Laudean Provincial Government

There were seven seperate Kingdoms which together made up "The Union" of Laudean's pre-civil war government.

Introduction

The provinical governing system was actually more important to the population of Tilhon than the federal government while in existance. While the federal government held the ultimate power over the planet, provincial kindoms held more sway over the day-to-day life of the Laudeans. As almost all those who participated as decision-makers in the federal government actually held their office "first" within their kingdom, it is important to understand the power hierarchy.

Kingdoms

Seven kingdoms divide approximately 98% of the Tilhon landmass. The remaining 2% exists as unclaimed or uninhabitable lands, such as the northernmost tundra.

• Duronis II Northern Alliance
  • Kingdom of Devi
  • Kingdom of Govinda
  • Kingdom of Damodara
• Duronis II Manaria United
  • Kingdom of Manar
  • Kingdom of Rania
• Duronis II Kingdoms of Tanal & Bryque
  • Kingdom of Tanal
  • Kingdom of Bryque

Monarchy

Tilhon is unique in that the power structure of all the seven major kingdoms is almost identical. While on other planets (such as Earth), nobility tended to vary across territories. It appears, however, that all Laudean nobility originates from one family line. Over 1500 years before first contact with alien races, the planet was split into 12 distinct kingdoms among the sons and daughters of one King. Throughout history, these 12 kingdoms merged to become 7.

The highest title held by any person within a kingdom is "King" or "Queen." The monarch controls all lands within the kingdom, and has almost complete control over the lands -- restrained only by a council of Dukes, which has the power to depose the King, should he become too tyrannical.

A "Duke" or "Duchess" is the next lower title, which controls a "Duchy." Duchies are "owned" by the presiding Duke, and are bestowed by the King.

A "Count" or "Countess" is the next lower title, which controls a "County." As Counts are peers, and not nobles, they do not automatically own the county they control, although they may own personal property within a county.

A "Baron" or "Baroness" is the next lower title, which controls a "Barony." As Barons are peers, and not nobles, they do not automatically own the barony they control, although they may own personal property within a barony.