The Kingdom of Qet
The Kingdom of Qet stands as a bastion of tradition, a land shaped by chivalric ideals, unwavering faith, and a deep reverence for the natural order of life and death. Nestled between the fertile Vales, the imposing Vale Mountains, and the glistening Gulf of Thalrion, Qet’s geography mirrors its dual nature: a realm of beauty and serenity, tempered by the demands of conflict and vigilance.
At its heart lies Valeheart, a city of soaring spires, cobbled streets, and the indomitable Citadel of Valeheart, where the House of Aldevar has ruled for generations under the divine mandate of the Twelve. As the political and cultural center of the kingdom, Valeheart symbolizes the resilience and authority that define Qet, standing as a beacon of stability amidst an ever-changing world.
Qetish society is shaped by the interplay of strength and grace, the harmony of duty and devotion. Knights, bound by the ancient Code of Chivalry, pledge their swords to defend the kingdom, embodying virtues of loyalty, courage, and sacrifice. Beneath the banners of noble houses, the people of Qet adhere to a strict social hierarchy, where each soul has a place and a purpose. While tradition remains the bedrock of Qetish identity, whispers of transformation have begun to stir in the kingdom’s halls and fields.
Few changes have been as profound as those sparked by the Pact of Thalmyris with Viranue and the subsequent Return of the Daughters. These women, trained in the Art of the Hunt and influenced by Viranue’s matriarchal philosophies, have challenged long-standing norms, reshaping ideas of service and leadership in Qet. Their influence is most visible in progressive regions like the capital and the western borders, where their strength and discipline have earned respect even amidst resistance from more conservative parts of the kingdom. Though Qet remains rooted in patriarchal customs, these changes have planted the seeds of a gradual cultural shift.
Qet’s strength lies in its unwavering faith and its resilience against external threats. The knights of the realm stand vigilant along its borders, their exploits immortalized in the songs and stories that unite its people. The alliance with Viranue has bolstered Qet’s defenses, blending the swift precision of skilled hunters with the steadfast might of Qetish arms. Together, these forces form a resolute shield against the looming shadow of the Kirtothian Empire and the wild chaos of the Frostwilds.
In Qet, honor is the highest currency, and faith is the foundation of all endeavors. Whether in the hallowed halls of Valeheart or the sunlit fields of the Golden Vale, its people strive to embody the virtues of the Twelve. It is a kingdom of contrasts—where tradition meets transformation, and where the strength of its warriors and the cunning of its hunters forge a legacy for the future. Qet stands not only as a land of beauty and order but as a testament to the enduring will of its people to protect what they cherish and adapt to what must come.
Structure
The Kingdom of Qet is a feudal monarchy, blending divine mandate, noble hierarchy, and evolving societal norms. Governed by the House of Aldevar, the monarchy derives its authority from the blessings of the Twelve, who are revered as the divine patrons of the realm. Power is carefully distributed among the noble families, the Church of the Twelve, and the Royal Council, maintaining a balance between tradition and adaptability that ensures the kingdom’s stability and resilience.
The Monarch
The monarch, currently King Edryth Aldevar IV, stands as the supreme authority in Qet, overseeing matters of law, military strategy, and diplomacy. As the embodiment of divine favour and the protector of the realm, the monarch unites the kingdom’s territories under a shared chivalric code that reinforces loyalty and honour. Advised by the Royal Council, the monarch’s decisions are shaped by the combined insights of the crown, the nobility, and the Church, ensuring governance remains cohesive across Qet’s diverse regions.
The Royal Council
The Royal Council serves as the central advisory body to the monarch, comprised of high-ranking nobles, military leaders, and clergy. Each member plays a vital role in shaping the kingdom’s governance. The High Chancellor oversees the administration of Qet, acting as the key coordinator between the crown and the noble houses. The Marshal of Qet commands the Royal Army and develops defensive strategies in collaboration with feudal lords. The High Priest of the Twelve represents the Church’s spiritual authority, ensuring that governance aligns with religious doctrine and moral principles. Reflecting the influence of Viranue, the recently created position of Mistress of the Hunt brings new perspectives to the council. This role, held by one of the Viranue-trained daughters, advises on matters of border security, covert operations, and progressive reforms. Together, the Royal Council navigates the delicate balance between tradition and evolving societal dynamics, maintaining unity and stability throughout the kingdom.
Noble Hierarchy
At the heart of Qet’s governance lies its feudal system, which relies on the loyalty and service of noble families sworn to the crown. These families are organized into distinct ranks, each with defined responsibilities that uphold the kingdom’s structure. Dukes and Duchesses govern vast territories, managing regional defenses and overseeing baronies within their domains. Barons and Baronesses administer smaller regions, raising local levies and ensuring taxes are collected to support the kingdom’s needs. Knights and lesser nobles serve as local enforcers, defenders, and administrators, fulfilling both governance and military roles under their lords. Bound by their oaths of fealty, the nobility is entrusted with the maintenance of their lands and troops, as well as the preservation of Qet’s values of honour, loyalty, and chivalry.
Church of the Twelve
The Church of the Twelve serves as both the spiritual cornerstone and a powerful institution within Qet. It legitimizes the monarchy’s divine mandate and shapes the moral fabric of society, guiding the people through its teachings. High-ranking clergy act as advisors to both nobles and the crown, fostering unity across the kingdom and overseeing the education of future leaders. While the Church often acts as a conservative force, resisting rapid societal change, it also maintains the religious cohesion that underpins Qet’s governance and cultural identity.
Culture
The people of Qet live by traditions rooted in chivalry, devotion, and a deep connection to their land. For centuries, their society has been guided by ideals of honour and loyalty, shaped by the exploits of knights, the teachings of the Twelve, and the belief that every individual contributes to the kingdom’s grand design. These values permeate Qetish life, shaping identity and interactions with the wider world.
At the heart of Qetish culture lies the Code of Chivalry, which governs the behaviour of knights and nobles. Honour, courage, and duty are upheld not only on the battlefield but also in daily life. Nobles are expected to act as stewards and protectors of the land, while commoners see their work—whether farming, crafting, or trading—as essential to the realm’s prosperity. This shared commitment fosters unity, even within a hierarchical society.
Religion plays a central role, with the Church of the Twelve serving as a cornerstone of daily life. Shrines and temples dedicated to the Twelve gods are found throughout the kingdom, offering places of worship, moral instruction, and community gathering. The virtues of the Twelve—such as wisdom, justice, and strength—guide personal and governmental decisions alike. Festivals honouring the Twelve punctuate the year, celebrating divine blessings and fostering unity. However, the Church also acts as a bastion of conservatism, resisting societal changes inspired by Viranue and reinforcing traditional roles, particularly among the nobility.
Daily life in Qet revolves around community and shared purpose. The fertile Vales provide abundant resources, while bustling markets and workshops in cities like Valeheart highlight the kingdom’s vibrant culture. Craftsmen, farmers, and merchants take pride in their contributions to the realm’s strength. Social gatherings—be they festivals, jousts, or feasts—reinforce bonds and celebrate shared values of honour and faith.
To outsiders, Qetish people may seem proud and insular, fiercely protective of their traditions. Yet, they offer hospitality and aid readily to those in need. Their unwavering adherence to honour and loyalty makes them reliable allies, though their mistrust of deception and opportunism can lead to friction with more pragmatic cultures. In Qet, promises are sacred, oaths unbreakable, and betrayal the gravest sin.
This blend of tradition, faith, and emerging change defines the people of Qet. Rooted in history but adapting to new realities, they strive to uphold the ideals that have guided them through centuries of trials and triumphs.
Gender Roles
Qet remains a patriarchal society, but change is underway. The Return of the Daughters and the influence of Viranue introduced ideas that challenge traditional norms. Women trained in the Art of the Hunt have proven their strength, discipline, and leadership, earning respect in progressive regions like the capital and western borders. These shifts have triggered a slow but undeniable transformation in gender roles.
Among commoners, young women have begun serving as soldiers, much like their male counterparts. This represents a notable shift in the lower classes, where rigid hierarchies are less impactful in daily life.
Among the nobility, the changes are even more pronounced. Women now serve as knights, soldiers, and leaders, and discussions of transitioning to absolute primogeniture—allowing the eldest child, regardless of gender, to inherit—are gaining traction. Resistance persists, particularly in conservative regions, but the growing influence of Viranue-trained daughters and progressive ideals points to a kingdom balancing tradition and transformation.
The Role of Slavery
Slavery is strictly forbidden in Qet, as it is considered antithetical to chivalric ideals. The enslavement of beings capable of honourable conduct violates the kingdom’s core values. However, Orcs and Goblins are regarded as monsters, with the expectation that they be exterminated rather than enslaved. This harsh view reflects the kingdom’s uncompromising stance towards those deemed threats to its moral and social order.
History
The history of the Kingdom of Qet unfolds as a rich tapestry of unity, tradition, conflict, and transformation, shaped by its leaders, institutions, and cultural shifts over the centuries.
In 950 CE, King Eryndor Aldevar I founded the Kingdom of Qet, uniting the fertile Upper and Golden Vales under a single crown. The construction of the Citadel of Valeheart symbolized the kingdom’s identity and royal authority. A century later, Qet expanded its influence but faced conflicts with neighbouring tribes. King Aldevar established a noble hierarchy, solidifying alliances through grants of land and fostering courtly traditions such as jousts and arranged marriages.
The 12th century heralded the Age of Valor, marked by the rise of chivalric values and the creation of the Knights of Valeheart, devoted to defending the realm and upholding honour. The Church of the Twelve grew in prominence, spreading its influence through shrines across Qet. In 1134, the College of Valeheart was established, attracting scholars and mages, enhancing Qet’s reputation as a cultural and intellectual beacon.
As Qet entered the late 12th and early 13th centuries, it faced external threats from the western kingdom of Martok, leading to the construction of fortresses and the rise of the Order of the Silver Lance, known for their mastery of open-field warfare. The Pact of Thalmyris in 1240 marked a significant alliance with Viranue, securing naval and land defense and sending noble daughters to train in Viranue, a move that would challenge Qet’s patriarchal norms upon their return.
In 1255, the trained daughters returned, bringing leadership and combat skills that gradually reshaped societal roles. Though met with resistance in conservative regions, their influence led to the creation of the all-female Order of the Shield and began to erode traditional gender roles, inspiring slow but significant reform. Martok's fall to the Kirtothian Empire in 1273 placed Qet in direct confrontation with a powerful adversary, solidifying its alliance with Viranue.
The period from 1325 to 1550 saw gradual cultural shifts as female warriors gained acceptance in progressive regions, though conservative areas resisted. By 1720, societal change became more pronounced, with exceptional women being admitted to knightly orders and some noble families prioritizing daughters’ training. In the neglected southern frontiers, the grassroots Daughters of Qet movement emerged, protecting communities from raiders and challenging traditional hierarchies.
By 1741, female knights are respected in progressive areas, though their acceptance remains contentious in conservative regions. The Sentras of Qet operate outside formal recognition, emphasizing action over titles. As cultural transformation continues, Qet remains a kingdom shaped by the interplay of tradition, reform, and resilience, reflecting its complex and evolving identity.
Military
The military serves as a unifying force, fostering loyalty to the crown and the Twelve. Stories of knightly valour and sacrifice are celebrated in Qetish culture, inspiring service and devotion to the kingdom. The integration of Huntresses and Viranuean-trained daughters is gradually reshaping societal perceptions.
Role in Society
The military of Qet is deeply embedded in its cultural identity, symbolizing honour, chivalry, and service to both the kingdom and the Twelve. Its primary functions include defending the kingdom’s borders, protecting its people, and maintaining internal stability through a feudal system of noble levies and standing forces. Military service, particularly within the knightly orders, is a prestigious path for the nobility and a rare opportunity for social advancement among commoners. While the institution remains rooted in patriarchal traditions, the influence of Viranue and the Return of the Daughters has introduced gradual but undeniable changes.
Leadership
- The King: Supreme leader of both the military and the kingdom, the King embodies the divine will of the Twelve, commanding ultimate authority across all branches of the military and governance.
- Marshal of Qet: Commands the Royal Army and organizes defensive strategies in collaboration with feudal lords.
- Admiral of Qet: Oversees naval operations, ensuring coastal defense and coordinating with Viranuean forces to secure trade routes.
- Generals: Lead military forces within each duchy, coordinating local defenses and levies.
- High Commanders: Leaders of knightly orders, directing their formations during battle.
- Captains: Command smaller units or specific formations within the military hierarchy.
Military Composition
- Knights of Qet: The cornerstone of Qet’s military strength, embodying the ideals of chivalry and honour. Knights serve in diverse capacities, including household knights sworn to noble houses, members of elite orders like the Knights of Valeheart and Knights of the Shield, and independent knights seeking personal glory or unique roles across the kingdom.
- Huntresses of Qet: A sisterhood of elite hunters and skirmishers originally trained by the Reginae of Viranue. Experts in ambush tactics, reconnaissance, and stealth, they complement Qet’s traditional knightly forces. Female scouts under their banner are increasingly common in progressive regions.
- Esquires: Knightly trainees serving as attendants and learning the code of chivalry, preparing to uphold Qet’s traditions in the future.
- Longbowmen: Elite archers trained to deliver devastating volleys, particularly effective in defensive engagements.
- Crossbowmen: Precision marksmen valued for their powerful ranged attacks, especially in sieges.
- Pavisers: Shield-bearers who protect archers and crossbowmen, exemplifying discipline and teamwork.
- Foot Soldiers: The backbone of Qet’s military, composed of infantry armed with spears, swords, and shields. They support knights and hold the line in large-scale battles.
- Gynours: Skilled engineers responsible for operating siege engines and constructing fortifications, vital to the kingdom’s defensive and offensive capabilities.
- Sentras of Qet: A grassroots movement inspired by knightly traditions, composed of women operating independently to defend neglected regions, particularly in the south.
- Combat Mages: Powerful spellcasters trained to wield destructive magic on the battlefield. Their mastery of elemental forces and arcane arts enables them to devastate enemy ranks, destroy fortifications, and turn the tide of battles. Often deployed alongside knights and infantry, they are viewed as both a weapon and a symbol of Qet’s cultural refinement and intellectual prowess.
- Combat Healers: Skilled practitioners of restorative magic, trained to mend wounds, cure ailments, and sustain morale during battle. Drawn from both the Church of the Twelve and secular schools of healing, they ensure the kingdom’s forces can endure prolonged campaigns. Their presence is a vital component of Qet’s strategy, as they embody the kingdom’s dual commitment to strength and compassion.
Tactics and Strategy
- Defensive Focus: Qet prioritizes fortifications and strategic defense, relying on strongholds along the Vale Mountains and northern borders to repel invasions.
- Chivalric Combat: Qetish knights are famed for disciplined formations and heavy cavalry charges that break enemy lines, embodying a battlefield ethos of honour and tradition.
- Integrated Forces:
- The inclusion of Huntresses and Viranuean-trained women has introduced guerrilla tactics, ambushes, and precision strikes.
- Female scouts enhance communication and supply lines, particularly along the western borders.
Duty, Unity, Faith
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