Fiction:Empire of Man

 The Empire of Man (Old Tongue: Hominum Imperium - Man's Empire), otherwise known simply as the Empire, is a large, yet somewhat recent, civilization that resides upon the world of. The Empire consists almost exclusively of humans, a young race that finds itself as one of the most expansive and diverse species on Koldenwelt's surface both numerically and culturally. The Empire, due to its nature as being constructed of many sub-divisions and smaller nations, has grown advanced and connected due to the sharing of technology and resources between the settlements and societies that are found under the Empire's banner, with access to gunpowder and other high-quality materials.

The Empire of Man is ultimately ruled, governed and overseen by the Grand Monarch; a powerful king or queen who presides over the rest of the executive and legislative branches of the Empire, with their purpose being to promote order and maintain balance between the Empire's many cultures and ethnic groups which expand across Koldenwelt's surface. The Empire is collectively known for its harsh and unforgiving xenophobia towards a majority of nonhuman races and its extreme fear and intolerance towards sorcery and supposedly 'demonic' worship. To combat these threats, the Empire has created multiple organized military-orientated hierarchies, with most being land-based although they possess respectable naval forces. However there are very few noticeable exceptions to this philosophy although all are directly overseen by the Empire's government, with unauthorized sorcerers, unsanctioned aliens and their allies usually being sentenced to execution.

As a price for sacrificing magic in favour of technology, most inhabitants are weaker than the nonhumans they fight and are often a short-lived species due to severing most of their spiritual connections, however their innovative aspects and their advanced, as well as diverse, technologies make up for their lack of physical strength and almost-complete lack of magic-orientated offense, alongside their overwhelming numbers.

History
"The bitter truth of the universe that we have learned over years of hardships is that nature itself abhors any form of equality between peoples. There are masters, whose power lays in the strength of their bodies, minds, and spirits, and then there are slaves. The former may treat the latter with respect or without it, may care for them or mistreat them, but ultimately, the nature of the relationship between slave and master never changes: one belongs to the other. Once upon a time, we humans were at the bottom of the hierarchy. We were enslaved, tortured, mutilated - cattle to our pointy-eared lords. Now, things have changed. Whereas our former masters have grown weak and decadent, we have grown strong and fearless. The great scales of the universe have been tipped into our favour, and the throne of Koldenwelt is now ours to claim."

- Grand Monarch Ermenrich of Mannazia, about the history of humanity.

Ethnicities
"We are NOT pink."

- on human ethnic diversity

Alhassan= Alhassal-ten-Fajim, also known as the Holy Kingdom of Pheonas, is the southernmost province of the Empire of Man, located on the northeastern border of the Sea of Sand. One of the oldest and most sophisticated human realms, Alhassal is a land of history and wisdom, known among the rest of the Empire for being the birthplace of the Hallowdom, the dominant faith among southern humans (including Manoriana) that also holds a great deal of influence in Mannazia and Saphronia. The priesthood of Pheonas is literally everywhere in Alhassal: from the most distant villages on the rim of its domain to the bustling plazas of its many cities, one can hear the Hallowdom's chants and see its followers gather for prayers. Because of this, Alhassans are considered by other Imperials to be a spiritual, conservative people, respected for their wisdom and faith.
 * Capital: Aracadha

Alhassans themselves are quite diverse in terms of culture, traditions and appearance (their skin colour, for instance, while invariably darker than that of the northern humans, can vary greatly from olive to dark brown depending on an Alhassan in question), being an amalgamation of many different tribes and nationalities that calll the Great Desert home. Neverthless, all these clans have several things in common: their faith, their shared enemy in the other peoples of the Desert, and their capital, Aracadha.

Unlike Mannazia or L'Ammanori, Alhassal does not have a single unifying government, although the Hallowdom clergy has a great influence in the politics of the region as a whole and is often considered to be its de facto authority. Alhassal's representative on the Table of Ministers is Sacrosanct Master Aadideva.

Bohdarian= The Bohdarians are basic humans; most are farmers who wear normal clothes and hats, while their females where tight black leather suits and skirts. Most notable about the Bohdarians is that the males all have brown hair, while females are all blonde. The males are either soldiers or farmers, while the females work taking care of their young and administrating the food stock, though they can also be found aiding their husbands at the lands of the farms. Both Bohdarian males and females have equal rights, though there are no females found among their militairy ranks, simply as the role as handmaiden is given to the daughter of the King.

The Bohdarian guard are heavily armored soldiers. Bearing long staffs and shields, they are experts at defending the walls and providing a blockades against enemy riders. Although Bohdarian soldiers are perfect defenders, their heavy armor makes them vulnrable at open field due to their weight.

Mannaz= Mannazia, officially known by others as the Principality of Mannfürsttum, is an eastern province situated between Alhassal-ten-Fajim and L'Ammanori and is recorded as being one of the eldest nations founded by humans, a notable precursor for many younger nations which are often led by Mannaz influence and philosophy. Mannazia is traditionalist and militant, holding practice in higher regard than prayer while public reputation is determined by strength and merit rather than position. Led by monarchial dynasties, the current ruler of which being Fürst Friedemann Ironhelm, Mannazia's foundations revolve around its people; sturdy, hard-working, stubborn and brave, the Mannaz people are a proud one and are often considered to be the forge which keeps the Empire and her many provinces burning with loyalty and dedication.
 * Capital: Mannazian

Mannazia is widely held in regard for its strong soldiers and durable craft, with their national armours and weapons being considered the heaviest out of nearly all of the Empire's states and provinces although this is fitting as its people are recognized for their strength. The Mannaz people are renowned for their mutual respect and rivalry with those of Alhassal due to feuds within the far past, with many Alhassans and Mannaz living within one another's borders even though their cultures inevitably vary and differentiate considerably, in some ways more radical than others. While worship and prayer is found within the walls of Mannazia, it is the military and monarchic nobility who hold political influence and favour.

Mannazia is known for being one the first nations to express xenophoby and general mistrust towards nonhumans, designating anything different to what is believed to be human as 'monstrous' and 'demonic', which has branded itself upon the rest of the Empire ever since its founding. Nearly all Mannaz men retain the instinctive urge to fight, which expresses itself in routinely brawls between friends and family members and in their eagerness to oppose aliens.

Manorian= Between the sands of Alhassal and the forests of Mannazia lies the port city of L'Ammanori, founded circa 450 years ago by merchants and pirates in the southeastern coast of the Sea of Talons; a mere harbour at first, L'Ammanori eventually grew to become a nation in its own right, known officially as the City State of Manori. The City State is an aristocratic republic, ruled by a doge elected for life and advised (and kept in check) by the Council of Hundred, the coalition of L'Ammanori's wealthiest and most powerful nobles. The people of L'Ammanori are known collectively as Manorians.
 * Capital: L'Ammanori

Unlike the other human realms which were built on strength of arms and faith, Manori was built on trade and diplomacy. Having maneuvred between the feuding kingdoms of Mannazia and Alhassal for centuries, its doges have always relied on cunning, not brute force, to retain their status, forming alliances and trade agreements with other human factions for as long as it was necessary and severing them after their use had ended. Some of the more unscrupulous rulers of L'Ammanori were also known to treat and trade with elves and other nonhuman races, even despite their xenophoby, if it benefitted them or the city somehow.

Their efforts have not gone to waste. Today, the City State of Manori (as the city's government is known) is one of the wealthiest and most influential human nations, and L'Ammanori itself is now widely considered to be the cultural heart of the Empire of Man, on par with older human capitals like Mannazia or Aracadha. Even the current Grand Monarch, Queen Pyrene II, is of Manorian blood. L'Ammanori also serves as the headquarters of the Imperial Inquisition, which is centered in the Grand Monastery of Pheonas on the outskirts of the city.

Saphronian= Originally coming to the Frontier Land to claim its vast riches, the humans of the Saphronian Hetmanate are now one of the most prolific and prominent races of the region. Industrious and militant much like their comrades in the Empire of Man, the Saphronians are neverthless much different from their cousins from the, the most notable difference being their attitude towards the Source.
 * Capital: Thalapolis (formerly), Morjegrad

Unlike the other regions of the Empire where wizards and sorcerers are feared and persecuted, magic is a common sight in Saphronia, and indeed its sorcerous academies and their students are well-known across Koldenwelt (though still looked down by innately magical races such as the Urindale); in fact, the usage of the Source is so common in the Frontier Land that every village has a mage of its own, and even those who cannot use magic often develop some strange, unusual, almost unnatural abilities. The Saphronians themselves owe their magical affinity to their history, but other humans fear that the real reason is that the Sea Giants' relics' presence has somehow changed its inhabitants like it has changed orcs.

Neverthless, the Saphronian humans remain a stalwart member of the Empire of Man and its leader, Hetman Savva Blackhand, is completely loyal to the Grand Monarch.

Karaçay= Building their cities the open grasslands and savannas of the east, the Karaçay are a relatively new province of the Empire, but are nonetheless considered a prosperous and industrious nation. The Province of Karaçay was founded only a century ago by mass migrating Karaçay refugees. The Karaçay were originally native to the Tropical Lands were they existed as nomadic tribes, undisturbed for several centuries. This nomadic lifestyle came to an end when a storm of enormous magnitude flew spores of a deadly, parasitic fungus into the Karaçay's lands. The plague spread quickly amongst the people, forcing many to flee into the Sea of Sand where the temperature was too high for the plague to germinate. After wandering the desert for a decade, the Karaçay met the Empire of Man, who invited them to establish their own Province in the Eastern Plains.
 * Capital: Karaçayople

The near-extinction of their people and the subsequent trek through the desert left a profound effect on Karaçay culture. Because of how little survived the plague, the Karaçay are now a much less diverse culture than they were before. They have abandoned their old religions focusing on Colossi and Simulacra as none of their gods responded to their prayers during the Plague and subsequent mass-migration. Xenophobia towards non-humans is especially rife, as no civilisation were willing to aid the Karaçay in their time of need until the Empire did. It should be noted, however, that this xenophobia usually does not manifest as hatred, but rather suspicion and fear. Magic, however, is not feared nor persecuted, as magic very common amongst Karaçay before the Plague, and was used during the Plague and subsequent journey through the desert for survival.

The modern government of the Karaçay under the Empire, officially known as the Serene Polity of Karaçayople, is a fairly prosperous province renowned for its hardworking population. The Karaçay devote themselves largely to agriculture, and have often been praised for "feeding the Empire," although industrial work is also prominent in urban areas. The government of the Polity of Karaçayople is an Oligarchy lead by the Council of Elders, which manages the day to day running of the state, but is outranked by the Grand Monarch.

Military
"Elven sorcerers? Desertsnake beasts of war? Dragonling machines? Give me enough human soldiers and enough swords, and I shall cut them down, one at a time. There is no force on Koldenwelt - sans one - that can stand against the Imperial war machine unified."

- General Kasfir Desertsun during the Battle of Ashfield

State Military
The State Military (Old Tongue: Custodi Praedium - Estate Guard) is the standing army of the Empire and serves primarily as its defense force and shield, being responsible for protecting the people and defending the Empire's territory from nonhuman threats, unlawful criminals and traitors of the Empire. The State Military is divided into many Regiments that vary across the many settlements and provinces of the Empire, although all have pledged their allegiance to the Grand Monarch and serve in their name without fault nor complaint. Regiments of the State Military follow loose guidelines and regulations, allowing for them to integrate aspects of their native culture, religion and tradition into their armed forces.

The State Military vary in terms of size, weaponry and uniform, with some Regiments proving much more effective and stronger than others although all Regiments possess different advantages and disadvantages, with some dividing from traditional Empire-issued tactics to suit their environment and terrain. The Regiments of the State Military are equipped at the expanse of whatever settlement they have been assigned to and follow a standard hierarchial structure, although all this can be modified with the permission of the Table of Governors or the Grand Monarch. These Regiments possess seperate advantages and disadvantages concerning their weaponry and strategies, with some Regiments possessing rifles and cannons while others make use of swords and arrows.

Overall the State Military is the largest and most numerable of the organizations that serve under the banner of the Empire and in the Grand Monarch's name. The State Military is comprised of a great number of many men and woman who have either offered their lives towards the Empire's prosperity or have been conscripted under mandatory service through ancient tradition. The State Military is, however, considered the least well-equipped organization in terms of offensive capability, with its armours and most of its weaponry being sub-par in comparison to those used by the Knights Circle and the Inquisition, although the State Military is nonetheless highly-respected by most of those within the Empire as it serves its purpose of defense and law enforcement.

The State Military is represented politically by several governors although is directly overseen and managed by the High Imperator, who also represents the State Military at the Table of Governors and is gifted with their own elite Regiment consisting of the most specialized and skilled soldiers found throughout all registered Regiments within the Empire. All units answer to the High Imperator and all assets and resource divisions are managed by them, although most Regiments are taught to function independentely otherwise with their own established hierarchies and only really answer the High Imperator's command during crysis. As the State Military is a protection-orientated force, it does not engage in crusades as that is the duty and responsibility of the Knights Circle, with their duties lying only with the defense and preservation of the Empire's territory. The State Military also serves to uphold the standard and cultural rules of the nations found within the Empire, functioning as police just as they do armed forces. This gives them a vital and highly significant role that is key to the Empire's internal maintenance.

The State Military issues in preventing and fighting against sorcery and witchcraft, external infiltration, and corruption and treachery although not all Regiments are as capable as others, thus some Regiments often require reinforcements from neighbouring territories in order to assist them in their duties if the native and local forces are incapable of doing so independently. Sometimes, Regiments from neighbouring settlements will either temporarily or permanently merge into a larger whole in order to defend the assigned territories much more efficiently, trading weaponry and sharing tactics. Kasfir Desertsun= "I think of battles passed during the day and I dream of bloodshed yet to come as I sleep at night. I know nothing else."
 * Name: Kasfir Desertsun
 * Position: High General
 * Ethnicity: Alhassan
 * Age: 53

Knights Circle
The Knights Circle (Old Tongue: Circulus Bellatorum - Circle of Warriors) is the Empire's specialized military organization and consists entirely of the most elite individuals from across the Empire's reach, selected from within and outside the State Military and often conscripted from dedicated bloodlines that offer themselves towards the Circle's services. The Knights Circle serves as an offense-orientated force, equipped and organized to engage in assaults and participate in crusades and quests in order to expand and increase the Empire's territories. The Circle is divided into many smaller divisions, known as Orders, that work in a similar manner to clans or families. Each Order is a sacred and ancient brotherhood, or sisterhood, that has dedicated itself towards lives of combat and bloodshed.

Each Order usually consists of 100 or so knights, including a single Magister or equivalent individual that possesses the responsibility of commanding, guiding and inspiring the rest of the Order. There are thought to be a great many Orders that are registered under the Circle, all with varying cultures, traditions and religions that they uphold with ferocious zealousy and loyalty. Unlike the State Military, the Knights Circle is not divided across all of the Empire's territories and some Orders do not reside within the Empire's borders at all, instead taking residence within the unexplored wilderness or behind enemy lines in order to mark the Empire's presence and prevent or forewarn invasion. The services of certain Orders can be bought for periods of time with large enough payments, although those who are unable to deliver are certain to be executed as an example of an Order's pride. The Knights Circle does not standardize equipment or uniform and is instead supplied by specialized blacksmiths and crafters found within the Orders' members.

While most knights of the Circle are above standard law and regulations that restrict civilians and officers of the State Military, they possess their own codes and set of bounds that issued by the Grand Monarch and the Table of Governors which all knights must follow, uphold and respect with the highest degree and must not doubt unless they seek to be seen as traitors. All actions undertaken by an Order must benefit the Empire as a greater whole, all knights are subject to standard law while off-duty, a knight cannot kill nor harm any intelligent creature that is of civilian or equivalent status whether it'd be ally or enemy, politicians may not be subject to harm without confirmation, and sorcery is to be discriminated against and terminated. Concerning the latter-most regulation, however, there are certain exceptions; secret Orders that are kept out of public and military knowledge that answer only to the Grand Monarch and his representatives. They are typically nomadic in order to conceal their existence and do not operate alongside standard Orders in fear of civil conflict. These are the Sanctioned Orders, which are monitored extensively by the Inquisition and are allowed to make use of magic and alien equipment under their supervision in order to combat others that use such.

The Knights Circle possess internal politics amongst Magisters and equivalent individuals, usually dealing with matters such as reinforcements, resources and general inter-Order interaction. At certain times, Orders will either divide into smaller Orders or combine with others in order to form much larger organizations, either temporarily or permanently. Such movements occur once every decade as the Empire expands, although they can occur during times of crysis. Some Orders are unregistered or are outright treacherous to the Empire's cause, these are known as the Unsanctioned Orders. These nomads are often considered as mercenaries or barbarians, although some of these Orders still hold allegiance towards the Empire and the Grand Monarch but not the established restrictions and codes.

Orders will often pursue recruits at all times and usually do so by either analyzing certain members of their nearest State Military Regiments or through conscriptions that usually include young children. While the rites of passages vary between each Order and settlement, all follow the guidelines inked in the Codex Primitus - the First Codex, a set of documents that were written by the first Grand Monarch with his own blood being used as ink, making this codex an incredibly valuable, sacred and ancient artefact that is regarded above all else by the Knights Circle.

Politically, the Circle is represented by the Magisters and their equals, although as a whole the Knights Circle is commanded, governed and overseen by the High Militante, who holds his own authority at the Table of Governors and recards every conflict, engagement, formation and dissolution of the registered Orders. The High Militante possesses their own Order of knights that serve as one of the largest and most skilled forces in the Empire's existence, with no other Order under the Circle or the Empire's banner possessing such power, size, or skill on their side. It is the High Militante and his Order that leads the Knights Circle in large-scale crusades and wars, although most Orders are independent entities for the most part and can usually function without external assistance.

Imperial Armada
The Imperial Armada (Old Tongue: Classis Maritimus - Sea Fleet) is the naval force of the Empire that consists of many sea-faring flotillas from across the Empire, usually supplied by nations that reside near seas and oceans and making use of lifestyles that revolve around them. The Imperial Armada serves a multifunctional purpose; while it is primarily designed and structured for war, it is also used as a means of transporting resources and militia between territories and allies across the waters. The Imperial Armada is divided into Fleets, with their hierarchies, models and equipment varying depending on their places of origin. As not all Fleets are the same in terms of weaponry and strategy, each one is differentiated in terms of strength, number and profession.

Ships of the Empire are usually recognized by their flags, which either don the shared banner of those under the Empire or the flag of a Fleet's nation. The Imperial Armada's purpose is to explore the world and allow for the expansion of the Empire while transporting materials, nobles and soldiers in order to secure colonies and establish territories. The Imperial Armada is also given the responsibility of combating piracy and other seafaring criminals who seek to escape punishment from the Empire such as rogue sorcerers. The purposes of the ships within the Imperial Armada range between models, with some intended for scouting and patrolling while others were intended for defensive transporation and delivering heavy damage to enemy vessels.

The Imperial Armada is represented by a multitude of politicians from across the Empire although is directly overseen, directed and governed by a series of individuals collectively known as the High Admirals. The High Admirals govern a specific sector where the Imperial Armada operates, such as one High Admiral being deployed to oversee the Northern oceans while another being assigned to the Western seas. The High Admirals discuss political matters revolving around materials and support between themselves, keeping a balance over the many Fleets of the Imperial Armada in order to maintain full effectiveness and efficiency on all sides and within all sectors.

Inquisition
"There's more to the Inquisition than fear, surprise, ruthless efficiency, an almost fanatical devotion to the Grand Monarch, and nice black uniforms. We are humanity's first and foremost line of defense, the army greater than the State Military and the knights combined, the army nobody expects. We fight enemies without 'as well as within - had we not stood to protect it, the Empire would have long since been gone."

The Inquisition (Old Tongue: Vigiles Secreta - Secret Police) is the is the background enforcers of the Empire and serve as its inside protectors and defenders, seperate from the other military sub-factions in that it is responsible in the discovery and elimination of internal threats such as insurrection and corruption. The Inquisition's duty is to ensure the internal defense and protection of the Empire's powers and territories alongside dealing with otherwise-prohibited practices such as magic and unauthorized connections with external societies. To effectively manage such tasks, the Inquisition is divided into various Sects which are each assigned a specific role to fulfill.

The Inquisition's Sects vary in their resources, sizes, and tactics, although most are known to employ stealth and assassination-orientated practices in order to route out their enemies while some others are known for terror strategies for mass destruction against their enemies. Agents of the Inquisition are equipped and funded at the expense of the government of the Empire, with some veteran-ranking operatives being authorized to use alien equipment and Source talents; two of the most controversial crimes within the Empire, although the Inquisition operates beyond standard law so long as it ultimately benefits the Empire.

Hierarchy varies between Sects, with no single standard form of ranking structure amongst them although most, if not all, Sects possess effective methods of distinguishing position and rank within themselves, mainly between lesser and major Inquisitors. Inquisitorial philosophy dictates that every and all individuals are neither immune nor safe from suspicion, including fellow Inquisitors, politicians, and even the Grand Monarch, who may be condemned if they act outside of the established constitutions. This gives the Inquisition a degree of authority over the State Military, Knights Circle and Imperial Armada which they can act upon at any given time during missions and assignments as well as the capability to operate outside of political supervision.

Only the most specialized and elite of individuals are able to join the Inquisition, with some being raised and trained from birth and young ages. The Inquisition's recruitment process is both unforgiving and fatal, as a means to select the most capable of trainees who may proceed to become powerful operatives in the future. Those who operate within the Inquisition are exempt from family ties and friendships, as such are seen as moral barriers, and are often cold and harsh as an example of their training and philosophy, trusting no-one. Inquisitors are also known to be deployed across the Empire, with no official residence and instead travelling and resting wherever is necessary, meaning most Inquisitors are isolated from one another and find it difficult to form complex relationships and bonds.

The Inquisition is represented by a select group of individuals although is ultimately led and maintained by the Inquisitorial Elder-Commander, who speaks on behalf of the Inquisition within the Table of Governors. The Inquisitorial Elder-Commander is considered one of the closest individuals to the Grand Monarch and, due to their age and experiences, a valuable mentor during the start of their reign. The Elder-Commander possesses command over all Inquisitorial personnel, assets and resources and personally oversees all Inquisition activity, including the founding of new Sects and the disbanding of others, both of which are rare. Pêro Crimsonshield= "A great storm is coming upon our world. The Inquisition's mission is to ensure that humanity survives it."
 * Name: Pêro Crimsonshield
 * Position: Elder-Commander
 * Sect: Malleus Ater
 * Ethnicity: Manorian
 * Age: 43

Hero of the Empire, 'Pêro Crimsonshield is the current leader of the Imperial Inquisition, having inherited his position after the previous Elder-Commander, Françoise Goldthorp, was killed in a Lympharian attack. The head of Malleus Ater, an elite Inquisition sect that Adalla, Javina and Alfgund belong to, Pêro is a veteran of thousands of battles, a mighty swordsman and a source of inspiration for all Imperials. He has personally indoctrinated each of his proteges, whom he treats as if they were his own children, and it is thanks to his training that Malleus Ater is considered to be one of the deadliest Inquisition sects in the Empire.

Nowadays, however, Pêro no longer fights himself, dedicating most of his time to governing the Inquisition's operations instead. Due to the fame he has gathered over the years of exemplary service, he is one of the most respected members of the Table of Governors and a public figure in the noble courts of the Empire; even the Grand Monarch herself favours the Elder-Commander. Despite his popularity among both nobility and the common folk, though Pêro tries to distance himself from his admirers, spending most of his free time in the Inquisitorium alone.

Adalla Steamheart= "Service is its own reward."

A scion of one of Xa'in's noble houses sent to the Inquisition as per one of the Islanders' pacts with the Empire, Ae Adalla (known as Adalla Steamheart in the Empire) is one of the Inquisition's greatest assets, and has been Pêro's loyal confidante, advisor and enforcer for years. Unlike the Elder-Commander, who is a public figure, Adalla prefers to keep to himself. Always in the shadows, unseen but always felt, he controls the Inquisition's more underhanded operations, ranging from espionage to terrorism. Trained in engineering in his distant homeland, Adalla is also directly responsible for many of the deadly weapons and arcane machines the Inquisition employs, and it is said that it was him who masterminded the Empire's industrialisation efforts after the War for the Eye.
 * Name: Ae Adalla
 * Position: High Advisor
 * Sect: Malleus Ater
 * Ethnicity: Xa'in
 * Age: 31

Adalla's personality reflects his position in the Empire; he's a shadow. A dark, mysterious figure, he appears to be quite reserved, keeps his thoughts to himself and generally only seeks to enforce Pêro's will. Few actually know what transpires in the mind of the High Advisor; some believe he is secretly an anti-Imperial sympathiser, whereas others think he seeks to overthrow his master or even the Grand Monarch. There are even rumours, it is said, that the Elder-Commander is actually nothing but one of Adalla's magitech clockwork machines, skillfully crafted to imitate life, and that it is Adalla who in fact rules the Inquisition...

Javina Desertsun= "Have a problem? Set it on fire."
 * Name:
 * Position: Inquisitor Hunter
 * Sect: Malleus Ater
 * Ethnicity: Alhassan
 * Age: 24

Out of the countless inquisitors in service of the, Javina Desertsun is among the most infamous. A fanatic at heart, she has proven her worth among her peers for her ruthless efficiency, stalwart loyalty, fanatical devotion to the Inquisition's cause and above all, her pure unstoppable hatred. It is what drives her forward, gives her power and protects her; no matter how dire is the battle, hate will keep her alive and standing as long as the enemies of Man still draw breath.

One of the most prominent Inquisitors of the Empire, Javina has been sighted all over Koldenwelt, destroying threats to the Empire, whether within or without with surgical precision and lethality, respected by other humans and hated by almost everybody else. She is also known for her long history with the so-called Changeling Mistress, a mysterious shapeshifter whom Javina has sworn to hunt until the end of times.

Alfgund Stonesoul= "dum wabbit"


 * Name: Alfgund Stonesoul
 * Position: Inquisitor Paladin
 * Sect: Malleus Ater
 * Ethnicity: Mannazian
 * Age: 24

Carlini Skystrider†= "Light can illuminate the way. Light can comfort. Light can also burn."


 * Name: Carlini Skystrider (actual Karacay name unpronouncable)
 * Position: Acolyte Magus
 * Sect: Malleus Ater
 * Ethnicity: Karacay
 * Age: 18 at the time of death

Government
"Imperial politicians do not debate with their rivals until they are dead tired like Klaxxa, they do not spend all time trying to poison each other like elves and they do not dance around their precious hoards of gold all day like the Merovar - they recieve orders and execute them. There is a clear chain of command in the Empire - unlike you, we are intelligent enough to understand that our enemies are outside our borders, not inside them."

- Doge Marcurio Argentsea of L'Ammanori

The Empire of Man is primarily governed and maintained by a collection of politicians known as the Table of Governors, ranging from prime ministers to monarchs, who descend from nearly all territories and organizations of the Empire. Ethnic groups and military presences are known to possess representatives within the government, although the Empire is ultimately ruled and dictated by a single individual who is bound by various pre-established constitutions; the Grand Monarch, the highest authorital, political and militarial figure throughout all of the Empire who oversees all of the Empire's organized branches, territories, assets, and resources.

Each political representative is largely independent of the Grand Monarch's authority concerning their own territories and powers, although they abide under rules and laws set by the Grand Monarch in order to guide their territories and powers along the correct paths so as to not invoke suspicion of treachery, with such guidelines prohibiting non-hostile interaction with external societies without permission and agreement from the Grand Monarch and the Table and the outright almost-completely forbidden usage of the Source throughout all nations and peoples. Those that break these conditions are stripped of their political status by the Table, as well as sometimes within their own peoples, and run the risk of having their territories suffer as consequence of their "betrayal".

Table of Governors
The Table of Governors (Old Tongue: Mensa Ministrōrum - Board of Ministers) is the main governmental body of the Empire of Man under the Grand King himself and is tasked with keeping order within the Empire of Man on financial, economical, environmental and military aspects. The Table of Governors consists of the highest authorizing member of each nation under the Empire's territory, resulting in a mix of religious leaders, politicians and monarchs. The Table of Governors is necessary for balance and integrity within the Empire and each member is capable of being elected as the next Grand King, as the title itself is not hereditary. The Table of Governors is also capable of stripping the Grand King of his rule if he is found to be counter-productive to the Empire of Man's cause, such as being too weak or in support of demon worship and witchcraft. This is why it is important for the Grand King to gain the respect of the whole Table.

The Table of Governors will meet once every decade or so to discuss matters unknown to anybody outside of their politicial standing, alongside being joined by the Grand King himself. While it is unknown why they gather, it is often followed by a significant expansion of the Empire's territory and the elimination of many minor or lesser nonhumans. A governor can also be deposed of his position by the rest of the Table if they find him/her counter-productive, such as wanting to wage war against a fellow governor or unwilling to fight against the Empire's enemies without a legitimate reason. The Table of Governors will also gather if there is need of a new Grand King.

As of now, the Table of Governors consists of these men and women: Aadideva the Eminent= "It would be unwise of you not to listen to the one who speaks for Pheonas and Alhassal."
 * Name: Aadideva
 * Position: Sacrosanct Master of the Hallowdom
 * Province: Alhassal-tel-Fajim
 * Age: 59

Bohdaria= King Bohdaria is the ruling monarch of Bohdaria City, having over the city for over 45 years. He is known for his cruelty against his enemies, his immense loyalty to the Grand Monarch and his kindness towards his own people.
 * Name: Bohdaria
 * Position: King
 * City: Bohdaria City
 * Age: Unknown

He often gives parties to his people where the entire city is invite, save for those at guard duty. King Bohdaria is a wise and kind ruler, and though he dislikes nonhumans to a point, he isn't a xenophobe, a trait which has made him unpopular among the rest of mankinds' royalty. He often advises the other kings to open their borders to the elves, dwarves and other species and there are rumors he sought to find allies outside the Empire. He always wears heavy armor and is a gifted swordman.

Freya Mistwood= "Most representatives in Mensa Ministrorum stand for nations, cities, peoples - I represent the Source itself. I would recommend you to hold your distance."
 * Name: Freya Mistwood
 * Position: High Enchantress of the Imperial Academy of Mages
 * Province: Saphronian Hetmanate
 * Age: 42

Friedemann Ironhelm= "One day, humanity shall rise, and then, I will fight for it, like my ancestors before me."
 * Name: Marcurio Argentsea
 * Position: Furst of Mannazia
 * Province: Principality of Mannfürsttum
 * Age: 19

Marcurio Argentsea= "There is no profit in mindless conquest the Empire has been craving for so long."
 * Name: Marcurio Argentsea
 * Position: Doge of L'Ammanori
 * Province: City State of Manori
 * Age: 40

Pedro Redguard= "A great storm is coming upon our world. The Inquisition's mission is to ensure that humanity survives it."
 * Name: Pedro Redguard
 * Position: Elder-Commander of the Inquisition
 * Province: City State of Manori
 * Age: 43

Savva Blackhand= "Yes, of course. Numquam cademus... stars help Saphronia, stars help Saphronia..."
 * Name: Savva Blackhand
 * Position: Hetman
 * Province: Saphronian Hetmanate
 * Age: 36

Grand Monarch
"I am humanity."

- Grand Monarch Pyrene II

The Grand Monarch (Old Tongue: Dominus Aureus - Golden Lord) is the highest figure in the entirety of the Empire of Man's hierarchy, society and military. He commands all armies and military branches of the Empire and oversees the balance and ever-growing expansion of Mankind. The Grand King is exempt from most laws and is fully, legitimately capable of raising or lowering prices, accepting or denying nations of membership within the Empire and authorizing the use of magic. The Grand King resides at the very center of Imperial Central, the capital city of the Empire, and is regularly updated of progress of all members of the Empire as well as any discoveries made concerning enemy nations or scientific record and theory.

The Grand King, despite the title, is not a hereditary position and must be elected from a member of the Table of Governors, who rule beneath the Grand King's authority. The Grand King is only re-selected if the current one passes away or disappears after a select period of time. The Grand King is also capable of being de-throned by the Table if they agree that he is too weak or not beneficial to the Empire's cause, which is why each decision the Grand King makes is carefully thought out before being placed into practice. The Grand King also cannot impose a standard religion amonst the Empire and must instead compromise with the many various religions supported and worshipped by each member of the Empire, though he has the right to deny or exile zealous and fanatical nations. The Grand King is a beacon of hope and strength within the Empire and the title itself is said to be enchanted with unimaginable power.

The Grand King swears oath to various documents set in place by the Empire's founder and followers to progress Mankind onward without fault or error and is gifted with supposedly blessed armour and weaponry to boast his importance and significance to the Empire, usually constructed of ancient materials used by races now long deceased and extinct. The Grand King is to never leave the Imperial Central Palace, the residence of all Grand Kings, unless an event known collectively as the End Times occurs, in which the Grand King must venture forwarth and lead all the armies and forces of Mankind against whatever threat opposes them. Pyrene II= "As I command, so shall it be."
 * Name: Pyrene of L'Ammanori
 * City: Imperial Center
 * Age: 34

Elected Grand Monarch after a long and fierce debate in the Board of Ministers, Pyrene II of l'Ammanori is considered to be an extremely divisive figure both among Imperials and non-Imperials. Born of house Vastre, known among the other l'Ammanori noble families for their wealth, greed and a tolerant attitude towards nonhumans, Pyrene does not believe in the warmongering ways of the old Grand Monarchs. A cunning diplomat and negotiator, she instead seeks to achieve human dominance through peaceful means: she abhors war and only sees it as the last resort.

Since her coronation, Pyrene II has been working to lessen the tensions between the Empire, the Sovereign and Ar-Klith, and has signed numerous treaties and military pacts with the Ouroboros Circle and the Lord Protector to stabilise the situation in the Orient. However, her rule has also been marked with rapid expansion of Imperial domains; under her, humanity consolidated its rule in Saphronia and Alhassal, claimed multiple islands in the Forlorn Sea and allied numerous non-human factions, notably the Astral dwarves of the Biennsar Ridge, essentially taking them under the Empire's protectorate. Pyrene also has no intention of weakening humanity's military might: the Knightly Orders of the Empire are strong as ever, prepared to strike against the enemies of Man.

Pyrene is thus seen as a controversial leader in the history of humanity, having many supporters as well as opponents. Some in the Board of Ministers see her as a weak, guillible ruler or even a puppet of the Sovereign; others praise her for her political savvy and silver tongue. The opinion of elves and Klaxxa on her reign is likewise polar: while many in the Sovereign and Ar-Klith support the treaties she has proposed and wish for the end of tensions in the Orient, not everyone truly trusts her. Does the human queen truly want peace or is she a warmonger in disguise, preparing for all-out war in secret? Nobody knows. The true intentions of Pyrene II are an enigma, and the secretive monarch does not intend to reveal them.

†Ermenrich I= Coming soon

Cities
Imperial Central= Imperial Central is the capital of the Empire of Man and a monument to Mankind's achievements and progress. Imperial Central resides across a flat plane that extends for a great many kilometers is home to many large, prosperous towns and villages inside its walls. Imperial Central is thought to be located atop of one of humanity's most ancient sites and is said that artefacts from the days before the Elvish races reside beneath the city, although only the Table of Governors and the Grand King himself know for sure. Imperial Central is one of the most prosperous cities of Mankind's construction and houses many important, iconic sites such as the Imperial Central Palace, the residence of the Grand King himself. Imperial Central itself is divided between three wall formations; two circular formations that surround the outer and middle layers and a diamond-shaped formations which surrounds the Imperial Central Palace as well as protect its exterior. These walls are ages old and were originally designed to protect Mankind from nonhuman armies and militia, but also represent Mankind's sturdy and enduring heart. These walls usually stand at 25 meters tall and are protected with cannons, crossbowmen and riflemen. The race that built Imperial Central was the Mannaz, the founding race of the Empire of Man and the main ethnic group of Imperial Central's culturally diverse population. The Mannaz built Imperial Central over their ancient ancestral homes once they discovered how to build complex structures, the walls that protect Imperial Central being an example of this. Imperial Central houses many towns and villages within itself as a city and uses them for food and material resources. Imperial Central is constantly patrolled by a division of elite knights and state soldiers who are divided between each town and village within the walls. Perhaps one of the more remarkable sites found within Imperial Central is the Eternal Alloy Monarch, a statue of the first Grand King in almost-divine armour which is surrounded by a complex system of fountains which produce supposedly-blessed water that is not legal to drink or steal.
 * Name: Imperial Central
 * Age: 200 years
 * Population: 12,000 citizens, 20,000 state soldiers, 15,000 knights
 * Ruler: Grand King

Bohdaria= Bohdaria City is one of the most isolated cities, nestled on a tall mesa far from the main trade routes of the empire. Located at the junction of the grass plains and the desert, it endures heavy heat during the day, but is freezing cold at night. Its location, however, is a great provider, as the Bohdarians (the humans of the city are called this way) are great farmers and the ground around the city is some of the most fertile in the empire.
 * Name:Bohdaria City
 * Age: Around 100 years.
 * Population: around 125 citizens
 * Ruler: King Bohdaria

The city is built upon a hill, surrounded by a river that makes it easily defendable from her high walls. The houses are built in the outer circle, while in the middle of the city stands the capital building, home to the city's king and his family. The building style of the Bohdarians is remarkable, with blue roofs and ornate brown stone. Bohdaria City seems to have some connection to the Urindale Elves of the Northern Region due to a statue of their God found beneath its streets.

Individuals (other)
Elika Bohdaria= Elika Bohdaria is the daughter of King Bohdaria, princess of Bohdaria and heir to the throne. Bold and a bit stubborn, she is as gifted with a sword as her father and for that is called the Shieldmaiden of Bohdaria. She is trained as a soldier, but also has traits of a princess, with her proud manners and fondness for dresses and jewelry.
 * Name:Elika Bohdaria
 * City:Bohdaria City
 * Age: 26

A crucial dofference sets her apart fromthe king. She is quite xenophobic, and dislikes her father's policies towards allowing nonhumans inside the empire. The reasons for her hatred against none humanoids is easily explained, she was taught this during her years of schooling though she has never met an elf or dwarf before.

Elika wears a golden blue armor, signaling her status as shieldmaiden of Bohdaria.

Leo Stahlheim= "The Grand Monarch shall not fall as long as I stand."
 * Name:
 * Position: Captain of the Honor Guard
 * Ethnicity: Mannaz
 * Age: 38

Among warriors of the Empire only few command such a great amount of respect as Leo Stahlheim, known more commonly by his nickname, Dragonslayer. Serving the Empire as the captain of the Honor Guard, he is a prominent military figure and also famed for his skill with a spear. Clad in highly decorated golden armor, he is often seen as heroic and associated with legends by the populace.

While Leo has sworn his absolute loyalty to the Empire, unbeknownst to everyone he is a servant to. His status as an Avatar of the Hunt grants him agility beyond that of any normal human, causing many to become suspicious of him.

Allies
"You serve as a benefit for our cause."


 * Islanders - One day, we shall stand unified.

Neutral
"Stand aside and do not oppose us."


 * - What are you without your craft? Nothing. Nothing!
 * - Even dragons will have to step aside before us.
 * - What a disquieting reservoir of species...
 * - Of your inferiority there can be no question.
 * - Stay on your isles.

Disliked
"You're walking on thin ice. Remember this."


 * - You are naught but a relic of the past. Return to the earth you love so dearly.
 * - We shall drown your Sultan in liquid gold.
 * - We shall cleanse your parasitic stain from our land.
 * - Demons.

Enemies
"You shall be crushed under the armoured boot of Mankind."


 * - Filth.
 * - Hellspawn.
 * - Degenerates.

Quotes
"Of all Deiwos kind, you are second only to the Shiarchon as the worst of all!"

"HUMIE BONES MAKE FINE CRAKIN SOUNDS"

"You keep away from our cities, you pink-skinned bastards."

- Sultan Megrovaz II of the

"So much blood...so much opportunity..."

"High numbers. More to gaze upon the Maw."

"I shall take your king's skull and wear it as a crown, insolent peasants!"

"All hail the Empire!"

"So much flesh to reap."

"Humans so small! Is funny to me."

- Lesha Orc Chieftain

"Brr. Xenophobes."

- Lord Protector Arken-Lak

"Young, arrogant. Disrespectful to nature. Unbelievers in the Source, and ignorant of higher powers. Perhaps one of the few civilisations that have earned my distaste."

- Kinmorunddraver-World Walker

"Spurca creant celantque incestus. Portare sanguinem, et infirmus ero vobis? Circumdantibus ignorare ingenia sunt? Tantum ad ostium effundet sanguinem eorum. (Filthy spawns of incest. To bear our blood, and to be as weak as you are? Ignorant of the natural powers that surround them? Merely a door to spill their blood. )"

- Shiarchon

"Unwashed, uncivilized, uncouth cretins. Stay away from our city."

- Official from the City-State of Halifaxia

"Quemadmodum desiderat cervus ad fontes aquarum ita desiderat anima mea ad te, hūmānitās. Sed in primis ad fontes ipsos properandum."

"Hmmph. You need to learn respect. As well as proper military work. I'd gladly show you both."

"I really don't like the rest of my race much..."

"PUNY OOMANS IS PROPA TASTY HURHURHUR"

"The perfect race to feed the trolls! I will FEAST ON THEIR FLESH AND TEAR APART THEIR BONE FOR MY USAGE!"

=Notes=

Trivia

 * The Empire of Man is a shared fiction, although the greatest contributors to it are and.
 * The official colours of the Empire of Man - red, yellow, white and black - allude to the flag of the Human Race proposed during the 1960s, as well to the many historical imperial regimes that used some of them.
 * Europa by Triarii is the Empire of Man's theme.