Aya Clarke
Lady Clarke, Saint of the Crimson Eagle
Images: N/A unless needed
System Information
Name: Aelozath
Region: Unknown Regions
System: Talius System
Suns: Singular sun, F-type main sequence star, Lumias
Orbital Position: 2nd, Habitable zone
Moons: One, Mantus
System Features: Two planets, Gustan (uninhabitable due to proximity to star) and Aelozath
Coordinates: X 13 Y 4 (13-4)
Planetary Specifics
Rotational Period: 28 Hours
Orbital Period: 436 days
Seasonal rotation: Seasons are split into three seasons. The 'Cold' season starts off the year, lasting 130 days of the year. This is followed by the 'Warm' season lasting 145 days, and ended with the 'cool' season of 161 days.
Class: Terrestrial
Diameter: 13,892 km
Atmosphere: Type One
Climate: Temperate
Gravity: Equivalent to earth
Primary Terrain: Mainly consists of grasslands and forested regions, with several small, isolated deserts and one large desert. Numerous mountain regions dot the land, with the largest lying to the southern border of the world's one large desert. Little under half the planet consists of oceans and other bodies of water.
If one were to quantify it, they'd find it roughly 25% Grasslands, 5% Mountains, 25% Forested regions, 40% Ocean, 5% Desert
Population, Economic, and Geographical Information
Native Species: Human (since time immemorial)
Immigrated Species: Twi'lek, Togruta, Rodian, Various others
Primary Languages: Galactic Basic, Ryl (Twi'leki)
Government: Feudal Monarchy
Population: 43 Million. Human (55%), Twi'lek (23%), Various small denominations (22%)
Demonym: Aelozian
Major Imports: Medicinal supplies, Tools, Fuel, Technology
Major Exports: Iron ore, Bronzium, most other metal ores in lesser frequency (No restricted ores), Tourism
Affiliation: Self affiliated
Major Locations:
- Kalis City -
The largest, oldest, and amusingly enough the most technologically advanced city on Aelozath. The city sprawls over the largest space of land, with several layers of walls showing it's expansion. These have come to represent different 'Districts' to the city itself. The Innermost 'District' houses the reigning Monarch's Castle, which in turn serves as the seat of power to the Kingdom as a whole. Each layer out houses lieges, Knights, and those fortunate enough to work the land and jobs within the City proper.
- City of Messengers -
The only major spaceport on the planet is, effectively, a city unto itself. Home to enough docking pads to serve the planets interests as a whole, the spaceport also happens to be the only place on the entire planet outsiders can carry blaster and slugthrower weapons. Similarly, the place is run by those who have willingly given up their honor to carry as well, and ensure anyone stepping foot outside holds no weapons themselves. Most of the spaceport's city structure is devoted to marketplaces, where anything can be bought and sold for the right price.
- The Sarengoli Mines -
To the north of Kalis City lies the great Sarengol Mountains, and beyond that the Great Desert. Both of these areas are rich in metal ores, and since the fall of the Sarengol Kingdom, both have been safe to mine freely. Extensive and deep, the mines pay well to the common folk, allowing them to live comfortably as those within the Kingdom's walls.
- Great Graveyard of Aeloz -
To the east of Kalis City lies a somber sight, a massive field of once lush grass blackened and made barren from war. The ruins of a great city and massive castle lie here, and as one walks through the area they notice thousands of grave markers placed about. Ancient stones are marred with some of the few blaster bolt markings on the planet, and in the center lies a small shrine dedicated to the lives lost in Aeloz so long ago.
- General Cultural beliefs -
Tracing their history, one might expect an extremely strict, authoritarian sort of populace to call Aelozath home, yet these are perhaps the most open minded and egalitarian people of the galaxy. Not only is roughly 45% of their population non-human, in other words 'alien', a massive section of their human population aren't natural born Aelozaians either. Aelozian culture dictates that even those not born of their soil can become Aelozian if they are willing to adopt their rules. Even to those who are unable or unwilling to adopt their rules for permanent life, they welcome visitors with open arms, and full confidence they understand the implications of attempting to betray their trust.
- Government -
Government in Aelozath is intricately tied to normal, everyday life. A heavily regulated 'caste' system is in place, wherein both upward and downward mobility are very possible yet hard to achieve. The lowest 'caste' comes in the line of the sarif, those who work hard labor jobs, ranging from agriculture to manufacturing in the cities, or even mining in the Sarengoli mines. These are the lowest in 'power' and with few or no supporters. Yet they are not slaves, for they are as sentient as anyone. They willingly serve their Knight or liege patron, that they might live with the comfort of their protection. A number of the professional military are of this caste as well, with the most basic of training and little to lose.
Those with more power, prestige, and support are known as knights. These are the members of the 'warrior nobility', who have proven themselves in combat, or otherwise gained valuable support, and pledge themselves to their King and to their liege patron. They control smaller plots of land, where their sarif serve the expected roles, and are granted the greatest of military educations possible. Curiously, children of lieges are often delegated to knight status, rather than lieges in their own right.
Lieges are further along, no less powerful warriors than a knight, however they hold far more support and political power than a knight. They control large swathes of land, with hundreds or even thousands of sarif, and often many knights in their service. lieges make their vows of honor to the King, and are honor bound to gather their knights should defense of the Kingdom be necessary. In turn, they are protected by the King, who grants them their power.
The highest of high, the King, or monarch as situation demands, is the most powerful being in the Kingdom. They hold absolute power, dictated by their support of the people and their own personal ability. They are responsible for the defense of their people, and their health, and prosperity, in turn for this power. A monarch in Aelozath is only as powerful as the support they hold. An unpopular king will inevitably fall.
- Military -
The most honored profession on Aelozath, despite their people's dislike for war, the military of Aelozath is notable for its complete lack of blasters and projectile weapons of similar design. Every soldier is, instead, granted armor, a riot shield, and a weapon for melee to engage their foes, along with the training to wield it. Since the destruction of Aeloz, the weapons have become seen as a sign of weakness, and a desire to hurt even those who are undeserving. As such, they are expressly banned, save the City of Sky Walkers where those who have lost everything stand as the guards between Aelozath and the world outside.
Heavily armored knights with blaster protective shields and armor are not uncommon sights patrolling the streets and villages. Expert craftsmanship since time immemorial is their specialty, after all.
Their navy is also notable, particularly for its size. Seven ships, yes, but all of old Galactic Alliance frigates, from the time of the Yuuzhan Vong war. They've been repaired many times over, and are in desperate need of replacements.
- Religion -
The ancient religion once worshiping their 'Goddess' is not forbidden, however it has dimmed much since return to the galaxy at large. However many of its core tenets have leaked into modern life. For example, the 'sacred vows' to uphold duty and honor are still taken upon one's 16th birthday, and most marriages are still vaguely religious in nature. Furthermore, it is commonplace to recognize notable achievements, and be rewarded in kind. It was the belief of the old religion that achievement should be rewarded with recognition, which forms the modern foundation of their hierarchical system.
- Jedi and Sith -
There is one point of contention in recent history. The Aelozian people have come to understand the Jedi and Sith as poor in taste as the old Sarengoli once were, warmongering villains who believe themselves just. Between the One Sith, the Jedi Order, and every variation since, only war has come from their existence. Whilst they will not actively seek out and destroy these individuals, should they come to the planet, they are noticeably hostile to these groups should their allegiances become known. Notable exceptions include those who aren't expressly dogmatic and open, truly open, to listening, or those who wish to leave their old world behind.
- Notable Holidays -
The main holiday recognized by all Aelozians is commonly referred to as 'The Bloody Remembrance'. Every new year, on the 1st day, it is spent in quiet remembrance of the Kingdom of Aeloz. Many make pilgrimages to the Great Graveyard to pay their respects to the innocent lives lost, and reflect upon the tragedies that brought about such needless violence. It is not meant to be a truly happy day, but one of importance none the less. It is also tradition to reaffirm one's oaths on this day, be they to a loved one, to one's monarch, or otherwise.
'The Queen's Day', celebrated the 131st day of the year to kick off the warm season, is primarily celebrated in the Kingdom of Kalis. To celebrate the great Queen and her accomplishments in restoring peace to the world, by becoming powerful enough that even the then-brutal Sarengoli kingdom came to the light of reason, a grand festival is held within the city's squares. Performers from across the kingdom come to preform plays, reenactments, and comedic skits of the event, entertaining adults and children with tales of the Queen's exploits... be they true or not. The day is a merry festival that brings all kinds together, including the monarch, to remember the roots of their great kingdom.
A significantly less depressing holiday frequently celebrated on the 275th day of the year (first day of the cool season) is known as the 'Joining'. This day is spent in honor of the Twi'lek kingdom and all those who have become Aelozian, as a recognition for their superb performance in adopting their ancient, honorable ways. It serves to help remind the people to remain open to the galaxy, for many souls are yet honorable and just. The day is spent with many small parades, festivals, and even dueling tournaments. The reigning monarch has even been known to come and tell grand tales of Aelozian bravery to the small children on this day. Though not as large a festival as Queen's Day, it does often bring a smile to unite together as one culture.
- Technology -
Thanks to the intervention of explorers, their technology has advanced to relatively modern times. Most of the population uses dated technology, though no more than a couple centuries out of touch with modern time, while lieges and Kings enjoy the perks of almost perfectly modern technology. However, outside of 'siege weapons' or defensive towers, Blaster and Slugthrower technology is expressly forbidden.
- Titles -
A highly important part of Aelozian life is titles, which signify one's place within society. The reigning monarch is known as the 'King' or 'Queen' based on their preference, and is properly addressed with this title. Lieges are titled 'Sire' or 'Lady, again based on preference . Knights, regardless of gender, are given the prefix 'Ser' to signify their position in the heirarchy. Sarifs, the lowest caste, are referred to as 'Mr.', 'Ms.', 'Mrs.' Or any job-related titles they might hold. Note that while a 'Dr.' might also qualify as a knight, their title 'Ser' supersedes 'Dr.' unless they are on active duty.
Several hundred years before Order 66, Aelozath was discovered by curious explorers wanting to stake their claim to the galaxy. These explorers, curiously left unnamed, found the planet and made their way to land, assuming it to be completely uninhabited. Much to their surprise, there seemed to be a fairly large community of Humans on the planet, and not only that they were technologically inferior to the Explorers. The people were curious, and began to approach the crew, who they thought of as 'messengers descended upon them from the Heavens' to bear the word of their Goddess.
The Explorers soon enough became enthralled with the strangely simple lives of these people. They lived in not the democracy they understood, but in a true monarchy, with sarif tilling the land for the protection of their lieges. The Explorers soon became divided in what they wished to do with the people. Some members of the crew enjoyed being treated like divinity, and wished to milk it for all it was worth, while others wished to help advance this civilization. Unable to reach an agreement, each side soon went their separate ways, and with them they took lieges and sarif each.
Thus the two ancient Kingdoms of old were born, the militaristic kingdom of Sarengol, and the more open minded kingdom of Aeloz. To both, they viewed the 'other' as something to be despised, for their brutish violence or for their weakness. Generations passed, and the kingdoms were left forgotten to the galaxy at large for many more to come.
They wouldn't be rediscovered until the fall of the Galactic Empire, fortunate to scrape by the events unscathed. Probe droids had landed on the planet, fortunately far away from the people. The Empire had little use for a world without people to subjugate or military value, and as such they had no use to send a force to occupy it. And in the time they failed to intervene, the two Kingdoms had splinted several times over. While both still reigned as the highest kingdoms of the land, many smaller kingdoms began to sprout up, forming their own systems like those of the Aeloz and the Sarengol.
When New Republic settlers arrived, to escape war with the Remnant, and the Yuuzhan Vong, it was one of these smaller kingdoms they found. The people welcomed more 'messengers', eagerly expecting them to share in their wondrous technology as the ones of old once did. However, the appearance of locals frightened these settlers, and war began to tear into the countryside.
Because of the early impact of the old Explorers, and many of the people's fear of other kingdoms using dishonorable technology, the people had developed armor resistant to blaster fire, through use of armorweaves underneath as well as superior design, and their large shields helped to prevent direct blows. More importantly, however, they had communications systems, alerting other kingdoms, who in turn alerted others, of the insidious nature of these strange messengers. It was no surprise then that the two great Kingdoms took interest, and gathered their military elite to lead armies to investigate for themselves.
By the time both arrived, the Settlers had been wiped out, alongside many local soldiers. These strange beings, with tails instead of hair, or masked faces, or any other assortment of strange body parts, they made no sense. The people looked nothing like the messengers that had arrived before, that looked like them.
A pact was made between the Kingdoms that day, that their old hatreds should be set aside should further messengers like these come to their lands. And so time and again, settlers would come only to be greeted by blood and steel of the two great Kingdoms, until finally rumors of this final destination was made aware to the Governments at large. A force of human troops landed, ready to meet violent resistance, and once more shocked to be greeted with open arms.
In the coming months, the then Galactic Alliance would send a representative to greet them, and hopefully teach them more of the galaxy. Known as the 'Mother of Modern Aelozath', the woman sent was known to the rest of the galaxy as 'Maya Kaylith'. It is thanks to her that history becomes uneventful for several hundred years, and for the construction of the Grand Spaceport to help the people come to terms with the reality of the galaxy.
From the year 34 ABY to 428 ABY have grown as a planet. Though blasters are still restricted from their highly ingrained sense of honor, formed from hundreds of years of their feudal systems, their castles and fortresses have come to resemble modern installations. Every sort of convenience imaginable, though the populace still segregates themselves to their place based on their power and support. Even so, the planet has become content, and even forgiving of the strange 'messengers' they now know of as Twi'leks, Kel Dor, and a whole host of colorful aliens.
They were opened with welcome arms, and eagerly welcomed to their honor-bound lifestyle. This age also included the construction of a Kingdom ruled by a Twi'lek monarch, who adopted the culture so thoroughly none questioned his right to rule. This stood as their proudest achievement as a collective culture. Long gone were the ages of pure hereditary rule. Now, even those who were not born of Kingly nature could rule, if the people were willing to follow. In a way, it was truly an egalitarian monarchy, perhaps a step towards some form of democracy.
Unfortunately, the year 428 ABY would be known as the beginning of the planet's darkest days, and destroy much of the planet's social progress. Shortly after the Galactic Alliance went silent, and the planet was aware of the 'Gulag virus' they went on high alert, using their small, purchased navy to guard their space and prevent any from landing on their planet. It would ultimately fail, as several infected settlers managed to circumvent the makeshift navy and settle onto the surface. The virus was like wildfire, consuming the small population within months, and creating ghost towns within days.
Panic ensued, as kingdom after kingdom declared the others responsible for the outbreak, and began to angrily wage war upon the others. Yet none were as frightfully competent at war as the Sarengoli, who blamed the Aeloz's peaceful ways for their current plight. In secret, they had developed Blaster technology for rifles, and marched to end the Aloz for their incompetence. With forbidden technology, it came to little surprise their siege would prove successful, yet at the cost of thousands upon thousands of innocent lives.
The Sarengoli used their own Gulag laden corpses as weapons, infecting those who they conquered, and slaughtered the innocent as easily as the soldiers. They declared their kingdom supreme, and left the shattered remains of the city to rot as a reminder to their power.
The Four Hundred Year Darkness was two fold for the people of the planet, for whilst they were suffering both from their lack of outside communications, but the people lived in fear of the Sarengoli, who would crush any who stood in their way. Kingdom after kingdom would be violently crushed, as they dared to express their concerns with the Sarengoli. Deep in their hearts, they had begun to fear war.
In the year 820 ABY this would soon come to a close. The four hundred years would take another fifteen years to truly end, yet now at last the seeds of rebellion would sprout. A small kingdom, ruled by Queen Nia, long may the sun shine upon her, began to garner support from other kingdoms who, as she did, feared the coming of the Sarengoli armies. Together they began to build a magnificent city, a fortress unlike any the Sarengoli had yet encountered. In time, more kingdoms would join her cause, as she would garner both power and respect among the people.
Three times the city grew, and with each expansion the Sarengoli only grew more fearful. Yet, the people they feared truly were architects of their time. The walls were great, and their defenses mighty. And their most powerful weapon, the Gulag plague itself, had long since been quiet. When at last the Sarengoli would come to meet their enemy, it was not as conquering warlords, but as equals seeking an agreement. To the Sarengoli, the mountain kingdoms, to the new kingdom of Kalis the plains and all the land they had gained in their grown. It was a deal made in fear, and one that would not be regretted.
And it was such that Kalis was born, and the Kingdom was not wanting for succor. Their lands were plentiful, and even the old religions were thriving in prosperity among them. For in such darkness, the warmth of old hopes was enough to keep them going, to the day their communications came back, and the City of Messengers was revived once more. The year was now 835, the age of Dark was over.
Blasters across the world were forbidden once more, and the Aeloz city was turned into the monument to their destructive powers, and their ultimate fate. A blaster was nothing more than a savage excuse to kill innocents in their collective memory, and the planet was renamed to honor the memory of the great Kingdom, despite Sarengoli objections.
On the day of 12th Taungsday, 844 ABY, it was once more a reminder to the people how fragile they were without a Monarch. Thousands of their citizens disappeared, among them mostly were the Sarengoli, leaving their fortress empire an empty, ghostly fortress city, and a number of lieges of Kalis. Among these lieges was none other than Queen Nia, who had yet to pass her crown to her worthiest of children, and left them without a will. Panic became the main emotion of the people, as the children disagreed who among them was worthy of the crown, and threatened them with war.
It was, fortunately, prevented by the youngest of them, who reminded them of their ancient but valid laws. That those with power, and support, were the most fit to lead. And so each child stood before the lieges, the knights, the sarifs, and asked in turn who would stand with them. In the end, the eldest was most powerful, and the people would most willingly serve him. The crown was to be his, and his children in turn made heirs.
His siblings would remain prince and princess, with liegeship and knightdom their rewards for honorably choosing to uphold the law almost forgotten in the confusion. And so the King reigned, quietly, waiting to see how the future would play out. Any with the support of the people could replace him as King, and the child he had with support could in turn become King themselves. But these laws existed for a reason, to make succession something calm, and peaceful.
The planet would remain Aelozath, ruled by many Kings and Queens. To each their kingdom of power, and to each the land they would rightfully own. But to the King of Kalis, control over Kalis city, and the City of Messengers. Such was befitting of the new, and singular, Great Kingdom.
OOC information
Notable PCs: Aya Clarke
Intent: The purpose has always been to envision an updated, secular version of old-school feudalistic monarchies and provide a home for Aya Clarke and those wishing to take part in a more traditional monarchy. The board was, to my knowledge, sorely lacking in that feudalistic aestetic despite having a sizable number of monarchies. Hopefully this corrects that somewhat.
Links: Image for position cut from March 1st, 2017 map update: http://i.imgur.com/auFESoG.jpg
System Information
Name: Aelozath
Region: Unknown Regions
System: Talius System
Suns: Singular sun, F-type main sequence star, Lumias
Orbital Position: 2nd, Habitable zone
Moons: One, Mantus
System Features: Two planets, Gustan (uninhabitable due to proximity to star) and Aelozath
Coordinates: X 13 Y 4 (13-4)
Planetary Specifics
Rotational Period: 28 Hours
Orbital Period: 436 days
Seasonal rotation: Seasons are split into three seasons. The 'Cold' season starts off the year, lasting 130 days of the year. This is followed by the 'Warm' season lasting 145 days, and ended with the 'cool' season of 161 days.
Class: Terrestrial
Diameter: 13,892 km
Atmosphere: Type One
Climate: Temperate
Gravity: Equivalent to earth
Primary Terrain: Mainly consists of grasslands and forested regions, with several small, isolated deserts and one large desert. Numerous mountain regions dot the land, with the largest lying to the southern border of the world's one large desert. Little under half the planet consists of oceans and other bodies of water.
If one were to quantify it, they'd find it roughly 25% Grasslands, 5% Mountains, 25% Forested regions, 40% Ocean, 5% Desert
Population, Economic, and Geographical Information
Native Species: Human (since time immemorial)
Immigrated Species: Twi'lek, Togruta, Rodian, Various others
Primary Languages: Galactic Basic, Ryl (Twi'leki)
Government: Feudal Monarchy
Population: 43 Million. Human (55%), Twi'lek (23%), Various small denominations (22%)
Demonym: Aelozian
Major Imports: Medicinal supplies, Tools, Fuel, Technology
Major Exports: Iron ore, Bronzium, most other metal ores in lesser frequency (No restricted ores), Tourism
Affiliation: Self affiliated
Major Locations:
- Kalis City -
The largest, oldest, and amusingly enough the most technologically advanced city on Aelozath. The city sprawls over the largest space of land, with several layers of walls showing it's expansion. These have come to represent different 'Districts' to the city itself. The Innermost 'District' houses the reigning Monarch's Castle, which in turn serves as the seat of power to the Kingdom as a whole. Each layer out houses lieges, Knights, and those fortunate enough to work the land and jobs within the City proper.
- City of Messengers -
The only major spaceport on the planet is, effectively, a city unto itself. Home to enough docking pads to serve the planets interests as a whole, the spaceport also happens to be the only place on the entire planet outsiders can carry blaster and slugthrower weapons. Similarly, the place is run by those who have willingly given up their honor to carry as well, and ensure anyone stepping foot outside holds no weapons themselves. Most of the spaceport's city structure is devoted to marketplaces, where anything can be bought and sold for the right price.
- The Sarengoli Mines -
To the north of Kalis City lies the great Sarengol Mountains, and beyond that the Great Desert. Both of these areas are rich in metal ores, and since the fall of the Sarengol Kingdom, both have been safe to mine freely. Extensive and deep, the mines pay well to the common folk, allowing them to live comfortably as those within the Kingdom's walls.
- Great Graveyard of Aeloz -
To the east of Kalis City lies a somber sight, a massive field of once lush grass blackened and made barren from war. The ruins of a great city and massive castle lie here, and as one walks through the area they notice thousands of grave markers placed about. Ancient stones are marred with some of the few blaster bolt markings on the planet, and in the center lies a small shrine dedicated to the lives lost in Aeloz so long ago.
Cultural information
- General Cultural beliefs -
Tracing their history, one might expect an extremely strict, authoritarian sort of populace to call Aelozath home, yet these are perhaps the most open minded and egalitarian people of the galaxy. Not only is roughly 45% of their population non-human, in other words 'alien', a massive section of their human population aren't natural born Aelozaians either. Aelozian culture dictates that even those not born of their soil can become Aelozian if they are willing to adopt their rules. Even to those who are unable or unwilling to adopt their rules for permanent life, they welcome visitors with open arms, and full confidence they understand the implications of attempting to betray their trust.
- Government -
Government in Aelozath is intricately tied to normal, everyday life. A heavily regulated 'caste' system is in place, wherein both upward and downward mobility are very possible yet hard to achieve. The lowest 'caste' comes in the line of the sarif, those who work hard labor jobs, ranging from agriculture to manufacturing in the cities, or even mining in the Sarengoli mines. These are the lowest in 'power' and with few or no supporters. Yet they are not slaves, for they are as sentient as anyone. They willingly serve their Knight or liege patron, that they might live with the comfort of their protection. A number of the professional military are of this caste as well, with the most basic of training and little to lose.
Those with more power, prestige, and support are known as knights. These are the members of the 'warrior nobility', who have proven themselves in combat, or otherwise gained valuable support, and pledge themselves to their King and to their liege patron. They control smaller plots of land, where their sarif serve the expected roles, and are granted the greatest of military educations possible. Curiously, children of lieges are often delegated to knight status, rather than lieges in their own right.
Lieges are further along, no less powerful warriors than a knight, however they hold far more support and political power than a knight. They control large swathes of land, with hundreds or even thousands of sarif, and often many knights in their service. lieges make their vows of honor to the King, and are honor bound to gather their knights should defense of the Kingdom be necessary. In turn, they are protected by the King, who grants them their power.
The highest of high, the King, or monarch as situation demands, is the most powerful being in the Kingdom. They hold absolute power, dictated by their support of the people and their own personal ability. They are responsible for the defense of their people, and their health, and prosperity, in turn for this power. A monarch in Aelozath is only as powerful as the support they hold. An unpopular king will inevitably fall.
- Military -
The most honored profession on Aelozath, despite their people's dislike for war, the military of Aelozath is notable for its complete lack of blasters and projectile weapons of similar design. Every soldier is, instead, granted armor, a riot shield, and a weapon for melee to engage their foes, along with the training to wield it. Since the destruction of Aeloz, the weapons have become seen as a sign of weakness, and a desire to hurt even those who are undeserving. As such, they are expressly banned, save the City of Sky Walkers where those who have lost everything stand as the guards between Aelozath and the world outside.
Heavily armored knights with blaster protective shields and armor are not uncommon sights patrolling the streets and villages. Expert craftsmanship since time immemorial is their specialty, after all.
Their navy is also notable, particularly for its size. Seven ships, yes, but all of old Galactic Alliance frigates, from the time of the Yuuzhan Vong war. They've been repaired many times over, and are in desperate need of replacements.
- Religion -
The ancient religion once worshiping their 'Goddess' is not forbidden, however it has dimmed much since return to the galaxy at large. However many of its core tenets have leaked into modern life. For example, the 'sacred vows' to uphold duty and honor are still taken upon one's 16th birthday, and most marriages are still vaguely religious in nature. Furthermore, it is commonplace to recognize notable achievements, and be rewarded in kind. It was the belief of the old religion that achievement should be rewarded with recognition, which forms the modern foundation of their hierarchical system.
- Jedi and Sith -
There is one point of contention in recent history. The Aelozian people have come to understand the Jedi and Sith as poor in taste as the old Sarengoli once were, warmongering villains who believe themselves just. Between the One Sith, the Jedi Order, and every variation since, only war has come from their existence. Whilst they will not actively seek out and destroy these individuals, should they come to the planet, they are noticeably hostile to these groups should their allegiances become known. Notable exceptions include those who aren't expressly dogmatic and open, truly open, to listening, or those who wish to leave their old world behind.
- Notable Holidays -
The main holiday recognized by all Aelozians is commonly referred to as 'The Bloody Remembrance'. Every new year, on the 1st day, it is spent in quiet remembrance of the Kingdom of Aeloz. Many make pilgrimages to the Great Graveyard to pay their respects to the innocent lives lost, and reflect upon the tragedies that brought about such needless violence. It is not meant to be a truly happy day, but one of importance none the less. It is also tradition to reaffirm one's oaths on this day, be they to a loved one, to one's monarch, or otherwise.
'The Queen's Day', celebrated the 131st day of the year to kick off the warm season, is primarily celebrated in the Kingdom of Kalis. To celebrate the great Queen and her accomplishments in restoring peace to the world, by becoming powerful enough that even the then-brutal Sarengoli kingdom came to the light of reason, a grand festival is held within the city's squares. Performers from across the kingdom come to preform plays, reenactments, and comedic skits of the event, entertaining adults and children with tales of the Queen's exploits... be they true or not. The day is a merry festival that brings all kinds together, including the monarch, to remember the roots of their great kingdom.
A significantly less depressing holiday frequently celebrated on the 275th day of the year (first day of the cool season) is known as the 'Joining'. This day is spent in honor of the Twi'lek kingdom and all those who have become Aelozian, as a recognition for their superb performance in adopting their ancient, honorable ways. It serves to help remind the people to remain open to the galaxy, for many souls are yet honorable and just. The day is spent with many small parades, festivals, and even dueling tournaments. The reigning monarch has even been known to come and tell grand tales of Aelozian bravery to the small children on this day. Though not as large a festival as Queen's Day, it does often bring a smile to unite together as one culture.
- Technology -
Thanks to the intervention of explorers, their technology has advanced to relatively modern times. Most of the population uses dated technology, though no more than a couple centuries out of touch with modern time, while lieges and Kings enjoy the perks of almost perfectly modern technology. However, outside of 'siege weapons' or defensive towers, Blaster and Slugthrower technology is expressly forbidden.
- Titles -
A highly important part of Aelozian life is titles, which signify one's place within society. The reigning monarch is known as the 'King' or 'Queen' based on their preference, and is properly addressed with this title. Lieges are titled 'Sire' or 'Lady, again based on preference . Knights, regardless of gender, are given the prefix 'Ser' to signify their position in the heirarchy. Sarifs, the lowest caste, are referred to as 'Mr.', 'Ms.', 'Mrs.' Or any job-related titles they might hold. Note that while a 'Dr.' might also qualify as a knight, their title 'Ser' supersedes 'Dr.' unless they are on active duty.
History
Several hundred years before Order 66, Aelozath was discovered by curious explorers wanting to stake their claim to the galaxy. These explorers, curiously left unnamed, found the planet and made their way to land, assuming it to be completely uninhabited. Much to their surprise, there seemed to be a fairly large community of Humans on the planet, and not only that they were technologically inferior to the Explorers. The people were curious, and began to approach the crew, who they thought of as 'messengers descended upon them from the Heavens' to bear the word of their Goddess.
The Explorers soon enough became enthralled with the strangely simple lives of these people. They lived in not the democracy they understood, but in a true monarchy, with sarif tilling the land for the protection of their lieges. The Explorers soon became divided in what they wished to do with the people. Some members of the crew enjoyed being treated like divinity, and wished to milk it for all it was worth, while others wished to help advance this civilization. Unable to reach an agreement, each side soon went their separate ways, and with them they took lieges and sarif each.
Thus the two ancient Kingdoms of old were born, the militaristic kingdom of Sarengol, and the more open minded kingdom of Aeloz. To both, they viewed the 'other' as something to be despised, for their brutish violence or for their weakness. Generations passed, and the kingdoms were left forgotten to the galaxy at large for many more to come.
They wouldn't be rediscovered until the fall of the Galactic Empire, fortunate to scrape by the events unscathed. Probe droids had landed on the planet, fortunately far away from the people. The Empire had little use for a world without people to subjugate or military value, and as such they had no use to send a force to occupy it. And in the time they failed to intervene, the two Kingdoms had splinted several times over. While both still reigned as the highest kingdoms of the land, many smaller kingdoms began to sprout up, forming their own systems like those of the Aeloz and the Sarengol.
When New Republic settlers arrived, to escape war with the Remnant, and the Yuuzhan Vong, it was one of these smaller kingdoms they found. The people welcomed more 'messengers', eagerly expecting them to share in their wondrous technology as the ones of old once did. However, the appearance of locals frightened these settlers, and war began to tear into the countryside.
Because of the early impact of the old Explorers, and many of the people's fear of other kingdoms using dishonorable technology, the people had developed armor resistant to blaster fire, through use of armorweaves underneath as well as superior design, and their large shields helped to prevent direct blows. More importantly, however, they had communications systems, alerting other kingdoms, who in turn alerted others, of the insidious nature of these strange messengers. It was no surprise then that the two great Kingdoms took interest, and gathered their military elite to lead armies to investigate for themselves.
By the time both arrived, the Settlers had been wiped out, alongside many local soldiers. These strange beings, with tails instead of hair, or masked faces, or any other assortment of strange body parts, they made no sense. The people looked nothing like the messengers that had arrived before, that looked like them.
A pact was made between the Kingdoms that day, that their old hatreds should be set aside should further messengers like these come to their lands. And so time and again, settlers would come only to be greeted by blood and steel of the two great Kingdoms, until finally rumors of this final destination was made aware to the Governments at large. A force of human troops landed, ready to meet violent resistance, and once more shocked to be greeted with open arms.
In the coming months, the then Galactic Alliance would send a representative to greet them, and hopefully teach them more of the galaxy. Known as the 'Mother of Modern Aelozath', the woman sent was known to the rest of the galaxy as 'Maya Kaylith'. It is thanks to her that history becomes uneventful for several hundred years, and for the construction of the Grand Spaceport to help the people come to terms with the reality of the galaxy.
From the year 34 ABY to 428 ABY have grown as a planet. Though blasters are still restricted from their highly ingrained sense of honor, formed from hundreds of years of their feudal systems, their castles and fortresses have come to resemble modern installations. Every sort of convenience imaginable, though the populace still segregates themselves to their place based on their power and support. Even so, the planet has become content, and even forgiving of the strange 'messengers' they now know of as Twi'leks, Kel Dor, and a whole host of colorful aliens.
They were opened with welcome arms, and eagerly welcomed to their honor-bound lifestyle. This age also included the construction of a Kingdom ruled by a Twi'lek monarch, who adopted the culture so thoroughly none questioned his right to rule. This stood as their proudest achievement as a collective culture. Long gone were the ages of pure hereditary rule. Now, even those who were not born of Kingly nature could rule, if the people were willing to follow. In a way, it was truly an egalitarian monarchy, perhaps a step towards some form of democracy.
Unfortunately, the year 428 ABY would be known as the beginning of the planet's darkest days, and destroy much of the planet's social progress. Shortly after the Galactic Alliance went silent, and the planet was aware of the 'Gulag virus' they went on high alert, using their small, purchased navy to guard their space and prevent any from landing on their planet. It would ultimately fail, as several infected settlers managed to circumvent the makeshift navy and settle onto the surface. The virus was like wildfire, consuming the small population within months, and creating ghost towns within days.
Panic ensued, as kingdom after kingdom declared the others responsible for the outbreak, and began to angrily wage war upon the others. Yet none were as frightfully competent at war as the Sarengoli, who blamed the Aeloz's peaceful ways for their current plight. In secret, they had developed Blaster technology for rifles, and marched to end the Aloz for their incompetence. With forbidden technology, it came to little surprise their siege would prove successful, yet at the cost of thousands upon thousands of innocent lives.
The Sarengoli used their own Gulag laden corpses as weapons, infecting those who they conquered, and slaughtered the innocent as easily as the soldiers. They declared their kingdom supreme, and left the shattered remains of the city to rot as a reminder to their power.
The Four Hundred Year Darkness was two fold for the people of the planet, for whilst they were suffering both from their lack of outside communications, but the people lived in fear of the Sarengoli, who would crush any who stood in their way. Kingdom after kingdom would be violently crushed, as they dared to express their concerns with the Sarengoli. Deep in their hearts, they had begun to fear war.
In the year 820 ABY this would soon come to a close. The four hundred years would take another fifteen years to truly end, yet now at last the seeds of rebellion would sprout. A small kingdom, ruled by Queen Nia, long may the sun shine upon her, began to garner support from other kingdoms who, as she did, feared the coming of the Sarengoli armies. Together they began to build a magnificent city, a fortress unlike any the Sarengoli had yet encountered. In time, more kingdoms would join her cause, as she would garner both power and respect among the people.
Three times the city grew, and with each expansion the Sarengoli only grew more fearful. Yet, the people they feared truly were architects of their time. The walls were great, and their defenses mighty. And their most powerful weapon, the Gulag plague itself, had long since been quiet. When at last the Sarengoli would come to meet their enemy, it was not as conquering warlords, but as equals seeking an agreement. To the Sarengoli, the mountain kingdoms, to the new kingdom of Kalis the plains and all the land they had gained in their grown. It was a deal made in fear, and one that would not be regretted.
And it was such that Kalis was born, and the Kingdom was not wanting for succor. Their lands were plentiful, and even the old religions were thriving in prosperity among them. For in such darkness, the warmth of old hopes was enough to keep them going, to the day their communications came back, and the City of Messengers was revived once more. The year was now 835, the age of Dark was over.
Blasters across the world were forbidden once more, and the Aeloz city was turned into the monument to their destructive powers, and their ultimate fate. A blaster was nothing more than a savage excuse to kill innocents in their collective memory, and the planet was renamed to honor the memory of the great Kingdom, despite Sarengoli objections.
On the day of 12th Taungsday, 844 ABY, it was once more a reminder to the people how fragile they were without a Monarch. Thousands of their citizens disappeared, among them mostly were the Sarengoli, leaving their fortress empire an empty, ghostly fortress city, and a number of lieges of Kalis. Among these lieges was none other than Queen Nia, who had yet to pass her crown to her worthiest of children, and left them without a will. Panic became the main emotion of the people, as the children disagreed who among them was worthy of the crown, and threatened them with war.
It was, fortunately, prevented by the youngest of them, who reminded them of their ancient but valid laws. That those with power, and support, were the most fit to lead. And so each child stood before the lieges, the knights, the sarifs, and asked in turn who would stand with them. In the end, the eldest was most powerful, and the people would most willingly serve him. The crown was to be his, and his children in turn made heirs.
His siblings would remain prince and princess, with liegeship and knightdom their rewards for honorably choosing to uphold the law almost forgotten in the confusion. And so the King reigned, quietly, waiting to see how the future would play out. Any with the support of the people could replace him as King, and the child he had with support could in turn become King themselves. But these laws existed for a reason, to make succession something calm, and peaceful.
The planet would remain Aelozath, ruled by many Kings and Queens. To each their kingdom of power, and to each the land they would rightfully own. But to the King of Kalis, control over Kalis city, and the City of Messengers. Such was befitting of the new, and singular, Great Kingdom.
OOC information
Intent: The purpose has always been to envision an updated, secular version of old-school feudalistic monarchies and provide a home for Aya Clarke and those wishing to take part in a more traditional monarchy. The board was, to my knowledge, sorely lacking in that feudalistic aestetic despite having a sizable number of monarchies. Hopefully this corrects that somewhat.
Links: Image for position cut from March 1st, 2017 map update: http://i.imgur.com/auFESoG.jpg
