Coronan Exceptionalism

> "It is through experience that we derive true understanding, theory alone can only lay the groundwork for the eventuality that is reality."
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 - King Ko'ak

## Treatise Text

Written by King Ko'ak in 23 NAC, Coronan Exceptionalism is a treatise that discusses the unique position the Kingdom of Zoscia finds itself in among the intergalactic community. Explaining the nations policies and perspectives on a variety of issues, a sizable portion of the treatise is considered a condensed descriptor of Zoscias foreign policy and approach towards other peoples. Created for outsiders and citizens alike, it delves into Coronan identity and Ko'aks perspective on a variety of issues he finds himself confronted with as the first ruler of a spacebound Zoscia.

### Coronan Identity

What makes and defines a Coronan lies within the body and soul, two inseparable pieces of the grand creation that is our species. While we stand as equals among our peers and will valiantly oppose the superiority that is derived from hubris, we are exceptional none the less to our benefit and dismay. Primarily utilized to flaunt misguided conclusions on the origin of power, exceptionalism is a terminology which can also mean differentiation and singularity in a choir of nations. We stand alone in our burdensome existence as bearers of The Lights sanctified words and tenders to Coronas ever expanding gift to the universe. Our duty is one unmatched in importance and scrutiny among the cosmos, failure to moderate our gifts could prove disastrous for those ignorant of the repercussions they bring. However it is through this same duty that we harness our true potential as honorable guardians and caretakers of this magnificent reality we have come to awaken everyday within.

To be Coronan is to dedicate ones own life to community, faith, the needs of Corona and further more the eternal task of lighting a path for innocents in the darkness. Love is our currency and as the Succession War has proven, we cannot afford the price of hatred or lest risk our individuality in the process. We are the wayward few who find amazement in what others consider mundane, the translators of colors we once gawked at upon the black and white fields of our home. Tradition and open mindedness are usually contrasted against one another, an impossibility which has seen countless nations collapse both abroad and within our own history; yet it is these same rivals which fuel our ascent and progress.

Without even considering the biological, we stand alone in our ideology and separation from the material interests that holds most societies together. Our exceptionalism is divinely inspired, the repercussions of our actions being ones which will remain long after our departure from this mortal coil; an awe inspiring yet terrifying reality considering failure is all the more devastating.

### Nation and Faith

Addressed centuries ago during the creation of Kolagah and Zoscia, I still feel inclined to bring up and discuss the intricate division of Nation and Faith. This divide exists not to restrain and cause atrophy for the faith, but instead to liberate it of material weights and preserve its purity from the corrupting influence that is governmental reality. The Light shall always be the nations religion and its beliefs upheld as the morality of Zoscian thought, nevertheless that does not mean the church should dictate the monarchs position nor the opposite. Both fulfill a necessary function for the people and must be allowed unfettered to coexist as separate institutions with respectable authority. By removing politics from religious decision making, we have preserved the sanctity of our holy men and kept scripture unwavering in face of times relentless march; Zoscia may change, but the faith shall remain eternal.

Theocratic regimes although pure in their initial intentions, the faith usually becomes secondary to politics when confronted by religious scandals and political power. Priests transform into politicians to preserve their authority and the holy texts become fluid to the whims of its writers, a fate worse than death for any religion. Such a reality cannot befall the sacred Light for it is through our unwavering worship of him and adherence to his holy texts that we find the flame of purpose, not the flawed mortals attempting to weave his words to their own agenda.

### Deviancy and the Kingdom

It would be delusional to assume that every Coronan operated similarly to a collective conscious and rejected all forms of deviancy, reality is flawed and to deviate is only natural for sentient beings to do. In Zoscias particular circumstance, deviancy is discouraged and light is given to particular ones in hopes of deterring vulnerable Coronans. Unity is of paramount concern to the nation and through radical diversity comes discourse regarding the Kingdoms direction and role in the average citizens life. Criminality for deviants only arises from proactive breaking of national laws which apply to all citizens of Zoscias, they are nonetheless equals despite their rejection of the status quo. Citizens are allowed to take it upon themselves to raise awareness for different forms of deviancy as long as it does not infringe upon the rights given to deviants by The Light and treats them respectfully like any other citizen. Those which attempt to correct deviancy through the usage of force are subject to criminal prosecution.

Granted equal rights like any other Coronan, deviants are primarily combated with social stigmatization and consensual programs to help readjust them to the greater part of society. Laws exist as well to help protect them and ensure their continual participation in society, empathy being a promoted virtue to help foster kinship in spite of differences.

Ideologues are allowed to operate within the nation, however pursuit of their agendas outside of legal means is subject to criminal law. Those lawfully elected are allowed to retain power if they abide by the nations goal for unity and its customs. Sexual deviancy between consensual adults outside of what is outlined in the holy texts is deterred and they are unable to be wed, all other forms of sexual activity as a result are illegal since consent is not given. Followers of other religions fall under similar legality with public places of worship being banned, but the actual practice and private ceremonies being deterred. Societal restrictions are not allowed to be utilized against deviants outside of the ones specified for each specific type, equal opportunity being a government enforced policy for all citizens.

Criminal deviants fall under their own category since their rights are curtailed depending on the extent of the offense. Minor offenders suffer no revocations and are allowed total equality and the ability to vote even while imprisoned. Reformation programs are mandatory for criminal deviants and community service is institutionalized to ensure criminals still contribute to society. Moderate and major offenders suffer longer sentences and lose the right to vote permanently, the latter of the two being placed on a Sajenki watchlist for the remainder of their life outside of prison. Maximum offenders are deemed unable to be reformed and are placed on death row, them having to work for the state until their day arrives to be executed. Even with the removal of rights and death sentences, efforts are made by Coronan priests to help prisoners reform and come to terms with their state of affairs; all Coronans remaining equal for reformation in the churches eyes.

Strict measures are taken in regards to deviants, however it is fueled by compassion and not hatred to see these groups reaffirmed with society. All are seen as equals in Zoscia and The Light which loves all of his creations regardless of their disposition. Deviancy within other nations is treated with the same respect offered to Coronan citizens and is not allowed to dictate foreign relations.

### Outsider Terminology

Terminology to describe non-Coronans has been a rapidly developing vocabulary with a flurry of renditions that have further complicated the exact word to utilize. The most subscribed to term is the archaic "Colored" which has been spoken throughout Coronan history to describe the inhabitants of worlds that aren't Black and White. Outsider is a more recent term alongside Xeno in an attempt to be considerate for cultures who may take offense to the archaic term. Less commonly used is simply alien or lost ones in reference to the faiths teachings, the latter of which is more so directed towards hostile peoples. Colored currently reigns as the main descriptor considering our unique relationship with the other chormatics lacking in our society, it being held up as a positive term for those blessed in such bountiful arrays.

Fascination lies at the heart of our approach towards different colors, this same view extending to those gifted by it. The experiences and emotions evoked through such a diverse selection is one many Coronans will never feel and so the cusp of connection they have to such a foreign reality is the word itself, hence "Colored".

### Colored Dileema

In our vast history, inquires into the nature of beings beyond our own homeworld were commonplace among philosophers and scientists alike who all cobbled together countless theories for what lied beyond the veil of our world. Little did we know exactly to what extent we were wrong, many daresay even believed intelligent life was impossible beyond our solar system let alone so diverse in color. In my short reign among the stars, I can confidently say that I could have never expected the universe to be filled such a self destructive and violent bunch of hooligans who in the same stroke are the most industrious and redeemable peoples I have ever lied eyes upon. I am at an impasse in regards to our most wondrous of companions within this vast universe, one of both acceptance and revulsion at the cultural shock we have found ourselves ravaged by. However, I would never have it any other way for this discovery has only drawn us closer to understanding the very nature of this life given to us by our God.

It is with this heartfelt account of the Colored that I express my fascination with such unique creations and find strength both in our differences and similarities. Zoscia as a nation and people has found its international identity following an era of great devastation and it is all because of our quarrelsome yet lovable all the same neighbors that we have embraced our newfound political purpose. Reservations may still exist between my people and the Colored, however it is out of consideration that we maintain a respectable distance so as to not incense such a varied people which we still do not fully understand. When posed with the question of equality, I can most jubilantly agree that we are equals and will not waver from such a divinely given right to all sentient beings regardless of circumstance.

Our first impressions may have been dire, but it is through our uplifting of the downtrodden that we have found the true gifts that the Colored have to offer. Exotic in their cultures and values, the innovations and ideas of these countless civilizations we have had the pleasure of meeting is all worthy of the same preservation our own is granted. While we may walk the truth path to salvation, it does not mean others are unworthy of joining us on the same journey in their own unique ways. While we may serve a purpose separate from the greater universes inhabitants, I am honored nonetheless to share such a wondrous reality with them.

### The Unbarred Kingdom

Infatuation with the chormatics we lack may lead us to operating in a more curious manner, however that does not mean the idea of an Unbarred Kingdom can exist. As the ruler of my people and the bearer of Coronas gift, I cannot in good faith open the nation to unregulated access and trade. The reasoning behind such a decision is weaved not only into the fabric of our society, however the biological as well considering the means in which Corona spreads itself among the stars. Experienced as we may be in our own civilization, it is not a weakness to admit our ignorance to the inner workings of other nations and international diplomacy; like a newborn babe, we are innocent and unaware of the greater happenings that take hold of Aoshtais political courts. To subject my people to such an environment would most definitely be catastrophic and is not something I can do in good conscious; it is something that can never come to pass considering our nature, a burden we most learn to overcome in our own way.

Biologically it is a threat considering Corona spreads through the vegetation of our worlds and the seeds it produces, unfettered trade would most certainly see unconsensual peoples transformed into our image. The gift of Black and White must be willingly embraced, no soul shall have it forced upon them by the carelessness of others. Through regulating traffic flow to and from our Kingdom, we can destroy any and all biological contaminants that may find themselves commuting on vessels, thus ensuring the safety of all non-Coronans. That is not to say interaction cannot be commenced with the Kingdom, in fact it is the opposite. Scheduled visitations can be conducted within the nation by important officials and is welcomed. Colored who find themselves under our protection live harmoniously within our countless protectorates who retain nominal independence while still serving our cause. Ample consideration has been taken to preserve the safety of those that could unwittingly be accosted by our way of life.

It is a whimsical dream to see an Unbarred Zoscia, however reality calls for a less idealized policy so as to keep everyone safe.

### Rhyanism and God

The grandeur faith Galactic faith that dominates the majority of Aoshtai, Rhyanism is something that impacts the lives of every inhabitant within her holy realm and that includes Corona as well. It is a magnificent religion which has stood the test of time, however I am certain in my convictions that Rhya is not the divine being that her children make her out to be. The validity of her existence is one that shall always remain debatable considering her form is the Aoshtai Galaxy itself, but that is not to say she does not exist in a similar state of being that has befallen our own beloved Corona. Infact it is my belief that Rhya is simply a stepping stone to The Light just as Corona was for us, prestidigitators being the primary driving force behind her continued worship and the faiths failure to evolve past the worship of the material.

This stance places Zoscia in a tenuous position between denying the archaic faiths of the material or nurturing them into their inevitable evolution of divinity. Rhyas existence is unlikely, however we have been proven wrong in the past and do not hesitate in conceding our failed evaluations. To assist us in this endeavor of religious studies, we have taken a stance of cooperation with Rhyanists in a bid to further learn of their ancient faith and perhaps even the means in which to tap into such a beings existence. Theoretical in all but thought, contacting Rhya in a similar fashion to Corona could be a revolutionary project that may finally propel her faith into the divinity it has been wanting for millennia. This may also help us shed light on the full extent of The Lights grandiose plan and absolute authority over beings such as Corona and Rhya.

Deviation in Rhyanism has only further solidified our decentralized policy towards The Lights religious institutions, material authority having proved devastating for the scriptures of Rhya as it now twists in countless directions. Divine authority of the text has allowed our faith to remain unfractured nor hypocritical in its teachings, a state of religious unity we wish to uphold throughout Zoscia. This is only one of many lessons we have learned from Rhyanism so far, its failures being noted so that we do not activate the same pitfalls they were unaware of; such lessons come with a respect we attribute to the old faith as well, their similarities to early worship of Corona only furthering our once unknown bond.

### The Aoshanti Empire

No nation has ever left such an impact as the Aoshanti have, the rise of Rhyanism and countless nations have the old Empire to thank for their origins. It left a permanent mark on the majority of galactic society and culture, a father from which all derive a level of kinship from. We do not stand among these ranks and find ourselves once again exceptional in our neutrality towards the historic nation and its efforts. The preservation of history and the teachings from it are of paramount concern to us, however Imperial ruins do not offer any more appeal than any other lost civilization; they are all equal in our eyes. The exact government attributed to the Aoshanti is one we find appalling on multiple levels and its efforts to subjugate any and all in the name of faith is in rivalry with our own beliefs. It was nonetheless a monumental part of galactic history and is well deserving of the idolization and praise it receives, we simply do not hold that same level of connection that others may feel.

In light of this disconnect, we feel the same neutral attitude towards its two successor states known as the Aoshanti Republic and the Aoshanti Empire which have retained the traditions of old and are even attempting to bring some back from the ashes of history. I cannot fault the Aoshanti Empire for wishing to bring back its lost pride and position of power for we Coronans would certainly do the same in face of powers who desire to lord over us. However I cannot condone the conquest of the entire galaxy which includes my people as well, such a tragedy should never come to pass or else it will spell doom for our society and dreams. Unlike many of my peers, I will not judge the Republic and Empire off of historicity alone for the sins of the father may not always follow its children. Only through their actions in the present will I decide my stance on the issue if there is one even to make.

### Coronan Dream

Within all nations lies an inherit ambition, a dream of sorts they strive for and Zoscia remains no different in this aspect. We like all peoples have an agenda, however it is not malicious unlike countless other rising stars and adherent powers. Ours is one of transparent simplicity and without hidden clause's to deceive the eye, we wish to establish a powerful Kingdom within the northern Reach which oversees the protection of all its inhabitants both patriots and outsiders alike. The gift of Corona shall spread among the northern stars and envelope our worlds into a haven for all that is Black and White, our paradise from which we can operate from without threat of destruction or subjugation. Our faith will be shared with all that will open their hearts to our words and we shall oversee the safety of our countless colored protectorates that live in peace under our graceful rule.

Outside of the territories we inhabit, cooperation will flourish with any and all that treat us with respect and honest dealings. Neutrality while not an exact policy of Zoscia, it is certainly our most common disposition until swayed either which way. Internationally we will place the Kingdoms interests first, however a substantial focus of our diplomatic dealings will be to help uplift failing nations and nurture scarred peoples back to health. We are guardians of order and caretakers of the innocent first and foremost, any and all who align themselves with said interests are welcomed in our hallowed halls as a sibling in the The Lights eternal splendor. Through our efforts, we hope to bring a new era of harmony to the greater galaxy and perhaps inevitably the cluster as all peoples turn to Zoscia for help in times of need or spiritual guidance; just like our God has done for us, we will nurture the universe and ensure Corona thrives eternally as our surrogate mother.

The Coronan dream is in a way a dream everyone can partake in, one of peace and prosperity with equal respect given to all. It is through my short reign among the stars that I vow to see this eventuality realized and Zoscia uplifted to the position divinely chosen for it. Joyful choirs sing through my soul when I think of the years to come in Aoshtai and my heart burns brighter at the thought of how many souls my people will guide through the darkness and into the ever loving light.

King Ko'ak, first king of Zoscia