Reponse to the Fallen Montseran Empire

The purpose of this first manifesto from King Valentin was a well thought out statement of intention. Whilst it did not discuss the specifics of how the governing of Tordronnen was to be carried out in future, nor his and the other nobility's role within it, the message of his ceding of individualised power was clear.

The original signed document is kept on display in the Museum of Verodeen, whilst the words of the decree itself have been carved into a memorial at the entry to the High Council chambers also in Verodeen.

Royal decree, signed by King Valentin with witness signatures of members of the High Council and the Crown Prince.

King Valentin had been endeavouring for a number of years to return a sense of fairness to the rule of Tordronnen, something that had been lost through the selfish and unjust actions of his predecessors. However, his efforts had proved ineffectual in the face of his people and the ongoing pressure of the Montseran Empire to the south. He saw the sudden collapse of this previously untouchable power as a warning of what he could face at the hands of his own people. When faced with the thought of his own people acting in rebellion against him, instead of going on the offensive he decided instead to make the change on his own terms. He could see that the monarchy was unlikely to survive into the turning of the century and rather than be forced out through violence, at a time when his people needed to be strong and united, he sought to give them back the power to govern themselves in a way that could become sustainable.

The public reaction to this document was initially one of surprise. As much as there was growing unrest and many calls for increased power for the High Council, such a dramatic relinquishment of power from the King, especially one with no apparent preceding rebellious action, was unexpected. Over the course of the next decade where steady changes and adjustments were made to the leadership the public view of King Valentin was remarkably positive. To the point that when the final ceremonial departure of the crown from the High Council chambers took place there was a great crowd gathered watching in silence akin to that of a funeral. In the end there was no objection to the King taking up the position as the first Head Chair of the High Council, knowing and trusting him to set the unbiased and fair precedent to the role.

Following the death of King Valentin his son Aldous chose not to take up the title of king, believing in the vision his father held for the governing of Tordronnen. However it was agreed that the role of Head Chair would be passed on to Aldous and remain within his family as a sign of faith from the people in the legacy of King Valentin's plans. 

Whilst certain families have retained their noble titles, these are more symbols of their land ownership and financial status now rather than any strict governing powers.