Autonomy of Kingdoms
Law of Sovereign Rule
Each kingdom shall maintain its own sovereignty, with the right to govern its people, establish laws, and regulate its internal affairs. The King, or ruling monarch, holds ultimate authority within the kingdom’s borders, provided that their rule does not conflict with the Syndar Codex.
Law of Internal Governance
Each kingdom is responsible for organizing its local government and institutions, including the nobility, councils, and magistrates, to ensure the smooth operation of society. The common people, as well as the nobility, must be governed by laws that respect their roles and duties, with no interference from outside kingdoms.
Law of Nobility Rights
Nobles within each kingdom retain their hereditary rights, including land ownership, titles, and responsibilities. These rights must be respected by all kingdoms, and no foreign kingdom shall claim or alter these privileges without the expressed consent of the kingdom in question.
Law of Commoner Protection
Every kingdom is charged with the protection of its common people. The kingdom must maintain order, ensure basic rights, and provide for the welfare of its citizens. External forces or other kingdoms shall not meddle in matters concerning the day-to-day lives or the social hierarchy of the people.
Law of Non-Interference
No kingdom shall intervene in the domestic affairs of another kingdom without invitation or mutual agreement. Kingdoms are bound by the Syndar Codex to uphold the independence of their fellow realms, ensuring that each kingdom’s internal policies and decisions are free from
external influence, unless there is a direct threat to peace or order.
War and External Relations
Law of Forbidden Alliances
No kingdom shall form any alliances with external powers, be they foreign nations or other entities, for the purpose of attacking, conquering, or harming any kingdom bound by the Syndar Codex. All alliances or treaties with non-Syndar entities that pose a threat to any of the seven kingdoms are strictly forbidden.
Law of War Declaration
If a kingdom chooses to engage in war against another kingdom bound by the Syndar Codex, a formal declaration of war must be made six months in advance. Surprise attacks or acts of aggression without prior warning are deemed unlawful, and a kingdom found guilty of such actions will be subject to penalties defined by the Codex.
Law of Mutual Defense
Should any kingdom within the Syndar alliance face an invasion or attack from an external force, the remaining kingdoms are bound by the Codex to provide aid and defense. All seven kingdoms must come to the defense of the threatened kingdom, ensuring that the collective strength of Syndar is maintained.
Law of Protection of Syndar Lands
No foreign kingdom or external power is permitted to conquer or claim any lands within the territories of the Syndar kingdoms. Not by conquering, not by trade. The lands of Syndar belong solely to its seven kingdoms, and any attempt to annex these lands by outsiders is a direct violation of the Syndar Codex if the any of kingdoms allow it.
The strength of the Syndar Codex relies on the unity of its kingdoms. To allow any external nation or force to conquer any part of Syndar territory, or to weaken the bond between the seven kingdoms, would be to diminish the power and protection offered by the Codex itself. Therefore, the kingdoms must maintain their unity and not allow foreign influence or control over their lands.
Land, Property, and Borders
Law of Land Preservation
Each kingdom is bound by the Codex to ensure that its lands are protected from destruction, deforestation, and environmental degradation. It is the responsibility of all kingdoms to protect and conserve their natural resources, maintaining the health of the land for future generations. In the event of any destruction or disaster, the kingdoms are obligated to cooperate and restore the land to its natural state.
Law of Environmental Cooperation
When any kingdom faces environmental disasters such as floods, droughts, or other natural catastrophes, the Syndar kingdoms must come together to offer assistance and support. This includes sharing resources, knowledge, and manpower to restore and protect the affected lands, recognizing that the health of nature is the foundation of all life in Syndar.
Law of Flora and Fauna Protection
The flora and fauna of each kingdom must be safeguarded from extinction. The kingdoms are responsible for the preservation of their native species and ecosystems, ensuring the balance of nature is maintained. In cases where a species faces the threat of extinction, all kingdoms are required to cooperate in efforts to save and preserve these creatures, whether through conservation or reintroduction programs.
Law of Sustainable Land Use
Kingdoms must implement sustainable practices in agriculture, industry, and settlement development to ensure that their lands are not overexploited. The use of land must not be done at the expense of the environment, and any damage to ecosystems through pollution or irresponsible land use must be mitigated immediately with corrective actions and cooperation between the kingdoms.
Law of Natural Heritage
The natural landscapes, rivers, forests, and mountains within Syndar are considered sacred. These areas must be preserved and treated with reverence, as they are the foundation of life in the kingdoms. Any development or use of these lands must be carefully regulated, ensuring that nature’s gifts are passed down intact to future generations.
International Trade and Commerce
Law of Fair Trade Pricing
All kingdoms of Syndar are bound by the Codex to ensure that trade prices between the kingdoms remain fair, equitable, and reasonable. No kingdom shall impose unjust or exploitative prices on goods and services traded between the kingdoms. Price manipulation, hoarding, or market manipulation for personal gain is strictly prohibited.
Law of Trade Transparency
Each kingdom is required to maintain transparency in its trade agreements, tariffs, and taxes. All terms of trade must be clearly outlined and mutually agreed upon by the kingdoms involved. Any disputes or grievances regarding trade practices must be settled through diplomatic channels to ensure continued cooperation and fairness.
Law of Mutual Economic Support
In times of economic hardship or crisis, the Syndar kingdoms are bound to offer mutual support in trade and commerce. This includes providing essential goods, resources, and assistance to kingdoms facing shortages or economic collapse. The kingdoms shall work together to ensure the stability of trade networks and to prevent the exploitation of weaker states within the alliance.
Protection Against External Forces
Law of Collective Defense
Should any external force or foreign nation threaten or attack a kingdom within the Syndar alliance, all kingdoms are bound by the Codex to come to the aid of the attacked kingdom. This collective defense ensures that no kingdom stands alone in the face of aggression, and that the full strength of Syndar is brought to bear against any external threat.
Law of Border Defense and Security
All Syndar kingdoms are responsible for maintaining the security and defense of their borders. If any external force attempts to breach the borders of one kingdom, the remaining kingdoms must coordinate to provide military and logistical support to repel the invaders. This includes sharing intelligence, resources, and military forces as needed to secure the borders of the alliance.
Law of Prevention and Diplomacy
Before any external conflict arises, the kingdoms are bound by the Codex to pursue peaceful diplomatic measures to resolve disputes with foreign nations. Only if diplomacy fails and an external threat becomes imminent should the kingdoms resort to military action. Syndar shall present a united front in diplomacy and warfare, ensuring that no kingdom is isolated or vulnerable to external aggression.
Slavery and Servitude
Law of Racial Distinction in Slavery
Slavery within the kingdoms of Syndar shall be restricted to non-thalarian races. Only individuals of races outside of humanity may be enslaved. Human beings shall never be made slaves, and the practice of enslaving any member of the human race is strictly forbidden under the Codex.
Law of Fair Treatment and Punishment
Slaves shall not be subjected to torture or inhumane treatment. Owners are permitted to administer reasonable punishment for disobedience or transgressions, but all punishments must be fair, just, and proportionate. Any punishment deemed excessively cruel or abusive will be subject to review by the local authorities and the kingdom’s laws.
Law of Minimum Care
If a slave’s owner is unable or unwilling to provide for the basic needs of their slave, including food, shelter, and adequate living conditions, they are required by law to release the slave from servitude. The slave shall be granted their freedom without penalty to them, and the owner may be held accountable for failing to meet these standards.
Law of Freedom Grants
Any slave may be granted their freedom at the discretion of the kingdom's monarch, with the king’s approval being required for the manumission process. Slaves who have proven themselves through service or other means may petition for their release, but it is ultimately up to the king to determine whether to grant freedom, considering the circumstances and merit of the request.
Law of Slave Rights and Owner Responsibility
Slaves shall have the same basic rights as domesticated animals. They are entitled to fair treatment, and any form of torture, abuse, or deliberate harm by the owner is strictly prohibited. If a slave is mistreated, the owner will face punishment determined by the severity of the offense—ranging from the loss of a finger for minor infractions to the loss of a hand for grave offenses. The punishment will be carried out in accordance with the laws of the kingdom to maintain order and respect for all beings.
Religion and Belief Systems
Law of Faith of Creation
The official and only recognized religion within all Syndar kingdoms is the Faith of Creation, which is rooted in the belief of a singular, divine Creator-Laris. All kingdoms are bound by the Codex to uphold this faith as the primary religion, and all other belief systems, if present, must be practiced privately and without public influence or organization.
Law of Religious Institution Regulation
Each kingdom is responsible for the proper establishment and regulation of religious buildings, such as temples, shrines, and sanctuaries dedicated to the Creator. The kingdoms are also tasked with overseeing the education and training of future priests and religious leaders. These institutions must maintain strict adherence to the doctrines of the Faith of Creation, ensuring that religious teachings align with the sacred texts and traditions.
Law of Prevention of Foreign Religions
The spread of any foreign or external religions is strictly prohibited within the Syndar kingdoms. The kingdoms shall not tolerate the public promotion or establishment of beliefs that conflict with the Faith of Creation. Any individual or group attempting to introduce foreign religious practices or ideologies must be met with legal opposition, and such activities may be punishable by law to protect the unity and sanctity of the established faith.
Protection of Nature and Resources
Law of Resource Sustainability
Each kingdom is bound by the Codex to ensure that all natural resources within Syndar are carefully protected and preserved for future generations. Kingdoms must adopt sustainable practices in the extraction and use of resources, such as minerals, timber, water, and agriculture, ensuring that these resources remain abundant and available across all territories of Syndar.
Law of Importation of External Resources
To ensure the continued prosperity and growth of Syndar, kingdoms are permitted to import valuable external resources that are not available within Syndar's borders. However, such imports must be regulated to avoid exploitation or depletion of foreign resources. The resources imported should contribute to the overall well-being of the Syndar kingdoms, and their trade must be done in fair exchange for Syndar goods.
Law of Internal Resource Trade
All kingdoms are encouraged to openly trade their natural resources within the Syndar alliance. Trade of resources such as precious metals, timber, livestock, and agricultural products must be unrestricted between the kingdoms, as long as it follows fair trade practices. Each kingdom is encouraged to share its surplus and contribute to the collective prosperity of Syndar, ensuring that no kingdom hoards essential resources and that all have access to the materials needed for growth and development.
Archana and Magical Practices
Law of Syndar Academy of Archana's Dominance
The
Archanic Conclave is the supreme authority overseeing all matters of
Archana within the boundaries of
Syndar. All magical practices, knowledge, and research are to be guided by the Conclave's laws and regulations. The
Archana Academy of Syndar shall be recognized as the sole institution with the power to regulate and control archana across all seven kingdoms.
Law of Academy Autonomy
The
Archana Academy of Syndar same as its owners, the
Archanic Conclave, are fully autonomous and are not subject to the authority or control of any individual kingdom within Syndar. The Conclave operates independently from the kingdoms, ensuring its neutrality in all matters concerning magic, education, and research. Its decisions and actions must be respected by all kingdoms.
Law of Archana Advisors
Every kingdom within Syndar is required to maintain an official archanic advisor, a representative appointed by the
Archanic Conclave. This advisor shall be responsible for overseeing magical practices and ensuring that archana is used according to the Academy's guidelines within each kingdom. The advisor acts as the bridge between the Academy and the kingdom's leadership.
Law of Archanic Council Oversight
The Archanic Council, composed of high-ranking members of the Syndar Academy of Archana, is entrusted with maintaining the balance and regulation of archana across Syndar. This council is responsible for monitoring the use of magic and ensuring that no kingdom or individual abuses magical powers or destabilizes the magical equilibrium of the realm.
Law of Detection and Handover of Magic Users
Any individual discovered to possess the ability to use archana, regardless of their rank or status, must be immediately handed over to the Syndar Academy of Archana. The Academy will then assess the individual’s abilities and determine the appropriate course of action. Unauthorized use of archana is a grave offense and shall be dealt with accordingly by the
Archanic Conclave.
Law of Magical Knowledge Secrecy
The knowledge of archana, including its theories, practices, and spells, is to be kept strictly secret and is restricted to those who have been trained and authorized by the Syndar Academy of Archana. Sharing this knowledge without permission is forbidden and is punishable by law, as the unchecked spread of magical knowledge could lead to disastrous consequences.
Law of Commoner Ban on Archana Practice
Commoners, regardless of their status, potential or talents, are forbidden from practicing archana. Magic is a discipline that is reserved for the educated and trained individuals under the supervision of the
Archana Academy of Syndar. Any commoner found attempting to practice archana without the proper training and authorization will be subject to punishment by the Academy.
Law of Mandatory Handover of Magic Users
Any individual who is found to possess the ability to use archana, whether discovered or reported, must be immediately handed over to the Syndar Academy of Archana. Concealing or harboring someone with magical abilities is considered a serious offense, and those who attempt to hide magic users will be punished by death. The safety and stability of Syndar depend on the regulation of magic, and any attempts to bypass this law will be met with the utmost severity.
Currency and Economic Exchange
Law of Centralized Currency
All kingdoms within Syndar agree to adopt a single, central currency for all transactions involving trade, commerce, and financial dealings between the kingdoms. This currency will be issued and regulated by a collective Syndar authority, ensuring a stable and unified economic system that promotes easier trade and strengthens the global economy of Syndar. The agreed-upon currency will be the only recognized form of exchange when conducting inter-kingdom business.
Law of Local Currency Use and Inter-Kingdom Trade
While kingdoms within Syndar are permitted to use their own local currencies for internal trade and economic activities within their borders, any exchange of goods or services between kingdoms must use the central currency as outlined by the Syndar Codex. This ensures consistency in all inter-kingdom commerce and prevents confusion or disruption in trade when kingdoms interact with one another, promoting seamless and standardized economic exchange.
Language and Cultural Preservation
Law of Syndarien Language as the Common Tongue
All kingdoms within Syndar agree to adopt
Syndarien language as the official and common language for all inter-kingdom communication, trade, and diplomacy. The use of Syndarien in all official documents, councils, and exchanges is mandatory to ensure mutual understanding and cultural unity across the seven kingdoms. While local dialects and languages may be preserved and used within individual kingdoms, Syndarien will serve as the shared linguistic foundation for the realm.
Knighthood and Chivalric Orders
Law of Protection for Knights Outside Their Kingdoms
Any knight traveling outside their own kingdom, whether on official business, quests, or personal matters, must not be subjected to torture, maiming, or any form of painful execution. Knights are honorable warriors, and their status must be respected, regardless of which kingdom they are in. Any harm done to a knight, especially by another kingdom's forces or citizens, will be met with severe punishment, ensuring their dignity is upheld across the land.
Law of Protection for Chivalric Orders
Any Chivalric Order that has received the official approval of a king, or a coalition of multiple kings, to operate within specific or multiple kingdoms, is granted legal protection by the Codex of Syndar. No person, group, or authority is allowed to hinder or interfere with the work of such orders. Those who attempt to obstruct, harm, or prevent a chivalric order from fulfilling its duties will be punished according to the severity of their crime, ranging from loss of fingers for lesser offenses to death for more egregious transgressions.
Law of Non-Interference with Chivalric Orders
No military, law enforcement, or individual is permitted to interfere with the activities or autonomy of a chivalric order, except for the king who provided the initial approval for the order’s establishment. The authority of the chivalric orders supersedes that of all other local forces and individuals. A king, or their rightful successor, has the power to modify or revoke the permissions granted to a chivalric order; however, any such decision must be made with the utmost care and consideration, as these orders serve a vital role in the defense and governance of the kingdom(s).
Heraldry and Noble Titles
To maintain harmony and unity among the seven kingdoms of Syndar, it is decreed that all kingdoms shall follow a uniform heraldic structure and system of noble titles. This order binds all realms under the Syndar Codex of Laws, ensuring consistency in the recognition and organization of noble ranks across the entire Syndar. This should also be unified for regional naming such as Kingdom, Duchie, Countie and Baronie.
Standardization of Titles and Ranks
King/Queen at the highest rank.
Duke/Duchess overseeing duchies.
Earl/Countess governing counties.
Baron/Baroness presiding over baronies.
Lord/Lady managing smaller estates or holdings.
Knight/Sir/Dame serving as military leaders and retainers.
Commoners who hold no title and serve the kingdom.
King/Queen
The King or Queen holds supreme power over the entire kingdom. They govern all lands within the kingdom's borders and are responsible for the overall prosperity, security, and diplomacy of the realm. Their authority is absolute, and they make decisions regarding war, peace, and alliances. They may grant titles and lands to nobles in exchange for service.
Duke/Duchess
Dukes and Duchesses are in charge of large regions called duchies. These territories are typically expansive, consisting of several counties or towns. Dukes are expected to provide military support to the king when required and manage the welfare of their subjects, ensuring peace, security, and justice in their domain. They often command armies in times of war and collect taxes from the land.
Earl/Countess
Earls and Countesses govern counties, which are smaller than duchies but still significant. They maintain the order and security of their territories, manage local economies, and supervise lesser lords and knights. Earls may be tasked with defending their counties from external threats, handling trade, and ensuring the wellbeing of their people. They are also responsible for administering justice within their lands.
Baron/Baroness
Barons and Baronesses are in charge of baronies, which are smaller territories within a county. They manage local affairs, including agriculture, trade, and defense. Barons are expected to maintain order, protect their subjects, and ensure taxes are collected properly. They serve as the primary link between the common people and the higher nobility, carrying out the king or earl’s directives on a local level.
Lord/Lady
Lords and Ladies may not own large territories but often have control over smaller estates or holdings. Their responsibility lies in managing these lands, ensuring that the farms and businesses thrive, and maintaining law and order within their domain. They may also be involved in regional affairs, assisting higher nobility in overseeing their territories.
Knight/Sir/Dame
Knights, who are often granted the title of Sir or Dame, do not have land by default, but they may serve as military leaders or personal retainers to higher nobles, often Dukes, Earls, or Barons. Their primary responsibility is to serve in the defense of their lord’s lands and to maintain law and order within their domain. They may also assist in managing smaller lands or settlements but are primarily warriors.
Commoners
Commoners do not hold land or titles. They serve the kingdom through labor, trade, or military service. They may work the land, craft goods, or serve as soldiers. While they have no governing responsibility, their labor and services are vital to the kingdom’s prosperity and functioning.
Standardization of landscapes
Kingdom
A Kingdom is the highest recognized territorial division governed by a monarch, typically a King or Queen, who holds supreme authority over all lands, inhabitants, and institutions within its borders. The kingdom may consist of multiple duchies, counties, and baronies, all under the direct or indirect rule of the monarch. The Kingdom is bound by its own laws, as well as the overarching legal framework established by the Syndar Codex of Laws.
Duchy
A Duchy is a large territorial unit within a kingdom, governed by a Duke or Duchess, who holds authority over a group of counties and baronies within the duchy. A duchy is the second highest rank of territorial division, and its ruler has substantial autonomy, although still subordinate to the kingdom’s monarch.
County
A County is a division within a duchy, governed by a Count or Countess. A county represents a middle-tier jurisdiction responsible for local governance, including maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, managing resources, and overseeing settlements within its borders. The Count or Countess exercises authority granted by the Duke or the monarch and is accountable for the well-being of the inhabitants and the prosperity of the county.
Barony
A Barony is a smaller territorial unit, typically within a county, governed by a Baron or Baroness. Barons and Baronesses have authority over smaller estates, villages, or towns. Their duties include the administration of justice, collection of taxes, and the defense of their land. Barons are directly responsible to the Count or Duke of their region and must ensure that their lands are well-governed and prosperous.
Estate/Holding
An Estate or Holding refers to a parcel of land granted to a noble, typically a Lord, Lady, or Knight, as part of their personal property or title. These lands can range from a small agricultural plot to a larger property encompassing multiple villages or manors. The holder of the estate or holding is responsible for managing the land, overseeing the people who live on it, and ensuring that taxes are paid to the higher authorities (Baron, Count, Duke, or King). The titleholder enjoys the rights and privileges associated with ownership, such as fealty from peasants or serfs and the ability to levy rents.
"Let it be known throughout the land: This document, the Syndar Codex of Laws, is not merely a decree, but a sacred bond, forged by the unity of all our kingdoms. To dishonor or break its tenets is to betray the very foundation upon which our realm stands. May each ruler, noble, and citizen uphold it, for the prosperity and safety of our people, and the enduring strength of Syndar. This is the will of the Crown, and it must be followed, now and for all the ages to come."— King Aleron I of Venburg,
Founder of the Syndar Codex of Laws
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