief reign by his friend, the Duke and High Marshal Thrasymaque. More recently, King Osric finally retired, and was succeeded briefly by Duchess Kitiara of Talex, who unexpectedly retired shortly thereafter and was herself succeeded by then-High Marshal and Duke of Lasop Septimus Scarlett, cousin to the more well-known Galiard Scarlett of Lasanarian and Cathayan fame.
 +
 
 +
Ethiala was then re-organized into a Grand Duchy, with the ruler (Archduke) retaining the powers of a Monarch but not the title.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Ethiala/History|In-Depth History]]'''
 +
 
 +
==Out of Character Rules==
 +
Ethiala is considered a '''serious roleplaying realm''' and so requires that all players choose appropriate names for their characters. At an absolute minimum, characters are required to be aware of the [[Serious_Medieval_Atmosphere|Serious Medieval Atmosphere]] guidelines, and are also recommended to familiarize themselves with the [[RP_Primer|RP Primer]].
 +
 
 +
There are no 'RP Police' and only the most blatant out-of-character behavior (such as an inappropriate name) will result in an OOC ban. For everything else, just be aware that advancement is usually rewarded to characters who contribute to the medieval feel of Ethiala.
 +
 
 +
==Constitutional Monarchy of Ethiala==
 +
 
 +
===The Crown of Ethiala===
 +
 
 +
The Archduke of Ethiala holds considerable legislative, judicial, and executive power -- traditionally more than that wielded by the rulers of Lasanar or Sartania, particularly as the Archduke is not answerable to an electorate every month. The Crown has the final word over all matters of state and law when not constrained by the Ethialan Senate.
 +
 
 +
===The Ethialan Senate===
 +
 
 +
The Ethialan Senate is comprised of all of Ethiala's landed nobility, the Crown, all Crown offices, and a single, at-large member from the ranks of the un-landed nobility who must be elected every month.
 +
 
 +
The Senate has two primary purposes: it exists as an advisory body to the Crown, reviewing information deemed to sensitive for the realm at large as well as most major decisions facing the realm, and also as a check on the power of the Crown.
 +
 
 +
The authority of the Crown may be overruled by a 2/3 vote of the Senate on any issue. When the Crown is supported by either all of the Dukes of Ethiala or all of the Crown offices (Treasurer, Lord General), the Senate may not overrule the Crown; in such an instance only a public referendum in which 4/5 of Ethiala's nobility oppose the Crown may do so.
 +
 
 +
The Ethialan Senate is the only legislative body in Ethiala other than the Crown.
 +
 
 +
Members of the Senate who routinely fail to vote or participate may be brought up for dismissal from the Senate by the Crown, though this does not require the loss of their title. Such cases require a simple majority vote with the support of the Crown.
 +
 
 +
=== Ethialan Chivalry and Conduct ===
 +
 
 +
Sometimes referred to as 'the flower of Far Eastern chivalry,' Ethialan standards for conduct are among the highest in the land -- a source of praise as well as criticism. Great deference is given to nobles of higher station in address, though all nobles are free to exercise their judgment and give an opinion in public, provided that they do so with courtesy and respect. Purposefully insulting or inflammatory remarks may only be made when backed by a challenge to a duel (to surrender) -- and those are only legal in times of peace.
 +
 
 +
Nobles acting openly vulgar or otherwise ignoble may be referred to the Chancellor for disciplinary action.
 +
 
 +
These standards of conduct are enforced at all times, particularly when in the presence of foreign nobles. Exchanging insults or demeaning foreign nobles in public is expressly prohibited.
 +
 
 +
===Feudal Hierarchy and Enforcement===
 +
 
 +
Day-to-day affairs in Ethiala are governed by feudal compact -- in other words, region lords are responsible for the conduct and performance of their knights, and Dukes are responsible for the conduct and performance of their landed vassals. Only serious, criminal offenses such as treason are referred to the Chancellor for disciplinary actions; in other instances, liege lords are responsible for administering justice and discipline to their vassals, and may request that the Chancellor levy a fine when it is appropriate. Liege lords may not require that their vassals be banned, but they may terminate a knight's service for any reason.
 +
 
 +
If a liege lord fails to enforce the law among his or her vassals, then the lord shall be held directly responsible by the Chancellor and the Crown for their behavior, and may (at the discretion of the Crown) share in some or all of their punishment.
  
More to Come!
+
===The Lord General of Ethiala===
  
===Current History of Ethiala===
+
When a formal declaration of war has been made by the Crown, the Lord General wields the authority of the Crown in all military affairs. The Lord General is appointed by the Crown and serves at the pleasure of the Crown. All nobles of Ethiala are required to obey the Lord General's commands in any military matter in war time.
[[Ethiala/History|Archive]]
 
  
===Constitutional Monarchy of Ethiala===
+
When Ethiala is not formally at war, the Lord General is charged with the supervision of militia allocation and managing the realm's recruitment centers, though final authority on both of those things rests with the pertinent Duke. Dukes have final authority over their vassals in absence of a formal declaration of war by the Crown.
  
====Noble's Contract====
+
The Crown may also declare a state of emergency, under which it may directly command any nobles of Ethiala for any reason at any time -- however, such a declaration may be overridden by the Senate and is meant to be used sparingly.  
1. The Far East island is a pure role-playing island, so all nobles are expected to role-play on a regular basis. If you do not, you will first be warned by the King. If your roleplay does not increase to a satisfactory level, you will be banned from the realm.
 
2. Empty accusations, pointless attacks and other undue messages with no other apparent purpose than to cause unrest are dealt with severity in Ethiala. As a land of harmony, we tolerate no troublemakers.
 
  
====Political Contract====
+
The Crown in agreement with the Senate may confer the title of "Warmaster Of Ethiala" upon a Lord General who distinguishes their self both on and off the battlefield far beyond the duty incumbent of the rank of Lord General. The title of Warmaster is meant to be an uncommon award because of the very high standards and exceptional skill which it represents.  The title of Warmaster remains with the recipient even after leaving the post of Lord General and does not transfer to the incoming Lord General. The title is officially reset to Lord General reflecting the normal rank and title of Ethiala's General.
1. Ethiala is a constitutional Monarchy. If two thirds of all troop leaders explicitly express their disagreement about any governmental action, the ruling class must comply.
 
2. The ruling class and the landed aristocracy are expected to be the best and most active troop leaders of Ethiala. They may not take their positions for granted. It is the right of any noble to contest the authority of an ineffective government member. This right is to be used with caution because, if the opposing noble finds no support in his comrades, he may be punished by the Arch Priest.
 
3. Electoral campaigns may “invite” nobles to vote for specific nobles but no harder terms may be used to incite a vote caster. Ethiala is a land of liberty; vote with you own conscience.
 
  
====Military Contract====
+
The first recipient of the title "Warmaster of Ethiala" was Primus Baraedor. As Duke Of Topenah he kept the region under control despite a major famine. As a Senator he helped spur Ethiala's progress and was a valuable adviser to the Crown. As Lord General he saved Ethiala from the brink of defeat, lead an impressive counteroffensive, rallied the armies of Ethiala during the crisis that ensued the death of Septimus Scarlett.  He then held off two invading armies attacking on two fronts bent on destroying Ethiala, forcing both armies to retreat back into their realms before marching after the most powerful of the two, Lasanar.  Primus crippled what remained of Lasanar by winning a shorthanded victory against the fortress city of Ozrat in which Ethiala was greatly outnumbered. Through his tireless actions the Crown under Keffer Leonidas felt compelled to create such a title to honor such deeds and service to the realm.
1. The High Marshal
 
The General of Ethiala is the only one with the right to give any military order at any time. He can void the power of any Marshal by not recognizing him as a second-in-command. The King has the unique right to appointed him. If the King and the Arch Priest agree that his overall level of activity has dropped too low, a High Marshal may be ordered to step down.
 
2. The Marshals
 
At any turn when the High Marshal has given no orders nor explicitly mentioned his last ones are still valid for the actual turn, the Marshals can give orders three hours after the turn change. The first Marshal to provide orders has authority for that turn; only the High Marshal can reverse his orders but it should be avoided as it causes contradictory actions. The right to choose the Marshals belongs to the Dukes alone.
 
  
=====Magna Carte====
+
===The Chancellor of Ethiala===
  
The King's word is law, but if 2/3 of the nobles of Ethiala choose to overrule him, he must abide by thier ruling. This applies to many things, including the removal of him from his position.
+
The Chancellor of Ethiala is the highest judicial office in the land. The Chancellor is elected each quarter by the realm at large.  
  
If the Senate makes a descision, it may also be overturned by a vote of 2/3 of the nobles. The senate may also cast votes as part of the nobility of Ethiala however.
+
The Chancellor oversees all High Justice in the realm and is responsible for enforcing the Feudal Compact and for internal security. Judicial decisions are subject to oversight by the Crown, but may only be overruled if the Crown is backed by a simple majority of the Senate.
  
The King's descision may also be overturned by the senate, in the case of a simple majority vote. However, in this case, it is the kings perogative to vote on his own behalf as a general member of the senate. If there is a stalemate, the king's descision stands.
+
===The Imperial Treasurer of Ethiala===
  
A High Council's decision, may only be overturned with a unanimous vote by all other members of the senate, or by a 4/5 vote by the realm.
+
The Imperial Treasurer is responsible for overseeing the financial management of the realm and the grain supplies. The Treasurer may request tax records from any region lord and recommend appropriate taxation procedures, though they may only be enforced if the region in question is found not to be fulfilling its feudal oath to the Crown.
  
In the case of those who are aligned to a Lord, and unable to vote, (OOC: do not log on in the time set to vote) their lord may vote for them. If a Lord is unable to vote, his Duke casts his vote for him, as well as any who serve that Lord and are unable to vote.
+
The Treasurer acts as the Crown's agent in mediating financial or food supply disputes between Ethiala's lords.
  
If an Unaligned Noble is unable to vote, the king may cast his vote for whichever side he chooses.
+
===Religion in Ethiala===
  
The High Council is sent the individual votes in private, and they are tallied by all four members individually. If they have discrepancies, then the members who are in question will be contacted privately. In the case that the High Council's descision is in question, the votes will be tallied as an entire realm. In the case of a vote that is tallied as a realm, the votes are obviously not kept secret as with other forms of voting.
+
Ethiala has no formal state religion.
  
==Ethiala and Diplomacy==
+
Each region lord may deny permission to any one religion seeking to preach in their lands. Region lords may support any religion that has not been expressly outlawed by the Crown.
As previously mentioned, due to the geographic position Ethiala finds herself, she has had her fair share of political intrigue and diplomatic fallout and success. Over the many months and years since Ethiala was formed under Cerbre and then expanded with the acquisition of Topenah, Ethiala has had many alliances form, and just as many dissolve. However throughout her history, Ethiala's strongest and most stable relationship has been with the large realm of Lasanar, with which she shares her entire western border.  
 
  
Up until recently, Ethiala had also shared a strong bond with Taith Aenil to her East, however with the shifting sands of time and conflict, circumstances have led to a fallout between the once great friends. The causes are often disputed by Ethialan and Aenilian alike, however the it seems that the driving reason which has plagued recent diplomatic talks and what is often blamed for the collapse was the Aenilian invasion of Talex, the founding city of Ethiala. Taith Aenilian leadership claims that this invasion was more a liberation of the people, who, under Ethialan mis-management had begun to starve during the harsh winter. Ethiala found this reason to be woefully inadequate of justifying an invasion and attempted Take-Over of their founding city and have asked for a public apology, one which Taith Aenil will not give.  
+
At their discretion, Dukes may outlaw any religion within their borders of their Duchy, but only with the support of the Crown.
  
Either way, the tensions came to a head when Ethiala declared war upon the Aenilians in response to their unwarranted attack on Lasanarian territories, first in Coloscan, their founding city and then in Akanos, a recently acquired territory under Lasanarian control. However, after a few short battles which were ultimately inconclusive and pointless, the brief war was concluded with a signing of neutrality. A stance with Ethiala and Taith Aenil hold to this day. Also during this turbulent period at the end of Daran of Lasanar's rule, Ethiala found a new alliance in Sartania, as well as newfound peace with all other realms of the Far East, including Arcachon to the north, despite a short conflict which had occurred a few weeks before. Currently, Ethiala has begun a process whereby Nobles are sent to the various realms of the Far East to build relations and act as spokepersons for the realm. Main figures include Evelyn, to Svunnetland and Arcaea and Luyten, to Sartania and Arcachon.
+
===Heroes Of Ethiala===
  
Currently, a new-found tension has been sparked in the northern realms, this has been attributed to the all-out war which is occurring down in the southern realms of the Far East. Ethiala's proximity to both north and south has put her in a questionable and undesirable position. However through perseverence and deep thought, as well as steadfast loyalty to the Ethialan cause and honourable conduct of the Nobles. Ethiala will surely grow stronger and continue to assist her neighbours in finding a peaceful solution to the oncoming tide of conflict.
+
'''Septimus Scarlett'''  Archduke Of Ethiala who died defending Ethiala. His skill as a warrior and diplomat made Ethiala's victory and survival possible.
  
==Ethiala and the Military==
+
'''Primus Baraedor'''  Ethiala's first Warmaster. His actions as Lord General during one of the worst wars in Ethiala's history ensured Ethiala would not perish.
Whilst the leadership of Ethiala, under the guidance and influence of her Nobles, always strive to find a diplomatic avenue through which to resolve conflict, the defense of the realm is of paramount importance. Thus the Ethialan Military, whilst small, is one of the finest and well trained in the Far East. Under the command of Lancelot, the High Marshal of Ethiala and his subordinates, Luyten and Aethelwulf, Marshals of the Army of Topenah and Talex respectively, the Nobles of Ethiala maintain a professional army. This army is at constant alert and ready to move immediately to any region which requires defence from invasion or incursion.
 
  
==Ethiala and Finance==
+
'''Malakis'''  An Ethialan infiltrator who was executed by Lasanar after being caught making a mess of the enemy realm and fustrating the enemies war effort.
Under the guidance of Kir, the Royal Treasurer of Ethiala, the economy of Ethiala has grown far stronger than ever before. Food, while not plentiful, is in sufficient supply and commoner and Noble alike are able to live in comfort. The region of Treror has begun the creation of a harvest of the finest smoking filler Ethiala has ever produced. In addition, to combat the tense diplomatic situation, several protocols, including the promotion of Bureaucrats to perform additional region maintenance so that the tax system may be altered, the creation of a Royal Bank and Treasury in the Capital to ensure a large quantity of gold be stored for desperate situations and trading missions to the furthest realms of the Far East to collect larger amounts of food for stores in Talex and Topenah have been instituted to further strengthen the Ethialan economy and financial situation. With the Nobles more devoted to the the maintenance and protection of the economy than ever before, Ethiala's financial situation will only continue to improve as the realm strives forward in leaps and bounds towards the future.
 
  
==Ethiala and Justice==
+
'''Thrasymaque'''  A legendary General and Duke of Ethiala. He was said to be an integral part of Ethiala's success and survival in its early days.
Ethiala's Justice system has undergone a slight management change in the last few weeks due to a shift in the realms overall leadership. Recently, King Thrasymaque, due to increasing lapse in activity stepped down in order for his mentor and former King of Ethiala, Osric ascend the throne once more. Unfortunately, King Osric had been the Arch-Priest of Ethiala and, with his election to the Throne, a new Arch-Priest had to be found. There were many candidates, however 3 stood out as the most eager for the roles and began their campaigns in earnest and passion. These main competitors were Aethelwulf, the Count of Treror and Marshal of Talex, Luyten, the Baron of Arempos and Marshal of Topenah and Jeselek, a member of the Ethialan Senate. All competitors believed in a fair competition and did not resort to beration of their other candidates, this led to a very positive and cheerful election campaign for all. The votes were cast and Lord Aethelwilf was elected the new Arch-Priest of Ethiala. Aethelwulf, universally respected and loved, stepped into his office with ease and has not looked back, since that time he has governed with zeal and honour and the Justice System has only grown stronger under his management.
 
  
 +
'''Osric Crimsonblade'''  King of Ethiala who was a master diplomat.  He strengthened Ethiala through shrewd actions and averted many major wars with his calm words.  His presence in the politics of the island kept the peace for an unprecedented long time.  He was the longest reigning ruler of Ethiala to date.
  
 
[[Category: Far East]]
 
[[Category: Far East]]
[[Category: Realms]]
+
[[Category: Lost Realms]]

Latest revision as of 18:31, 7 February 2009

This is a realm that has faded into the annals of history, fallen to a relentless war against Arcaea.

Ethiala

The Realm of Ethiala boasts a proud history rooted in the chivalric tradition. The first Constitutional Monarchy of the Far East, Ethiala is frequently involved in world politics as a result of its geographic position on the continent. Surrounded by many realms of all sizes and histories, Ethiala holds the position as one of the only realms to control four Cities. Thus, she relies upon excellent leadership and, as a result of her loyalties and honorable dealings with the realms around her, she has formed strong alliances which have also been integral to her survival.

Ethialan nobility tends to favor traditional custom and behavior, placing a high value on rank, station, and protocol. In the past, Ethiala has brokered many diplomatic arrangements between other realms, taking an active role in negotiations and mediation and an equally active stand against treachery and ignoble acts.

The Lands and Lords of Ethiala

The Duchies, their Lords and their Vassal Regions

His Grace, Primus Baraedor - Duke of Topenah

• Feo Delgado, Count of Hupar

• Aetos DeCuir, Baron of Arempos

• Aaria Ruiri Woods, Baroness of Ahael


His Grace, Indiana Threepwood - Duke of Talex

• Alana Baraedor - Countess of Treror


His Grace, Lance Le Mont - Duke of Ozrat

• Richard Martins, Count of Pesol



His Grace, Alastor Barthalemus - Duke of Colasan

Brief History of Ethiala

For all of Ethiala's recent history, it has been one of the cornerstones of the Northern Federation, a strong alliance between the Feudal Republic of Lasanar, Ethiala, and Sartania. It has been slow to join several larger wars, taking no part in recent Nighthelm/Soliferum conflicts and only joining the great war against the Antozan Commonwealth after several months; it likewise entered the war against Arcaea only after the rebellion of Lasop. Prior to both of those wars, Ethiala assisted Lasanar in re-conquering the Duchy of Colasan on two separate occasions when their Dukes seceded from the Republic.

Ethiala was ruled for decades by King Osric Crimsonblade, who was Ethiala's first King and for many years its only King, save for a brief reign by his friend, the Duke and High Marshal Thrasymaque. More recently, King Osric finally retired, and was succeeded briefly by Duchess Kitiara of Talex, who unexpectedly retired shortly thereafter and was herself succeeded by then-High Marshal and Duke of Lasop Septimus Scarlett, cousin to the more well-known Galiard Scarlett of Lasanarian and Cathayan fame.

Ethiala was then re-organized into a Grand Duchy, with the ruler (Archduke) retaining the powers of a Monarch but not the title.

Out of Character Rules

Ethiala is considered a serious roleplaying realm and so requires that all players choose appropriate names for their characters. At an absolute minimum, characters are required to be aware of the Serious Medieval Atmosphere guidelines, and are also recommended to familiarize themselves with the RP Primer.

There are no 'RP Police' and only the most blatant out-of-character behavior (such as an inappropriate name) will result in an OOC ban. For everything else, just be aware that advancement is usually rewarded to characters who contribute to the medieval feel of Ethiala.

Constitutional Monarchy of Ethiala

The Crown of Ethiala

The Archduke of Ethiala holds considerable legislative, judicial, and executive power -- traditionally more than that wielded by the rulers of Lasanar or Sartania, particularly as the Archduke is not answerable to an electorate every month. The Crown has the final word over all matters of state and law when not constrained by the Ethialan Senate.

The Ethialan Senate

The Ethialan Senate is comprised of all of Ethiala's landed nobility, the Crown, all Crown offices, and a single, at-large member from the ranks of the un-landed nobility who must be elected every month.

The Senate has two primary purposes: it exists as an advisory body to the Crown, reviewing information deemed to sensitive for the realm at large as well as most major decisions facing the realm, and also as a check on the power of the Crown.

The authority of the Crown may be overruled by a 2/3 vote of the Senate on any issue. When the Crown is supported by either all of the Dukes of Ethiala or all of the Crown offices (Treasurer, Lord General), the Senate may not overrule the Crown; in such an instance only a public referendum in which 4/5 of Ethiala's nobility oppose the Crown may do so.

The Ethialan Senate is the only legislative body in Ethiala other than the Crown.

Members of the Senate who routinely fail to vote or participate may be brought up for dismissal from the Senate by the Crown, though this does not require the loss of their title. Such cases require a simple majority vote with the support of the Crown.

Ethialan Chivalry and Conduct

Sometimes referred to as 'the flower of Far Eastern chivalry,' Ethialan standards for conduct are among the highest in the land -- a source of praise as well as criticism. Great deference is given to nobles of higher station in address, though all nobles are free to exercise their judgment and give an opinion in public, provided that they do so with courtesy and respect. Purposefully insulting or inflammatory remarks may only be made when backed by a challenge to a duel (to surrender) -- and those are only legal in times of peace.

Nobles acting openly vulgar or otherwise ignoble may be referred to the Chancellor for disciplinary action.

These standards of conduct are enforced at all times, particularly when in the presence of foreign nobles. Exchanging insults or demeaning foreign nobles in public is expressly prohibited.

Feudal Hierarchy and Enforcement

Day-to-day affairs in Ethiala are governed by feudal compact -- in other words, region lords are responsible for the conduct and performance of their knights, and Dukes are responsible for the conduct and performance of their landed vassals. Only serious, criminal offenses such as treason are referred to the Chancellor for disciplinary actions; in other instances, liege lords are responsible for administering justice and discipline to their vassals, and may request that the Chancellor levy a fine when it is appropriate. Liege lords may not require that their vassals be banned, but they may terminate a knight's service for any reason.

If a liege lord fails to enforce the law among his or her vassals, then the lord shall be held directly responsible by the Chancellor and the Crown for their behavior, and may (at the discretion of the Crown) share in some or all of their punishment.

The Lord General of Ethiala

When a formal declaration of war has been made by the Crown, the Lord General wields the authority of the Crown in all military affairs. The Lord General is appointed by the Crown and serves at the pleasure of the Crown. All nobles of Ethiala are required to obey the Lord General's commands in any military matter in war time.

When Ethiala is not formally at war, the Lord General is charged with the supervision of militia allocation and managing the realm's recruitment centers, though final authority on both of those things rests with the pertinent Duke. Dukes have final authority over their vassals in absence of a formal declaration of war by the Crown.

The Crown may also declare a state of emergency, under which it may directly command any nobles of Ethiala for any reason at any time -- however, such a declaration may be overridden by the Senate and is meant to be used sparingly.

The Crown in agreement with the Senate may confer the title of "Warmaster Of Ethiala" upon a Lord General who distinguishes their self both on and off the battlefield far beyond the duty incumbent of the rank of Lord General. The title of Warmaster is meant to be an uncommon award because of the very high standards and exceptional skill which it represents. The title of Warmaster remains with the recipient even after leaving the post of Lord General and does not transfer to the incoming Lord General. The title is officially reset to Lord General reflecting the normal rank and title of Ethiala's General.

The first recipient of the title "Warmaster of Ethiala" was Primus Baraedor. As Duke Of Topenah he kept the region under control despite a major famine. As a Senator he helped spur Ethiala's progress and was a valuable adviser to the Crown. As Lord General he saved Ethiala from the brink of defeat, lead an impressive counteroffensive, rallied the armies of Ethiala during the crisis that ensued the death of Septimus Scarlett. He then held off two invading armies attacking on two fronts bent on destroying Ethiala, forcing both armies to retreat back into their realms before marching after the most powerful of the two, Lasanar. Primus crippled what remained of Lasanar by winning a shorthanded victory against the fortress city of Ozrat in which Ethiala was greatly outnumbered. Through his tireless actions the Crown under Keffer Leonidas felt compelled to create such a title to honor such deeds and service to the realm.

The Chancellor of Ethiala

The Chancellor of Ethiala is the highest judicial office in the land. The Chancellor is elected each quarter by the realm at large.

The Chancellor oversees all High Justice in the realm and is responsible for enforcing the Feudal Compact and for internal security. Judicial decisions are subject to oversight by the Crown, but may only be overruled if the Crown is backed by a simple majority of the Senate.

The Imperial Treasurer of Ethiala

The Imperial Treasurer is responsible for overseeing the financial management of the realm and the grain supplies. The Treasurer may request tax records from any region lord and recommend appropriate taxation procedures, though they may only be enforced if the region in question is found not to be fulfilling its feudal oath to the Crown.

The Treasurer acts as the Crown's agent in mediating financial or food supply disputes between Ethiala's lords.

Religion in Ethiala

Ethiala has no formal state religion.

Each region lord may deny permission to any one religion seeking to preach in their lands. Region lords may support any religion that has not been expressly outlawed by the Crown.

At their discretion, Dukes may outlaw any religion within their borders of their Duchy, but only with the support of the Crown.

Heroes Of Ethiala

Septimus Scarlett Archduke Of Ethiala who died defending Ethiala. His skill as a warrior and diplomat made Ethiala's victory and survival possible.

Primus Baraedor Ethiala's first Warmaster. His actions as Lord General during one of the worst wars in Ethiala's history ensured Ethiala would not perish.

Malakis An Ethialan infiltrator who was executed by Lasanar after being caught making a mess of the enemy realm and fustrating the enemies war effort.

Thrasymaque A legendary General and Duke of Ethiala. He was said to be an integral part of Ethiala's success and survival in its early days.

Osric Crimsonblade King of Ethiala who was a master diplomat. He strengthened Ethiala through shrewd actions and averted many major wars with his calm words. His presence in the politics of the island kept the peace for an unprecedented long time. He was the longest reigning ruler of Ethiala to date.

Ethiala
Ethiala.jpg Ethiala.jpg
(Flag) ([[1]])
Location of Ethiala
Continent / Island Far East
Capital City Topenah, Jewel of the Far East
Largest City Topenah
Government System Monarchy (Grand Duchy)

Keffer Leonidas
Primus Baraedor
Indiana Threepwood
Bastian Ruiri Woods

Region Numbers 9
Population High
Food Production Average