The Ruthern Duana: Great Adminstrative Offices of the Balianese

[Kingdom of Balian 498]

THE ROYAL DUANA OF BALIAN

THE GREAT ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES OF THE BALIANESE

 

 

Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwqB652bJHE

 

 

The Royal Duana is the administrative council of the Crown. Each member of the Duana-besides the Amiratus-heads a specific office within the government. The members of the Duana are also considered the closest advisors to the Crown. 

 

Founded by King Alexander and his council, the Royal Duana is the petrine perversion of the eastern Diwan that was known to rule in states such as Ba’as. The Diwan and the Petrine council of the Holy Orenian Empire were considered one of the most advanced, efficient and effective systems of government known throughout the modern world. The Royal Duana is considered the spiritual successor to those great government systems.

The Royal Duana’s success in efficiently governing the Kingdom’s realm, established the council as the final institution of authority within Balian. Under the blessing of His Majesty King Adrian, the Royal Duana continues to govern Balian on behalf of the Crown. 

 

Like the Petrine governments of old, the body is made up of various secretaries that head government offices. However, the Duana itself maintains some cultural distinction by utilizing eastern titles such as Duana, Amiratus, Procurator, Legate, and more, along with adding a ministry devoted to maintaining positive relationships with the clergy.

 

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AMIRATUS OF THE ROYAL DUANA

 

The Mesa of the Crownlands, 109 SA

 

Heading the Duana is Balian’s Amiratus, who serves as penultimate authority in the realm. They can appoint a Vice-Amiratus to serve as their deputy, and are in charge of staffing the Duana as well as leading the executive government of the country. 

 

The title of Amiratus is notably found in the east, filling the role of Chancellor often found in the Wilvenland human kingdoms. However, it is also tied to the history of the Balthalites, or the people of Old Balian. The first recorded Amiratus in history was Edgar of Jrent, a priest who served as chief minister to the mythic hero Balthier, founder of Old Balian. Their legend can be found in the Second Tablet of the Lothar Stones.

 

The office of Amiratus is the most prestigious and influential political position in the Kingdom of Balian. They are responsible for the maintenance and governance of the realm, wielding penultimate authority and tasked with the preservation of the Balianese Crown, including in matters of succession. Colloquially, the Amiratus can be addressed as Chief Minister of Balian, and he or she also maintains the honorary title Seneschal of the Crown.

 

The current Amiratus is Gaius var Ruthern, who presides over the 1st Ruthern Duana.

 

 

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THE FIRST RUTHERN DUANA

—-Lord Amiratus Gaius var Ruthern—-

 

"The shoes of the Amiratus are no small shoes to fill, yet we are certain Lord Gaius will fill them well." - King Alexander I on the appointment of Gaius var Ruthern as Amiratus.

 

"Gaius is a trustworthy worker, who will involve himself in all necessary aspects of the King's government to work for a better Balian." - Ser Ledicort Vuiller 

 

Much akin to his mentor Ser Ledicort Vuiller, Lord Gaius Ruthern’s presence in the Duana was as constant and prominent as his predecessor. Gaius began his service to the Kingdom of Balian at the age of eleven, when he began his squireship under Lord Commander Peter of Arkent who inducted him into the Company of Balian, the standing military of the Kingdom. Whilst in the Company, Ledicort took him in as his ward in which the young Ruthern-under the guidance of both Ledicort and Peter-honed his political aptitude and his military prowess. Ledicort appointed Gaius Ruthern to the Secretary of the Interior at the age of sixteen, subsequently followed by his promotion to Corporal by Peter at the age of seventeen. 

 

As Corporal of the Company of Balian, Gaius followed in the footsteps of his Ruthern ancestors, where he continues to serve diligently in the defense of the Kingdom. His stalwart defense of the city of Atrus during the siege of Cloudbreaker and the undead, and his commitment to battling the Mori’Quessir in Norland and throughout Almaris displayed his bravery and loyalty to Balian, and his comradery to his fellow descendant-kind.

 

As Minister of the Interior, Gaius oversaw an influx of new immigrants into Balian soil whilst also overseeing and contributing to the beautification of the Balianese Crownlands. Gaius was also known as the right hand to his predecessor Ledicort Vuiller, assisting him in his duties as Amiratus. 

 

As the youngest Amiratus in the history of Balian, Gaius has dedicated himself to the betterment and expansion of Balian’s culture, education, economy, and military whilst using wisdom from the empire of old and through expanding the ideas of the new age . With Gaius Ruthern at the helm of the Duana, the Kingdom of Balian hopes to be led to a new age of prosperity and influence in the known world. 

 

“I take pride in the fact that I am the first Amiratus who was born on the soils of Balian. My roots are not in the old Petrine Empire, yet, I still take wisdom from my elders to help advise me as I navigate the waters of politics and foreign policy. It is without a doubt, however, that Balian’s future does not rely on copying the old, but rather focusing on the new and solely on the new. As Amiratus I aim to rediscover what it means to be Balianese; and focus on the new age whilst guiding my generation and the generation after me to take the lead as we shape this great nation into an era of prosperity and hegemony.” 

 - Lord Amiratus Gaius var Ruthern

 

 

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OFFICES OF THE DUANA

 

LEGATE

SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

 

The Secretary of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the world view of Balian as well as the pacts and treaties that the nation holds. It is their job to foster goodwill and relations with any other nation or settlement. They accomplish this namely by appointing ambassadors, organizing events, and attending diplomatic meetings. They maintain the title of ‘Legate of the Crown’ in their styling from the old chamber.

 

The current Secretary of Foreign Affairs is Princess Royal Elena Casimira

 

“As a young girl I have always been fascinated with different lands and cultures and traditions. Growing up I had the opportunity to travel and experience these cultures that once seemed strange to me. Through an open mind and understanding I grew my network of acquaintances into unforgettable friendships that will surely last me a lifetime. 

 

Warding under the previous Legate, I was given the freedom to explore and create connections and contacts which would eventually lead me to becoming the youngest ever ambassador in Balianese history. Through this opportunity I focused on creating peace and encouraging treaties which I will continue to implement as the Royal Legate.” - Princess Royal Elena Casimira, on her process of becoming Legate of the Crown.

 

To those interested in aiding the Duana in matters of Foreign Affairs, reach out to Princess Royal Elena Casimira or the Legate’s Office.

The Office of the Legate

 

 

CONSTABLE 

SECRETARY OF WAR

 

The Secretary of War, foremost among the officers, is responsible for the maintenance and command of the national army. They supervise all military personnel, auxiliaries, and mercenaries in the country. They also are tasked with protecting the lands from invasions, raids and rebellions in times of peace and war. They maintain the title of ‘Constable of the Crown’ in their styling from the old chamber.

 

The current Secretary of War is Dante DeNurem

 

“My experience sums up to constantly defending the Crown of Balian. In my time I’ve been sent on missions all over Almaris to further the objectives of Balian, my most notable mission being involved in the assault on Vienne, in which alongside our former Comrades in Acre, we ended the reign of King Frederick of Oren. 

 

But now we’re in a time of peace. The Kingdom of Balian works to continue building itself up, and towards a proper military force if necessary. Our people have suffered many hardships. But through our perseverance, we will succeed.” - Peter d’Arkent, on his tenure as Constable of Balian.

 

“Forever Golden” - Dante De Nurem

 

To those interested in aiding the Duana in matters of its national army, reach out to Dante DeNurem or the Company of Balian. [Maur#1123]

The Company of Balian

 

DOMUS MINISTRI

SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR

 

The Secretary of Interior manages the various holdings of Balian. They are responsible for the Ecumene, or land survey of Balian, ensure that the land as a whole is held to royal architectural standards, and approve new constructions made by the private efforts of noble and commoners alike. They also control the immigration into Balian, and are expected to maintain an immigration office and organize events and programs to help recruit new subjects into the kingdom.

 

The current Secretary of the Interior is Franz Sarkozic

 

To those interested in aiding the Duana in matters of land management, traffic, and immigration, reach out to Franz Sarkozic or the Office of the Interior.

The Office of the Interior

 

PROCURATOR 

SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY

 

The Secretary of the Treasury is the chief financial minister, entrusted with all of Balian’s financial matters, procuring more money for the Kingdom and looking over any spending of the nation. They ensure any debts paid, taxes collected and that all ministries are funded accordingly, along with organizing civil servants known as clerks that help them in these endeavors. They maintain the title of ‘Procurator of the Crown’ in their styling from the old chamber.

 

The current Secretary of the Treasury is Sir Ephrem Kervallen, Baron of Tuvia;

 

“Sir Ephrem became Secretary of the Treasury after having served in some other ways for the Kingdom. His office is one of great importance, the one in charge of the economic well-being of the Kingdom and the proper taxating and use of said money. Sir Ephrem’s office is one of mixes, introducing new ways of generating income while established on the base built by the previous Procurator, the Kingdom is eager to flourish once more like a flower on Spring.”

 

“I was tasked with one of the most important jobs in the Kingdom; Balian’s economy was left at a good state by the former Procurator yet I am a firm believer that things can always be better. My wish is to establish fair taxation, to generate events that will increase not only the name Balian has formed for itself during the years but also the economy; auctions, fairs and guilds.  ” - The Procurator’s Office, on the character of its captain, Baron Ephrem Kervallen.

 

To those interested in aiding the Duana in matters of its trade and finances, reach out to Baron Ephrem or the Procurator’s Office.

Recruitment from the Procurator Office

 

 

CENSOR 

SECRETARY OF CIVIL AFFAIRS

 

The Secretary of Civil Affairs is tasked with the matters of government documentation. They take minutes of important meetings, organize the government press and the Royal Balianese Academy, push initiatives on government literacy and transparency, and maintain the census in order to administer effective elections. Their goal is chiefly in documenting and relying the efforts of the government outward, and ensuring that the Balianese are regarded as a literate and educated people. They maintain the title of ‘Censor of the Crown’ in their styling from the old chamber.

 

The current Secretary of Civil Affairs is Princess Lydia Novellen

 

To those interested in aiding the Duana in matters of improving national literacy and census-keeping, reach out to Princess Lydia Novellen or the Department of Civil Affairs.

The Censor’s Office: Department of Civil Affairs

 

MAGISTER

SECRETARY OF JUSTICE 

 

The Magister is the head of the Magisterium, the Balianese Judicial system. They shall organize the Lawyers - both prosecution and defense, Legal Scribes, and Investigators (or Qaestors) of the Magisterium of the Crown. They shall administer and help oversee any legal cases and investigations that may come up, oversee and judge trials, cooperate with and advise the other Chambers of the Duana on legal adjacent affairs, and advise the Crown on the appointment of judges and on legal matters.

 

The current Magister is Robert Joseph de Lyons

 

“From my youth in the Petran Civil War to today, I have sought to apply myself to ensure the greater stability of the realm and the victory of impartial and fair justice over the corruption and violence within the world. To ensure the circumstances that claimed my father’s life and drove me from my old home to my new one do not happen to another generation.

 

Through the office with which I was entrusted, I seek to foster vigilance against crime within our Kingdom, to assure it is tried and punished swiftly and properly when it occurs, with a firm but thoughtful hand. To amend the laws as needed, to take on and train Lawyers, Scribes, Investigators, and Wards, and to work with the Crown and Duana to foster cooperation between chambers and to ensure the law is considered in our governance. The Magisterium grew small and ineffective in the time when the position of Magister was vacant, and I hope to do my best to regrow it and ensure its continued stable and effective operation in the years to come.” - Robyn de Lyons, on his goals for the Magisterium 

 

To those interested in aiding with Balian’s legal system, as a lawyer, scribe, or investigator, contact Robyn de Lyons or inquire about the Magisterium.

The Office of the Magister: The Magisterium

 

 

PRINCIPAL SECRETARY

 

The Principal Secretary is tasked with collecting intelligence and making internal reports within the Duana on potential improvements that may be made within the Kingdom of Balian. 

 

Regarded often as the left-hand of the Duana, they follow up on particular departments for the Amiratus to ensure that the administrative offices are hard at work and initiatives are being adjusted and met. They also drive innovation within the kingdom by brainstorming new and novel ideas across departments, and hold the responsibility of declassifying government documents for public consumption.

 

The current Principal Secretary is Sarson Halgrim.

 

“I’ve spent decades in the east hunting plots, treasures, and beasts for a living. Besides the wretched paperwork, this isn’t so different yet. Anyone who’s got the guts to make a nation out of this little finger of God in the wretched desert - join me, and learn what it takes to be the sort of professional the world needs.” - Sarson Halgrim, on his new station in the Duana.

 

To those interested in learning about the organization of the Duana, or the various plots and initiatives the Duana is to pursue as a whole, reach out to Sarson Halgrim or the Office of the Principal Secretary.

 

AGENT-GENERAL OF THE CLERGY 

 

The Agent-General of the Clergy is tasked with promoting religious and cultural institutions within the realm. They help ensure that the Kingdom of Balian acts with the interest of the state faith of Canonism, as well as maintaining relationships with the High Pontiff’s Curia. They also help build relations with religious minorities and religious communities within the realm, ensuring their rights are protected.

 

The current Agent-General of the Clergy is Teodosio Cardinal Tyria.

 

“While having no formal government experience, I have experience within the church and hold positions of Cardinal Tyria, Bishop Tyria and Interim Auditor of the Tribunal. My goal is to make a more robust church within Balian that is not confined to the existing Highlander and Heartlander traditions, and is instead able to make its own traditions that better reflect the piety of our people” - Cardinal Tyria, on his appointment to the Royal Duana.

 

To those interested in supporting faith and culture in Balian, reach out to Cardinal Tyria or his agents of the clergy.

 

PALATIODORA  OF THE ANDROMEDAN COURT

GOVERNESS OF THE QUEEN’S COURT

The Palatiodora of the Andromedan Court is charged with the management of the Palatio Arancione. The Palatiodora and their staff tend to the private matters of the Crown and Royal Family. They are also the executive of the Andromedan Courts of the Palatio Arancione, overseeing all revelries, publications of the Andromedan Court and maintaining the Court’s Public image. Unlike the other positions of the Duana, the Palatiodora may only be appointed or dismissed by the Sovereign or Consort and answers directly to the Crown. 

 

The current Palatiodora of the Andromedan Court is Serena Viviana d’Arkent.

To those interested in helping manage the Palatio Arancione and tend to its events, reach out to Lady Serena Viviana d’Arkent or the Palatiodora’s Staff.

The Andromedan Court 

 

 

HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Adrian I, by the Grace of GOD, King of Balian, Count of Monteres, Viscount of Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca and Valens, Lord of Portoregne, Ruby Coast, Lord of Atrus and Monterosa, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera.

HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Andromeda Ester of Ba’as, Queen-consort of Balian, Viscountess of Eflen and Anatis, Baroness of Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Goza and Ciavola, Lady of Portoregne, Ruby Coast, Lady of Atrus and Monterosa, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera

 

HIS ROYAL EXCELLENCY, Gaius var Ruthern, Baron of Marsana, Amiratus of the Kingdom of Balian, Lord Seneschal of the Crown and Chief Minister of the Royal Duana.

 

Edited June 5, 2023 by Kingdom of Balian

[HIGH_FIRE 4118]

Ledicort Vuiller would nod his head as he afterwards took to stroking his beard pensively. "Gaius is very much a Trustworthy, hard Working, Involved man who works the Needed amount for the King's council." He utters with a wide smile