Ivalice

House of Shields

Imperial High

Aeadrain

Rominian(Uncommon)

Arachdra(Uncommon)

Weldra(Uncommon)

Laetannian(Rare)

Eeldra(Extremely rare)

Out from within the realm of Thrymir, a region of dying and decaying Human empires, The mysterious and mystic Kingdom of Ivalice remains the only power within Thrymir that continues to progress and advance in society and technology while the rest of the Human Empire's follow what remains of the Thrymir Empire. Second only in power to the Thrymir Empire, Ivalice is widely known throughout the world for being one of the most diverse places of the planet, making Ivalice comprised of most Athrunial's sentient races within their land.This is due to Ivalice's policy of welcoming everyone, regardless of race into their borders without racial prejudice or xenophobia while offering opportunities to advance forward in life. As a result of this, Ivalice is often considered a mystical and bizarre place by many whom visit Ivalice, witnessing all the races of Athrunial work together for the greater good of Ivalice and her people without racial prejudice or xenophobia. With such unification and dedication of it's people, Ivalice's people enjoy a high state of living and as long as it's citizens contribute to society in some manner albeit not nearly as high as the people of Laetannia or Ahisia.

## History

* 5E 510 - Yumutou Kurama, Imperial General of Ivalice has Ivalice secede from the Thrymir Empire remnents
* 5E 510 - Only weeks after declaring independence, The Thrymir Empire Remnants send a military force to bring Ivalice back into the fold
* 5E 515 - Ivalice's war of independence ends with the Thrymir Empire Remnants defeated by Yumutou Kurama
* 5E 516 - Yumutou Kurama is crowned the first Archduke of Ivalice
* 5E 559 - Ingros is founded
* 5E 571 - Archduke Yumutou Kurama dies of old age, his son, Mausima Kurama is crowned Archduke
* 5E 575 - Archduke, Mausima Kurama declares the Bal Crusade into northern Ivalice to destroy the Rominian tribes
* 5E 590 - After the fighting crosses into the territory of the Celestine Empire, the Eeldra Divine Being, Celestine intervenes in the conflict, transporting the remaining tribes to the Kraymvirk Wastes, ending the Bal Crusade
* 5E 650 - The Cavalier War begins when peace talks between Ivalice and Alcberde break down
* 5E 690 - Both King Aeros Tenith of Alcberde and Archduke, Mausima Kurama die during their famous Jue Shi after both inflict fatal wounds each other during their clash at Hiro Valley, thus ending the war.
* 5E 691 - Mausima Kurama's granddaughter, Izumi Kurama is crowned Archduchess of Ivalice
* 5E 695 - Ivalice and Alcberde enter a permanent alliance after the Archduchess, Izumi Kurama married King Aeros Tenith's grandson, Lefran.
* 5E 710 - Athelney is founded
* 5E 725 - Elisinda is rebuilt
* 5E 759 - Gilramore is founded by Count Siraf of Ingros
* 5E 786 - Archduchess, Izumi Kurama dies, her son Minamoto Kurama is crowned Archduke
* 5E 824 - Penkurth and Alverton are founded
* 5E 855 - The War of the Dukes break out when Archduke Minamoto Kurama is assassinated with evidence that one of the Dukes of Ivalice, Lucianus Fournier of Athelney and Susanne Hilda of Ingros ordered the assassination
* 5E 910 - Alchberde intervenes in the civil war when disease and starvation nearly destroys Ivalice, thus ending Ivalice's dark ages
* 5E 911 - Hosokawa Kurama is crowned Archduchess of Ivalice
* 5E 1160 - Archduchess Hosokawa Kurama dies, her great grandson Katsou Kurama is crowned Archduke
* 5E 1180 - The Night of Tears event occurs when the ancient yet extremely powerful deadra, Vosarath through unknown means is able to escape it's vassel and unleash chaos on Ivalice. Within one night, the capital city is heavily damaged, Archduke Katsou Kurama and the majority of the Adeptus Knights are killed in battle defending the city. House Kurama's servant, Arisu Rihomi, an elder Celestial Jingsune is able to seal away Vosarath into the Archduke's son, Seto Kurama before dying of her wounds.
* 5E 1181 - civil disorder and chaos continues within Ivalice without House Kurama
* 5E 1183 - Imperial Warlord, Marcanius Arak seizes power in Ivalice and proclaims herself King of Ivalice, civil disorder continues with the majority of people not recognizing the King as their sovereign
* 5E 1190 - The Jue Shi of Unmei occurs, Seto Kurama returns from his exile and challenges Marcanius Arak to a Jue Shi over the right to rule Ivalice. Faced with no choice, Marcanius Arak accepts the challenge. The result is a relentless day long duel between two powerful warriors with nearly half of the capital destroyed before the Jue Shi ends. Seto Kurama wins the Jue Shi but is unable to execute Marcanius Arak whom is able to flee. Seto Kurama is crowned Archduke soon after his fateful duel.

###

## Geography

With Ivalice being located in the northern most part of the Thrymir region and yet despite it's small size, at least compared to the Thrymir Empire to the south or the Celestine Empire to the north to whom it borders, Ivalice is more diverse than most of the Thrymir Kingdoms, Due to it's position, Ivalice's land is about seventy percent comprised of heavy forests with twenty percent of it's land comprising of deep jungles with the last ten percent comprised of grasslands and plains. To it's east is the Aklator mountain wastelands.

## Locations

**Ivalice -** The city the country is named after, Ivalice is the political and cultural capital of Ivalice and is the seat of the Archduke whom rules over all of Ivalice. It is also the home of the Ebony Matrons whom live in Kurama Fortress as well as the House of Crowns and House of Shields whom live and meet within the city to conduct their business. Ivalice is also the headquarters of the Celestial Knights, the Death Corps and the Adventurer's Guild.

**Ingros -** Nicknamed the **"City of Knights"** due to the sheer amounts of Knights found within the city, Ingros is ruled by the Duchess, Velessia Rayvennia and is amongst the second largest city after the capital and is home to the Heavenly Retributors and the Rayvennia Knights as well as the Adeptus Knight's main academy for new trainee's. Ingros is located in the central point of southern Ivalice.

**Athelney -**  Known as the **"City of Shi"** due to Athelney being the most common location for Jue Shi's and is known for housing the largest Jue Shi dueling Arena within Ivalice, Athelney is the third largest city of Ivalice that is ruled by the Rominian Duke, Sigvard Draco and is the headquarters of the Knight's Council and the military of Ivalice. Athelney is located in northern Ivalice that borders both of Ivalice's jungles and forests.

**Dawngrave -** A small Town north of Ivalice known heavily for it's tourism thanks in large part to Dawngrave functioning as a resort and as a location of interest as well as housing many from Maja. Dawngrave is a heavily inspired Maja town with it's Maja architecture and customs. Dawngrave was built and is currently owned by the Archduke whom uses the town as his personal resort along with the Lioness although it is not uncommon for the rest of the Kurama family to reside there.

**Penkurth -** A small city ruled by Count Gerlach Lichter, it is located near the the borders of Ivalice that borders the Celestine Empire and is located within Ivalice's thick and dangerous jungles.

**Alverton -** A small city ruled by Count Mandred Knecht, located in the north western parts of Ivalice's grasslands, Alverton is one of Ivalice's primary food sources.

**Elisinda -** Known as the **"Holy City of Saints"**, Elisinda is a small city located in southern Ivalice ruled by the High Priestess of Saints, Maghilda Elsina whom watches over the Cathedral of Saints where Ivalice's saints, are laid to rest after their death although other saints have chosen to be buried below a shrine dedicated to them, these shrines are protect and maintained by Priestesses. Elisinda is a popular tourist location for outsiders and is considered a holy city by those living in Ivalice whom consider it an honour as well as their duty to journey to the city and pay their respect to the dead at least once in their life time.

**Gilramore -** Known as the **"City of Hammer and Tongs",** Gilramore is A small city located near the border in southern Ivalice that is ruled by Dwarf Count Thyrus Seimger. Gilramore is a city that focuses on the production of lumber, wooden blanks and other wooden materials as well as the production of smelting common metal items.

**Heavens Gate -** A massive fortress to the east of Ivalice, located near the base of the Aklator mountain wastes, Heavens Gate was designed, built and manned by the Adeptus Knights to hold off or stall and Vyreadra invasion of Ivalice.

**Wind Gate Keep -** A heavily fortified Citadel located on the western borders of Ivalice to protect Ivalice from any threat coming from the west

**Iredale Keeps** - A series of small Keeps located on the southern border of Ivalice to protect the border. Connected by a large wall that extends Ivalice's entire southern border, The Iredale Keeps take the appearance of a large, thick wall. To gain entrance into Ivalice by the south, must enter through many of it's checkpoint gateway's.

**Dhushnord -** A large ebony fortress located on the borders of Ivalice that shares it's borders with the Celestine Empire, Dhushnord is considered the harshest place within Ivalice to be as the fortress is responsible for holding off any invasion force sent by the Celestine Empire however what is the most dangerous is the constant siege of the fortress by countless Greenskin and Pigmen hordes. As a result, thousands of Adeptus Knights are deployed there and it is here where hundreds die every year from the constant warfare.

## Government and politics

In a nutshell, the government of Ivalice is an interlocking feudal state Aristocratic Empire guided by a Enlighten monarch, the Archduke of Ivalice whom instills their knowledge and wisdom to their select chosen of the Knights Council and the Ebony Matrons who perform the day to day activities of Ivalice and although the Archduke can can be seen as a figurehead of Ivalice, the Archduke does have absolute power over Ivalice including authority and administrator power, allowing them to do what they see fit however If one is not worthy of the throne, it is the responsibility of the of the Ebony Matrons and the Knights Council  to dispose such filth from the throne until a new Archduke can be chosen.

Below the Archduke of Ivalice is the Knights Council and the Ebony Matrons whom is the second most powerful governing body within Ivalice.

The **"Ebony Matrons"** is a new council that was formed by the **"Ebony Duke"** whom have been tasked to running the day to day activities of Ivalice such as inacting policies, laws and budgets as well as handling any civil disorder and handling any civil cases in court. The Ebony Matrons are comprised almost entirely by the Duke's wives although this isn't entirely true, dinguisted men and women can ascend to the Ebony Matrons although this is incrediably rare and is considered a special honour.

Alongisde the Ebony Matrons in power, The **"Knights Council"**is a military council comprised entirely of Ivalice's most skilled knights, commanders and generals whom are tasked by the Archduke in preserving Ivalice's peace and secruity by any means, handling all military operations, it's maintenenace as well as it's recruitment. Working in conjunction with the Ebony Matrons, the Knight Council will help keep civil disorder down when needed. Although the Ebony Matrons handle most Judicial duties, the Knights Council has sanction over all civil cases that regards the military and is allowed to take the case into it's own hands without question. The Knights Council can aid the Ebony Matrons with legislative duties and decisions although this quite rare due to the council seeing each other as rivals within Ivalice.

Below the Ebony Matrons and the Knights Council is the "**House of Crowns"** which is a senate that comprises entirely of Ivalice's nobility that represents their ideals and desired polices along with the "**House of Shields"** and much like like the House of Crowns, is a senate that comprises entirely of common citizens that represents the ideals and polices for the common people. Both Houses have the power to propose new legislative laws and policies for Ivalice to adopt however both Houses must agree on the law or policy before it can be sent to either the Ebony Matrons if it's civil or the Knights Council if it's militarial in nature.Both House's have their members voted in by the commoners for the House of Shield while the nobles are voted in for the House of Crowns. Every town, city or region within Ivalice can elect a member for each House and can only have one. For both houses, their is no set limit on how long a member can serve for in their respective house although they can be removed or voted out by those whom voted them in or outright removed from power if they did something wrong significantly.

After the four councils of power would be the Lords and Ladies in power, those whom own signicant amount of land and wealth whom are usually part of the higher nobility. These nobles can have their own local law and policies which is law until/unless it conflicts with a national law or policy. Lower nobility consists of usually Knights whom are usually of noble birth, are professional, elite soldiers serving Ivalice and usually have little power. Only the most experienced and loyal Knights of Ivalice are given positions of power. Citizens whom have significant amount of wealth may be of lower nobility as well.

At the bottom of the list is the Oproda, children of nobles who hold no power whatsoever, most Oproda's are highly encouraged to make their own place in the world than relying on their name to take them places.

### **Noble Ranks**

**Archduke -** Always held by the leading member of House Kurama, They have the wisdom and knowledge to steer Ivalice true, as a result they have absolute power over all Ivalice. Current positions is held by Seto Kurama, the **"Ebony Duke",**

**Celestial Lioness -** A gateway rank between the ruler and the ruling council, has absolute power in the absence or death of the Archduke. Current position is held by the **"Lioness of Ivalice."**

**Celestial Knight -** The finest warriors of Ivalice, they are the most honored, skilled and renown knights within Ivalice during their time. As a Celestial Knight, they are the personal Knights of the Archduke, as a result, they only take orders directly from them and them alone which allows them to operate freely as they seek fit. Though a Celestial Knight may go where they are needed being warriors first, they may be selected to act as bodyguards, Generals, tacticians, diplomats etc but this is often rare since must choose to be Vanguards of a force. As a Celestial Knight, they have rights to their own personal military unit and governance of a piece of land If desired, what they do with it, is up to them to an extent. To become a Celestial Knight, must have exceptional combat abilities, leadership and any other desired qualities by the Archduke. There is no set number of Celestial Knights that the Archduke can have however most times, it is less than usually a dozen or so with the the most Ivalice has ever had was 20. The lower ranked a Celestial Knight is within the Celestial Knights , the more skill and cunning they possess so the first Celestial Knights outranks the 5th Celestial Knight and therefore can take commands from them. A Celestial Knight of any rank may attain a lower rank within the Celestial Knights by challenging the next lower ranked knight to a tourney, often to the death but not necessary. Celestial Knights are heavily frowned upon killing unarmed or by "secretive ways" or else they will be declared a Seigmeur and will never be able to hold the title again within the Celestial Knights. The duel must be fought on equal ground in the open, thus giving both a fair and equal duel or else it is considered not valid. Celestial Knights hold there title until they die although can be stripped away by the Archduke although this is a rare occurrence.

**Arisu -** Is a title given to the wives of the Archduke's royal family whom are part of the Ebony Matrons that help run Ivalice. Besides the ranks above this rank, they have absolute power over lower ranks nobles and citizens and cannot be ignored or ordered under most circumstances.

**Duke** - The highest ranking normal rank a noble or citizen could attain, Dukes often control a massive city or mass amounts of land.

**Grand Knight** - Few in numbers, Grand Knights are usually the Grandmasters of entire Knightly Orders with decades of experience and built up skill, they in a sense control their own military sub-faction, taking orders from no one besides Dukes and higher ranked nobles If they are in their region. Grand Knights are often not in charge of land however IF they deem it necessary, they may remove any noble besides a Duke and Arisu from office and take temporary control until what is decided next.

**Count** - controls a city

**Knight Dominion** - Veteran and experienced Knights who hold senior positions within their unit or the Knightly Order they serve, comprised usually of Knight Commanders, a Knight Dominion may be left in charge of a county, region or even a City if deemed necessary by their order If no noble is present or may be given command by a noble of the land.

**Baron** - controls a small county or town

**Patrician** - nobles that may hold a small plot of land

**Knight** - Standard professional, elite soliders who are often from noble families. While Knights serve in the military as knights, they hold no power usually

**Squire** - soldiers being trained to become knights, no power

**Seigmeur** - exiled nobles with no power, most are exiled knights

**Noble Oproda** - children/offspring of nobles, they hold no power or wealth

## Economy

The economy of Ivalice is best defined by it's location with Ivalice having many unique's wildlife such as the Ravatar, ferocious two legged carnivore along with it's wide array of fruits such as Coffea and Cocoa which can harvested and used in the creation of rare commodities such as chocolate and coffee. As a result of this, Ivalice's economy is based on exporting rare, fruit to the rest of Thrymir as well as the creation, production exportation of high quality chocolate and coffee. Ivalice is also famous for the creation and limited exportation of the highly controversial drug, Salem Sap which temporarily greatly increases all their senses and sensitivity as well as their libido to infallible heights to whomever drinks it. Ivalice's other rare yet limited exports are captured and trained Ravatar's which are extremely prized war mounts in other kingdoms and Arachdra silk which is notable for being much, much more stronger than regular silk and is a material that can be used in the creation of armor.

## Education

Due to the people of Ivalice having to pay taxes every year, education is made free and while it is not mandatory to receive a education, it is highly encouraged for a Juvenile to learn a craft so they can better tribute to Ivalice's future and enjoy a higher state of living.

It is common for young children between the ages of five to ten years of age to be sent by their parents to a **"General School"** for nearly five years where they learn how to properly speak Imperial Standard, learn how to read and write and basic mathematics. After the age of ten or after one graduates from their General School, one is given a few selective choices on what education they would like.

**Elevated School** - nicknamed **"Nobility Schooling",** it is essentially an advanced General School for teenagers but commoners learn High Imperial, proper social behavior and conduct as well as advanced mathematics's.

**Military Academy** - Self explanatory, those whom wish to serve in Ivalice's regular military forces must enlist in the academy, there is no age restriction. A student at a Military Academy will learn how to create and maintain their weapons, how to fight alone and in formations as well as drill and other militarism duties. A student may spend as long as they wish in the Academy to further their abilities as long as they show steady improvement although a single class will one year in training before graduating.

**Oracle Academy** - One whom enters the Oracle Academy will learn social sciences, history, logic, physics, Analysis, systems of equations, calculus, geometry, Algebra as well other advanced studies. Education can last anywhere from five to ten years and those whom graduate often become philosophers, alchemists, historians, scientists,mathematicians, physicists, engineers, inventors, astronomers etc however due to the intensity of the studies, graduation rate is low.

**Domestic School** - Although not considered to be highly popular by outsiders, those whom attend a Domestic School are taught domestic duties such as cultivation or farming, herding and the breeding of domesticated animals as well of hunting and basic taming of wild creatures. As with the Military Academy, their is no set period of time a person can be in the school as long as they show steady improvement. People graduate depending on their skills, as a result there is no class per say.

**Craftsmanship Academy** - Self Explanatory, whose whom wish to become true smiths, Artisans and crafters of fabric for this school where they will learn all the necessary skills needed to attain the job they wish. When one enters, they will enter an apprenticeship under a significant more trained student whom will apprenticed under a master crafter whom will teach the eldest student whom then it will be their responsibility to teach their new apprentice. This is done in the hopes that when those whom graduate, they be able to teach those they take under their wing, their craft. Their is no set date of graduation, an apprentice may spend a number of years until the master crafter decides they are skilled enough to become a journeyman. Once the senior apprentice graduates, the younger apprentice will take their place and learn directly from the master crafter until they are ready as well with the senior apprentice taking a apprentice as well.

**College of Bards** - Despite the misleading name, those whom wish to become artists, actors, singers and musicians besides poets may enter the college of Bards. There, they will learn their craft to near perfection before graduating,

**The Adeptus Knights** - Nicknamed commonly as the **"Knights Academy",**It is the only advanced educational school within Ivalice that requires the applicant to have already graduated from Elevated School and the Military Academy to even quality and the Adeptus Knights have the right to deny anyone they seek fit. Besides being a noble, this is the only way for a commoner to become a Knight. If a applicant is accepted into the Adeptus Knights, they are initated in as Neophytes where they will learn military history and strategy, proper nobility etiquette for Knights as well as a Knight's traditions and character from whom they are taught. a Neophytes is taught the meaning of honour and the Code of Chivalry which is the following,

* To fear the Divine Beings and show respect
* To serve Ivalice with valour and honor
* To protect Ivalice's weak and defenceless
* To give aid to widows and orphans
* To refrain from lowering oneself by offending those lower or higher in power then your own
* To live by your honour, valour and service to Ivalice
* To deny any material rewards for selfishness actions
* To fight for the sake of all
* To obey the Archduke, the Arisu and of House Kurama
* To guard the honour of one self and others such as yourself
* To be against unfairness, deceit and betrayal
* To keep one's honour
* At all times to speak the truth
* To respect the honour of women, especially the Lioness
* Never to refuse a challenge from an equal
* Never to turn the back upon a foe

and If one cannot take it into their very body quickly, they will be Immediately exiled from the Adeptus Knights. Once they are trained mentally, Neophytes will be trained in one on one combat for dueling and fencing than lance on horseback. Once they complete this stage which could take anywhere from a year to half a decade, they will be promoted from Neophyte to Squire, there they will spend anywhere from four to ten years under the direct tulege under a Knight or possibly a Knight Dominion where they will travel with their mentor everywhere they go and while on this journey, their mentor will verse them in every conceivable aspect of warfare for knight. This can alter greatly depending on the Knight, some squires may have their training focused on lance upon horseback while some may focus on melee combat or proper governance and etiquette. Once their mentor feels they are ready for knighthood, the squire can be knighted at any time as long as it is witnessed by a noble in power. Once this occurs, the newly appointed Knight may offer his services to any noble he desires .

## Society and culture

Ivalice is similar to other medieval societies however Ivalice has always had a major emphasize on serving the enlighten monarch, the Archduke of the Kurama noble family, military service to protect Ivalice and honoring the most worthy of the dead as Saints, to be venerated for their past deeds in life. The people of Ivalice live in a feudalism caste system where the commoners live on the land of nobles whom in return for their protection, works the land and serves their lord's court through diplomatic means or serving in their lord's military. It should be noted that despite the class system, people of all classes are treated nearly equally and is easy for those whom wish to their mark in the world to advance in the class system if they put in significant effort. Any racial prejudice or xenophobia found is not tolerated and if their is a issue, it is quickly dealt with to prevent any civil disorder.

### **Classes of Society**

* **Commoners** - comprising usually of farmers,laborers,servants, children and the elderly whom possessed no true talents
* **Merchant** - Obviously comprising of those whom trade through some means whether trading resources or operating a storefront
* **Craftsmen** - Anyone whom are crafters of fabric and magic items as well as blacksmithing to engineers belong in this class.
* **Lower nobility** - those whom have power and/or influence over an area or those whom are wealthly are often in the same class. The children of nobles, no matter whether lower or higher nobility are within this class besides the Archduke's children.
* **Warriors** - Military service is considered very important for the people of Ivalice due to the protection of their freedom to do anything they please in Ivalice as well as protection from racial prejudice from other countries and if Ivalice was ever invaded, all those whom have served before, can and will be reenlisted to serve and protect until the threat is over. As such, the soldiers in the military are highly respected and paid well for their services, especially those whom make it their life long career.
* **Knights** - Within Ivalice society, it is considered the greatest honour to have a son, daughter, mother or father to serve Ivalice as a Knight of Ivalice. Warriors of the highest skill and devotion to Ivalice, Knights are known for their faithful and extensive duty to protect Ivalice from the greatest of dangers.
* **Higher Nobility** - While the true nobles of Ivalice are not respect no way near the Knights of Ivalice more often than not, they control vast amounts of lands and influence within Ivalice society and cannot be ignored. It should also be noted that the Archduke's family is in this class for anyone whom does not hold any power in the government or military.
* **Arisen** - Comprising of the Ebony Matrons, the Knights Council, the Celestial Knights and others hand picked by the Archduke to serve him directly or chosen by him to perform the most important of duties.
* **Enlighten** - The Archduke is the true and absolute leader whom is considered to have the ruling qualifications and knowledge to lead Ivalice fairly and justly. This has always been held by the Kurama noble family
* **Shinsei** - Above the Archduke are the Priestesses of Ivalice whom maintains and leads the people in all their spiritual needs when it comes to the Saints of Ivalice
* **Saints** - Even above the Archduke and the Priestesses of Ivalice is the Saints of Ivalice whom were heroes in life and in death, they are the most revered and respected above all else for their honorable and good deeds such as Saint Arisu whom sacrificed herself to save Ivalice to stop an ancient and massively powerful deadra from destroying IValice in a single night. Anyone of any race can become a saint and the only requirements to become a saint is to go beyond the call of duty and perform a great deed to protect Ivalice but only out of selfishness. While the Archduke is capable of declaring anyone a Saint, the councils of governments can agree to make a person a Saint as well.

### **Family life and Houses**

A great emphasize was put on the people of Ivalice by the first Archduke, regardless of class to highly value ties between family members and close friends. This carried over into day with the countless houses of all classes weaving tightly knit households and relations with friendly households. When the Archduke, Seto Kurama came into power, he greatly emphasized to his people to have the children find their own way into the world without using the power or name of their family life he had to when his father was killed when he was just a child. As a result, it is highly frowned upon for the children to use their parents influence and wealth to recieve positions they do not deserve. It is usually acceptable for a child to inherit and follow in the footsteps of a parent in running a family business or taking up the same profession as their parents as long as they worked for it themselves. For those whom cheat, this is considered a great dishonor and most whom cheat are often sent to the Death Korps to repent for bring shame and dishonor to themselves, their family and their family's reputation.

Within Ivalice, most societies were divided up into many Houses or households whom are built up by family ties and alliances. These houses or households are usually led by the hereditary dominant male whom descend directly from the house founder although it is common for the house matriarch to be the ruler of the house instead, some houses choose to a council or some other method of leading the house. Although it is acceptable for one to live by themselves or with non family members if the situation demands it, there has always been emphasis in living within their household due to there being an emphasis on house mates valuing locality to the house and it's leader. Unlike other societies, it is forbidden for households to inbreeding and often emphasis to marry into a friendly house or simply someone whom isn't blood related.

All houses or households specialize often specialize in one field, such as being a house of warriors or blacksmiths although it is common as well for a house to be diverse, especially those of the noble classes. Knight Houses are rare due to the requirements for becoming Knights but they do exist. albeit in small numbers. It is common for households to send their youth to other friendly houses or ones with alliances as apprentices to learn a new trade.

### **One's Honour and Family Honour**

Within Ivalice, One's honour as well their house's honour are important and are highly encouraged by their house and themselves to never damage their own honour or their family's. For one whom is considered without honour is either dead as far as society is concerned or is considered trash whom cannot be trusted. It has always been encouraged to allow anyone to do anything they wish as long as they wouldn't bring dishonour to themselves or their family. Depending on the action, one is easily capable of regaining their honour but as the worse the action gets, the harder it will become to regain their honour to the point one can only regain their honour through death through performing a honorable deed.

### **Jue Shi**

Often called as **"Jue Shi Kai"** and as **"Shi Kai"**, it is a term given to an ancient traditional honour duel that has it's lineage traced back to the original Thrymir Empire whom gained it from Maja and Chou. It is a honour duel for one's honour or one's family and is usually a duel to the death but not always. Jue Shi's can also be used to decide important disputes between houses, nobles or warriors although this rare as well due to the fact a Jue Shi is a grave matter. Although Jue Shi's are rare in Ivalice society, When one issues a Jue Shi to another after being dishonoured or their family has been dishonoured, the other person cannot refuse the Jue Shi or they will lose their honour. Those whom win a Jue Shi may grant mercy or kill their opponent however no matter what choice they will make, they will regain their honour back. When a Jue Shi comes from one dishonoured house to another house, both may pick their combatants although it's usually encouraged for the rulers to participate in the Jue Shi instead. When a Jue Shi is to occur, both combatants will meet in a open area or a dueling arena that is fair to both parties.

## Religion

Within the realm of Ivalice, it's people are freely allowed to worship any god or pantheon of gods as long as the people contribute society through some manner although religion on it's itself is quite rare as most of Ivalice's population choose to venerate the most honoured people of Ivalice whom has passed on. The ones whom are the most honoured are coronated as Saints and are given a special place within Ivalice society. To most citizens of Ivalice, a Saint is the closest thing to a god in Ivalice however they are not worshiped as one since they know they were not gods. Still in the end, it doesn't matter, these selfishness men and women deserve to be venerated for their deeds and are used as an example for the next generation. As a result, to those outside of Ivalice, to insult a Saint in Ivalice is considered a grave offense and often leads to punishment, usually death or exile from Ivalice.

Because of this unique religion inspired by Maja's(Shinto) and Thrymir's(Calthoicism) religion, Ivalice's religion has a few components from each religion due to Ivalice's mixed culture and traditions from that of Thrymir and Maja. The religion within Ivalice holds many cathedrals and churches similar to that found in Thrymir and Laetannia where prayer and masses dedicated to venerating the dead take place. In more rural area's or places that are deemed sacred to a specific saint, a shrine will be built, the size can vary from a single main hall to a large, multi floor, building with multiple buildings near by, sporting other facilities. Those whom inhabit these religious buildings are the Priestesses of Ivalice. These Priestesses are the young women whom have dedicated their lives to the Saints, sacrificing a free life of pleasure and materialistic gain in exchange for protecting the sacred places of such Saints and to help guide those down the right path through understanding of the Saints.

They are the ones whom are the spiritual leaders of Ivalice, leading ordinary folks through prayer, masses and rituals dedicated to the Ivalice Saints. These Priestesses are similar to Thrymirian Nuns and those of Laetannia, taking vows of Chasity and silence, forbidding them from ever having romantic relations or sexual intercourse and the fact they live in complete isolation within their churches and cathedrals, only interacting with the outside world indirectly during prayer, masses and rituals. These Priestesses are called a **"Enclosed Priestess"** whom are known to wear their former religious habit that is similar to religious habit to that of a Thrymirian nun and and Maja Priestess. These are not the only Priestesses of Ivalice, rather the most notorious and most well known are the **"Shrine Priestesses"**, those whom have decided to live and maintain at a sacred shrine dedicated to a specific Saint. They are similar to the Enclosed Priestess in the fact they take vows of Chasity yet differ in the fact due to the nature of a Shrine, they are not forbidden by vows of silence due to their more interactive duties such as forcing to run a and maintain a Shrine with local authorities by themselves, having to directly interact with those whom are wishing guidance through prayer and rituals and traveling their local village or town and helping those with spiritual guidance. Due to the nature of the Shrine and the area's where they are found, Shrine Priestesses instead wear Maja habits(Shinto Miko robes) which are far more practical and easier to maintain. Considered a sub variant of the Shrine Priestess, the **"Warrior Priestess"** is a Shrine Priestess whom has taken the vows of protection and that of the warrior, becoming something similar to inquisitor, leaving their Shrines during great times of strife and traveling through the lands in search of destroying any darkness that lingers, especially to those of the spectral and undead nature and purifying such a place with rituals, using sacred sutra's or directly destroying the darkness through battle.

During times of war, Warrior Priestesses will often willingly join the armies of Ivalice, aiding those within it's ranks with their spiritual needs as well as aid the army in defeating the spectral and the undead. To the common soldier, a Warrior Priestess is often viewed as a hero on the battlefield and therefor, their presence alone usually raises the moral of the entire army, especially when they are forced into the battle itself. On the field of such a battle, the Warrior Priestesses are known for their fearless and fanatical nature to the point of stubbornness as well as their martial prowers, allowing them to function as great warriors on the battlefield, able to hold their own quite well by themselves and never allowing such an enemy pass them. When a great monster of the undead or the spectral takes to the field, the Warrior Priestesses will make it her greatest priority in destroying such a monster no matter the stakes and will have no issues of destroying the beast at the stake of her own life. When a Warrior Priestess falls in battle just as a Grail Knight of Laetannia might would, the men and women around her and perhaps the entire army, will do whatever it is required to secure her body in the hopes of being put to rest. Although it is tradition for the Priestesses of Ivalice to be cremated, Warrior Priestesses, often seen as minor heroes are instead buried at the shrine they originated from. This is done so the warrior like spirit of the Warrior Priestess can continue to watch over the shrine she originated from as well as younger sisters whom had decided to follow in her path. Although some would believe this is foolhardy, this was actually proven when one of the Archduke's wives actually managed to summon the warrior spirit of the great warrior priestess, Nakano whom had sacrificed herself to kill an Elder Banshee two centuries ago during the Second Storm of Darkness. In Ivalice society, being the spiritual leaders and protectors of the Saints of Ivalice, The Priestesses hold considerable influence and prestige to the point it is actually considered illegal to harass, insult or assault a Priestess, not to mention the people of Ivalice considered it a crime worse than death itself. Due to their importance, it is considered a high honor to be able to have a daughter be a Priestess or even have one be able to trace their lineage to a Priestess. It can also said that due to their high standing in society and their importance to their duty, the Priestess is considered above the law when conducting her duties, especially those whom are Warrior Priestess however to make sure they do not take misuse such a power, such Priestesses are heavily trained and indoctrinated before becoming Warrior Priestesses.

As one might expect, becoming a Priestess is a life long journey and is often aimed towards young girls at the age of ten to join the Priestesses although older women may join as well as long as their chastity is still intact. It is possible to be born into the Priestesshood by being given to the Priestesshood as a baby or If something tragic occurred such as a Priestess being raped, her baby, If female will be trained as a female while a boy will become a honored helper. Those whom are not pure may not join and become Priestesses but those whom have a strong calling to the Saints may become volunteers or honored helpers, aiding the churches and cathedrals in ways the Priestesses can't due to their limited interaction. When a young girl or woman joins the Priestesshood, they come to live in the churches and cathedrals, leaving whatever possessions they had behind as well as friendships however they still allowed limited communication with their family to those whom have children within the Priesthood through usually tragic means, may still be allowed to raise their children depending on the church or cathedral. Once in the Priestesshood, the young girl or woman be taken under a mentor Priestess whom will train them for seventeen hours every day until they are deemed indoctrinated ready to become a Priestess. After they become a Priestess, those whom share particular characteristics or aptitude for being a Shrine Priestess or a Warrior Priestess will usually be transferred for such a duty although it's always upto the Priestess at hand and even for Priestesses whom don't have such initial ability for that duty may switch as well. While becoming a Shrine Priestess is relatively easy to switch and adjust to, to become a Warrior Priestess takes many years being trained by far more experienced Warrior Priestesses and by the Knights of Ivalice, often spending their entire days through the most rigorous combat and mental training imaginable in an attempt to make sure only the strongest physically and only those with the strongest of wills become a Warrior Priestess. Just like when they joined, there is no set period when a Shrine Priestess is deemed ready to become a Warrior Priestess until her mentor says so.

## Military

Despite the fact Ivalice is only composed of a few small regions compared to the Thrymir Empire and other Kingdoms within Thrymir, Ivalice has dedicated much of it's resources to it's military, allowing Ivalice to have a substantial military, capable of holding it's own, even against the biggest of threats such as the Thrymir Empire and even Chu, albeit only for a limited amount of time. This is largely due to a few factors such as

1. **Manitory conscription**: At the age of eighteen years old or when a citizen reaches physical and mental maturity, they are automatically consripted into the military where they need to serve for at least two years. During this time, soldiers recieve free room, needed necessities as well as not having to pay any taxes while serving. Those whom wish to contiune to serve whom show great skill and displine may contiune. There are exceptions to the consriptions, those who are of noble birth may deny conscription if they are already in service to a noble or Knight in some type of training such as being a Squire, those with severe enough disabilities are permitted to deny conscription although they still join If they show they are able capable of performing the necessary duties of a soldier and for those whom show exceptional and rare talents or intellect may deny conscription If they are already in a college or schools to improve their abilities. Those whom perform exceptionally, go beyond the call of duty and/or serve for a decade or two will recieve their salary even after their retirement with the most honored not having to pay taxes.
2. **Mixed Forces:**Ivalice is amongst the only Human Kingdom within Thrymir to field and maintains a military force comprised entirely of diverse races such as

* **Human:** Used as foot soldiers, they are the standard soldiers of Ivalice, they are often organized into units of swordmen and halberds with veteran soldiers often organized into small units wielding great weapons such as greatswords.
* **Weldra:**Due to living in Bermon orginally, Weldra are often put into units dedicated to archery and scouting
* **Arachdra:**The Mysterious and half deadra looking Arachdra, due to their overwhelming numbers and usually low intelligence as well as their animal instinct drive to kill, they are the vanguard of any Ivalice force, using their hordes to overwhelm the enemy or at the very least soften them up for the main force to elminate. Arachdra with human intellienge often given support roles such as aid in the production of fabric goods such as uniforms or even smithing due to their bodies producing high quality silk.
* **Laetannian:**Due to their high endurance and their lack of fear, Laetannians are always formed into units of shock troopers, deadra slayers or cavalry.
* **Deldra and Eeldra:** Due to the rarity of Elves, they are more often than not, put into support units whom use some sort of magic to aid the forces in Ivalice in battle. Sometimes they are used as diplomats as well due to their natures.

**3.The Usage of Magic:** Due to Ivalice accepting all races on Athrunial within their borders and despite the fact magic still being extremely rare amongst the people of Ivalice to consider it near myth, Ivalice has enough Deldra and a few Eeldra within their lands to form a small unit of spell casters whom are capable turning the tide of an entire battle using offensive magic or If needed, defensive magic such as illusions.
Within Ivalice's military, there are two branches,

**4. Highly Trained:** The Military of Ivalice is highly trained and disciplined compared to others of the empire in an effort to compensate for it's low numbers.

### **Arch Army**

Is the primary fighting force of Ivalice as a whole and forms the backbone of Ivalice's military, without it's regular ground forces, Ivalice would have perished long ago. The Arch Army is the main force that is responsible for protecting it's borders, keeping civil disorder and routing any enemy threat, no matter whether it's external or internal. The organization and hierarchy of the Arch Army was quite simple, at the top was the Archduke himself whom has complete control over the military and is more than capable of taking command and giving orders however to do this, the Archduke would usually give orders to his Knights Council whom would perform these orders without question as well as perform the day to day activities of the Arch Army. Below the Knights Council are the Lord Commanders whom in command of an entire military force within a region. If multiple Lord Commanders would have to work together to complete their objective, they would form a council on how to do so. Below the Lord Commander are the regular military officers whom are given control over a number of troopers to perform their tasks.

### **Arch Army Ranks**

* **Lord Commander -** in charge of legions comprising of twenty thousand to fifty thousand men
* **Marshal - i**n charge of a regiment comprised of five thousand to ten thousand men
* **Captain -** in charge of a battalion comprised of a thousand men
* **Lieutenant -** in charge of leading companies of two hundred men, second in command in battalions of five hundred to a thousand men under a Captain
* **Master Sergeant of Arms -** In charge of leading a platoon of fifty men, are second in command in companies of two hundred men led by a Lieutenant although can be in charge if needed
* **Sergeant -** in charge of leading five to ten man squads
* **Corporal -** Second in command of five to ten man squads
* **Private -** Standard lowest rank after graduatioon
* **Conscript** - Militia or soldiers just recruited and pressed into service

### **Adeptus Knights**

Is Ivalice's autonomous seperate military of branch. The Adeptus Order of Knights is a Chivalric of Knights formed by the Archduke, Seto Kurama who's task is to act as the spearhead of Ivalice's military, to use small, highly trained, elite Knights to smash through the enemy at the right moment. Due to their autonomy granting them freedom, the Adeptus Knights only answer to the Archduke although the Knights Council and the Ebony Matrons can stop their actions or movements if both agree. The Knights themselves under most circumstances have no power in the government as they were meant to do battle against Ivalice's enemies as well as to protect it, not to lead it. By feudal right and traditions, the Adeptus Knight have a right to bear entire armies, sieze any military stronghold or castle and any supplies they need, provided they can prove they need it
The Adeptus Knights are organized in the same manner as Knightly Orders spreadout through out all of Thrymir, into a Chapter, a military force of nearly a thousand warriors although this number can vary depending on the time and situation a hand, this is not include adminstrative and functionary personal.At the top of command is the Grand Master also commonly called the Chapter Master in the Adeptus Knights as well as in other Knightly Orders scattered throughout Thrymir, the Grand Master is the supreme leader of the Adeptus Knight and can command the entire Order to follow his orders, he answers to no one but the Archduke, the Ebony Matrons and the other members of the Knights Council of whom he is apart of. Below him is the Knights of the Round whom help run the day to day activities of the Order, give advice to the Grand Master and often act as Generals in the field, almost all members of the round table are Grand Knights or even Celestial Knights with years of combat experience and leading forces into battle, it is  said if the entire round table came together in a single unit, their combat prowers would be near unstopable. Below even them are the Captains whom are usually Grand Knights or Knights Dominions that are incharge of a single company of Adeptus Knights. Within this company, the Captain will have two lieutenants whom will have control of half of the company is the Captain isn't capable of leading or is absent for one reason or another. The Companies are comprised of ten Knight squads whom are led by Knight Dominions whom answer to the lieutenants.

While the Adeptus Knights focus on their efforts on constant training and ever viligence over Ivalice, the Adeptus Knights have thousands of non combat personal whom are fully part of the Order but do not partipate in combat under most circumstances, instead they maintain the Order's lands, keep's, fortresses and are their smith's, crafters etc.

### **Adeptus Knight Ranks**

* **Grand Master -** The Leader of the entire Order, is a member of the Knights Council
* **Grand Knight -** Leaders of the Adeptus Knights and control all Knights within their region within the Order

* **Knight Dominion** - Veteran Knights, leads units of Knights into battle, often own their own land who serve a lord or a Grand Knight directly

* **Knight** - A standard Knight of the Realm, mentors squires

* '***Squire -'*** in service to a Knight, a Knight Dominion or a Grand Knight

* **Neophytes -** Trainee's

### **Renown Ivalice Units**

* **The Death Korps -** Also known commonly as the **"Corpse Brigade"** and as the **"Legion of the Damned",** The Death Corps is a military unit comprising entirely of individuals whom are already "dead" as society is concerned. These are warriors have lost their honour or broke the law and are attempting to amend for their crimes or redeem themselves and gain their honour through death on the battlefield. Anyone can join regardless of race or class in society and those of even outside of Ivalice may join the Death Korps. Clad head to toe in full plate ornately carved obsidian plate armor to hide any sign of a living person as well as to make everyone equal, these universally dour and serious warriors fight in complete silence, displaying a great aura of fear.
* **The Warrior Priestesses of Ivalice -** Able to hold off a small force single handily, these highly trained Warrior Priestesses function as the elite monster slayers of the Specter and Undead natures. They can also function as healers and as the spiritual leaders in battle, able to inspire men and women to greater heights through their shared belief over Ivalice's Saints.
* **The Drugham -** Considered rumor more so than fact, It is said Ivalice has a unit of Orc's and Pigmen under the Archduke's command named the Drugham whom function as primitive crack shock troops, smashing anywhere in enemy territory and doing ANYTHING ordered of them. It is said the Drugham are known to completely destroy cities and raid towns, murdering, raping and stealing anything of value, of course the Archduke has reputed their existence and no concentrate evidence has ever been found to link the two.
* **The Arachdra Horde -**  Commonly referred as the **"Horde"** and as the **"All Devouring Swarm",** The Arachdra Horde is Ivalice's most famous monster unit and wild card. From the swarms of lowly spider Arachdra infants to the fully developed Arachdra **,** they comprise the entire horde in the thousands with their only goal in life is to overwhelm the enemy through sheer numbers before killing and devouring than finally reproducing before dying. They are all telepathically linked to whom they call as the **"Mother"** whom in all sentimentality functions as a Hive Queen in an ant colony.The Mother telepathically gives the horde her orders whom follow her orders without question but she is controlled by the Archduke through some means presumably.
* **The Heavenly Retributors -** A very small unit comprising entirely of magic casters and advanced alchemists whom function as glass cannon vanguards for Ivalice forces.
* **The Celestial Knights -** The Personal Knights of the Archduke, They are the most Honored, Elite and skilled Knights within all of Ivalice. On the battlefield they function as bodyguards when the Archduke is present on the field of battle or when ordered, as vanguards for Ivalice's foces, acting as leading Champions. They often act as a solid unit of shock troopers.
* **The Lioness Knights -** The personal Knights of the Lioness of Ivalice
* **Shirona Knights -** Commanded by the Celestial Knight, Shirona, the Shirona Knights are one of the most elite knight formations within Ivalice which are known to be the only unit within Ivalice to use Ravatars as battle mounts
* **The Ebony Guard -** A unit of Black Knights specializing in convert operations
* **The Maenads -** Sometimes referred as the **"Horae",** The Maenads are the mysterious and fanatically loyal combat maids of the Archduke whom function as his personal guard throughout the entire day and night, especially when the Celestial Knights are not present. Besides being noted for their unsurpassing beauty and cold attitude towards almost anyone, it is common knowledge they are highly skilled warriors, assassins, rangers and even magic casters. While their main function is to act as bodyguards as well as the Archduke's personal servants for any needs he might require, they are often sent out to perform the most important assignment and duties the Archduke can entrust to. They also function as the palace's final defense, to hold whatever enemy at bay until the Archduke is ready to do battle.
* **Valkritter -** Also commonly known as the **"Stahlritter",** the Valkritter is a small elite unit comprising entirely of elite female Valkyrie warriors that serves directly under the Archduke and the Lioness. The Valkritter are known to be equipped with master crafted weapons and armor and often function as vanguard forces or as shock troopers
* **Iron hand flesh breakers** - simply called as the **"Iron Hands"**, **"Iron Warriors","Flesh Breakers"** and as the **"Flesh Tears"**, the Iron hand flesh breakers is a unit comprising entirely of Rominians clad head to toe in steel black armor with great weapons, the Iron hand flesh breakers make great line breakers and are known throughout Ivalice for their ferocity in combat. It is considered the highest honor for a Rominian to join the Iron hand flesh breakers as those in this unit gain the same ranks and respect in society as a Knight Dominion. To join the unit, every Rominians within the unit is required to kill a dire bear in single combat.