Post by Farrelei on Oct 1, 2010 23:21:17 GMT 10
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Out-of-Character Discussion
Vadaa - Original[/u][/size][/center]
In this first post, I'd like to compile a list of all the current major locations, religions and basic Governmental Structures since Search for the Skies, and what their status is in the Red Sea roleplay. Only a brief description, though.
We'll start with the locations...
The locations and their geographical situations are below (political is in the section below this):
The Eron Continent[/u][/size]
Gardaine[/color] is essentially the world superpower. It was previously known, after it grew to be the new Capital, to be Central Immestrial, and thus the Center of the Empire.
Whilst that ideaology was rejected by Empress Eleanore during her reign, Gardaine remains the primary residence of the Sovereign of the Immestrial Empire, and some consider Shelrair's reign to have reinstated the traditional capitalisation of the state.
The majority of Gardaine is essentially a Victorian-Era metropolis. With the development of an Energy Research Organisation and Centre within Gardaine a year after the fall of the Ashrose Castle, Gardaine has attempted to surpass it's sister, Hangyakunin, in being the technological power of the world - whilst it hasn't succeeded, it has developed many new technologies indepenently, but still relies on new technologies from Hangyakunin from time to time.
There is a wall to the North (and less densly populated area) of Gardaine, blocking the city off from the Forest there (this isn't the Forest Siberius is born in, or that Serenfas lives in now) - this reaches down to part of the South outskirts, but the Forest is much less dense there. The East and South outskirts of the country are floushring marketplaces, and have extended the size of Gardaine immensly over the years, continuing to grow the nation. There are 3 walls altogether that surround Gardaine, the Outer Wall, The Middle Wall and the Inner Wall that have been built in a matter of years to repel opposing forces and to also grow the continuously expanding nation.
Despite all its grandeur, roughly one quarter of Gardaine remains slums, and attempts to clean these up and find employment and support for the residents there have been unsuccessful. The centre of the slums is referred to by the people as the Phoenix District, as the people claim the building complex they have reinforced and set up there was once the Imperial Airship Phoenix, which crashed there over 17 years ago. This region is predominantly unpoliced, the people there living in their own kind of anarchy.
The Great Forest, Reisi:[/color] This forest, that covers half the entire Eron Continent, was once home to many tribes of Ancients living among the trees. Over the centuries, it grew to be inhabited only by the animals that called it home, and a rare few hunters and recluses who preferred it's solitary comfort.
As the Rebellion expanded, it set up bases and outposts along the outskirts of, and inside the Forest. Some of these still remain untouched to this day, whilst others have been ransacked, destroyed or newly-inhabited.
There are still a few tribes remaining in the Forest - descended from Ancients - however, these have lost all contact with their inner selves and abilities therefore that the Ancients controlled, and are more or less savages, hardly even speaking a language. The population of the Forest has grown over the years, but not significantly. It is still incredibly rare to find another once inside. Unless, of course, you're wandering around Yensera.
The Villages of Yensera[/color] are a collection of tightly-knit villages that were established over the last 16 years by the remnants of Serenfas. It is named using the language of the Corans - Ancients who once resided in what has become Gardaine (Yen=Granted safety, Sera=The Goddess Sera, their patron deity [literally meaning Sera's Safety]).
The villages are mostly close, however there are some exceptions (the trading village Murka, a smaller village [Dew] in the heart of the Forest, also used as a checkpoint between Murka and the Central Village [which is referred to as Yensera or Serenfas], and a community set up in one of the old Rebel Bases, simply titled 'Headquarters', which serves as a residence and training point for new mercenaries of the Organisation, or outpost guards and watchmen).
Most of the villages are situated around the central village, where the Sire and the Yensera Council gather every week. The tallest building in Yensera (apart from Headquarters, of course) lies here, and is the primary residence of the Sire and several other Senior Members of the Organisation, but also doubles as the location of the Library. The other mainly important village is connected to the central village, and has no official name (but it known as 'Coran' [meaning home of] to others), and is a moderately-sized stone building complex which is heavily guarded and restricted to the Elders or their guests only.
Ilridge is a medium-sized city located South-East from Gardaine, it is a very thin city that is spread across a very large cliff formation. Monstrous ocean waves hav crashed against it's foundations for centuries, shaping underwater caverns that are visited once a year when the tides go down, and because it is done on a yearly basis for one week, the people of Ilridge have a celebration. Ilridge possesses the most valuable and varied range of fish, and as such developed a fishing town that is in contact with hundreds of countries that seek the ocean life this community collects. Ilridge is currently the home of Siberius and his family after fleeing from Gardaine.
The Mountains of Vuerria: A millennium ago, the Mountains of Vuerria was home to a very powerful race, the ancient of the ancients, within it contains intricate tunnel networks(similar to that of the Descendants' headquarters) and one of the three Altars. The Empress of Gardaine, Shelrair, has been attempting to excavate the Mountains, but it's entrance has been sealed, it's connections been destroyed and it's entrails hidden.
The Silstriana Continent[/u][/size]
Ranra:[/color] The Kingdom of Ranra is the largest dominion outside of the Immestrial Empire. After the assasination of a handful of it's most prominent officials, Ranra and Immestrial fell into bad terms with each other. This was later resolved, however, and currently they act as powerful allies to one another.
Capital State is the capital of the Kingdom, and its second-largest city, also acting as the primary residence of the current King. Capital State is a much cleaner city than Hangyakunin or Gardaine, but nowhere near the size of the latter.
Ranra's largest city Wesleton, however, could well compete with Hangyakunin in size. Wesleton is a lot less cleaner than Capital State. There is a huge harbour on the outskirts of the city, which is also home to the worlds' most powerful navy fleet. The buildings in Wessleton are decorated in reds and whites, however a current trend is blooming in which new architecture is being decorated in blues - the love of colour and decoration stems back to the Old Religion that was prominent in the land centuries ago.
Lious[/color] is a moderately-sized citystate at the centre of the continent. It was originally established a century ago by Ranran protestors, and grew from a town, to a city, to a nation in its own right. Due to this, the Liousians broke away from the Kingdom, and were ruling independently until the Immestrial Empire took over the region 40 years ago in order to secure a foothold in the region. After disputes with the Kingdom of Ranra, who saw this as a threat, a war broke out between Imperial Lious and the Kingdom. After a year, the Empire surrendered Lious to Ranra, who liberated it and allowed it to grow as an independant nation once more. Since then, Ranra and Lious have been fond allies.
Despite this, however, after an invitation 3 years ago to join the Empire once more, Lious signed an agreement to become a joint diarchy, run by both the President of Lious and Imperator of Immestrial.
A major river runs through the centre of Lious, dividing it into two sections. Bridges connect the two states at intervals. In order to contrast with the Ranran love of colour, Lious was built a primary white, and has remained mainly the 'White City' since. The Presidential Palace is situated on a man-made island on the lake to the East of the nation, and is currently used by the President himself and Governor-General.
Eau Marché[/color] is a smaller habour-side city, and is part of the state of Baan, which in turn is part of the country of Lious.
It is the furthest state from the Capital citystate that is Lious itself, and is the closest city on the continent to the Eron Continent. Ten years ago, Eau Marché was bought off Lious by the Empire. Now, it has been returned as part of the states of Lious, as the nation is now wholly part of the Empire anyway. It was initially designed to have the same 'white' design to it as Lious, but over time this has diminished, and now only a few structures remain that are old enough to be seen in the same style (Mayor House is one of these). Outside Eau Marché lie large expanses of farms and large properties, and it is not very densly populated.
The Immestrial Continent[/u][/size]
Hangyakunin[/color] is the world's most advanced technological power. The development of Energy initially began here (it was adopted by Imperial scientists and also stolen by the Rebellion at the time); this is emphasised by the compressed Energy structure that decorates the Castle in a rising, skyward arc.
Hangyakunin has grown extensively over the last 16 years, and has slowly grown to a level of metropolis almost like that in Gardaine. In comparison, however, it is still much smaller. Hangyakunin, being the Ancient Capital of the Immestrial Empire, is its secondmost-prominent feature. It remains politically loyal to its Empress, Shelrair, and the rest of its brotherhood.
The Castle is the central feature of the Ancient Capital. The grounds of the Castle extend over that of the Grounds of the Palace in Gardaine, and it makes up a large portion of the main city. At the country's north lies the Hangyakunin Port (previously known as Filsen Port, before the two cities were considered merged, even though there is a considerable space between Hangyakunin and the population that inhabits the area around the Port), which is a large city in its own right. To the East, North and West lie desert (with the beginning of the Hylda Mountain Range to the far East, which continues over much of the continent). Throughout the desert, several military Research Centres and Barracks are situated - built outside the main vicinity of the country to attract population to the cities and encourage economy.
Asfare:[/color] The Kingdom of Asfare is a collection of states situated at the base of, and along the Hylda Mountain Range and runs along most of the range. The Capital, Leir, is the most-populated state of Asfare, and houses the Royal Family.
The main city is distinguished by high walls designed for defence against both military and weather. It is a mighty nation, however it is smaller than the likes of Ranra. Through the course of history, Asfare and Immestrial have had their disagreements and battles. In the past, Asfare was immensly powerful. Its influence has greatly diminished as of now, however.
It was mostly kept quiet over the last few years, but its resources are running low. In order to extend the nation and gain resources, sacrifices had to be made.
Filsen[/color] is still the name used for the section of Hangyakunin near the water, despite the two cities being conjoined. It was once a territory owned by Ranra. Hangyakunin bought it from Ranra a few years ago, but there was rioting and a short (and rather unimportant) civil war between the two states for a number of days before it was claimed definitely.
The Islands of Morgheth[/color] [/size]
The Islands of Morgheth are a cluster of small islands located north from the Immestrian Continent, originally being one large island that broke away, the cause is unknown, the reason, according to the people, is explained through their religious culture. There are approximately 6 Islands, with the largest, Poi'Lin, being the capital. Poi'Lin is the central island with the remaining 5 dotted around it closeby, with Poi'Lin civilians being able to merely swim across if needed. Poi'Lin is also occupied by the Leader of the Islands, Grand Duchess Merillow Ouvii, who declined a proposition by Gardaine to form an alliance 2 years ago.
The Islands of Morgheth also boasts an incredibly powerful naval army, controlling more ocean ships than any other country and also the most advanced.
The Pithials[/color][/size]
The Pithials are a collection of islands that lie between the Eron and Silstriana continents. Most of these islands are small and contain such a population, however, there are three main islands: Cynsos, Kreta and Nubia.
Cynsos[/color] is the largest of these. Due to this strategic position, Cynsos has become a flourshing international economy, making huge profits off trading between the two continents. Despite this importance - indeed, because of it, Cynsos remains an autonomous region under Pithial sovereignty. The islands are 'protected' by both the Immestrial Empire and the Kingdom of Ranra, and because an attempt by any power (especially one of the aforementioned) to take over them would result in one, or both, of these superpowers to take military action, they, especially Cynsos, have remained a cultural and financial hub, with only a small navy and regional police forces operating across the islands.
Note: In states where the Empress of Immestrial is Sovereign, her Vizier, Asmoday, is considered equally as important when she is not currently in that country (for example, if Asmoday visists a foreign country, he is treated as the Emperor of Immestrial unless Shelly is also there, in which case he is treated as an extremely important official).
The Immestrial Empire[/color][/size]
The Empire of Immestrial is by far the greatest governing power in the world. It consists of many nations across Vadaa, and is allied with many others. Throughout history, it has grown and expanded itself as a great force, and now it prides itself as the most powerful Empire ever written of.
Apart from a few nations who remain loyal yet unruled by Immestrial, the Empress is the Soveriegn of all states and terriotories that remain part of the Empire. In most places, this means she rules as an Absolute Monarch, with representatives spread out across the nations to rule in her name.
In Gardaine, however, after the formation of the Council by the previous Empress, Eleanore, there has formed two councils over the last 16 years - one to act as the main governing body of the nation of Gardaine itself (with the Queens holding the executive power above them), and another, the High Council of Immestrial, to act as both advisors to the Empress, and as a governing body under the Empress for the entire Empire.
Whilst the High Council isn't recognised, or even acts upon, other nations, the Federal Council of Gardaine has constituted limits to the Sovereign's power in the region, making him/her a Constitutional Monarch.
Because of this, resources, particularly military, were split and divided between the Empress' private resources, and those of Gardaine.
A division of military personnel, predominantly demon, have been assigned to the managing of the Empress' own safety (as well as, if needed, the safety of the High Council). The head of the group, now surpassing the status of High Officer, is the Empress' Vanguard - Diabora.
Sovereign: Empress Shelrair Hemari.
Imperial Vizier: Asmoday Waurd.
Imperial Vanguard: Diabora, the Hate.
Supreme Chancellor of the High Council: Geoffery Peat.
Vice-Chancellor of the High Council: Kana Lein.
The State of Gardaine[/color][/size]
Gardaine is a state of the Immestrial Empire. As such, it holds Empress Shelrair as reigning soverign. As previously mentioned, however, Gardaine, unlike other terriotories governed by the Empire, holds a constitution in place with rules regarding the Monarch and his/her power of the dominion.
The governing power - the Council - works similar in function to a parliamentary system. The Chancellor of Gardaine acts as head of the Council. It is overseen by the two Queens of Gardaine.
Gardaine itself does not have a representative in place of the Empress, however, the Queens have been given the power to represent her if she or the Vizier are absent.
Sovereign: Empress Shelrair Hemari.
Diarchs: Queen Jezebel and Queen Emilia.
Chancellor of the State Council: Elliot Byrde.
Vice-Chancellor of the State Council: Nobel Pascase.
The State of Hangyakunin, The Ancient Capital[/color][/size]
Hangyakunin is always been completely loyal to the Empress. In truth, the people there would love to see the Monarchy return and make its primary residence there. At least, that's how it seems on the outside...
The Satrap represents the Empress in the Ancient Capital, and is the predominant governing power in the region. An Administrator takes care of city matters, and represents the Satrap (but cannot govern in their place) when he/she is unavailable.
Sovereign: Empress Shelrair.
Satrap: His Excellency Marrent Byron.
Heir Apparent: Lord Jervick Byron.
Administrator: Leroy Kinlea.
The Congregation of Serenfas[/color][/size]
The Congregation of Serenfas acts as both a society in its own right, as well as a religion. The body that governs the society is also the body that governs the religious matters of the Congregation. This body is known as the 'Organisation' to most - the official name is Organisation of the Congregation of Serenfas.
There is a group of profound Members in the Organisation who are termed 'Elders'. The Elders are the supreme rulers of the Organisation, however, the 'Sire' represents the combined Elderhood as one person. The Elders must meet to agree on changes or actions for the Congregation, and if they come to a decision, the Sire must obey their orders and/or relay them to the rest of Serenfas.
The Sire, however, also has the ability to make decisions on behalf of the ELders and can execute them without meeting with the Elders to form an agreement - this is the advantage the Sire holds over the Elders. That being said, the Elders can meet to veto any decision made by the Sire on their behalf. They can also meet to announce the end of a current Sire's position, and are the only Members of the Organisation who are allowed to vote on and elect a new Sire.
After the formation of Yensera, three individuals were chosen by the Sire to represent each a different area of life in Yensera (Military, Religious and Civilian). They meet once a week with the Sire to discuss and propose changes to the Congregation that he is able to accept or decline. These individuals are considered members of the Organisation, and are also given residence in the main building of Serenfas, which also serves as the Sire's home (the Elders live elsewhere, as described in the Location section).
Elders: There are nine elders. The only individually-mentioned one of these has been Elder Lyvass. The most senior elder is Kyre.
Sire-head: Kyou.
Member for Military Organisation: Rewan.
Member for Religious Affairs: Oseal.
Member for Civilian Affairs: Hew.
The Kingdom of Ranra[/color][/size]
The Kingdom of Ranra is an Abolsute Monarchy. The Monarch exercises complete power over his/her Kingdom. He has no officials representing him in terriotories he governs, but other members of the Royal Family generally act in that regard. There are appointed officials to govern localities, apart from Capital State, which the Monarch is personally Administrator of.
Sovereign: King Herold III.
Heir Apparent: The Princess Henrietta.
Second-in-line: Princess Penelope Cuay.
Capital State[/color][/size]
Capital State, being of the Kingdom of Ranra, is ruled by the King/Queen, and unlike other nations as part of the Kingdom, is personally administrated by him/her as well.
Sovereign: King Herold III.
Administrator: King Herold III.
Deputy Administrator: Princess Penelope Cuay.
Westleton of Ranra[/color][/size]
Westleton, Ranra's largest city, is commander of the world's largest naval fleet. Ranra relies of Westleton for most of its economic benefits. Westleton's largest business is the shipping business. It is governed executively by the Monarchy of Ranra, and locally by the Admiral of the Fleet, Commander of the Royal Navy.
Sovereign: King Herold III.
Lord Mayoral Administrator: Admiral Fyrth Jameson.
Deputy Administrator: Lady Veria Blue.
The Imperial Republic of Lious[/color][/size]
Lious is governed predominantly by the President, and has been until recently the only holder of this position.
Three years ago, after negotiations between Gardaine and Lious, the two nations formed an agreement over a shared control bond between the nations. In this way, it is governed executively by both the President of Lious and the Empress of the Immestrial Empire in a shared diarchy.
Whilst the Empress rarely exercises this power, the reasons behind the share of control caused much unrest with the public. As a result, protest and violence gangs have sprung up across the nation, becoming national threats.
A Governor-General represents the Monarch of Immestrial when he/she is absent. A Governor is in place for the Eastern and Western points of Lious, as well as Eau Marché, representing both Presidents in that regard.
[There is also a complicated local government structure in Eau Marché but it's not really important.]
Presidents: The Honourable Karlos Vivenni and Empress Shelrair Hemari.
Vice President: Sarah May.
Governor-General to the Empress: Erin Thestis.
Governor of East Lious: Samuel Georgia.
Governor of Western Lious: William Artes.
Governor of Eau Marché: Jak Huston.
The Kingdom of Asfare[/color][/size]
The Kingdom of Asfare works as a Constituional Monarchy. The Royal Family works as a collective executive power as listed by Consitutions which are different according to the nation. Governor-Generals represent the Royal Family in every Asfarian nation, and Governors in each state.
The most senior member of the Royal Family has superior power over the other members. If a younger member makes a decisison on behalf of the Family, their senior can veto that decision.
Councils are set up that also act as governing bodies, with a Council of Advisors to keep the Royal Family in check and also to rule on any laws they wish to pass for the Kingdom.
The Royal Family (Only the important ones, in order of seniority): King Chipea, Queen Danielle and Prince Verith.
High Councillor of the Advisors: Gallun Hyera.
The Morghethian Confederacy[/size]
The 6 Dukes(One for each island, with the 1st Duke being the Grand Duchess Merrilow):
Poi'Lin: The Grand Duchess Merrilow Ouvii.
Son'Sin Duke: Tyou Lit
Hort'Ell Duke: Yurt Yillence
Yel'Pol Duke: Porr Pell
Yun'Sin Duchess: Ure Olen Quin
Ureea'In Duke: Qre'Hrey
The Pithial Union[/color][/size]
President of the Pithial Islands: Lutre Nimball.
Pithial Consul: H'rada Fallain.
Premier of Cynsos: Klara Swita-Tander.
For roughly three decades, religion was illegal within the Empire, as outlined by Emperor Sei's atheistic father (Sei himself was apathetic to the issue, and simply let the law continue into his reign).
Secret societies and underground congregations were formed as a result of this, and previous existing religious groups were forced to practice their beliefs in secret, leaving much of the buildings either sold or abandoned.
After Empress Eleanore took the throne, she was asked by Father McKenzie of the Auder to legalise religion again, which she did.
Now free to practice their religion, the groups slowly rose up again throughout the Empire.
Auder[/color]
Followers of the Auder are known as 'Audists'. Currently, it is the overall most popular faith in Immestrial.
The Auder combines both the beliefs of the old monotheistic Ha'Vadaa - a religion stemming back to the Immestrial continent thousands of years ago - and the beliefs of the Ancients who inhibated Seracoran before imperialisation. The main beliefs of the Auder are:
From nothingness, existence wanted to be. Because there was nothing, and essentially 'nothing' itself did not exist, existence was able to.. Well, exist.
It existed in the form of the first Creator - Ngya. Ngya was not material, and was genderless ((unfortunately, due to the constraints of the English language, I am forced to use 'he' in order to complete the next sentences. But it is important to note that Ngya was genderless, 'he' is not male, and not female)). His existence was merely feelings. But from the moment he existed, something existed within him - memory: Pyr. This is one of the fundamental beliefs of the Auder - that Pyr exists within a person from birth. In fact, the person is Pyr. Everything thrives on memories.
Ngya realised this, and remembered that he existed, and he remembered the nothingness around him. But as the first Creator, there was nothing else to remember. For this reason, Ngya divided his Pyr in two, and seperated this from himself. In order to stop their memories from merging, Ngya created 'Aura' - an individualised persona that attracted the Pyr. He gave himself an aura different to the other, and the first different being was created.
This being - who refused to name 'her'self ((again no gender but English language
)) - grew different memories - from birth, she was not alone, as Ngya was. Ngya realised that, in order for memories to flourish, there needed to be a vessel that acted as a stimulant. Because of this, the first Shell was created, and also created was an expanse for this Shell to exist. As she slept, Ngya created the first basic remnants of a world around her, and as she woke, the goddess experienced huge onslaughts of Pyr. She thanked Ngya for the world and her Shell, and to please him, she created herself a Shell for him.
Ngya despised this act, however, and condemned the Shell. Saddened, she created from nothing an aura and put it inside the Shell, and from that, Pyr was born anew, rather than being split first. This outraged Ngya, as this was how he was born originally.
The two Shells were made different from each other - one was genderless, the other had the body of a man, to be different from her own, as she liked being different. In order to prove herself as a ruler over even Ngya, she created another Shell, different yet from herself and yet also different from the man - a woman's. These people were like her. She bestowed upon them the power to create, and they worshipped her as Queen, and they never knew Ngya, as she taught them otherwise to spite him.
Some believe Ngya faded back into nothingness, with no Shell to create enough Pyr for himself (this is the main belief), others believe he watches silently from above and others yet believe he created a new world and left this to it's own devices.
In any case, these gods created Vadaa - the world the humans now populate and grow. The gods decided to create humans with lesser power than themselves, to rule over and watch from above. Because of this, they created a seperate world to live in. The gods were granted dominion over certain areas, and that is how things stand today. Demons were beings created for the people to use with powers exceeding their own. They were born without Shells, and so sacrifices were needed to the gods to summon a demon upon a human. At first, humans were also created with a high level of creative power, able to create from their auras new and wonderful components of the land, but now, they can create only from what is existant around them - living by materials, for materials.
The Demons grew to hate their suppressors, and believed that they were like gods themselves, higher than humans, and after much injustice, the demons rebelled against the humans, inciting the Demon War. The humans felt as if their gods has forsaken them. Eventually, many of the demons were enslaved or destroyed - their auras sent back to the Red Sea - resting place of memories.
During the reign of Empress Shelrair, the Auder skyrocketed in popularity due to the Empress' public devotion to the belief. Resources were donated to the Auder (and occasionally smaller sums to other beliefs) by the Empire. In Gardaine particularly, the Auder is most prominant. The old Chapel has been internationally preserved. It is now hardly ever used publicly, but is guarded by soldiers from Gardaine most of the time.
Empress Shelrair and Father Roel, Head of the Auder, officially opened the Basilica of Sera three years ago. The Basilica is now the second-largest building in Gardaine, behind the Palace itself. It is situated in the centre of the capital, and the Basilica Square stretches out as the largest public square in the city, now a large social hub.
The Congregation of Serenfas[/color]
The religion of Serenfas is derived mostly from the old Ancients' beliefs (which is essentially the same as the Auder except there was never an original Creator - the gods always existed), except over time this has changed in accordance to the changing views of the Elders and the Sire.
Members of Serenfas now believe that, as a result of humanity's gradual degredation in godly appraisal, worship and spirituality (such as the ability to no longer control their own auras), the gods grew angry and punished the humans with various means - in some cases terrible disasters.
The humans rose against the gods. They cursed them and waged war. Only a few remained faithful - these were spared from the wrath of the gods, but hunted down by their own kin. It was a time of war.
The gods changed the minds and hearts of the demons supporting the humans, and turned them into fiends whose purpose was to avenge their Creators in destroying those below.
With destruction looming, one goddess, Sera, left the gods to protect the humans, whom she loved dearly as her creations, her children. She fought against the other gods, and tried to act as a mediator between both sides. Some gods joined her and helped her in her battle. Eventually, after many tales and legends that have been forever recorded in tomes that now reside in the Yensera Library, the humans, supported by Sera and her army, defeated the gods. The humans worshipped Sera, for she had been their salvation, and now she reigns as Sovereign Goddess and Protector of her people, the Congregation of Serenfas.
The Descendants[/color]
Descendants believe only what the Ancients left behind. They consider themselves true Descendants of the Ancients, not traitors and leavers - as they consider Serenfas.
Some Descendants believe that there was never a war between god and human - only demon and human. Others believe that Sera was locked away by the other gods for her treachery. Either view is supported.
The Descendants also believe that humanity has strayed from the pleasure of the gods - obvious by the lack of people in the world able to connect with their auras or even the myst. In order to get back into a spiritual wellbeing and live in the way they were meant to, the Descendants live a life to please the gods. This includes having a sacred messenger from the gods on Vadaa to communicate the gods' will, which requires a sacrifice - a demon.
Having more than one demon on Vadaa apart from the sacred one (Shelly considers this Jezebel) is a sin. This being said, in the modern day there are many new demons, created from the Descendants - the only group who believe them to be sacred anymore. This is because the Sacred One has made it clear that the gods want life to go back to the way it once was - humans and demons loiving in a partnership. And so far, the descendants have made this successful.
Ha'Vadaa[/color]
Ha'Vadaa is hardly practiced outside of the Immestrial Continent anymore. However, most nations in the Immestrial ciontinent, even those outside of the Empire, are followers of Ha'Vadaa. It is the predominant religion in this region, even over the Auder.
Ha'Vadaa believes in the Creator Ngya as outlined under The Auder, but does not believe in the gods of the Ancients.
Ha'Vadaa suggests that any spirutual activity not caused by Ngya is a result of demons (they believe in demons also, that they were sent by Ngya as tools for the humans, but also to do his bidding). However, Ha'Vadaa teaches that after humans turned away from Ngya's will, the Demon War commenced. They teach that all demons were eradicated after the War, and that Ngya has ceased their existance in a promise to mankind. They believe that any modern 'demonic' sightings or figures are false. The religion does teach that there may be humans on Vadaa who still possess myst/aura abilities.
Other[/color]
Other religions include those of the nomads of the Immestrial Continent, whose beliefs are wide and varied, the beliefs of Eau Marche and Lious (which are mainly mixes of other religions), the primary religion of Ranra, Piallur, which is a lot more happy than other religions in the world at the moment and also looks to salvation in an afterlife (is monotheistic), and other smaller religions based around the world. These, however, aren't directly related to the story, so aren't as important.
Out-of-Character Discussion
Vadaa - Original[/u][/size][/center]
In this first post, I'd like to compile a list of all the current major locations, religions and basic Governmental Structures since Search for the Skies, and what their status is in the Red Sea roleplay. Only a brief description, though.
We'll start with the locations...
Locations
[/u][/size][/center]The locations and their geographical situations are below (political is in the section below this):
The Eron Continent[/u][/size]
Gardaine[/color] is essentially the world superpower. It was previously known, after it grew to be the new Capital, to be Central Immestrial, and thus the Center of the Empire.
Whilst that ideaology was rejected by Empress Eleanore during her reign, Gardaine remains the primary residence of the Sovereign of the Immestrial Empire, and some consider Shelrair's reign to have reinstated the traditional capitalisation of the state.
The majority of Gardaine is essentially a Victorian-Era metropolis. With the development of an Energy Research Organisation and Centre within Gardaine a year after the fall of the Ashrose Castle, Gardaine has attempted to surpass it's sister, Hangyakunin, in being the technological power of the world - whilst it hasn't succeeded, it has developed many new technologies indepenently, but still relies on new technologies from Hangyakunin from time to time.
There is a wall to the North (and less densly populated area) of Gardaine, blocking the city off from the Forest there (this isn't the Forest Siberius is born in, or that Serenfas lives in now) - this reaches down to part of the South outskirts, but the Forest is much less dense there. The East and South outskirts of the country are floushring marketplaces, and have extended the size of Gardaine immensly over the years, continuing to grow the nation. There are 3 walls altogether that surround Gardaine, the Outer Wall, The Middle Wall and the Inner Wall that have been built in a matter of years to repel opposing forces and to also grow the continuously expanding nation.
Despite all its grandeur, roughly one quarter of Gardaine remains slums, and attempts to clean these up and find employment and support for the residents there have been unsuccessful. The centre of the slums is referred to by the people as the Phoenix District, as the people claim the building complex they have reinforced and set up there was once the Imperial Airship Phoenix, which crashed there over 17 years ago. This region is predominantly unpoliced, the people there living in their own kind of anarchy.
The Great Forest, Reisi:[/color] This forest, that covers half the entire Eron Continent, was once home to many tribes of Ancients living among the trees. Over the centuries, it grew to be inhabited only by the animals that called it home, and a rare few hunters and recluses who preferred it's solitary comfort.
As the Rebellion expanded, it set up bases and outposts along the outskirts of, and inside the Forest. Some of these still remain untouched to this day, whilst others have been ransacked, destroyed or newly-inhabited.
There are still a few tribes remaining in the Forest - descended from Ancients - however, these have lost all contact with their inner selves and abilities therefore that the Ancients controlled, and are more or less savages, hardly even speaking a language. The population of the Forest has grown over the years, but not significantly. It is still incredibly rare to find another once inside. Unless, of course, you're wandering around Yensera.
The Villages of Yensera[/color] are a collection of tightly-knit villages that were established over the last 16 years by the remnants of Serenfas. It is named using the language of the Corans - Ancients who once resided in what has become Gardaine (Yen=Granted safety, Sera=The Goddess Sera, their patron deity [literally meaning Sera's Safety]).
The villages are mostly close, however there are some exceptions (the trading village Murka, a smaller village [Dew] in the heart of the Forest, also used as a checkpoint between Murka and the Central Village [which is referred to as Yensera or Serenfas], and a community set up in one of the old Rebel Bases, simply titled 'Headquarters', which serves as a residence and training point for new mercenaries of the Organisation, or outpost guards and watchmen).
Most of the villages are situated around the central village, where the Sire and the Yensera Council gather every week. The tallest building in Yensera (apart from Headquarters, of course) lies here, and is the primary residence of the Sire and several other Senior Members of the Organisation, but also doubles as the location of the Library. The other mainly important village is connected to the central village, and has no official name (but it known as 'Coran' [meaning home of] to others), and is a moderately-sized stone building complex which is heavily guarded and restricted to the Elders or their guests only.
Ilridge is a medium-sized city located South-East from Gardaine, it is a very thin city that is spread across a very large cliff formation. Monstrous ocean waves hav crashed against it's foundations for centuries, shaping underwater caverns that are visited once a year when the tides go down, and because it is done on a yearly basis for one week, the people of Ilridge have a celebration. Ilridge possesses the most valuable and varied range of fish, and as such developed a fishing town that is in contact with hundreds of countries that seek the ocean life this community collects. Ilridge is currently the home of Siberius and his family after fleeing from Gardaine.
The Mountains of Vuerria: A millennium ago, the Mountains of Vuerria was home to a very powerful race, the ancient of the ancients, within it contains intricate tunnel networks(similar to that of the Descendants' headquarters) and one of the three Altars. The Empress of Gardaine, Shelrair, has been attempting to excavate the Mountains, but it's entrance has been sealed, it's connections been destroyed and it's entrails hidden.
The Silstriana Continent[/u][/size]
Ranra:[/color] The Kingdom of Ranra is the largest dominion outside of the Immestrial Empire. After the assasination of a handful of it's most prominent officials, Ranra and Immestrial fell into bad terms with each other. This was later resolved, however, and currently they act as powerful allies to one another.
Capital State is the capital of the Kingdom, and its second-largest city, also acting as the primary residence of the current King. Capital State is a much cleaner city than Hangyakunin or Gardaine, but nowhere near the size of the latter.
Ranra's largest city Wesleton, however, could well compete with Hangyakunin in size. Wesleton is a lot less cleaner than Capital State. There is a huge harbour on the outskirts of the city, which is also home to the worlds' most powerful navy fleet. The buildings in Wessleton are decorated in reds and whites, however a current trend is blooming in which new architecture is being decorated in blues - the love of colour and decoration stems back to the Old Religion that was prominent in the land centuries ago.
Lious[/color] is a moderately-sized citystate at the centre of the continent. It was originally established a century ago by Ranran protestors, and grew from a town, to a city, to a nation in its own right. Due to this, the Liousians broke away from the Kingdom, and were ruling independently until the Immestrial Empire took over the region 40 years ago in order to secure a foothold in the region. After disputes with the Kingdom of Ranra, who saw this as a threat, a war broke out between Imperial Lious and the Kingdom. After a year, the Empire surrendered Lious to Ranra, who liberated it and allowed it to grow as an independant nation once more. Since then, Ranra and Lious have been fond allies.
Despite this, however, after an invitation 3 years ago to join the Empire once more, Lious signed an agreement to become a joint diarchy, run by both the President of Lious and Imperator of Immestrial.
A major river runs through the centre of Lious, dividing it into two sections. Bridges connect the two states at intervals. In order to contrast with the Ranran love of colour, Lious was built a primary white, and has remained mainly the 'White City' since. The Presidential Palace is situated on a man-made island on the lake to the East of the nation, and is currently used by the President himself and Governor-General.
Eau Marché[/color] is a smaller habour-side city, and is part of the state of Baan, which in turn is part of the country of Lious.
It is the furthest state from the Capital citystate that is Lious itself, and is the closest city on the continent to the Eron Continent. Ten years ago, Eau Marché was bought off Lious by the Empire. Now, it has been returned as part of the states of Lious, as the nation is now wholly part of the Empire anyway. It was initially designed to have the same 'white' design to it as Lious, but over time this has diminished, and now only a few structures remain that are old enough to be seen in the same style (Mayor House is one of these). Outside Eau Marché lie large expanses of farms and large properties, and it is not very densly populated.
The Immestrial Continent[/u][/size]
Hangyakunin[/color] is the world's most advanced technological power. The development of Energy initially began here (it was adopted by Imperial scientists and also stolen by the Rebellion at the time); this is emphasised by the compressed Energy structure that decorates the Castle in a rising, skyward arc.
Hangyakunin has grown extensively over the last 16 years, and has slowly grown to a level of metropolis almost like that in Gardaine. In comparison, however, it is still much smaller. Hangyakunin, being the Ancient Capital of the Immestrial Empire, is its secondmost-prominent feature. It remains politically loyal to its Empress, Shelrair, and the rest of its brotherhood.
The Castle is the central feature of the Ancient Capital. The grounds of the Castle extend over that of the Grounds of the Palace in Gardaine, and it makes up a large portion of the main city. At the country's north lies the Hangyakunin Port (previously known as Filsen Port, before the two cities were considered merged, even though there is a considerable space between Hangyakunin and the population that inhabits the area around the Port), which is a large city in its own right. To the East, North and West lie desert (with the beginning of the Hylda Mountain Range to the far East, which continues over much of the continent). Throughout the desert, several military Research Centres and Barracks are situated - built outside the main vicinity of the country to attract population to the cities and encourage economy.
Asfare:[/color] The Kingdom of Asfare is a collection of states situated at the base of, and along the Hylda Mountain Range and runs along most of the range. The Capital, Leir, is the most-populated state of Asfare, and houses the Royal Family.
The main city is distinguished by high walls designed for defence against both military and weather. It is a mighty nation, however it is smaller than the likes of Ranra. Through the course of history, Asfare and Immestrial have had their disagreements and battles. In the past, Asfare was immensly powerful. Its influence has greatly diminished as of now, however.
It was mostly kept quiet over the last few years, but its resources are running low. In order to extend the nation and gain resources, sacrifices had to be made.
Filsen[/color] is still the name used for the section of Hangyakunin near the water, despite the two cities being conjoined. It was once a territory owned by Ranra. Hangyakunin bought it from Ranra a few years ago, but there was rioting and a short (and rather unimportant) civil war between the two states for a number of days before it was claimed definitely.
The Islands of Morgheth[/color] [/size]
The Islands of Morgheth are a cluster of small islands located north from the Immestrian Continent, originally being one large island that broke away, the cause is unknown, the reason, according to the people, is explained through their religious culture. There are approximately 6 Islands, with the largest, Poi'Lin, being the capital. Poi'Lin is the central island with the remaining 5 dotted around it closeby, with Poi'Lin civilians being able to merely swim across if needed. Poi'Lin is also occupied by the Leader of the Islands, Grand Duchess Merillow Ouvii, who declined a proposition by Gardaine to form an alliance 2 years ago.
The Islands of Morgheth also boasts an incredibly powerful naval army, controlling more ocean ships than any other country and also the most advanced.
The Pithials[/color][/size]
The Pithials are a collection of islands that lie between the Eron and Silstriana continents. Most of these islands are small and contain such a population, however, there are three main islands: Cynsos, Kreta and Nubia.
Cynsos[/color] is the largest of these. Due to this strategic position, Cynsos has become a flourshing international economy, making huge profits off trading between the two continents. Despite this importance - indeed, because of it, Cynsos remains an autonomous region under Pithial sovereignty. The islands are 'protected' by both the Immestrial Empire and the Kingdom of Ranra, and because an attempt by any power (especially one of the aforementioned) to take over them would result in one, or both, of these superpowers to take military action, they, especially Cynsos, have remained a cultural and financial hub, with only a small navy and regional police forces operating across the islands.
Government
[/u][/size][/center]Note: In states where the Empress of Immestrial is Sovereign, her Vizier, Asmoday, is considered equally as important when she is not currently in that country (for example, if Asmoday visists a foreign country, he is treated as the Emperor of Immestrial unless Shelly is also there, in which case he is treated as an extremely important official).
The Immestrial Empire[/color][/size]
The Empire of Immestrial is by far the greatest governing power in the world. It consists of many nations across Vadaa, and is allied with many others. Throughout history, it has grown and expanded itself as a great force, and now it prides itself as the most powerful Empire ever written of.
Apart from a few nations who remain loyal yet unruled by Immestrial, the Empress is the Soveriegn of all states and terriotories that remain part of the Empire. In most places, this means she rules as an Absolute Monarch, with representatives spread out across the nations to rule in her name.
In Gardaine, however, after the formation of the Council by the previous Empress, Eleanore, there has formed two councils over the last 16 years - one to act as the main governing body of the nation of Gardaine itself (with the Queens holding the executive power above them), and another, the High Council of Immestrial, to act as both advisors to the Empress, and as a governing body under the Empress for the entire Empire.
Whilst the High Council isn't recognised, or even acts upon, other nations, the Federal Council of Gardaine has constituted limits to the Sovereign's power in the region, making him/her a Constitutional Monarch.
Because of this, resources, particularly military, were split and divided between the Empress' private resources, and those of Gardaine.
A division of military personnel, predominantly demon, have been assigned to the managing of the Empress' own safety (as well as, if needed, the safety of the High Council). The head of the group, now surpassing the status of High Officer, is the Empress' Vanguard - Diabora.
Sovereign: Empress Shelrair Hemari.
Imperial Vizier: Asmoday Waurd.
Imperial Vanguard: Diabora, the Hate.
Supreme Chancellor of the High Council: Geoffery Peat.
Vice-Chancellor of the High Council: Kana Lein.
The State of Gardaine[/color][/size]
Gardaine is a state of the Immestrial Empire. As such, it holds Empress Shelrair as reigning soverign. As previously mentioned, however, Gardaine, unlike other terriotories governed by the Empire, holds a constitution in place with rules regarding the Monarch and his/her power of the dominion.
The governing power - the Council - works similar in function to a parliamentary system. The Chancellor of Gardaine acts as head of the Council. It is overseen by the two Queens of Gardaine.
Gardaine itself does not have a representative in place of the Empress, however, the Queens have been given the power to represent her if she or the Vizier are absent.
Sovereign: Empress Shelrair Hemari.
Diarchs: Queen Jezebel and Queen Emilia.
Chancellor of the State Council: Elliot Byrde.
Vice-Chancellor of the State Council: Nobel Pascase.
The State of Hangyakunin, The Ancient Capital[/color][/size]
Hangyakunin is always been completely loyal to the Empress. In truth, the people there would love to see the Monarchy return and make its primary residence there. At least, that's how it seems on the outside...
The Satrap represents the Empress in the Ancient Capital, and is the predominant governing power in the region. An Administrator takes care of city matters, and represents the Satrap (but cannot govern in their place) when he/she is unavailable.
Sovereign: Empress Shelrair.
Satrap: His Excellency Marrent Byron.
Heir Apparent: Lord Jervick Byron.
Administrator: Leroy Kinlea.
The Congregation of Serenfas[/color][/size]
The Congregation of Serenfas acts as both a society in its own right, as well as a religion. The body that governs the society is also the body that governs the religious matters of the Congregation. This body is known as the 'Organisation' to most - the official name is Organisation of the Congregation of Serenfas.
There is a group of profound Members in the Organisation who are termed 'Elders'. The Elders are the supreme rulers of the Organisation, however, the 'Sire' represents the combined Elderhood as one person. The Elders must meet to agree on changes or actions for the Congregation, and if they come to a decision, the Sire must obey their orders and/or relay them to the rest of Serenfas.
The Sire, however, also has the ability to make decisions on behalf of the ELders and can execute them without meeting with the Elders to form an agreement - this is the advantage the Sire holds over the Elders. That being said, the Elders can meet to veto any decision made by the Sire on their behalf. They can also meet to announce the end of a current Sire's position, and are the only Members of the Organisation who are allowed to vote on and elect a new Sire.
After the formation of Yensera, three individuals were chosen by the Sire to represent each a different area of life in Yensera (Military, Religious and Civilian). They meet once a week with the Sire to discuss and propose changes to the Congregation that he is able to accept or decline. These individuals are considered members of the Organisation, and are also given residence in the main building of Serenfas, which also serves as the Sire's home (the Elders live elsewhere, as described in the Location section).
Elders: There are nine elders. The only individually-mentioned one of these has been Elder Lyvass. The most senior elder is Kyre.
Sire-head: Kyou.
Member for Military Organisation: Rewan.
Member for Religious Affairs: Oseal.
Member for Civilian Affairs: Hew.
The Kingdom of Ranra[/color][/size]
The Kingdom of Ranra is an Abolsute Monarchy. The Monarch exercises complete power over his/her Kingdom. He has no officials representing him in terriotories he governs, but other members of the Royal Family generally act in that regard. There are appointed officials to govern localities, apart from Capital State, which the Monarch is personally Administrator of.
Sovereign: King Herold III.
Heir Apparent: The Princess Henrietta.
Second-in-line: Princess Penelope Cuay.
Capital State[/color][/size]
Capital State, being of the Kingdom of Ranra, is ruled by the King/Queen, and unlike other nations as part of the Kingdom, is personally administrated by him/her as well.
Sovereign: King Herold III.
Administrator: King Herold III.
Deputy Administrator: Princess Penelope Cuay.
Westleton of Ranra[/color][/size]
Westleton, Ranra's largest city, is commander of the world's largest naval fleet. Ranra relies of Westleton for most of its economic benefits. Westleton's largest business is the shipping business. It is governed executively by the Monarchy of Ranra, and locally by the Admiral of the Fleet, Commander of the Royal Navy.
Sovereign: King Herold III.
Lord Mayoral Administrator: Admiral Fyrth Jameson.
Deputy Administrator: Lady Veria Blue.
The Imperial Republic of Lious[/color][/size]
Lious is governed predominantly by the President, and has been until recently the only holder of this position.
Three years ago, after negotiations between Gardaine and Lious, the two nations formed an agreement over a shared control bond between the nations. In this way, it is governed executively by both the President of Lious and the Empress of the Immestrial Empire in a shared diarchy.
Whilst the Empress rarely exercises this power, the reasons behind the share of control caused much unrest with the public. As a result, protest and violence gangs have sprung up across the nation, becoming national threats.
A Governor-General represents the Monarch of Immestrial when he/she is absent. A Governor is in place for the Eastern and Western points of Lious, as well as Eau Marché, representing both Presidents in that regard.
[There is also a complicated local government structure in Eau Marché but it's not really important.]
Presidents: The Honourable Karlos Vivenni and Empress Shelrair Hemari.
Vice President: Sarah May.
Governor-General to the Empress: Erin Thestis.
Governor of East Lious: Samuel Georgia.
Governor of Western Lious: William Artes.
Governor of Eau Marché: Jak Huston.
The Kingdom of Asfare[/color][/size]
The Kingdom of Asfare works as a Constituional Monarchy. The Royal Family works as a collective executive power as listed by Consitutions which are different according to the nation. Governor-Generals represent the Royal Family in every Asfarian nation, and Governors in each state.
The most senior member of the Royal Family has superior power over the other members. If a younger member makes a decisison on behalf of the Family, their senior can veto that decision.
Councils are set up that also act as governing bodies, with a Council of Advisors to keep the Royal Family in check and also to rule on any laws they wish to pass for the Kingdom.
The Royal Family (Only the important ones, in order of seniority): King Chipea, Queen Danielle and Prince Verith.
High Councillor of the Advisors: Gallun Hyera.
The Morghethian Confederacy[/size]
The 6 Dukes(One for each island, with the 1st Duke being the Grand Duchess Merrilow):
Poi'Lin: The Grand Duchess Merrilow Ouvii.
Son'Sin Duke: Tyou Lit
Hort'Ell Duke: Yurt Yillence
Yel'Pol Duke: Porr Pell
Yun'Sin Duchess: Ure Olen Quin
Ureea'In Duke: Qre'Hrey
The Pithial Union[/color][/size]
President of the Pithial Islands: Lutre Nimball.
Pithial Consul: H'rada Fallain.
Premier of Cynsos: Klara Swita-Tander.
Religion
[/size][/center]For roughly three decades, religion was illegal within the Empire, as outlined by Emperor Sei's atheistic father (Sei himself was apathetic to the issue, and simply let the law continue into his reign).
Secret societies and underground congregations were formed as a result of this, and previous existing religious groups were forced to practice their beliefs in secret, leaving much of the buildings either sold or abandoned.
After Empress Eleanore took the throne, she was asked by Father McKenzie of the Auder to legalise religion again, which she did.
Now free to practice their religion, the groups slowly rose up again throughout the Empire.
Auder[/color]
Followers of the Auder are known as 'Audists'. Currently, it is the overall most popular faith in Immestrial.
The Auder combines both the beliefs of the old monotheistic Ha'Vadaa - a religion stemming back to the Immestrial continent thousands of years ago - and the beliefs of the Ancients who inhibated Seracoran before imperialisation. The main beliefs of the Auder are:
From nothingness, existence wanted to be. Because there was nothing, and essentially 'nothing' itself did not exist, existence was able to.. Well, exist.
It existed in the form of the first Creator - Ngya. Ngya was not material, and was genderless ((unfortunately, due to the constraints of the English language, I am forced to use 'he' in order to complete the next sentences. But it is important to note that Ngya was genderless, 'he' is not male, and not female)). His existence was merely feelings. But from the moment he existed, something existed within him - memory: Pyr. This is one of the fundamental beliefs of the Auder - that Pyr exists within a person from birth. In fact, the person is Pyr. Everything thrives on memories.
Ngya realised this, and remembered that he existed, and he remembered the nothingness around him. But as the first Creator, there was nothing else to remember. For this reason, Ngya divided his Pyr in two, and seperated this from himself. In order to stop their memories from merging, Ngya created 'Aura' - an individualised persona that attracted the Pyr. He gave himself an aura different to the other, and the first different being was created.
This being - who refused to name 'her'self ((again no gender but English language
)) - grew different memories - from birth, she was not alone, as Ngya was. Ngya realised that, in order for memories to flourish, there needed to be a vessel that acted as a stimulant. Because of this, the first Shell was created, and also created was an expanse for this Shell to exist. As she slept, Ngya created the first basic remnants of a world around her, and as she woke, the goddess experienced huge onslaughts of Pyr. She thanked Ngya for the world and her Shell, and to please him, she created herself a Shell for him.Ngya despised this act, however, and condemned the Shell. Saddened, she created from nothing an aura and put it inside the Shell, and from that, Pyr was born anew, rather than being split first. This outraged Ngya, as this was how he was born originally.
The two Shells were made different from each other - one was genderless, the other had the body of a man, to be different from her own, as she liked being different. In order to prove herself as a ruler over even Ngya, she created another Shell, different yet from herself and yet also different from the man - a woman's. These people were like her. She bestowed upon them the power to create, and they worshipped her as Queen, and they never knew Ngya, as she taught them otherwise to spite him.
Some believe Ngya faded back into nothingness, with no Shell to create enough Pyr for himself (this is the main belief), others believe he watches silently from above and others yet believe he created a new world and left this to it's own devices.
In any case, these gods created Vadaa - the world the humans now populate and grow. The gods decided to create humans with lesser power than themselves, to rule over and watch from above. Because of this, they created a seperate world to live in. The gods were granted dominion over certain areas, and that is how things stand today. Demons were beings created for the people to use with powers exceeding their own. They were born without Shells, and so sacrifices were needed to the gods to summon a demon upon a human. At first, humans were also created with a high level of creative power, able to create from their auras new and wonderful components of the land, but now, they can create only from what is existant around them - living by materials, for materials.
The Demons grew to hate their suppressors, and believed that they were like gods themselves, higher than humans, and after much injustice, the demons rebelled against the humans, inciting the Demon War. The humans felt as if their gods has forsaken them. Eventually, many of the demons were enslaved or destroyed - their auras sent back to the Red Sea - resting place of memories.
During the reign of Empress Shelrair, the Auder skyrocketed in popularity due to the Empress' public devotion to the belief. Resources were donated to the Auder (and occasionally smaller sums to other beliefs) by the Empire. In Gardaine particularly, the Auder is most prominant. The old Chapel has been internationally preserved. It is now hardly ever used publicly, but is guarded by soldiers from Gardaine most of the time.
Empress Shelrair and Father Roel, Head of the Auder, officially opened the Basilica of Sera three years ago. The Basilica is now the second-largest building in Gardaine, behind the Palace itself. It is situated in the centre of the capital, and the Basilica Square stretches out as the largest public square in the city, now a large social hub.
The Congregation of Serenfas[/color]
The religion of Serenfas is derived mostly from the old Ancients' beliefs (which is essentially the same as the Auder except there was never an original Creator - the gods always existed), except over time this has changed in accordance to the changing views of the Elders and the Sire.
Members of Serenfas now believe that, as a result of humanity's gradual degredation in godly appraisal, worship and spirituality (such as the ability to no longer control their own auras), the gods grew angry and punished the humans with various means - in some cases terrible disasters.
The humans rose against the gods. They cursed them and waged war. Only a few remained faithful - these were spared from the wrath of the gods, but hunted down by their own kin. It was a time of war.
The gods changed the minds and hearts of the demons supporting the humans, and turned them into fiends whose purpose was to avenge their Creators in destroying those below.
With destruction looming, one goddess, Sera, left the gods to protect the humans, whom she loved dearly as her creations, her children. She fought against the other gods, and tried to act as a mediator between both sides. Some gods joined her and helped her in her battle. Eventually, after many tales and legends that have been forever recorded in tomes that now reside in the Yensera Library, the humans, supported by Sera and her army, defeated the gods. The humans worshipped Sera, for she had been their salvation, and now she reigns as Sovereign Goddess and Protector of her people, the Congregation of Serenfas.
The Descendants[/color]
Descendants believe only what the Ancients left behind. They consider themselves true Descendants of the Ancients, not traitors and leavers - as they consider Serenfas.
Some Descendants believe that there was never a war between god and human - only demon and human. Others believe that Sera was locked away by the other gods for her treachery. Either view is supported.
The Descendants also believe that humanity has strayed from the pleasure of the gods - obvious by the lack of people in the world able to connect with their auras or even the myst. In order to get back into a spiritual wellbeing and live in the way they were meant to, the Descendants live a life to please the gods. This includes having a sacred messenger from the gods on Vadaa to communicate the gods' will, which requires a sacrifice - a demon.
Having more than one demon on Vadaa apart from the sacred one (Shelly considers this Jezebel) is a sin. This being said, in the modern day there are many new demons, created from the Descendants - the only group who believe them to be sacred anymore. This is because the Sacred One has made it clear that the gods want life to go back to the way it once was - humans and demons loiving in a partnership. And so far, the descendants have made this successful.
Ha'Vadaa[/color]
Ha'Vadaa is hardly practiced outside of the Immestrial Continent anymore. However, most nations in the Immestrial ciontinent, even those outside of the Empire, are followers of Ha'Vadaa. It is the predominant religion in this region, even over the Auder.
Ha'Vadaa believes in the Creator Ngya as outlined under The Auder, but does not believe in the gods of the Ancients.
Ha'Vadaa suggests that any spirutual activity not caused by Ngya is a result of demons (they believe in demons also, that they were sent by Ngya as tools for the humans, but also to do his bidding). However, Ha'Vadaa teaches that after humans turned away from Ngya's will, the Demon War commenced. They teach that all demons were eradicated after the War, and that Ngya has ceased their existance in a promise to mankind. They believe that any modern 'demonic' sightings or figures are false. The religion does teach that there may be humans on Vadaa who still possess myst/aura abilities.
Other[/color]
Other religions include those of the nomads of the Immestrial Continent, whose beliefs are wide and varied, the beliefs of Eau Marche and Lious (which are mainly mixes of other religions), the primary religion of Ranra, Piallur, which is a lot more happy than other religions in the world at the moment and also looks to salvation in an afterlife (is monotheistic), and other smaller religions based around the world. These, however, aren't directly related to the story, so aren't as important.
First question: Should Lious have accepted publically the invitation to join the Empire, or should it still look like an individual Presidency, seperate from the Empire, but in reality be a puppet-state of the Empire, with the President actually being an Imperial insider?
