Homeworld: Laput
Species Governed: Laputans
Form of Government: Hereditary Theocratic Guardianship
Ruler Title: Guardian (not directly translatable as “king” or “sovereign”)
Religion: Monotheistic Syncretism (worship of the Unseen)
Primary Law Code: The Guardian’s Peace
Capital City: [Nominally Laput; most governance and diplomacy handled from Armaneya]
Overview
The Laputan Guardianship is the centralized, theocratic authority governing the Laputan species. Rooted in a blend of religious reverence and martial hierarchy, the Guardianship exerts control not only through government but through doctrine. Its hereditary ruler, known as the Guardian, embodies both supreme temporal power and spiritual authority, a fusion of military commander, high priest, and sacred monarch.
Religion and Philosophy
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The Unseen: Laputan religion centers around the worship of a singular, unknowable deity referred to as the Unseen. Though often conflated with mythology, this faith is codified in Guardianship law and daily life.
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Syncretic Origins: While the current belief in one Unseen deity dominates, the religion is descended from a fusion of ancient Laputan faiths. These traditions are preserved in liturgy and ritual, even as theological authority remains firmly monotheistic.
Government and Law
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The Guardian’s Peace: This is the name of both the Guardianship’s legal code and its central governing principle. It frames law, diplomacy, and military conduct as instruments of divine order. To “break the Guardian’s Peace” is both a civil and spiritual crime.
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Hereditary Succession: Guardians are chosen from a single bloodline, trained from birth in theology, martial command, and political governance. Coronation rituals emphasize their role as emissary of the Unseen.
Military and Cultural Customs
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First Contact Doctrine: Laputan doctrine dictates that new species be attacked immediately upon discovery to assess strength, resolve, and technology. Once satisfied, Laputans will offer a ceasefire and suggest mutual data exchange. This confounds most civilizations and has led to multiple diplomatic incidents.
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Hair and Honor: Laputans in military service grow a single long ponytail as a symbol of status:
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Draped over the left shoulder: Indicates active duty.
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Draped over the right shoulder: Signifies a veteran.
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Removal of the ponytail (voluntarily or by force) is considered a dishonor or disgrace, akin to being cast out.
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Cities and Infrastructure
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Armaneya: Orbiting the Class-E world Ramcat, Armaneya is the Guardianship’s largest and most politically important city. A hub of diplomacy, trade, and strategic oversight, Armaneya often serves as the practical capital, even if not officially designated as such.
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Hypergate Access: All entry into Laputan space is funneled through Armaneya. This singular gateway gives rise to the saying:
“All roads to the Guardianship lead through Armaneya.”
Appearances: Tishla's Journey, Chasing Eternity, Storming Amargosa, Jump