Regents Domains and Powers


From the last will of Moeran Aglondier

As you know, my apprentice, Ilien lies between Roesone and Medoere —two strong domains in eastern Avonlae. I have had adequate relations with both of these provinces in recent years, though this was not always so. I have ruled Ilien for 20 years since the death of my uncle, and have learned that relations with our neighbors must be treated in the same manner as the magic we weave—with care and respect lest the power we possess turn on us and destroy that which we hold dearest.

The High Priestess Suris Enlien of Medoere and Marlae Roesone, Baroness of Roesone hold lasting treaties of good status with Ilien at the present. But beware, for they may use my death as an excuse to renegotiate these treaties.

Of all the nearby domains, I have always had the best relationship with the Barony of Roesone. Though some past regents of Roesone have had less than favorable rules, a stalwart sense of honor runs strong in that family. Roesone can be trusted to stand by her word as long as she is treated with the same respect.

  Medoere's placement between us and Diemed has benefited us greatly. When the wars of independence were raging a hundred years ago and Ilien itself was just a fledgling free state, Diemed used constant threats of invasion to sway treaties and trade routes in their favor. Medoere's own independence claim gave us a geographic as well as political buffer to spare us from the Baron Diem's threats. The High Priestess bears the weight of Diemed's attention, and with constant threat of war on that front Medoere will undoubtedly focus her attention westward instead of toward our beloved Ilien. Contact Suris soon, as she may be interested in opening more trade routes between the Free City and her eastern provinces to boost her economy in the event of war.

As you make plans for Ilien's future, know that you have many enemies at hand; some visible and others not so apparent. El-Hadid, owner of the Port of Call Exchange and the Free City's most cunning guildmaster, is a force to be reckoned with. Do not back down from el-Hadid, for you still hold enough might to drive him back to Khinasi. But remember that el-Hadid brings much commerce to Ilien, and alienating him without cause would not be good for business. A fine line needs to be followed when dealing with this Khinasi trader.

Wizards are scarce in southern Avonlae, and competition for the power of rare source holdings is fierce. I think you know that there has been an unspoken war between the High Mage Aelies and myself for control of the few places of magical power now left in the land. Our competition has slowed in recent years, but with the shrinking of the Erebannien this rivalry has potential to begin anew.

Keep a wary eye out for what may be a third threat to your regency, and one of the best kept secrets of the domain—my cousin, Curan Ondier. Curan is the illegitimate son of Uncle Soleme and a commoner. Last I heard he was living his life as a simple cattle farmer in northern Ilien, and has never quested for power unlike many others of the blood.

Curan and I have had little contact these last few years, and my death may mean nothing to him—but it may to his children, who could have designs for the throne. Consider this for the future, my friend.