Deshret
Structure
In place of the Pharaph sits a Vizier, chief administrator and vassal governor appointed by the suzerain Pharaoh in Kaheb. Responsible for the day-to-day governance of Deshret, the Vizier acts as the Pharaoh's eyes and ears, overseeing all government ministries and ensuring the smooth functioning of the state. Their duties include managing the treasury, directing public works, administering justice, and coordinating with provincial governors. The Vizier is second only to the Pharaoh in power and influence, and the success of Deshret often hinges on their competence and loyalty.
The pillars upon which the Vizier relies are the High Priests and the Generals.
- High Priests: These influential figures preside over the various cults and temples dedicated to the ancient gods. They wield significant religious and political power, advising the Pharaoh on matters of faith, interpreting divine will, and overseeing the vast temple estates. They ensure the continued favor of the gods, critical for the prosperity and well-being of Deshret.
- Generals: Commanding the armies of Deshret, the Generals are responsible for protecting the realm from external threats and maintaining order within its borders. They are skilled strategists and seasoned warriors, entrusted with the lives of Deshret's soldiers and the security of its territories. Their success on the battlefield is crucial for maintaining Deshret's power and prestige.
Supporting these key figures are a network of Nomarchs (Provincial Governors), Scribes, and Overseers.
- Nomarchs: Ruling over the various provinces of Deshret, the Nomarchs are responsible for collecting taxes, administering local law, and raising troops for the army. They act as the Pharaoh's representatives in their respective regions, ensuring the loyalty of the local population and the smooth flow of resources to the capital.
- Scribes: These highly educated individuals are responsible for recording information, managing official documents, and communicating the Pharaoh's decrees. They are the keepers of knowledge and the backbone of Deshret's bureaucracy, ensuring the efficient functioning of the government. Their meticulous record-keeping allows for effective administration and long-term planning.
- Overseers: A varied class of officials, Overseers are responsible for managing various aspects of Deshret's economy, from agriculture and trade to construction and mining. They ensure the efficient allocation of resources and the smooth operation of key industries, contributing to Deshret's prosperity and economic stability.
Finally, at the base of the pyramid, are the Artisans, Farmers, and Laborers, the backbone of Deshret's economy and the lifeblood of its society. While holding little direct political power, their labor fuels the kingdom's prosperity and allows the Pharaoh and his officials to maintain their power and prestige.
Culture
The heart of Deshret's original culture lay in its vibrant pantheon. Statues of jackal-headed gods and falcon-headed deities still stand in ancient temples, though they are now often overshadowed by grander shrines dedicated to Kaheb's patron god, Apedemak. Officially, the Deshreti gods are acknowledged as lesser deities, family to Apedemak. However, within homes and amidst the whispering sands, the old gods are far from forgotten. Prayers are offered in hushed tones, amulets depicting suppressed goddesses are worn beneath Kaheb-approved attire, and the ancient rituals, though clandestine, continue to bind the Deshreti people to their ancestral faith.
The artistic legacy of Deshret is undeniable. Intricate hieroglyphs tell stories of pharaohs and gods on temple walls, while delicate pottery and vibrant textiles showcase a mastery of craftsmanship. However, Kaheb employs its own artisans, trained in their own distinct style, to oversee construction projects and commissions. While Deshret’s artists are often employed, they are subtly guided towards celebrating the virtues of Kaheb and its ruling Pharaoh. This results in a hybrid aesthetic - familiar Deshret motifs are reimagined with Kaheb aesthetics, creating a visual reminder of the power dynamic at play. Grandiose structures, built in Kaheb’s style of imposing grandeur, loom over the more intimate, earth-toned architecture of Deshret, further emphasizing the empire's dominion.
The Kaheb imposed social hierarchy is designed to favor those who readily embrace their culture and serve their interests. Loyal Kaheb officials are rewarded with positions of power and influence, often at the expense of Deshreti nobles. However, whispers of dissent flow beneath the surface. Many Deshreti, particularly those connected to the remnants of the old royal families or the priesthood, quietly work to preserve their heritage. They meticulously document their history, pass down ancient skills, and subtly instill a sense of Deshreti pride in the younger generation. This silent resistance, though often dangerous, is crucial in keeping the flame of Deshret's identity alive.
Life in Deshret under Kaheb rule is a constant negotiation. Farmers till the land, reliant on the Iteru's life-giving waters, but face increased taxation levied by Kaheb administrators. Merchants trade in goods, but are often required to prioritize selling to Kaheb merchants and adhere to their imposed trade routes. Families find solace in the intimacy of their homes, clinging to their traditions and sharing stories of a time when Deshret was independent. Yet, even within their homes, the shadow of Kaheb looms. Their language is slowly being replaced by Kaheb’s tongue in official settings, and their children are educated in schools that promote Kaheb values.
Assets
The lifeblood of Deshret, like any nation, flows in streams of silver and gold. While Kaheb undoubtedly extracts tribute, Deshret's own mines and trade routes contribute significantly to its coffers. The fertile Iteru river valley, meticulously irrigated, yields bountiful harvests, creating surpluses for export. This agricultural prowess translates to a steady flow of revenue, vital for maintaining internal stability and funding its modest military.
Deshret's architectural heritage is a treasure in itself. Imposing sandstone structures, reminiscent of ancient temples and pyramids, dot the landscape. These buildings, though not on the scale of past glories, serve practical purposes as administrative centers, granaries, and, importantly, defensive strongholds. Small, well-maintained castles and fortified towns offer pockets of resistance against potential incursions, whether from Kaheb itself or desert raiders.
Military strength, though limited by its vassal status, is a key component of Deshret's assets. Its army likely consists of well-trained infantry, equipped with spears, shields, and bronze weaponry. Chariots, though expensive to maintain, would be a symbol of prestige and a valuable asset on the battlefield. Ships, essential for controlling the river and potentially engaging in coastal trade, are likely a smaller but strategically important part of its armed forces. The quality of these troops and equipment, and their leadership, would ultimately determine their effectiveness.
Horses, essential for cavalry and transportation, represent another valuable asset. Breeding and training skilled riders would be crucial for maintaining a mobile fighting force and facilitating communication across the vast, arid landscape. The availability and quality of horses would also impact trade and diplomacy, influencing Deshret's relationships with neighboring powers.
- Major Cities
- Mimedj 11,100
- Major Towns:
- Syuty 4,662
- Awak 1,212
345,626 in other towns and villages
7400 residents are itinerant or isolated
Claimed Land: 14,285.8 square miles
Developed Land: 2,055.2 square miles
Population Density: 26/sq.mi
- 14 Standing Fortifications
- 7 in Active use
- 7 ruined forts or castle
- 11 located in settled regions
- 3 located in remote/wilderness areas
Villages average 2.7 miles apart
Towns average 33 miles apart
Deshret supports 0 Universities
Comments