Post by Lev on Sept 23, 2015 14:43:26 GMT
**Written and constructed by Trevor, the awesome**
After the Bloodborne King was dethroned, Etirath was left in shambles both physically and diplomatically. Under Vladimir Sayre, corruption and turmoil ruled the courts. When the cultists who held power were disposed of, a power vacuum was created and filling it became the upmost precedence. Theolandra, the aegis of the gods, was the first to fill the void. Instilling a divine monarchy on the Kingdom of Etirath, she became the solitary leader of mankind, and began to reconstruct the lands and hearts of the populace. However, Etirath proved to be too large and sprawling to be controlled by one woman, even if that woman was a quasi-immortal god spawn. In order to better maintain the kingdom, seven representatives called Surrogates were appointed to carry out her tasks as needed.
Hand picked by Theolandra, each Surrogate serves as a proxy for one of the Seven Divines and are ceremoniously meant to represent them. Their range of power over the Kingdom's divisions are directly related to their respective deities. Surrogates are handpicked by Theolandra after showing exceptional skill in the required field, however, the individual must be administratively minded as well. For example, a soldier may be the greatest bowman in the land, however they will not be a surrogate of Idvesta if they do not know how to also lead, feed and supply an entire army. However, in the half decade since the Fall of Bloodborne, few titles pertain to their original members. Natural deaths, assassination, obsoletism and other pitfalls that one would expect from a sovereignty have seized a number of individuals. Additionally, the shifting tides of a changing government has made the political waters in Etirath one of the most dangerous and volatile in comparison to neighboring lands.
Surrogates can also be unseated if desirable evidence of war crimes, treason, or directly disobeying Theolandra's orders is found. Additionally, acting outside of your field of influence without the consent of the fields original Surrogate will often have equally drastic consequences. In any event, the head of the offender's respective church will fill in the role until a new Surrogate can be found.
Surrogates keep each other in check. Using an earlier example, the Surrogate of Idvesta cannot request for an increase in army rations without first consulting with the Surrogate of Sympati. Similarly, the Surrogate of Den cannot declare marshal law upon a local town or city without advising to the Surrogate of Noc before hand. Again, all actions must inevitably be approved by Theolandra. The commands she gives must be met. The Surrogates are the ones who find the means.
If it is proven that an immediate action must be taken, a summit is held between all Surrogates. Meeting at a randomly disclosed location, Theolandra proclaims the current issue, possible solutions, then allows the Surrogates to talk amongst themselves to find a resolution. When an answer is decided upon between the surrogates, Theolandra approves the idea, adjusts it, or declines it entirely. If there is a rejection, the process starts over again. This process can take days and thus, is used sparingly. The Surrogates do hold a marginal amount of power over Theolandra however. In the rare event that every Surrogate takes issue with Theolandra's sovereignty and can all agree on an alternative action, a "cascade" is enacted and the God Child's hegemony is temporarily revoked. This practice was implemented to dissuade concerns over having another absolute monarch rule the land. As of today, a cascade has not been enacted.
Den/Light: Magistrates/Law Officials
As the light dispels darkness so too do Den's watchful constables rid the kingdom of crime and turmoil. Both jailer and judge, the Surrogate of Den keeps the peace of Etirath.
Surrogate: Kortite Teer
One of the few Surrogates who have withstood the testament of time, Kortite has been the only Surrogate of Den throughout Etirath’s history. Resolute, imposing, and not terribly fun at weddings, he has led the cities law enforcement for years now. In the earlier times before and after his inauguration, he would often lead patrols on the streets himself, but those days are gone. Now he protects the Kingdom from within the barracks, however he still takes his duties with as much pride as the day he began. One might accuse him of being callous or unsympathetic, but he would be likely take it as a compliment.
Milova/Love: Clergy/Community Assistance
Wells, bridges, orphanages, hospitals and churches. All must be made if this kingdom is to thrive, and knowing when and where they must be built is just as important as how they are built. In the past, the Surrogate of Milova could only chose who staffed these projects, however for the first time since Theolandra became ruler, the Surrogate of Milova finally has jurisdiction over where their hospitals and churches are placed.
Surrogate: Jole Harmaten
If there was ever a man who exemplified compassion, Jole was likely the father who raised him. When the preceding Surrogate, Idolan Bell, was assassinated by an unsatisfied priest of Idvesta, Jole was chosen to take his place under the grounds of being his mentor in the healing arts. A Surrogate of Milova for half a decade, Jole is the first of his position to have full control over his circle of influence. Exercising his power cautiously, his works have brought a great deal of relief to the citizens of Etirath. Completely renovating the housing of the kingdom's healers to more populated areas as opposed to wealthy districts was one of his first, and most popular decisions. Emphasizing self sacrifice above all else, Jole has become one of the kingdom's most revered political figures.
Sympati/Pity: Harvest/Crop Dispersement
The pity of Sympati provided man with bounties beyond measure. Times are tougher now, and with the Rebirth merely ten years behind us, food is only now becoming a common household item. Even so, food cultivation and distribution is just as important now as it ever was.
Surrogate: Setanna Omalan
For many, to be appointed as a surrogate would be one of the greatest honors you could receive. For Setanna, it is a burden. Before she was "captured by the beast of politics" Setanna was an explorer, a priest, and a caretaker. Venturing out into the wild perimeter at the surprisingly young age of seventeen, she single handedly supplied much needed reconnaissance to many smaller towns and villages. Many areas that would have gone unnoticed, and gone hungry, in the ensuing chaos after the Fall of Bloodborne were spared due to her diligence. Soon stories began to spread of her deeds and she quickly became a folk hero for those living beyond the rural districts. A symbol of hope that no man, woman or child would be forgotten under the reign of Theolandra. Once word had spread to the center of power, Theolandra offered her the position of the Sympati Surrogate and Setanna accepted, expecting to only hold the seat until a more practical figure could take her place. Years later she wearily sits on her title. Caught between the stones of discovery and duty, Setanna fears giving away her position to a less capable figure just as much as she fears spending the rest of her life behind desks and charts. While her elven heritage has allowed her to remain in her prime for much longer than a human, she is constantly aware that if she wishes to have any adventures beyond the city, departure must be sooner rather than later. While being the only Surrogate of Sympati in the Kingdom's lifetime has gotten her a great amount of respect from the populace, many citizens in Etirath have begun to recently begun to ridicule the Lady of Pity's detachment.
Idvesta/Vengeance: Standing Army/ Guards
Etirath has suffered much in the past. Enemies of both man and beast has left a scare on these lands. Prosperity may be upon us now, but vigilance is need now more than ever. Affluence attracts the wicked, and the wicked will be met by blade, bow and battle. Strike with holy retribution, and protect all those the city holds dear.
Surrogate: Horel Frien
A Surrogate for ten years, Horel's track record has been described as a "curiosity". Elected the Surrogate of Idvesta after his displays of bravado and leadership against the enemies of Etirath, much of his history beforehand is either contradicting or nonexistent. Tales of his humble life as a farmhand circulate just as much as the story that he was born to a noble and raised in a far away land. Despite protestations however he remains vague about his past. Nevertheless, many would argue that his works excuse his tight lips. A warrior on the battle field and the court, Horel has grown a reputation for being as staunch as he is brutal. Debates between him and Kortite have been documented as legendary.
Svitani/Calling: Basic Workforce/Construction
Every hand was needed to rebuild the kingdom. Now every hand is needed to maintain it. Before and during the Rebirth, the Surrogate of Svitani was one of the most influential political figures in Etirath, behind only Theolandra herself. Now that the city has begun to stabilize and reconstruction is nearing an end, other Surrogates are finally gaining control over there respective spheres of influences, and the Surrogate of Svitani has become less potent in the political court.
Surrogate: Roti Den'Proc
See those buildings? Hear those church bells? Feel that road beneath your feet? Chances are Roti had them all commissioned herself. A Surrogate for twelve years now, she is still getting used to a great deal of her power being stripped away, however as long as construction is necessary, she remains pledged to Theolandra. Rebuilding Etirath was one of the most daunting tasks of it's time, and Roti was all too eager to accept it. Gaining prestige and the notice of Theolandra through hard work and sheer force of will, she expects nothing less from the kingdom's work force.
Noc/Night: Ambassadors/Inner-City Relations
The heat of battle may be warm in presence but it is hot to the touch. The kingdom wants as few enemies, and riots, as possible. The Surrogate of Noc is charged with making sure that that value stays as a veracity.
Surrogate: William Quall
The youngest of all Surrogates, William knows the horrors of war first hand, and works tirelessly to prevent them. A soldier for most of his life, he was very passionate toward the more competitive arts for a great deal of time. Rising through the ranks of Horel's army, he became fairly noteworthy of his prowess in battle and became a Captain. Rumors even began to spread of him potentially becoming the new Surrogate of Idvesta. However, things quickly took a turn south when a patrol for smugglers went awry. Taking not nearly as many troops with him as he was recommended, his ego proved the best of him. Ambushed, defeated, beaten, and left for dead, William was the only person to come back from patrol. He has since pledged to put down the sword and end violence however it may arise. While his poise as a leader occasionally shines through, he tries to suppress it for fear of what it may bring to him, and those he holds dear.
Udel/Destiny: Research/Commerce
The Surrogate of Udel is in charge of expanding the city's prowess in both economic and archaic attributes. Were it not for Udel, man would not desire for greater things. Were it not for his Surrogate, they would never have the means of doing so.
Surrogate: Alterno Beel
A quite character, Alterno has preferred to keep to himself for most of his political carrier, much to the displeasure of the other surrogates. In the rare event that he speaks, one might hear a shard of distain in his voice. Or perhaps it is curiosity. It really is hard to tell. Either way, his inventions and innovations speak for themselves. A priest of Udel before becoming a Surrogate, Alterno's life has not changed much. He still builds, still graphs, and still charts up his findings. Now Theolandra just has to force him to publish them and occasionally listen to other priests magical jargon. Indeed, the past nineteen years with him in office have been...odd.
POLITICS OF ETIRATH: DIVINE MONARCHY AND SURROGATE OFFICE
After the Bloodborne King was dethroned, Etirath was left in shambles both physically and diplomatically. Under Vladimir Sayre, corruption and turmoil ruled the courts. When the cultists who held power were disposed of, a power vacuum was created and filling it became the upmost precedence. Theolandra, the aegis of the gods, was the first to fill the void. Instilling a divine monarchy on the Kingdom of Etirath, she became the solitary leader of mankind, and began to reconstruct the lands and hearts of the populace. However, Etirath proved to be too large and sprawling to be controlled by one woman, even if that woman was a quasi-immortal god spawn. In order to better maintain the kingdom, seven representatives called Surrogates were appointed to carry out her tasks as needed.
Hand picked by Theolandra, each Surrogate serves as a proxy for one of the Seven Divines and are ceremoniously meant to represent them. Their range of power over the Kingdom's divisions are directly related to their respective deities. Surrogates are handpicked by Theolandra after showing exceptional skill in the required field, however, the individual must be administratively minded as well. For example, a soldier may be the greatest bowman in the land, however they will not be a surrogate of Idvesta if they do not know how to also lead, feed and supply an entire army. However, in the half decade since the Fall of Bloodborne, few titles pertain to their original members. Natural deaths, assassination, obsoletism and other pitfalls that one would expect from a sovereignty have seized a number of individuals. Additionally, the shifting tides of a changing government has made the political waters in Etirath one of the most dangerous and volatile in comparison to neighboring lands.
Surrogates can also be unseated if desirable evidence of war crimes, treason, or directly disobeying Theolandra's orders is found. Additionally, acting outside of your field of influence without the consent of the fields original Surrogate will often have equally drastic consequences. In any event, the head of the offender's respective church will fill in the role until a new Surrogate can be found.
Surrogates keep each other in check. Using an earlier example, the Surrogate of Idvesta cannot request for an increase in army rations without first consulting with the Surrogate of Sympati. Similarly, the Surrogate of Den cannot declare marshal law upon a local town or city without advising to the Surrogate of Noc before hand. Again, all actions must inevitably be approved by Theolandra. The commands she gives must be met. The Surrogates are the ones who find the means.
If it is proven that an immediate action must be taken, a summit is held between all Surrogates. Meeting at a randomly disclosed location, Theolandra proclaims the current issue, possible solutions, then allows the Surrogates to talk amongst themselves to find a resolution. When an answer is decided upon between the surrogates, Theolandra approves the idea, adjusts it, or declines it entirely. If there is a rejection, the process starts over again. This process can take days and thus, is used sparingly. The Surrogates do hold a marginal amount of power over Theolandra however. In the rare event that every Surrogate takes issue with Theolandra's sovereignty and can all agree on an alternative action, a "cascade" is enacted and the God Child's hegemony is temporarily revoked. This practice was implemented to dissuade concerns over having another absolute monarch rule the land. As of today, a cascade has not been enacted.
Den/Light: Magistrates/Law Officials
As the light dispels darkness so too do Den's watchful constables rid the kingdom of crime and turmoil. Both jailer and judge, the Surrogate of Den keeps the peace of Etirath.
Surrogate: Kortite Teer
One of the few Surrogates who have withstood the testament of time, Kortite has been the only Surrogate of Den throughout Etirath’s history. Resolute, imposing, and not terribly fun at weddings, he has led the cities law enforcement for years now. In the earlier times before and after his inauguration, he would often lead patrols on the streets himself, but those days are gone. Now he protects the Kingdom from within the barracks, however he still takes his duties with as much pride as the day he began. One might accuse him of being callous or unsympathetic, but he would be likely take it as a compliment.
Milova/Love: Clergy/Community Assistance
Wells, bridges, orphanages, hospitals and churches. All must be made if this kingdom is to thrive, and knowing when and where they must be built is just as important as how they are built. In the past, the Surrogate of Milova could only chose who staffed these projects, however for the first time since Theolandra became ruler, the Surrogate of Milova finally has jurisdiction over where their hospitals and churches are placed.
Surrogate: Jole Harmaten
If there was ever a man who exemplified compassion, Jole was likely the father who raised him. When the preceding Surrogate, Idolan Bell, was assassinated by an unsatisfied priest of Idvesta, Jole was chosen to take his place under the grounds of being his mentor in the healing arts. A Surrogate of Milova for half a decade, Jole is the first of his position to have full control over his circle of influence. Exercising his power cautiously, his works have brought a great deal of relief to the citizens of Etirath. Completely renovating the housing of the kingdom's healers to more populated areas as opposed to wealthy districts was one of his first, and most popular decisions. Emphasizing self sacrifice above all else, Jole has become one of the kingdom's most revered political figures.
Sympati/Pity: Harvest/Crop Dispersement
The pity of Sympati provided man with bounties beyond measure. Times are tougher now, and with the Rebirth merely ten years behind us, food is only now becoming a common household item. Even so, food cultivation and distribution is just as important now as it ever was.
Surrogate: Setanna Omalan
For many, to be appointed as a surrogate would be one of the greatest honors you could receive. For Setanna, it is a burden. Before she was "captured by the beast of politics" Setanna was an explorer, a priest, and a caretaker. Venturing out into the wild perimeter at the surprisingly young age of seventeen, she single handedly supplied much needed reconnaissance to many smaller towns and villages. Many areas that would have gone unnoticed, and gone hungry, in the ensuing chaos after the Fall of Bloodborne were spared due to her diligence. Soon stories began to spread of her deeds and she quickly became a folk hero for those living beyond the rural districts. A symbol of hope that no man, woman or child would be forgotten under the reign of Theolandra. Once word had spread to the center of power, Theolandra offered her the position of the Sympati Surrogate and Setanna accepted, expecting to only hold the seat until a more practical figure could take her place. Years later she wearily sits on her title. Caught between the stones of discovery and duty, Setanna fears giving away her position to a less capable figure just as much as she fears spending the rest of her life behind desks and charts. While her elven heritage has allowed her to remain in her prime for much longer than a human, she is constantly aware that if she wishes to have any adventures beyond the city, departure must be sooner rather than later. While being the only Surrogate of Sympati in the Kingdom's lifetime has gotten her a great amount of respect from the populace, many citizens in Etirath have begun to recently begun to ridicule the Lady of Pity's detachment.
Idvesta/Vengeance: Standing Army/ Guards
Etirath has suffered much in the past. Enemies of both man and beast has left a scare on these lands. Prosperity may be upon us now, but vigilance is need now more than ever. Affluence attracts the wicked, and the wicked will be met by blade, bow and battle. Strike with holy retribution, and protect all those the city holds dear.
Surrogate: Horel Frien
A Surrogate for ten years, Horel's track record has been described as a "curiosity". Elected the Surrogate of Idvesta after his displays of bravado and leadership against the enemies of Etirath, much of his history beforehand is either contradicting or nonexistent. Tales of his humble life as a farmhand circulate just as much as the story that he was born to a noble and raised in a far away land. Despite protestations however he remains vague about his past. Nevertheless, many would argue that his works excuse his tight lips. A warrior on the battle field and the court, Horel has grown a reputation for being as staunch as he is brutal. Debates between him and Kortite have been documented as legendary.
Svitani/Calling: Basic Workforce/Construction
Every hand was needed to rebuild the kingdom. Now every hand is needed to maintain it. Before and during the Rebirth, the Surrogate of Svitani was one of the most influential political figures in Etirath, behind only Theolandra herself. Now that the city has begun to stabilize and reconstruction is nearing an end, other Surrogates are finally gaining control over there respective spheres of influences, and the Surrogate of Svitani has become less potent in the political court.
Surrogate: Roti Den'Proc
See those buildings? Hear those church bells? Feel that road beneath your feet? Chances are Roti had them all commissioned herself. A Surrogate for twelve years now, she is still getting used to a great deal of her power being stripped away, however as long as construction is necessary, she remains pledged to Theolandra. Rebuilding Etirath was one of the most daunting tasks of it's time, and Roti was all too eager to accept it. Gaining prestige and the notice of Theolandra through hard work and sheer force of will, she expects nothing less from the kingdom's work force.
Noc/Night: Ambassadors/Inner-City Relations
The heat of battle may be warm in presence but it is hot to the touch. The kingdom wants as few enemies, and riots, as possible. The Surrogate of Noc is charged with making sure that that value stays as a veracity.
Surrogate: William Quall
The youngest of all Surrogates, William knows the horrors of war first hand, and works tirelessly to prevent them. A soldier for most of his life, he was very passionate toward the more competitive arts for a great deal of time. Rising through the ranks of Horel's army, he became fairly noteworthy of his prowess in battle and became a Captain. Rumors even began to spread of him potentially becoming the new Surrogate of Idvesta. However, things quickly took a turn south when a patrol for smugglers went awry. Taking not nearly as many troops with him as he was recommended, his ego proved the best of him. Ambushed, defeated, beaten, and left for dead, William was the only person to come back from patrol. He has since pledged to put down the sword and end violence however it may arise. While his poise as a leader occasionally shines through, he tries to suppress it for fear of what it may bring to him, and those he holds dear.
Udel/Destiny: Research/Commerce
The Surrogate of Udel is in charge of expanding the city's prowess in both economic and archaic attributes. Were it not for Udel, man would not desire for greater things. Were it not for his Surrogate, they would never have the means of doing so.
Surrogate: Alterno Beel
A quite character, Alterno has preferred to keep to himself for most of his political carrier, much to the displeasure of the other surrogates. In the rare event that he speaks, one might hear a shard of distain in his voice. Or perhaps it is curiosity. It really is hard to tell. Either way, his inventions and innovations speak for themselves. A priest of Udel before becoming a Surrogate, Alterno's life has not changed much. He still builds, still graphs, and still charts up his findings. Now Theolandra just has to force him to publish them and occasionally listen to other priests magical jargon. Indeed, the past nineteen years with him in office have been...odd.