The Council:

Within the world of Illyreon, two primary governing bodies hold sway: the Council and the Village Heads. The Council serves as the governing authority of The Hub, primarily composed of patriarchs from the wealthiest and most influential mercantile houses. These families form an aristocratic upper class that dominates The Hub’s socio-economic and political landscape. The Council was originally established with seven seats, each reserved for the patriarchs of The Hub’s founding families: House Trywin, House Bellon, House Bornn, House Sirandus, House Veroon, House Wallic, and House Randuin. Since The Hub’s founding an additional thirty-three members have been added to represent the ever-expanding city. While, in principle, all seats on the Council are equal in privilege and influence, the original seven seats held by the founding houses retain significant sway over Council matters.

Before the catastrophic events of the Ruin that devastated the old capital city, these families were relatively minor households, holding little influence in the broader socio-political hierarchy; however, the immense destruction brought about by the Ruin reshaped the balance of power across the region. In the chaos that followed these families emerged as pillars of stability, offering leadership, resources, and a vision for recovery. By stepping into the void left by the destruction of the old capital, they not only secured their legacies but also laid the foundation for a thriving new power in the region.

Their rise to prominence coincided with the founding of The Hub, a new centre of commerce and governance born out of necessity. These families seized the opportunity to unite displaced communities, stabilize trade, and provide essential services. These families were the architects of The Hub’s early prosperity, their immense wealth and influence stemming from their dominance in key industries. As The Hub grew, these families transformed their unofficial dominance into an institutionalized ruling body. Yet behind their polished facades, every council member pursues their own agenda relentlessly—no matter the impacts or benefits to the city. While some councillors use their influence to better the city and take their position as a serious responsibility, others use it for personal gain and power.

Village Heads:

Village Heads are elected representatives who govern the numerous small villages, hamlets, and trading posts scattered across Illyreon. Tasked with managing local affairs, their responsibilities span administration, civic management, and minor law enforcement. These Heads are more than just officials, they are the trusted leaders of their communities, chosen by their neighbours and peers for their integrity, wisdom, and ability to represent the village’s interests effectively. Their role is essential in maintaining the fabric of society, particularly in these often remote and tightly-knit settlements.

To ensure their leadership remains aligned with the community’s needs, Village Heads regularly hold town hall meetings, fostering open discussions about local concerns. Heads are elected through a majority vote and they must retain the trust and confidence of their communities to remain in office. If a Head fails to uphold their responsibilities or loses public trust, the townsfolk can vote by majority to remove them from power.

While the Council’s direct influence ebbs and flows within the villages, cooperation with The Hub remains vital for the prosperity and survival of these communities. The Hub serves as a central lifeline for trade, resources, and technology, making a strong relationship between the Council and the villages essential. The Heads, as representatives of their settlements, play a crucial role in fostering this connection.

Beyond managing their local affairs, Heads are expected to attend the annual Accord of Horizons, a pivotal, week-long event, that is held within the Sunlit Chamber, the location of all council meetings. Bringing together the Council and the village leaders, this meeting is far more than a formality for the Heads, it is a platform where policies, shared visions, and strategies for the future are discussed and shaped. The Accord provides an opportunity to address pressing issues such as trade, resource allocation, and security concerns, ensuring that the voices of even the most remote settlements are heard within The Hub’s halls of power. The Accord of Horizons also stands out as one of the rare occasions where the common people are granted a direct voice in shaping policies. During this event, Heads can cast votes on key issues, providing input on matters that extend beyond their immediate communities. This participatory element underscores the Accord’s role as a unifying force, ensuring that governance remains connected to the will of the people, even in a world where power often rests with the elite.

The Accord has become a cornerstone of Illyreon’s calendar, blending governance with celebration. The Accord has evolved into a vibrant festival, drawing participants and spectators from all corners of Illyreon. These displays not only highlight the progress and ingenuity of the region but also inspire collaboration and knowledge-sharing among communities.