The Realm

May 1, 2025

Type: Interstellar polity
Dominant Species: Gelt
Capital: Throneworld
Government Type: Oligarchic monarchy
Head of State: The Sovereign (deified ruler)
Founded: Approximately 100 IE

Summary:

The Realm is the primary political, military, and religious authority of the Gelt species. Structured as a theocratic monarchy layered atop a rigid caste system, it is governed from the Seat of Supremacy, where the Sovereign—believed to be divine—rules with the support of Caste leaders and religious officials.

The Realm was thrust into an adversarial relationship with the Compact during the Gelt Incursion of 429 IE, led by rogue members of the Laral family.

Structure and Governance:

The Realm is governed through a divine monarchy headed by the Sovereign, who surrenders their name upon elevation and is referred to only by title. Power is further distributed among a formal council composed of:

  • Heads of the major castes (Warrior, Diplomatic, Legal, Medical, etc.)

  • The Chancellor (executive liaison and legislative manager)

  • The High Priest of the Old Faith

  • Other elevated figures with ceremonial or executive roles

Caste determines social status, profession, and political influence. While the Sovereign’s will is absolute, their rule is often shaped by caste politics, tradition, and interstellar pressures.

Hanar and Independence:

In 429 IE, shortly before his death, the reigning Sovereign granted Lattus Tishla full independence for the colony world of Hanar, formerly the human colony of Gilead. This recognition came with a caveat: so long as Tishla could maintain her claim and keep peace among her mixed population of human and Gelt settlers, the Realm would not interfere.

This declaration created a rare autonomous zone within the Realm’s sphere and made Hanar a political anomaly—technically Gelt, but functionally independent. It also complicated relations with the Compact, which had formerly claimed Gilead as its own colony.

Recent Events:

  • 429 IE: The Sovereign dies shortly after acknowledging Hanar’s independence. His underage son Akon is named heir, but the Seat of Supremacy refuses to instate a regency.

  • 430 IE: After months of stalemate, Sansar Aryanna is Elevated as Sovereign under strict conditions, only to be assassinated by a Compact agent. The Realm is once again left without a ruler, destabilized at a critical moment in interstellar affairs.