Nation Info

Basic knowledge

Bontrant is a nation ruled by a unique democratic system. In every village, a single statue allows citizens to vote on daily issues. The magic behind the statues seems almost sentient, ensuring only those with knowledge of the events can vote. The topics for voting are chosen by an unknown intelligence, though most debates revolve around business and foreign policy. Despite the ambiguity, the people of Bontrant are content with the system.

Bontrant is the largest and most powerful nation in Lovant, boasting the world’s largest military. This military serves dual purposes: defending against external threats and maintaining internal order. Crime is rare, as the nation’s reach is vast, and there is no safe haven for criminals.

The nation is a melting pot of religions, with no single faith dominating. About 15 years ago, the kingdom of Gondor fell to a dragon and was absorbed into Bontrant, further solidifying its dominance.

Military

Articles of War and Military Doctrine

Preamble: The strength and security of Bontrant are forged in the dedication of its free citizens who choose to stand as guardians of its lands, protectors of its principles, and enforcers of its just laws. Service in the armed forces is a voluntary commitment, a testament to the profound civic duty felt by the people of Bontrant.

I. Core Military Doctrine: Strategic Vigilance and the Preservation of Order

1. Constant Readiness: Bontrant’s military shall maintain a state of perpetual preparedness to deter and counter any threat, whether external aggression or internal disruption. Key strategic assets, most notably the naval strength anchored at Discernia, will be held in a state of high alert.
2. Expeditious Mobilization of Volunteers: Recognizing that service is freely rendered, the military shall possess highly efficient protocols for the swift assembly and deployment of those who volunteer their strength. Regular voluntary exercises and robust communication networks are vital to ensuring rapid response capabilities.
3. Integrated Arms and Specialized Roles: The armed forces of Bontrant embrace a combined arms approach, fostering seamless cooperation between land-based legions and the esteemed naval forces of Discernia. Furthermore, individuals possessing unique skills, including those versed in the arcane arts, shall be integrated into specialized roles to maximize their effectiveness.
4. Proactive Intelligence Gathering: The acquisition and analysis of information concerning potential adversaries and internal destabilizing factors are paramount. The Intelligence Bureau, a dedicated branch, is tasked with this critical responsibility.
5. Central Command and Decentralized Execution: Strategic direction and resource allocation are the purview of Central Command, formally located within The Citadel of Strategy in Intellectia. However, operational commanders in the field are granted the authority and expected to exercise initiative in achieving their objectives. The physical location of Central Command shifts as dictated by the deployment of the highest-ranking officers.
6. Strategic Considerations and the National Vote: The military acknowledges the right of all citizens, including military personnel, to participate in national votes on matters of significant import. While the military cannot initiate such votes, the High Command must carefully consider the potential for their actions to trigger a national vote, requiring a delicate balance between decisive action and public sentiment.

II. Laws and Codes of Conduct for Military Personnel

1. Duty to Obey: All personnel are bound to obey the lawful orders of their superior officers. However, this obedience is predicated on the understanding that all actions must ultimately serve the interests of Bontrant. If an order is given that directly conflicts with Bontrants interests, it is the duty of each officer to question the order.
2. Civilian Authority: The armed forces exist to serve and protect the nation and its established governance. Respect for civilian authority is a fundamental tenet.
3. Voluntary Oath: Upon entering service, individuals freely swear an oath to uphold the principles and defend the sovereignty of Bontrant. They are expected to honor this commitment with unwavering dedication.
4. Rules of Engagement and Ethical Conduct: Clear guidelines dictate the appropriate use of force, the humane treatment of captives, and interactions with civilian populations, including those within the integrated territories of former Gondor. Ethical conduct and adherence to the laws of war are paramount.
5. Regulations Governing Arcane Practitioners: Individuals skilled in the arcane arts (Wizards, Clerics, Eldritch Knights, Arcane Tricksters, Bards, etc.) within the military are subject to specific regulations regarding the application of their abilities. The Arcane Corps, a specialized branch, oversees the training, deployment, and ethical conduct of these individuals. Their roles encompass battlefield support (healing, tactical magic), reconnaissance, counter-magic, and strategic spellcasting.
6. Severe Penalties for Treason and Sedition: Any act of betrayal or attempt to undermine the security and stability of Bontrant will be met with the harshest possible sanctions.
7. Merit-Based Advancement: Promotion through the ranks is determined by a combination of time in service, exemplary performance of duties, demonstrated leadership capabilities, and unwavering loyalty to Bontrant.

III. Organizational Branches of the Military

1. The Land Legions: The core ground forces of Bontrant, organized into divisions, brigades, battalions, companies, platoons, and squads. These form the bulk of Bontrant’s military might and are responsible for territorial defense and ground operations.
2. The Naval Armada of Discernia: Based in the strategically vital port city of Discernia, this branch commands warships, transport vessels, and marine infantry. They safeguard Bontrant’s coasts, project naval power, and ensure maritime trade routes remain secure.
3. The Intelligence Bureau: Tasked with gathering, analyzing, and disseminating crucial information regarding potential threats, both foreign and domestic. Their methods may include conventional reconnaissance and the strategic application of divination magic.
4. The Arcane Corps: Comprised of individuals skilled in the arcane arts, this branch provides magical support and expertise across all military operations. They may be integrated into standard units or deployed in specialized magical detachments.
5. The Corps of Engineers: Responsible for the construction and maintenance of fortifications, siege weaponry, and logistical infrastructure. They may include individuals with specialized magical abilities related to construction and demolition.
6. The Quartermaster Corps: Overseeing the crucial task of supplying the military with provisions, equipment, and ammunition. Efficiency and logistical planning are their hallmarks.

IV. Logistics and Infrastructure

• Robust Supply Lines: The military prioritizes the establishment and maintenance of secure and efficient supply lines to support its forces throughout Bontrant’s territories.
• Strategic Fortifications and Garrisons: Key locations, including Intellectia, Discernia, Judicar, Sagehaven, and Thoughtford, are fortified and garrisoned to ensure their security and project power.
• Academies of War and Strategy: Institutions dedicated to the training of officers and specialized personnel in military tactics, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership.

V. Principles of Intervention: While absolute obedience is expected, should a clear and substantial majority within a military unit believe their commanding officer is acting in direct opposition to the well-being and sovereignty of Bontrant, and all other avenues of communication and redress have been exhausted, that unit may, as a last resort and with extreme caution, take necessary action to preserve the nation’s interests. Such action will be subject to rigorous post-incident review and justification.

These articles and doctrines serve as the guiding principles for the voluntary defenders of Bontrant, ensuring its continued security and upholding the values upon which the nation is founded.

The First King

King Aldemar Brenotralia

“all-da-mar Bren-oh-tral-lia”

The first king of Bontrant
Born Mistfire 11th, 125 B.V.
Died Moondream 20th, 45 B.V.

Reign: 112 BV - 45 BV
Title: The First King of Bontrant, Founder of the Coalition

Aldemar was a charismatic and visionary leader who rose to power during a time of chaos and division among the warring tribes and city-states of the region. Known for his sharp intellect and mastery of magic, Aldemar united the disparate groups under a single banner through a combination of diplomacy, strategic alliances, and, when necessary, decisive military action.

Rise to Power

Aldemar began as a lesser noble from the coastal city of Thoughtford, where he gained renown for his ability to mediate conflicts and his innovative use of magic to solve problems. When the region was threatened by an invasion from the eastern warlords, Aldemar rallied the tribes and city-states, forming a coalition to repel the invaders. His leadership during the War of the Broken Spear (115 BV - 113 BV) and his guidance is signing The Pact of Eryndral solidified his reputation as a unifier.

After the war, the coalition leaders gathered in Valenmar to decide the future of the region. Aldemar proposed a centralized kingdom to ensure lasting peace and prosperity. Though some resisted, his vision won out, and he was crowned the first king of Bontrant on Sunfire 12th 112 BV.

The Founding of Bontrant

Aldemar’s first act as king was to establish the Council of the Coalition, composed of the leaders who had fought alongside him. These individuals were granted noble titles and lands, forming the early aristocracy of Bontrant. However, Aldemar’s rule was not without controversy.

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Second King

King Le'mon Brenotralia

“le-mon Bren-oh-tral-lia”

The second king of Bontrant
Born Sunfire 22nd, 69 B.V.
Died Moondream 32nd, 9 B.V.

Reign: 45 BV - 9 BV

King Le’mon Brenotralia inherited a prosperous kingdom from his father, Aldemar Brenotralia, but he recognized the seeds of potential stagnation. While Bontrant was united, Le’mon saw that true strength lay not just in unity but in the active participation of its citizens. He was a thoughtful and progressive ruler, deeply concerned with the well-being of his people and the future of Bontrant.

Le’mon embarked on a series of reforms aimed at empowering the populace. He established councils in every major city, where citizens could voice their concerns and contribute to local governance. He invested heavily in infrastructure, building roads, canals, and public works that improved trade and the quality of life for all. Understanding the importance of knowledge, Le’mon founded academies and libraries, fostering an environment of learning and innovation.

Under Le’mon’s rule, Bontrant flourished. Trade boomed, art and culture thrived, and the kingdom’s influence expanded not through conquest but through diplomacy and the spread of its enlightened ideals. Le’mon was a beloved king, known for his wisdom, his compassion, and his unwavering belief in the potential of his people. He would often walk among his subjects in disguise, listening to their concerns and offering assistance wherever he could.

However, King Le’mon believed that even with all that he had done, the true potential of the kingdom was still untapped. He believed that the people should have a greater say in how the kingdom was run, and so he set about creating a system where the people themselves would be the true rulers of Bontrant. He created the statue system allowing the people to vote directly on issues with no bureaucracy required. However, the final spell required to activate the magic was too much for the 60 year old man, he passed away while activating the statues.

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Historical Events Calendar

Below are notable yearly events tied to Bontrant’s calendar.

Sunfire

New Years

Sunfire 1st
The day to celebrate the new year with everyone. Most see this as a day to set a new resolution for the coming year, while other see it as a perfect chance to look back and reflect on their mistakes.

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Day of Unity

Sunfire 15th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
The “Day of Unity,” marking the absorption of Gondor into Bontrant. Parades and military displays are held to showcase the nation’s strength.

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Sunshadow

Night of Shadows

Sunshadow 30th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
The “Night of Shadows,” a mysterious event where the statues glow faintly. Some claim to hear whispers, though most dismiss it as superstition. This day is sometimes refered to as the “Holy Voting Day” as some believe the faint glow indicates that the years votes have been aligned with their chosen god(s).

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Starfrost

Kemori

Starfrost 7th
A minor holiday
The holiday celebrating the vast sea and its bounties.

Usually people only eat seafood on this day. Seafood is also usually half off on the week leading up.

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Starlight

Day of Enlightenment

Starlight 1st
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
A day when the statues present a rare philosophical question for debate. These votes are often the most contentious, as they challenge the citizens’ beliefs.

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Moonlit Duel

Starlight 10th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
A day when a ceremonial combat held in the capital. The winner is granted a boon by the statues, though the nature of the boon varies, it usually is a small boost to the persons magical power. Wealthy merchants often sponsor participants to gain prestige, or to gain a valuable magician for future use.

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Skyfire

Day of Valor

Skyfire 10th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
A day honoring Bontrant’s military. Soldiers march through the streets, and citizens are encouraged to donate to veterans’ causes.

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Mistfire

Day of Remembrance

Mistfire 36th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
A day dedicated to those lost in the fall of Gondor. Candles are lit, and the statues emit a soft, mournful glow.

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Mistfire Hunt

Mistfire 22nd
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
A traditional game where participants chase a magical fox through the forests. The winner is said to gain magical favor, and obvious prestige.

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Moonblossom

Starlight Bazaar

Moonblossom 36th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
During this day, a grand market where wealthy merchants showcase their finest goods is founded all throughout Bontrant. From the coastal city, the capital, even to the “freshly” added Judicar. It’s also a time for political maneuvering, as merchants vie for influence and power. For this one day, merchants from across the world gather to buy, sell, and barter the most rare goods found, formed, and conjured.

While the holiday lasts the entirety of Moonblossom 36th, it only really gets started after the sun sets. As during this day the stars seem to shine particularly brightly. Additionally astral phenomena occurs at a higher rate than usual.

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Moondream

Day of Dreams

Moondream 12th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
A day when the statues present a vision to a randomly chosen citizen. These visions are often cryptic but are said to hold great significance.
It is clear who received the vision as they faintly glow with blue light from their eyes.

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Dreamer’s Banquet

Moondream 30th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
a feast held in honor of those who have received visions. This is a highly exclusive event, only those who have received visions or seers (magicians specialized in reading the future) are allowed to attend. Attendees share their interpretations, hoping to uncover hidden truths.

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Dreamember (Month 10)

Day of Reflection

Dreamember 10th
Practiced by: The nation of Bontrant
a day when citizens review the year’s votes and their outcomes.

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Christmas

Christmas is a day of giving. Most of the “civilized” world celebrates this holiday.
Give a gift to a friend, neighbor, co-worker, or stranger, and you will be rewarded later. (karma)

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Timeline of Major Historical Events

• Sunfire 12th, 112bv: ![[Timeline#112 B.V.#Sunfire#12th]]

• Moondream 32nd, 9 B.V.: ![[Timeline#9 B.V.#Moondream#32nd]]

• Starfrost 9th, 4av: ![[Timeline#4 A.V.#Starfrost#9th]]

• Sunshadow 2nd, 782av: ![[Timeline#782 A.V.#Sunshadow#2nd]]