Archclericy of Veluna
The Archclericy of Veluna is one of the most respected and spiritually influential nations in the Flanaess, known for its devotion to Rao, god of peace, reason, and serenity, and for its long-standing alliance with the Kingdom of Furyondy. Governed as a theocratic state where secular and religious leadership are deeply entwined, Veluna is a beacon of order, diplomacy, and religious tolerance in an often fractured world.
It is widely regarded as a center of theology, education, and enlightenment, and though its armies are not the largest, its moral authority and political influence are considerable.
Government and Leadership
- Veluna is ruled by the Canon of Veluna, a high priest of Rao who serves as both spiritual leader and head of state.
- The Canon governs alongside a Council of Bishops and secular nobles, forming a consensual theocracy that values rational discourse and unity.
- Though Rao is the state religion, faiths of allied deities (notably Heironeous, St. Cuthbert, and Zilchus) are welcomed and respected.
- Veluna is notable for its lack of hereditary monarchy; leadership is chosen based on piety, wisdom, and service.
Culture and Society
- Velunese culture prizes education, diplomacy, spiritual development, and moral discipline.
- The people are mostly Oeridian with some Flan ancestry, and they value community service, personal humility, and devotion to just causes.
- Temples, monasteries, and colleges of theology and philosophy are common, making Veluna a prime destination for scholars and clerics.
- Veluna’s legal system is based on Raoan doctrine, emphasizing reform over punishment, and mediation over retribution.
The Archclericy of Veluna is a land where wisdom governs, faith inspires, and peace endures—at least for now. Though some see Veluna as idealistic or soft, those who underestimate its resolve quickly discover the righteous steel beneath its serene exterior. It stands not only as a bulwark against tyranny, but also as a moral compass in a world too often led astray by fear and ambition.
Military
Military and Defense
- While known for its peace-loving ideals, Veluna maintains a disciplined and well-trained military, led by paladins, templars, and elite clergy.
- Its forces are often integrated with those of Furyondy, particularly along the Veng River and other shared borders with hostile powers.
- Knightly orders and clerical battalions supplement local militias, and many in Veluna are trained in the art of holy warfare against evil forces.
- Its defense doctrine emphasizes containment, protection of civilians, and surgical intervention against existential threats.
Religion
Religion
- Rao the Peacemaker is revered above all. His teachings permeate every level of Velunese life, from governance to village traditions.
- The High Temple of Rao in Mitrik is the single most important religious site for Raoan worshipers in the Flanaess.
- Other lawful and good-aligned deities are also honored, and interfaith dialogue is common.
- Clerics and paladins are held in high regard, often serving as local judges, teachers, and peacekeepers.
Foreign Relations
Diplomacy and Relations
- Veluna maintains a powerful mutual defense pact with Furyondy, sometimes called the Church-State Alliance.
- Relations with Verbobonc, Dyvers, and the Ulek states are friendly.
- Veluna stands in ideological and spiritual opposition to realms such as Iuz, the Horned Society, and the Pomarj.
- It often acts as a mediator in regional disputes, sending diplomats and peace envoys where others send armies.
Geography
- The Archclericy lies in the central-western Flanaess, west of the Velverdyva River and south of the Yatil Mountains.
- It shares borders with Furyondy, Verbobonc, and the Gran March, and remains culturally and politically aligned with the former.
- The land is a mix of fertile plains, rolling hills, and river valleys, with its people concentrated in pastoral towns and religious centers.
- Mitrik, the capital city, is home to the High Temple of Rao and many centers of learning and diplomacy.
Notable Locations
- Mitrik – Capital city and holy center of Raoan faith.
- Temple of the Heavens – An observatory and spiritual retreat in the eastern hills, blending celestial study with divine meditation.
- The Seminary of the Harmonious Word – One of the Flanaess’s most prestigious centers for religious training and philosophy.
- Velverdyva Crossing – A fortified river town and trade hub that also serves as a defense point against incursions from Dyvers or further upriver.
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