Hearth Bound Treaty

Before the birth of the first Queen of Elturia the various holds in the region governed their own sovereign areas. There were petty squabbles and land disputes between them. Even Aldhon was not immune to this. However, everything changed with the birth and rise of Lufir Elturandis. Leading the defense of Aldhon from the Thane of Gli in 70 A.F. while she was only 17 years old, Lufir proclaimed herself to be the first queen of Elturia. She received a terrible vision of dark fire and death, and used that as reason enough to bring the entire region under one banner so that it may face that threat, whatever it may be. At the time, many did not believe her claim (and still don't) but she managed to convince each hold to fall under her banner, either through diplomacy or military might. As a symbol of their word and loyalty, she had them sign the Hearth Bound Treaty. While many still wait for the day that the first queen foresaw, the Hearth Bound Treaty completely changed the social dynamics on high and low throughout Elturia.

Pledge of Honor

I swear, by my soul, eternal fealty to the Queen of Aldhon and will ride to her defense in times of need. I pledge to protect the land and its people. I observe this oath against all who shall mean the land or my Queen harm. I will fulfill my oath with honor and without deceit.

— Opening lines of the Hearth Bound Treaty

The document itself details various trade, tithes, and military agreements designed to bring the region together. The leader of every hold is expected to sign the document. New heads of a hold are expected to travel to Aldhon within two months to sign the document or it is taken as an act of treason by the crown. Most of the people of Elturia are staunchly honorable, and will hold to their word if it hurts them. However, when new leaders take control of their Hold, they will often use this as a way around the treaty if they wish to rebel against the crown. The most recent example is Naerfi of House Skjol.

Type

Treaty, Diplomatic

Medium

Vellum / Skin

Signatories (Organizations)

• Elturian Kingdom