• Lore • [Viden] Factions

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The Factions of Viden

Words

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The Directorate

The leaders of Viden number five: A Directorate, consisting of four Delegates and their leader - the Máthisi. In all things, they are to be obeyed without question. It is not that they are particularly tyrannous, but that to disobey them could affect the entire city, which must remain strong during the treacherous weather that plagues the city every day. For the most part, they are benevolent, approachable leaders, with the best interests of the city and its citizens at heart, and their policies reflect that.

The Máthisi, who is always female answers directly to the ever-present Yvithia, who has a vested interest in protecting those who live in and venture to her stronghold, as each has something to offer. Thus permanent citizens and guests are treated as equals, and any hierarchy is based entirely upon ability and/or intelligence. Respected members of the community, the Directorate consists of individuals who are learned but, more importantly, display practical qualities, such that they are capable of ruling the city effectively. They must not fall to the addiction of studying, as they must constantly consider what the city needs in order to survive… which they would not be able to learn from the well-worn pages of an old tome. Often, the Directorate are at odds with Yvithia and her high-ranking academics, but the latter two hold grudging respect for the former.

All members of the Directorate are of eídisi or human heritage exclusively, and may be male or female, though the Máthisi, who is elected every six years from the currently serving Directorate, must be female. Members of the Directorate may chose to serve for up to three terms. Rarely, a Delegate is deemed unfit to serve, most often due to ailing mental health relating to age or trauma. Every six years, there is an election, in which any citizens who have reached their majority (which varies from race to race), and any guests - also of majority - who have been in the city for at least two seasons, may vote for the placement of any candidates into the Directorate. Candidates must have been born within the city limits. There is a separate vote for the election of a new Máthisi, however the five members of the previous term count for 50% of the votes.

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The Intelligence Authority

The Intelligence Authority are an intelligence service and law enforcement agency which operates in secrecy throughout the main city of Viden and in all of the outlying towns around the Bay of Synnefa. As a secret police organisation, they have little to no transparency, accountability or oversight, and they answer only to the Directorate (who, in turn, are loyal to Yvithia). A subsection of the Naval Force, the Intelligence Authority is given all of the standard tactical and combative training expected. The best are then offered the chance to gain training in intelligence, subterfuge, interrogation and related skills, in order to gain rank in the secret police.

Though the Intelligence Authority functions much a traditional organisation in a totalitarian state, Viden is not an authoritarian political city, nor is there a specifically autocratic regime. This secret police does not spy on the citizens and visitors of the city: they do not care whether or not the people love Yvithia. They do not exist to protect the political power of the current Directorate. They do not imprison people for disagreeing with the decisions and laws of the state.

The Intelligence Authority exists purely to protect the interests of the Directorate, the city and the Immortal Yvithia. Most often, this role ensures that the secrets that Viden wishes to protect remain just that: a secret. As has been the case since Treid's perceived abandonment, Yvithia's biggest fear is that the her beloved Facility for Retrospective Analysis (the half which researches the Great Shattering, not Treid's revival) will be revealed to the rest of Idalos (or even to the majority of Viden). As such, the primary duty of the Intelligence Authority is to maintain this secret above all others.

The Intelligence Authority are accountable only to the Directorate. They are specifically intended to operate above and beyond the law in order to suppress dissent or negative movements through clandestine acts of terror and intimidation (such as kidnapping, coercive interrogation, torture, internal exile, forced disappearance, and assassination). They operate partially in secrecy, that is, most of their operations are obscure and hidden from the general public, though a number of operants are known to the public. This capacity allows the Directorate to bolster some forms of necessary control over the citizens and visitors to Viden.

The Intelligence Agency has the traditional (and transparent) police authority to arrest and detain certain individuals as necessary. But in some cases they are given unsupervised control of the length of detention, and are given authority to decide and administer punishments independent of the normal operation of Videnese law. The organisation employs internal spies and civilian informants to find any who may act against Yvithia's goals. Secret police may intercept letters entering and leaving the city, check goods and cargo loads leaving the city, and stop any person entering or leaving, especially through a path less travelled.

People apprehended by the secret police are often arbitrarily arrested and detained without due process. While in detention, arrestees may be tortured or subjected to inhumane treatment. Suspects may not receive a public trial, and instead may be convicted in a fake, show trial, or by a secret tribunal. In times of emergency or war, the Directorate may lawfully and publicly grant the Intelligence Authority additional powers, which are designed to protect the city and its inhabitants.

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The Mariners' Union

The force of the Videnese Mariners (otherwise known as the Videnese Navy) is one of the strongest in the world, purely because of their unique knowledge and skills when it comes to sailing in the harsher climates of the arctic waters. They are specifically named for their work on the sea - arguably, the only group that the city must be protected against are the various Mer races, who are destructive towards nigh on all civilisations that they approach. The Mer races are killed on sight, thus they are constantly training to be prepared for battles against any arriving clans.

The Mariners also play an important role in monitoring the movements of the many pirate ships who traverse the high seas. Pirates threaten the precious cargo that is vital to Viden: the fresh food, cattle and slaves which arrive every season. It is due to the efforts of Viden's Mariners that the trade routes so vital to its survival are kept safe.

Other than that, their peacetime tasks turn to support the fishing industry. They work in close tandem with the Hunters and Merchants of the city, ensuring Viden's survival on an economic level, as well as a combative one.

Vitally important to the city, those in the Mariner's Union are considered by most in the city to be uncouth and uneducated, but this does not stop them from holding vast amounts of respect from even the most powerful academics. All highly trained and especially skilled in one area of fishing, their knowledge of their craft can be measured against any book-smarts in the city. They are, in effect, the life blood of the city, supplying Viden with the majority of its food.

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The Rangers' Union

Rangers' Union is strongly linked to that of the Mariners' Union.

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The Merchants' Guild

Considered to be a lesser of the major factions in the city, the Merchant’s Guild is specific to Viden and its influence doesn’t extend beyond the city itself. The group is made up of any and all merchants in the city, ranging from the bartenders and shopkeepers all the way through to those of a more political nature, who work only on keeping trade relations with other cities throughout Idalos.

Together they decide the price of goods within the city though often they are influenced by the Mariner's and Hunter's Unions. They have a great amount of say in how the city spends the money placed into its coffers.

A little known fact about the Merchant's Guild is that they also control and maintain the city’s warehouses and see to it that businesses within the city are allowed to flourish in a fair and competitive atmosphere. In such situations as there are shortages of food, it is this guild who will ensure that rationing is fair throughout the city.

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Viden's Aristocracy

For more in-depth information about individual members of the Aristocracy, please see Character CSes or check through the NPC List

Terms and Titles
The Aristocracy Caste, though just as powerful and influential as the Nobility of Rynmere, are structured very differently. There are no Dukes or Barons. Instead, only Lords and Ladies. The Head of each family is styled Lord/Lady [Surname] in an official capacity, and they hold ultimate power. All other members, may also be styled Lord/Lady, but as a matter of respect, rather than denoting significant power. As an example, Verity and Virikai Talius, when addressed directly or spoken of indirectly, would be styled "Lord Talius" and "Lord Virikai" respectively.

Aranaz

Race: Human

The Aranaz family are what might be considered 'new money', even though they have been considered part of the Aristocratic Caste for well over a century. Though well respected in the city, with a significant amount of clout due to their extreme wealth, they are, in their own way, easily considered to be the black sheep of the caste. Though not publicly - or even privately - spoken about, the vast majority of their wealth has been accumulated through illegal means. The family found a niche within the city's Laws on alcohol prohibition, and vint wines to export across Idalos, as well as selling them on the black market within the city limits. They get away with it because, at least if the Intelligence Authority can keep a covert eye on their operations, they can still control consumption within Viden. That and the other families in the caste enjoy fine things, and there are few things finer than wine.

With the recent - and mildly suspicious - death of the head of the family, the sociopathic and cruel heir, Julian Aranaz has most recently ascended to this position of power. This has put the family in a significant position of flux and instability. Julian, not known for his diplomacy, is a rash man who makes quick decisions without thinking about the consequences of his actions - whether that be on himself, his family, or others. A good number are now quietly watching the family with morbid interest, wondering if the family will down or fly under the control of this new leadership.

Members

Tobren Aranaz	The deceased Head of the Aranaz family, and father of Julian.
[PC] Julian Aranaz	The oldest son of Tobren and the current Lord Aranaz.

Fahe

Race: Eídisi

Without doubt the most wealthy and influential family within the Aristocratic Caste, the Fahe family has been known since the foundations of the city. They are also arguably the most prolific: an exceedingly large family, with a number of cadet branches, their members are amongst Yvithia's most trusted and favoured citizens. The term "fingers in many pies" is often the first that comes to mind when thinking of this family, with members leading the Academy and Facility for Retrospective Analysis, as well as senior members in the Directorate and other government positions. If anything goes on in the city, it is likely that the Fahe family are somehow involved.

Above all else, this family has a strong sense of duty, with all members working in complete symbiosis to complete Yvithia's ends. Save the very young children, it is believed that all members have been Blessed by her at least once, and it is rumoured that not a single one of them has ever failed her. They are the pinnacle of what it is to be Videnese, to be eídisi, to be followers of the Immortal of Intelligence. A cut above the rest, all Aristocratic families are keen to make lasting political bonds with the Fahe's, normally through marriage. However the family do have a reputation of marrying beyond the caste - seeking Artisans and Masters in an effort to spread their sphere of influence even further, as well as strengthen the family through the acquisition of new loyalties and skills.

Members

Sheud Fahe	Head of the Fahe Dynasty and Chancellor of the Viden Academy
Selek Fahe	Eldest son to Sheud and Head Researcher in the Facility for Retrospective Analysis. Right to the Heirship withdrawn due to the responsibilities of his position.
Caeli Fahe	Grandaughter to Sheud, son to Selek and a member of the Directorate. Right to the Heirship withdrawn due to her position as Máthisi-in-Waiting.
[PC] Isthmae Fahe	Grandson to Sheud, son to Selek and bother to Caeli. Heir to the Fahe Lordship.

Killarney

Race: Human

Merchants. Rangers.

Members

Mikael Killarney	Head of the Killarney line. Member of the Directorate.
Name	Information

Rush

Race: Human

The only family in the Aristocratic Caste to not originate in Viden, the Rush family arrived in the form of two orphan brothers - twins Verin and Venser. Only for a short time did they remain unrecognised, for both brothers were exceptionally skilled in their own fields. Venser, having joined the Seekers at a young age, arrived with his older brother in tow, who quickly found his footing within the Academy. Individually, the pair made a name for themselves, and together they continued to strengthen the links between the Northern Seeker Cell and the Viden Academy, bringing about the healthy relationship the city now enjoys.

It is not wealth which brings about this family's influence. The twins maintain a comfortable lifestyle, but can in no way be considered affluent in the same way the other families are. It is, instead, their professional situations which have given rise to their position within this caste. It is an unstable position, all things considered: the brothers are not married, and have no other known family to speak of (they are both very reserved and will neither confirm nor deny any rumours about their past). It is highly unlikely that either of the pair will fall from grace, but if they pass, there is no one to take up the mantle of this industrious pair.

Members

Verin Rush	Head of the Rush family. Dean of the Institute of Arcana within the Viden Academy.
Venser Rush	Younger twin brother of Verin and Inquisitor to the Northern Seeker Cell.

Talius

Race: Eídisi

A relatively small family, definitely when compared against the Fahe's, the Talius family is not one to be underestimated. Only a generation ago considered to be a lesser family in the Aristocratic circles, its members are now known and respected among the most influential. This family is unusual in that Lord Verity Talius - the current head of the family - is not a Talius by birth. In reality, he rose up from the Precariat class (the lowest class in Viden) when he was turned into an eídisi from human by Yvithia as a test subject in the Facility for Retrospective Analysis. He was a nobody, a child born in the facility with no name, no identity. Turned and marked thrice by Yvithia, he became an Exhalted member of the Xypha community, and soon rose to become her Champion. An arranged marriage to one Elise Talius, daughter and heir to the Talius line, gave him his name and title.

This unprecedented shift from nothing to a position of power was not unwarranted - Verity is much like his contemporaries in that he is unwavering in his loyalty to the Immortal Yvithia. His ruthless ambition and keen sense for politics makes him a formidable member of the Directorate, second only to the Máthisi in power. He is Yvithia's Right Hand, which is the true basis for the Talius family's growing power within Viden.

Members

Verity Talius	Head of the Talius family, member of the Directorate and Champion to the Immortal Yvithia.
Elise Talius	Lady Talius, wife of Verity.
[PC] Virikai Talius	Son of Verity, scion to the Talius Dynasty, Student, Physician, Politician, and Researcher.
[PC] Raven Talius	Daughter of Verity, younger sister to Virikai. Student and Researcher.
[PC] Maebella Arval	Future wife of Virikai, granddaughter of Lord Voren.

Tariq

Race: Human

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Members

Tyburn Tariq	Patriarch of the Tariq family. Political Advisor and Lecturer in Arcana.
Silva Tariq	Lady Tariq (nee Yalta).
Wyllum Tariq	Son of Tyburn and Silva, heir to the Tariq line. Saber Instructor.
[PC] Zana Delroth	Assumed surname: Malinconico. 'Sister' of Theo, Mortalborn daughter of Delroth. Future wife of Wyllum.

Vielus

Race: Eídisi

TBC

Members

Name	Information
Eneli Vielus	Nee Talius, sister of Elise Talius and wife of X. Máthisi.

Voren

Race: Eídisi

To be added by Banshee

Members

Taelis Voren	Lord Voren.
Orthen Voren	Son of Taelis, heir to the Voren family.
Trinna Arval	Nee Voren, Trinna is a disgraced and deceased daughter of Taelis Voren, and a world-renowned linguist.
[PC] Maebella Arval	Future wife of Virikai, granddaughter of Taelis, daughter of Trinna.

Xeres

Race: Eídisi

Military/Rangers/Mainers

Members

Stephin Xeres	Head of the Xeres family. Commander of something
Name	Information

Yalta

Race: Human

The Yalta family are an old and well respected member of the Videnese aristocracy, having been part of it for at least the last six generations. This is a family steeped in history and tradition, their wealth comes from the slave trade and they have thrived in Viden for many an arc. As the family owns a number of slave-related businesses, they are one of the wealthier members of the Videnese Aristocracy. Furthermore, they are known for ensuring that their slaves are well trained and suitable for other members of the Aristocracy or the Masters of Videnese society - to own a Yalta- Trained Slave is to own the best.

The family has close links with the FRA, for obvious reasons and with the Academy.

Members

Philip Yalta	Patriarch of the Yalta Dynasty. Owns many businesses in the slave trade.
Cicile Yalta	Deceased wife of Philip
Giro Yalta	Son of Philip and heir to the Yalta Lordship. Owns many businesses in the slave trade.
Jina Yalta	Wife of Giro.
Pal'yn Yalta	Son of Philip, disenchanted member of the Yalta line.
Corrine Yalta	Wife of Pal'yn.
Ses'ka Yalta	Daughter of Philip.
[PC] Theo Nji'Ryn	Assumed surname: Malinconico. 'Brother' of Zana. Future husband to Ses'ka.