“Three People, One Court”
The Luminary Court of Eldoria, holding sway in the southeast, serves as the ruling authority for the region. Wise and influential figures within the court oversee matters of law, diplomacy, and governance. Eldoria, a realm steeped in mysticism, cherishes the delicate balance between magical prowess and earthly wisdom. The grand Eldorium Palace, where the Luminary Court convenes, is a significant distance from the humble village of Thistledale. The court’s influence extends across the land, shaping the destiny of the realm from afar.
Origins
The founding of the Luminary Court is dated to 0 LC, though the events that made it possible took centuries of conflict and negotiation before that. The official history describes the three peoples as having been separately established in the lands of Eldoria, eventually recognising their shared heritage and common purpose, and uniting under a single governing framework after defeating a great evil that threatened all of them. The details of that evil are not specified in any public document. The Luminary Court’s historians describe this as a deliberate act of forward-looking restraint: naming the enemy gives it continued power, and the Luminary Court does not do that.
Luminary Houses
The Luminary Court is governed by three great houses: Starsong, Moonshadow, and Sunfire. Each house represents a distinct lineage of pure-blood elves, referred to collectively in formal imperial documents as the Luminary Kindred. The three lineages are visibly distinct if you know what to look for, though none of them are (overly) dramatic enough to identify at a glance. They share the long lives, fine features, and general bearing of elvenkind. The differences are subtler than that.
The Starsong Line
Notable Members
- Lord Elion Luminary Starsong, last know head of house
Moonshadow Line
Notable members
- Lady Seraphina Luminary Moonshadow, last known head of house
- Maelis Vane Luminary Moonshadow , Veil-Quill Reliquary Inquisitor
Sunfire Line
Notable Members
- Lord Thalion Luminary Sunfire, last known head of house
Structure
Council of Unity
The Luminary Court operates as a council, where each family holds equal standing in decision—making. The Council of Unity comprises of representatives from each line, discussing and deliberating on matters of governance, spirituality, and diplomacy.
Seat of Power
The ruling seat of the Luminary Court is a majestic citadel named Celestial Spire, nestled within the heart of Eldoria. Celestial Spire serves as a symbol of unity, with its towers reaching towards the heavens, adorned with celestial motifs that reflect the power and influence of the Luminary Court.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Luminary Court is tasked with overseeing Eldoria’s well-being, enforcing the divine accord, and ensuring the prosperity of the chosen pantheon. Their rule extends to matters of governance, justice, and diplomatic relations, maintaining a delicate balance between traditions and the evolving needs of the realm.
Major Laws of the Luminary Court
The covenant of Illumination
All citizens of Eldoria are bound by the Covenant of Illumination, which dictates the exclusive worship of the recognised pantheon — Aquilon, Durandel, Magethos, Helia, and Verdantia or from a selection of minor gods. Deviation from this established faith is considered a violation of the highest order.
Prohibition of Forbidden Arts
The practice of forbidden magical arts, including enchantment(charms etc), blood magic, and other dark arcane practices, is strictly prohibited. Violators face severe consequences, including imprisonment or exile.
Unity Edicts
The Luminary Court emphasizes the importance of unity among the various races and communities within Eldoria. Any actions or expressions that promote discord, prejudice, or division are condemned and subject to legal repercussions.
Protection of Sacred Sites:
Sacred sites dedicated to the chosen deities are off-limits to any form of desecration, defacement, or unauthorized use. Trespassing upon or vandalizing these locations is a criminal offence.
Cultural Heritage Preservation
The Luminary Court encourages the preservation of Eldorian culture and traditions. Acts that endanger or seek to erode cultural heritage, including the destruction of historical artifacts, are punishable.
Environmental Stewardship
Eldoria’s natural resources, including its forests, rivers, and mountains, are to be treated with respect. Activities that harm the environment or threaten the balance of nature are subject to legal scrutiny.
Trade and Commerce Regulations
The Luminary Court enforces fair trade practices and discourages monopolies. Unethical business practices, smuggling, and fraudulent transactions are penalized to ensure economic equity.
Divine Council Attendance
Representatives from each settlement are required to attend the annual Divine Council, where matters related to governance, the Covenant, and regional concerns are discussed. Failure to send representatives can result in fines.
Limitations on Magical Artifacts
Possession and use of powerful magical artifacts are regulated by the Luminary Court. Unauthorized use of such items, especially those with the potential for widespread harm, is prohibited.
Minor laws
These are a subset of laws/guidelines created by each settlement or county (e.g. Minor Laws in Thistledale).