[Forum Game] Rise and Fall of Civilizations

[baboushreturns]

The Rise of Umouafia ​

The city of Umouafia having resided for many centuries on the banks of the Niger River rose to great prominence during the 4th Century BCE. As the Sara people adopted Bronze Age weapons and tools they became more adept at farming and as a result the population within those lands inhabited by the Sara greatly rose during this time period. The city of Umouafia had long struggled to find a correct form of government as the traditional Sara form of direct democracy proved inefficient shifted to a new system. A council consisting of 25 elders within the city was elected once every year to handle the domestic affairs of the city. The council would then elect one prominent war chieftain from among the warriors of the city and this man would be responsible for the protection and leadership over the "army" of the city during the one year term in which the council which elected him would serve. This governing system proved effective for the city and soon neighboring communities petitioned to join the council of Umouafia, primarily out of the economic boons the city could provide and secondly out of the safety their war chiefs could guarantee.

By the end of the fourth century the city of Umouafia had grown into a nation and held land and vassals all up and down the Niger river. However they would not remain unchallenged, other African peoples having learned the ways of bronze working and hearing of the prosperity of the Sara lands would begin migrations into Nigeria. The first of these migrations were fended off as the council of Umouafia managed to rally enough support from the tribes to push the migrants out. However eventually these migrations would grow larger and without a proper established army they were impossible to hold back. As a result the Sara were forced to adapt. Umouafia would change drastically as the war chief's gained more power and Sara society itself would become much more warlike.

For the first time in the history of Sub-Saharan Africa a standing army consisting of several thousand tribal warriors was raised in the city and under the leadership of one great war chief known as Chidi of Aceboko the tribes tribes were thrown out of the traditional Sara lands and the city of Umouafia expanded to encompass nearly all lands in which the Sara people traditionally lived.

 

[DensleyBlair]

On the Decline of the Elenic Kingdom

​

The mid- and late periods in the history of the Elenic Kingdom are filled predominantly by turmoil and political crises in domestic affairs. This was fomented primarily by the centralising and increasingly authoritarian policies of the Liarto–Kairian dynasty who ruled the kingdom uninterrupted from the death of Mégither in 619 BCE to the fall of Cthasos in 503 BCE.

Ostensibly, the accession of the Liártan dynasty proved an advancement for Elenic democracy. After the overthrow of the genè Alexàndrii by the Eklisos in 650 BCE, the genoi in the legislature became far more suspicious of attempts to dictate succession via dynasty, ensuring that they controlled succession and placing various checks and balances on the office of the vákilos. Megither's reign (650–619 BCE) was successful domestically in this regard as he did not attempt to override the Eklisos, ushering in a period of political stability following the turbulent ejection of the Alexàndrii.

On Megither's death, the Eklisos elected as his successor the head of the relatively minor genè Liártii – the rationale being that the elevation of a small dynasty to high office would be less dangerous than the elevation of an already powerful faction to the royal dignity.

Megither's successor, Liárton Krísè, soon proved to have other ideas. Immediately, he set about ensuring that he held the loyalty of the military by establishing outposts in Kaligos, Sandiòn and the Valéroi[1] and installing his allies as arkhois perivēs, or "chiefs of the district". By then bribing various members of the rival genoi in the Eklisos, Krísè was able to count on a wide support base that left his rule unchallenged. Crucially, this also meant that he was able to secure the succession of his grandson after him with relatively little difficulty. Liárton Liártūs was elected by the Eklisos as vákilos in 591 BCE and reigned until his death in 546 BCE.

Under Liártūs, the Liartan system of government was expanded and reached its zenith. He was an adept political intriguer, with later historians such as Scrivō and Kaphūs attributing twenty-six prominent assassinations to him, either directly or indirectly. His victims were mostly dissenting eklisoi – notably Aíaxē in 578 BCE, who had previously called for Liártūs' impeachment. Other rivals were simply bought off or placated with sinecures.

Liártūs was succeeded by his cousin, Kríson Vakàsi (r. 546–534 BCE). Vakàsi would prove the final Liártan vákilos, though his successor Cthasos was a distant cousin. Vakàsi witnessed the collapse of his dynasty's regime, with rebellions in the perivatoi a frequent occurrence and symptomatic of his loosening grip over the military. His funds were drained by the need to constantly placate rogue commanders, leaving him unable to bribe his opponents as his cousin had done before him. He was ultimately forced to resort to the arévo in order to stop a motion for his impeachment[2]. This was overruled by the military, who captured him trying to flee Elenìou and put him to death – allegedly by tying him to a bag of stones and throwing him into the Mégarder.

From the resultant power vacuum emerged Kairon Cthasos, Vakàsi's third cousin, who was voted into office by the military tribunes, bypassing the Eklisos. Cthasos was well-supported by the military, strengthening their political representation by establishing the Komithia Legìoi, an assembly that gave each of the hekátoi – or hundreds – in the army a political voice. He raised the Komithia above the Eklisos, granting them an arévo over all resolutions passed in the Eklisos – effectively insuring himself against impeachment as long as he kept the good graces of the military.

This proved to be 31 years, with Cthasos able to hold his system together until 503 BCE, when the kingdom, unstable for over a century, finally fell.

On the Fall of the Elenic Kingdom

​

Cthasos' demise came in 503 BCE, prompted by a chaotic series of events that laid the foundations for the final overthrow of the monarchy – the Rape of Herassia. Although certainly legendary, with the exact chronology and veracity of events unknown, it is agreed by most major Elenic historians that the events did happen, therefore they are not deemed mythical.

Tradition holds that, whilst on military duty in the city of Phalékas in Megathikē[3], Cthasos sent his son Tharkon to Elenìou to solicit further support from the Komithia. Tharkon stayed in Elenìou with Apòlon Iouìos Paulē, arkhon of one of the most powerful hekátoi in Thanidìa. Whilst dining one evening, Tharkon encountered Herassia, Iouìos' daughter-in-law, and became instantly infatuated. Motivated by this overwhelming desire, that night Tharkon entered Herassia's room and woke her. He then offered her a choice: either she submit to his desires and become his future queen, or he would have her husband killed and father impeached, then take her as his wife. Herassia submitted.

The next morning, Herassia supplicated herself before her husband, Apòlon Aìaxē Athorvō, and relayed the previous evening's events to him. She then drew a dagger and stabbed herself in the breast, seeking to restore her honour. Aìaxē wept as his wife lay dying in front of him, then took her dagger and presented it to his father-in-law, Herakon Geniòs. Geniòs was enraged by his daughter's death, and the two men each took the dagger and vowed to overthrow the Kairian dynasty and drive them from Elenìou.

Aìaxē had hitherto followed a relatively undistinguished career as a soldier in Thanidìa, sitting in the Komithia though never speaking – hence his ònovou ileis[4], which translates as 'I am silent'. He broke from this tradition, however, in rising at the next session to motion for the impeachment of Cthasos, the indictment of Tharkon and the eviction of the genè Kairii from Elenìou. Understandably, this caused outrage – though he was soon seconded by his father and his hekátos, who managed to turn the majority of the other arkhoi against the king after recounting Herassia's rape and subsequent suicide. Geniòs did the same in the Eklisos.

Summons were then read commanding Tharkon to appear before a joint session of both bodies to be tried for rape. The prince tried to evade justice by fleeing to Phalékas, but was captured by the city guard – loyal to their commanders in the Komithia – and returned to the Komithia, where he was beheaded. Enraged upon hearing of his son's execution, Cthasos returned to Elenìou intent on trying Aìaxē and his co-conspirators as traitors. Upon entering the city, however, he was captured and made to appear before the Komithia – who promptly declared his reign void and banished both him and his family from the Elenic borders.

The Eklisos and the Komithia then went further and declared the office of vákilos abolished, instead electing Aìaxē as légestor – an extraordinary magistrate imbued with imperium. Aìaxē then appointed Geniòs' son Markos as his arkhos ippoi, or Master of the Horse, granting him control over the military until they could be sure that there was no danger of a royalist counterattack. In the next few days, the other various defining offices of the Republic would come to be instituted[...]

___________________
1: The Balearics.
2: Literally 'I forbid', 'arévo' is synonymous with 'veto'.
3: Pollentia in Mallorca
4: A nickname; literally 'name to him', the implication being that the name is unique – though this was not always the case. Notable names would often be passed down as a sign of prestige.

 

[Shynka]

Khai's Succession

King Khai’s death is as shrouded in mystery as his origins. The Great Ruler only really reached fame during his initial coup and reign; as the years went by he was overshadowed, and not many historians have dedicated their work to studying his late reign. More emphasis is put on the succession crisis that followed him than his actual reign. Khai is estimated to have died roughly at the age of 48. The only source that speaks about his death was a script from 532 BC, found near the Caspian Sea that writes about the death of “The Lord of Asia”, citing that his doom came by the means of dragons. This source has often been questioned by some of the more extreme critics; where would the dragons come from? Who hired them? Did King Khai foolishly attempt to steal their gold?

It was only due to research done at the University of [This portion of the document is sadly lost in the crease] that found that dragons did not roam the world in this time period, or indeed ever, that this source was discredited. Many historians cite that Khai’s death most likely came by illness or old age.

Whatever the cause of King Khai’s demise might have been, his legacy shook the politics of Ardallan to the core. Khai, not wanting to be like the other Kings, did everything he could to make sure his oldest son, Anbu, took the Crown. He made a series of alliances that guaranteed the backing of certain Lammagai behind his son. The Nomadic Tribes of the Northern Volga, closely tied to the Slavs, were however for years rebellious against their new King. Khai’s Asian Policy and disruption of traditional rites meant that the Northern Tribes were the most opposed to his rule. They did not wish to see any more “foreigners” on their soil and decided to depose the new son. Upon Khai’s death, his oldest son was slain on his way between two cities; the fight for the crown would now be divided between Khai’s three next sons.

The oldest of his surviving sons, Afim, made alliances with the tribes his father left behind; the once powerful western nomadic families. Afim claimed the crown of Ardallan and prepared an army to go east, to destroy his two brothers whilst they still quarreled over who would be the one to take Asia. However, the western nomads, not wanting to institute another “spawn of Khai” up onto the throne planned to betray Afim from the very start. Afims army wanted to cross the Volga in the spring, but the river flooded and this was impossible. Afim decided to instead build up provisional forts alongside the river and wait until summer.

The second oldest surviving son, Tukam, sought alliances with the family of his wife. His father in law was a powerful Asian noble that rode along with Khai in many conflicts against Hatad. The army of Tukam gathered in the plains, where they hoped to meet and capture the third son, Ungam. Ungam, despite being the youngest son, was recorded as being the most cunning and brave in battle. The values exemplified by Ungam made it easy for him to rally the Eastern Lords around himself. Ungam however one fatal flaw had; he wanted to avenge his brother’s death before setting out to seize the throne. His mission was one primarily designated to seize justice, not the Crown. Ungam met the Northern Nobles in battle and defeated them at the end of spring. As his army rested, however, the army of his brother Tukam fell upon his rear, and a great slaughter ensued, as both sides suffered greatly. Afim would cross the Volga in the summer and find only token armies wandering the plains, ones that he easily slew. Afim’s rule was however never meant to be; the Western Nobles put a knife in his back. The two other brothers, caught prisoner, were exiled to the East. Tukam would die along the way of either dysentery or poison, and his brother would re-rally the remaining eastern Nomads around him. Ungam had no designation upon the United Ardallan crown and instead opted to fund his own tribes east. The crown of Ardallan was split into three.

 

[Clophiroth]

The Batzarretxe
​

Literraly meaning "House of Meetings", also known as Blitzarra in some cities. It was the name given to the local assemblies, councils and senates which ruled the Betis cities. It was not always a physical place (in smaller towns, meetings where just done in the main square, near a small building used to store the records), although bigger, more prestigious cities usually had a building reserved for the Batzarretxe, with that very same name, but usually referred to the group of citizens which ruled the city.

This body was elected, although the method changed from city to city, along with who was elegible for it: in some cities, only men with a certain amount of property could vote, in others, like Hispal, all freemen could vote, although no one could be elected unless he has served in the militia. The elected members were the "Batzarkide", "The ones which meet", which would choose among them certain special positions:

First was the "Buruzagi", or "Chief", as the person which actually ruled in a day by day basis was named. He had to be a Zahar (Elder), over forty years old, and had to have been a Batzarkide for at least three years before it. He was the one really runing the city, as the Batzarretxe only meeted once a week, leaving him all the day to day chores, along with the representation of the city in diplomatic matters. He served for a year, and could be re-elected.

In bigger cities, a single man was just incapable of ruling it by himself. As such, he would usually name one or more Ahaldun, "Empowered one", to help him with its governance. Each Ahaldun had power over a limited area of the city governance (Justice, Militia, Public Feasts...) or over an specific district or, even, people (mostly, caring for foreigners in the city, which were mostly merchants). There were selected by the Buruzagi, and would serve until the end of his term, or until sacked.

Another more specific position was the "Errege Sakratua", or Sacred King. Betis´ cities were republican in nature, but Argadic religion, which their faith come from, assimilated the High Priest and King position. As such, some rituals were to be perfomed by the King. As they lacked a King, they would choose a respected man to become a Sacred King, who was the one to perform all the religious duties previously assigned to the king. Aside from that, he had no political power, and even was banned to enter the Batzarretxe building. Usually, they served for life, although they used to be old when elected.

Towns and villages were usually autonomously governed, although they belonged to a bigger city. They had smaller Blitzarras, althouh most of time government was left to a Jabeak, or wealthy landowner which cared for day to day issues, and was the one paying the village tribute to the city.

 

[Ranger900]

The Unification War
​

Following the Inhashi invasion of Zhou, Nanuan underwent a rapid state of growth as it aimed to counter the Manchurian invaders. The first avenue of expansion for the Nanuan was into the tribal states that inhabited the lands between Zhou and Nanuan. These states shared much of the fears about the aggressive Inhashi that the Nanuan did, and with the lack of Qaranist growth into the area, the addition fear of their religions being wiped out was present. As such many of these tribes joined under Nanuan willingly, as the larger state was their only hope for standing against the Inhashi.

A few tribes did not join into the Nanuan peacefully though, and the Nanuan generally left these tribes alone at the time, focusing on keeping their reserves for the coming battle with the Inhashi. Only when a tribe could be easily subjugated by force was it used. The main hold outs that avoided Nanuan subjugation was the farmer tribes of Jiangnan. These tribes were isolated by the heavily forested mountains in the region, and believed that the war would not come to them in their seclusion. The tribes though were quite strong, and with their terrain the Nanuan left them be for fear of getting pulled into a major military campaign against them when the Inhashi still stood.

Following the subjugation of the tribes, the Nanuan made their move. Defeating an Inhashi army that was raiding the Zhou, they managed to strike an advantageous deal with the beleaguered state, putting the Zhou as a client state of the Nanuan. With more or less the remaining territory of the third major regional power willing put into Nanuan hands, including its people and resources, the Nanuan now had a firm base to strike from. Holding back the Zhou forces, along with its own, the Nanuan leadership mostly used the more mobile tribal armies to wear down the Inhashi, bringing in the combined might of the two major states only when a crushing blow was to be dealt.

Soon enough the Inhashi had been driven nearly out of Zhou lands, and a short peace was bargained by the Manchurians and the Nanuan. Which was immediately put to use by the Southern State to bring fresh supplies and troops to Zhou, preparing the killing blow against the invaders.

 

[alexander23]

The first great Qaranism Unification war and the raise of Xia Ma
​

The accounts of these events vary wildly depending whom we are reading. Inashi and Nannuan accounts reflect different realities and as such is belive a middle gorund was the true outcome. But we can never know.

According to Inhashi writings. Empress Xia Me Lead the first reunification of zhou and inhashi. The inahshi themselves crushed the Zhou army in the field several times yet the pacification and conquest of the cities became, difficult and occupied much of their time.

At the same time, the hated enemies of the Inhashi the nannaun moved and began the conquest of all the tribes between them and the Zhou dynasty. Contrary to what their writings said. The tribes did not join voluntarily and most inhashi accounts said the tribes were near slaves of the city states of the nanuans, something that disgusted them as they hated slavery and was not practiced in inhashi territory as going against the Qaranism precepts.

However the Nanuan were cunning fox and waited until zhou had fallen to invade. By this time the Inhasshi army was tired and wanted to go home yet they keep fighting for twenty years the invading misguided men and woman from the south. With no real defeat achieved a truce was established none though would last for a titanic confrontation was bound to contnue.

Empress Xia Me became depress of what the tales tell us from the failure to expel the heretics and her daughter XIa Ma became the shadow ruler until her ascension at 30 years old to the throne. Considered one of the most brutal and efficient leader of the inashi she set for a different path that her mother. A veteran of the last years of the war with nanuan, she became dilisioned with the ways of the war and the whole inhashi army and set a reformation of it to beat the heretics. She was pragmatic, Brutal and some call her sadistic, and more importantly could think diplomatically something most inhashi leaders lacked which set the next stage for the war on china.

It was inevitable, once her mother passed "mysteriously" during her sleep she swiftly came to power, married to a important tribe of Manchuria some years before by her own choosing and intentions. With all the power officially hers the war was soon unavoidable and would leave untold numbers death.

 

[Duke of Britain]

Grogorias II Daedileai​

Grogorias II (522-484 BCE) was the reigning King of the Daedileai in the turn of the 5th century BC, having reigned from 501 to the time of his death. Under his rule the Daedileai Confederation would, through the peaceful incorporation of other tribes and alliances or through forceful incorporation of his rivals, expand to control most of the Greek and Illyrian tribes in the western Carpathian basin and ancient Illyria. He often collected tribute from his tribal enemies in the form of livestock, seeds and young women or children, and used those to build up his own native tribe and powerbase. By the time the abrupt end to his reign came, the Daedileai were by far the most powerful of the Greek tribes and the one that possessed the largest Katakouzei force among the tribes, facts which had gained him much respect among his peers and fear among his enemies.

One of the most important sources of income to Grogorias was the tribute paid by the Ambrian cities and lords to the west. Ever since the fall of Ambria, centuries ago, the Ambrian border had been a place of great conflict between the Greeks and Ambrians, whose historical rivalry only intensified over time. Grogorias put an end to the constant war in the border through the subjulgation of most Ambrian settlements in the territory, yet that would breed intense resentment to his harsh rule over the Ambrians.

By the latter half of 485, an alliance of Ambrian cities formed and stopped paying tribute, which prompted Grogorias to invade the rebels. The Ambrian army was feeble and composed mostly by old men, therefore it could not fight the experienced and well-led Greeks, yet their resistance was fierce and forced Grogorias himself to maintain constant military presence in the region. It took little more than a year, however, for Grogorias to be murdered by an unknown assassin. At the time of his death, Grogorias possessed two sons, twins who were aged 17 and did not command the respect of their father.

Grogorias death threw the Greek camp in disarray and soon enough the leaderless Greeks, no longer bound by a powerful and respected leader, retreated back to their homeland. The Ambrians had succeeded in their revolt. Without Grogorias to control the tribes, the Ambrians expected the Daedileai confederation to break apart and the Daedileai tribe to be destroyed by succession disputes, that would put an end to the largest threat the Ambrians faced. Little did they expect for Grogorias' sons to adopt a model of co-rulership rather than compete for succession and, in spite of their young age, create a threat far larger than Grogorias, or even the old Greek invasion of Ambria, could ever be.

 

[Stormbringer]

The World 500-350 BCE


Americas


Agriculture is rare in North America. Outside of the Columbia River valley there are few instances of intentional cultivation of crops. As a result the development of reliable farming methods in the Tennessee valley is a major milestone in the development of the North American societies. With farming come villages where sedentary tribes take care of the fields, and a growing population means expansion for the tribes that have adopted farming at the expense of tribes that remain hunter-gatherers.


Europe, Africa, and the Near East


The Second Celtic Period begins in the 5th century BCE with a consolidation of a number of Celtic tribes by King Brochfael who claims to be descendant from the original Celtic Kings and thus from the Celtic god. Unlike previous attempts to form some kind of tribal confederations Brochfael’s attempt succeeds by creating an administration and a set of laws that outlive him. His successors (typically the strongest chief of the region) maintain a mostly unified polity, accepting the rule of the King as long as the King has the strongest army, and this relationship gradually becomes codified in law and tradition.


Brochfael’s successors find it easier to rule a large Celtic Kingdom as a result of a number of developments in the last two centuries. Most importantly the emergence of larger villages and towns across northern Europe means that control of these towns is usually sufficient to control large territory. Travel between parts of the Celtic realm is more common, as are communications via messenger birds. Iron weapons, as well as crossbows, mean that a small well-trained and well-equipped army can be a powerful force, thus eliminating the need for a massive standing army to control large territory. Brochfael’s success is mimicked relatively quickly by other powerful Celtic chiefs, and by the 4th century BCE a number of different Celtic Kingdoms replace the disparate tribal system that has existed before.


The Kingdom that Brochfael founds is destroyed after one of his successors launches a misguided invasion of Britain. With the army away the territory of the Kingdom is divided between two neighboring Kingdoms, although a small Celtic enclave in Britain remains, technically a successor to the King who brought about the Celtic revival.


Coinciding with the Celtic revival is the conflict between them and the Germanic tribe known as the Skerlings. Different Skerling petty kings harass the eastern Celtic borders, burning villages, pillaging, and displacing some of the Celts. This part of the Celtic realm is less developed than the western and southern parts and so the wars with the Skerlings resemble tribal warfare from hundreds of years ago. Gradually, as a Celtic Kingdom emerges in the eastern part of the Celtic realm the Celts become better able to defend themselves from the raids, and to even send punitive expeditions into Skerling territory. Although by the 4th century BCE the Skerlings are largely pushed back from Celtic lands they leave behind large stone totems, a reminder that for a time they fiercely contested this part of Europe.


The Celts are also under pressure from the Greek tribes to the southeast. In the 5th century BCE the tribes of the Deadileai Confederation invade the territory of former Ambria, and then from there the southern parts of the Celtic realms. The Greek rampage contributes to the collapse of Celtic chiefdoms in the south, and the consolidation of Celtic Kingdoms further to the North. A Greek Kingdom is established in the Terramare valley, incorporating what remains of the Ambrian polities, and becoming the most organized Greek polity (though Greeks remain a minority in Terramare).


Hispal remains the leading and most populous of the Betis cities in southern Iberia. Its size means that other settlements are naturally drawn into an unequal relationship with it, creating a system of tributaries. Hispal itself is governed in a republican style, though the smaller settlements around it do not always get a voice in Betis affairs.


The Betis area remains almost completely isolated from the rest of the Mediterranean. The Celtic Kingdoms of Iberia are the closest neighbors, and relations with them are not always cordial. Although agriculture is very productive in Betis there is little trade, whether with the Celts or with anyone else. In this way Betis continues to develop independently, with a society that is not part of the large Celtic or Mediterranean influences.


The Elenic Republic struggles in the first century of its existence. Born out of disputes between the military and the King the young Republic is dominated by military interests. Although the Eklisos regularly elects a new magistrate, the office comes to have very little power. The top military commander of the Republic rules as the de-facto leader, while other commanders run parts of the Republic as their personal fiefdoms. The kinds of internal conflicts and wars that brought about the end of the Kingdom continue to plague the Republic every decade or so, with central power waning throughout the period.


On Sicily, ruled during the time period by one of the most powerful Elenic military commanders and his descendants, relative stability and thriving commerce lead to a thriving cultural and scientific community. Links with the scholars of Yerida and Lydia allow Elenic scholars on Sicily to make scientific discoveries and to make significant contributions to the emerging philosophical tradition of the Eastern Mediterranean. Historical records, as well as descriptions of far-away lands by merchants and travelers, are collected and studied in Sicily, in an attempt to form a coherent picture of the World.


The Civil War that destroys the Empire of Ninowa results in a new polity in the Lydian lands. The Akadian Kingdom, ruled by the descendants of the last Emperor of Ninowa, spans the territories that were last to be incorporated into the Ninowa Empire. The Ninowans are a minority here, ruling over Lydian tribes and settlements with the help of local rulers. A military is formed, with elite units made up of Ninowan soldiers, while Lydians serve as everyday soldiers. Although there are no serious revolts, the culture of the ruling class continues to be very different from the culture and language of most of the population.


The rest of Ninowa is divided between Syria (ruled by a dynasty of a former Ninowa general) and Curdia. Neither of the two states appears strong enough to conquer the other, and the gradual economic decline in the area weakens both of them substantially.


In Central Asia the loose confederation of Ardelani tribes continue to push eastwards. Having adopted elements of Hatad religion the Ardelani require slaves and victims for human sacrifice, and thus seem to conquer and subjugate more lands. As the Ardelani spread further and further out the authority of the King wanes completely, with chieftains of individual tribes trying to carve out as much territory and as many slaves for themselves as possible.


Asia


The Drupada people, having mastered ironworking first in all of Asia, have remained largely confined to the Ganges delta. The small Burmese Kingdom has remained outside of the political structure of India, where numerous Indian Kingdoms have vied for power, partially due to the differences in culture and religion, and partially due to internal problems. After political changes in the 5th century BCE the Drupada begin a war of conquest against some of the disparate Indian Kingdoms. Using iron weapons and war elephants the Drupada armies easily crush the northern Indian Kingdoms, establishing a dominion over them. The disruption creates instability in the rest of the Indian Kingdoms, but it is unclear whether the Drupada, already ruling over a large area of different culture and religion, will be able to take advantage of it.


Despite the location of Drupada at the mouth of the Ganges trade has never been part of the Drupada society. Agriculture dominates life and a system of agricultural tribute is in place. This remains true of the conquered territories, with trade between the Drupada and the Indians essentially nonexistent, and trade with other Burmese tribes so minor that it is largely inconsequential for the Drupada society.


In the Far East the conflict between the Inhashi and the Nanuan quickly begins anew. In preparation for it Empress Xia Ma of the Inhashi creates an alliance with one of the Turkish tribes and with the nomadic tribes of western China. When Xia Ma leads her attack against the Nanuan she is brutal, destroying towns and villages, and burning all Nanuan land. Although it makes for a good legend, the strategy makes for poor logistics, as her army becomes bogged down, with no supplies. A dispute between Xia Ma and her Turk husband erupts into fighting and the Empress is killed. The Turks turn on the Inhashi, and together with the slave soldiers of the Nanuan destroy the remains of the Inhashi state.


The Yin state (name for Nanuan and its dependencies) maintains its brutal regime up to the Yangtze valley while the Turk and other tribes rule further north. Despite the fall of the Inhashi, Xia Ma is partially successful in her goal, as Qaranist religion becomes more and more common among the Turks and other Asian nomads in the decades that follow. The Yin themselves gradually establish a new dynasty in the northern lands along the Yangtze, and the roads and boat traffic between Nanuan and the Yangtze valley creates a cultural and economic network that ties together the north and south of China for the first time.


The World in 350 BCE

Map with terrain: http://i.imgur.com/C4PYiD6.png

 

[Stormbringer]

NOTE: Re-doing stats, so hopefully stats and map tonight, but maybe tomorrow. Mikkel returns to his previous civ. By my count that makes us exactly 12, so no other open spots this turn.

 

[Stormbringer]

Map is up, but stats are giving me trouble atm. May be up tonight/tomorrow, but maybe no stats this turn at all, not sure yet. Alex please post a new civ by Thursday if you are staying with us. IC/orders due Sunday as usual. Cheers.

 

[alxeu]

The Visions of Chief Sequoyah

The Tennessee Culture

C.A. 350 B.C.

Sequoyah relaying his visions to devoted followers.
​

The story of Chief Sequoyah is a divisive one, yet it is one that intrigues those who read it even today. Sequoyah's ancestry is traced by his historians to Chief Attakullakulla, which as one may remember ascended to become a God. Sequoyah claimed to have visions of the past and future, and claimed he saw a great tribe of man, ruling over all the land. He said that the spirits that surrounded them were, as the visions told him, subservient to a greater group of Spirits, who appeared to him in his dreams. In his dreams, he claimed that he saw Attakullakulla himself, Chief of the Spirits and Protector of Men, and that he mandated upon Sequoyah and his ancestors command over all men.

Naturally, Sequoyah's claims attracted doubters, and he soon faced a coalition of neighboring chiefs, led by the Chief of Mountain River, to the east ((around Knoxville OTL)), and in the skirmish many men were killed, including all the rival chiefs.

With his rule over the Tennessee tribes unchallenged, he moved then to establish his legacy. He set up small centers where men would give gifts to the Chief of the Spirits, and also to local spirits as well, and he set up a more permanent messenger system from tribe to tribe. He was in the midst of further strengthening the bonds of his new Kingdom when he was struck by a lone archer, and perished before naming an heir. His sons, all three of which were of age, split his kingdom, and within a generation the three rivaling successors were duking it out to determine who was the true heir to Chief Sequoyah.

 

[oxfordroyale]

Ishtari

Location: Western Sahara (something like this, Green color)

People and Society: The Ishtari are a collection of pastoral nomadic tribes who inhabit the sands of the western Sahara Desert. Ishtari tribal society is centered primarily on the ideas of community and family, and every Ishtari is expected to perform their given roles in a method that benefits all within their tribe. Originating from the east of the Sahara (likely pushed west by invaders from Arabia), the Ishtari hold their nomadic ways dear, and are adventurous, avid travellers. This, to an extent, contributes to their appeal towards raiding. The Ishtari are also a relatively gender-equal society, in part dye to their religion which promotes equality of the sexes.

The religion of the Ishtari, a polytheistic faith, is central to their society. It focuses on the worship of the moon as the god of life and good, known as Ish, and the hatred of the sun as the god of death and evil, known as Jekh, although there are several lesser deities and a complex mythology. Ancestor veneration, too, is prevalent, with the Ishtarti believing the stars to be the spirits of legendary ancestors whom Ish has deemed worthy enough to join him in the heavens. Many of the Ishtari tribal chieftains can trace their ancestral lines among the constellations of the night sky. The Ishtari take their religion very seriously, believing themselves to be Ish’s chosen people.

The Ishtari have no concept of written language save for crude symbols representing the different deities of their faith, and a primitive number system to keep track of livestock. Instead, the vast majority of the Ishtari language is spoken, and possesses a rich tradition of oral myths and legends – most of them centering upon notable Ishtari warriors and leaders (whose stars are often pointed about the tribe’s story-teller).

Government: The Ishtari are separated into numerous tribes that vary in size and migration patterns, each ruled by a chieftain (often advised by the most knowledgeable priest in the tribe). Chieftains can be male or female, although the former is more common. Tribes that are closer to the coast are more inclined towards sedentary behaviour – their migration patterns are usually comprised of short distances, and vary little year to year. Recently, these ‘coastal tribes’ have even created minor fishing villages from which they can produce a more reliable food source. The inland tribes, however, have migration patterns that are typically quite expansive, and tend to vary more every year. However, despite these distances, the Ishtari tribes are relatively unified. The chieftains of each clan often meet to discuss the best migration destinations of a given season, religious omens and rituals, and the like. In the same way that each tribe considers itself a large family, all Ishtari tribes view themselves as part of a whole. Because of this, while Ishtari tribes are prone to raiding their neighbours, they very rarely start conflicts with each other, preferring to coexist peacefully with their fellow Ishtari and often collaborating with them on these violent excursions.

Economy: The economy of the Ishtari is primarily based upon livestock, light agriculture in some areas, and a complex bartering system that exists both within and between tribes. In addition, the Ishtari frequently raid those closest to them, such as the Roameni and the numerous groups of West African cereal farmers to the south. From these they take both goods and slaves, which are then incorporated into the Ishtari economy. Given their nomadic nature and ability to easily travel and survive in the relatively inhospitable Sahara desert, the Ishtari also are avid traders – what they take from one culture, they often sell to another (such as Yerida, and even Egypt), facilitating the flow of goods across the sands. Along the Atlantic coast, fish is the main source of both food and income as opposed to livestock.

Military: Unlike many African tribal cultures, the Ishtari military is relatively advanced (compared to other African tribes) due to their contact with the cultures of North Africa. Having learned of basic iron mining techniques from the Mediterranean, the Ishtari wield iron spears in battle, usually also armed with a small, circular shield. Slingers, utilizing rocks and specifically-crafted missiles, act as auxillary forces. Due to their experience at raiding, every Ishtari is expected to have at least basic knowledge of combat, and each tribe has a group of elite warriors (usually male) who form the core of any military force they can muster. Chieftains are often the bravest or most skilled warrior in their tribe, and are expected to lead their clan in battle. There are no gender restrictions with regards to fighting – although male warriors are more common than female ones, they are certainly present.

 

[Duke of Britain]

Armenian Kingdom (Placeholder name)​

Location: Southern Caucasus general area. With a strip of land in the Pontic coast to the Caspian. Basically all Qasbian lands in that region.

People and Society: Populous territory with a majoritarily rural population. Small urban centers spread across the Kingdom, with a larger ammount of urbanization in central Armenia, near the capital. Large amount of nomadic tribes live within the border, having been granted extensive rights by the Monarchs in exchange for certain obligations, such as supplying soldiers or guarding the roads.

Stratified society divided along several classes. System of slavery in place, slaves are usually indebted men and women or captured soldiers from enemy armies who are then used as housekeepers, although there are few slaves in society. Large amount of nobles, most of whom were renowed soldiers in service of the King who received lands seized from the Qasbians and other enemies.

Genetically, the Caucasians have intermarried with the Qasbians who fled the Paketae for generations. And although the old Qasbian elite was resented and been overthrown by the new Kingdom, the Qasbians form a very sizeable portion of the population. Other important ethnic groups are Albanians, Critheans near the Pontic coast, among other native populations in the Caucasus, many of whom possess different customs and culture.


Government: Recently created Kingdom led by a native Monarch who has overthrown the Qasbian elites. System of government largely influenced by the Ninowans to the south, with elements from native culture mixed in. The clergy is controlled by the Monarch and is essential in the running of the young and still inefficient country.

Taxes are often not collected. The bureaucratic procedures of the Qasbians were inherited by the new Kingdom, however proper administration still needs to be properly established along the Caucasus. Education is barely present, although the growth of the cities may change that. Nomadic tribes inside the borders are given great autonomy, such as freedom of movement, in exchange for a steady supply of soldiers who form most of the powerful light cavalry of the Kingdom and supply their own equipment.

Economy: Rich and productive rural economy. Small native merchant class due to the previous domination of the Qasbian elites, who have since then been driven out. Urbanization progresses slowly, although Royal effort has led to greater urbanization along the core royal territories in and near the capital. Ironworking and other technologies were mostly brought to the region by Ninowan merchants who sought influence and trade in the rich Kingdom.

Mining is present in the economy and quickly grows in importance. Artisans and blacksmiths are important elements of the urban economy and are the driving force behind the growth of the cities around the capitals, thanks in large part due to the demands of the Royal retinues. While the royal treasury is suffering due to the costs associated with maintaining a large number of heavily armoured troops when the state lacks a powerful urban economy or efficient taxation, that is likely to change as peace brings around a reorganization of the state.

Military: Mixed system of levies and Royal retinues. Most powerful cavalry in the Caucasus, represented by elite Cataphracts and half-cataphracts, both are heavily armoured and use expensive iron weapons and armour that protects both man and horse, the use of early variations of the stirrup make Armenian cavalry especially deadly, however due to the expensiveness of their maintenance, the Cataphracts are generally nobles who can pay for their own equipment or the best of the best of the Royal retinues who receive their armour directly from the Monarch. Light cavalry is used in the form of light lancers and mounted archers and forms a sizeable portion of the army, being drawn from semi-independent tribes within the borders.

Most of the army is composed by the levied infantry, who fight lightly armoured and armed with iron spears and simple shields. Swordsmen and javelineers are also present in the regular army, often lightly armoured like their spear-armed counterparts. The elite infantry are formed by the children of royal slaves, who are trained in loyalty and combat from infancy and, as part of the Royal retinues, boast heavy armour and spears or swords, and are more common than the far more costlier Cataphracts. Archers are an uncommon sight, although mercenaries from Judah are at times employed along with levy archers, who are armed with simple bows and arrows and do not possess enough expertise to compete with their professional counterparts from the south.

((Sorry, it is late and I had almost forgot to post this civ, so it was rushed. If allowed, I will edit its information tomorrow. Also, I will change the name to something more... dynastic, maybe.)

 

[alexander23]

The Arinne Confederation of tribes

Region: Northern Greek Tribes, along the border with Hatad

Religion: Qyxonism

The Arinne believe in a plethora of never ending gods. Everything have one and they usually take up the form of animals so we humans can observe them. Only females are accepted to be priestess as its deeply belived they hold the stronger connection to the gods.

The Arinne religion posses no temples, instead all worship is done in the forest by wathever mark the priestess think will connect to the gods more directly

Military:

The military forces of the Arinne usually wiled iron weapons and some sort of armor and are extremely skilled with the bow as its use as hunting tool since a young age. Interestingly men and woman serve in the armies of the tribes as equals, for the Gods decreed both must fight. Many of the great heroes have been females in fact.

Arinne females Priestess are feared in battle as they dring a mixture of herbs and mushrooms before it, entering a more connected stance to the gods, and a insatiable battle frenzy toring apart their enemies without care for their own safety.

Culture:

The Arinne like many tribes are dominated by the men, excep in the military where both are treated as equal warriors but usually led by males. The Priesthood warriors act as independant units and posses their own commanders.

The Arinne are deeply connected to tgehir religion and wuld not do anythng the gods forbid, for without their support nothing can ever work out well for the person do it it. As such the priesthood class posses a very influential role in the tribes.

 

[oxfordroyale]

Ishtari Religion and Mythology - Part I

The Creation of the World and the Twin Gods
​

According to the Ishtari faith, in the beginning there were only two deities who presided over the affairs of the world. These deities were Mahrel, the god of creation, and Gesa, the goddess of life. For countless years they worked side by side. Mahrel created a barren world, and Gesa populated it with all manner of life. But they were partners in love as well as creation, and from their union, brought into being two twin sons: Ish, the moon, and Jekh, the sun. Ish was wise, caring, and implacably calm, whereas his brother was in many ways his complete opposite, being arrogant, hotheaded, and spiteful. Ish embodied all the good of his parents, and Jekh all the evil - they were the gods of life and death, respectively.

An intelligent and avid inventor, Ish delighted in creating living beings and watching them as they flourished on the earth, far below him. By his hand, the vegetation and deep oceans of the earth were soon populated with all manner of creatures, from simple insects to complex animals. As he aged, and his playthings matured into works of genius, Ish was continually praised and favored by his parents for his intelligence and creativity. His prized creation was man, who Ish recognized as the smartest of all the mortal beings he had fashioned, and he devoted all his time to nurturing them and watching them grow. He would often descend from the heavens and walk upon their mortal plane to teach them new skills and practices. The Ishtari, a select group of men, were his prized and chosen people - in turn, they were the most devoted to him.

On the other hand, Jekh was never any good at creating things - only at breaking and destroying them. For this, he was constantly admonished and criticized by his parents, and encouraged to be more like his brother. Jekh developed an intense jealousy for his brother's natural talents and gifts, and soon he began plotting the destruction of all his brother held dear.

The Betrayal of Jekh and the Beginning of the Eternal Battle​

One fateful day, as Ish, Mahrel, and Gesa were walking upon the earth and tending to Ish's creations, Jekh finally set his plan in motion. Harnessing the power of his domain, the sun, he proceeded to unleash it upon the earth in a cataclysm of destruction. The sky turned to fire, the earth was scorched, and hundreds of Ish's creations suffered horrible, burning deaths. His own parents, Mahrel and Gesa, were both slain in Jekh's petty and jealous fury. Determined to halt Jekh's acts of destruction and evil on the behalf of man and all his creatures, Ish rose to meet his brother in his place in the sky and slay him. However, as they were twins and thus of equal power, neither Ish nor Jekh could overcome the other. Faced with impossibility of destroying his twin, Ish was forced to resort to the only option remaining to him. Calling upon the spirits of legendary Ishtari who he had deemed were worthy enough to ascend to the heavens (in the form of stars), Ish locked himself in an eternal battle with his brother.

Ish and the Stars rise to meet Jekh in battle
​

To this day, the sun and the moon battle for supremacy in the sky as the living beings of the world watch from far below. At night, Ish and his starry legion manage to temporarily gain the upper hand, yet during the day it as all they can do to avoid decimation by Jekh. This is a war to be fought until the end of time - only then will the fight be decided by one side or the other.

 

[Noco19]

Skerling Mythology​

The Rise of the Haever​

Following the general failure of the Skerling tribes to push deep into the southern lands of the Celts, Skerling society would ultimately change. Having firstly lost the blessing of Winter, and now seemingly without the blessings of any gods, the Skerling now shifted blame unto themselves; a period of introspection would follow. From this came two major events - the strengthening of the petty kings and the addition of a new caste in Skerling society, the Haever, of which is our main topic.

Their name roughly equating to "Loud thunder", the Haever arose as devotees of the divine, oftentimes associated with a single, favorite deity. What sets them apart from other contemporary priest classes however is the method in which they showed such devotion - through song. Haever were skilled in Skerling song, which in actuality could be better described as extremely loud chants, moans, and unintelligible noises. Nevertheless, the effect on such has been recorded and portrayed as utterly inspiring for the Skerling, who believed that even the gods could hear their song, and horribly frightening for any opposing force, the volume suggesting a grand assembly of men, not a single loud one.

The Haever would find themselves to be quite prestigious, and could be found in a king's feast or the battlefield itself. Records suggest that to have in your employ or company a Haever was a sign of success and piety. Interestingly, the Haever themselves were a very diverse group, not all from a similar background. Accounts range from mystics, to administrators, to veterans in comparison, and the only true requirements were having a naturally loud voice and a devotion to the gods. This has provided historians many differing stories and adventures dealing with various legendary Haevar, oftentimes found inscribed on the strange totems they erected, from Ruffis Three-Eyes to Finner the Short and Mad.

 

[XVG]

Amard
Ninowan-Lydian military colony in the Peleponnese

​

The son of Akad, Phratas, continued his father’s policy of settlement of Ninowan veterans, the number of whom continued to dwindle, with Lydians to form garrisons to watch over the conquered populations. One of such settlements was Amard, founded to overlook the Mycenaean tribes living in the hinterlands of the Peloponnese. In rugged mountainous terrain, Amard acted as a beacon of civilization. The new Ninowan-Lydian upper class preached culture, while traders and merchants from Syria and Judea kept arriving to the city, reviving some of the trade links of the Ninowan era. And the expansion of the Akadian Kingdom also helped the economy of the region, giving it a necessary boost. Amard happened to overlook several precious wine plantations, but of more importance were the mines around it. Silver and other precious metals were of high importance to the metalworking Ninowan class and the Lydians. Abundance in metals would lead to a major advancement in Akadia, one which would have important effects on the whole Mediterranean sphere.

 

[Arrowfiend]

A Brief History of Rulers of Late Iron Age Drupada
​

Tanay "the Wise" (357-341 BCE) - Following the conquests of the 4th and 5th centuries BCE, Drupada slowed down its expansion. Rulers instead began to look inward to stabilize their large North-Indian empire. This mindset is exemplified by the Ṭā'igara Spīkara Tanay, who ruled between 357 and 341 BCE. Nicknamed "the wise," Tanay was a skilled and thorough administrator who expanded the otherwise lackluster bureaucracy in the newly conquered territories. In addition, he divided up Drupada into six provinces to further aid bureaucratic matters. In 342, he grew ill and by 341 he was dead of malaria.

Ekansh "the Cruel" (341-335 BCE) - After the death of Tanay, the Council of High Priests elected Ekansh as the next Ṭā'igara Spīkara. Later called "the cruel," Ekansh's rule would nearly prove disastrous to the Drupadan empire. Although the eastern provinces of Gajipura, Bhila'i, and Nepala already shared cultural similarities to the capital territory of Gandama, the western territories of Lothal and Deraduna were much more culturally distinct. Rather than tolerating the conquered peoples, Ekansh persecuted those who did not follow Rameshism (the religion of Drupada). This led to unrest throughout Drupada that could have broken the empire completely apart were it not for Ekansh's timely assassination by a foreign noble from Lothal.

Mahat "the Tiger" (335-297 BCE) - While Ekansh was widely disliked, the assassination of a Ṭā'igara Spīkara was unprecedented. His death would incite open revolt in Lothal, Deraduna, and parts of Gajipura and Bhila'i. In a hasty election, the young High Priest Mahat was chosen as the next Ṭā'igara Spīkara. Despite his inexperience, Mahat quickly set into action, organizing an army to fight the rebels. Although the fighting would last for more than two years, Mahat would eventually be victorious and bring the rebellious territories back under the Drupadan fold. In an act of mercy, Mahat would spare all of the rebels, allowing them to return to their homes and families. In addition, he began enacting policies to prevent persecution of other religions. At the end of his reign, he would, with his power as a religious leader, fundamentally change Rameshism. Under his new set of Rameshite codes, it was stated that Ramesh was the god of all lesser gods. The "lesser gods," which were the gods of the various peoples of Northern India, were free to be worshiped on the condition that people recognized Ramesh as the highest god.This act would pave way for a period of religious harmony and ultimately change the course of Indian history. After a reign of almost three decades, Mahat would die of old age in 297, known as "tiger," after the tiger god Ramesh.

 

[oxfordroyale]

Ishtari Religion and Mythology – Part II​

The Structure of the Clergy​

Due to the integral role of religion in Ishtari society (“Ishtari”, in their language, literally means “people of Ish”), each tribe has its own formal clergy with clearly defined and influential functions within the tribe. The Ishtari clergy is a structured hierarchy consisting of four distinct tiers, which are listed below:

Ish’al

The Ish’al, or “children of Ish”, are the lowest tier of the Ishtari clergy. As their name would suggest, the Ish’al are typically quite young, their ages ranging from early childhood to early adolescence. Their ranks are comprised of girls and boys who, through various means, have been chosen by clergyman to become holy servants of Ish. Many Ish’al are from poor families, while many more are orphans who have nowhere else to go and no other way to survive. They are educated in theology and given knowledge of the faith by their superiors in the clergy, the Ishra. From the time they are adopted to when they reach adulthood (around age fifteen), they are taught the basic tenants of the Ishtari religion and trained to become Ishra upon their “graduation”. It is during this time, when their minds are the most malleable, that the clergy choose to indoctrinate their future members.

Ishra

The Ishra, or “apprentices of Ish”, are the second lowest tier of the Ishtari clergy, and are comprised almost entirely of younger adults. Besides being the principal recruiters and teachers of the Ish’al, the Ishra also act as aides and apprentices of their elders, the Ishnan. Being former Ish’al themselves, they possess a sufficient level of theological knowledge to conduct basic ceremony and rites. Ishra often serve at least a decade before they are deemed worthy, experienced, or knowledgeable enough to ascend to the next tier.

Ishnan

The Ishnan, or “men of Ish”, are the middle tier of the Ishtari clergy, and by far the largest. The ages of their members range from late twenties or early thirties to fifty years old or more. Almost all clergymen become Ishnan and never ascend to the highest rank, remaining Ishnan for the remainder of their lives. Ishnan, despite not being of the highest tier, are fully-fledged members of the clergy and are often considered voices of piety and wisdom in whichever tribe they are a part of. They are considered to be incredibly knowledgable in matters of faith and the worship of Ish, and can recite Ishtari myths by heart. Many of them serve as religious advisers to prominent Ishtari, and they perform the majority of the religious rituals and ceremonies of their tribe.

Ishval

The highest tier of the Ishtari clergy, and by far the smallest, the Ishval, or “voices of Ish”, act as the highest authorities in spiritual matters in Ishtari society, and are considered those clergymen most in tune with the Holy One and his will. Ishval are typically quite elderly, and there is never more than one per tribe. Ishval almost always act as the principal spiritual advisor for a tribe’s chieftain, as well as a voice of wisdom. They are considered experts in religious matters, and their rulings are beyond reproach.In the event of an Ishval’s death, his designated successor (always an Ishnan) is elevated to his former position.

An Ishval praying as the sun sets, lending support to Ish in his battle
​

Spoiler: Orders

Order 1: Invade the Roameni Kingdom as (relatively) unified force, emerging without warning from the sands of the Sahara with the aim to conquer the lands of North Africa, so much richer than our own. We must spread both the will of Ish, the Holy One, and us, his chosen people. Enslave captured Roameni and subjugate their settlements, driving all the way to the Mediterranean coast.

Order 2: Begin to move from a nomadic lifestyle towards the more settlement-oriented lifestyle that can already be found along the western coast of the Sahara. No longer shall the Ishtari be forced to wander the near-inhospitable desert, at the mercy of weather and seasonal grazing. We shall move to more habitable lands in the north and, after it has been taken from its weak, native peoples, we shall populate and settle it ourselves.

​

 

[DensleyBlair]

On the Separation of Powers in the Elenic Republic

The Executive​

Executive magistrates in Elenìou served as various heads of state during the republic. Each was vested with imperium to some degree, and enjoyed various honours perforce of holding office – for example, a personal retinue and the right to certain types of dress. Although vested with imperium, each was to some extent accountable to the branches of the legislature, being elected by them and acting predominantly on their resolutions.

Légestor

An extraordinary magistrate elected jointly by the tribunes in times of crisis, therefore indirectly elected. He served a six-month term, which could be renewed by a unanimous decision of the tribunes – though this was seldom necessary. Sicani: one who dictates.

Arkhos ippoi

The légestor's lieutenant, charged with the active leadership of the military for the duration of a term of legestion. Appointed by the légestor, therefore indirectly elected. Sicani: Master of the Horse.

Aiótus

One of two ordinary magistrates who exercised executive power vicariously. Each was elected directly by the people of the republic, serving a one-year term. Each also held the power of arévo over the other, and could therefore only rule when in agreement. This was the penultimate stage of the karos graphèkoi, or "course of offices". An aiótus served jointly with his colleague throughout his term as supreme commander of the forces, chairman of the Eklisos and the ultimate judicial authority of the republic. His decisions could be overridden only by an arévo from his colleague, or from the arkhos idiōton. Sicani: he hears.

Samàstos

The final stage of the karos graphèkoi, the samàstos was elected by the people for a term of two years – unique in this aspect. He was a former aiótus who was responsible for the apportioning of citizens into classes by carrying out a census, as well as holding control over the duties of each class. Sicani: he assesses.

Paràchtor

One of around eight magistrates elected annually by the people of the city of Elenìou. A paràchtor was responsible for serving various judicial and governmental functions throughout the republic and was engaged most often in criminal trials. He also held an arévo over the decisions of the courts of Elenìou. Sicani: one who takes care (i.e. of justice.)

The Legislature​

The three bodies of the legislature in the Elenic constitution were each responsible for the creation of laws, the election of magistrates and the trial of judicial cases relevant to the class to which each body was accountable. Each body was represented by an arkhos, or tribune, who was elected from the members of the body to guard the rights of his class. A tribune held sacrosanctity, though not imperium, and could pass an arévo over the actions of any other magistrate, save the aiótes, where it was felt they harmed their class.

The freemen of Elenìou who were not patricians of a genè were the idiōtes, and represented in the Komithia Idiōton. Their tribune was the arkhos idiōton. Patricians, meanwhile, sat in the Eklisos, more fully the Eklisos Genèvoi, and were represented by the arkhos arìstoi. The military were represented in the legislature by the Komithia Legìoi and had their spokesman in the arkhos strativoi.

~ ~ ~​

The holders of these offices were controlled theoretically by the karos graphèkoi, though this system began to deteriorate during[...]