De Protectorate Potens Subamnis

The Protectorate of Potens Subamnis is an enigmatic and perilous oceanic realm that lies hidden beneath the shimmering surface of the sea and one of the Realms of the Tritons. This realm is known for its treacherous undercurrents, so formidable that even the Tritons, its native inhabitants, must rely on large marine creatures or powerful spells to navigate its depths. Potens Subamnis is a realm where beauty and danger coexist in a delicate balance, a place where the fate of an entire world hangs in the balance.

It holds the distinction of being the first known Triton protectorate and, until recently, the most powerful one. The Stellcaden, a devastating conflict, had cost the protectorate much of its power and status, leaving scars both physical and metaphorical upon its denizens and territory. Despite the heavy toll exacted by the Stellcaden, Potens Subamnis remains resolute, with the memory of past glory serving as a beacon of hope for a brighter future amidst the shadows of uncertainty..

## Governance

At the heart of this underwater domain lies Potens Subamnis City, a unique metropolis that stands as a testament to Triton life and culture. Unlike many other protectorates, this city is under the indirect rule and protection of the colossal sea dragon Abyssusaecor, a revered and ancient being. Queen Tsunadyn, the city's nominal ruler, governs alongside Abyssusaecor, acting as the bridge between the Triton populace and their formidable protector.

Abyssusaecor's leadership is unique in that the Tritons of Potens Subamnis have willingly embraced him as their protector, ceding much of their governance and decision-making authority to him. Their deep reverence for Abyssusaecor stems from his unique ability to venture into the depths of the ocean, a realm even Tritons cannot reach. This singular attribute makes him a revered emissary of Sier, the goddess of the moon and seas, in the eyes of the Tritons.

Potens Subamnis is also unique by the large popular of Merfolk it holds. The vicinity to Esinmar, the birthplace of the Merfolk, and the extraordinary relationship the city has with Vill'terthalanlax the black brings much of the Merfolk to the city. The Merfolk ordinarily assist the Tritons in securing the depths and assist in protecting the trade ways and the coasts from the spreading madness of the depths as it is their purpose.

## The Council of Elders

Subamnis, like other protectorates, had an elder council to serve under their queen. The council consists of the following:

1. **Dux Belli (General of the Army): Alerius Subamnith**, a Triton male, commands the formidable Triton army, leading with tactical brilliance and unwavering devotion to the protection of Potens Subamnis. Known for his strategic acumen and battle-hardened experience, the Dux ensures the city's defense and coordinates military campaigns against encroaching threats. Alerius is a veteran commander of the Stellcaden. He was a key figure in that war. During that time he survived and was healed from the Madness of the depths. He lost his right eye in that war, which is now covered with a shell, rumored to have magical properties and also his right arm which is replaced with a stump bearing a Trident. With a commanding presence and deep-rooted sense of duty, Alerius inspires the Triton warriors to fight valiantly in the name of their sacred cause.
2. **Pontifex (Head of the Church of Sier): Selyn Subamnith**, a female Triton, holds the highest spiritual authority within the Church of Sier, the revered faith of the Tritons. A wise and revered figure, the Pontifex guides the religious practices and rituals of the Triton community, ensuring the harmony between devotion and zealotry. Selyn is the granddaughter of the famed king Hiruzas. He inspired her to reach for great heights and she believes that her faith will guide her to succeed him one day, ascending to the throne of Potens Subamnis. Through her deep connection with the goddess of the moon and seas, the Selyn provides spiritual guidance and imparts moral wisdom to the Triton populace, reinforcing their unwavering commitment to their sacred mission.
3. **Praefectus Civitatis (Governor of the City): Marius Subamnith**, a male Triton, serves as the esteemed governor of Potens Subamnis, overseeing the city's administration and governance. During the Stellcaden Marius used to be Alerius Quartermaster. After the war the two remained close and with Alerius' recommendation, Marius was appointed as the Praefectus Civitatis. With his keen sense of leadership and a meticulous approach to civic affairs, Marius upholds the laws and regulations that maintain order and prosperity within the city. Known for his unwavering dedication to justice and the well-being of the Triton populace, the Praefectus embodies the values of fairness, discipline, and efficient governance.
4. **Praeses Justitiae (Presider of Justice): Aeran Subamnith**, a female Triton Paladin, embodies the pinnacle of the Triton justice system, ensuring the enforcement of laws and the dispensation of fair judgment. A bastion of righteousness and equity, Aeran presides over legal proceedings, resolving disputes and upholding the moral fabric of Triton society. Aeran is an old Triton nearly 200 years old. At the twilight of her life she is blessed with great wisdom and experience. Many of the paladins and clerics of Subamnis have been tutored by her and she is regarded as one of the most respectable individuals in the city. With her impartiality, wisdom, and commitment to justice, the Justitiae safeguards the rights of all citizens and ensures the preservation of law and order.
5. **Ingenius Operum (Master of Engineering): Zizix** a Kua-Toa male, is a masterful, showcases exceptional resourcefulness and ingenuity in the art of crafting traps, intricate contraptions, and advanced siege engines. With meticulous precision, he designs and constructs awe-inspiring structures and formidable war machines that bolster the city's defenses. Drawing inspiration from the depths of the sea, the Ingenius creations, such as ballistae and other ingenious contraptions, ensure Potens Subamnis stands as a bastion of strength and technological prowess. Their expertise in engineering and unwavering dedication to innovation make them an invaluable asset to the council, fortifying the city's resilience in times of conflict.
6. **Archmecatoris (Master of Commerce): Zenithar**, a male Merfolk, holds the esteemed position of Archmecatoris in Subamnis. Originating from the realm of Esimar, Zenithar is highly regarded for his expertise in trade diplomacy. As a key facilitator, he plays a vital role in coordinating and fostering inter-realm trade, ensuring the seamless flow of goods, information, and cultural exchange. Through his diligent efforts, Zenithar contributes significantly to the city's economic growth, while forging prosperous and harmonious relationships with neighboring realms. His unwavering dedication and skillful navigation of the intricacies of commerce have elevated Subamnis' international standing and cemented its position as a thriving center of trade.

These council members, each bearing their unique responsibilities, form the backbone of Potens Subamnis' governance and protect its people from external threats. With their collective wisdom, expertise, and unwavering dedication, they ensure the prosperity, defense, and harmonious functioning of the Triton city.

## Cultural Traditions

The Tritons of Potens Subamnis are renowned for their deep reverence for tradition. Their society is steeped in ancient customs and rituals, some of which may appear archaic and, at times, seemingly meaningless to outsiders. These traditions have been passed down through generations, and the Tritons hold them dear, even if their original purposes have been lost to the sands of time.

To the Tritons of Potens Subamnis, these customs are a way of preserving their cultural identity and maintaining a connection to their storied history. While some may question the relevance of certain traditions, the Tritons remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding them. In their eyes, these rituals are a testament to their resilience and enduring spirit, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, they stand unwavering, bound by the threads of their shared heritage.

## Trade

Potens Subamnis enjoys a unique relationship with Vill'terthalanlax, the great black dragon of the sea. This affiliation allows the Tritons to engage in frequent trade, with Vill'terthalanlax's insatiable interest in exotic, otherworldly creatures proving advantageous to the Tritons. In return, the dragon provides wisdom, guidance, and valuable goods, solidifying Potens Subamnis' international standing and economic prosperity.

## Madness of the Depths

The protectorate of Potens Subamnis faces a relentless and pervasive threat known as the "Madness of the Depths." In this region, the abyssal madness is more rampant than in other areas. Monstrous creatures such as lobster-like behemoths and tentacled humanoids lurk, preying upon unsuspecting inhabitants and oceanic communities. The cause of this heightened madness remains a mystery, but Abyssusaecor, the sea dragon, is committed to halting its spread and protecting his domain.

## The Stellcaden - Shooting Star War

One of the most significant chapters in the history of the Tritons of Potens Subamnis is the harrowing conflict known as the Shooting Star War (The Stellcaden in Triton language). This devastating war marked a turning point for the protectorate, reshaping its destiny and leaving indelible scars on its collective memory.

The war was ignited by a celestial body that plummeted from the heavens and struck the ocean floor with cataclysmic force, severely damaging the once-stable depths. This celestial impact not only ruptured the ocean's foundation but also bestowed upon the Inanisii, malevolent entities from the depths, newfound abilities. The Inanisii, once mindless savages, now possessed a sinister hivemind capability that elevated them into cunning adversaries.

As the protectorate grappled with this new, insidious threat, King Hiruzas, a revered leader of the Tritons, led his people with unwavering determination. Under his guidance, the Tritons mounted a valiant defense against the encroaching darkness.

However, the war exacted a heavy toll, with many Tritons sacrificing their lives in the relentless battle against the Inanisii. King Hiruzas himself, a symbol of wisdom and leadership, ultimately paid the highest price for his dedication, falling alongside Maritimarastra, the mate of the great sea dragon Abyssusaecor, in the war's final, desperate effort.

While the Tritons' resilience is commendable, the war left the protectorate scarred, weakened, and essentially a shadow of its former self. Years after the war's end, the Tritons of Potens Subamnis are still in the process of recovery and rebuilding. They continue to suffer the profound consequences of that fateful event, a stark reminder of the enduring cost of defending their realm against the relentless chaos of the depths.