Omored Court

The Omored Court of Varu is a unique governing body, notorious and celebrated in equal measure. Born out of the island nation's turbulent history, the Court is a coalition of former pirates, privateers, merchants, and adventurers who established a precarious yet enduring balance of power in the midst of the Morimyr Ocean.

Varu has become a melting pot of cultures, where the world’s outcasts, adventurers, and dreamers converge. Its bazaars are legendary, offering everything from exotic spices to ancient artifacts. The island's taverns echo with tales of the high seas, and its ports teem with vessels from every corner of the world.

Despite—or perhaps because of—its chaotic origins, the Omored Court has fostered a fiercely independent society. Varu is both a sanctuary and a proving ground for those who live by the sea’s unpredictable tides.

Historical Origins

Varu's central location in the ocean made it a prized waypoint for trade routes, and for centuries it was contested by the rival empires of Illeva and Akati, as well as merchant guilds, and pirate factions. None could hold it for long, as the wild Morimyr storms and the fiercely independent Varuans thwarted prolonged occupation.

The Omored Court was established after the Concord of Free Waters, a legendary summit of pirate lords and trade magnates who realized that shared governance offered more profit and stability than endless conflict. It was agreed that Varu would remain neutral territory, governed not by any single entity but by a council representing all significant seafaring interests.

Structure of the Court

The Omored Court functions as a fluid oligarchy. Membership is neither hereditary nor permanent; it is earned and maintained through influence, wealth, and a demonstration of power. The Court is composed of several key factions:

1. The Corsair Delegates: Representing the pirate crews that originally fought for Varu's independence, they maintain a rough-and-tumble approach to diplomacy. These delegates ensure that no nation attempts to dominate Varu and enforce the "Salted Law"—a loose code of conduct for all sea captains passing through Varu.
2. The Merchant Syndicates: Wealthy traders who use Varu as a neutral hub for commerce. They bring stability and financial acumen to the Court, advocating for policies that favor trade and infrastructure.
3. The Free Captains: Independent ship captains, ranging from privateers to explorers, who vote collectively on matters that impact the broader maritime community. They act as a counterbalance to the more entrenched factions.
4. The Keeper of Keys: A symbolic title held by a single figure, elected by the Court to manage Varu’s ports, docks, and customs. The Keeper of Keys is known for their neutrality and practical enforcement of trade laws.
5. The Whisper Tide: A shadowy group rumored to represent spies, smugglers, and other underworld elements. While their role is unofficial, their influence over the Court is undeniable.

Governing Principles

The Omored Court operates on principles of pragmatism and mutual benefit:

• Neutrality: Varu takes no side in any conflict. The Court enforces a strict policy of harboring no fleets larger than what can be justified for trade or personal protection.
• Free Trade: The island imposes minimal tariffs, attracting merchants and smugglers alike. However, profits are taxed to fund the Court and Varu’s defenses.
• The Salted Law: A loose maritime code that forbids slavery, piracy against ships flying Varuan colors, and any act that threatens the sanctity of Varu’s neutrality.

Challenges

The Omored Court’s rule is not without challenges:

• Foreign Threats: Both Oliria and Khorun have sought to claim Varu, sometimes through diplomacy, other times through force. The Court must constantly maneuver to maintain its independence.
• Internal Strife: The factions within the Court often clash over policy, resources, and influence, threatening to destabilize the fragile balance of power.
• The Wild Morimyr: The ocean itself remains a constant threat. Navigating its treacherous waters demands skill and courage, which limits the volume of trade that can safely reach Varu.

Type

Government, Leadership

Subsidiary Organizations

• Varu - The Island Nation