The Silver Dominion

The Silver Dominion is a theocratic nation located in the eastern continent, consisting of six territories ruled by noble houses under the guidance of the Dominion Church. The nation as a whole is ruled mainly by the Church of the Silver Prince, a powerful religious organization that spreads the word of the nation's patron deity. The Church holds significant political power and wields considerable influence over the country's governance and society.

The Silver Dominion was built upon the faith, sacrifices, and rare resources of its past, and has since become one of the most prosperous nations in its corner of the world. Its infrastructure, sustainability, and life expectancy are among its current greatest strengths, with well-paved roads, reliable transportation of goods, and high-quality healthcare services available to its citizens through the Church. However, the nation does face some challenges, including a shortage of natural resources and a lack of medicine.

The Church of the Silver Prince plays a central role in the nation's culture and daily life. Its teachings emphasize obedience, piety, and devotion to the Silver Prince, who is believed to have bestowed his favor upon the nation. The Church's hierarchy is headed by the Enlightened Silver Lord, who is considered the protective leader of the nation and wields significant political power. Below him are two Arch-Confessors who are the spiritual leaders of the Church, they are stationed within the Dominion's vassal states of Rivermond and Kalamar. The Church also maintains a powerful military force, the Dominus Chain, who are sworn to protect the nation and enforce the Church's teachings.

The people of the Silver Dominion are generally devout and highly respectful of the Church and its teachings. Religion holds great importance in their lives, and they are taught from a young age to adhere to the strict moral code espoused by the Church. The nation's society is highly stratified, with a rigid class structure that is largely determined by one's birth and family connections. Nobles, who are typically members of the Church's hierarchy or other powerful families, hold significant power and influence over the country's governance and economy.

Despite the apparent stability and prosperity of the Silver Dominion, there are some within the nation who oppose the current leadership and its policies. These groups are largely unknown to the public and operate covertly, fearing the Church's retribution. Nevertheless, they are active in their attempts to undermine the Church's power and create a more egalitarian society.

In terms of international relations, the Silver Dominion is a major player in the region, with significant trade and diplomatic ties with neighboring countries. The nation's wealth and military power make it a formidable force, and its influence is felt throughout the eastern continent. They have a tense rivalry with the Khein Dynasty and often clash along the border. However, the nation's religious fervor and aggressive expansionist policies have also earned it many enemies, particularly among those who reject its particular brand of faith.

History of the Dominion

First Age

The Formation of the Silver Dominion

The western territories of Agera hosted numerous affluent Houses that would lay the foundation for what is now recognized as the Silver Dominion. In the early ages, these noble Houses, while having territorial disputes, managed to maintain a degree of order. However, as their wealth and influence grew, their focus shifted towards self-interest. The year 860 marked a pivotal turning point as raiders from the northern kingdom of Kalamar descended upon the region. The sudden and unexpected attacks led to the pillaging of the Dominion's rich farmlands, prompting the Houses to unite and defend their territories collectively. Together, they repelled the raiders and established a defense army known as the Silverin Guard to thwart future incursions from the north, marking the inception of the Dominion of the Great Houses.

Second Age

The Arrival of the Silver Prince

Approximately 160 years later, in the year 40 of the Second Age, a divine figure, later revered as the Silver Prince, arrived in the western territories of Agera. This enigmatic figure, a towering presence exuding immense power and wisdom, wandered the lands. The nobility of the Dominion welcomed this divine entity into their midst, eager to gain favor. However, the figure quickly perceived the self-serving nature of the mortals, each attempting to sway him to their own agendas.

Understanding the machinations of the mortal Houses, the figure assumed a commanding stance, compelling every great House to submit to his divine authority. Displaying his extraordinary powers, the figure captured the admiration and faith of the people. Shrines and temples in honor of the Silver Prince began to emerge, marking places of worship across the Dominion. The Church of the Dominion, established 15 years later in the year 55 of the Second Age, solidified the foundation of worship and religious practices dedicated to the Silver Prince, shaping the Dominion's spiritual landscape.

The Annexation of the Kingdom of Rivermond

In the year 100 of the Second Age, a pivotal event unfolded as the mighty Silver Dominion laid claim to the southern territories of the Kingdom of Rivermond, igniting a fierce conflict. King Arion Rivers, a revered and principled ruler, staunchly opposed the Dominion's advances, seeing them as a threat to Rivermond's sovereignty. King Arion Rivers, known for his courage and determination, led his forces against the Dominion's expansionist ambitions. Despite his valiant efforts to defend the kingdom's independence, the Dominion's military prowess and strategic might posed a significant challenge. As the conflict raged, a clandestine betrayal brewed within the heart of the kingdom.

Prince Malachi, the ambitious and discontented son of King Arion Rivers, held clandestine grievances against his father. Feeling marginalized within the kingdom's power dynamics, Prince Malachi clandestinely formed an alliance with the Silver Dominion. His betrayal shook the kingdom, as he turned against his father and rallied support for the Dominion's cause. Tragically, amidst the chaos of battle, King Arion Rivers fell, marking a turning point in Rivermond's history. Prince Malachi ascended to the throne as King Malachi, empowered by his alliance with the Dominion. His rule marked the subjugation of Rivermond as a client state to the Dominion, albeit with King Malachi maintaining a nominal position of power.

Under King Malachi's reign, Rivermond underwent a transformation. The Dominion's influence penetrated the kingdom's affairs, leaving its mark on Rivermond's governance and policies. The kingdom navigated the delicate balance between its people's aspirations for true independence and the Dominion's exertion of control. Successive generations of Rivermond's rulers faced the daunting challenge of reconciling the desires of their subjects with the Dominion's demands. The kingdom remained torn between the ambitions of the Silver Dominion and the aspirations of its people. The monarchy grappled with constant pressure to harmonize the interests of the Dominion while addressing the needs and desires of its populace.

This complex and nuanced struggle for autonomy and sovereignty would resonate throughout the generations, shaping the political dynamics and future course of Rivermond's history within the vast and influential sphere of the Silver Dominion.

The Eastern Invasion

In the year 130 of the Second Age, the Silver Dominion faced an unprecedented threat as the forces of the eastern Khein Dynasty breached its territories, heralding a new challenge from the deserts to the east. This invasion marked a significant departure from the Dominion's centuries-old preparation for a northern assault, catching the noble Houses off guard. A series of fierce battles ensued across the Southern Hills, which would later come to be known as the Southern Skull Hills, as the Dominion mobilized its defenses against the unforeseen eastern aggression. Despite the initial surprise, the Dominion's forces stood resilient, fighting tenaciously to repel the invaders.

Amidst the conflict, the Silver Prince emerged as a crucial strategist and pivotal force in the defense against the Khein Dynasty's incursion. Recognizing the grave threat posed by the Khein forces, the Silver Prince personally intervened to negotiate a resolution to the conflict. A crucial turning point occurred during an intense confrontation between the Silver Prince and Prince Ahriman Khein, the leader of the invading forces and one of the immortal Princes of the Dynasty. In a dramatic showdown, Prince Ahriman attempted to strike down the Silver Prince, seeking victory for his Dynasty. However, the Silver Prince demonstrated unparalleled power and swiftly subdued Prince Ahriman, displaying an unexpected act of mercy before banishing him back across the continent to the deserts of his homeland.

This decisive and awe-inspiring display of divine power by the Silver Prince not only turned the tide of battle but also struck fear into the hearts of the remaining forces in the forest. Witnessing their leader's defeat and being faced with the might of the Silver Prince, the invaders dropped their weapons and hastily retreated, fleeing back into the territories of the Khein Dynasty.

The Dominion celebrated its first significant triumph over a formidable foreign threat, solidifying its military prowess and earning the admiration and fear of neighboring regions. This pivotal event further cemented the legend and authority of the Silver Prince, and the famed Silverin Guard, as defenders of the Dominion against external forces seeking to challenge its sovereignty. This also marked the beginning of an eternal rivalry between the two empires.

The Northern Crusade and the Conquest of Kalamar

For over a millennium, the Silver Dominion had meticulously maintained order, establishing control over its territories through the power of its Church and the influence of the Great Houses. However, as internal power struggles brewed between the noble Houses and the Church, the dominion was marred by a clandestine conflict in the shadows, signaling an impending upheaval. Amidst this unrest, House Silver, one of the oldest and most influential houses within the Dominion, sought to redirect attention and consolidate power through a grand undertaking: a crusade. In the year 576 of the Second Age, House Silver proposed and obtained approval for a crusade by invoking the Silver Prince's desire for global order.

The objective was a northern invasion, aimed at claiming the territories held by the Kalamar raiders who had evolved into formidable warrior clans over the centuries. The Church of the Dominion asserted its claim over the entire northern region, signaling its intent to expand the Dominion's dominion. However, the Kingdom of Kalamar, ruled by King Dagmar Karaheim, fiercely resisted the Dominion's advances. King Dagmar, a resolute and determined leader, stood unwavering in defense of his kingdom, refusing to relinquish Kalamar's sovereignty to the encroaching Dominion forces.

The crusade dragged on for 24 years, ravaging the lands and claiming numerous lives on both sides. The Dominion's armies, facing the resilient resistance of the Kalamar warriors, found themselves locked in a protracted struggle. Recognizing the impending harshness of the winter of year 600, the Dominion opted to negotiate a ceasefire. In the face of the coming winter's ferocity, the Silver Dominion and the Kingdom of Kalamar reached a compromise. The Dominion proposed that Kalamar become a vassal of the Dominion, allowing King Dagmar, now an old and tired man, to retain his royal title while submitting to the Dominion's authority. In return, the Dominion pledged to provide essential goods and supplies to aid Kalamar during the winter months.

Accepting the terms to safeguard his people from the harsh winter, King Dagmar Karaheim became the last King of Kalamar. The Dominion's calculated maneuver allowed them to annex Kalamar's territories, expanding their dominion while preserving the semblance of the kingdom's autonomy. This conquest solidified the Silver Dominion's control over yet another territory, marking the culmination of a hard-fought and costly crusade.

Third Age

The Infernal Incursion of Malagore

In the waning days of the Third Age, a cataclysmic event plunged the world into chaos as the infernal god Malagore, celestial brother of the Silver Prince, descended upon the mortal realm. His malevolent forces scoured regions, leaving devastation and ruin in their wake, scorching lands and shattering the very fabric of the world. For two tumultuous decades, infernal flames swept across the continents, threatening to consume all in their path. Responding to this unprecedented threat, the powers of the mortal realms united in a grand effort to combat the encroaching infernal menace. Four mighty armies were assembled, comprising the ancient Silverin Guard of the Dominion, the Sun Lords of the Nagan Empire, the Executioners of Light from the Khein Dynasty, and the valiant Blackmanes, led by the King of Kalamar.

Marching under the leadership of gods and mortal rulers, these forces gathered to confront Malagore in a climactic showdown. The battleground was Eros, a continent marred by Malagore's infernal touch. Amidst blazing landscapes and shattered terrains, the mortal armies clashed with the forces of fire and darkness, their desperate struggle echoing across the ravaged lands. In the intense battle that ensued, the might of the Silverin Guard was first to wane, crumbling under the relentless assaults across fiery fields. The Sun Lords, champions of the Nagan Empire, fell victim to the cataclysmic upheaval as the continent itself was rent asunder by the impact of divine powers. Separated from their God King, the Executioners of Light were quickly overwhelmed by the relentless onslaught of Malagore's minions.

In the throes of defeat, with despair looming over the battlefield, the King of Kalamar, in his final act of courage, invoked a long-forgotten name—Rhaaga. His sacrificial invocation heralded a turn of events that altered the course of the battle. Unleashed from her abyssal domain, the banished goddess Rhaaga surged forth, accompanied by a legion of abyssal creatures that rent the battlefield asunder. The clash between infernal forces and the dread goddess marked a pivotal moment, shattering the power of Malagore and his minions.

As Malagore's power waned and his forces dissolved, the joint efforts of King Horus Khein and the Silver Prince forced the banishment of Rhaaga back to her abyssal realm. However, only the heroic deeds of the Silver Prince were exalted in the annals of Dominion records. The cataclysmic event culminated in the shattering of Malagore and the end of his infernal reign, marking a new era—the advent of the Fourth Age.

Fourth Age

The Church Plot Unfolds

In the early years of the Fourth Age, the Silver Dominion found itself in a tumultuous state, grappling with the aftermath of cataclysmic events that left it vulnerable and shaken. As the remnants of the Great Houses struggled to maintain order, a clandestine conspiracy brewed within the heart of the Dominion's Church, a revelation shrouded in darkness and deception.

A faction of zealous believers, driven by an unsettling revelation, uncovered a secret that would shake the very foundations of faith. The discovery that their revered deity, the Silver Prince, harbored a fiendish heritage from his infernal origins became the linchpin of a carefully orchestrated plan. Secret rituals conducted over years, hidden from the prying eyes of the general populace, sought to exploit an archaic ritual that could potentially influence the Silver Prince.

Concurrently, the zealous group systematically erased the true name of their god from official records, advocating for his sole recognition as the Silver Prince. This manipulation of religious identity was subtly executed, drawing the Church into an edict that enforced this altered recognition. After a decade of preparation and careful planning, the zealots enacted their long-orchestrated scheme within the heart of the Dominion's capital, Enghilm. A dome of potent magic was erected, encapsulating the city within an impenetrable barrier. Simultaneously, a faction of these zealots besieged the inner sanctum of the Silver Prince, ensnaring him with powerful arcane restraints and confining him within his own chambers.

As their divine deity was magically stifled, the faction swiftly seized control, proclaiming themselves as the voices of the Silver Prince. They took charge of the Dominion Church, becoming its de facto rulers, while establishing a formidable military wing known as the Dominus Chain to enforce the Church's edicts. This bold and unexpected move left the Great Houses bewildered and powerless, unable to counter the swift and calculated actions of the Dominion Church. The capital transformed into a highly guarded temple city, accessible only to those deemed most loyal and faithful. With this unsettling turn of events, a new era dawned upon the Silver Dominion, ushering in an age of enigmatic authority and divine manipulation by the Dominion Church.

The Last King of Rivermond

In the annals of the Silver Dominion's history, the year 89 of the Fourth Age bears witness to a pivotal chapter—the reign and tragic end of King Eamon Rivers, the last sovereign ruler of the Kingdom of Rivermond. King Eamon's relentless pursuit of independence for his realm and people posed a persistent challenge to the Dominion's ambitions. His unwavering determination manifested through numerous proposals and petitions among his Lords and Ladies, seeking autonomy for Rivermond. Yet, despite his efforts, genuine self-rule eluded him, and the specter of Dominion control lingered over the kingdom.

The circumstances surrounding King Eamon's demise are steeped in mystery and folklore, giving rise to legends that endure through generations. Among the populace, a prevailing belief persists—that the Silver Dominion, perceiving him as a formidable adversary, orchestrated his assassination to eliminate a potent opponent. Tales of his tragic end recount the story of a valiant ruler who, in the pursuit of freedom, met an untimely and treacherous fate. Following the demise of King Eamon, the Silver Dominion seized the opportunity to solidify its control and reshape Rivermond to align with its own interests. The kingdom was partitioned into four distinct baronies—Bellmond, Redmond, Greenfield, and the capital barony of Rivermond. The highest-ranking Lords and Ladies were elevated to the titles of Baron and Baroness, symbolizing their newfound authority over their respective regions.

In the absence of a monarch, the Silver Dominion introduced a new governance structure—a figurehead known as the Arch-Baron. To maintain a semblance of continuity and to appease the remnants of Rivermond's nobility, this position was bestowed upon a member of the Rivers family, the same ruling lineage that had once governed the kingdom as a client state of the Dominion.

The era of the last King of Rivermond stands as a defining moment, marking the kingdom's subjugation to the firm control of the Silver Dominion. The division of the realm into baronies and the establishment of the Arch-Baron as the new head of state signaled the beginning of a new era, firmly entrenched under the influence of the Dominion. In the eyes of Dominion records, it was a strategic move to ensure stability and alignment with the Dominion's overarching agenda.

The Revision of Kalamar

In the wake of Rivermond's reformation, the Great Houses turned their attention towards remolding Kalamar to align with the dominion's vision. However, reshaping this sovereign land proved an arduous endeavor, demanding significant concessions and restructuring to appease the Dominion's agenda. Over time, Kalamar underwent transformative changes that reshaped its political landscape, marked by profound shifts in its hierarchical structure and governance.

The erstwhile title of "King" in Kalamar, once a symbol of sovereignty, was supplanted by the more subservient title of "Duke." This modification signified the relinquishing of regal authority to a more compliant position under the Dominion's overarching control. Similarly, the noble leaders known as warchiefs were rechristened as "Earls," reshaping the hierarchy within the kingdom. Kalamar, once a kingdom under its own rule, became a realm without a sovereign king.

Despite the dominion's efforts to institute these reforms, Kalamar's internal strife and resistance to this transformation became palpable. Many factions, driven by divergent motives, engaged in internal conflicts and power struggles, deeply rooted in the region's past glories and the enduring dream of attaining independence. The kingdom, though still retaining its inherent strength, found itself caught amidst internal discord and clashes, as various groups vied for dominance and autonomy, perpetuating a delicate balance between loyalty to tradition and aspirations for self-governance.

Sovereignty Type

The Silver Dominion is a theocratic Empire, meaning that it is ruled by religious leaders. The Church of the Silver Prince holds the majority of the power in the Dominion, and it is through them that the Prince's will is carried out. The Church is in charge of all aspects of society, including government, law enforcement, education, and even commerce.

The Church is made up of a hierarchy of religious leaders, paladins and warrior priests, who are responsible for enforcing the Prince's will and protecting the Dominion from outside threats. The paladins are trained in both combat and magic, and are feared throughout the land for their strength and devotion.

The Dominion is divided into six territories, each ruled by a noble house. The nobles are the founding families of the Dominion and some are chosen by the Church based on their loyalty to the Prince and their ability to govern. While the nobles hold some power in their own territories, ultimately they are subservient to the Church and must obey its edicts.

There are few opposing groups within the Dominion who are against the current leadership, but they are largely unknown to the public. The Church maintains a tight grip on information, and any dissent is quickly suppressed. The Prince's word is law, and those who defy it are punished severely.

The Great Houses of the Dominion

The Great Houses of the Silver Dominion are an integral part of the nation's history and culture. Each of these houses holds immense power and influence, with a rich history that dates back centuries.

House Silver, being the first noble house established during the transition from the old Kingdom to the Dominion, holds a special place in the hearts of the people. They were the primary political power in the early days of the Dominion, and while their influence has waned over the years, they still hold a great deal of respect and prestige in the west coast.

House Elrik, on the other hand, is considered to be the strongest house within the Dominion. This is due to their strategic location at the border towards the Khein Dynasty, which has made them a prime target for attacks over the years. The household is heavily guarded and fortified, with many of its members being veteran soldiers.

House Tusk, the youngest noble house in the Dominion, was once one of the clans from Kalamar. They were the last of the clans to bend the knee to Dominion rule, and in exchange, were granted nobility. This clan has since risen in power to become one of the great houses of the Dominion.

House Cal is known for being the most peaceful household within the Dominion. They are located at the border towards Rivermond and safeguard the main trade route that passes through the two regions. This house is also responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations between the Dominion and Rivermond.

House Moor, another former clan from Kalamar, was the first to welcome their new rulers during the invasion. Their display of trust was rewarded with nobility, and over the years, they have become one of the richest houses in the Dominion. They are known for their vast wealth and business acumen.

Finally, House Tarvik is one of the oldest noble houses in the Dominion. They are known for their expertise in fishing and sailing, with many of their members being great fishers and sailors. They control many fish markets and fishing fleets throughout the Dominion, and their knowledge of the ocean tides has been invaluable to the Dominion's naval power.

Geography and Culture

Situated in the heart of the Agera continent, the Silver Dominion spans a significant portion of the western region. The capital, Enghilm, nestled amid the Silver Peaks mountains, stands as the central hub of the Dominion. Notable cities like King's Port, Eryndil, and Bronze Harbor serve as crucial centers of commerce and culture. The Dominion features diverse landscapes, including farmlands that dominate extensive fields across the region. Mountains, such as the Silver Peaks, and hills offer abundant mining opportunities, fostering numerous operations extracting precious minerals like silver and iron. Vast untouched areas sprawl beyond urban centers, preserving natural beauty and wildlife.

Culture

The culture of the Silver Dominion is deeply influenced by their religion and the worship of the Silver Prince. The Prince is considered a divine being and his word is taken as law by the majority of the population. This has led to a society that values obedience, loyalty, and discipline above all else. The people of the Dominion are proud of their faith and are often seen as zealous and uncompromising.

Their customs and rituals are often steeped in religious significance. The use of pure silver in their religious symbols, figurines, vases, and rings is a reflection of the importance of wealth and prosperity in their faith. The people of the Dominion also place great emphasis on sacrifice and helping others, as these are central tenets of their religion.

The Dominion is predominantly made up of humans, high elves, and dwarves, and their culture reflects this diversity. However, their society is not without its flaws. While the people are loyal to their faith, they are less honest in their dealings with others. This is likely due to the emphasis placed on obedience and loyalty above all else.

Despite the widespread devotion to their faith, there are few opposing groups within the Dominion who are against the current leadership. However, these groups are largely unknown to the general public. The Dominion's religion and culture are met with hostility in the rest of the world, which has led to some isolationism and a general suspicion of outsiders.

The Dominion's booming economy and infrastructure are among its greatest strengths. However, their reliance on rare resources has made them vulnerable to economic fluctuations. The lack of medicine and natural resources has also been a weakness for the Dominion. Overall, the culture of the Silver Dominion is heavily influenced by their religion and their pride in their faith.

Primary Threat

The primary threat to the Silver Dominion is the spread of heretical views from the Khein Dynasty, which poses a threat to the religious foundation of the Dominion. The Khein Dynasty is located to the east of the Dominion and has been in a vague truce with them. The Khein Dynasty's "heretical" views are in direct conflict with the religious teachings of the Silver Dominion, which can cause unrest and instability within the Dominion.

The Silver Dominion's leadership is aware of this threat and is working closely with the public to address it. They have taken steps to prevent the spread of the heretical views, such as increasing border security and conducting investigations into any suspected activity. The Church of the Silver Prince is also working to counter the Khein Dynasty's views by spreading their own teachings and promoting the importance of the Silver Prince in the lives of the Dominion's people.

The threat from the Khein Dynasty is not to be taken lightly, as it could lead to a significant shift in the religious beliefs of the people within the Dominion. The leadership and the Church are doing everything in their power to prevent this from happening and maintain the traditional teachings of the Silver Dominion.

Population and Diversity

The Silver Dominion stands as a melting pot of diverse races, harboring a populace of nearly 12 million individuals. The Dominion's demographic landscape showcases a blend of various races, each contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region. Predominantly, humans and elves constitute the primary population groups, their presence echoing the historical roots and influential roles within the Dominion. Adding to this colorful mosaic are the sizable populations of goliaths originating from the northern territories, renowned for their strength and resilience. The southern regions are inhabited by dwarfs, who bring their craftsmanship and mining expertise to the Dominion's cultural and economic landscape.

A distinctive addition to this diverse population are the native halflings, known for their industriousness and community-oriented lifestyle. Among the inhabitants are also the kenku, flightless avian humanoids whose enigmatic presence contributes to the Dominion's unique cultural tapestry. This rich and varied populace converses primarily in three languages: Common, the widely spoken tongue bridging communication among various races; Elvish, reflective of the elven heritage and culture; and Dwarvish, preserving the linguistic legacy of the dwarven communities within the Dominion. The linguistic diversity mirrors the amalgamation of races and cultures, contributing to the unique and harmonious coexistence within the Silver Dominion.

Population Opinion

The population within the Silver Dominion is deeply rooted in their religion and their daily lives are highly influenced by their faith. This religious devotion has resulted in the people of the Dominion being highly obedient and law-abiding citizens, as they believe that following the Prince's teachings will lead them to eternal salvation.

The people of the Dominion are proud of their nation and its accomplishments, which include impressive infrastructure, sustainable practices, and high life expectancy. They are also proud of their religious customs and special rituals, which they believe help them connect with the divine and bring them closer to eternal life.

While the Dominion is not without its problems, such as a lack of medicine and natural resources, the people generally feel content with their lives. They rely on their faith and community support to overcome these challenges, and they take great pride in their ability to persevere in the face of adversity.

"Question not, be content to serve the Dominion."

Laws and Common Penalties

The Silver Dominion operates under a stringent legal system where the Church wields considerable influence, governing the populace through strict religious laws that permeate every aspect of daily life. These religious laws are uniform throughout the Dominion and extend, to varying degrees, into territories governed by its vassals. At the heart of the Dominion's legal framework lies the dogma and doctrines dictated by the Church, with blasphemy against established religious beliefs carrying the harshest penalties. The Church acts as the moral compass of the Dominion, imposing its laws and ensuring compliance with religious edicts.

Each region ruled by the Great Houses maintains a semblance of autonomy in law enforcement. Local knights, in collaboration with the clergy, administer and uphold local laws within their respective territories. These laws often complement the overarching religious statutes while addressing specific regional concerns. The Church's teachings are woven into the legal fabric of the Dominion, influencing codes of conduct, social norms, and judicial proceedings. Disobedience or opposition to the Church's directives carries severe consequences, ranging from social ostracism to severe punishments such as exile, branding, or even execution in cases of grave offenses.

Law enforcement is carried out rigorously by both local authorities and the Church's ordained representatives, ensuring the implementation of laws and penalties. The enforcement is designed not only to maintain societal order but also to reinforce the authority and sanctity of the Church's influence. Underlying the Dominion's legal structure is a complex interplay of religious doctrine, regional laws, and the authority of the Great Houses. While the Church establishes the fundamental legal guidelines, local laws cater to specific regional needs and are enforced through the combined efforts of local knights and clergy.

This meticulous balance between religious doctrines, regional laws, and the centralized authority of the Church and the Great Houses creates a legal landscape that emphasizes adherence to religious beliefs while maintaining a semblance of localized governance.

Common Penalties

Resources and Trade

The Silver Dominion boasts a diverse landscape that facilitates varied resource extraction and trade opportunities. Hills and mountains within its territories host extensive mining operations, yielding valuable metals like copper, while local sources of iron contribute to the Dominion's industrial capacity. The country's rich farmlands and fertile fields ensure a robust agricultural output, providing sustenance for both its populace and trade partners.

Imports

Despite its substantial mineral wealth, the Dominion imports silver, gemstones, and specialized materials to satisfy the demands of its ornate religious practices and affluent upper class. These imports play a crucial role in the Dominion's arcane practices and contribute to the magnificence of its religious institutions. Furthermore, the Dominion sources various food products and medicines from neighboring countries, supplementing its local supplies and ensuring access to diverse culinary choices and specialized pharmaceuticals not readily available within its borders.

Exports

Copper, extracted from the Dominion's mines, serves as a primary export alongside other vital resources such as timber, gravel, coal, and salt. These exports bolster the Dominion's economic stability and fortify its trade relationships across borders. The Dominion's emphasis on these natural resources underscores its commitment to fostering trade and economic growth within the region.

Maritime Relations and Sea Trade

The Dominion's reliance on sea trade, particularly through the Imperial Bay, stands as a vital component of its economic prosperity. Sharing these waters with the neighboring Nagan Empire necessitates maintaining amicable and open relations to facilitate safe and unimpeded trade. Diplomatic efforts and strategic alliances are crucial to ensuring the smooth passage of goods through these shared maritime territories, underscoring the importance of fostering harmonious relations between the Dominion and the Nagan Empire.

The Silver Dominion's strategic positioning, diverse resources, and trade practices serve as cornerstones of its economic stability, cultural prominence, and diplomatic engagements. Its reliance on imports for specific resources emphasizes its commitment to excellence in craftsmanship, trade, and societal well-being, while its maritime ties highlight the significance of maintaining peaceful relations for continued economic growth and stability.