Senera

    Senera is a large island kingdom to the northwest of the Beteran Continent. Culturally, it is closely integrated into the rest of the continent, due to its joint history, and its involvement with a number of treaties and pacts with mainland states.

    It stands as Arbiter of the Seas, officially for the Sarmatian Sea, but de facto for the entire western leg of the Seneran-Apgarian-Posaran Trade Route, as well as for the vast and largely uncharted Great Gerim Sea to the west of Senera and the continent.

    History 🔗

    Pre-Kalassarian Era 🔗

    Early Hick Period (Before 110 AI) 🔗

    Archaeological evidence suggests the indigenous Hick peoples developed sophisticated maritime and forestry traditions long before Kalassarian contact. Ancient stone arrangements and harbor structures indicate advanced understanding of tides, astronomy, and navigation. The Keelswood preserves evidence of their sophisticated forestry management techniques.

    Ruins and artifacts from this period hint at conflicts with an unknown maritime power, possibly explaining the Hicks' development of sophisticated coastal defenses and navigation techniques. By the Late Hick period, their society had divided between coastal iron-working communities and inland traditional settlements.

    The Brams River Settlements 🔗

    The Brams River held particular significance in Hick culture. Its name derives from the ancient Hick phrase "Bram-aes" ("where-sea-comes"), reflecting its importance as both a trade route and sacred waterway. Major settlements developed along its course, particularly at strategic confluences and tidal observation points.

    Maritime Heritage 🔗

    Early Seneran seafaring demonstrated remarkable sophistication in tide-reading and astronomical navigation. The Gulf of Inespell was particularly important to Hick maritime activities, though many of their practices were later suppressed or adapted during the Kalassarian period.

    Kalassarian Period (110-466 AI) 🔗

    During the Western Kalassarian Empire's height, Senera served as a crucial naval base in the empire's western maritime frontier. As an island prefecture, it maintained both magically-powered transportation networks (enabled by Ritma) and conventional maritime routes.

    The decline of Ritma from the 3rd century (~200s) onward reshaped this relationship. While other imperial regions struggled with the loss of magically-enhanced logistics and communication, Senera's established maritime infrastructure allowed it to maintain relatively stable governance.

    When Kalassus fell in 466, Senera was uniquely positioned to transition smoothly into independence, only formally declaring itself a kingdom after the fall of the Potol region to the Tandoor.

    Rise of the Maidenfeld Dynasty (Late 460s) 🔗

    The House of Maidenfeld emerged from the ranks of Kalassarian naval administrators who had governed Senera's maritime prefecture. Unlike the violent transitions in many post-Kalassarian territories, their ascension represented a gradual shift from imperial bureaucracy to sovereign authority.

    Administrative Continuity 🔗

    The Maidenfelds maintained much of the existing Kalassarian administrative structure, particularly:

    • The naval command hierarchy
    • Port administration systems
    • Tax collection mechanisms
    • Agricultural management
    • Maritime trade regulations

    Their legitimacy stemmed from their ability to preserve these institutions while other regions collapsed into chaos. The nobility largely emerged from former Kalassarian officials who had maintained control over key infrastructure and trade routes during the transition.

    Maritime Aristocracy 🔗

    Seneran aristocracy developed distinct characteristics from mainland nobles:

    • Titles often tied to naval responsibilities
    • Hereditary port administration rights
    • Maritime trade privileges
    • Coastal defense obligations
    • Ship-building responsibilities

    Their close relationship with Sanery, which maintained similar administrative continuity, allowed both regions to preserve much of their shared Kalassarian heritage while developing distinct maritime traditions.

    The Dragonheart Transition 🔗

    The House of Dragonheart's rise to power came through a combination of naval prestige and marriage alliances with powerful merchant families. Unlike the bureaucratic Maidenfelds, they represented a more militant faction of the maritime aristocracy, advocating for aggressive expansion of Seneran influence.

    Maritime Expansion and Continental Ambitions 🔗

    The fragmentation of the Hapgarian region created new political dynamics. While Baraon descended into rebellion and famine in the 440s, Senera's maritime connections initially helped it avoid the worst of the crisis. The Maidenfelds capitalized on this stability to establish their spice trade networks.

    The rise of the House of Dragonheart marked a shift toward more aggressive continental ambitions. This culminated in failed military campaigns during the 900s, where two successive Seneran kings attempted to expand territories southward and eastward. These campaigns proved costly, leading to widespread disillusionment among the nobility who had financed them.

    Modern Era (1225-Present) 🔗

    The Fall of Bastion in 1225 marked the gradual return of Ritma to the world. When the Poasan-Apgarian Conflict erupted as the first major conflict of this new magical era, Senera saw an opportunity to pursue its long-dormant territorial ambitions.

    Through the Treaty of Turain, Senera secured significant control over maritime trade routes, establishing itself as a dominant naval power in the region.

    Geography 🔗

    Senera's landscape is defined by several major geographical features that create distinct natural regions:

    Mountain Ranges 🔗

    The Ranterg Range 🔗

    (from Hick "thrantorgral" - "thousand peaks")

    • Central spine running north-south
    • Source of the Brams River
    • Divides eastern and western watersheds
    • Highest peak: Mount Thraltr (4,200 ft)

    The Maltreks 🔗

    (from Hick "mal-threk" - "pool-heights")

    • Northwestern highlands
    • Numerous sacred pools and springs
    • Ancient Hick astronomical sites
    • Peak: Malter Point (3,100 ft)

    The Kethren Hills 🔗

    (from Hick "keth-thren" - "sea-watch")

    • Eastern coastal range
    • Lower elevation (1,000-2,000 ft)
    • Strategic viewpoints over Gulf of Inespell
    • Ancient signal stations

    Major Rivers 🔗

    Eastern Watershed 🔗

    • Brams River system (primary)
    • Thrannal River (from "thran-nal" - "sacred-flow")
    • Kethreks (from "keth-reks" - "sea-reach")

    Western Watershed 🔗

    • Malter River (from "mal-ter" - "pool-flow")

      • Source: Maltrek highlands
      • Flows southwestward through Western Lowlands
      • Primary agricultural water source

    • Rannek System (from "ran-nek" - "stone-water")

      • Network of smaller rivers and streams
      • Originates from limestone springs in western foothills
      • Creates branching delta system in coastal plains
      • Natural irrigation channels through farming regions
      • Known for:
        • Year-round stable flow from aquifers
        • Clear waters (filtered through limestone)
        • Fish spawning grounds
        • Traditional water management systems

    Natural Regions 🔗

    Eastern Senera 🔗

    • Gulf coast and Brams River valley
    • Primary maritime zone
    • ~25,000 square miles
    • Extends ~150 miles inland from Gulf of Inespell
    • Boundaries:
      • East: Gulf of Inespell coastline
      • West: Eastern slopes of Ranterg Range
      • North: Northern coastal plains
      • South: Southern coastal plains

    Central Highlands (Ranterg Range) 🔗

    • Ancient sacred sites
    • Traditional forestlands
    • Watershed divide
    • ~30,000 square miles
    • Width: 60-80 miles
    • Length: ~400 miles N-S
    • Boundaries:
      • East: Ridge line overlooking Eastern Senera
      • West: Western foothills descending to Malter Valley
      • North: Merges with Maltrek highlands
      • South: Descends to southern coastal plains

    Western Lowlands 🔗

    • Total area: ~45,000 square miles

    Geographic Distribution: 🔗

    • Maltrek highlands (~8,000 sq mi)

      • Northwestern region
      • Elevation: 2,000-3,100 ft
      • Roughly 80 x 100 miles
      • Boundaries:
        • East: Merges with northern Ranterg Range
        • West: Descends to coastal cliffs
        • North: Northern peninsula coast
        • South: Descends to western foothills

    • Western foothills (~12,000 sq mi)

      • Extending 200 miles south from Maltrek
      • Width: 40-60 miles
      • Elevation: 500-1,000 ft
      • Boundaries:
        • East: Malter River valley
        • West: Descends to coastal plains
        • North: Maltrek highlands
        • South: Merges with southern coastal plains

    • Malter River valley (~15,000 sq mi)

      • Length: ~250 miles (N-S)
      • Width: 50-70 miles (E-W)
      • Elevation: 100-500 ft
      • Primary agricultural zone

    • Coastal plains (~10,000 sq mi)

      • Rannek delta region
      • Width: 30-50 miles inland
      • Length: ~200 miles along coast

    Geological Features 🔗

    • Sedimentary basin formed from ancient river deposits
    • Rich alluvial soils from Malter River flooding cycles
    • Gentle rolling hills (100-300 ft elevation)
    • Limestone bedrock providing natural drainage
    • Protected from harsh winds by Ranterg Range to the east

    Hydrological System 🔗

    • Malter River watershed

      • Primary source: Spring snowmelt from Maltrek highlands
      • Secondary source: Autumn rains from western maritime winds
      • Regular flooding cycles enrich soil annually
      • Network of natural and artificial channels for irrigation

    • Groundwater Resources

      • Extensive limestone aquifers
      • Natural springs along hillsides
      • High water table in valley bottoms
      • Traditional well systems in farming communities

    • Seasonal Patterns

      • Spring: Snowmelt floods and soil preparation
      • Summer: Maritime precipitation and morning fog
      • Autumn: Reliable rainfall from western winds
      • Winter: Light snow and ground moisture retention

    Agricultural Impact 🔗

    • Three growing seasons possible due to:
      • Reliable water supply
      • Protected climate
      • Rich alluvial soils
      • Moderate temperatures year-round
    • Traditional terrace farming on hillsides
    • Valley bottom grain production
    • Coastal grazing lands

    Northern Peninsula 🔗

    • Maltrek highlands
    • Sacred pools
    • Ancient observatories
    • Protected harbors

    Maltrek Region (Northwest) 🔗

    • Sacred pools and springs
    • Ancient observatories
    • Protected harbors in rocky coves
    • More sheltered from harsh winds
    • Limited but viable agriculture in protected valleys
    • Historical importance:
      • Religious sites
      • Astronomical markers
      • Source of Malter River

    Eastern Peninsula 🔗

    • Rocky, exposed coastline
    • Sparse vegetation
    • Inhospitable to agriculture due to:
      • Thin, rocky soil
      • Strong northern winds
      • Limited freshwater sources
      • Short growing season
    • Historical uses:
      • Navigation landmarks
      • Strategic watchtowers
      • Small fishing communities
      • Seasonal grazing
    • Transitions into Eastern Senera's coastal plains

    Religion 🔗

    Orthodox Divine Masochism 🔗

    The state religion since mid-2nd century AI, Orthodox Divine Masochism pervades all aspects of Seneran society. The conversion from Kalassarian paganism was systematic and complete, with traditional practices strictly outlawed.

    Religious Administration 🔗

    • Central ecclesiastical authority
    • Regional church courts
    • Parish system
    • Monastic orders
    • Theological schools

    Public Worship 🔗

    • Mandatory attendance
    • Regular ceremonies
    • Festival calendar
    • Public penances
    • Communal rituals

    Culture 🔗

    Primogeniture 🔗

    AFter the Maidenfelds have seized power, they swiftly established a Patrilineal Primogeniture as a means of ensuring their hold on power. But in 675 AI, the prolific

    fter the first Succession War, the House of Maidenfeld was forced to implement an Elective Monarchy, with certain members of the nobility holding a special "elector" title.

    Peerage of the Realm 🔗

    Since the Fall of Western Kalassar, there have only been two dynasties to rule the entirety of Senera: the Maidenfelds and the Dragonhearts. While the Maidenfelds did gradually develop the system of feudalism during their campaigns to consolidate the realm under their dominion, it was the Dragonhearts who formalized the peerage system.

    The Peerage of the Realm was established following the War of Thyme and Fire, along with sweeping reforms to the judicial and administrative systems of the realm. It systematizes the existing feudal hierarchy, and codifies the rights and responsibilities of the nobility.

    Royalty 🔗

    Duchies 🔗

    Earldoms and Thanedoms 🔗

    Marquessates 🔗

    Viscounties 🔗

    Noble Titles outside the Peerage 🔗

    Counties 🔗

    Baronies 🔗

    Baronetcies 🔗

    Noble Houses of Post-Kalassarian Senera 🔗

    Major Houses 🔗

    House Maidenfeld (466 AI - Present) 🔗

    • Emerged during the Fall of Western Kalassar
    • Originally Kalassarian provincial administrators who maintained order
    • Consolidated power through agricultural estates and maritime trade
    • Ruled Senera from 466 AI to approximately 790 AI
    • Still influential in trade and agriculture, especially spices and herbs

    House Dragonheart (Drakenhart in Old Seneran) (c. 690 AI - Present) 🔗

    • Primary Domain: The Ranterg Heights
    • Ancestral Seat: Thrantorbury
    • Historical Context:
      • Originally a cadet branch of House Maidenfeld
      • Rose to power during the Succession Wars
      • Adopted Kalassarian-style name to project imperial grandeur while maintaining Orthodox legitimacy
      • Name possibly references the "Dragon's Trial" of Orthodox martyrdom
    • Religious Authority:
      • Strong ties to Orthodox Church of the Divine Masochist
      • Built grand Orthodox cathedrals in Thrantorbury
      • Patronage of major monasteries in the Ranterg Heights
      • Maintained tolerance for:
        • Kalassarian Paganism in eastern ports
        • Traditional Hick practices in remote regions
    • Key Holdings:
      • The Crown of Thorns (Thraltr Peak fortress-monastery)
      • Sacred Forest Preserves
      • Mountain Pass fortifications
    • Title: High Kings/Queens of Senera
    • Notable Features:
      • Claims dual legitimacy through:
        • Maidenfeld bloodline (ancient nobility)
        • Orthodox Divine Masochist patronage
      • Balances Orthodox doctrine with practical religious tolerance
      • Strategic marriage policy maintains ties with houses of all faiths

    Secondary Houses 🔗

    House Tidemark (c. 500 AI - Present) 🔗

    • Descended from early Kalassarian merchant families
    • Controls significant portions of southern coastal trade
    • Historically neutral in Maidenfeld-Dragonheart succession
    • Later aligned with Dragonhearts after securing trade privileges

    House Northcross (Pre-466 AI - Present) 🔗

    • Claims descent from pre-Kalassarian maritime traders
    • Survived imperial collapse through northern trade connections
    • Maintains strong presence in northern Senera
    • Key diplomatic links to Carlmark/Iutland

    House Keelward (c. 600 AI - Present) 🔗

    • Founded when Maidenfelds established Keelswood management
    • Traditional stewards of naval timber resources
    • Initially strong Maidenfeld loyalists
    • Maintained influence through lumber monopoly despite dynasty change

    Forest Distribution 🔗

    Central Highlands (Ranterg Range) 🔗

    • Mixed deciduous-coniferous forests
      • Oak-pine dominant on lower slopes
      • Pine-fir dominant at higher elevations
      • Dense understory in protected valleys
      • Thin woodlands on exposed ridges
    • Elevation zones:
      • Valley forests (500-1500 ft)
      • Mid-slope forests (1500-3000 ft)
      • High forests (3000-4200 ft)

    Maltrek Region 🔗

    • Maritime woodlands
      • Wind-sculpted coastal forests
      • Protected valley woodlands
      • Mixed oak-birch dominant
      • Scattered pine groves
    • Distinctive features:
      • Dense understory in sheltered areas
      • Stunted growth on exposed heights
      • Spring-fed grove pockets

    Western Foothills 🔗

    • Limestone woodland
      • Oak-ash dominant
      • Rich spring-fed valleys
      • Thin soils on ridges
      • Scattered clearings

    Administrative Divisions 🔗

    Western Provinces (Hick-dominant names) 🔗

    The Maltrek Thanedom 🔗

    • Capital: Malterburgh
    • Major settlements:
      • Bramwick (< Hick bram-vik "tide bay")
      • Thralmal (< Hick thral-mal "sacred pool")
      • Torward (< Hick tor-ward "peak-ward")
    • Notable features:
      • Ancient Hick astronomical sites
      • Sacred pools
      • Traditional forestlands

    The Rannek March 🔗

    • Capital: Rannekford
    • Major settlements:
      • Malterdale (< Hick mal-ter "pool-flow")
      • Graldene (< Hick gral-den "earth-valley")
      • Westbram (< Hick west-bram "west-tide")
    • Notable features:
      • Limestone river valleys
      • Traditional water management systems
      • Ancient Hick agricultural terraces

    Northern Provinces (Iutlandish influence) 🔗

    Skelmark County 🔗

    • Capital: Skelwick (< Iut. skip-vik "ship bay")
    • Major settlements:
      • Torholm (< Hick tor + Iut. holm "peak island")
      • Havenbeck (< Iut. haven-bek "harbor stream")
      • Northdal (< Iut. nord-dal "north valley")
    • Notable features:
      • Major shipyards
      • Trading ports
      • Mixed Hick-Iutlandish culture

    The Storskey Riding 🔗

    • Capital: Storwick
    • Major settlements:
      • Langdale (< Iut. lang-dal "long valley")
      • Hegfell (< Iut. høg-fell "high mountain")
      • Vikness (< Iut. vik-nes "bay point")
    • Notable features:
      • Timber reserves
      • Fishing ports
      • Ancient signal towers

    Eastern Provinces (Kalassarian dominance) 🔗

    The Inespell March 🔗

    • Capital: Surrey-on-the-Brams

      • Originally "Surrata-in-Bramaes" in Kalassarian records
      • Deliberately "Senerized" during military reorganization (c. 500 AI)
      • Combines Kalassarian element (Surrey < Surrata) with Hick hydronym (Brams < bram-aes)
      • Pattern adopted as standard for other strategic locations

    • Major settlements:

      • Port Surrey-on-the-Brams (naval headquarters)
      • Bramsgate (former Portbury, renamed in same directive)
      • Eastonton (maintains Kalassarian -ton suffix)

    • Notable features:

      • Island fortress complex
      • Primary naval base
      • Administrative center
      • Strategic harbor facilities

    Central Provinces (Mixed influence) 🔗

    The Ranterg Heights 🔗

    • Capital: Thrantorbury
    • Major settlements:
      • Peakford (hybrid Hick-Kalassarian)
      • Highbury (< Kal. high-burrium)
      • Torgate (< Hick tor + Kal. gate)
    • Notable features:
      • Mountain passes
      • Sacred sites
      • Forest preserves

    The Kethren March 🔗

    • Capital: Kethbury
    • Major settlements:
      • Watchton (< Hick keth + Kal. tonum)
      • Signalgate (hybrid name)
      • Hillbury (< Kal. hill-burrium)
    • Notable features:
      • Coastal watchtowers
      • Signal stations
      • Maritime defenses

    Peerage of Senera 🔗

    Royal Peerage 🔗

    High King/Queen of Senera 🔗

    • Current Holder: House Dragonheart
    • Seat: Thrantorbury
    • Special Privileges:
      • Appointment of Lord Admirals
      • Confirmation of Marcher Lords
      • Granting of new noble titles
      • Orthodox Church patronage rights

    Greater Nobility 🔗

    Dukes/Duchesses 🔗

    Duke of the North 🔗

    Duke of the East 🔗

    Duke of the South 🔗

    Duke of the West 🔗

    Marquessate 🔗

    House Surrata 🔗

    The coastal domain of the Inespell Gulf had been held by House Surrata since the Fall of Western Kalassar. They have been instrumental in the rise to power of the Maidenfeld Dynasty. After the dust had settled, the Maidenfeld monarch had designated the entirety of the gulf as a march under the authority of the first Marcher Lord of Surrey.

    After the War of Thyme and Fire, the Dragonhearts wanted to ensure that the powerful House Surrata was kept under their thumb, so the Inespell March was designated as a marquessate. The House would hold higher esteem in the peerage, but would lose the autonomy that a Marcher Lordship enjoyed.

    In the present day, the head of House Surrata not only holds the title of Marquess, but also commands the Eastern Fleet as Lord High Admiral of the Realm.

    • Domain: The Inespell March
    • Seat: Surrey-on-the-Brams
    • Special Right: Lord High Admiral of the Realm
    • Key Holdings:
      • Island fortress complex
      • Naval headquarters
      • Eastern harbors
      • Strategic port facilities

    Earldoms 🔗

    Thanedoms 🔗

    • House Tormark
      • Domain: The Maltrek Thanedom
      • Seat: Malterburgh
      • Special Right: Keeper of the Old Calendar

    Marcher Lords 🔗

    • House Rannok

      • Domain: The Rannek March
      • Seat: Rannekford
      • Special Right: Hereditary Granary-Keepers of the Realm

    Viscounts/Viscounties 🔗

    • House Maidenfeld

    The Maidenfelds used to hold the entirety of the Rannek March and were the ruling royal house of Senera. A once cadet branch of the House, the Dragonhearts, eventually contested the throne and supplanted the Maidenfelds after the War of Thyme and Fire.

    The Maidenfelds were not outright removed from the peerage, but were reduced to the status of Viscounts, and were restricted to the estates surrounding their ancestral lands in Thregel Valley in the western portion of the Rannek March.

    • Domain: Thregel Valley
    • Seat: Thregel Keep

    Lesser Nobility 🔗

    Counts/Countesses 🔗

    • House Spellward

      • Domain: The Lower Spells
      • Seat: Cape Spellward
      • Special Right:

    • House Skelwick

      • Domain: Skelmark County
      • Seat: Skelwick
      • Notable: Master Shipwrights

    • House Ketherling

      • Domain: Kethren County
      • Seat: Kethbury
      • Notable: Signal-Masters of the Coast

    Barons/Baronesses 🔗

    • House Bramwick

      • Domain: Western Tidelands (Maltrek coastal region)
      • Seat: Bramwick (former Hick tidal settlement)
      • Notable: Tide-Wardens of the Western Coast
      • Key Holdings:
        • Tidal harbors west of Maltrek
        • Traditional fishing rights
        • Coastal signal towers
      • Special Duties:
        • Maintain tidal calendars
        • Oversee traditional fishing grounds
        • Coordinate with Maltrek Thanedom on coastal defense

    • House Malterdale

      • Domain: Upper Malter Valley
      • Seat: Malterdale
      • Notable: River-Keepers

    • House Eastonton

      • Domain: Eastern Surrey
      • Seat: Eastonton
      • Notable: Harbor-Masters

    Baronets (lowest hereditary rank) 🔗

    • House Thralmal

      • Domain: Sacred Pools District
      • Notable: Spring-Keepers

    • House Torgate

      • Domain: Mountain Pass Holdings
      • Notable: Pass-Wardens

    • House Malthren (extinct 1275)

      • Domain: The Narrows
      • Seat: Malthren Yard (now abandoned)
      • Notable: Ancient Wardens of the Thramal

    Lesser Nobility of Eastern Senera 🔗

    Viscounts/Viscountesses 🔗

    • House Wardcross
      • Seat: Wardcross Keep, Wardcross Isle
      • Domain: Controls the crucial bridges across Bramsward Way connecting Surrey-on-the-Brams to the Southern Bank
      • Strategic importance:
        • Manages primary crossing point for southern trade routes
        • Controls river traffic along Bramsward Way
        • Maintains bridge infrastructure vital to regional commerce
      • Historical significance:
        • Elevated from baronial status in 1156 for defending the bridges during the Guild Wars
        • Traditional wardens of the southern water passage
        • Ancient rights to bridge tolls and river duties

    Barons/Baronesses 🔗

    • House Thralmal

      • Domain: Sacred Pools District
      • Notable: Spring-Keepers

    • House Torgate

      • Domain: Mountain Pass Holdings
      • Notable: Pass-Wardens

    Landed Knights 🔗

    • Not hereditary
    • Granted for service
    • Examples:
      • Knights of the Tide (maritime service)
      • Knights of the Granary (agricultural service)
      • Knights of the Signal (coastal defense)

    Special Ranks 🔗

    Lord/Lady Castellan 🔗

    • Appointed military governors
    • Command strategic fortresses
    • Report directly to Crown

    Port-Reeves 🔗

    • Elected by merchant guilds
    • Confirmed by Crown
    • Manage major trading ports

    Governance 🔗

    Royal Authority 🔗

    Wartime Powers 🔗

    • Right to impose kingdom-wide levies:
      • Military conscription
      • Emergency taxation
      • Requisition of ships
      • Commandeering of granaries
    • Must be declared through:
      • Royal Proclamation
      • Orthodox Church blessing
      • Notification to Small Court

    The Small Court 🔗

    Composition 🔗

    • Lord High Treasurer (appointed by Crown)
    • Three Marcher Representatives
    • Lord Admiral's Delegate
    • High Thane's Voice
    • Two Orthodox Church observers
    • Guild-elected Port-Reeve

    Peacetime Authority 🔗

    • Power to impose and collect:
      • Harbor duties
      • Granary tithes
      • Road tolls
      • Bridge fees
      • Market taxes
      • Salt levies
      • Timber rights

    Limitations 🔗

    • Cannot impose military levies
    • No authority over Church properties
    • Cannot override local noble privileges
    • Must submit annual accounts to Crown

    Meeting Schedule 🔗

    • Regular sessions:
      • Spring Assembly (planting levies)
      • Midsummer Court (trade duties)
      • Harvest Council (granary tithes)
      • Winter Session (year's accounting)
    • Emergency sessions:
      • Called by Crown
      • Called by majority of members
      • During natural disasters
      • Pre-war preparations

    Traditional Venues 🔗

    • Spring: Rannekford (agricultural focus)
    • Summer: Surrey-on-the-Brams (maritime trade)
    • Harvest: Malterburgh (granary assessment)
    • Winter: Thrantorbury (royal oversight)

    Royal Seat 🔗

    Castle Dragonheart 🔗

    • Location: Thrantorbury, capital of the Ranterg Heights
    • Position:
      • Crowns the highest point of Thrantorbury
      • Overlooks both city and mountain passes
      • Commands view of the Crown Road to Surrey

    Complex Features 🔗

    • The High Keep (original Maidenfeld fortress)

      • Ancient stone construction
      • Pre-dates Dragonheart rule
      • Houses the Dragon Throne Room

    • The Crown Cathedral

      • Built during early Dragonheart reign
      • Orthodox Divine Masochist architecture
      • Connected to Keep via covered bridge

    • The Court Quarter

      • Small Court chambers
      • Royal archives
      • Treasury vaults
      • Administrative offices

    • The Royal Ward

      • Noble residences
      • Diplomatic quarters
      • Guard barracks
      • Service buildings

    City of Thrantorbury 🔗

    • Surrounds Castle Dragonheart in concentric rings:
      • Inner Ring: Noble houses and Orthodox institutions
      • Middle Ring: Merchant quarters and guildhalls
      • Outer Ring: Craftsmen and markets
    • Notable Features:
      • The Crown Gate (main entrance)
      • Orthodox Quarter
      • Winter Court district
      • Royal granaries

    Local Administration 🔗

    City Classifications 🔗

    Strategic Cities (e.g., Port Surrey) 🔗

    • Dual authority system (Military/Civil or Crown/Noble)
    • Direct Crown oversight
    • Complex council structure
    • Special jurisdictional rights
    • Noble families maintain townhouses but limited direct power

    Major Cities (e.g., Tidemark, Malterburgh) 🔗

    • Municipal council with noble oversight
    • Local lord holds key appointment powers
    • Merchant guild influence
    • Orthodox Church representation
    • Traditional rights preserved

    Market Towns (e.g., Bramwick, Torgate) 🔗

    • Noble-appointed Burgher
    • Town council of guilds and property holders
    • Local lord's steward holds veto power
    • Orthodox parish significant influence
    • Market and fair rights

    Rural Settlements 🔗

    • Noble-appointed Reeve
    • Village council (informal)
    • Direct noble jurisdiction
    • Orthodox parish authority
    • Basic administrative rights

    Noble-Municipal Relations 🔗

    Strategic Cities 🔗

    • House Surrata in Port Surrey:
      • Military authority through Admiralty
      • Limited civil jurisdiction
      • Maintains ceremonial residence
      • Controls surrounding countryside
      • Revenue from naval operations

    Major Cities 🔗

    • House Maidenfeld in Rannekford:
      • Appoints key officials
      • Controls city guard
      • Collects certain taxes
      • Maintains urban castle
      • Holds emergency powers

    Market Towns 🔗

    • House Bramwick in Bramwick:
      • Direct administrative control
      • Market rights oversight
      • Justice administration
      • Tax collection rights
      • Emergency powers

    Noble Rights and Urban Administration 🔗

    Noble Privileges by Settlement Type 🔗

    Strategic Cities 🔗

    • Military Authority:
      • Command of city guard in wartime
      • Control of fortifications
      • Emergency mobilization rights
      • Arsenal oversight
    • Economic Rights:
      • Share of customs revenue
      • Special harbor duties
      • Strategic resource control
      • Military supply contracts
    • Limited Civil Powers:
      • Ceremonial presidency of festivals
      • Appointment of specific officials
      • Maintenance of noble courts
      • Emergency powers during crises

    Major Cities 🔗

    • Administrative Rights:
      • Appointment of key city officials
      • Oversight of city guard
      • Control of outer walls
      • Justice in serious crimes
    • Economic Powers:
      • Market tax collection
      • Trade license issuance
      • Guild charter approval
      • Resource management rights
    • Traditional Privileges:
      • Urban castle maintenance
      • First-purchase rights
      • Festival presidency
      • Emergency powers

    Market Towns 🔗

    • Direct Control:
      • Administrative appointments
      • Justice administration
      • Tax collection
      • Market regulation
      • Guard command

    Conflict Resolution Mechanisms 🔗

    Strategic Cities 🔗

    1. Regular Disputes:
      • Municipal Court (civil matters)
      • Admiralty Court (maritime/military)
      • Orthodox Arbitration (religious aspects)
    2. Jurisdictional Conflicts:
      • Crown Arbitration Board
      • Small Court oversight
      • Orthodox mediation
    3. Emergency Procedures:
      • Clear chain of command
      • Written protocols
      • Established precedents

    Major Cities 🔗

    1. Standard Process:
      • City Council first instance
      • Noble court appeal
      • Orthodox mediation
    2. Guild Matters:
      • Guild courts primary
      • Joint noble-guild tribunals
      • Appeal to Crown possible

    Market Towns 🔗

    1. Direct Resolution:
      • Noble court primary
      • Orthodox parish mediation
      • Appeal to higher noble possible

    Historical Development 🔗

    Pre-Kalassarian Era (Before 200 AI) 🔗

    • Hick tribal settlements
    • Noble war-bands as police
    • Market rights tied to defense
    • Simple chief/elder system

    Early Kalassarian Period (200-350 AI) 🔗

    • Imperial administrative system
    • First formal city charters
    • Military governors in ports
    • Standardized tax collection

    Late Kalassarian Period (350-435 AI) 🔗

    • Growing urban autonomy
    • Guild system development
    • Noble adaptation to urban life
    • Complex administrative codes

    Silent Ages (435-1225 AI) 🔗

    • Breakdown of imperial system
    • Rise of local noble power
    • Church mediation important
    • New urban-noble balance

    Modern Era (1225-Present) 🔗

    • Formalized dual authorities
    • Clear jurisdictional codes
    • Professional administration
    • Balance of traditional rights

    Noble Administrative Agents 🔗

    High Officers (Regional Level) 🔗

    The Seneschal 🔗

    • Chief administrative officer
    • Manages noble's entire domain
    • Usually from lesser noble family
    • Based at noble's seat
    • Coordinates other officers
    • Emergency powers in lord's absence

    The Chancellor 🔗

    • Head of noble's chancery
    • Document authentication
    • Record keeping
    • Correspondence management
    • Seal keeper
    • Usually Orthodox-educated

    Local Representatives 🔗

    Stewards (District Level) 🔗

    • Manage specific territories
    • Collect regular taxes
    • Oversee local justice
    • Monitor local officials
    • Report to Seneschal
    • Often from wealthy merchant families

    Bailiffs (Town/Village Level) 🔗

    • Day-to-day administration
    • Tax collection
    • Local law enforcement
    • Market supervision
    • Usually local appointees
    • Report to Stewards

    Specialized Agents 🔗

    Riding Officers 🔗

    • Mobile enforcement agents
    • Travel throughout the domain
    • Investigate complaints
    • Monitor local officials
    • Direct line to Seneschal
    • Often from military background

    Forest Wardens 🔗

    • Manage woodland resources
    • Enforce hunting rights
    • Prevent timber theft
    • Monitor charcoal burning
    • Usually hereditary position
    • Local knowledge essential

    Harbor Masters 🔗

    • Port fee collection
    • Shipping regulation
    • Cargo inspection
    • Maritime law enforcement
    • Often guild members
    • Report to both noble and town

    Religious Connections 🔗

    Parish Priests 🔗

    • Informal noble agents
    • Community monitoring
    • Dispute mediation
    • Record keeping
    • Education oversight
    • Report serious issues

    Monastery Liaisons 🔗

    • Economic partnerships
    • Document preparation
    • Educational services
    • Agricultural expertise
    • Independent but cooperative

    Emergency Systems 🔗

    Castle Castellans 🔗

    • Fortress commanders
    • Military readiness
    • Local defense
    • Emergency powers
    • Usually military veterans
    • Direct noble appointment

    Watch Captains 🔗

    • Town/village security
    • Night patrols
    • Fire prevention
    • Emergency response
    • Local recruitment
    • Report to Bailiffs

    Intelligence Network 🔗

    Market Informants 🔗

    • Trade monitoring
    • Price reporting
    • Merchant surveillance
    • Guild activity tracking
    • Informal network
    • Paid by results

    Tavern Keepers 🔗

    • Information gathering
    • Traveler monitoring
    • Local mood assessment
    • Rumor reporting
    • Licensed by noble
    • Regular reports required

    Maritime Officials and Appointments 🔗

    Strategic Ports (e.g., Port Surrey) 🔗

    • Harbor Master:
      • Appointed by Admiralty
      • Reports to naval chain of command
      • Independent of local noble authority
      • Works with merchant guilds
      • Crown-confirmed position

    Major Commercial Ports (e.g., Tidemark) 🔗

    • Harbor Master:
      • Nominated by Merchant/Shipwright Guilds
      • Confirmed by local noble
      • Reports to both guild and noble authority
      • Collects fees for both
      • Term-limited appointment

    Noble-Controlled Ports (e.g., Bramwick) 🔗

    • Harbor Master:
      • Noble appointee from guild members
      • Reports primarily to noble's steward
      • Works with local guild chapter
      • Hereditary in some cases
      • Limited autonomy

    Small Harbors 🔗

    • Harbor Reeve:
      • Direct noble appointment
      • Often local experienced sailor
      • Basic fee collection
      • Simple record keeping
      • Reports to bailiff

    Appointment Process (Major Commercial Ports) 🔗

    1. Guild Selection:

      • Guild council nominates candidates
      • Must be senior guild member
      • Requires maritime experience
      • Good standing with Orthodox Church
      • Clean financial record

    2. Noble Review:

      • Background investigation
      • Property qualification check
      • Loyalty assessment
      • Family connections reviewed
      • Orthodox parish consultation

    3. Confirmation:

      • Formal appointment ceremony
      • Oath of office
      • Bond posting
      • Seal and staff of office
      • Public announcement

    Guilds 🔗

    Maritime Trade Guilds 🔗

    Harbor Masters' Guild 🔗

    • Port administration
    • Pilot certification
    • Dock management
    • Cargo handling standards
    • Safety regulations
    • Weather monitoring

    Master Shipwrights' Guild 🔗

    • Ship design/construction
    • Quality standards
    • Naval contracts
    • Apprentice training
    • Technical innovation
    • Material specifications

    Ship Chandlers' Guild 🔗

    • Ship provisioning
    • Rope and sail making
    • Block and tackle craft
    • Naval stores
    • Equipment standards
    • Supply chain management

    Metalworking Guilds 🔗

    Master Smiths' Guild (Highest Status) 🔗

    • Subdivisions:
      • Naval Smiths (highest rank)
      • Weapon Smiths
      • Armor Smiths
      • Lock Smiths
      • General Smiths

    Specialized Metalworkers 🔗

    • Bell Founders
    • Bronze Casters
    • Pewter Workers
    • Silver/Goldsmiths
    • Tool Makers

    Tool Makers' Guild 🔗

    • Edge tool making
    • Shipwright tools
    • Agricultural implements
    • Construction tools
    • Mining equipment

    Guild Privileges 🔗

    Harbor Masters 🔗

    • Port fee collection rights
    • Pilot certification authority
    • Warehouse priority
    • Emergency powers
    • Weather warning authority

    Master Shipwrights 🔗

    • Naval contracts
    • Design approval rights
    • Material priority
    • Cross-domain authority
    • Price setting power
    • Admiralty contracts
    • Material allocation priority
    • Quality certification
    • Technical secrets
    • Training regulation

    Workshop Organization 🔗

    Port Facilities 🔗

    • Dry docks
    • Rope walks
    • Sail lofts
    • Smith forges
    • Storage warehouses

    Urban Workshops 🔗

    • Smith quarters
    • Foundry districts
    • Tool works
    • Training facilities
    • Material storage

    Quality Control 🔗

    • Material testing
    • Work inspection
    • Performance trials
    • Documentation
    • Warranty requirements

    Commercial Standards 🔗

    • Quality marks
    • Price regulations
    • Apprentice examination
    • Product warranties
    • Dispute resolution

    Timber and Woodworking Guilds 🔗

    Hierarchy of Specialization 🔗

    Master Shipwrights' Guild 🔗
    • Highest status woodworking guild
    • Royal charter
    • Admiralty oversight
    • Controls ship timber allocation
    • Exclusive naval construction rights
    Forest Wardens' Guild 🔗
    • Manages crown/noble forests
    • Sustainable harvesting practices
    • Timber marking/grading
    • Replanting programs
    • Seasonal cutting schedules
    General Woodworkers' Guild 🔗
    • Construction timber
    • Furniture making
    • Wagon/cart building
    • General carpentry
    • Tool making

    Regional Organization 🔗

    Keelswood Operations 🔗
    • Joint oversight:
      • Master Shipwrights
      • Forest Wardens
      • Admiralty representatives
    • Special regulations for:
      • Ship timber selection
      • Curved timber preservation
      • Crown forest management
      • Naval stockpile maintenance
    Noble Forests 🔗
    • Local guild chapters
    • Noble forester oversight
    • Regulated cutting rights
    • Apprentice training
    • Quality control
    Urban Workshops 🔗
    • Specialized districts
    • Shared facilities
    • Fire prevention measures
    • Timber storage
    • Apprentice housing

    Specialized Branches 🔗

    Ship Timber Specialists 🔗

    • Compass timber selection
    • Hull plank grading
    • Mast timber assessment
    • Keel wood certification
    • Long-term storage management

    Construction Masters 🔗

    • Building frame specialists
    • Bridge timber experts
    • Fortification woodwork
    • Church construction
    • Public works

    Furniture Crafters 🔗

    • Fine cabinetry
    • Church furnishings
    • Noble commissions
    • Merchant grade work
    • Common furniture

    Guild Rights 🔗

    Master Shipwrights 🔗

    • First selection of timber
    • Naval contract monopoly
    • Admiralty consultation rights
    • Cross-domain authority
    • Training regulation

    Forest Wardens 🔗

    • Forest access control
    • Cutting schedule authority
    • Quality certification
    • Replanting oversight
    • Price setting input

    General Woodworkers 🔗

    • Local market rights
    • Apprentice regulation
    • Quality standards
    • Price agreements
    • Workshop licensing

    Minor Houses of Historical Note 🔗

    House Malthren (Pre-Kalassarian - 1275 AI) 🔗

    • Origin: Ancient Magarisok Hick tribe
    • Domain: The Narrows (Baronetcy)
    • Seat: Malthren Manor
    • Notable Features:
      • One of Surrey's oldest noble houses
      • Preserved pre-Kalassarian traditions
      • Maintained ancient Hick customs
      • Known for mystical practices
    • Historical Significance:
      • Survived Kalassarian occupation
      • Retained traditional authority
      • Preserved ancient knowledge
      • Extinct upon death of Lord Marthur Malthren
    Location Type
    kingdom