Shandüchan Space Empire

## Shandücha

A great and noble nation. Powerful and wise. Ancient and lasting. The terror of enemies and savior of allies.

## Goal of the Empire

The main goal of the Shandüchan Space Empire (SSE) is to spread culture and order in the Barbaric galaxy.

Shandüchas generally are somewhat arrogant.  It should thus come as no surprise that they believe their culture to be the best.  With that in mind, Shandüchas makes quite the effort to spread their culture to as many people as possible.

## Notable Parts of the Culture

Culture is a powerful force, and can be used to great effect.  By spreading culture to other peoples, the position of Shandücha is strengthened.  This is why Shandücha tries so hard to educate others about the Beauty of Pragmatic Honor.

Honor, courage, skill, prowess in combat , and wisdom are highly prized attributes.

"Information is the door to triumph.". Education is very important to Shandüchans, and so there are many schools in the Empire.   Mostly education centers around the practical- like trade schools etc., and everyone has access to at least a basic education.  However the higher education universities are top notch and fuel the growth of technology.

Art, history, and literature are seen as the biggest differences from a civilized world and the Barbaric.  Museums and libraries can be found all over, and it's not uncommon for the wealthy to bestow Donatives on artist, writers, and archeologists to allow them freedom to work.  However Shandüchans as a whole despise Minimalist art - for it's lack of creativity and deep meaning.

Deeper meaning is important to Shandüchans, and symbolism.  Shapes for instance have symbolic meaning.  Triangles symbolize structure and authority.  Circles represent eternity or perfection.  Squares usually mean devotion, loyalty, and solidarity.  The rhombus - an imperfect square - by contrast represents an imperfect devotion, or an imperfect loyalty.  Other nations are thus usually depicted as a rhombus.  Stars represent defense or righteousness.

Other things have symbolic meaning as well.  Honey, for instance, symbolizes eternal friendship and lasting relations because it doesn't rot.  The gift of a weapon, or one taken in battle is highly prized.

Shandüchans deeply appreciate practical and sturdy designs.  What they build, they want to last.  But they also want such designs to be pleasing to look at, beautiful even.  Much work is usually put into adding beauty, as well as practicality into everything.

## Civil War

After the events of the QH-29 Great Event, and the subsequent struggle to survive, civilization was well along the way to recovery.  Suddenly a great Civil War shattered the peace of the Shandüchan people.  Many died.

The main reason for the war was a major difference of opinion on how to remove the threat of another major terrorist attack like the Great Event.  One portion of the people, under the Emperor, believed safety could be found through making a very powerful state.  A state that could defend itself from any threat.  The other Faction, under the Shan, believed that only wide dispersal of the people could ensure no event, no matter how large, could eradicate the Shandüchan beliefs.   A nomadic and wide spread population that was not a country but an idea.

The war was very costly, and ended with the separation of the Shandüchan people who had been united for thousands of years.  The Shandüchan state, led by the Emperor, issued the order of Mandatory Procreation to revive the Population.  After the population recovered significantly, the order was removed

## Followers of Shan

The Followers of Shan are a breakaway faction from the Shandüchan Empire.  They are not loyal to the Empire.  Many times they have fought with and against the Empire.

They are loyal to two things. 1. The Code- Pragmatic Honor.  2. The Shan- the leader of the Faction.  The Shan is selected through personal Combat to the death.

The Followers are a nomadic people, who are spread out all over the known galaxy.  This is because it is difficult to exterminate a people who are so scattered.  Mostly they are content to provide for their families and live the code of their Forefathers.

## Overview of the Reforms

Guidance of the Past, Visions of the Future.   Those words were written as the Shandüchan Government reformed in the years after the QH-29 Great Event.

Thankfully several secure Data Storage Vaults survived the nuclear disaster, meaning the government had a wealth of information.  With that information they reformed the old Shandüchan system.  Reform was necessary, to handle the changing situation.  The space age was a time of confusion and chaos.

The reform is designed to avoid wide spread rebellion.  Many of the planets in the Shandüchan Empire were conquered, and thus many feared revolt.

## Government

### Emperor Adicus Trajan Sencara

Also known as the Eternal Emperor.

Sencara was born to a poor family in the Shandüchan Royal Tribe, and from this lowly beginning no one expected his rise to immense power.

The rise of Sencara marked a distinct change in the Emperors.  For centuries the Emperors were highly skilled, very capable, but quite old.  Their 50 year reign cut short by declining health or death.  The previous emperor, known as Marcus the bold, later known as Marcus the Forgetful, and lastly as Marcus the Dead, had a very short rule.

Adicus was young and ambitious.  He strode up the Hill of Songs and boldly declared his intention to run for the seat of Emperor. A close friend had advised him to ensure the speech was filmed.  Soon the entire Empire was chanting his name.

The People saw in him a regal eminence, and a royal attitude.  He quickly won the election, easily beating out the more experienced candidates.  Many wondered if he can handle the Rulership of the Empire.  Only time will tell.

Adicus Sencara has but 3 skills to aid him in the running of the Empire.

1. His regal nature-- he has the ability to inspire his people, making them truly believe in his abilities.  He looks and acts like an emperor should.  "I always felt I was born to wear the crown, everyone else just agreed."

 2. He is very skilled at selecting very good advisors.  He knows who would work well in each position, and who gives good advise.  Although he personally isn't a skilled administrator, diplomat, or lawmaker, he always has an advisor by his side.  "I never claimed to be an expert in anything, except listening to advice."

 3. He is highly skilled at personal Combat.  Though not a general, he can win a fight one on one.  Before and even after his rise to Emperor Trajan fought several duels and was even a gladiator- winning 10 out of 12 fights.  "I never trust a man in authority who has never lost a fight.  It makes me wonder if his station was the victor, and not the man."

 He may not be the greatest Emperor Shandücha has ever seen, but he will try.  His reliance on advisors may lead to his downfall, but it certainly will allow him to be a more public figure to the people.  And that, is something the Empire desperately needs right now.

### Position of Emperor

The highest office in the Empire. Must be from Royal Clan.  Elected for a rule of 50 years.  The Emperor can overrule almost any decision made within the Empire, and can take direct control over the military, courts, senate, and research facilities.  He also has the power to appoint men and women to important positions like Moffs, Grand Moffs, and the Grand Strategist.  At times he will deal directly with other nations and their leaders.  And he settles all tied votes within the High Council.

His powers are not absolute, however.  If he is unable to preform his duties, or is not working for the good of the Empire he can be removed from office.

**Imperial Succession**

The Emperor rules for a maximum of 50 years. At the end of his term, or if he resigns, the Emperor hands power to the High Council as the next candidate is selected. All candidates are from the Royal Shandüchan Tribe, and have received basic training in governance. A general election by the People chooses the Emperor, and all citizens, of voting age, are allowed to vote.

Leading up to the election is a period of time in which the candidates complete for the favor of the people. Debates are organized and broadcast throughout the Empire.

If the Emperor dies in office, the High Council takes control of the government until the election can be held.

If the Emperor is unable or unwilling to execute his duties, but refuses to resign his position he is to be removed from office. The High Council will do this. The 8 members vote twice on the issue, on 2 different days to give them additional time to consider this weighty issue. A minimum of 5 votes are required on both days to remove the Emperor

The Emperor can also be removed from office by the population of the Empire. This begins with a Vote of No Confidence in the Senate. If the Supreme Court upholds this vote, it goes to a general vote among the people. If at least 70% of Voting citizens vote to remove the Emperor, he will be removed.

Upon the removal or abdication of the Emperor the High Council takes up the leadership of the empire until elections can be held. The Praytor of the Interior, as Chairman of the Council, presides. The most senior of the Grand Moffs will then be added to the council on a temporary basis to settle all ties in votes.

### Imperial High Council

The second highest authority in the Empire. Through their various offices the council handles the day to day running of the Empire. This 8 member body meets regularly to discuss the state of the Empire, big decisions, and takes control during the succession of Emperor's- until the election can be held.

The Emperor settles all ties within the Council. If he is unable or unwilling to do this, the most senior Grand Moff (or Moff if there are no Grand Moffs.) Will settle the tie.

The Emperor is able to appoint most of the Council Members- The exceptions being The Senator and the Supreme Court Judge, both of which are appointed by their respective body.

The 8 members include--

#### Senator

(elected by the Senate. To serve on the council) The Senate is responsible for creating laws for the Enpire. The Senator on the council keeps the body apprized of current and upcoming laws. Because Senators are elected by the people they represent, this Senator is uniquely able to show the opinions of the population.

#### Supreme Court Judge

(elected by the Supreme Court). The Supreme Court makes rulings in high importance court cases and ensures all laws and decisions within the Council are legal.

#### Grand Strategist.

Highest military office aside from the Emperor. He keeps the council appraised of the military disposition of The State and other nations, as well as advising the body on militaristic options.

#### Praytor of the Interior.

One of the most powerful members of the Council. The task of this Praytor is to inform the body on the current disposition of The State and Population, and ensures that unrest and rebellions do not gain popular support. He is also in charge of matters regarding Citizenship, Community Service, and many other such matters. Chairman of the Council.

#### Praytor of Science and Technology.

This Praytor ensures that the State does not fall behind other nations in the realm of science and Technology. He oversees all schools, collages, research projects, advises the Council on when and what should be researched, and makes suggestions on how existing technology can be utilized to the highest degree.

#### High Consul of Inspection.

Often called the Terror of Corruption or simply The Terror, The High Consul oversees all of the Inspectors known simply as Consuls. The Consuls are tasked with helping government employees, and rooting out corruption in all offices of the Empire. The High Consul is rightly feared, but is likewise scrutinized and universally disliked by everyone within the Government. The High Consul must be a person of high moral fiber.

#### Praytor of The Economy.

Another very powerful and important figure among the High Council. In addition to overseeing the collection of Taxes, Distribution of the Budget, and trade, this Praytor advises the Council on how to best use the resources and increase the wealth of both the State and People of Shandücha.

#### Bond

Bond is not the official title of the Praytor of Intelligence, however it is the name everyone uses. The History behind the name is rich and meaningful, and you will scarcely find a person who does not use the unofficial title-- Bond. Bond is in charge of the Intelligence Services within the Empire- Known as The Shandüchan Intelligence Community K (The SICK). The Bond keeps the Council informed about Security threats, leaks, and relevant information secured by various means.

Each of the Members have a Contingent of Shandüchan Royal Guards for their protection. The more important members are also given Squads of The Old Guard, by the Emperor.

### Additional Governmental Positions.

In Shandücha there is always something to aspire to.  There is always a goal to reach for.  No matter who you are, no matter where you are from you could rise to powerful positions.  From Chief of the Clan, all the way to Praytor of the Interior- the most prominent of the High Council.  Some of the High Positions include, but are not limited to. . .

 1.  Clan Chief.  The Chief is the leader of the building blocks of the Empire. The Clan is basically a tribe made up of several families.  One of the ways a Chief can be removed from power is by the Duel of Honor- a practice that stretches back to the days when all leadership differences were settled in a Trial By Combat.

 2. Mayor-- A city mayor makes sure the town functions Well.

 3. Prefect- A prefect is only slightly above a Mayor in terms of the general Hierarchy.  The Prefect runs several cities.  The added population gives the prefect more responsibility than the mayor.

 4. Govener-- this official oversees large regions with many towns and cities within it.  Governors are vested with substantial power, because  Shandücha believes it is best to settle problems and issues as close to the source as possible.  The Governor oversees the various aspects of their Region and Regional Government, such as The Regional Courts (which are extensive, and handle all most all of the court cases in the Empire.  Relatively few need go to a higher level), enforcement of existing laws, and the drafting of regional laws.  The Governor also has the task of raising, training, and equipping small volunteer militia if needed.

The Governor can raise the volunteer militia at any time, giving him the ability of a rapid response to threats without needing to rely on higher ups.  However the consequences will lie with the governor, along with the rewards.

Anyone in the Empire can form a volunteer militia funded completely by voluntary contributions.  However the Governor is unique in his ability to use government funds to equip his volunteer militia.   There are certain rules he must abide by.  For instance he can only use a certain percentage of government funds, can't break laws, and so on.

Pound for pound the Governor is more powerful than any other leader, including a Grand Moff, even though the office is quite common and low in the grand scheme.  Some even prefer the Position more than that of Satrap or Moff.

 5.  Satraps-. The Satraps oversee the Ruling of an entire planet.  In addition to the regular powers Satraps are given a yearly number of, "Donatives" which can be given to Governors to gain their loyalty in "Extreme Situations".  These Donatives are like small tokens of appreciation, nothing major, but enough to be desired.   They were designed to break up the possible rebellion of Governors who built private armies.  If one or more Governors rebelled, the Satrap of the world could enlist the help of the other Governors to extinguish the revolt, perhaps without even needing Federal Troops.

 6. Moffs- extremely powerful officials who control an entire solar system.   Unlike the 1-5 positions, Moffs are not elected to office by the people, but are commissioned by the Emperor.  Moffs also have access to larger contingents of soldiers than Satraps, as well as more ships.  However, they do not have direct command over these armed forces unless they also hold military rank.

Emperor Sencara Described the Governors, Satraps, and Moffs to the Council like this.  "Governors are the Empires rapid response to crisis.  Satraps, by their wiles preserve what we have.  But the Moffs, Moffs are the iron of the Empire.  Like the tip of a lance, they enforce our will both in foreign land and at home.  The other two attempt to make friends of all the people to regain their election, but the Moffs are free to make the tough calls even if it makes them hated.  It is our duty to wield them effectively.

 7. Grand Moffs-- They control multiple solar systems.

 8. Consoles-- The Consoles are the watchdogs of the Empire. 2 are sent to each of the Satraps, Moffs, Grand Moffs, and in extreme situations Governors.  Their job is to weed out corruption.  There are always 2 Consoles.  Every year the pair is split up and each are given a new partner and a new assignment.

This constant movement and shifting of partners keeps them from laying down a powerbase and becoming corrupt. Upon moving to the new assignment a Console will familiarize himself with his new partner, and the Official he will be helping.  Then they check the work of the Previous Consoles to ensure they didn't give in to the powers of Corruption.  They also act as advisors to the official they have been sent to observe.

 9.  Senate-- The Senate create the laws of the land.  Laws the Entire Empire must obey. (They don't make all the laws, only the one that affect the entire Empire.).   Each senator is Elected by the people they represent, and can bring the concerns of the people to the higher powers.

10. The Supreme Court-- highest court of the land. Comprised of twelve members.

11. Diplomats- they carry the authority to make policy with other nations.

#### Military

Shandücha prides itself on being a powerful Military Force. Shandücha has an excellent military record having won 1. The battle of Supremacy against Los Lobos and Brewtan (with help from ROMAN). 2. The battle (really it was a slaughter) against Baton. 3. A War Game against The Deqharie and Baton-- Facing the full force of both Nations, the Shandüchan Fleet was able to repulse this attack and dealt them incredible loss. Although they fought well, and Shandücha was victorious.

The Military of Shandücha is separated into Army and Navy. Army has the task of conquering and defending planets ect. The Navy handles the defense and conquest of Space.

The Shandüchan military believe every soldier should have the option to be promoted. In at least some people that will inspire them to preform their job in an admirable way to thus receive the promotion. This may take the form of a higher rank, or acceptance into an elite formation. For instance, a person joins the infantry. They are skilled and receive a small rank promotion. After they show themselves highly capable they may be offered a position in the Advanced Infantry. From here he can be given rank promotions and could be moved to more elite formations- like the Commandos, the Guards, the Old Guard, and perhaps even the near mythical Sovereign Protector.

High ranks--

1. Admirals-- a competent naval (space) commander.  Admirals lead small fleets.

2. Grand Admirals- Extremely skilled and competent Naval Commanders who oversee large and powerful fleets.

3. Generals-- competent commander of an Army.

4. Marshals-- Extremely skilled and competent commander of multiple armies.

5. The Chiefs of The General Staff-- Both the Army and Navy each have a Chief of the General Staff. This position is necessary to coordinate the admirals and generals respectively.

6. The Grand Strategist-- Highest Military Position in the Empire.  The position is not one for micro-management, but deal with the big picture.  Policy regarding the training, recruitment, and equipment of troops goes through him and his staff.  He oversees the planning and execution of major campaigns and prepares the defense of the Homeland

## Citizenship

Not everyone who live in Shandücha wants to be Shandüchan.  Some were conquered, others do not agree with Pragmatic Honor.  Thus some prefer their local culture, or something else to that of the Empire.  Because the culture and following Pragmatic Honor is what makes a Shandüchan, such people would not be given Shandüchan citizenship.

Citizenship is reserved only for those who embrace the Glorious Culture of the Empire and the Code. There is a system of benefits designed to entice people to gain citizenship, making it much sought after. Benefits include, but are not limited to--

 1.  Tax breaks

 2. Access to courts above the regional level.

 3. Unrestricted movement within the Empire without Passport.

 4. Reduced community service obligations from 8 hours per month to 3.

 5. Ability to hold public office.

 6. The ability to vote.

To gain citizenship you must first embrace Shandüchan culture, and follow Pragmatic Honor.  But to gain full citizenship, more is required.  Among other things, a person could,

 1.  Buy citizenship

 2. Gain citizenship through military service

 3. Gain citizenship by an acts of generosity to the State. (Like if you defect from your country and give Shandücha valuable technology.)

 4. Service to the Empire.  (If you work hard for the betterment of the State, or save the Emperor's life, ect.)

 5. The Lottery (every year random people are given citizenship in a big televised event- mostly for good Publicity.  And other ways as well.

Citizenship can be revoked, if a person no longer meets the high standards required.  All criminals have their citizenship revoked.

## Community Service

A hallmark from Shandüchas restoration of India.  Community service became a requirement for all in the Space Empire.  Under the Direction of the Secretary of the Interior.  It's a cheap and easy way to clean up, and  beautify the Empire.  Even large scale public works can be accomplished over time.

Everyone must take part (if you are in the country more than 30 days and are at least 10 years old.). The requirement is 3 hours per month for citizens, 8 hours per month for non citizens.  Even the Emperor must preform his monthly 3 hours.  The work is organized through local government, and different tasks are given to different people based on their age and ability.

## Protectorates

The Kingdom of Zashana and Voh Tarra have both willingly agreed to become protectorates of Shandücha.