The Jarl

The Free Lands of Jarlstead, more commonly known as the Jarlands, are led by one hereditary individual aided by a board of advisors made up of four earned positions and one elected official. Though the youngest recognized civilization on the continent, its cultural and geopolitical significance cannot be overstated, making the position of Jarl an incredibly important one.

History

In the grand scope of things, it wasn't too long ago that the eight human kingdoms realized the necessity of a neutral ground. They were in dire need of some place all of them or just a select few could meet, negotiate and so on without fear of being on potential enemy grounds. When discussion of this need arose, military general and war hero Claus Delafontaine became outspoken in his desire to turn his land - the centralmost point on the continent - into this neutral ground. A meeting was established between the leaders of each of the kingdoms, as well as Claus, at his keep. He played the part of a gracious host but remained outspoken with his desires. Seeing the benefits of this new free and neutral area also being the continent's capital for trade, in addition to the benefits that the area had in terms of its central locale, it was agreed after three days of deliberation that Claus's rather expansive land would be recognized as the Free Lands of Jarlstead. A document, now known as the Treaty of the Free Lands, was signed by all in attendance, which included Claus as well as the eight individuals who each led one of the human kingdoms at that time. This included:

the Governor of Astovia
the Warlord of Bredon
the Grand Mage of Erudica
the King or Queen of Mirynd
the Risen Lord of Phoenix
the High King or Queen of Praedium
the Pharoah of Qilanna
the Emperor of Zurith

Notable Holders

Founded by Claus Delafontaine, the position of Jarl has always fallen to the firstborn son. He was succeeded by his eldest son, Cynric. However, during Cynric’s tenure as Jarl, there was a plague and only Corin, his third son, survived. He eventually succumbed to the same plague as the rest of his siblings, resulting in his eldest - though still very young - son Caine stepping into the position. Caine was not only the youngest Jarl but also the most vicious, and he began leading Jarlstead in a direction that Claus never intended. Before too much damage could be done, Caine was tragically assassinated by his younger brother Chadric. Chadric never forgave himself for what he was forced to do, and thus spent most of his time within the keep. The nation was better off without Caine, but it certainly didn’t prosper under Chadric’s rule. Eventually, Chadric’s only son Caedryn took over as Jarl, though he was the figurehead long before he officially took over. He didn’t have a difficult job having followed Caine and Chadric, but he still became one of the most loved and respected jarls in the history of the nation. He was the only Jarl to ever pass his crown before death, realizing when it was time for his son Caspian to take over. The Jarlands prospered under Caedryn, but they flourished under Caspian. Relationships with other nations were strengthened, trade was better than ever, more and more people began to flock to the Welcomed Wait. It was an incredible time. And then Caspian was slain in battle with an Orcish tribe, before his wife Serafina could give birth to a male heir. Thus, Caspian’s only child, a young girl, became the Jarl. Fortunately, Caedryn was still alive for the first couple years of her reign. He was able to guide her hand and teach her everything he knew, and instill within her the confidence to move forward despite the early negative reactions of the people at having a female leader. She worked hard but eventually earned their respect, and Jarlstead is beginning to prosper once again.

Status

In Effect

Creation

The Treaty of the Free Lands recognized Jarlstead as its own free nation apart from the eight human kingdoms, thus creating the rank of Jarl which was bestowed upon Claus Delafontaine.

Form of Address

Sir or Madame

Equates to

The Jarl is equivalent to the different kings, queens and similar leaders of the other nations within Zaemrios, such as the Warlord of Bredon or Grand Mage of Erudica.

Source of Authority

The position is hereditary, handed down to the eldest son of the previous ruler upon death or retirement. In the event that there is no son, then the eldest daughter will suffice.

Length of Term

Typically, the position was intended to be held until death. Only once in the nation's history did the Jarl pass his title on before passing, when Caedryn stepped aside to make way for his son Caspian, having known it was time for him to step away.

First Holder

Claus Delafontaine

Current Holders