The various laws throughout the many kingdoms of Terath are complex, confusing, and ever-changing. It would be nearly impossible to codify them all here, and any such entry would quickly become outdated.
As an example, each of The Terathian Kingdoms seem to have written scores of laws regarding just violence alone. In nearly all realms, for instance, it is not unlawful to punish your own children with violence. And yet, the extent to which you may cause them harm is limited to different degrees, depending upon which Kingdom you are visiting. So too, vary the ages upon which children are considered to be adults and thus upon which they are no longer subject to the violent impulses of their parents.
Meanwhile, laws regarding violence against a Spouse, or against a member of the local militia, can vary from Barony to Barony within the same kingdom. And in some places, mercenaries pursuing a binding legal contract or Knights following a noble command can be considered immune from the consequences of their illegal actions, with the blame falling at the feet of the one who gave the orders. And yet, violence against an individual holding noble title is punished with Execution in nearly every region throughout the entire continent.
Only the local magistrates, constables, and Knights of the realms can be expected to have a thorough understanding of their own laws, not to mention the laws of neighboring kingdoms.
There are a few general guidelines one can follow to avoid the worst of the consequences of running afoul of Terathian Law, which are as follows –
- Do not take the life of a cyclic person, unless in one’s own defense.
- Do not use any form of Necromantic or Abyssal magic.
- Do not disobey the commands of the local nobility.
- Do not fail to kneel before those in power, nor fail to show respect to proper authority.
- Do not lay claim to possessions which appear to belong to another.
Of all the Kingdoms of Terath, the Kingdom of Falconcrest has the simplest legal system by far. There are a very small number of Laws which, in many ways, resemble the simple list of guidelines above. The Knights, Magistrates, and Nobles of The Kingdom of Falconcrest are invested with the authority to judge the severity of each of these crimes, and to determine sentencing depending upon the perceived intent of the criminal. There are those who have argued that these simple laws carry consequences which are far too harsh, as every single one of Falconcrest’s Laws allow for the execution of the one who has violated the law. These laws can be perceived as somewhat brutish and uncivilized by outsiders, but on the other hand, the Citizens of Falconcrest do seem to benefit from a reduced burden of restriction so long as they live within the boundaries which have been set forth.
A Note on The Use of Necromancy –
Throughout most of Terath, the use of Necromancy is strictly prohibited. This dark and horrific magic is known to cause suffering, torment, and madness. Those who develop reputations as Necromancers are widely feared and hated wherever they go.
Any and all casting of Necromantic Magic or trading in Necromantic Wares is punishable by Execution in The Queen’s Lands, Chindius, Falconcrest, Hadrianus, Haven, and Westerland. The Kingdoms of Akeron, Ebrus, Myzentius, Narovo, and The Ethlin Isles also prohibit Necromancy, but allow exceptions under certain circumstances.
In Myzentius, one must possess a Royal Writ from the King in order to use Necromancy. One can generally only lay claim to such a writ through service to the crown, usually via Mercenary Contract. In Akeron, it is possible to purchase a License, though only at great cost. In The Ethlin Isles, only Elves are generally granted permission to cast Necromancy, and generally only after rigorous training. In Ebrus, one must serve in the Ebran Military to gain permission to use Necromancy, but is thereafter given lifelong allowance to do so. In Narovo, the Parthan of the Desert have decreed that only Pridelords can the entitlements to use this dark magic, but in the southern towns and cities the nobles claim that Necromancy is completely forbidden.
The Laws of The Kingdom of Falconcrest
His Majesty King Gilrandir Galathule, Sovereign ruler of the Kindgom of Falconcrest, has proclaimed his laws thusly, and charges those whom deliver his justice to mitigate their rulings with consideration for the intent of the criminal action, in holding with the traditions of the former King Aleric Falconcrest and the once High King, Arador Kajorelle.
The following actions are violations of Falconcrest Law-
Pursuing or performing an act of war against the subjects of The Kingdom of Falconcrest. Punishable by death or worse.
Summoning up or bring to bear those powers which are Abyssal in nature, or possessing items of Abyssal nature. Punishable by death or worse.
Taking the life of any of His Majesty’s subjects except for in direct defense of life or in pursuit of thy honor or rightful duties. Punishable by death or worse.
The use of necromantic magic, necromantic abilities, necromantic rituals, or necromantic items, including the possession of such items. Punishable by death.
The giving of offense or slander to those of full Falconcrest noble title, and the slander of military officers above and including the rank of Captain. Punishable by heavy fine or death. While Knights, Guildmasters, Magistrates, and other titled individuals do not carry the protection of this law, the noble who appointed them may take offense at slandering of their names.
The theft or unlawful acquisition of possessions, including failure to pay tax. Punished by reparation in low multiples of the acquisition’s value, or death when payment is not possible
The act of deadly assault. Punishable by heavy fine or death.
The abduction, acquisition, or ownership of a sentient creature. Punishable by death.
Honor Above All,
By Command of King Gilrandir Galathule
