recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Grand Secretary of Arian

In the Kingdom of Arian, the **Grand Secretary** was one of three penultimate officials in the realm and superintendant over household and state affairs.

The Grand Secretary was responsible for directing the so-called *secretariat*, a body of court ministers who governed the laws of the realm, diplomacy, and the royal household. He was answerable directly to the Grand High Chancellor.

For any law or edict to be considered legitimate in the Kingdom, it required two stamps of authority. The first of these was the Black Seal, held *ex officio* by the Grandmaster of Laws. The second was the Golden Seal, held *ex officio* by the Grand Secretary. Furthermore, the Grand Secretary's interpretation of law was given precedence over any other reading.

The appointment of ambassadors similarly required the joint approval of the Grandmaster of Letters and the Grand Secretary. Independent diplomacy by subjects of the King was discouraged, if not at times strictly forbidden, and as such the Grand Secretary effectively controlled diplomatic policy in the realm.

The Household of the King was managed by the Grandmaster of the Household, who reported to the Grand Secretary. Permanent appointments to the Household required his approval, though temporary ones did not. Additionally, for a *maîtresse-en-titre* to be considered legitimate, she was to be approved by the Grand Secretary.

The multifaceted nature of his role meant that the Grand Secretary was often inundated with edicts, letters of recommendation, and appointments, to consider and approve. It is no wonder then that many delegated much to deputies, personally stamping only the most important documents. During the reign of King Arthur V, an edict banning the use of *'copied seals'* was proclaimed, suggesting some Grand Secretaries of the past had forged seals for their subordinates to use.

The Grand Secretary received an annual stipend. Additionally, the taking of gifts was discouraged but not forbidden.

1. ↑ It was by his alliance with the Grand Secretary against the Queen Mother that Arthur, Prince of Eirias successfully orchestrated the union of Henri XIX and Marguerite of Torlan.
Gilles V of Argel

**Gilles V** was a Prince of Argel.

Gilles was famed as a sorceror-prince, gifted with natural magic ability. He surrounded himself with wizards and sponsored the expansion of the Mages Guild within his realm.

When his nephew died in 3E 279, Gilles was left heirless. Unwilling [or unable] to remarry and without any legitimate offspring, Gilles designated his only known child (an illegitimate daughter) as his heir. The Prince died fourteen years later in 3E 293.
Rufius Tiro

**Rufius Tiro** was an Imperial banker. He was a cousin of Umberius Tiro, head of the Tiro Bank, and was the manager of the bank's branch in the Kingdom of Torlan.

## **Summary**

Many creditors of Emperor Uriel V were bankrupted when his invasion of Akavir ended in disaster in 3E 290. Owing to Umberius's reluctance to loan money to rulers – even emperors – the Tiro Bank was spared ruin. The collapse of many rival banking houses was an opportunity for Umberius to expand his bank, opening new branches throughout the Empire. He appointed his cousin Rufius to establish and manage a branch in the High Rock city of Torlan (where its cloth merchants had hitherto solicited loans from the ruined Cestius bank). As with all general managers of the Tiro Bank, Rufius was a shareholder of his branch.

Notwithstanding the prudence of his cousin, Rufius considered it advantageous to have influential nobles (and even royals) indebted to him, even if such debts accumulated and were rarely repaid in full (if at all). To offset such losses, Rufius was a far less forgiving creditor to less distinguished clients.

Rufius counted the prodigal Duke of Corsen among his debtors. He was also a financier of the Peace of Torlan, incurring the admonition of Umberius, who threatened to dissolve the partnership.
Berengere of Torlan

**Berengere** was the ruling Queen of Torlan from 3E 201 until her death in 3E 223. She was the first queen regnant of Torlan in the Third Era.

## **Biography**

Berengere was the daughter of King Elzear V of Torlan, who was recognised as High King a year after her birth. She was only four years old when her father died, and was thus raised in the court of her elder brother King Elzear VI. When the childless Elzear was killed in battle in 3E 201, Berengere succeeded him. The twenty-two-year-old queen was unmarried, and the advisors whom she inherited from her brother

The new queen, aged twenty-two, was unmarried. Her advisors, whom she inherited from her brother, hoped for a prestigious and advantageous match (particularly in the aftermath of King Elzear V's disastrous wars). Berengere, however, was in love with the handsome knight Sir Jacques Noyon. Although distinguished on the battlefield and the tiltyard, Sir Jacques was not regarded as a suitable spouse for a queen. Despite the protestations of her council, Berengere was resolved to marry Sir Jacques (even threatening dissenters with execution).

Thus within a year of her accession, Berengere married Sir Jacques Noyon. She appeased her court and council by stipulating that any offspring of this union would be born into the House of Clerjus, ensuring the continuity of the ruling dynasty. However, she insisted that her husband be titled *king*.

*Unfinished*
Disgrace of Theodolinde

The **Disgrace of Theodolinde** was an event in the Kingdom of Arian which marked the final end of the High Queen Mother Theodolinde's influence at court.

On the 3rd of First Seed, in 3E 299, during a hunt, the rivalries between the High Queen Mother and her many opponents reached a crisis. In the King's tent, Theodolinde complained to her son that she had been slighted by both his wife Queen Marguerite and the Prince of Eirias. Henri's attempts to calm his mother failed pitifully and she became increasingly enraged by his *'contentment with the malignment of his mother and inaction at her insult'*. Soon, most of the present nobility formed an audience.

When the King's mother left his tent, already embittered, she was surprised by the gathered crowd. This surprise quickly became anger. Theodolinde launched into a tirade, attacking almost all present. When Alberic, the Prince of Seren, attempted to put an end to the rant, the High Queen Mother turned her focus to him in particular. She accused him of various treasons and treacheries. By now, the King had emerged from his tent. Loud arguing continued as Theodolinde and the gathered noblemen traded criticisms.

Theodolinde commanding her son arrest Prince Alberic and any other man who spoke against her. The King, who struggled to muster any response, was saved by the sudden arrival of his wife, her company, and his champion Almeric. The Queen, confused, asked the crowd for an explanation. Theodolinde now directed her attack to Marguerite, calling her a viper and worse. Almeric then curtly reminded Theodolinde that she spoke to the Queen, demanding her apology. When she continued, he threw his gauntlet in her direction.

The gathering finally and suddenly fell silent. Theodolinde, seeing that her son would not defend her even now that his champion had challenged her, left in horror. Later that evening, Henri quietly reassured the Princes of Eirias and Seren of his support. Theodolinde once more returned to exile in the country, thereafter never returning to the capital.
Vidame of Arlais

The **Vidame**, sometimes the **Vidame of Arlais**, was a title associated with the Temple of Glorinel. In the Third Era, the Vidame was the chief secular official in the service of the Archbishop.

## **Background**

Though a spiritual institution, the Temple of Glorinel possessed significant secular power. In addition to its religious authority, the Temple held numerous land grants from the Archdukes of Glorinel. Among these were castles, which were otherwise normally held by the feudal nobility, and towns. There was also a standing force of mercenaries, varying in size across history, whose allegiance was to the Archbishop. The offices of *vidame* developed in this context.

The vidames initially performed a purely military function as commanders of the Temple’s forces and nothing more. Soon, however, they came to hold and administrate those castles on Temple land. In the last centuries of the Second Era, the Vidames of Arlais (named for the eponymous castle they were headquartered in) became the most influential. Reforms in the early part of the Third Era saw all but the Vidame of Arlais abolished.

The Vidame’s secular charges thereafter rapidly grew in number, one office after another absorbed, until finally the Vidame became the ultimate secular authority in the Temple.
Simon Pasquier

**Simon Pasquier**, sometimes called **Simon of Ebyr**, was a Breton priest and the Bishop of Torlan from 3E 281.

## **Biography**

Simon Pasquier was born into obscurity in the Duchy of Ebyr. Ordained as a priest, he entered the service of Lord Robert, brother of Duke Richard XI. When Lady Emma, the duke's niece, was married to King Berenger II of Torlan in 3E 270, Pasquier was appointed her intercessor and was part of her entourage which journeyed to Torlan.

Queen Emma died in childbirth two years later. King Berenger, perhaps wishing to preserve the memory of his beloved late wife, retained Pasquier as his own intercessor (the king was not especially religious). Four years later, the king installed Pasquier as the Adjutor of Zenithar in Torlan Cathedral. He was not considered a diligent adjutor, spending most of his time at the royal court (where he remained the king's intercessor). Nevertheless, in 3E 281 the king successfully pressured the other cathedral adjutors to elect Pasquier as bishop. Thus, a lowborn Ebyri became the highest ecclesiastic in the kingdom of Torlan.

As in all matters, the king's motive for promoting his intercessor was financial. Since the reign of the sainted king Elzear IV, Torlan Cathedral was exempted from taxation. King Berenger II did not attempt to abolish this privilege, but obliged his creature Bishop Pasquier to offer the royal treasury substantial *'pious gifts'* and loans with negligible interest. These exactions made the bishop extremely unpopular among the cathedral clergy.

Pasquier lost influence at court following the death of King Berenger II in 3E 292; Queen Regent Adelaide detested any remnant of her late husband's first wife. He nevertheless presided over the coronation of Elzear VII in the same year, placing the crown on the king's head. The queen's efforts to depose Pasquier and replace him with her own candidate were half-hearted. The bishop's conduct hardly improved, for he appropriated cathedral funds to build sumptuous lodgings for himself in the city's South Bank district, living separately from his clergy.

Bishop Pasquier was not restored to favour during the regime of Engelard of Morfa. Despite his own acquisitiveness, the Archmagister was deeply pious and despaired at the bishop's iniquities. Engelard demonstrated his reverence for the cathedral by exempting it from his expedients to fund the Peace of Torlan; he instead beseeched its clergy to pray for the Peace's success. Conversely, the Archmagister affronted Bishop Pasquier by re-crowning King Elzear VII himself in 3E 297.
Henri of Seren (son of Arthur XII of Arian)

**Henri of Seren** was a Breton prince. He was the son of King Arthur XII of Arian and his heir apparent.

As both father and son died in a fire, the throne passed to Henri's uncle Aymar II. Later, his younger brother Arthur (assumed to have perished in the same flame) emerged as a pretender to the throne. Arthur's son, called *the Restorer*, took the throne in 3E 244.
Great Chantry of Akatosh

The **Great Chantry of Akatosh** is a temple in the Temple District of the Imperial City. It is the capital's largest temple dedicated to Akatosh – the Dragon God of Time and chief deity of the Nine Divines – and is administered by the Imperial Church's Order of Akatosh.

The temple is a large white marble rotunda covered by a coffered dome, at the top of which is a wide oculus. Its interior is richly decorated and brightly illuminated by an abundance of braziers and candles, symbolic of the Dragon God's fire.

As its name suggests, the Chantry of Akatosh is celebrated for its liturgical chant. At various times in the day the temple's priests and priestesses recite a chant in praise of Akatosh and the Emperor, heard throughout the city courtesy of the temple's excellent acoustics.
Theodolinde of Starry Haven

**Theodolinde**, known sometimes as **Theodolinde of Arian** but more usually as **Theodolinde of Starry Haven**, was a Breton queen as consort to Henri XVIII and mother to Henri XIX of Arian. She held significant influence in the royal court, particularly in the minority of her son, and was one part of the period known as the Rule of Three Queens.

She first came to the court as cupbearer for King Henri XVII (already called *the Restorer*), chosen from the near relations of the Queen's ladies in waiting. Years later, Theodolinde became romantically involved with his successor Henri XVIII. She was, in fact, one of many mistresses. She went on to marry Henri.

Theodolinde's marriage to the King was scandalous. She was the eldest daughter of a landed knight and far beneath the expected rank of a queen. Many in the court attempted to prevent the King from marrying Theodolinde but failed to do so.

Though at first she loved her husband, Theodolinde grew to detest Henri, serial adulterer that he was. It is likely she imagined the King would abandon his other mistresses, especially once she bore him a legitimate son and heir. Theodolinde eventually left the capital to reside in the country despite her brother-in-law’s plea that she at least maintain appearances. The failure of the royal marriage was well-known and only produced one heir. The King had many of his own illegitimate children, fathered on ladies of the court, who each drew greater disgust from the Queen.

When Henri XVIII died, Theodolinde sent for her brother-in-law. She asked him to gather her husband’s baseborn sons and daughters and put them to the sword. When he refused, she commanded him as queen. When he refused again, she exiled him from the court. The Prince of Eirias took the known children of the King with him to his lands, earning more of Theodolinde’s rage and opposition.

Fearing the Prince's motives, Theodolinde moved quickly to discredit him.
Castle Certh

**Castle Certh** was a castle in the Principality of Eirias and the traditional powerbase of its Prince. It was situated some miles outside the city of Eirias in the valley beneath the mountain.

The castle was plagued by werewolves at the end of the Second Era until it was eventually overrun. Firestorms destroyed much of the original castle in the early part of the Third Era. For these reasons, the castle was considered to be haunted and was avoided for centuries. Its restoration finally began in the reign of Henri XVII.
Charles, Lord of Coeth

**Charles, Lord of Coeth** was a Breton nobleman. He ruled the mountain of Coeth in fee to the Kings of Arian.

Charles was of exceptional pedigree, belonging to the powerful House of Roye and inheriting the vast political and financial empire carved out by his grandfather and great-grandfather. He was additionally of royal descent as the the son of Emma of Cyfnos. Contrary to the majesty of his ancestors, Charles himself did not amount to much. His rule over Coeth was ineffectual and his management of finances inept. He was no great warrior or commander of men. He did not excel in academic subjects. Charles spent his days hosting poetry recitals and hunts, enjoying the comforts given to him by his ancestors.

The Lord of Coeth came to his title at the age of fifteen following his father's death in battle against the Reachmen of Cragdale. Governance of the mountain remained with his mother until he came of age.

1. ↑ The Lady of Coeth, born 3E 212, who should not be confused with her niece born in 3E 252.
Order of the Black Ermine

The **Order of the Black Ermine** was the knightly order of the Kingdom of Torlan. It was founded by King Elzear I, first ruler from the Clerjus dynasty, shortly after his accession to the throne at the beginning of the Third Era.

Knights of the Black Ermine were appointed by the ruling King or Queen of Torlan, the sovereign of the order. The order was not exclusive to 'true' knights, but also included nobles, ministers and royal favourites.
Alain the Tall (Coeth)

**Alain the Tall, Lord of Coeth** was a Breton nobleman. He ruled the mountain of Coeth in fee to the Kings of Arian.

Through well placed investments and advantageous marriage terms, Alain came to be the richest man in the realm and among the wealthiest men of his era. Alongside his son, Alain the Short, he strengthened the Roye family such that it would one day govern the throne.
Daughters of Galan

The **Daughters of Galan** were Breton principalities associated with the ancient Breton Henri Galan. Those who ruled these lands often made claims of descent from this figure.

Little can truly be said for certain about Henri Galan, a man shrouded in myth and legend. It is quite possible he did not exist at all or that the stories about him are exaggerations. His name and fable were first entered into wide cultural usage by the writer Maurice Traves in his *Quests for All Bretony*. Traves certainly did not, however, invent the man whose story was well-known—even if only locally in these *Daughters of Galan*.

These Daughters of Galan were described by Traves as those principalities inherited by the actual daughters of the legendary Breton. It is said that Henri had many daughters, but no sons, and to each he gave a crown. One daughter took his name (and so the House of Galan continues to exist) while the others adopted new names and created fresh dynasties.

On occasion, these lands were ruled by the same monarch in personal union. This was, for example, the case when Etienne IV and Etienne V ruled the Kingdoms of Taran and Derwen. These personal unions rarely lasted longer than a single generation or two.

Each Daughter of Galan had its own cultural idiosyncrasies, but each also shared in the same legendary origins and so could justifiably be considered similar to each other and distinct from other neighbouring realms. It was commonly held that these lands and their crowns were marked by both *‘boon and bane’*. In the story of Henri Galan, he forged a great and terrible spear, earning for himself great and terrible power. This was done with the aid of one or more Daedric princes, however, and he thereby brought a curse upon himself and his bloodline.

The Daughters of Galan were:

* The Kingdom of Arian
* The Kingdom of Coeth
* The Kingdom of Derwen
* The Kingdom of Eirias
* The Kingdom of Taran
Kintyra of Wayrest

**As consort:**
Princess of Corstir
Duchess of Graif
Duchess of Dirgel
Duchess of Gornest
Lady of Coden
Lady of Dynan
Countess of Hafan
Countess o0f Brith
Countess of Gwer
Countess of Eryr
Countess of Aderyn
Countess of Hebog
Viscountess of Halwyn
Viscountess of Oren
Baroness of Black Oaks

Uriel, Marquess of Caershire

**Kintyra of Wayrest** was a princess belonging to the Septim dynasty.

## **Biography**

### **Early Life**

Kintyra was born in the city of Solitude on 30th Evening Star 3E 248. She was well connected as the daughter of Prince Antiochus Septim, who was the brother of Emperor Cephorus II, and was a descendant of Nordic royalty. Her grandam was Queen Jolethe of Solitude, who was the daughter of Emperor Magnus.

This was a time of great turbulence in the Empire. A year prior to her birth, Uriel IV died. The late Emperor was widely derided as an impostor: the son of Katariah and her consort Gallivere Lariat, with no Septim blood at all. Despite his half-brother Emperor Cassynder adopting him, Uriel faced significant opposition throughout his reign. The Elder Council convened immediately following his death, determined to prevent the throne from passing to his son Andorak.

After some debate and some fighting, a number abandoning the council chambers, those who remained voted unanimously in favour of seating Kintyra’s uncle Cephorus on the throne. Tamriel became divided and many, particularly in High Rock, declared their support for the pretender Andorak whose inheritance was robbed.

For his support in the ensuing civil war, Kintyra’s father was rewarded with the Kingdom of Wayrest. He did not travel to the city until many years later; the young Kintyra, who may have lived out her life as a distant relation of the Emperor, far removed from royalty, was nonetheless now the Emperor’s niece and a titular princess of Wayrest.
Lord Admiral of Glorinel

In the **Archduchy of Glorinel**, the **Lord Admiral** (otherwise the **Admiral**) is the head of the Royal Navy. Though not formally hereditary, the office of Lord Admiral is traditionally tied to the Earldom of [Earldom].

To enter into the royal navy, one must complete training or otherwise be considered appropriate by the Admiral or the Archduke. Responsible for sailing and maintaining the archduke’s ships in times of peace and war, the archducal navy is made up of both merchant and military vessels. The Lord Admiral holds authority over the navy and is granted the right to conscript private ships. He is tasked with overseeing all naval matters and directing the archduke’s ports.

In this secondary role, governance of the archduke’s ports, it is unusual for the Lord Admiral’s duties to overlap with the Lord Treasurer’s. It is generally understood that port affairs belong exclusively to the Lord Admiral, who therefore exacts great influence over the maritime burghers.

Receiving no direct monetary compensation, the Admiral is instead granted sinecures and the right to take fees for port use and docking. He is also permitted to accept payments for naval apprenticeships.

As one of the eight Great Officers of the Realm, the Lord Admiral is granted the right to hold a golden staff as a symbol of his authority.
Imperial Prefect

In the Third Empire, an **Imperial Prefect** was the representative of the Emperor or Provincial Governor with a specific jurisdiction (called a Prefecture). The Prefect was responsible for the imperial bureaucracy within their prefecture, and were charged with upholding imperial law and order. They exercised both civil and military authority. The *de facto* autonomy of local rulers, however, prevented Prefects from exercising the full extent of their mandates. Their activities were generally relegated to recording the census and collecting taxes.
Gautier Offoy

**Gautier Offoy**, sometimes called **Aimery the Third**, was a Breton statesman.

Gautier was a well-connected minister of significant influence in the Kingdom of Arian. In league with his father, who was prime minister to the King, he advanced the interests of the so-called House of Aimery. He was also allied with the Grand Secretary, Pierre of Hallin, whose daughter he married. In his own right, Gautier was the Grandmaster of Laws and by this the seniormost justiciar of the King.

## **Character**

Gautier shared great similarity with his father: he was affable, articulate, and accomplished. Unlike his father, Gautier was not terribly ambitious. It was easy however, a diplomat wrote, for a man blessed with rank and office to be content with his lot: the lawyer rarely *required* ambition.
Grand High Chancellor of Arian

In the Kingdom of Arian, the **Grand High Chancellor** was the highest office in the realm. Its holder was the prime minister of the King and chief over all other ministers of the Court.

The Grand High Chancellor was an evolved position and the product of more than century of regencies beginning with the reign of King Roland I. Historically, there was a Grand Chancellor who held level rank with the Grand Commandant, Grand Sectretary, and Grand Tutor, but who was given powers to act as regent during the minority of a monarch. The first Grand High Chancellor as prime minister was said to be Ernest Roye, who lived during the seventh century Second Era.

The mandate of one Grand High Chancellor to the next, in service to one King to the next, was unique. His exact responsibilites were therefore irregular and changing. The Grand High Chancellor was required to direct and coordinate the Grand Commandant, Grand Sectretary, and Grand Tutor, each of whom he was also tasked with formalising the appointment of.

The Grand High Chancellor was housed lavishly at the expense of the King in the capital and received a small but regular stipend. He was additionally the keeper of several royal properties throughout the Kingdom, entitled to a one-fifth share of their rents and incomes.

### **List of Grand High Chancellors**

* Ernest Roye (2E 623 - 646)
* Richard Roye (2E 650 - 671)
* Denis of Claer (3E 210 - 237)
* Aimery the Elder (3E 237 - 243)
* Aubrey (3E 243 - 248)
* Aimery the Younger (3E 248 - Present)
Lord Marshal of Glorinel

In the **Archduchy of Glorinel**, the **Lord Marshal** (otherwise the **Marshal**) is the head of the Royal Army.

A force of strategists, officers, knights, and common soldiery, the royal army is the personal force of the Archduke. Not unlike those in an Imperial legion, these men belong to a standing force of troops whose dominion is primarily that of war. The Lord Marshal is charged with commanding the archduke’s forces and directing war efforts. Traditionally given the Red Sword in war, the Marshal’s authority over the knights of the realm is understood to be like that of the archduke himself.

In peace, the Lord Marshal is charged with maintaining the archduke’s stables and organising patrols. He is additionally the ex officio Master of Arms, responsible for supervising the College of Arms - a body in Glorinel dedicated to heraldic and genealogical matters.

Though he receives no direct monetary compensation, the Marshal is traditionally granted a number of sinecures. He is furthermore granted the right to take a personal fee from the College of Arms.

As one of the eight Great Officers of the Realm, the Lord Marshal is granted the right to hold a golden staff as a symbol of his authority.
Tynan Revolt

The **Tynan Revolt** was a conflict between rebels on the island of Tyno and the forces of Hegathe. The Revolt ended successfully with the independence of Tyno and the election of Lord Caspian as its King.

The causes of the rebellion were numerous:

* The arraignment, replacement, and later execution of Toussaint, Lord of Tyno
* The excessive taxation on finished goods
* The seizure of properties and wealth
* The impressment of Tynan sailors
* The execution of opponents to the rule of Hegathe
Shining Host

The **Shining Host** were the guards of the royal palace in the Kingdom of Arian, charged with protecting and escorting its inhabitants.

The duty of a guard in the Shining Host was for life. At any one time, there were one hundred members. Each man wore the armour and cloak of a predecessor. Appointment to the Host was considered to be a great honour and was vied for by the noble families of the realm.

The Shining Host was named for the glimmer of the armour worn by its members. Made from mithril, the plates shone blue and silver in the light.
Black Parliament

**Black Parliament** was the name given to a parliament convened in Glorinel, during which the Archduke trapped and imprisoned many of his subjects. The incident took place on 12th Sun’s Dawn, 3E 276.

## **Background**

Louis IX inherited the Archduchy of Glorinel from his father in 3E 274. He already possessed numerous other realms, chiefly the Principality of Corstir, but the Archduchy was understood to be his primary title.

The Archduke’s late father, derided as *The Great Miser*, left him with a significant personal treasury at the expense of the realm itself. The subjects of Glorinel were demonstrably poorer than they had once been. In particular, many among the land’s nobility were destitute and forced to reduce their households. The court of Glorinel was not so majestic as it was in the reign of Eudes III and Elisabeth I.

This poverty turned many against the Archduke. While murmurings of plots against Louis VIII were commonly brought to him, none could reach fruition. His son, however, much realer opposition. Some of the realm’s most powerful noblemen, in fact made stronger by absorbing the wealth and land of others beggared by Louis VIII, began to scheme before the new Archduke was even crowned. Though some among them proposed they prevent the Prince of Corstir’s entry to Glorinel, it was agreed that they would not. Instead, false oaths of fealty were to be made to Louis IX. The lords would repent to the Divines afterwards, but all were committed now to ousting the House of Contoire and restoring a Parce to the archducal throne.

Louis IX entered the city of Glorinel to assume rule in early 3E 275, taking oaths across several months. By this time, frequent messages were sent in secret to the claimant Charles. He was the seniormost scion of the House of Parce and was a descendant of the Archduke overthrown by Eudes III and Elisabeth I. These messages were carried by a knight loyal to the claimant, dressed as a pilgrim. As he resided in the neighbouring Kingdom of Daggerfall, such communications could be made quickly.

### **Gathering at Hafan**

If it was not already a dire mistake to allow Louis IX’s entry into Glorinel unopposed, the scheming lords were soon to commit the first of their major blunders. Most of the lords involved in the plot, who now called themselves *The Lords Patient*, agreed to gather at the castle of Hafan. In the capital, one Archange Thorey, then a Bishop, was made aware of the plot when a cook accused of Daedra worship informed him of things he had overheard following extensive interrogation.

Bishop Thorey at once set about tracking the movements of the Lords Patient. Though he organised a network of agents, Thorey was for years unable to infiltrate the country nobility. He was, he complained, blind beyond the city walls. That he was aware of the plot was enough, however, and though he could not know what was said at Hafan, this private meeting made any criminal intentions public. The Bishop approached the Archduke, who quietly put a handful of knights at his disposal.
Great Council of 3E 236 (Kingdom of Arian)

The **Great Council of 3E 236** was convened in the Kingdom of Arian by King Arthur XII. Its aim was to determine and establish the rules of his succession.

This Great Council was, in fact, the second of its kind during the reign of Arthur XII. The King’s eldest son had died in 3E 229, his second son a year before that. A council determined on the precedence of the assembly called in the reign of King Perceval VIII that the throne would pass to the eldest son of the King’s eldest son—Prince Henri.

This rule held until the death of the Prince in a duel. Once more the problem of succession arose and so once more the King called on his subjects to debate it. Some held that the throne should pass now to the eldest child of the King’s eldest son, the princess Heloise. Others that it should go to the eldest son of the second eldest son, Prince Edward. Others still believed instead that rule should pass to the King’s third son Prince Aymar.

Earlier councils had established the preference of male heirs over female, proving a difficult check against arguments in favour of Princess Heloise. Furthermore, there was precedent for the throne passing to the eldest son of the eldest son—a grandson over a younger son. Questions concerning Prince Edward’s character were also raised.

Ultimately, the Council decided on Prince Edward as heir. A more detailed plan for the future was also agreed upon: in case of Edward’s death, heirship would pass to any sons he would have—otherwise to Aymar and his son and any of his son’s sons—otherwise finally to the King’s nephew Etienne V of Taran and Derwen.

As concession to the twice-rejected Prince Aymar, the King created his son the Duke of Corfan.

When King Arthur XII died in 3E 245, the Great Council’s verdict was kept. Prince Edward succeeded his grandfather.
Arthur V of Arian

**Arthur V**, called **the Old**, was a Second Era king of Arian and its wider dominion as High King over the Spires and Valleys. In the histories of the region, he was recorded as its 94th ruler.

Arthur was the so-called *Starsight Prince*, born to the princess Peronnelle and an unknown father. He was traditionally regarded as the spiritual son of Phynaster and held a station not unlike that of Cyrodiilic demigod hero-kings.

When his grandfather died in 2E 477, Arthur assumed the throne. His reign was exceptionally long, lasting 106 years. During this time, the kingdom both enjoyed stability and suffered from stagnation. There was also a period of diplomatic isolation as a policy of inward perfection emerged.

Arthur lived to the age of 130. He was succeeded by his second great grandson, the infant Roland I.
Chamberlain of Torlan

In the Kingdom of Torlan, the **Chamberlain** (formally the **Lord Chamberlain**) was a high official who managed the king's chamber.

The king's chamber encompassed the monarch's private suite and belongings. During the rule of the Clerjus dynasty, this was contained within Torlan Castle. The chamber was administered separately from the rest of the royal household, which was controlled by the Steward. The Chamberlain supervised the body servants and attendants (including valets and ladies-in-waiting) of the royal family, as well as their clothing and jewellery. The cleanliness and comfort of the royal apartments – in particular the king's bedchamber – was the charge of the Chamberlain.

Significantly, access to the king's chamber was controlled by the Chamberlain. Intimate audiences with the monarch were sought for the royal favour and patronage that they offered. Courtiers therefore ingratiated themselves with the Chamberlain to facilitate such receptions, often with gold and other gifts. The Chamberlain enjoyed the confidence, familiarity and trust of the king, and thus the office was generally held by a royal favourite.
Alberic, Prince of Seren

**Alberic, Prince of Seren** was a Breton prince and nobleman. He inherited the mountain of Seren from his great-grandfather in 3E 287 and ruled in fee to the King of Arian.

Though the lord of Seren, Alberic resided (as many Princes had done) in the capital city of Arian. He was intimately engaged in politics, advancing his family's interests in addition to his own. Alberic's initial opposition to the High Queen Dowager ingratiated him with the High Queen Mother, though this alliance was later broken.
Lord Treasurer of Glorinel

In the **Archduchy of Glorinel**, the **Lord Treasurer** (otherwise the **Treasurer**) is the head of the Royal Treasury - a body responsible for the collection, safekeeping, and distribution of wealth.

Those who belong to the treasury are commonly merchants and landowners with private enterprises. Responsible for creating and capitalising on revenue for the archduke, the treasurers of the realm take part in numerous activities ranging from taxation and licensing to bookkeeping and the drawing up of trade deals. The Lord Treasurer is tasked with overseeing the treasury and its practices, directing and officiating mercantile contracts and tax policies.

Traditionally appointed the Master of Mines and Quarries, the Lord Treasurer is additionally required to direct mining endeavours. In his dual capacity, the Treasurer is responsible for most financial matters in the Archduchy.

While he does not receive direct monetary compensation, the Treasurer is granted the right to exact fees for financial or mercantile matters. He is furthermore granted access to a small share in the realm’s goldmines in his position as Master of Mines and Quarries.

As one of the eight Great Officers of the Realm, the Lord Treasurer is granted the right to hold a golden staff as a symbol of his authority.
Pius Ignatius

**Pius Ignatius** is an Imperial statesman. He is the Imperial Tutor.

## **Summary**

Once a man of average height, age has shortened Pius Ignatius. He looks altogether unthreatening, with hair of pure white and gaunt, pulled skin. His murky eyes reveal his blindness and his staff betrays a lame leg.

Though tutor to the Emperor himself, Ignatius does not share the proud, even immoderate, dress of many of his court colleagues. His adornment is plain and his clothing is simple.

Beneath this humble visage lies a powerful wizard.

[To be finished]

## **Timeline**

**3E 216 — Pius is born on 3rd Sun’s Dusk.**

* He is born under the sign of the Atronach.

**3E 226 — Pius becomes the apprentice of Gaius Victorianus *(aged 10)*.**

* Displaying an aptitude for magic, Pius comes to the attention of the wandering mage Gaius Victorianus.
* Victorianus pays Marcus Ignatius, Pius’ father, a mere thirty septims for his son, taking him on as an apprentice.

**3E 241 — Pius joins the Arcane University *(aged 25)*.**

* He begins a more formal study of magic with his master’s blessing.

**3E 253 — Pius graduates, remaining at the Arcane University *(aged 37)*.**

* He remains at the University, serving as a teacher.

**3E 256 — Pius withdraws from the Arcane University to solitude in the country *(aged 40)*.**

* Following disputes over magical ethics, Pius leaves the Arcane University.

* He wanders briefly before settling in the solitude of the wilderness as a hermit.

**3E 300 — Present day *(aged 84)*.**
Chancellor of Torlan

In the Kingdom of Torlan, the **Chancellor** (formally the **Lord Chancellor**) was a high official and head of the royal chancery.

The clerks of the royal treasury were responsible for transcribing the royal will (generally expressed verbally) into legally sound and binding documents. These often took the form of charters, warrants and writs. Such documents were only authenticated, and therefore legitimate, once the great seal (of which the chancellor was the *ex officio* keeper) was attached. Documents produced by the chancery were subject to fees, as were requests to search its archive (where copies of all its documents were preserved).

All of the king's official correspondence was administered by the chancery. This included diplomatic affairs. Petitions to the crown were examined by a receiver; important or worthy requests and complaints were brought to the the attention of the king or his council by the chancellor. The chancellor was integral to the system of royal patronage and justice. Without the compliance of the chancellor, a new guild could not acquire a charter confirming its privileges, nor could a landowner prove their ancestral rights to a property against the claims of their neighbour, nor could an appellant hope for the king's justice.

The chancery was notoriously slow at processing requests, except those of the king or his council which were always prioritised. A discerning, or simply impatient, supplicant knew that a purse of gold placed in the right hands tended to expedite their case. This, in addition to the ordinary fees charged by the chancery, made the chancellorship a lucrative office.

The King of Torlan could circumvent the chancery (and thus the Chancellor) by issuing documents under the Little Seal, his personal seal otherwise reserved for private correspondence.
Septim (currency)

The **Septim** is the official currency of the Third Empire. It is a small monometallic coin; there is no subunit of the currency.

The Septim is named for the dynasty that has ruled the Empire following Tiber Septim, who is depicted on the coin's obverse. The legend on the obverse side reads: *'THE EMPIRE IS LAW | THE LAW IS SACRED*'. The reverse depicts the imperial dragon emblem flanked by the words: *'PRAISE BE AKATOSH AND ALL THE DIVINES'*.

The weight, size and metal content of the Septim (which has remained unchanged in three centuries) is strictly regulated by Imperial law, obliging uniformity from Tamriel's mints.
Aymar, Third Duke of Corfan

Kingdom of Arian

**Aymar of Corfan** was a Breton nobleman. He inherited the Duchy of Corfan following his father’s death in 3E 265.

Aymar was the third duke of Corfan (and the third of his name), chief among the vassals of the King of Arian. He was a principal figure in the courts of Edward IV and Edward V, holding successively the offices of Lord Marshall and Lord Steward.

In 3E 300, Aymar represented conservative interests. He sought to uphold the traditional rights and boons enjoyed by feudal lords, advancing where he could his noble colleagues. This brought him into regular conflict with the Queen (later Queen Mother) and her so-called *Roye Faction*.

## **Family**

Aymar was the son of the Second Duke of Corfan, who in turn was the son of the First Duke of Corfan. Each shared the same name.

The Duke’s grandfather was twice-denied the throne of Arias in councils convened by King Arthur XII. The Duchy of Corfan was created then, in 3E 236, as a concession and protection against pretence to the throne. Aymar was a second cousin to King Edward IV, then the same once-removed to Edward V.
Colart V of Hedera

**Colart V** is the ruling King of Hedera, ascending to the throne at the age of 8 in 3E 232. He is also the nominal dynastic head of the House of Hedera.

## **Summary**

A child ascending to the throne following the untimely death of his father, Colart V's early reign was dominated by a succession of regents and courtiers. This nascent (and unavoidable) dependence on others would change little during his subsequent long reign; the amiable and trusting king consigning the domestic affairs of his realm to both well and ill-intentioned ministers.

As patriarch of the prestigious House of Hedera, however, Colart is far more involved and effectual. With unparalleled knowledge of High Rock's intricate marriage market, Colart has secured countless advantageous marriages for his relatives. Perhaps unintentionally, these efforts have shaped the political landscape of the province, placing the kingdom of Hedera at the heart of a familial coterie.
High Rock

**High Rock**, officially called the **Imperial Province of High Rock** was a province of the Third Empire, in the northwest of the continent. It was the homeland of the Bretons.

## **Laws and Customs**

Nominally, the imperial laws of the Third Empire were obeyed throughout High Rock. In reality, each principality maintained its own laws; what was licit in one kingdom could have incurred the death sentence in another. The conventional (or unimaginative) Bretons nevertheless observed ubiquitous and time-hallowed traditions and customs – a uniformity also evident in their fashion, architecture and religion – which influenced law and order in the province.

### **Gender and Succession**

The women of High Rock faced a degree of discrimination. Although travellers from Cyrodiil were impressed by the multitude of female knights (dames) in the province, Breton men enjoyed greater advantages than women. Dowries were paid by a bride or a bride's family to a husband, whilst bride price was only paid in extraordinary circumstances. Whilst a woman who ruled or owned land *suo jure* could have expected to continue ruling in her own right, there were precedents of husbands taking possession of their wives' property *jure uxoris*.

The Bretons of High Rock regarded dynasties as agnatic, although there are a few examples of a mother passing her dynastic name onto her children. This resulted in succession laws and customs favouring males; an heir apparent tended to be a ruler's firstborn son rather than firstborn child. Female succession usually occurred when a ruler only produced daughters. As a consequence, female rulers were rarer than males.

Primogeniture – the succession of one heir to the entire inheritance – was common in High Rock. A ruler was expected to grant appanages (lands and titles) to younger sons who would otherwise inherit nothing.

## **Realms**

Politically, High Rock was a convoluted patchwork of fiefdoms categorised as kingdoms, principalities, duchies, marquisates, counties, viscounties and baronies. Although this delineates the order of precedence, this did not *necessarily* reflect the province's hierarchy; a kingdom and a barony might have both enjoyed imperial immediacy, whereby fealty was owed exclusively to the Emperor.

Higher-ranking realms may, however, subinfeudate lower-ranking fiefdoms within their dominion. A prince can be the vassal of a king, a duke can be the vassal of a prince, and so on.

Here follows a list of High Rock fiefdoms with imperial immediacy:

#### **Duchies**

1. ↑ In these cases, the mother (or mother's family) tended to outrank the father (or father's family).
School of Arcanos

The **School of Arcanos** was an institution dedicated to the procurement, study, and development of magic.

The School shared its name with the island of Arcanos, central to the Trident Archipelago. It emerged some time during or after the reign of the Galan Knight and was established by an unnamed wizard and his eight disciples.

Members of the School were as a rule utterly removed from worldly affairs and happenings. The School expected its members to dedicate themselves completely to the arts of magic and the procurement of knowledge. As such, it stood in stark contrast to the Mages Guild (which was present in the Trident Archipelago) as an uninvolved and apolitical body.

Mages at Arcanos were drawn almost exclusively from those of the very highest calibre, enthusiasm, and natural ability, from whom exclusive dedication to magic could be expected. The School was a small but exceptional body open to those of all backgrounds.

The School of Arcanos, as well as its home island, was governed by a council of wizards called the Magisterium.

1. ↑ Social rank outside the School of Arcanos was rarely (if ever) considered in one's bid to join it.
Constans Lorderas

Third Empire

**Constans Lorderas** is an Imperial banker. He is the head of the Lorderas Bank, a role he unofficially assumed in 3E 283 and formally inherited from his father in 3E 288.

## **Timeline**

**3E 240 — Constans is born on 27th First Seed.**

* He is born at Cornelius Hall under the sign of the Serpent.

**3E 260 — Constans matriculates to the Imperial University *(aged 20)*.**

* He joins the university enjoying the financial support of his father, studying a range of subjects.

**3E 272 — Constans graduates from the Imperial University *(aged 32)*.**

* He soon takes on a full and active role in the Lorderas Bank, travelling to Wayrest to secure and oversee investment deals with the merchants of the city.

**3E 275 — Constans returns to the Imperial City *(aged 35)*.**

**3E 283 — Constans assumes control of the Lorderas Bank *(aged 43)*.**

* His father’s ailing health leads to an unofficial abdication of control. The transfer of leadership is not unprecedented in the Bank’s history.

**3E 288 — Constans inherits ownership of the Lorderas Bank *(aged 48)*.**

* With his father’s death, he formally inherits the Bank. A statue of his father is erected in the square of Cornelius Hall, standing beside the statue of Constans’ great-grandfather.

**3E 297 — Constans supports the appointment of Roger Vaux to the Elder Council *(aged 57)*.**
Heath Voicelines

**Login Screen**★

**Home Screen**★

**Regular Gift Response**★

**Local Ranking**★

**Performance** ★

**Curtain Call (1st Place Only)**★

**Rehearsal** ★

**Note:** There's still many lines to be added. If you know a line that's not on this page (Japanese and/or English), please feel free to add it yourself or mention it in the comments below and someone will get to it.
County of Ynys

The **County of Ynys** was a fiefdom of the Kingdom of Torlan.

It ruled over the river island of Ynys in the Cygnus River, which was subjugated by Torlan during the Second Era. The Counts and Countesses of Ynys subsequently ruled the island as vassals.

Glanfa Abbey was located on the island. Besides salmon fishing, the prosperity of Ynys was owed to the monastery. Much of the population made a living from supplying the monks and offering hospitality to pilgrims.

Besides the abbey, the only significant settlement on the island is the town of Pilgrim's Rest.