Elmet
Elmet is a kingdom located in the north-central region of the island of Ynys. It is primarily inhabited by the Inisir who are known for their fierce independence and love of music and poetry. The kingdom is surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and several rivers, making it a prime location for agriculture and trade. Despite its relatively small size, Elmet is a force to be reckoned with, boasting a powerful military and a rich cultural heritage.
Structure
The kingdom of Elmet is ruled by the Brenin, who holds absolute power and is advised by a council of nobles. The council is made up of the most powerful and influential nobles in the kingdom, who advise the ruler on matters of state and help to govern the kingdom. The council also acts as a court of law, hearing cases and rendering judgments.
Below the council and the Brenin are the various lords and ladies who hold fiefs and estates within the kingdom. These nobles owe fealty to the ruler of Elmet and are responsible for maintaining law and order within their own lands. They also contribute troops and resources to the king or queen's army in times of war.
Culture
Elmet is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is heavily influenced by the Inisir's love of music and poetry. The kingdom is home to several bardic schools, which teach the Inisir's unique style of music and poetry. The Inisir also have a strong tradition of oral storytelling, and many of their greatest heroes and legends are preserved in song.
Assets
Elmet is a kingdom with abundant natural resources. The land is rich and fertile, with rolling hills and verdant forests that provide ample opportunities for agriculture and hunting. The kingdom is also home to several large rivers, which provide transportation and irrigation for the people of Elmet. Their most lucrative asset is their abundant iron deposits.
Elmet is also known for its skilled artisans, who produce high-quality goods such as iron goods, textiles, and jewelry. The kingdom is a center of trade and commerce, with merchants traveling from far and wide to do business in its bustling markets.
History
The current kingdom of Elmet is only a century old, but was inspired by a deeper history. It is named for the legendary kingdom of Old Elmet from just after the Age of Warlocks, founded by the Inisir hero Llywelyn. The current kingdom was brought together by the grandfather of the current Brenin, and took the name Elmet in honor of the legend and with the intent of living in the legacy of Llywelyn.
In recent years, Elmet has faced a number of challenges, including attacks from neighboring kingdoms and internal strife caused by rival factions within the ruling council. However, the people of Elmet remain determined to protect their kingdom and preserve their way of life, no matter what challenges may arise.
Demography and Population
Elmet's population is predominantly Inisir, with smaller populations of other ethnic groups, such as the Eot, Ðuring, and Biegen. The kingdom's population is concentrated in its major cities, such as the capital Caer Brenin. The population is largely rural, with most people working in agriculture or fishing. The kingdom's population is relatively young, with a high birth rate and low mortality rate.
Territories
The Kingdom of Elmet is located in the north-central area of the island of Ynys. It is bordered by the River Severin to the south and west, which forms a natural barrier between Elmet and its southern neighbors. Elmet's territory includes a mix of rugged hills, dense forests, and rolling plains, making it an ideal location for both agriculture and industry.
Military
The military of Elmet is comprised of both professional soldiers and levies raised from among the common people. The professional soldiers are typically knights, who are sworn to serve the Brenin and defend the kingdom against external threats. The levies, on the other hand, are typically farmers and craftsmen who are called up for military service during times of war. Elmet's military is well-trained and well-equipped, with a particular emphasis on archery and cavalry tactics.
Religion
Elmetian religion centers around the worship of the Ellyll. Elmetians also venerate their ancestors, whom they believe have the power to intercede with the gods on their behalf. It is a deeply personal and decentralized faith, with each individual free to worship in their own way. Relatively few of the gods of Elmet were bound by the Clarati, as they tended to have highly localized power bases and areas of interest.
Foreign Relations
Elmet's foreign relations are complex and varied, with the kingdom maintaining diplomatic relations with many of its neighbors, including the kingdoms of Dyfed, Mathrafal, and Cunedda. The kingdom also has a long history of conflict with the kingdom of Bernicia, and the kingdoms are considered rivals for power and influence across the island. Elmet maintains a neutral stance in the ongoing conflict between the kingdoms of Rheged and Deira to the north, but it has close cultural ties to both.
Laws
Elmet's legal system is based on the ancient laws of the Inisir, modified by Clarati influence from before the Age of Warlocks. These laws are enforced by the Brenin's court and are designed to ensure the safety and prosperity of the kingdom's inhabitants. The laws cover a wide range of subjects, including property rights, marriage and family, and criminal behavior. Punishments for offenses range from fines and imprisonment to execution, depending on the severity of the crime.
Agriculture & Industry
Agriculture and industry are both important components of Elmet's economy. The kingdom's fertile soil and favorable climate make it well-suited for growing crops such as wheat, barley, and oats. Livestock such as cattle, sheep, and pigs are also raised in large numbers. In terms of industry, Elmet has a thriving ironworking industry, thanks to the abundant iron ore deposits found in the kingdom's hills. Elmetian smiths are known for their skill in crafting weapons and armor, which are highly sought after throughout Ynys.
Education
Education is primarily reserved for the wealthy and privileged members of society. The education system in Elmet reflects this social stratification, with only the nobility and wealthy merchants having access to formal education. These individuals are typically taught by tutors or attend private schools, where they learn subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, and history.
For the rest of the population, education is mostly informal and passed down through apprenticeships and practical experience. Craftspeople, such as blacksmiths and carpenters, often train their apprentices in their trade, passing on the necessary skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their profession. Farmers also teach their children how to cultivate the land and raise livestock.
Saer yw ein gwerin (Our People Are Noble)
Maps
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Elmet
The kingdom's main exports are iron goods, wool, and grain. Elmetian iron goods, in particular, are highly prized throughout Ynys for their quality and craftsmanship. Elmet also exports surplus livestock and timber, both of which are abundant in the kingdom.
Elmet's legislative body is known as the Awenyddion, a council composed of representatives from the kingdom's various clans and noble families. The Awenyddion is presided over by the Gwarcheidwad, the head of the kingdom's military and chief law enforcer. The council meets regularly to discuss matters of governance, including taxation, trade, and defense. The Awenyddion has the power to pass laws and impose taxes, but its decisions can be vetoed by the Gwarcheidwad if he deems them harmful to the kingdom's security.
The judicial system of Elmet is headed by the Brenin's court, which is presided over by the Brenin, the king of Elmet. The Brenin's court hears both civil and criminal cases and has the power to impose fines and imprison offenders. Appeals can be made to the Awenyddion, which can overturn the Brenin's court's decisions if it deems them unjust. The Brenin's court is also responsible for interpreting the kingdom's laws and ensuring that they are enforced throughout the land.
The executive branch of Elmet is headed by the Brenin, who is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administration of the kingdom. The Brenin is advised by a council of ministers, each of whom is responsible for a specific area of governance, such as finance, defense, or foreign affairs. The Brenin also commands the kingdom's army and is responsible for maintaining its security and defending its borders.
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