INTRIGUE IN COURT
REBOOTED
Inspired by Crusader Kings 2's roleplaying elements
On the continent of Myyr lies the Empire of Vexia, a massive nation that has been undefeated for a millennium. The Empire was built on the backs of slaves and on the backs of the conquered, who were shepherded with an iron rod by the Great Kings of the past. The Empire was technologically superior to all the nations surrounding it, producing philosophers and military geniuses throughout the ages. Their military might was unchallenged and was widely famed across Myyr, being subject to legend. Their economy was prosperous due to the rich and abundant resources located within the confines of the Empire.
However, as with any nation, the Empire is not immune to hardship.
When Emperor Jakar III Vixis inherited the throne in the year 1003 IY (Imperial Year), he faced rebellion sprouting up from among his vassals, disease scourging every corner of the land, and a failing economy. In the Northern Territories, the formidable barbarians raid and pillage the land without fear from the Golden Falcon, the emperor's elite tasked with internal security. To the east, the nomadic warrior people of the Khuphate are at war with the Empire, so far having success in fighting the Empire's forces. Armed with superior cavalry tactics and an abundance of soldiers, they wage total war in the Eastern Front, seeking access into unprotected Empire territory. To the south, in the Great Desert, the cunning Southern Kingdoms plot the demise of the Empire, patiently in wait. Despite efforts from the Empire's spies, the full extent of their plans remain a mystery. In the mainland, the roads are crawling with robbers, the judicial system is full of corruption, and the commonfolk secretly curse the nobility class.
With Emperor Jakar's untimely death, the burdens fall upon Brandon Vixis, the heir to the throne and newcomer to the political landscape. Upon his coronation in the year 1049 IY, he summons courtiers and administrators from across the realm to occupy his court in Windstard, the capital of Vexia, to prevent the Empire from collapse. Unfortunately for Brandon, who is ill-versed in the intrigue of politics and the hearts of those yearning for power, he is ill-prepared for what these courtiers with new-found power will do to fulfill their ambition. What may they have in store for the new Emperor? Will they seek the Empire itself? Will they obey the Emperor's will and attempt to guide Vexia to a new Golden Age?
Regardless, this makes for an epic tale of intrigue.
However, as with any nation, the Empire is not immune to hardship.
When Emperor Jakar III Vixis inherited the throne in the year 1003 IY (Imperial Year), he faced rebellion sprouting up from among his vassals, disease scourging every corner of the land, and a failing economy. In the Northern Territories, the formidable barbarians raid and pillage the land without fear from the Golden Falcon, the emperor's elite tasked with internal security. To the east, the nomadic warrior people of the Khuphate are at war with the Empire, so far having success in fighting the Empire's forces. Armed with superior cavalry tactics and an abundance of soldiers, they wage total war in the Eastern Front, seeking access into unprotected Empire territory. To the south, in the Great Desert, the cunning Southern Kingdoms plot the demise of the Empire, patiently in wait. Despite efforts from the Empire's spies, the full extent of their plans remain a mystery. In the mainland, the roads are crawling with robbers, the judicial system is full of corruption, and the commonfolk secretly curse the nobility class.
With Emperor Jakar's untimely death, the burdens fall upon Brandon Vixis, the heir to the throne and newcomer to the political landscape. Upon his coronation in the year 1049 IY, he summons courtiers and administrators from across the realm to occupy his court in Windstard, the capital of Vexia, to prevent the Empire from collapse. Unfortunately for Brandon, who is ill-versed in the intrigue of politics and the hearts of those yearning for power, he is ill-prepared for what these courtiers with new-found power will do to fulfill their ambition. What may they have in store for the new Emperor? Will they seek the Empire itself? Will they obey the Emperor's will and attempt to guide Vexia to a new Golden Age?
Regardless, this makes for an epic tale of intrigue.
What is this?
In this character-based roleplay, you are a member of the fictional Emperor Brandon Vixis' royal court, in a period similar to the Late Medieval and Early Renaissance eras. Whether you are a renown councilor seated at the round table, a rich knight seeking glory, a servant, a bodyguard to the Emperor, or a courtier sent against your will to attend his court, you play a role in the functionality of his court, and in the outcome of the Vexian Empire. You will do as you please, kill those who try to remove you from the Emperor's graces, blackmail to gain advantages, or plot to destroy the Empire, you do as you will. Ambition is the one thing that is deeply rooted in the court, and many deaths have resulted because of squabbling nobles seeking more power. Enemies lurk everywhere, in the light and the dark; no man or woman can be trusted in this deep web of politics. Your actions will determine the future of this story, and can certainly affect others.
Character locations are not limited to the court alone, and note that you are able to travel away from the royal court so long as in-character circumstances permit it.
Death comes for all of us, and it can come to your character sooner if you fail to consider the consequences. In the event your character does perish, however, you will be able to continue as a different character should you choose to do so.
Please note that there is no strict lore in this roleplay. The addition into the overall lore of the story is certainly welcome so long as it follows the very basic lore that has been laid out in the content of this OOC. You lot are the authors of this roleplay, please feel free to add to the lore.
(The addition of lore to the basic plot is primarily created by the imaginative authors of the story; should you feel at a loss due to the additions of lore, please ask for help in OOC, and we shall enlighten you.)
The bare basics have been laid out for those interested in participating. There may not be much lore to go off as of current, but the point is that you, as the author, build the world as you go along. You as the author fill in the gaps to make an interesting world and story. Now that the basics have been addressed— are you ready to enter the dark ages of the Vexian Empire?
1. I am the OP, what I decide is considered done.
2. NS rules always apply; PG-13.
3. Despite this being a fantasy roleplay, please do your best to be realistic in your posts for the sake of immersion.
4. Two characters that you've created can be used at any given time. Please don't go beyond two characters.
5. When you post in the IC (in-character), please don't post one-liners. A minimum of one paragraph is required.
6. Large changes in lore should be approved in OOC by the OP, minor ones should be acceptable unless stated otherwise by OP.
7. Please don't go AWOL while in the middle of roleplay for an extended period of time. While I do acknowledge there are circumstances that prevent people from posting for long periods of time, please do what you can to remain involved so that the story may proceed. I'm searching for those who are here for the long haul, so if you are a casual roleplayer who drops in only once and never returns, this isn't the roleplay for you.
8. Metagaming is prohibited. All actions taken in the story will have consequences, please take that into consideration.
9. Respect other authors in the OOC; Keep OOC in OOC.
2. NS rules always apply; PG-13.
3. Despite this being a fantasy roleplay, please do your best to be realistic in your posts for the sake of immersion.
4. Two characters that you've created can be used at any given time. Please don't go beyond two characters.
5. When you post in the IC (in-character), please don't post one-liners. A minimum of one paragraph is required.
6. Large changes in lore should be approved in OOC by the OP, minor ones should be acceptable unless stated otherwise by OP.
7. Please don't go AWOL while in the middle of roleplay for an extended period of time. While I do acknowledge there are circumstances that prevent people from posting for long periods of time, please do what you can to remain involved so that the story may proceed. I'm searching for those who are here for the long haul, so if you are a casual roleplayer who drops in only once and never returns, this isn't the roleplay for you.
8. Metagaming is prohibited. All actions taken in the story will have consequences, please take that into consideration.
9. Respect other authors in the OOC; Keep OOC in OOC.
Due to lack of space, additional locations have been posted in the roster below.
Below are the locations available for travel in the Empire.
Locations in the EMPIRE
Windstard
The Empire started with humble beginnings, and originates in the capital city of Windstard, located in a mountainous region in the deep west, along the western coast. The city is arguably the largest in the world, with a population of roughly 6.3 million inhabitants both inside and outside the sturdy walls. Windstard is famous for hosting the Vexian Court in the Blue Palace, and for being the capital of the Empire. Poverty runs deep among the inhabitants of the city, both inside and on the outskirts; it is not recommended for members of the court to explore the city without an escort. The city serves as a main hub for land based trade and sea trade; the markets of the city are usually clogged with merchants and people buying their wares. The city is too clogged with internal affairs to worry about receptions. City fortifications and the city streets are heavily guarded by the Golden Falcon.
Bargainton
The large village of Bargainton lies just past the mountain pass leading to Windstard, on the main road. In order to arrive in Windstard through land, one must travel through the village. It receives most people warmly, and makes a profit through hosting travelers heading to Windstard. Though the streets are warm in the day, Bargainton reveals its sinister life at night; thieving is common at night, man and woman sneak out to backrooms for privacy, and murder is common among traveling richfolk. Bargainton is lightly guarded by the Royal Army, but as it is, security of the village is not priority, but the security of the large bank hosted by the village is of priority to the few guards stationed in the village. Inns dot the village, as well as pubs. Bargainton's population has been surveyed to have 164,365 populace.
Eastern Front/Territories
Vexia's military forces are established along the diminishing eastern front, struggling to prevail against the ruthless Khuphate. The front is dangerous for any common citizens of the Empire; skirmishes are common between the Empire and the Khuphates. Fortresses and outposts dot the front, and the very essence of law is hardly present among the troops. Troops of the Royal Army usually visit the villages on the front to cause mischief. Pillaged villages dot the area, with non-affected villages cowering with fear over the possibility that they may be the next to hear the sound of thunderous hooves at their doorstep. The people of the eastern front are likely to warily welcome citizens of the Empire. The military roughly estimates that over 300,000 non-military citizens still inhabit the Eastern Front.
The Hordelands
"Hordelands" is an euphemism coined to describe geographical areas inhabited by the Blue Horde within the Empire. It's not an area in a fixed sense, as the Blue Horde rarely acknowledges boundaries of imperial provinces or other administrative units, with their nomads freely moving across vast grasslands of the frontier; ancient treaties signed by Khan Mongke with the ancestors of the current Emperor Brandon, and the fact that historically the tribes forming the Blue Horde have been extremely loyal to the crown, often shedding their own blood for it, had cemented autonomous status of the steppe exiles to the point where, outside of paying their tax in form of military service, members of the Blue Horde rarely concern themselves with Imperial Laws, governing themselves autonomously.
The territory partially overlaps with Aresaria and some other imperial provinces. Presence of the Blue Horde at times causes disputes between agricultural native population and nomadic herders, whose flocks tend to enroach on fields of the native Vexians. Despite that discomfort, native Vexians do not always regret presence of the Blue Horde, as said steppe nation is a sworn enemy of the Khuphate, and likely the first response in case of a raid or invasion.
Just outside the borders of Duchy of Aresaria lies the Kyzyl-Korum, a semi-permament settlement that forms the capital of the Blue Horde. Here, Chelubey Khan resides, presiding over 12 tribes that form the Blue Horde. Kyzyl-Korum is also the center of religious activity of the tribes, with the sacred ark being kept in a tent there. Chelubey rules from a massive yurt, which also acts as a gathering place for the two main administrative units of the Blue Horde - the Kurultai (assembly of nobility from tribes forming the Blue Horde) and diwan (Khan's advisory council). Some important members of the diwan are:
- Kalga - bey: the head of Khan's government and 2nd in command of the army. Usually commands right wing of the horde's forces during a campaign. Currently, the position is held by Jamukha a cousin and trusted friend of Chelubey.
- Tayiji: commander of the left wing of the army, and head of the Kurultai.
In reality however, power of the Khan is severely restrained by the Kurultai, where the Khan is merely "first among equals". Khan's main tasks concern leading the Blue Horde's military forces
Individual tribes are ruled by their beys, which is a title equivalent of "lord". By the ancient treaties, they are given the same rights as imperial barons. Below the beys are the tribal nobles - the ulans. Years of existence within the Empire have caused most of Blue Horde ulans to be bi-lingual, and have at least basic knowledge of Vexian culture and customs. Often, the ulans adopt elements of Vexian traditions of knighthood, albeit in their own steppe context. Even sacred texts of the Religion of Heaven are now in Vexian.
It's estimated that the total force of the Blue Horde can total 48 000 warriors organized in four toumans (each former from members of three tribes), but due to need to protect borders from the Khupate rarely that many are mobilized on campaigns that do not concern the Eastern Frontier. Aside from the regular forces, there is also a formation called keshig which serves as Chelubey's own guard - it's formations are usually filled with young nobles who see service as a stepping stones to further career within the Horde's ranks.
Northern Territories
The northern territories of the Empire are loosely collected into villages, and small military outposts. The territories are considered to be the most dangerous for commoners, and has resulted in several migrations to the south, where military coverage is decent. The trade of fur is abundant in the territories, and many depend on trade to support themselves; these men and women are a hardy people, and have chosen to remain despite the raids. A warm reception is not likely due to the Empire's stance on the barbaric threat. Non-government officials estimate the populace to be dwindling to an estimate of 70,000.
Whitehold
One of the ancient keeps in the Northern Territories, ordered by Emperor Aeors himself. The keep sits in a valley, alongside the Aureate River. Constructed almost a thousand years ago, Whitehold has remained the gateway to what is seen as the interior of the Empire. North of the keep is a smattering of villages, some military outposts, and those who would live beyond the Emperor’s grasp. South of Whitehold is the Emperor’s Highway, which leads further south and eventually to Windstard. The keep, while important culturally to the loyalists in the Northern Territories, is not economically important or a place of trade. The keep and the village that surround it are home to only a few thousand, with the more-southern cities acting as trade hubs. The keep itself has one tall tower made of white granite, while two others of smaller size that have been built over the years. There are two walls. The first and oldest is the original wall ordered by Emperor Aeors himself, but has mostly fallen into disuse over time. Beyond that is a newer, more modern wall that surrounds both the keep and the village that has grown around it.
Aresaria
Aresaria is a rugged land of rocky hills, a border region between the Khupate and the Empire, conquered by the Emperor Ares during his easterly campaign. The area is inhabited both by local nomads and by Imperial homesteaders. There are no large population centres to speak of, and the local garrison forts provide centres for economic activity. Banditry is common, and encouraged by Khupate raiders slipping past the border and into the fertile hinterlands of Imperial control. Farms are often miles apart, and farmers are left to protect their own herds of sheep, cattle and horses. Having been under military control for most of its time under the Empire, it has recently been made into an official duchy in order for Marius Mariensis to have a title upon his assumption of the marshallship.
Skaria
A harsh and barren land, Skaria is sparse in population and wealth. Every hill and valley has a lord and they often squabble, even over the most minor of issues. Though castles and villages are widespread, Skaria lacks any significant towns, cities or urban areas, though its principal settlement is Moormoln.
Voy
A pleasant land of plains, Voy is a small but productive realm famed for its wines and honey. It is a country of rolling meadows, luxurious estates, and charming villages. Its principal settlement is Adelaire.
The Knoll
The southern borderland of the Empire, an arid place touching upon the Great Desert. It is a realm of marcher lords operating an old line of fortifications.
Newgarden
An Oasis within the desert of the Knoll. Newgarden was constructed around and upon the older Wyrhold. Sylas the ancient stout keep expanded into its present form after finding it severely lacking. It is a part of Wyr, The Knoll, and the Empire.
Wyr
Wyr is considered to be the most inhospitable part of the Knoll. Life, and settlements, exist scattered among the all too sparse oases. The people are often considered unfriendly and alien, sharing more in common with their kin to the south than the rest of the Empire. It is a part of The Knoll, and of the Empire.
Ye-ayn
West-northwest of Windstard, the small kingdom of Ye-ayn inhabits a large plateau and access to the kingdom is controlled at a small number of defensible natural passes. The Kingdom’s capital city is Hehduke and the kingdom is divided into eight counties. Goats, sheep and poultry are the kingdom’s principal livestock. Wheat, barley, corn and flax are the principal crops. There are forests, some small mines and quarries.
In an effort to cement a lasting peace, a marriage was arranged between King Luell Fawr and Lady Joyanna, the sister of Emperor Jakar III. However, since then, politics have strained the relationship between the royal houses.
Jawahra
The city of Jawahra sits alongside the Birikimci River, or Saver River, running through an arid valley bordering the blazing Great Desert, giving life to the inhabitants of the land and life to the vegetation grown alongside the banks of the river. The valley is rich in gemstone deposits, which the Fadriqa dynasty has taken advantage of for generations to ensure the prosperity of their sheikdom. Using this wealth, they constructed large fortified walls around the city, made of white stone which rebounds the sun's light, giving it the name Jawahra, or Gemstone.
Within the city is the Fadriqa Palace, the birthplace of the Legendary Hero Sôrd who fought against the Great King Norman Vixis at the Battle of the Elephant's Trunk, which proved to be a turning point in the war. He proved to be an excellent commander and duelist, becoming a legend among men, said to be able to take on entire armies with ease. After the war, after seeing plight of the people recovering from the costly war, pledged to construct a haven of peace. He decided to begin to begin construction of this so-called haven of peace at his birth place. He went on to form the Sheikdom of Eastmoor, founding it at a point along a river where Jawahra now sits. Sôrd eventually died, being laid at the newly constructed Vault of Efsanes, or the Vault of Legends, which remains to this day.
Along Jawahra's regional borders lies the Glistening Valley, a valley that extracts the rarest of gemstones. Although the Glistening Valley had once been controlled privately by the merchant families, under the Hân Ishraq, control of the Glistening Valley has been placed under his direct control. The valley is littered with mines digging into the earth, with Slave Masters overseeing the operation. Slaves are permitted to work for wage and dwell in villages designated for them, though they are forbidden from leaving the Glistening Valley unless permitted by direct order from the Slave Masters, who have been placed under the jurisdiction of the Coordinators who report to the Hân directly. The perimeter of the Glistening Valley is heavily patrolled by Eastmoor soldiers as per order of the Hân to deter thieves and raiding parties.
Jawahra is under the jurisdiction of the Empire.
Locations in the KHUPHATE
Moving Flood
The Khuliph is the largest nomadic capital ever known to man; it has been estimated that it hosts a population of over a million inhabitants, and has been observed to remain in one location for about two months. The organized but wild people bustle in the muddy streets tending to their affairs. The outskirts of the camp are guarded by patrols of horsemen, wielding both swords and bows, and are highly suspicious of any daring to enter the camp without some sort of eastern background. Fighting in the streets is common to occur, and murder is often overlooked by bystanders. Not much else is known about the city, its defenses, or about the ruling Khuphate family. It receives citizens of the Empire with the sword.
Locations in the SOUTHERN KINGDOMS
Sha'beesh
The city of Sha'beesh is the capital of the largest Southern Kingdom as of present, built on top of a plentiful oasis. The culture is rich and diverse, with many traditions that the Empire views with confusion and disgust. The city is located in the center of a large desert, with few water sources available outside the walls of the city. Camels travel along the trade route to other parts of the kingdoms, and into the Empire; the markets are bustling with trade, and the streets are well-maintained. The city trades diamonds and gemstones, and makes a large profit when trading with foreigners. A large palace rises above the city, and hosts the Sunt'eesh Dynasty. Reception of Empire inhabitants is insulting. The overall population has been estimated by Empire officials to be 2.4 million inhabitants.
Below are the locations available for travel in the Empire.
Locations in the EMPIRE
Windstard
The Empire started with humble beginnings, and originates in the capital city of Windstard, located in a mountainous region in the deep west, along the western coast. The city is arguably the largest in the world, with a population of roughly 6.3 million inhabitants both inside and outside the sturdy walls. Windstard is famous for hosting the Vexian Court in the Blue Palace, and for being the capital of the Empire. Poverty runs deep among the inhabitants of the city, both inside and on the outskirts; it is not recommended for members of the court to explore the city without an escort. The city serves as a main hub for land based trade and sea trade; the markets of the city are usually clogged with merchants and people buying their wares. The city is too clogged with internal affairs to worry about receptions. City fortifications and the city streets are heavily guarded by the Golden Falcon.
Great Library
The Great Library is widely known for its gargantuan collection of books stored since the founding of the Vexian Empire. It is a place where learned individuals engage in heated debates, and where scholars peer through the endless books of knowledge. Copyists rush through the corridors, often spending lengths of time in the furthest corridors where the older manuscripts are stored. The Great Kings of the past placed high value in the library, spending vast amounts of time in constructing improvements and obtaining manuscripts from the far reaches of the known world. The library is restricted to the commonfolk and is constantly patrolled by the Golden Falcon.
The Great Library is widely known for its gargantuan collection of books stored since the founding of the Vexian Empire. It is a place where learned individuals engage in heated debates, and where scholars peer through the endless books of knowledge. Copyists rush through the corridors, often spending lengths of time in the furthest corridors where the older manuscripts are stored. The Great Kings of the past placed high value in the library, spending vast amounts of time in constructing improvements and obtaining manuscripts from the far reaches of the known world. The library is restricted to the commonfolk and is constantly patrolled by the Golden Falcon.
The Hippodrome of Windstard (Corino Circus)
The Hippodrome of Windstard is a large circus and sporting arena designed for chariot racing in the imperial capital of Windstard. The Hippodrome is a gift from Prince Corineus Corino to the citizens of Windstard on the occasion of his betrothal to Princess Talia Vixis in 1029, and its official name is Corino Circus. Construction of the massive building began the year thereafter and has yet to be fully completed though the hippodrome began hosting occasional races in 1046. The Hippodrome is four hundred and fifty meters long and one hundred and thirty meters wide and when the structure is fully completed it will be able to seat a hundred thousand spectators.
The race-track is U-shaped and the Imperial Lodge is located at the eastern end of the track where races finish. The Imperial Lodge can be accessed directly from the Corino family palace known as the Golden House through a passage which only the Corino family and their guests can use. The Hippodrome Boxes, which has four statues of horses in gilded copper, donated by Prince Corineus on the occasion of the birth of Prince Corineus the Younger, on top, stand at the northern end; and the covered part of the tribune for the more well of citizens stand at the southern end. Atop the Imperial Lodge stands a grand gilded copper statue of a charioteer racing a chariot pulled by four horses. The tracks of the hippodrome is lined with statues of horses and famous charioteers, and a great variety of other statues and art works donated by Prince Corineus on various occasions of his career.
When in 1046 the emperor opened the very first chariot race (and supposedly lost a small fortune to his minister Prince Corineus) attendance was free and to this day only those seated under the covered tribune has to pay more than a token fee, the cost of the maintenance of the hippodrome being largely borne by the Corino family, who however take a small bet fare on all bets not privately made.
Four teams compete in the hippodrome according to the rules of the Hwenesian charioteering of Prince Corineus's homeland. The teams are the Greens, Blues, Reds and Whites. At the birth of their second child Prince Corineus gave his wife Princess Talia ownership of the Greens as a gift. After the grand opening of 1046 (when Emperor Jakar lost a fortune betting on the Blues), Prince Corineus gave the emperor that team. Since the Corino family has cheered for the Greens while the emperor has cheered for the Blues and both has been known to spend vast sums providing their respective teams with the finest horses and best charioteers the empire can muster.
While there are a number of different types of races the most popular consists of an eight chariot race, in which each team fields two chariots pulled by four horses. These races can be rather crowded and has high rates of injury and death for both charioteers and horses which makes them extremely popular with the common folk. Among some members of the upper classes competitions of two teams of one chariot at a time (sometimes pulled only by two horses) are however considered more enjoyable.
Both Emperor Jakar and Princess Talia are excited fans of the races and has engaged in a not so friendly rivalry with one another with both eager to see their own teams triumph. This goes far beyond simply spending exorbitant amounts of money to provide their respective teams with the best horses, charioteers and trainers. Charioteers from either the Green or Blues are regularly found drugged in shady inns and taverns the day before an important race, stallions mysteriously find their way into stalls containing mares in heat right ahead of races, chariots turn out to be lacking equipment, a trainer ends up being held hostage by a band of thugs only to be unceremoniously released after a race. In these shady games, always a crowd favorite, emperor Jakar III is no match for his daughter's wiles. With sixty three victories to the Greens and fifty one for the Blues the Greens is the dominant team and on the great race days when Princess Talia takes to the Imperial Lodge she is greeted by fifty thousand voices in unison shouting for her team, and sometimes for her personally. Annoyed at his inability to match his daughter's talent for subterfuge emperor Jakar in the last year of his life began to take more drastic and violent actions against the Greens resulting in a few untimely deaths of horses and even men. This however did not manage to unseat the Greens as the crowd favorite and most winning team. The Reds and Whites, lacking such lofty patrons, have notched far fewer wins, and often wins only when the Princess and the Emperor has both managed to sabotage the other's teams. The Reds have twenty one wins and the Whites eighteen.
The Hippodrome of Windstard is a large circus and sporting arena designed for chariot racing in the imperial capital of Windstard. The Hippodrome is a gift from Prince Corineus Corino to the citizens of Windstard on the occasion of his betrothal to Princess Talia Vixis in 1029, and its official name is Corino Circus. Construction of the massive building began the year thereafter and has yet to be fully completed though the hippodrome began hosting occasional races in 1046. The Hippodrome is four hundred and fifty meters long and one hundred and thirty meters wide and when the structure is fully completed it will be able to seat a hundred thousand spectators.
The race-track is U-shaped and the Imperial Lodge is located at the eastern end of the track where races finish. The Imperial Lodge can be accessed directly from the Corino family palace known as the Golden House through a passage which only the Corino family and their guests can use. The Hippodrome Boxes, which has four statues of horses in gilded copper, donated by Prince Corineus on the occasion of the birth of Prince Corineus the Younger, on top, stand at the northern end; and the covered part of the tribune for the more well of citizens stand at the southern end. Atop the Imperial Lodge stands a grand gilded copper statue of a charioteer racing a chariot pulled by four horses. The tracks of the hippodrome is lined with statues of horses and famous charioteers, and a great variety of other statues and art works donated by Prince Corineus on various occasions of his career.
When in 1046 the emperor opened the very first chariot race (and supposedly lost a small fortune to his minister Prince Corineus) attendance was free and to this day only those seated under the covered tribune has to pay more than a token fee, the cost of the maintenance of the hippodrome being largely borne by the Corino family, who however take a small bet fare on all bets not privately made.
Four teams compete in the hippodrome according to the rules of the Hwenesian charioteering of Prince Corineus's homeland. The teams are the Greens, Blues, Reds and Whites. At the birth of their second child Prince Corineus gave his wife Princess Talia ownership of the Greens as a gift. After the grand opening of 1046 (when Emperor Jakar lost a fortune betting on the Blues), Prince Corineus gave the emperor that team. Since the Corino family has cheered for the Greens while the emperor has cheered for the Blues and both has been known to spend vast sums providing their respective teams with the finest horses and best charioteers the empire can muster.
While there are a number of different types of races the most popular consists of an eight chariot race, in which each team fields two chariots pulled by four horses. These races can be rather crowded and has high rates of injury and death for both charioteers and horses which makes them extremely popular with the common folk. Among some members of the upper classes competitions of two teams of one chariot at a time (sometimes pulled only by two horses) are however considered more enjoyable.
Both Emperor Jakar and Princess Talia are excited fans of the races and has engaged in a not so friendly rivalry with one another with both eager to see their own teams triumph. This goes far beyond simply spending exorbitant amounts of money to provide their respective teams with the best horses, charioteers and trainers. Charioteers from either the Green or Blues are regularly found drugged in shady inns and taverns the day before an important race, stallions mysteriously find their way into stalls containing mares in heat right ahead of races, chariots turn out to be lacking equipment, a trainer ends up being held hostage by a band of thugs only to be unceremoniously released after a race. In these shady games, always a crowd favorite, emperor Jakar III is no match for his daughter's wiles. With sixty three victories to the Greens and fifty one for the Blues the Greens is the dominant team and on the great race days when Princess Talia takes to the Imperial Lodge she is greeted by fifty thousand voices in unison shouting for her team, and sometimes for her personally. Annoyed at his inability to match his daughter's talent for subterfuge emperor Jakar in the last year of his life began to take more drastic and violent actions against the Greens resulting in a few untimely deaths of horses and even men. This however did not manage to unseat the Greens as the crowd favorite and most winning team. The Reds and Whites, lacking such lofty patrons, have notched far fewer wins, and often wins only when the Princess and the Emperor has both managed to sabotage the other's teams. The Reds have twenty one wins and the Whites eighteen.
The Golden House
The Corino family has long maintained a grand residence in the city of Windstard where the Corino princes can reside and entertain guests when they are in the capital. When Prince Corineus Corino married Princess Talia Vixis however he felt that his old family residence might strike his bride as a tad modest and so he began construction of a vast palatial residence to serve as the primary home of him and his wife. Buying up properties adjacent to his residence and either tearing them down or adding them to his mansion. The palace complex design is modeled on that of a military fort being having a square shape. In addition to vast and luxurious living quarters for the Corino family, and accommodations for a small army of slaves, servants and guards, it also houses a temple and a mausoleum for the family. From the palace there is a direct access to the adjacent hippodrome, and in fact from two residential towers in the palace it is possible to observe races without ever stepping foot onto the hippodrome benches. Enclosed within the palace is a large leisure garden. Despite being perhaps the grandest private home in the palace Princess Talia has spent little time in the palace her husband built for her, preferring her apartments in the Blue Palace.
The Corino family has long maintained a grand residence in the city of Windstard where the Corino princes can reside and entertain guests when they are in the capital. When Prince Corineus Corino married Princess Talia Vixis however he felt that his old family residence might strike his bride as a tad modest and so he began construction of a vast palatial residence to serve as the primary home of him and his wife. Buying up properties adjacent to his residence and either tearing them down or adding them to his mansion. The palace complex design is modeled on that of a military fort being having a square shape. In addition to vast and luxurious living quarters for the Corino family, and accommodations for a small army of slaves, servants and guards, it also houses a temple and a mausoleum for the family. From the palace there is a direct access to the adjacent hippodrome, and in fact from two residential towers in the palace it is possible to observe races without ever stepping foot onto the hippodrome benches. Enclosed within the palace is a large leisure garden. Despite being perhaps the grandest private home in the palace Princess Talia has spent little time in the palace her husband built for her, preferring her apartments in the Blue Palace.
Circus Boucecorin (Corino Bullring)
Circus Boucecorin is the largest and most luxurious bull ring in Windstard. It was built by Prince Corineus Corino, an enthusiastic bullfighting aficionado on the occasion of the birth of his third child by his wife Princess Talia Vixis, as a gift to the city of Windstard. Construction began in 1035 and was completed in 1046 in record time. The building is made of a combination of stone (and concrete) and timber and can hold 12,000 spectators.
Bullfighting takes place in the Rás style of Tauromachy. While this may mean little to the people of Windstard who had little experience with bullfighting before Prince Corineus bequeathed them a circus it is considered an important religious rite among the Rasenna. A number of different bullfights are held but the most important is one in which a mounted lancer fights the bull. As bullfighting, unlike chariot racing, is not (yet) considered a very prestigious sport the Circus Boucecorin is not located in the centre of the imperial capital but in the slums, where it is by far the most grand building. This has had the added advantage of allowing Prince Corineus to arrange bull runs through the back alleys of the city during the opening of the bullfighting season. Attendance at the bullring is free for all citizens and the Corino family charge a small bet fare for the privilege. Though the Circus Boucecorin is much less famous than the Hippodrome of Windstard Prince Corineus is known to attend the bullring at least three times for everyone he attends the Hippodrome even though he lives just next door from the hippodrome and has a private entrance. Princess Talia has never attended a bullfight.
Circus Boucecorin is the largest and most luxurious bull ring in Windstard. It was built by Prince Corineus Corino, an enthusiastic bullfighting aficionado on the occasion of the birth of his third child by his wife Princess Talia Vixis, as a gift to the city of Windstard. Construction began in 1035 and was completed in 1046 in record time. The building is made of a combination of stone (and concrete) and timber and can hold 12,000 spectators.
Bullfighting takes place in the Rás style of Tauromachy. While this may mean little to the people of Windstard who had little experience with bullfighting before Prince Corineus bequeathed them a circus it is considered an important religious rite among the Rasenna. A number of different bullfights are held but the most important is one in which a mounted lancer fights the bull. As bullfighting, unlike chariot racing, is not (yet) considered a very prestigious sport the Circus Boucecorin is not located in the centre of the imperial capital but in the slums, where it is by far the most grand building. This has had the added advantage of allowing Prince Corineus to arrange bull runs through the back alleys of the city during the opening of the bullfighting season. Attendance at the bullring is free for all citizens and the Corino family charge a small bet fare for the privilege. Though the Circus Boucecorin is much less famous than the Hippodrome of Windstard Prince Corineus is known to attend the bullring at least three times for everyone he attends the Hippodrome even though he lives just next door from the hippodrome and has a private entrance. Princess Talia has never attended a bullfight.
The Glass Bowl Amphitheater
The name of the amphitheater refers to the half dome that rises behind the theater stage. The half dome is constructed of bricks of bluish glass that have been strongly and cunningly fused together. The bowl shape directs the sound from the stage outward toward the seven hundred seat amphitheater audience. The front two rows of the amphitheater are arranged in boxes, the most center box of eight seats being called "The Imperial Box", to which the Emperor and seven others have an open invitation to watch any and all of the amphitheater performances for free. Anyone can purchase tickets in The Imperial Box, with the understanding that if the Emperor decides to attend that they will lose their seats, but their money will be refunded.
A cloth shade can be hung above the amphitheater to provide shade when desired and there are ample oil lamps to illuminate it at night.
Past performances at the Glass Bowl have included: boxing matches, civic debates, instrumental and vocal music, plays and trained animal acts.
It is not common knowledge, but the Glass Bowl is owned and operated by agents of the Kingdom of Ye-ayn.
The name of the amphitheater refers to the half dome that rises behind the theater stage. The half dome is constructed of bricks of bluish glass that have been strongly and cunningly fused together. The bowl shape directs the sound from the stage outward toward the seven hundred seat amphitheater audience. The front two rows of the amphitheater are arranged in boxes, the most center box of eight seats being called "The Imperial Box", to which the Emperor and seven others have an open invitation to watch any and all of the amphitheater performances for free. Anyone can purchase tickets in The Imperial Box, with the understanding that if the Emperor decides to attend that they will lose their seats, but their money will be refunded.
A cloth shade can be hung above the amphitheater to provide shade when desired and there are ample oil lamps to illuminate it at night.
Past performances at the Glass Bowl have included: boxing matches, civic debates, instrumental and vocal music, plays and trained animal acts.
It is not common knowledge, but the Glass Bowl is owned and operated by agents of the Kingdom of Ye-ayn.
Bargainton
The large village of Bargainton lies just past the mountain pass leading to Windstard, on the main road. In order to arrive in Windstard through land, one must travel through the village. It receives most people warmly, and makes a profit through hosting travelers heading to Windstard. Though the streets are warm in the day, Bargainton reveals its sinister life at night; thieving is common at night, man and woman sneak out to backrooms for privacy, and murder is common among traveling richfolk. Bargainton is lightly guarded by the Royal Army, but as it is, security of the village is not priority, but the security of the large bank hosted by the village is of priority to the few guards stationed in the village. Inns dot the village, as well as pubs. Bargainton's population has been surveyed to have 164,365 populace.
Eastern Front/Territories
Vexia's military forces are established along the diminishing eastern front, struggling to prevail against the ruthless Khuphate. The front is dangerous for any common citizens of the Empire; skirmishes are common between the Empire and the Khuphates. Fortresses and outposts dot the front, and the very essence of law is hardly present among the troops. Troops of the Royal Army usually visit the villages on the front to cause mischief. Pillaged villages dot the area, with non-affected villages cowering with fear over the possibility that they may be the next to hear the sound of thunderous hooves at their doorstep. The people of the eastern front are likely to warily welcome citizens of the Empire. The military roughly estimates that over 300,000 non-military citizens still inhabit the Eastern Front.
The Hordelands
"Hordelands" is an euphemism coined to describe geographical areas inhabited by the Blue Horde within the Empire. It's not an area in a fixed sense, as the Blue Horde rarely acknowledges boundaries of imperial provinces or other administrative units, with their nomads freely moving across vast grasslands of the frontier; ancient treaties signed by Khan Mongke with the ancestors of the current Emperor Brandon, and the fact that historically the tribes forming the Blue Horde have been extremely loyal to the crown, often shedding their own blood for it, had cemented autonomous status of the steppe exiles to the point where, outside of paying their tax in form of military service, members of the Blue Horde rarely concern themselves with Imperial Laws, governing themselves autonomously.
The territory partially overlaps with Aresaria and some other imperial provinces. Presence of the Blue Horde at times causes disputes between agricultural native population and nomadic herders, whose flocks tend to enroach on fields of the native Vexians. Despite that discomfort, native Vexians do not always regret presence of the Blue Horde, as said steppe nation is a sworn enemy of the Khuphate, and likely the first response in case of a raid or invasion.
Just outside the borders of Duchy of Aresaria lies the Kyzyl-Korum, a semi-permament settlement that forms the capital of the Blue Horde. Here, Chelubey Khan resides, presiding over 12 tribes that form the Blue Horde. Kyzyl-Korum is also the center of religious activity of the tribes, with the sacred ark being kept in a tent there. Chelubey rules from a massive yurt, which also acts as a gathering place for the two main administrative units of the Blue Horde - the Kurultai (assembly of nobility from tribes forming the Blue Horde) and diwan (Khan's advisory council). Some important members of the diwan are:
- Kalga - bey: the head of Khan's government and 2nd in command of the army. Usually commands right wing of the horde's forces during a campaign. Currently, the position is held by Jamukha a cousin and trusted friend of Chelubey.
- Tayiji: commander of the left wing of the army, and head of the Kurultai.
In reality however, power of the Khan is severely restrained by the Kurultai, where the Khan is merely "first among equals". Khan's main tasks concern leading the Blue Horde's military forces
Individual tribes are ruled by their beys, which is a title equivalent of "lord". By the ancient treaties, they are given the same rights as imperial barons. Below the beys are the tribal nobles - the ulans. Years of existence within the Empire have caused most of Blue Horde ulans to be bi-lingual, and have at least basic knowledge of Vexian culture and customs. Often, the ulans adopt elements of Vexian traditions of knighthood, albeit in their own steppe context. Even sacred texts of the Religion of Heaven are now in Vexian.
It's estimated that the total force of the Blue Horde can total 48 000 warriors organized in four toumans (each former from members of three tribes), but due to need to protect borders from the Khupate rarely that many are mobilized on campaigns that do not concern the Eastern Frontier. Aside from the regular forces, there is also a formation called keshig which serves as Chelubey's own guard - it's formations are usually filled with young nobles who see service as a stepping stones to further career within the Horde's ranks.
Northern Territories
The northern territories of the Empire are loosely collected into villages, and small military outposts. The territories are considered to be the most dangerous for commoners, and has resulted in several migrations to the south, where military coverage is decent. The trade of fur is abundant in the territories, and many depend on trade to support themselves; these men and women are a hardy people, and have chosen to remain despite the raids. A warm reception is not likely due to the Empire's stance on the barbaric threat. Non-government officials estimate the populace to be dwindling to an estimate of 70,000.
Whitehold
One of the ancient keeps in the Northern Territories, ordered by Emperor Aeors himself. The keep sits in a valley, alongside the Aureate River. Constructed almost a thousand years ago, Whitehold has remained the gateway to what is seen as the interior of the Empire. North of the keep is a smattering of villages, some military outposts, and those who would live beyond the Emperor’s grasp. South of Whitehold is the Emperor’s Highway, which leads further south and eventually to Windstard. The keep, while important culturally to the loyalists in the Northern Territories, is not economically important or a place of trade. The keep and the village that surround it are home to only a few thousand, with the more-southern cities acting as trade hubs. The keep itself has one tall tower made of white granite, while two others of smaller size that have been built over the years. There are two walls. The first and oldest is the original wall ordered by Emperor Aeors himself, but has mostly fallen into disuse over time. Beyond that is a newer, more modern wall that surrounds both the keep and the village that has grown around it.
Aresaria
Aresaria is a rugged land of rocky hills, a border region between the Khupate and the Empire, conquered by the Emperor Ares during his easterly campaign. The area is inhabited both by local nomads and by Imperial homesteaders. There are no large population centres to speak of, and the local garrison forts provide centres for economic activity. Banditry is common, and encouraged by Khupate raiders slipping past the border and into the fertile hinterlands of Imperial control. Farms are often miles apart, and farmers are left to protect their own herds of sheep, cattle and horses. Having been under military control for most of its time under the Empire, it has recently been made into an official duchy in order for Marius Mariensis to have a title upon his assumption of the marshallship.
Skaria
A harsh and barren land, Skaria is sparse in population and wealth. Every hill and valley has a lord and they often squabble, even over the most minor of issues. Though castles and villages are widespread, Skaria lacks any significant towns, cities or urban areas, though its principal settlement is Moormoln.
Voy
A pleasant land of plains, Voy is a small but productive realm famed for its wines and honey. It is a country of rolling meadows, luxurious estates, and charming villages. Its principal settlement is Adelaire.
The Knoll
The southern borderland of the Empire, an arid place touching upon the Great Desert. It is a realm of marcher lords operating an old line of fortifications.
Newgarden
An Oasis within the desert of the Knoll. Newgarden was constructed around and upon the older Wyrhold. Sylas the ancient stout keep expanded into its present form after finding it severely lacking. It is a part of Wyr, The Knoll, and the Empire.
Wyr
Wyr is considered to be the most inhospitable part of the Knoll. Life, and settlements, exist scattered among the all too sparse oases. The people are often considered unfriendly and alien, sharing more in common with their kin to the south than the rest of the Empire. It is a part of The Knoll, and of the Empire.
Ye-ayn
West-northwest of Windstard, the small kingdom of Ye-ayn inhabits a large plateau and access to the kingdom is controlled at a small number of defensible natural passes. The Kingdom’s capital city is Hehduke and the kingdom is divided into eight counties. Goats, sheep and poultry are the kingdom’s principal livestock. Wheat, barley, corn and flax are the principal crops. There are forests, some small mines and quarries.
In an effort to cement a lasting peace, a marriage was arranged between King Luell Fawr and Lady Joyanna, the sister of Emperor Jakar III. However, since then, politics have strained the relationship between the royal houses.
Jawahra
The city of Jawahra sits alongside the Birikimci River, or Saver River, running through an arid valley bordering the blazing Great Desert, giving life to the inhabitants of the land and life to the vegetation grown alongside the banks of the river. The valley is rich in gemstone deposits, which the Fadriqa dynasty has taken advantage of for generations to ensure the prosperity of their sheikdom. Using this wealth, they constructed large fortified walls around the city, made of white stone which rebounds the sun's light, giving it the name Jawahra, or Gemstone.
Within the city is the Fadriqa Palace, the birthplace of the Legendary Hero Sôrd who fought against the Great King Norman Vixis at the Battle of the Elephant's Trunk, which proved to be a turning point in the war. He proved to be an excellent commander and duelist, becoming a legend among men, said to be able to take on entire armies with ease. After the war, after seeing plight of the people recovering from the costly war, pledged to construct a haven of peace. He decided to begin to begin construction of this so-called haven of peace at his birth place. He went on to form the Sheikdom of Eastmoor, founding it at a point along a river where Jawahra now sits. Sôrd eventually died, being laid at the newly constructed Vault of Efsanes, or the Vault of Legends, which remains to this day.
Along Jawahra's regional borders lies the Glistening Valley, a valley that extracts the rarest of gemstones. Although the Glistening Valley had once been controlled privately by the merchant families, under the Hân Ishraq, control of the Glistening Valley has been placed under his direct control. The valley is littered with mines digging into the earth, with Slave Masters overseeing the operation. Slaves are permitted to work for wage and dwell in villages designated for them, though they are forbidden from leaving the Glistening Valley unless permitted by direct order from the Slave Masters, who have been placed under the jurisdiction of the Coordinators who report to the Hân directly. The perimeter of the Glistening Valley is heavily patrolled by Eastmoor soldiers as per order of the Hân to deter thieves and raiding parties.
Jawahra is under the jurisdiction of the Empire.
Locations in the KHUPHATE
Moving Flood
The Khuliph is the largest nomadic capital ever known to man; it has been estimated that it hosts a population of over a million inhabitants, and has been observed to remain in one location for about two months. The organized but wild people bustle in the muddy streets tending to their affairs. The outskirts of the camp are guarded by patrols of horsemen, wielding both swords and bows, and are highly suspicious of any daring to enter the camp without some sort of eastern background. Fighting in the streets is common to occur, and murder is often overlooked by bystanders. Not much else is known about the city, its defenses, or about the ruling Khuphate family. It receives citizens of the Empire with the sword.
Locations in the SOUTHERN KINGDOMS
Sha'beesh
The city of Sha'beesh is the capital of the largest Southern Kingdom as of present, built on top of a plentiful oasis. The culture is rich and diverse, with many traditions that the Empire views with confusion and disgust. The city is located in the center of a large desert, with few water sources available outside the walls of the city. Camels travel along the trade route to other parts of the kingdoms, and into the Empire; the markets are bustling with trade, and the streets are well-maintained. The city trades diamonds and gemstones, and makes a large profit when trading with foreigners. A large palace rises above the city, and hosts the Sunt'eesh Dynasty. Reception of Empire inhabitants is insulting. The overall population has been estimated by Empire officials to be 2.4 million inhabitants.
Council Administration
Chancellor [MAX: 1]
The Chancellor has been appointed as head over the Emperor's Council, acting in the Emperor's stead when not present. The Chancellor handles diplomatic relations, and acts as an overseer. Some may see the Chancellor as a threat. The Chancellor office is given to those with superior diplomatic skills, those with reason, and those able to solve conflicts with words, rather than swords.
The Emperor's Fist [MAX: 1]
The individual has been appointed as The Emperor's Fist, the one he trusts the most out of all his other courtiers. He gives this person the ability to enforce his will, immunity from the law, and authority second only to his own. He answers directly to the Emperor. Though this individual does not have an official seat among the council, this person retains an honorary status and is able attend council meetings. The individual may be looked at with intense hate, or suspicion. The individual appointed this office has been selected because of his/her ability to enforce the Emperor's will, either through diplomatic means or through force. This person has also been selected primarily because of their reputation of trustworthiness.
Royal Steward [MAX: 2]
The steward manages the Emperor's household, and appoints additional stewards across the Empire to collect taxes and manage district finances. The steward has access to treasure houses across the Empire, and into the Royal Treasury situated in the court. The Chancellor looks at the Royal Steward with suspicion, for the most part. This office is given to an individual with the necessary stewardship skills who is capable of running the Empire's finances without fail.
Marshal of the Royal Army [MAX: 1]
The Marshal is the head of the Royal Army, and has access to several captains and generals stationed across the realm. The Marshal is looked at with respect, but some may be concealing suspicion as well. The office is only for those with quick, decisive, strategic thinking abilities, and is deemed capable to lead the Royal Army.
Golden Falcon Commander [MAX: 1]
This individual is the head of the elite division known as the Golden Falcon, the Emperor's personal military division that he controls directly through the Commander. The Commander's job is to oversee security in the palace, and ensure the safety of the Emperor. The position makes this person prestigious, but it also brings danger from both inside, and outside threats. Due to the great power that comes from holding this office, the individual is handpicked by the Emperor. From past records, the individual selected usually possesses great martial abilities and close relations with the Vixis Dynasty.
Other Court Positions
Vassal
These persons have been given direct vassalship under the Emperor. They own land, and soldiers that they lend to the Emperor when he calls for them.
OTHER:
(If you desire another role in court, please input a new role into your application. Again, this roleplay isn't strict and encourages creativity.
Chancellor [MAX: 1]
The Chancellor has been appointed as head over the Emperor's Council, acting in the Emperor's stead when not present. The Chancellor handles diplomatic relations, and acts as an overseer. Some may see the Chancellor as a threat. The Chancellor office is given to those with superior diplomatic skills, those with reason, and those able to solve conflicts with words, rather than swords.
The Emperor's Fist [MAX: 1]
The individual has been appointed as The Emperor's Fist, the one he trusts the most out of all his other courtiers. He gives this person the ability to enforce his will, immunity from the law, and authority second only to his own. He answers directly to the Emperor. Though this individual does not have an official seat among the council, this person retains an honorary status and is able attend council meetings. The individual may be looked at with intense hate, or suspicion. The individual appointed this office has been selected because of his/her ability to enforce the Emperor's will, either through diplomatic means or through force. This person has also been selected primarily because of their reputation of trustworthiness.
Royal Steward [MAX: 2]
The steward manages the Emperor's household, and appoints additional stewards across the Empire to collect taxes and manage district finances. The steward has access to treasure houses across the Empire, and into the Royal Treasury situated in the court. The Chancellor looks at the Royal Steward with suspicion, for the most part. This office is given to an individual with the necessary stewardship skills who is capable of running the Empire's finances without fail.
Marshal of the Royal Army [MAX: 1]
The Marshal is the head of the Royal Army, and has access to several captains and generals stationed across the realm. The Marshal is looked at with respect, but some may be concealing suspicion as well. The office is only for those with quick, decisive, strategic thinking abilities, and is deemed capable to lead the Royal Army.
Golden Falcon Commander [MAX: 1]
This individual is the head of the elite division known as the Golden Falcon, the Emperor's personal military division that he controls directly through the Commander. The Commander's job is to oversee security in the palace, and ensure the safety of the Emperor. The position makes this person prestigious, but it also brings danger from both inside, and outside threats. Due to the great power that comes from holding this office, the individual is handpicked by the Emperor. From past records, the individual selected usually possesses great martial abilities and close relations with the Vixis Dynasty.
Other Court Positions
Vassal
These persons have been given direct vassalship under the Emperor. They own land, and soldiers that they lend to the Emperor when he calls for them.
OTHER:
(If you desire another role in court, please input a new role into your application. Again, this roleplay isn't strict and encourages creativity.
SOCIAL CLASSES
Royalty
This class consists of indirect/direct members of the Vixis family, and from those with rich family backgrounds, or former ruling houses of territory that was forcibly taken by the Empire. They are trained from birth to take the lead in the numerous affairs of the nations, and given training by numerous diplomats, as well as scholars. They usually command respect from the other classes, but are generally disliked by the Nobility class.
+3 Stewardship
+2 Diplomacy
+4 Renown
Nobility
The class consists of the wealthy in particular. They are the ruling social class in the Empire, and exercise authority over many political offices, as well as petty to medium military posts. They aren't liked by the Peasant class, and should be on guard around members of that social class.
+2 Intrigue
+3 Stewardship
+3 Renown
Child of War
The members of this class, for as long as they can remember, have been trained in the art of war. Whether it be soldiers or the strategists commanding them, they are a formidable force to be reckoned with, and have been trained hard in the art of war. The members of this class have inner connections within army outposts throughout the Empire.
+5 Martial
Scholars
Scholars have the privilege of learning many sorts of knowledge, much more so than all the other classes in the Empire. Their extensive knowledge gives them an upperhand in negotiations. Scholars have also been known to study books of intrigue, and may be looked at with suspicion by the nobility class. The members of this class are usually seen in places of learning, such as the Great Library.
+3 Diplomacy
+2 Intrigue
+1 Renown
Peasants
Of all the social classes, the Peasants are by far the most numerous, and are particularly despised by the Nobility. Peasants will do anything to survive, whether it be from working the fields or sticking a blade into another peasant who has a loaf of bread. They have numerous contacts in the underground world.
+3 Martial
+2 Intrigue
???
The members of this class are an epiphany in themselves. Hardly anything is known about those who are associated with this class. Are they a league of drunkards? A group of assassins? A resistance group? Not enough is known about them for anyone to care, mere rumors swimming upstream... even though they may be dangerous.
+5 Intrigue
Royalty
This class consists of indirect/direct members of the Vixis family, and from those with rich family backgrounds, or former ruling houses of territory that was forcibly taken by the Empire. They are trained from birth to take the lead in the numerous affairs of the nations, and given training by numerous diplomats, as well as scholars. They usually command respect from the other classes, but are generally disliked by the Nobility class.
+3 Stewardship
+2 Diplomacy
+4 Renown
Nobility
The class consists of the wealthy in particular. They are the ruling social class in the Empire, and exercise authority over many political offices, as well as petty to medium military posts. They aren't liked by the Peasant class, and should be on guard around members of that social class.
+2 Intrigue
+3 Stewardship
+3 Renown
Child of War
The members of this class, for as long as they can remember, have been trained in the art of war. Whether it be soldiers or the strategists commanding them, they are a formidable force to be reckoned with, and have been trained hard in the art of war. The members of this class have inner connections within army outposts throughout the Empire.
+5 Martial
Scholars
Scholars have the privilege of learning many sorts of knowledge, much more so than all the other classes in the Empire. Their extensive knowledge gives them an upperhand in negotiations. Scholars have also been known to study books of intrigue, and may be looked at with suspicion by the nobility class. The members of this class are usually seen in places of learning, such as the Great Library.
+3 Diplomacy
+2 Intrigue
+1 Renown
Peasants
Of all the social classes, the Peasants are by far the most numerous, and are particularly despised by the Nobility. Peasants will do anything to survive, whether it be from working the fields or sticking a blade into another peasant who has a loaf of bread. They have numerous contacts in the underground world.
+3 Martial
+2 Intrigue
???
The members of this class are an epiphany in themselves. Hardly anything is known about those who are associated with this class. Are they a league of drunkards? A group of assassins? A resistance group? Not enough is known about them for anyone to care, mere rumors swimming upstream... even though they may be dangerous.
+5 Intrigue
BRIEF HISTORY—INCOMPLETE
Candle light illuminates the corridors filled with manuscripts. No light shines from the slits in the walls, and the usual bustling activity has ceased. You search through the manuscripts for hours, searching for the oldest known, credible manuscripts of the Empire. At last, you come across an old, fragile scroll. It would appear the copyists have yet to preserve this one. You carefully unroll the scroll, blowing the dust from the papyrus paper. HISTORY OF VEXIA AND HER GREAT KINGS— just what you were looking for. You take the scroll with you to the desk lit dimly by the candlelight. You analyze the content inside.
1 IY: Emperor Aeors 'the Swift' Vixis founds the Vexian Empire.
2 IY: Emperor Aeors sets out on a series of campaigns into surrounding territories.
7 IY: Emperor Aeors returns to the capital of Windstard victorious.
22 IY: Emperor Aeors creates the Golden Falcon regiment, giving the first Golden Falcon Commander, Theodore 'the Saw' Maxis, authority over internal security of the homeland.
29 IY: Emperor Aeors invades the Northern Territories, putting defiant inhabitants to death and enslaving the rest.
33 IY: Settlers migrate from the mainland to the Northern Territories.
44 IY: Construction of the Blue Palace begins.
56 IY: Construction of the Great Library begins.
63 IY: Rebellions spring up across conquered territories.
64 IY: Led by Golden Falcon Commander Theodore 'the Saw' Maxis, the Golden Falcons engage in a lengthy battle in the mountain pass leading to Windstard. By his cunning, he lured a large force into a position of ambush, unleashing an onslaught of heavy boulders upon the unsuspecting troops. Weeks prior, hundreds of cavalrymen were smuggled across the mountain range through a hidden passage, leading to a decisive flanking maneuver that sealed the Empire's founding.
65 IY: The rebellion is effectively crushed. The leaders of the rebellion are paraded on stakes across the realm to discourage further dissent.
67 IY: The Blue Palace finishes construction.
71 IY: Emperor Aeors 'the Swift' Vixis suffers from a heart attack while playing chess against Theodore Maxis, and dies. Theodore Maxis assumed regency over the young heir until his coming of age.
101 IY: The Great Library finishes construction, and is deemed to be a marvel of engineering.
150 IY: Emperor Ares 'The Terrible' Vixis musters his forces against the fertile eastern lands. The unstructured nomads were decisively defeated within a year. Ares decreed that their bodies should be placed along the newly acquired Eastern Territories, nailed on stakes.
155 IY: While taking an afternoon stroll through Windstard, eyewitnesses recount that a peasant shouted curses at the Emperor, and proceeded to throw stones. They recount further that the Emperor was seen seething with rage. The peasant was slain on the spot by the Emperor's bodyguards. In the evening, the Emperor decreed that every peasant should be killed for 'traitorous thinking' and burned. A great massacre ensued, with wails echoing all through the night.
156 IY: Emperor Ares 'The Terrible' Vixis is murdered by the Golden Falcon Commander.
501 IY: The Great King Norman Vixis invades the kingdoms in the south, aiming to push the borders of the Empire to incorporate the Great Desert.
511 IY: Sôrd, with the aid of the Southern Kingdoms, decisively defeats Emperor Norman at the Battle of the Elephant's Trunk. The war continues for a few months afterwards before the subsequent declaration of peace between both sides. It has been rumored that after Norman Vixis suffered that crushing defeat, he sunk into a state of denial, insisting that the engagement was won. The Battle of the Elephant's Trunk would go down in history as the Vexian Empire's greatest defeat.
The manuscripts are arranged in random order, making it difficult for you to navigate in a chronological order. At the moment, you will have to make due with what you have.
Candle light illuminates the corridors filled with manuscripts. No light shines from the slits in the walls, and the usual bustling activity has ceased. You search through the manuscripts for hours, searching for the oldest known, credible manuscripts of the Empire. At last, you come across an old, fragile scroll. It would appear the copyists have yet to preserve this one. You carefully unroll the scroll, blowing the dust from the papyrus paper. HISTORY OF VEXIA AND HER GREAT KINGS— just what you were looking for. You take the scroll with you to the desk lit dimly by the candlelight. You analyze the content inside.
1 IY: Emperor Aeors 'the Swift' Vixis founds the Vexian Empire.
2 IY: Emperor Aeors sets out on a series of campaigns into surrounding territories.
7 IY: Emperor Aeors returns to the capital of Windstard victorious.
22 IY: Emperor Aeors creates the Golden Falcon regiment, giving the first Golden Falcon Commander, Theodore 'the Saw' Maxis, authority over internal security of the homeland.
29 IY: Emperor Aeors invades the Northern Territories, putting defiant inhabitants to death and enslaving the rest.
33 IY: Settlers migrate from the mainland to the Northern Territories.
44 IY: Construction of the Blue Palace begins.
56 IY: Construction of the Great Library begins.
63 IY: Rebellions spring up across conquered territories.
64 IY: Led by Golden Falcon Commander Theodore 'the Saw' Maxis, the Golden Falcons engage in a lengthy battle in the mountain pass leading to Windstard. By his cunning, he lured a large force into a position of ambush, unleashing an onslaught of heavy boulders upon the unsuspecting troops. Weeks prior, hundreds of cavalrymen were smuggled across the mountain range through a hidden passage, leading to a decisive flanking maneuver that sealed the Empire's founding.
65 IY: The rebellion is effectively crushed. The leaders of the rebellion are paraded on stakes across the realm to discourage further dissent.
67 IY: The Blue Palace finishes construction.
71 IY: Emperor Aeors 'the Swift' Vixis suffers from a heart attack while playing chess against Theodore Maxis, and dies. Theodore Maxis assumed regency over the young heir until his coming of age.
101 IY: The Great Library finishes construction, and is deemed to be a marvel of engineering.
150 IY: Emperor Ares 'The Terrible' Vixis musters his forces against the fertile eastern lands. The unstructured nomads were decisively defeated within a year. Ares decreed that their bodies should be placed along the newly acquired Eastern Territories, nailed on stakes.
155 IY: While taking an afternoon stroll through Windstard, eyewitnesses recount that a peasant shouted curses at the Emperor, and proceeded to throw stones. They recount further that the Emperor was seen seething with rage. The peasant was slain on the spot by the Emperor's bodyguards. In the evening, the Emperor decreed that every peasant should be killed for 'traitorous thinking' and burned. A great massacre ensued, with wails echoing all through the night.
156 IY: Emperor Ares 'The Terrible' Vixis is murdered by the Golden Falcon Commander.
501 IY: The Great King Norman Vixis invades the kingdoms in the south, aiming to push the borders of the Empire to incorporate the Great Desert.
511 IY: Sôrd, with the aid of the Southern Kingdoms, decisively defeats Emperor Norman at the Battle of the Elephant's Trunk. The war continues for a few months afterwards before the subsequent declaration of peace between both sides. It has been rumored that after Norman Vixis suffered that crushing defeat, he sunk into a state of denial, insisting that the engagement was won. The Battle of the Elephant's Trunk would go down in history as the Vexian Empire's greatest defeat.
The manuscripts are arranged in random order, making it difficult for you to navigate in a chronological order. At the moment, you will have to make due with what you have.
MILITARY-BASED CHARACTERS ARE NOW CLOSED. PLEASE DESIGN A DIFFERENT CHARACTER IN THE APP BELOW.
Character Application
Full Name:
House (Family) Name:
Title (if any):
Social Class:
Sex:
Age:
Appearance:
Role in Court:
Backstory:
Additional Info (optional) :
Stewardship: (0-15)
Intrigue: (0-15)
Martial: (0-15)
Diplomacy: (0-15)
Renown: (0-15)
There are a total of 20 points to distribute to the categories above, 15 being legendary status, 0 being horrible status. While there is no set game mechanic that implements the skills above, it is meant to act as a sort of guide when it comes to interacting with other characters or when taking actions. For example, while a character with 15 Martial would easily win a duel against a foe, a character with 4 Martial skill will have an incredibly difficult time fencing another with higher martial skill and may have to rely on another skill, such as Intrigue.
TRACKING PURPOSES: Indiana
Character Application
Full Name:
House (Family) Name:
Title (if any):
Social Class:
Sex:
Age:
Appearance:
Role in Court:
Backstory:
Additional Info (optional) :
Stewardship: (0-15)
Intrigue: (0-15)
Martial: (0-15)
Diplomacy: (0-15)
Renown: (0-15)
There are a total of 20 points to distribute to the categories above, 15 being legendary status, 0 being horrible status. While there is no set game mechanic that implements the skills above, it is meant to act as a sort of guide when it comes to interacting with other characters or when taking actions. For example, while a character with 15 Martial would easily win a duel against a foe, a character with 4 Martial skill will have an incredibly difficult time fencing another with higher martial skill and may have to rely on another skill, such as Intrigue.
TRACKING PURPOSES: Indiana
Example
Name of Place: Winelandia
Description: Winelandia is a brewery that has been declared a sovereign nation by the brewer, but ultimately the place was placed under Empire rule after the raid by city guardsmen. Winelandia has no security, and is vulnerable to thievery. The reception of Windlandia is warm, as the brewer wishes to take all your money.
Part of: Empire
Name of Place:
Description:
Part of:
Name of Place: Winelandia
Description: Winelandia is a brewery that has been declared a sovereign nation by the brewer, but ultimately the place was placed under Empire rule after the raid by city guardsmen. Winelandia has no security, and is vulnerable to thievery. The reception of Windlandia is warm, as the brewer wishes to take all your money.
Part of: Empire
Name of Place:
Description:
Part of:
Full Name: Brandon 'Mariot' Vixis
House (Family) Name: Vixis
Title (if any): Emperor
Social Class: Head of State
Sex: Male
Age: 29
Appearance: Shown here
Role in Court: Head of State
Backstory: Brandon "Mariot" Vixis was born in the Blue Palace during the summer season, on the year as the son of Emperor Jakar Vixis III, during the healthy years of his reign. As a boy, he was always fascinated with the tales of powerful knights and legendary wars, and at that point his mind was set to take the lead in warfare. He was always urged on by his father to learn the ways of politics, but he always put him off, preferring to play stick fighting with his childhood companions. Despite his ambitions, his father forced him to be tutored by many prestigious scholars, but behind his back, he was also tutored by military strategists who nourished his ambition for the art of war. He maintained a steady relationship with his father.
As he grew older, Brandon witnessed the beginning of strife in the realm, learning of the Empire's many crippling issues through the advisers on the council. It was at this time he left to take command of the Royal Army on the Eastern Front, despite the wishes of his father. He fought on the front for over four years, learning first-hand the cruelty of war, and the discipline required to keep his men in line. His relationship with his family deteriorated over time as he began to isolate himself in his work in the Eastern Front, dedicating all his time to fighting the infamous Khuphate.
As he was nearing his eighth year of military service, he was informed of the death of his father at the frontlines. Leaving the command of the Royal Army to a trusted soldier and friend, he immediately set out for the capital to assume his new responsibilities. He grieved at the loss of his father along the way, but upon arriving at the gates of the capital, he steeled himself for what lay ahead. Upon his coronation as Emperor in the year 1049 IY, he immediately sent out the order to have courtiers sent from across the realm to serve at his court in hopes of resolving the issues plaguing the Empire. In order to meet the courtiers, he decreed that a ball shall be held in the Blue Palace, where he will make first impressions...
Stewardship: 4
Intrigue: 3
Martial: 10
Diplomacy: 6
Renown: 6
Full Name: Ishraq Fatyan Gaya
House (Family) Name: Fadriqa
Title (if any): Hân, Lord, Lord Steward, Katil (disrespectful title)
Social Class: Nobility
Sex: Male
Age: 31
Appearance: Ishraq in battle attire. When he is not in battle attire, he wears traditional Vexian garments, which he's adopted in order to fit in in the Empire's royal court.
Role in Court: Royal Steward
Backstory:
Ishraq Fatyan Gaya was born in 1018 IY to Hân Nameer Fatyan Gaya of House Fadriqa and a noblewoman who died during childbirth. His father, Hân Nameer Gaya, ruled over the Sheikdom of Eastmoor, which was at the time independent and one of the collective Southern Kingdoms. The Sheikdom of Eastmoor was founded by the Legendary Hero Sôrda, who fought a battle that proved to be a turning point against the Great King Norman Vixis. Eastmoor was a member of the Dabosaintvieti Council, which consisted of each of the sovereign nations of the Southern Kingdoms. It's primary function was to deter foreign invasion, primarily the Empire, after the Great King Norman Vixis' ten year invasion of the kingdoms which nearly ended in defeat for the kingdoms. The Dabosaintvieti Council has changed over time, evolving from a simple military agreement between the kingdoms into a conference for diplomatic and economic matters. Each member on the Dabosaintvieti pledge three members to discuss various matters on their behalf, with one of the nations elected to preside. However, the Dabosaintvieti has very little power over the sovereign nations themselves, and relies on the cooperation of the nation in question in order to 'enforce' the council's decisions.
His father ruled from Jawahra, the Jewel of the South. Though it doesn't match the greatness of the legendary city of Shab'eesh, Jawahra has earned a rich reputation. The city of Jawahra sits alongside the Birikimci River, or Saver River, running through an arid valley, giving life to the inhabitants of the land and life to the vegetation grown alongside the banks of the river. The valley is rich in gemstone deposits, which the Fadriqa dynasty has taken advantage of for generations to ensure the prosperity of their sheikdom. Using this wealth, they constructed large fortified walls around the city, made of white stone which rebounds the sun's light, giving it the name Jawahra, or Gemstone. Eastmoor has long been a target by member nations of the Southern Kingdoms due to the rich deposits of gemstones found within the land, though Eastmoor has maintained it's neutrality by utilizing their wealth through bribes and other sinister means to ensure peace.
Eastmoor's independence, however, soon appear only in the history books. Chelubey Khan, a ferocious warrior who was supposed to be in the east, invaded the Southern Kingdoms, pillaging and putting the land to the sword with brutality that at the time was unheard of. Although Eastmoor initially remained untouched, soon the fiery rage of the Khan reached Eastmoor, engulfing the land in the flames of battle. Eastmoor, which was a nation that had long maintained it's neutrality for generations, preferring to accumulate wealth, proved no match militarily when facing the Khan and his Horde. The soldiers of Eastmoor were equipped with the finest weaponry to offer in the Southern Kingdoms, though they lacked the training to wield it. They might as well have ran to the enemy with pitchforks. The soldiers were easily routed, hiding behind the walls of Jawahra as they razed the countryside. Hân Nameer, without the aid of the kingdoms who saw the acts of Chelubey Khan as an act of holy fury against the detestable Fadriqa dynasty, swore fealty to the then-Emperor Jakar Vixis. This greatly angered the inhabitants of Eastmoor, to the point of murderous intent, especially when the raids of the Iblis Khan, or the Demon Khan as the inhabitants of the Southern Kingdoms called him, continued for a time. The streets of Jawahra were filled with unrest, and the city guard struggled to keep the peace. Soon enough, Chelubey Khan was recalled to the Empire, leaving the Hân to rebuild and restructure the sheikdom under the Emperor's directive. It was at around this time that Hân Nameer became bedridden from stress and old age. His son, Ishraq, was very displeased at his father's decision to swear fealty to the incapable Emperor.
Ishraq was the third of eight sons, born from a secondary wife. He was raised by the tutors at court in the ways of stewardship, following the Fadriqa tradition of business. He instantly took to the profession he was expected to fulfill. By his twenty-third year of birth, he was successfully handling the finances of the sheikdom, often utilizing new methods and ideas in order to increase the efficiency of Eastmoor and the trading business, earning him the favor from the many merchant families in Eastmoor.
He, however, was not content with simply managing the funds of the sheikdom. With his father bedridden from old age, his older brother would inherit the sheikdom along with all it's bountiful wealth— and Ishraq would not have it. After extensive planning, on the night of the new moon, which was regarded as sacred by their culture, he gave the go ahead on a series of assassinations on his relatives, particularly his brothers. The assassinations were successful, leaving only him as heir to the sheikdom. The assassins then turned on each other, believing that the other would expose their plot, which was untrue. Ishraq was viewed with great suspicion now that he remained sole heir to the sheikdom, though action was never taken against him. The merchant families of Eastmoor took to calling him Katil, or Killer.
His father, Nameer Fatyan Gaya, could not handle the loss of his sons. He passed from the world, being laid in a tomb in the Vaults of Efsane, or the Vaults of Legend. And thus, the Sheikdom of Eastmoor fell upon the shoulders of Ishraq Fatyan Gaya, the new Hân. Ishraq was deemed Hân at the Festival of Parlak. At the festival, the Hân is to go without food or water for ten days whilst attending the festival full of feasting, men and women pairing off for future marriage, and rich symbolic dancing representing the blessings of Jawahra, as well as the traditional brawls before the soon-to-be-appointed Hân, the victor earning the right to serve the Hân personally in whatever position the Hân deems fit. After the ten days, the Hân is to trek to the Vault of Efsanes naked and without food and water for the 60 kilometer trek through the arid valley. Only the strongest Hâns endure the trek, and are subsuquently declared Hân at the Vault of Efsanes by the vassals of Eastmoor. The flesh of the new Hân is then tatooed behind the right ear with three dots, signifying his authority.
After his being declared Hân, Ishraq set out in rebuilding all that dealt a heavy blow by Chelubey Khan, which was no simple task. He first began with improving the walls of Jawahra, reasoning that an assault from the Southern Kingdoms was now a very real possibility now that Eastmoor's influence over the Southern Kingdoms had waned. He issued the order for multiple internal construction projects, as well as the construction of additional mines in the Glistening Valley, which was their primary location for extracting ore. He improved the roads, connecting them to the Empire. He also sent for military-minded individuals to his court in order to improve the militaristic capabilities of Eastmoor.
The Hâns efforts were halted when a revolt emerged in the heart of Jawahra, demanding succession from the Empire and the head of the last Fadriqa Hân. They seized the arsenal located in the city, and slaughtered the Eastmoor soldiers. At Ishraq's order, the city was set ablaze, forcing the rebels to flee. Ishraq fled through tunnels located underneath the palace. From there, he made way to Windstard, where he came into contact with Robert Regnia, Captain of the Scarlet Lances, who was known as being one of the more reliable mercenaries for hire. With a bag of gold on hand, he hired the Scarlet Lances to put down the rebellion in Eastmoor and retake the city of Jawahra, which had been badly damaged. He resided in Windstard in the meantime, visiting the Great Library to tour it's vast collection, and dwelling in the court located within the Blue Palace.
There, he came to know of the true condition of the Empire, whose facade presented itself as a formidable foe, a force to be reckoned with. The Empire was weak, as were the nobles who schemed among the sea of courtiers, each plotting to achieve their own ambition regardless of the imminent danger plaguing her borders.
Intrigued, he intertwined with the court, mingling with the nobility. While most sneered at the sight of him, there were those who were curious about his intellect and his ability and put aside prejudice. With the few who were charmed by Ishraq, he established reliable connections within the royal court.
When the Scarlet Lances put down the rebellion, he returned to his court in Jawahra, residing in tents as the skilled masons he hired in the capital went to work. As Jawahra neared completion, he received word from his contacts within the court informing him of the Emperor's death, and the subsequent crowning of Brandon Vixis, a talented general placed in charge of the Eastern Front. Unfazed, he immediately requested to be recommended to the newly crowned Emperor to serve as Royal Steward on his council. Soon after, a letter bearing the royal sigil was delivered to him, requesting his presence at the royal court to serve as the second Royal Steward, which is necessary due to the size of the realm.
Ishraq arrived at a revelation sometime after leaving the court in Windstard, which gave him the incentive to serve in Brandon's court. With him able to spot the many weaknesses of the Empire, along with the discord among the nobility, how much planning will it take to tear down the mighty dragon?
Stewardship: 6 (3)
Intrigue: 7 (2)
Martial: 0
Diplomacy: 7
Renown: (4)
Name of Place: Jawahra
Description: The city of Jawahra sits alongside the Birikimci River, or Saver River, running through an arid valley bordering the blazing Great Desert, giving life to the inhabitants of the land and life to the vegetation grown alongside the banks of the river. The valley is rich in gemstone deposits, which the Fadriqa dynasty has taken advantage of for generations to ensure the prosperity of their sheikdom. Using this wealth, they constructed large fortified walls around the city, made of white stone which rebounds the sun's light, giving it the name Jawahra, or Gemstone.
Within the city is the Fadriqa Palace, the birthplace of the Legendary Hero Sôrd who fought against the Great King Norman Vixis at the Battle of the Elephant's Trunk, which proved to be a turning point in the war. He proved to be an excellent commander and duelist, becoming a legend among men, said to be able to take on entire armies with ease. After the war, after seeing plight of the people recovering from the costly war, pledged to construct a haven of peace. He decided to begin to begin construction of this so-called haven of peace at his birth place. He went on to form the Sheikdom of Eastmoor, founding it at a point along a river where Jawahra now sits. Sôrd eventually died, being laid at the newly constructed Vault of Efsanes, or the Vault of Legends, which remains to this day.
Along Jawahra's regional borders lies the Glistening Valley, a valley that extracts the rarest of gemstones. Although the Glistening Valley had once been controlled privately by the merchant families, under the Hân Ishraq, control of the Glistening Valley has been placed under his direct control. The valley is littered with mines digging into the earth, with Slave Masters overseeing the operation. Slaves are permitted to work for wage and dwell in villages designated for them, though they are forbidden from leaving the Glistening Valley unless permitted by direct order from the Slave Masters, who have been placed under the jurisdiction of the Coordinators who report to the Hân directly. The perimeter of the Glistening Valley is heavily patrolled by Eastmoor soldiers as per order of the Hân to deter thieves and raiding parties.
Part of: The Empire, Sheikdom of Eastmoor.
TRACKING PURPOSES: Indiana
House (Family) Name: Vixis
Title (if any): Emperor
Social Class: Head of State
Sex: Male
Age: 29
Appearance: Shown here
Role in Court: Head of State
Backstory: Brandon "Mariot" Vixis was born in the Blue Palace during the summer season, on the year as the son of Emperor Jakar Vixis III, during the healthy years of his reign. As a boy, he was always fascinated with the tales of powerful knights and legendary wars, and at that point his mind was set to take the lead in warfare. He was always urged on by his father to learn the ways of politics, but he always put him off, preferring to play stick fighting with his childhood companions. Despite his ambitions, his father forced him to be tutored by many prestigious scholars, but behind his back, he was also tutored by military strategists who nourished his ambition for the art of war. He maintained a steady relationship with his father.
As he grew older, Brandon witnessed the beginning of strife in the realm, learning of the Empire's many crippling issues through the advisers on the council. It was at this time he left to take command of the Royal Army on the Eastern Front, despite the wishes of his father. He fought on the front for over four years, learning first-hand the cruelty of war, and the discipline required to keep his men in line. His relationship with his family deteriorated over time as he began to isolate himself in his work in the Eastern Front, dedicating all his time to fighting the infamous Khuphate.
As he was nearing his eighth year of military service, he was informed of the death of his father at the frontlines. Leaving the command of the Royal Army to a trusted soldier and friend, he immediately set out for the capital to assume his new responsibilities. He grieved at the loss of his father along the way, but upon arriving at the gates of the capital, he steeled himself for what lay ahead. Upon his coronation as Emperor in the year 1049 IY, he immediately sent out the order to have courtiers sent from across the realm to serve at his court in hopes of resolving the issues plaguing the Empire. In order to meet the courtiers, he decreed that a ball shall be held in the Blue Palace, where he will make first impressions...
Stewardship: 4
Intrigue: 3
Martial: 10
Diplomacy: 6
Renown: 6
Full Name: Ishraq Fatyan Gaya
House (Family) Name: Fadriqa
Title (if any): Hân, Lord, Lord Steward, Katil (disrespectful title)
Social Class: Nobility
Sex: Male
Age: 31
Appearance: Ishraq in battle attire. When he is not in battle attire, he wears traditional Vexian garments, which he's adopted in order to fit in in the Empire's royal court.
Role in Court: Royal Steward
Backstory:
Ishraq Fatyan Gaya was born in 1018 IY to Hân Nameer Fatyan Gaya of House Fadriqa and a noblewoman who died during childbirth. His father, Hân Nameer Gaya, ruled over the Sheikdom of Eastmoor, which was at the time independent and one of the collective Southern Kingdoms. The Sheikdom of Eastmoor was founded by the Legendary Hero Sôrda, who fought a battle that proved to be a turning point against the Great King Norman Vixis. Eastmoor was a member of the Dabosaintvieti Council, which consisted of each of the sovereign nations of the Southern Kingdoms. It's primary function was to deter foreign invasion, primarily the Empire, after the Great King Norman Vixis' ten year invasion of the kingdoms which nearly ended in defeat for the kingdoms. The Dabosaintvieti Council has changed over time, evolving from a simple military agreement between the kingdoms into a conference for diplomatic and economic matters. Each member on the Dabosaintvieti pledge three members to discuss various matters on their behalf, with one of the nations elected to preside. However, the Dabosaintvieti has very little power over the sovereign nations themselves, and relies on the cooperation of the nation in question in order to 'enforce' the council's decisions.
His father ruled from Jawahra, the Jewel of the South. Though it doesn't match the greatness of the legendary city of Shab'eesh, Jawahra has earned a rich reputation. The city of Jawahra sits alongside the Birikimci River, or Saver River, running through an arid valley, giving life to the inhabitants of the land and life to the vegetation grown alongside the banks of the river. The valley is rich in gemstone deposits, which the Fadriqa dynasty has taken advantage of for generations to ensure the prosperity of their sheikdom. Using this wealth, they constructed large fortified walls around the city, made of white stone which rebounds the sun's light, giving it the name Jawahra, or Gemstone. Eastmoor has long been a target by member nations of the Southern Kingdoms due to the rich deposits of gemstones found within the land, though Eastmoor has maintained it's neutrality by utilizing their wealth through bribes and other sinister means to ensure peace.
Eastmoor's independence, however, soon appear only in the history books. Chelubey Khan, a ferocious warrior who was supposed to be in the east, invaded the Southern Kingdoms, pillaging and putting the land to the sword with brutality that at the time was unheard of. Although Eastmoor initially remained untouched, soon the fiery rage of the Khan reached Eastmoor, engulfing the land in the flames of battle. Eastmoor, which was a nation that had long maintained it's neutrality for generations, preferring to accumulate wealth, proved no match militarily when facing the Khan and his Horde. The soldiers of Eastmoor were equipped with the finest weaponry to offer in the Southern Kingdoms, though they lacked the training to wield it. They might as well have ran to the enemy with pitchforks. The soldiers were easily routed, hiding behind the walls of Jawahra as they razed the countryside. Hân Nameer, without the aid of the kingdoms who saw the acts of Chelubey Khan as an act of holy fury against the detestable Fadriqa dynasty, swore fealty to the then-Emperor Jakar Vixis. This greatly angered the inhabitants of Eastmoor, to the point of murderous intent, especially when the raids of the Iblis Khan, or the Demon Khan as the inhabitants of the Southern Kingdoms called him, continued for a time. The streets of Jawahra were filled with unrest, and the city guard struggled to keep the peace. Soon enough, Chelubey Khan was recalled to the Empire, leaving the Hân to rebuild and restructure the sheikdom under the Emperor's directive. It was at around this time that Hân Nameer became bedridden from stress and old age. His son, Ishraq, was very displeased at his father's decision to swear fealty to the incapable Emperor.
Ishraq was the third of eight sons, born from a secondary wife. He was raised by the tutors at court in the ways of stewardship, following the Fadriqa tradition of business. He instantly took to the profession he was expected to fulfill. By his twenty-third year of birth, he was successfully handling the finances of the sheikdom, often utilizing new methods and ideas in order to increase the efficiency of Eastmoor and the trading business, earning him the favor from the many merchant families in Eastmoor.
He, however, was not content with simply managing the funds of the sheikdom. With his father bedridden from old age, his older brother would inherit the sheikdom along with all it's bountiful wealth— and Ishraq would not have it. After extensive planning, on the night of the new moon, which was regarded as sacred by their culture, he gave the go ahead on a series of assassinations on his relatives, particularly his brothers. The assassinations were successful, leaving only him as heir to the sheikdom. The assassins then turned on each other, believing that the other would expose their plot, which was untrue. Ishraq was viewed with great suspicion now that he remained sole heir to the sheikdom, though action was never taken against him. The merchant families of Eastmoor took to calling him Katil, or Killer.
His father, Nameer Fatyan Gaya, could not handle the loss of his sons. He passed from the world, being laid in a tomb in the Vaults of Efsane, or the Vaults of Legend. And thus, the Sheikdom of Eastmoor fell upon the shoulders of Ishraq Fatyan Gaya, the new Hân. Ishraq was deemed Hân at the Festival of Parlak. At the festival, the Hân is to go without food or water for ten days whilst attending the festival full of feasting, men and women pairing off for future marriage, and rich symbolic dancing representing the blessings of Jawahra, as well as the traditional brawls before the soon-to-be-appointed Hân, the victor earning the right to serve the Hân personally in whatever position the Hân deems fit. After the ten days, the Hân is to trek to the Vault of Efsanes naked and without food and water for the 60 kilometer trek through the arid valley. Only the strongest Hâns endure the trek, and are subsuquently declared Hân at the Vault of Efsanes by the vassals of Eastmoor. The flesh of the new Hân is then tatooed behind the right ear with three dots, signifying his authority.
After his being declared Hân, Ishraq set out in rebuilding all that dealt a heavy blow by Chelubey Khan, which was no simple task. He first began with improving the walls of Jawahra, reasoning that an assault from the Southern Kingdoms was now a very real possibility now that Eastmoor's influence over the Southern Kingdoms had waned. He issued the order for multiple internal construction projects, as well as the construction of additional mines in the Glistening Valley, which was their primary location for extracting ore. He improved the roads, connecting them to the Empire. He also sent for military-minded individuals to his court in order to improve the militaristic capabilities of Eastmoor.
The Hâns efforts were halted when a revolt emerged in the heart of Jawahra, demanding succession from the Empire and the head of the last Fadriqa Hân. They seized the arsenal located in the city, and slaughtered the Eastmoor soldiers. At Ishraq's order, the city was set ablaze, forcing the rebels to flee. Ishraq fled through tunnels located underneath the palace. From there, he made way to Windstard, where he came into contact with Robert Regnia, Captain of the Scarlet Lances, who was known as being one of the more reliable mercenaries for hire. With a bag of gold on hand, he hired the Scarlet Lances to put down the rebellion in Eastmoor and retake the city of Jawahra, which had been badly damaged. He resided in Windstard in the meantime, visiting the Great Library to tour it's vast collection, and dwelling in the court located within the Blue Palace.
There, he came to know of the true condition of the Empire, whose facade presented itself as a formidable foe, a force to be reckoned with. The Empire was weak, as were the nobles who schemed among the sea of courtiers, each plotting to achieve their own ambition regardless of the imminent danger plaguing her borders.
Intrigued, he intertwined with the court, mingling with the nobility. While most sneered at the sight of him, there were those who were curious about his intellect and his ability and put aside prejudice. With the few who were charmed by Ishraq, he established reliable connections within the royal court.
When the Scarlet Lances put down the rebellion, he returned to his court in Jawahra, residing in tents as the skilled masons he hired in the capital went to work. As Jawahra neared completion, he received word from his contacts within the court informing him of the Emperor's death, and the subsequent crowning of Brandon Vixis, a talented general placed in charge of the Eastern Front. Unfazed, he immediately requested to be recommended to the newly crowned Emperor to serve as Royal Steward on his council. Soon after, a letter bearing the royal sigil was delivered to him, requesting his presence at the royal court to serve as the second Royal Steward, which is necessary due to the size of the realm.
Ishraq arrived at a revelation sometime after leaving the court in Windstard, which gave him the incentive to serve in Brandon's court. With him able to spot the many weaknesses of the Empire, along with the discord among the nobility, how much planning will it take to tear down the mighty dragon?
Stewardship: 6 (3)
Intrigue: 7 (2)
Martial: 0
Diplomacy: 7
Renown: (4)
Name of Place: Jawahra
Description: The city of Jawahra sits alongside the Birikimci River, or Saver River, running through an arid valley bordering the blazing Great Desert, giving life to the inhabitants of the land and life to the vegetation grown alongside the banks of the river. The valley is rich in gemstone deposits, which the Fadriqa dynasty has taken advantage of for generations to ensure the prosperity of their sheikdom. Using this wealth, they constructed large fortified walls around the city, made of white stone which rebounds the sun's light, giving it the name Jawahra, or Gemstone.
Within the city is the Fadriqa Palace, the birthplace of the Legendary Hero Sôrd who fought against the Great King Norman Vixis at the Battle of the Elephant's Trunk, which proved to be a turning point in the war. He proved to be an excellent commander and duelist, becoming a legend among men, said to be able to take on entire armies with ease. After the war, after seeing plight of the people recovering from the costly war, pledged to construct a haven of peace. He decided to begin to begin construction of this so-called haven of peace at his birth place. He went on to form the Sheikdom of Eastmoor, founding it at a point along a river where Jawahra now sits. Sôrd eventually died, being laid at the newly constructed Vault of Efsanes, or the Vault of Legends, which remains to this day.
Along Jawahra's regional borders lies the Glistening Valley, a valley that extracts the rarest of gemstones. Although the Glistening Valley had once been controlled privately by the merchant families, under the Hân Ishraq, control of the Glistening Valley has been placed under his direct control. The valley is littered with mines digging into the earth, with Slave Masters overseeing the operation. Slaves are permitted to work for wage and dwell in villages designated for them, though they are forbidden from leaving the Glistening Valley unless permitted by direct order from the Slave Masters, who have been placed under the jurisdiction of the Coordinators who report to the Hân directly. The perimeter of the Glistening Valley is heavily patrolled by Eastmoor soldiers as per order of the Hân to deter thieves and raiding parties.
Part of: The Empire, Sheikdom of Eastmoor.
TRACKING PURPOSES: Indiana
The roster of all accepted characters are located on the post below.
