[X] You proclaim a New Independent Kingdom!
-[X] A Sovereign Nation
I'd like for us to play a small power, struggling to make desperate moves to survive the battleground. A game where just having our culture exist in the end with our autonomy not totally gone would count as a well deserved win.
With this choice I'm thus looking for something other than a world conquest. Most of the given factions have built in motivations and capabilities for subjugating or destroying all the other factions, and/or limited possibilities for diplomacy. "Sovereign Nation" allows us to be able to make independent decisions, while also being so small that our only hope is some truly epic diplomacy!
[X] You proclaim a New Independent Kingdom!
-[X] A Sovereign Nation
I'd like for us to play a small power, struggling to make desperate moves to survive the battleground. A game where just having our culture exist in the end with our autonomy not totally gone would count as a well deserved win.
With this choice I'm thus looking for something other than a world conquest. Most of the given factions have built in motivations and capabilities for subjugating or destroying all the other factions, and/or limited possibilities for diplomacy. "Sovereign Nation" allows us to be able to make independent decisions, while also being so small that our only hope is some truly epic diplomacy!
I'll be honest my vote for the Church was for the ways it can be played off the other factions-
Like what if we ah, 'rephrase' the Empress as a servant of Titanius? Or marry it instead to the honor codes of House StormWeaver?
Basically, it's the way we could potentially 'glom' onto the other factions as they march onwards could be highly interesting.
Admittedly, one of these Quests I'd also like to see the Church as a proper force for good rather than basically a proto-political party thing but first it's gotta become more popular to even try that sort of thing.
I'll be honest my vote for the Church was for the ways it can be played off the other factions-
Like what if we ah, 'rephrase' the Empress as a servant of Titanius? Or marry it instead to the honor codes of House StormWeaver?
Basically, it's the way we could potentially 'glom' onto the other factions as they march onwards could be highly interesting.
Admittedly, one of these Quests I'd also like to see the Church as a proper force for good rather than basically a proto-political party thing but first it's gotta become more popular to even try that sort of thing.
I will admit that that is something I never considered. It would be cool to see you guys reform the religion in the way that pleases one of the other factions.
The Church being a proper force for good depends heavily on you guys and the dice rolls. It'll start out as one, but with the way things are going it will need to worry about heresy and radicals trying to take over which could lead to it becoming either Crusading Fanatics that kill anyone who question them or Chaotic Zealots that worship dark gods.
"Our greatest foe is not the traitor that knocks at our door. Our greatest competitor is not the upstart Senator who fancies themself a ruler. All of them are of little importance because our cause is just, noble, and true. Defeat is impossible for us. Our greatest enemy is the one that rests inside our home, the one that we trust and aid in these dark times. Indeed, we are all the enemy of each other because we are divided when we should be united. Only together can we save our home and honor both Elysia and our Ancestors."
- Praetor Hindrik IX Weijermars addressing the other Praetors
When news of the Empress' death finally caught wind among the people of Titanus, all hell broke loose as the nation descended into chaos and gave way to hundreds of kingdoms all declaring sovereignty.
In the Northern Territories, Isabella Blackhawk has declared the Dread Peninsula independent of the Grand Empire of Titanus and has rallied the undead under her banner as the new Dread Queen. With an eternal legion of unliving warriors at her beck and call, the Dread Queen has quickly eliminated all opposition in the wasting tundras. From the tribes of Yor to the Arctic clans, she now lies as the undisputed ruler of the North and focuses her gaze on the rest of Titanus. To make matters worse, all of your contacts have gone dark, meaning that they've either been killed or joined the new Dark Lord. Unfortunately, your scouts weren't able to discover if the envoys of the other Senators encountered the same fate or if this was retaliation for supporting the royal cause. One way or the other, this is an obvious act of war and unless you take it upon yourself to mend relations, open hostility will commence the minute either of you is ready for war.
In the Western Territories along the coast, Tesshin Kurou has declared the Bright Sea Region independent and has, with the Iron Circle's approval, closed off the Aquilian Kingdom from the rest of the land. According to your scouts' reports, Tesshin officially addressed the nation and stated, "Due to recent developments being made throughout the land, the government of Aquilia feels it best to end all relations with the newly established foreign powers until it has been given a sufficient time period to consider, review, and perhaps reform its current standing and policies." A sound strategy when one doesn't want to immediately involve themselves with the Game of Thrones, but isolationism is a good way to find yourself all alone when the monsters are at your door.
In the Southern Territories, Deylus Lutherician has declared the Twilight Rock County independent of the Grand Empire of Titanus and has been met with great resistance from all of the "nobles" that reside there. Your scouts report that the Mad Count has been mostly isolated as all of his lieutenants rebelled in hopes of seizing control of the county for themselves, the most promising of these "warlords" are two men by the names of Volcatius and Alkamenous. This is actually quite beneficial for you since Deylus will be occupied for the beginning of this era, assuming he isn't removed from this game entirely.
In the Eastern Territories, Ammon Stormweaver has declared the Stormlands independent and has rallied the people under his banner as the new King of Storms. With an unstoppable legion of soldiers ready to die for the greater good, the nation has quickly annexed its surrounding neighbors and begun mobilizing for another war. Strangely enough, the mountain clans have been highly supportive of the Stormweaver regime and have happily accepted vassalage. Your spies weren't really able to learn what led to this union; however, they report that House Stormweaver appears very open to cooperating with former Senators.
In the Inner Territories, Tamaris Geldari has declared the Veiled Regions independent of the Grand Empire of Titanus and….that's it. Information had always been challenging to acquire when it comes to the Veiled Regions, which is expected since it's called the VEILED REGIONS! Thankfully it's the middle of the Iron Winter, which means that they're currently sleeping but knowing that fails to relieve you of your worries.
Throughout all of Titanus, Grimlock has declared the Church of Elysium independent of the Grand Empire and has issued a clarion call for the faithful sons and daughters of Elysia to join him at the Angelarium to discuss the future of the Elysion Faith and the role it will play in this "new world." Unfortunately, your scouts weren't able to provide you with an exact number of people who answered the call which sadly leaves you without knowing how supported the church is. To add to the severity of the situation, the local church in your territory chose not to answer the call. You're not sure if this is the work of something sinister or not, but unless you deal with these "heretics" your relation with the Church of Elysium will suffer.
And then there's you. You, the only Senator that chose to be subservient to another. You, the only ruler that honored their pledge to Empress Elysia. The only nation that chose to stay true to its history and honor the oath it swore to the Grand Empire of Titanus. You will have to be prepared for the oncoming storm, for it will strike you harder than your rival Senators as the winds of revolution try to extinguish the withering flame of the Empire. Thankfully, there were some individuals in the world that shared your sense of duty and have remained loyal to the true power of Titanus. These loyalists, alongside the Praetors and their royal families, have accepted your proclamation as the last bastion of Imperial Authority, and have arrived at your nation ready for the challenges ahead.
House Weijermars, led by Praetor Hindrik IX, has experienced some minor setbacks on their journey to your territory. They ran into the typical problems of rebels, bandits, and beasts pouncing on them as well as the typical troubles of moving through enemy territory and being strong-armed by corrupt despots trying to further their small powerbases. Thankfully, nothing of any real value was lost and the Weijermars were able to bring a good chunk of valuables from the Imperial Treasury before the city was lost. This influx of wealth will allow you to stabilize the nation and stop an economic crash from occurring.
House Rodier, on the other hand, has experienced better fortune than the Weijermars. Praetor Nymeria, or the Black Baroness, reports "smooth sailing" from the Imperial City to your kingdom due to her cleverly capitalizing on the chaos of the land to further increase support. They brought with them about 5 battalions of Imperial soldiers, 2 companies of Imperial cavalry, a squad of the Forsaken Valkyries, and ¼ of the esteemed Phoenix Guardians! Overall the Rodier's brought with them about 2,775 troops ready to march onto the traitors that proclaim themselves "independent" and "sovereign." This is fantastic as now you actually have a military to conquer and subjugate your neighbor., Of course, a large portion of it will be used to defend the nation and keep the peace, but it's still better than having no army to flaunt. This isn't even mentioning the fact that all the females in House Rodier are excellent generals with the Black Baroness being the "greatest" field marshal alive.
The last of the Praetors to arrive at your residents was Turiel Ebonwing, and you'll admit that he's seen better days. According to the White Wolf, "The bastards were waiting for us. Those self-proclaimed men of god besieged my manor and surrounded us the minute that the city devolved into chaotic battle against itself. The Eagle Lord declared my entire house and sacred order heretical and rallied the people against us. My men fought valiantly but we were outnumbered and unprepared for this betrayal. My manor was burned and all of the artifacts were taken." This is….dire news. Now, the Imperial artifacts rest in the hands of the Church, and they have made it clear that they want the head of Turiel on a pike.
----------------------
When everyone of importance arrived and formalized themselves with the lay of the land, you knew that there was no time to waste and immediately gathered everyone to your private studies. It was time to discuss the future of the kingdom, and how exactly it would branch from the foundation laid by Empress Elysia when she ruled. Unfortunately, the three families never truly saw eye to eye with one another, and the fact that you'll all be working together to decide the path of this nation has only served to strengthen the bared rivalries.
Tensions were high, to say the least during the meeting.
The first topic of importance that was discussed was the structure of the administration. You were the first to speak, wanting to be the one to break this eerie silence and prevent the tension from boiling over, "Allow me to formally greet and welcome all of you to my humble abode. You cannot fathom the gratitude I feel toward all of you for accepting my pledge to your cause. As much as I desire to host a ceremony in celebration of this union, it is high time to structure ourselves. We cannot hope to save the world of Titanus if we do not even repair the foundation for which we stand upon." Your opening was met with acceptance among the families, each one nodding in agreement but still remaining silent.
"I believe we should first discuss the composition of our administration. As we all know, it is tradition, declared by the Empress herself, for a person to hold supreme control over the Empire. Absolutism is-"
"A philosophy that died along with our beloved Goddess," Turiel interjects with blatant disgust. "It is evident throughout the whole of Titanus that the people are tired of being ruled by tyrants. They desire a voice in the government, and actually, want to know that their rights are safe and not subject to the whims of whoever rules over them."
Hindrik was the next person to speak, stopping you from continuing your thought, "Perhaps you should actually examine the current situation before stating such outrageous claims Turiel."
"Excuse me?"
"You claim that people want a play in governance, but there has been no example of this desire coming to light. The traitorous Senators all declare themselves kingdoms, even Aquilia holds Tesshin as an undisputed monarch, and the minor upstarts throughout the land are busy killing each other in the name of their "warlords." Absolutism isn't dead, in fact, it thrives because now we have hundreds of nations following it instead of one."
Resting your head in your palm, you let out a soft sigh, "Oh boy here we go."
"No Desire?" Turiel shouts at Hindrik who is looking down at him with arrogant eyes. "Then explain the wars in both the West and South! Two warlords challenge the Mad Count's reign for the establishment of a-"
"A what? That poor excuse for a district had the most autonomy in the Empire! If the people were truly tired of this "cycle of oppression" then why do they support these monarchs? Wouldn't they support the Mad King and their beloved free state?"
"You know that the Mad Count outlawed the most basic princi-"
"Enough," Nymeria quickly silence the two with her chilling monotonous voice. Her silver eyes pierce the two royals clearly showing her dissatisfaction with their behavior. "You both are getting off topic. We are here to decide the way this nation will be led. This argument of ideologies you two are so eager to have can commence on your own personal time. Senator, please continue ."
"Thank you lady Nymeria. Absolutism would be the ideal way to govern, but that would lead to problems since no one here is actually related to the Empress. We simply cannot unless everyone here agrees on one ruler. It would be best to simply state our proposal and cast our votes for the type of administration as I did with my fellow Senators."
Nymeria, Hindrik, and Turiel all agreed to your proposal.
After 4 minutes, 1 for everyone, you all cast your votes. Unsurprisingly, everyone voted for their own form of government, everyone except you. All three of them stare at you with piercing stares, waiting to see which of them you'll truly support.
Now to be completely honest, there is nothing forcing you to follow the will of the council. Despite the wishes of the Praetors and the majority consensus, you can enact whatever policy or reform you deem appropriate for the issue at hand. The Imperial families will be furious at this "abuse" of power, but there is nothing they can really do to stop you. You have governed this province for 5 years, and the people have grown quite comfortable under your rule.
What did you do?
[ ] You agreed with Hindrik's proposal. You will all work together and share power much like a council, but the original style of the Empire would be upheld meaning that commoners are effectively powerless and barred from any federal office.
[ ] You agreed with Nymeria's proposal. Similar to Hindrik's idea, a council consisting of you four will be installed; however, Nymeria stated that the rights of the commoners should be ensured and that promising individuals be allowed to hold specific positions in the government.
[ ] You agreed with Turiel's proposal. Unlike his peers, Turiel believed that the government should be open to all of its citizens. Any decisions concerning the nation as a whole should be open for public debate. Plus, everyone should be allowed to work for the nation regardless of origin.
[ ] You declared a state of emergency and reinstated the position Dictator. The Goddess is dead by an unknown assailant, and almost all have raised their banners against the Empire! This is not the time for petty squabbles embedded in the stagnating nature of politics, this is the time for action!
- [ ] Hindrik Weijermars shall be the new Dictator of the Grand Empire of Titanus! Hindrik is a staunch traditionalist that strongly favors the status quo set in place by Elysia, as such, it is simply logical for him to rule unopposed. With him in charge, the ways of old will endure through this tribulation.
- [ ] Black Baroness Nymeria Rodier shall be the new Dictator of the Grand Empire of Titanus! Nymeria is a staunch militarist that strongly favors the concept of an "Organic Kingdom," which is the idea that every element of a nation is like a cell in the body. With her in charge, the nation will become a self-sufficient empire under her iron boot heel.
- [ ] White Wolf Turiel Ebonwing shall be the new Dictator of the Grand Empire of Titanus! Turiel is a strong advocate for the ideas of republicanism and was the main supporter of many of the reforms that Elysia implemented. With him, in charge, the nation shall value freedom and skill over tradition and bloodlines.
- [ ] You shall be the new Dictator of the Grand Empire of Titanus! You have ruled over this land for years, hand picked by the Empress herself to be one of her Senators! If anyone should rule this nation then it is you, and the families are too blinded by their petty rivalries to do what is necessary for the success of this kingdom. You are not declaring yourself heir to the Imperial throne, but while the throne is vacant you will rule unchallenged in these lands!
[ ] Write-In
Once the votes were all cast, you found your side winning with unanimous support from all of the Imperial Families. You're not sure if they actually agreed with your proposal or if they understood their propositions, but you all proceeded onto other topics of importance.
The next issue that had to be resolved was the status of the nation's military. As it stood, the army was entirely under the Black Baroness' control exempting the Phoenix Guardians who only answer to the Empress and the Comes Domesticorum. The Lost Hope Valkyries are the household guards of the Rodiers, and the Imperial troops have all been led by Nymeria since they were recruited ensuring their loyalties. To avoid a coup from House Rodier, you all proposed ways to properly organize the military and prevent one person from having complete control much to Nymeria's dismay.
Hindrik suggested returning to the old ways before the Imperial Army was created: the reestablishment of knighthood orders, and allowing the nobility to grow their own armies that answer the King's call in times of war. He argues that this will placate both the nobility because it will prevent the ruler from abusing his powers and dishonoring the rights of the nobles. This decentralized military will also allow the nobles to structure their armies anyway they see fit, which will allow the military as a whole to be specialized and versatile.
Nymeria countered Hindrik's proposal by stating how such a military would serve only to encourage rebellion and internal strife between the nobles. She argues that the nation requires a strong federal army that adheres to a strict chain of command based on merits rather than bloodlines like the Imperial Army created by the Empress. This centralized military would allow the army to become a strong, united Warmachine that fights for the nation instead of the noble that pays them the most, and it would make it easier for the kingdom to mobilize in times of war.
Turiel, surprisingly, proposed something similar to Hindrik if not more….radical. He argues that the nation shouldn't reestablish outdated methods like knighthood orders or noble armies, but he also believes that the nation doesn't require a standing army because both would allow a tyrant to take control whether it be the nobles or the ruler. He presents a "nation at arms" military, which is an army composed of militias, guilds, and mercenaries organized and created by the people. Such a style of martial force is beneficial with promoting patriotism among the people, but it could lead to a disorganized force that battles itself over petty differences.
You were the last to submit your idea for the military administration.
What did you propose?
[ ] Something extremely similar to Hindrik's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Hindrik, as such, you simply voted for his idea.
[ ] Something extremely similar to Nymeria's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Nymeria, as such, you simply voted for her idea.
[ ] Something extremely similar to Turiel's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Turiel, as such, you simply voted for his idea.
[ ] You proposed something different from the already presented ideas. (Write-In)
Once the military situation was settled, your supported side winning, everyone started to discuss the many other aspects of the nation. The debates went on for hours due to people going back and forth on the best ways to handle things like the economy, industry, foreign relations, etc. After going in a circle for the 6th time, you all simply agreed on handling all other aspects of the nation the same way that the Empress did before the Empire fell apart.
With the overall administration of the nation settled, it was time to focus on the issues that have appeared since the Empress' death became known.
One of the issues being the current relation between the Elysion Faith and your Empire.
Turiel was the first to speak on the matter, expected since the Church showed open hostility to him, "The Eagle Lord has bared his malice toward our cause. We did not seek this war of faiths, but it is clear that that is what he desires. The cruel man that fancies himself a ruler seeks to throw the world into darkness by promoting violence among the faithful to further his own power. We must strike him down before he woos too many lost souls."
"Are you mad or just stupid?" Hindriks asked Turiel clearly baffled by his suggested course of action. "If we declare war on the Church then we'll turn the entire populace against us! Who will side with us when we openly fight the Chose-?"
"The wolf is right," Nymeria chimes in earning a shocked expression from everyone. "Grimlock has shown us his true colo-"
The Black Baroness is interrupted from her thought when the door to your studies is slammed open. You all turned to face the intruder, and see a boy about 18 standing there with your guard behind.
"S...sorry my lord. I..I tried….to stop him, but...he's a..slippery bastard," your guard says through quick breaths, displaying his exhaustion.
"I'm not too late. Am I?" The boy asks, sharing your guard's exhaustion, as he looks at you.
You shake your head no, presuming he was referring to the current meeting.
The boy mumbles a yes underneath his breath while fixing his posture. He does a short bow, poorly mind you, before pulling up a chair and sitting down near you.
You all meet each others' gaze before looking back to the stranger. He was just sitting there with a smile on his face oblivious to the stares focused on him. Turiel motioned for you to talk to him.
"Who are y-"
"Oh right! So sorry, I forgot. My name is Vilhelm...Vilhelm Highhill. I am here as the chosen representative of the Council of High-Bloods."
"Highbloods?"
"You know? House Goldfeather, House Silverwing, House Ironclaw, and House Heaven."
"And House Highhill?"
"Yep! We are all here to support you!"
"Well Vilhelm, you can ensure the...Highbloods that their support is most appreciated and that we will do everything to ease their concerns, but this meeting is for members of the Imperial Court only."
"Then it's a good thing that I'm a member of the Imperial Court."
Turiel was the first to respond to Vilhelm's claim, "Impossible. Only the Empress had the power to choose members of the Imperial Court, and the only ones chosen were the Senators and us."
"That is only partially true White Wolf. Under article 2 section 5 of the Imperial Constitution, 'The Imperial Court consists of the elected peers of the 5 classes of Titanus. The Clergy, the Military, the Commoners, the Nobility, and the Guilds will all choose a representative to participate in the ruling Council.' I am here to represent the nobility."
"You bastards dare have the nerve," Hindrik grits through his teeth clearly showing his anger. "You lowlives dare construct a Constitution! Who the hell do you think you are?"
"I am a noble adhering to Imperial Law, my friend. 2 years before today, the Empress authorized the creation of a policy known as the 'Law of Equal Consent.' The law effectively allowed the 5 classes to pass any law or policy they deemed appropriate as long as the entire class voted unanimously on the rule. The only people that possessed the power to overturn the policy were the Empress herself and her 'loyal' Senate, yet with the Empress dead and the Senate disbanded there is no one who can overturn it."
Hindrik is vibrating with anger at this point, his disgust toward Vilhelm radiating off of him like the light of a blazing star. You're confident that he's contemplating murdering Vilhelm here and now, thankfully he's able to calm himself and regain his composure.
You're not sure if you'll actually support the "Imperial Constitution" and ratify it as the law of the Empire, but you have to give the Highbloods props for abusing the "Law of Equal Consent." Technically it is still in effect since you are the remnants of the Grand Empire of Titanus, but you can also argue that it has to be reviewed due to the death and disbandment of the Empress and Senate.
Whether you like it or not, you will have to allow Vilhelm to attend the council for now. The Council of the Highbloods are aristocrats that swore loyalty to the Praetors' cause, and angering them will cause them to withdraw their support. Normally you wouldn't care for the thoughts of the nobility, but with your nation being isolated politically you'll need all of the help you can get. Plus if the nobles did withdraw their support, your cause would lose legitimacy as more would turn their back on the Empire in light of your treatment of allies.
You tell your guard to leave, effectively telling everyone that Vilhelm can stay.
"Well Vilhelm, we were currently discussing how we should approach Grimlock and the Church of Elysium. Nymeria and Turiel both agree that we should declare a formal declaration of war, while Hindrik believes that…..?"
"We should mend relations with the Church. We should send someone to represent us in the Angelarium to show Grimlock that we still follow the Elysion Faith and the teachings of Goddess Elysia. We need to show the people that our cause truly is just if we are to unify this land, and the best way to achieve this is to have the Church support us."
"That. As you can clearly see Vilhelm, they have taken their stances on the issue. We are the only ones who haven't. Do you have a proposition?"
Vilhelm crosses his arms and closes his eyes thinking deeply on the issue. After a few minutes of silence, Vilhelm opens his eyes and claps his hands together. "We should….completely ignore the Church of Elysium," he says with rather high enthusiasm.
"Turiel, I take back everything. This man is truly stu-"
"Why do you think we should ignore it?" you ask Vilhelm quickly cutting off Hindrik.
He leans back in his chair, index finger on his chin, "Well, why should we pay them any attention? The local church is clearly against the Eagle Regime, and Grimlock has made it clear that he dislikes everyone here. If we declare war then we're only recognizing him, which could lead to us being alone against the people. Mending relations means turning against the wishes of our people. Ignoring them leaves our options open."
A rather impressive proposal from Vilhelm. Impressive enough to earn the support from the three Praetors.
What did you do?
[ ] You agreed with Vilhelm's proposition. The nation would ignore Grimlock's hostile activities and not engage with the Church of Elysium in any shape or form.
[ ] You agreed with Nymeria's and Turiel's proposition. Overruling the popular consensus, you decided that the nation would issue a formal declaration of war against the Eagle Lord.
[ ] You agreed with Hindrik's proposition. Overruling the majority of votes among the council, you decided to openly mend relations with the Church of Elysium.
- [ ] You sent the Black Baroness to the Angelarium to serve as the nation's representative.
- [ ] You sent the White Wolf to the Angelarium to serve as the nation's representative.
- [ ] You sent Hindrik to Angelarium to serve as the nation's representative.
- [ ] You sent Vilhelm to Angelarium to serve as the nation's representative.
- [ ] You went to the Angelarium to serve as the nation's representative.
[ ] You presented a new proposition. Either by overruling the popular consensus or by convincing two of the others to side with you, you decided to do something entirely different from what the others had in mind. (Write-In)
The next issue you all discussed before concluding the meeting was the current situation of the local church. The local church, known as the Radiant Sunrise Sanctum, refused to answer the Eagle Lord's summon. This is a clear sign of defiance from the Sanctum, but no one knows what caused it. It is possible that the Sanctum is currently in chaos due to the Goddess' death, yet it is also possible that they don't recognize Grimlock as the head of the Church. Either way, this succession from the Church, intentional or not, can be used to your advantage.
Nymeria, Vilhelm, and Hindrik all shared your eye for opportunity, for they all agreed to give national support to the Sunrise clergy. This act would serve to anger Grimlock and his followers, but it will also help you to even the field if a holy way ever broke out. Plus the people will be glad that the local belief is supported by the government.
Turiel supported this proposal, but he wanted to take it a step further. He believes that the Church should possess a role in the administration! He states that the Empire should challenge the Church of Elysium for the role of "Defender of the Faith," which will unite the loyal sons and daughters of Elysia under your banner if they are unhappy with the Eagle's reign. A clear act of defiance against the Church of Elysium, and a good way to splinter the faith even more. Allowing religion to have a place in the leadership of the Empire will also allow you to control the development of the faith in your territory.
Who did you side with?
[ ] You sided with the majority of the votes. Nymeria, Hindrik, Vilhelm, and yourself were in agreement that the Sanctum should be supported but nothing else.
[ ] You sided with Turiel. Either a member of the council will become the head of the Radiant Sunrise Sanctum, or a clergyman chosen by the Sanctum would be allowed to join the council. One way or the other the church would have an official role in the government of the Empire.
- [ ] Turiel would become the new head of the sanctum and by extension the head of the Elysion Faith.
- [ ] Nymeria would become the new head of the sanctum and by extension the head of the Elysion Faith.
- [ ] Hindrik would become the new head of the sanctum and by extension the head of the Elysion Faith.
- [ ] Vilhelm would become the new head of the sanctum and by extension the head of the Elysion Faith.
- [ ] You would become the new head of the sanctum and by extension the head of the Elysion Faith.
- [ ] You honored the current procedures and tradition of the Sanctum thus allowing them to choose their own representative in the council, which would be either the head of the church or someone the temple is largely fond of.
[ ] Write-In
With the most apparent issues dealt with and settled, the meeting was called to an end and everyone has set out to enact the reforms and new policies agreed upon. Vilhelm left with a smile on his face, while the three Praetors all left in eerie silence causing you to grow concerned with your choices. Perhaps you made the wrong decisions, or maybe they're simply considering their next moves? It doesn't really matter.
Once everyone left the room, you blew out the candles and walked to your private chambers for rest.
----------------------
Your room, much like everything else in the mansion, was plain and mundane. It provided only the necessities to relaxing comfortably. A king-sized bed, drawers, dressers, armoires, a mirror, a personal chest, etc. Too tired to really look around or mess with anything, you rush over to your bed and prepare to leap into its soft comforting embrace until you notice a map of the world taking up the entire space.
You groan a bit, but don't toss the map onto the floor. You stare at it as thoughts of Titanus fill your mind.
The world of Titanus stands divided. No longer is it united under one Empire. Now there are hundreds if not thousands of kingdoms fighting for their place in the sun. New maps will have to be drawn as new borders are created. The first step is outlining the borders of your nation.
Where is your Empire?
[ ] In the Ashenlands on the very outskirts of Titanus. Located in the deep south, beyond the lands of the Mad Count, and on the edge of the world, there is a land shrouded in ash and black fog. A realm inhospitable for most of the inhabitants of Titanus, for the ash is like shifting sand and liquid fire sprouts from the earth often. You're not sure why the Empress gave you this land to build upon since its nearly impossible to really do anything, but it does isolate you from the rest of the world.
- [ ] The Scholars - Throughout your 5 years of governing the Ashenlands you've focused on studying the physical limitations and boons it has to offer, as a result, your people have developed both industrial techniques and mystic arts unique to them alone. The Scholars' developments will truly prove beneficial as now your tech and magic are one in the same.
- [ ] The Knights - Capitalizing on the inhospitable nature of the Ashlands, you ensure that your people were constantly subjected to the choking air and scorching flames. This treatment has led to a select few of people developing an unnatural connection to the land resulting in special traits and powers.
- [ ] Write-In
[ ] In the fields of Suchlaph to the East. Located just before the Stormlands, the fields of Suchlaph are great plains of endless grass that stretch on for miles in the shadows of the everlasting storm with a small pond resting in the center. The plains are highly fertile and very suitable for farming, plus there are numerous beasts grazing this emerald land.
- [ ] The Horsemen - The fields of Suchlape are home to many of Titanus' beasts like horses and bison, as a result, you concentrated the majority of the nation's resources on utilizing these creatures for national security.
- [ ] The Farmers - Only a fool is incapable of acknowledging the wealth that this land has to offer. Thankfully you are no fool (you think). Over the 5 years, you have invested heavily in the agricultural development of the nation transforming your people into ample farm workers that are used to blazing sun and grueling work.
- [ ] Write-In.
[ ] At the Gate of Netzah in the North. Before the twisted and forsaken lands of the Dread Peninsula there lies a range of crooked mountains that divides the world from the Northern waste. Your nation lies in the taigas below Netzah's indifferent gaze and along his broken body. The North provides you solitude as you contain the undead scourge, and Netzah provides fortifications and wealth.
- [ ] The Wardens - For 5 years you have been battling with the Dread Queen for Northern dominance. Raiding each others' lands, sabotaging one another, applying sanctions, purifying and corrupting land, etc. This ceaseless conflict between you two has caused your people to become vigilant experts at combating the undead scourge.
- [ ] The Guardians - The north has always been a refuge for the vagabonds and wanderers that have no place to call home. Your nation accepts all who seek redemption or a second chance at life causing your land to be filled with people from all walks of life. This connection between your people has caused most prejudices to disappear and their cultures to blend together.
- [ ] Write-In
[ ] In the Driftwood Forests of the West. Before you reach the coast of Titanus and see the golden ocean of Aquilia, you must first traverse the numerous forests that call the western hemisphere home. Your nation lies in the middle of one of these natural communities, in the region known as the Driftwood Forests a place that is famed for its .strange treasures.
- [ ] The Rangers - The Driftwood Forest is not a kind place for the uninitiated and foolish. These 5 years of rule have been plagued with rival agents hoping to plunder your land, Aquilia constantly provoking you into conflict, and roaming titanic beasts that call this place home. In opposition to these threats, you have trained your populace to be one with nature much like those that live in the Veiled Region. Though you can never hope to compare with Tamaris' Sentinels, you have succeeded in creating expert rangers.
- [ ] The Seekers - The major boon that the forest provides for your nation is its abnormal nature. Beneath the rest of Titanus there lie caves, minerals, and many more subterranean elements, but underneath the forest is nothing except endless pathways where no natural light can shine. Your people complain about being watched when down there and you always get the feeling that.."your light is being snuffed out" for lack of better words. Still, you can't deny the potential of the underworld, for it has provided strange devices and items before. Nothing major or groundbreaking, but your people did find some hollow metal pipes before.
Very interesting to see this continued. It is certainly a well-written setting. I look forward to seeing how it develops and hope that you more elements of Godbound as the story progresses.
[X] Plan Ct613hulu
[X] You agreed with Nymeria's proposal. Similar to Hindrik's idea, a council consisting of you four will be installed; however, Nymeria stated that the rights of the commoners should be ensured and that promising individuals be allowed to hold specific positions in the government.
[X] Something extremely similar to Nymeria's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Nymeria, as such, you simply voted for her idea.
[X] You agreed with Vilhelm's proposition. The nation would ignore Grimlock's hostile activities and not engage with the Church of Elysium in any shape or form.
[X] You sided with Turiel. Either a member of the council will become the head of the Radiant Sunrise Sanctum, or a clergyman chosen by the Sanctum would be allowed to join the council. One way or the other the church would have an official role in the government of the Empire.
- [X] You honored the current procedures and tradition of the Sanctum thus allowing them to choose their own representative in the council, which would be either the head of the church or someone the temple is largely fond of.
[X] In the Ashenlands on the very outskirts of Titanus. Located in the deep south, beyond the lands of the Mad Count, and on the edge of the world, there is a land shrouded in ash and black fog. A realm inhospitable for most of the inhabitants of Titanus, for the ash is like shifting sand and liquid fire sprouts from the earth often. You're not sure why the Empress gave you this land to build upon since its nearly impossible to really do anything, but it does isolate you from the rest of the world.
- [X] The Scholars - Throughout your 5 years of governing the Ashenlands you've focused on studying the physical limitations and boons it has to offer, as a result, your people have developed both industrial techniques and mystic arts unique to them alone.
[X] You agreed with Nymeria's proposal. Similar to Hindrik's idea, a council consisting of you four will be installed; however, Nymeria stated that the rights of the commoners should be ensured and that promising individuals be allowed to hold specific positions in the government.
[X] Something extremely similar to Nymeria's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Nymeria, as such, you simply voted for her idea.
[X] You agreed with Vilhelm's proposition. The nation would ignore Grimlock's hostile activities and not engage with the Church of Elysium in any shape or form.
[X] You sided with Turiel. Either a member of the council will become the head of the Radiant Sunrise Sanctum, or a clergyman chosen by the Sanctum would be allowed to join the council. One way or the other the church would have an official role in the government of the Empire.
-[X] You honored the current procedures and tradition of the Sanctum thus allowing them to choose their own representative in the council, which would be either the head of the church or someone the temple is largely fond of.
[X] In the fields of Suchlaph to the East. Located just before the Stormlands, the fields of Suchlaph are great plains of endless grass that stretch on for miles in the shadows of the everlasting storm with a small pond resting in the center. The plains are highly fertile and very suitable for farming, plus there are numerous beasts grazing this emerald land.
-[X] The Farmers - Only a fool is incapable of acknowledging the wealth that this land has to offer. Thankfully you are no fool (you think). Over the 5 years, you have invested heavily in the agricultural development of the nation transforming your people into ample farm workers that are used to blazing sun and grueling work.
[X] You agreed with Nymeria's proposal. Similar to Hindrik's idea, a council consisting of you four will be installed; however, Nymeria stated that the rights of the commoners should be ensured and that promising individuals be allowed to hold specific positions in the government.
[X] Something extremely similar to Nymeria's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Nymeria, as such, you simply voted for her idea.
[X] You agreed with Vilhelm's proposition. The nation would ignore Grimlock's hostile activities and not engage with the Church of Elysium in any shape or form.
[X] You sided with Turiel. Either a member of the council will become the head of the Radiant Sunrise Sanctum, or a clergyman chosen by the Sanctum would be allowed to join the council. One way or the other the church would have an official role in the government of the Empire.
-[X] You honored the current procedures and tradition of the Sanctum thus allowing them to choose their own representative in the council, which would be either the head of the church or someone the temple is largely fond of.
[X] In the fields of Suchlaph to the East. Located just before the Stormlands, the fields of Suchlaph are great plains of endless grass that stretch on for miles in the shadows of the everlasting storm with a small pond resting in the center. The plains are highly fertile and very suitable for farming, plus there are numerous beasts grazing this emerald land.
-[X] The Farmers - Only a fool is incapable of acknowledging the wealth that this land has to offer. Thankfully you are no fool (you think). Over the 5 years, you have invested heavily in the agricultural development of the nation transforming your people into ample farm workers that are used to blazing sun and grueling work.
Very interesting to see this continued. It is certainly a well-written setting. I look forward to seeing how it develops and hope that you more elements of Godbound as the story progresses.
He has actually been working on this all that time. It is just a combination of him not being in the mood for writing and wanting to flesh so much out that made it take so long.
Be glad we didn't go independent, otherwise it would have taken longer.
I wonder how other nations sees us. The last of remnants of a forgotten era or an obstacle to their rise to power either way prepare to fight with everything you have for this is fantasy three kingdoms era or sengoku jidai on a global scale.
[X] You agreed with Nymeria's proposal. Similar to Hindrik's idea, a council consisting of you four will be installed; however, Nymeria stated that the rights of the commoners should be ensured and that promising individuals be allowed to hold specific positions in the government.
[X] Something extremely similar to Nymeria's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Nymeria, as such, you simply voted for her idea.
[X] You agreed with Vilhelm's proposition. The nation would ignore Grimlock's hostile activities and not engage with the Church of Elysium in any shape or form.
[X] You sided with Turiel. Either a member of the council will become the head of the Radiant Sunrise Sanctum, or a clergyman chosen by the Sanctum would be allowed to join the council. One way or the other the church would have an official role in the government of the Empire.
-[X] You honored the current procedures and tradition of the Sanctum thus allowing them to choose their own representative in the council, which would be either the head of the church or someone the temple is largely fond of.
[X] In the fields of Suchlaph to the East. Located just before the Stormlands, the fields of Suchlaph are great plains of endless grass that stretch on for miles in the shadows of the everlasting storm with a small pond resting in the center. The plains are highly fertile and very suitable for farming, plus there are numerous beasts grazing this emerald land.
-[X] The Farmers - Only a fool is incapable of acknowledging the wealth that this land has to offer. Thankfully you are no fool (you think). Over the 5 years, you have invested heavily in the agricultural development of the nation transforming your people into ample farm workers that are used to blazing sun and grueling work.
[x] You agreed with Nymeria's proposal. Similar to Hindrik's idea, a council consisting of you four will be installed; however, Nymeria stated that the rights of the commoners should be ensured and that promising individuals be allowed to hold specific positions in the government.
[x] Something extremely similar to Nymeria's idea. Your idea was very similar to the one proposed by Nymeria, as such, you simply voted for her idea.
[x] You agreed with Vilhelm's proposition. The nation would ignore Grimlock's hostile activities and not engage with the Church of Elysium in any shape or form.
[x] You sided with Turiel. Either a member of the council will become the head of the Radiant Sunrise Sanctum, or a clergyman chosen by the Sanctum would be allowed to join the council. One way or the other the church would have an official role in the government of the Empire.
- [x] You honored the current procedures and tradition of the Sanctum thus allowing them to choose their own representative in the council, which would be either the head of the church or someone the temple is largely fond of.
[x] At the Gate of Netzah in the North. Before the twisted and forsaken lands of the Dread Peninsula there lies a range of crooked mountains that divides the world from the Northern waste. Your nation lies in the taigas below Netzah's indifferent gaze and along his broken body. The North provides you solitude as you contain the undead scourge, and Netzah provides fortifications and wealth.
- [x] The Guardians - The north has always been a refuge for the vagabonds and wanderers that have no place to call home. Your nation accepts all who seek redemption or a second chance at life causing your land to be filled with people from all walks of life. This connection between your people has caused most prejudices to disappear and their cultures to blend together.
