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 gradual decay of magically-enhanced logistics and communication, Senera’s established maritime infrastructure allowed it to maintain relatively stable governance.

When Kalassus fell in 466 AI, 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

The Ranterg Mountain Range, its name, from Hick “thrantorgral”, meaning “thousand peaks”, divides Western from Eastern Senera. It is also the direct dominion of the Crown, and as such, the highest peaks are home to the Royal Palace.

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

The Maltreks

The Maltreks, are actually comprised of two geologically distinct ranges that are connected at the northwestern corner of the island. The Western Maltreks are a limestone-basalt formation, while the Northern Maltreks are a basalt-silica formation.

• Northwestern highlands
• Numerous sacred pools and springs
• Ancient Hick astronomical sites
• Peak: Mt Sinitar (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 and karsts in the 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

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

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
• 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

Culture

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.

These titles and lands are usually inherited by the bloodline of the holder, in a manner that is consistent with the rules of primogeniture. In the modern era, Senera had developed extensive jurisprudence to codify how titles within the peerage are granted, inherited, and sometimes revoked.

Royalty

Members of the ruling family of Senera hold the highest titles in the peerage. The head of the Royal House is the King or Queen of Senera, depending on which of the pair holds the direct line of succession. While by definition, the Royalty is not a part of the peerage, specific members of the Royal House have roles within the context of the peerage in certain circumstances, such as resolving deadlocks in legislative matters.

Duchies

Duchies are the most powerful of the peerage, and hold the largest holdings and estates in the realm besides the Royalty. The term Duke came from Kalassarian “Dux”, which was a title granted to governors of provinces. In fact, the first Maidenfeld King was once the Dux of Seneria before the Fall of Western Kalassar.

Dukes swear fealty to the King or Queen of Senera directly.

Presently, there are three duchies in the realm:

The Duchy of the Maltreks

The Duchy of Kethrek

The Duchy of the South (WIP)

Marquessates

Marquessates are the second most powerful of the peerage. Their lands are considered areas of military importance, and as such, the Marquesses are also typically given top military command in the realm.

Marquesses, as with Dukes, swear fealty to the Crown directly.

The Marquessate of Inespell

The Marquessate of Rannek

Earldoms and Thanedoms

Earldoms and Thanedoms are titles and lands typically granted by a Duke or a Marquess. They are the third most powerful of the peerage. While the Crown has final say over the confirmation of these titles, Earls and Thanes are expected to swear fealty to the Duke or Marquess who granted them their title.

Earldoms of Inespell

Earldoms of Rannek

Thanedoms of the Maltreks

Earldoms of the South

Viscounties

Viscounties are the second lowest rank within the peerage. They are typically granted by Earls or Thanes, but are also sometimes granted by Dukes or Marquesses to cadet branches of their houses. Viscounties are usually granted along with large contiguous agricultural estates in order to ease tax collection.

Viscounties of Inespell

Viscounties of Rannek

1. Maidenfeld

Viscounties of the South

Baronies

Baronies are the lowest rank within the peerage. They are typically granted to land holders of key townships, ports and cities where trade and commerce is paramount, but are not large enough to be considered a county.

Landed Gentry

Baronetcies

Baronetcies are considered by most as the lowest noble rank, however they are outside the peerage system. They are sometimes granted lands that are equal to, or even larger that some Baronies, but they are not granted the privileges of those within the peerage, such as the right to a vote in legislative matters.

The distinction between granting a title of Baron or Baronet is a political one, in which their lord would want to bestow a title, while minimizing political implications.

Knights

In the early days of the realm, knighthoods were granted to families within the equestrian class who did not have the political clout to be granted a higher title to. Knights are given estates within their liege lord’s domain along with a stipend to support their knightly duties.

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

Bishoprics

• The Bishop of Rannek
• The Bishop of Surrey
• The Bishop of Skelmark
• The Bishop of the Meridies

Feudal Hierarchy

After the Maidenfelds seized power, they swiftly established a Patrilineal Primogeniture as a means of ensuring their hold on power. But in 675 AI, the prolific royal house became mired in a succession crisis that led to a violent civil war. The Succession War forced the House of Maidenfeld to implement an Elective Monarchy, with certain titles within the nobility holding the privilege of electorship. These electors are collectively called the Noble Electorate.

After the War of Thyme and Fire, the Dragonhearts were able to consolidate their power and had reformed the system of feudal hierarchy. Their reforms changed how the ruling monarch was chosen, they streamlined the number of titles to have more rigidly defined ranks within a peerage, then codified the rules and responsibilities each rank enjoyed.

The Noble Electorate lost the right to elect the monarch, but retained the right to deliberate the passage of new taxes and laws.

Primogeniture

The Dragonhearts established an Equal Primogeniture where male and female members of the royal line had equal opportunity to inherit the throne. They established that the King and Queen would share joint authority over the realm, but only the blood members of the ruling family may inherit the throne.

For example, if the current monarchs do not have children, and the Queen was the daughter of the provious monarch, only her siblings could inherit. The King’s line could only inherit if there were no blood relatives of any degree of consanguinity are left from the Queen’s line.

Monarchy

King and Queen of Senera

• Current Holder: House Dragonheart - Seat: Thrantorbury - King: Threngral Dragonheart - Queen: Aelith Maidenfeld-Dragonheart

The King and Queen, by law, hold the highest authority in the realm. They are co-equal rulers and share joint authority over the realm. However, only the member of the ruling family may inherit the throne according to the rules of primogeniture.

The King and Queen may decide among themselves which portions of authority they shall exercise, but there are no legal limits to the authority of either monarch.

Their roles, duties, and privileges are as follows:

• Ultimate authority over the lands and titles of the realm
• Power to veto legislation passed by the Noble Electorate
• Power to declare martial law, which in itself allows:
  • Imposition of emergency taxes
  • Declaration of emergency legislation
  • Conscription of military forces
  • Requisitioning of supplies and resources
  • Suspension of certain rights and privileges
• Authority to declare war
• Authority to grant and/or confirm noble entitlements
• Authority to dispense justice
• Authority to grant pardons
• Authority to delegate Royal Authority, by appointing the following ministerial roles:
  • Lord Chancellor
  • Lord Treasurer
  • Ambassador General
  • Royal Seneschal
  • Lord Chamberlain
• Authority to select a Bishop from a pool of candidates nominated by the Orthodox Church

Greater Nobility

Dukes/Duchesses

Duke Maltrek

Duke Kethrek

Marquessate

Marquessate of Inespell

Marquessate of Rannek

Earldoms/Counties

• 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

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

Lesser Nobility

Viscounts/Viscounties

• House Eastonton

  • Domain: Northern Inespell Coast
  • Seat: Eastonton
  • Notable: Harbor-Masters `

• 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

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

Naval Smiths

• 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

Naval Standards

• 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 /misc/orbs-of-power

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