The Empire of Yeoria
Government
The Chosen Empress
At the apex of Yeoria’s government is the Chosen Empress, a figure of absolute authority and revered as near-divine by her people. Empress Lora, the current ruler, embodies wisdom, strength, and compassion. Her primary role is to protect the Empire from external threats and to intervene in internal disputes only when necessary, ensuring the stability and unity of the realm. While her power is absolute, she exercises it judiciously, often preferring to let local governance handle day-to-day affairs.Empirical Mandates
The Empress enforces Empirical Mandates—laws that apply universally across the Empire, superseding regional laws. These mandates are designed to maintain a coherent and fair market and economy, and to protect the rights of Yeoria’s citizens. They ensure that despite the diverse cultures and traditions within the Empire, a unified legal framework is maintained.Regional Autonomy
Yeoria is divided into various kingdoms, states, and provinces, each with a high degree of autonomy in their internal governance. These regions are allowed to maintain their unique customs, laws, and governance structures as long as they adhere to the overarching principles and mandates of the Empire. This decentralized approach fosters a sense of independence and pride among the regions, while still binding them to the greater unity of Yeoria.The Council of Advisors
The Empress is advised by a Council of Advisors, a group of esteemed individuals chosen for their wisdom, experience, and loyalty. This council includes representatives from the major regions, scholars, military leaders, and other influential figures. They provide insights and counsel on matters of state, helping the Empress to make informed decisions. The council meets regularly to discuss issues facing the Empire and to propose solutions.The Assembly of Representatives
Each region within Yeoria elects representatives to the Assembly of Representatives, a body that serves as a conduit between the local populations and the central government. The Assembly debates and discusses policies, proposed laws, and other matters of importance. While the final decision rests with the Empress, the Assembly’s role is to ensure that the voices of all regions are heard and considered.Industry & Trade
In the Yeorian Empire's economy and society, the concept of "usefulness" permeates every aspect of life, creating a culture where poverty and homelessness are virtually non-existent. The system's emphasis on reciprocal exchange ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and receive what they need in return. Here's how this system would further prevent poverty and homelessness while fostering a community that values every individual's contributions:
Day-to-Day Exchange and Bartering
- Immediate Needs Fulfilled: In Yeoria, if someone finds themselves in need—whether it's food, shelter, or clothing—they can offer their skills or labor in exchange. This might be as simple as sweeping a porch for a meal, repairing a fence for a night’s stay, or offering to tend a garden in exchange for clothing. The culture encourages this sort of exchange as a temporary solution to immediate needs, ensuring that no one goes without basic necessities.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: The system is designed to be flexible. A person might not have a specific trade or skill, but they can still offer their time and effort in exchange for goods and services. This adaptability allows people to quickly find ways to be useful, even if their traditional means of livelihood are disrupted.
Social Safety Net and Community Support
- Community Chests and Storehouses: Many cities and villages maintain community chests or storehouses filled with surplus goods. These resources are available to those who need temporary assistance, ensuring that no one falls into poverty. People who contribute to these chests earn respect and recognition in the community, reinforcing the culture of mutual aid.
- Support for Transitions: For those who are new to a community or who have fallen on hard times, there are systems in place to help them get back on their feet. Temporary shelter, food, and even tools for work are made available to help individuals regain their footing and re-establish themselves as useful members of society.
Cultural Beliefs and Values
- Strong Belief in Usefulness: In Yeoria, being "useful" is not just a matter of survival; it is a core value that shapes one’s identity and self-worth. The belief that everyone has something to contribute means that people are always encouraged to find ways to be useful, whether through skilled labor, creative pursuits, or even simple acts of service. Those who do not contribute or refuse to engage in the exchange system are looked down upon, as they are seen as rejecting the values that hold the society together.
- Honor and Reputation: A person's reputation is deeply tied to their willingness to contribute. Those who consistently engage in the barter system and fulfill their promises are honored and respected. Conversely, those who are perceived as “useless” or who seek to take without giving back are likely to be ostracized or marginalized, as they violate the cultural norms of reciprocity and mutual respect.
Mechanisms to Prevent Exploitation
- Fair Exchange Practices: While the system allows for flexibility in how people exchange goods and services, there are cultural safeguards to prevent exploitation. For example, if someone offers to work for food and shelter, the value of their work is expected to be equivalent to what they receive. Overcharging or underpaying (in terms of goods or services) is frowned upon and can damage one’s reputation.
- Community Mediation: Disputes over fairness in exchanges are rare but can be mediated by community leaders or elders. These mediators ensure that all parties are treated fairly and that the spirit of mutual aid is upheld.
Encouragement of Social Mobility
- Opportunities for All: The usefulness economy naturally allows for social mobility. If someone has fallen on hard times, they can quickly regain their standing by offering their services. The system also encourages learning new skills, as being more versatile increases one’s usefulness and, therefore, their access to goods and services.
- Recognition of Diverse Contributions: The society values all forms of usefulness, whether it is through manual labor, artistic endeavors, or intellectual pursuits. This broad recognition ensures that everyone’s contributions are appreciated, and no one is left feeling undervalued.
Prevention of “Uselessness”
- Active Participation: The culture of Yeoria is one of active participation. Everyone is encouraged to find their niche, whether it's crafting, farming, teaching, or any other trade. The idea of someone being intentionally "useless" is not just socially unacceptable but is seen as a rejection of communal life.
- Rehabilitation and Reintegration: For those who struggle to find their place, there are systems in place to help them discover their usefulness. This might include apprenticeship programs, community workshops, or mentorship from experienced tradespeople. The goal is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute and be recognized for their efforts.
History
Much of Yeoria has adopted the culture and ideals established by and within Labrilen, some in part because of the laws imposed on them as part of their agreement to join the Empire.
But the western world is one plentiful in resources, natural beauty, and the original home of the Maia. When the Nakhasi Empire spread into their land, they were largely enslaved and considered exotic conquests, forced to work as servants, artisans, or sex workers. With the collapse of the Nakhasi Empire, they found themselves somewhat free, but still bound and controlled by the individual Kingdoms that coalesced after the Empire broke apart.
When the Empress of Yeoria began the Quiet Conquest, the Maian members of those Kingdoms began to rise up in revolt against the elite of their Kingdoms - inspired heavily by what is now considered to be an amalgamation of multiple figures made into one mythical hero, [Babalon]. One after another, the ruling members of the Kingdom found themselves either forced by their citizens to bend the knee to the Empress or to flee, leaving their lands and governance to the citizens, who would in turn request to be made part of Yeoria.
