The Serell Ascendency

Overview

The Serell Ascendency is a militaristic and disciplined nation, renowned for its unwavering focus on martial prowess and strict regulation of magic. Ruled by the prestigious **House Serell**, from which the nation takes its name, the Ascendency stands as a bastion of order and strength in Boriel. Its rigid control over all aspects of life, including religion and arcane power, ensures stability at the cost of personal freedoms.
The **Arcane Ascendency**, a secretive organization within the nation, operates as both enforcer and regulator of magic, ensuring that arcane power serves the state alone.

History of the Ascendency

The Serell Ascendency was founded during a time of great unrest, as fractured kingdoms across the region fell to infighting and external threats. House Serell rose to prominence by uniting these lands under its banner, relying on discipline and military strength to forge a new order. The establishment of the **Arcane Ascendency** came shortly after, as the growing use of magic was deemed a potential threat to the Ascendency’s stability.
Major historical events include:

• **The Unification Wars**: A brutal series of conflicts where House Serell consolidated its power, defeating rival factions and cementing its authority.
• **The Edict of Arcane Regulation**: This foundational law established the Arcane Ascendency, forbidding unauthorized use of magic and setting the groundwork for the nation’s strict anti-magic stance.
• **The Battle of Danbeke's Walls**: A pivotal siege where the Ascendency’s discipline and superior fortifications repelled a coalition of invading forces.

Culture and Values

The Serell Ascendency values strength, discipline, and loyalty above all else. Every citizen is expected to contribute to the nation's prosperity, whether through military service, labor, or governance. Individual freedoms are secondary to the collective good, with personal achievements celebrated only when they serve the greater whole.

• **Training from Youth**: Children are introduced to physical training and discipline from a young age, fostering a culture of readiness and resilience.
• **Martial Pride**: Citizens take immense pride in their military traditions, and tales of heroic warriors are central to the Ascendency’s identity.
• **Loyalty to House Serell**: Loyalty to the ruling house is paramount, with betrayal seen as the gravest offense.

Religion

The Serell Ascendency permits worship and religious activities, provided they do not violate the nation’s strict laws on magic. Faiths aligned with order, strength, and protection are encouraged, while those associated with chaos or arcane power are banned.

• **Oversight**: Temples and religious leaders operate under the supervision of the state to ensure compliance with national laws.
• **Accepted Deities**: Gods of war, law, and protection are widely worshipped, often integrated into state ceremonies and military rituals.
• **Prohibited Practices**: Any religious activity involving unregulated magic or promoting rebellion is harshly punished.

Government and Leadership

The Serell Ascendency is a monarchy ruled by **House Serell**, with the current head being **King Randal Serell**. The king oversees both the military and civil administration, ensuring that all aspects of governance align with the Ascendency’s values.
The **Arcane Ascendency**, led by **Perrius De’Gore**, operates as an autonomous branch of the government. While nominally under the king’s authority, it wields significant influence, acting as the sole regulator of magical practices.

The Arcane Ascendency

The Arcane Ascendency is both feared and respected within the nation. Tasked with identifying and regulating magical talent, this organization ensures that arcane power serves the state rather than individual ambition.
Key aspects include:

• **Recruitment**: Individuals displaying magical potential are taken from their homes, often without explanation. While some return as trained mages, others disappear entirely.
• **Secrecy**: The operations and goals of the Arcane Ascendency remain hidden, even from other branches of the government.
• **Enforcement**: The Arcane Ascendency has the authority to investigate and punish unauthorized magic use, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to execution.

Military and Strategy

The Serell Ascendency’s military is among the most disciplined in Boriel. Soldiers are trained in endurance, precision, and teamwork, with a focus on maintaining order on the battlefield.

• **Knight Legions**: The elite core of the army, consisting of heavily armed and highly trained warriors.
• **Fortified Strongholds**: Strategic locations like Danbeke are designed to withstand prolonged sieges and act as military hubs.
• **Arcane Support**: While rare, mages from the Arcane Ascendency are occasionally deployed to provide magical assistance in critical battles.

Relations with Other Nations

The Serell Ascendency’s militaristic policies and anti-magic stance often create tension with neighboring realms. However, its strength and discipline command respect, making it a valued ally and a feared adversary.

• **Allies**: Nations that value order and strength often align with the Ascendency, forming pragmatic partnerships.
• **Enemies**: Magic-reliant or chaotic nations frequently clash with the Ascendency, both diplomatically and militarily.

Legacy

The Serell Ascendency’s legacy is one of resilience, discipline, and unyielding control. Its focus on martial prowess and regulated arcane power has ensured its dominance in Boriel, with House Serell and the Arcane Ascendency continuing to shape its future.

Neighboring Nations

• The Azmarian Republic