Political System in Lithar

Racial Demographic Humans 85%, Dwarves 5%, Halflings 5%, Gnomes 2%, Orcs 2%, Goblins 1%
Ruler His Royal Majesty, King of Lithar, Tanis Zaine
Relations      Lithar is a signature Realm of the Treaty of Confederation, and as such, is on good terms with most realms.  But Lithar has never been friendly with Edilar, and blames the elves for all three Mage Wars.  As such, they have laws against Elves owning property or having a permanent residence in Lithar, both to avoid the risk of further Sythian intrusions aimed at elves, and to minimize violent Litharian persecution of elves.
     Lithar is closest in relations with Tuth, which is ruled by the king's brother, Igor Zaine.
Government Structure       The government structure of Lithar is exactly like that of Tuth.  Both are a monarchy with a provision of rule that they have three advisors that they must listen to in the matters of great import to the kingdom.  This provision was instated at the time of both current kings' succession to their thrones.  Lithar and Tuth were once one realm, only known as Tuth.  The King, Paldrin Zaine, found the kingdom becoming too large for any one person to rule justly.  When it became apparent to him he had not much longer to live he divided the realm into two, naming one with the ancient name of Lithar.  He gave Tuth to his oldest son Igor, and the newly-renamed Lithar to the younger Tanis.  They were made king of each realm, and on coronation signed a pact with the people that they would rule justly and under advisement of the most capable advisors each realm had to offer.

    The King Tanis Zaine serves as the overall leader of the kingdom. He has appointed 3 advisors to keep track of different aspects of the kingdom and advise him at need.  They are: 
 
High Knight Starmblade Military
Priest Richelou Religious
Duke William of Athenia Political

     In addition to these three, the King's Imperial Archmage, Kallajh Mirtol, serves as an expert on the metaphysical and arcane.  He accompanies the advisors and king in case they are in need of his services.

     Once each month, or more often if there is a pressing matter, the advisors and the king hold an audience in the Hall of Power at the Royal Castle in Lithar's capitol. During these audiences, individuals may come and express their concerns or plead their case over any matter. Only a few non-important cases will be heard and adjudicated by the king at each meeting, but any cases dealing with state business will be decided at this time.  It is the practice of King Zaine to not let important matters fall too far behind without a decision being made.  He will at times keep the meetings running throughout the night, and hear many more mundane cases than required in order to let the Realm of Lithar run more smoothly, and know that he is in touch with their concerns.  Also during these monthly meetings, all military plans are discussed, and arguments are settled between the Nobles of Lithar.

     Lithar is a feudal society, with nobles owning most of the lands, and the King owning the greatest part of freely held lands.  Though slavery is illegal, there is a state of being a bond servant, similar to that of a serf, that work the lands of the nobles in payment for the use of their land and a promise to work those lands for profit.  Many bondsmen are indebted to the nobles for their entire life.
     The Realm of Lithar is divided into baronies that are ruled by knights sworn to the service of Lithar and the King.  Each of these barons control lands, either inherited or gained by building a castle or stronghold, and many have private men-at-arms to protect them.  The barons pay taxes to the Realm and their King for the right to rule these lands.
     If a knight is not a land owner, or cannot pay their taxes, then they become errant.  These errant knights either find service with another baron or seek service for the Realm or sometimes one of the churches.

     Though there is no state church in Lithar, The Church of Anthor holds great power, both political and secular, within the Realm.

This page last updated on 02/12/2001 .