Pontifex Protectorate

Pontifex Protectorate

Encompassing a vast territory, the Pontifex Protectorate grew from the Jacquinot gift of the Holy City of Rouen. This expansive territory is defined by the lands east of the River Seranite, south of the Cornlinet Range, to the eastern coast of Aurorastra, extending south from the base of the Amestead Slopes. The southern border aligns with the Northern Shore of the Golden Seas. This expansive region includes not only the majestic city of Rouen but also several vital settlements integral to the Pontifex Protectorate's prosperity.

History

In the wake of this generous bestowment, the next three centuries witnessed a concerted effort to mold these lands into a flourishing state under the guidance of the Faith. The initial focus was on organizing the vast farmlands surrounding Rouen. A large windmill complex emerged, symbolizing progress as grains were transformed into flour, a vital resource stored within the protective confines of Rouen. The fertile southern farmlands evolved into a thriving agricultural community named Bellechampe. Known by the endearing nickname "Aergia's Blessed," Bellechampe's prosperity echoed in the verses of bardic poems throughout the region. Bellechampe, though not as ornate as Rouen, has been a subject of many artists' works. On the clearest days, the Cathedral City of Rouen can be glimpsed in the background, adding to the charm of the landscape.
The Faith, recognizing the need for connectivity and outreach beyond the protectorate, established a strategic port town named Paseau. This not only facilitated the import of essential goods not locally available but also served as a secure harbor for missionaries embarking on their sacred quests. Paseau, a functional trade port, exudes a different aesthetic characterized by its utilitarian design. The focus is on practicality rather than ornate details.
A surprising yet impactful move by the Faith was the establishment of the fort, later named Poiteaux and colloquially referred to as the "Shield of The Prelates." This fortress, strategically positioned, served as a tangible symbol of the Church's unwavering commitment. It communicated unequivocally that the lands of the Protectorate were consecrated, set aside for the Faith, and aligned with the divine will of the Gods. Poiteaux, first and foremost a fort showcasing the Church's strength, follows a "function over form" design philosophy. While not as gilded and decorative as Rouen, signs of true masonry mastery can be discerned upon closer inspection.
Each settlement within the Pontifex Protectorate contributes to the blending of functionality and unique cultural nuances.

Demographics of The Protectorate

Within the Pontifex Protectorate, Bellechampe stands as a crucial farming community, contributing significantly to the region's prosperity. Approximately 57,500 residents reside in Bellechampe, where the demographic makeup mirrors that of Rouen. The city's fertile lands and hardworking inhabitants sustain both the general populace and the specialized roles of the clergy.
Paseau, functioning as a vital ocean port within the protectorate, houses around 16,500 residents. While sharing similarities with the ancestries found in Rouen, Paseau boasts a distinctive community, including a small but notable Tengu population.
Poiteaux, known as "The Holy Shield of the Prelates," is primarily a defensive fort with a small town supporting its defenders. Approximately 7,500 residents call Poiteaux home, and the demographics align with the broader protectorate. Furthermore, 2,500 individuals fulfill the critical role of manning the defenses per mandate, showcasing the fortified nature of this settlement. The remaining population comprises retired veterans, doubling as willing reservists, and support villagers residing south of the fort's walls.

Politics and Power

The Council of Prelates:

At the heart of the Pontifex Protectorate's political structure is the Council of Prelates, a revered assembly comprising the ten highest-ranking clerics, each representing one of the Tenfold Gods. Endowed with leadership over specific domains, these Prelates wield both spiritual and administrative authority over their respective territories. Their decisions, guided by divine wisdom, collectively shape the fate of the Protectorate.

Primus Pontifex and Spiritual Guidance:

Serving as the linchpin that ensures cohesion among the Prelates is the Primus Pontifex. Endowed with the unique responsibility of resolving conflicts among the clerics and steering the overall direction of the Faith, the Primus Pontifex plays a pivotal role in maintaining unity and orthodoxy within the Protectorate. The spiritual guidance provided by the Primus Pontifex echoes across the domains, reinforcing the primacy of the Tenfold Teachings.

The Holy Order of the Knights Tenfold:

To safeguard the Pax Pontifex, the Holy Order of the Knights Tenfold serves as both a military and police force. Comprising pious individuals committed to the ideals of the Faith, these knights ensure the safety of pilgrims, merchants, and adventurers alike. The Pax Pontifex, an embodiment of peace ordained by the divine, forms the bedrock of security within the Protectorate.
For those who transgress the Pax Pontifex, a system of justice prevails. Local clerical leaders administer small fines for minor offenses, while serious criminals face the ominous prospect of being sent to "The Twins Amongst the Narrows." This penal colony, considered a manifestation of divine justice, acts as both a deterrent and a corrective measure for those who stray from the teachings of the Faith.

Economics

The economic landscape of the Pontifex Protectorate transcends the mundane realms of profit and loss. It is a reflection of a profound commitment to ethical trade and moral commerce. Every transaction is infused with the divine principles that underscore the Protectorate's existence. The economic pursuits of the faithful merchants serve as an offering to the Tenfold Gods, aligning material prosperity with spiritual righteousness.
Merchants operating within the Protectorate's sacred borders are not just traders but adherents to a higher calling. The Tenfold Teachings dictate their conduct, shaping the very essence of commerce within this realm. The faithful merchants are bound by the sacred duty of ensuring fair pricing, paying tithes to the Faith, and abstaining from the trade of contraband materials deemed unholy, such as Moonshadow Opium and Dreamweaver Honey.

Bellechampe: A Beacon of Agricultural Prosperity:

In the fertile embrace of the southern farmlands, a thriving agricultural community named Bellechampe flourishes. Endearingly known as "Aergia's Blessed," this bountiful region has become a testament to the harmonious coexistence of faith and sustenance. The careful cultivation of the land, guided by the principles of Aergia, ensures not only abundance but also an exemplification of the Faith's teachings in the very soil from which sustenance springs.

Paseau: The Gateway to Connectivity and Outreach:

Recognizing the need for connectivity beyond the Protectorate's borders, the Faith strategically established the port town of Paseau. This bustling harbor town serves a dual purpose: facilitating the import of essential goods that might not be locally available and providing a secure embarkation point for missionaries embarking on their sacred quests. Paseau, with its maritime significance, extends the reach of the Faith's influence and ensures that the Tenfold Teachings find fertile ground even beyond the sacred boundaries.

Rouen
The Holy City

Bellechampe
Aegria's Blessed

Poiteaux
Shield of the Prelates