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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:23:41 GMT
Overview The Imperium Divinium, officially the Imperial Federation of Divinium, Is a country mainly located along the North Eastern border of Placidia, as well as the Southern Peninsula. The Imperium Divinium consists of eight federated states and 43 Free Cities, with varying degrees of autonomy from the Imperial government. Divinium is bordered by the islands of Moderal in the Wolf Sea, and the Sadaler territory of Hweitzudes on its south eastern discontiguous state border. It also occupies the states of Estraria and Tanysira to the South, as well as a majority of the city of Bethlehem. The Imperium Divinium has a population of 132 Million. The official language of the nation is Divinian Latin, though many people communicate in Aerali’i, Hundisch, and English.
Federal Anthem: Quod Lux Divinae (The Light of Divinium)
Imperial Anthem: Diademata (Crown Him With Many Crowns)
Motto: “Deus non Dominatur” (God does not dominate)
Imperial Capital: St. Helena, Divina Magna
State capitals:
Marcum City, Marcum
Sorleis, Chalphys
Rigel, Tateland
Faenstadt, Thai’Faenum
Coronae’i’Xarn, Gankands
Iqrinas, Tanysira
Ishuria, Estraria
Official Languages: Divinian Latin
Recognized Languages: Aerali’i, Greek, Tanasi, Hundisch, Hebrew
Ethnic Groups
58.54% Latin 37.01% Gankander 3% Tanysiran 2% other
Religion
87% Catholic
5% Aerali’i
8% other
Demonym(s): Divinian, Imperials, Latini
Government: Imperial Federation
Emperor: Florin-Aurelius von Marcum (de jure)
Aodhan Estrana (de facto)
Legislature: Septicameral Senate
Council of Patricians: 100 Seats (and one observer)
Council of Equites: 36 Seats
Council of Plebians: 82 Seats
Council of Clientes: 70 Seats
Council of Clericus: 68 Seats (and one observer)
Council of Urbs Imperialis Libera: 43 seats
Council of Servi: 100 Seats
Executive: Imperial Council
Executor: Emperor Florin von Marcum
Consiliario: Archduke Aodhan Estrana
Concilium Sapientiae: 7 seat council. Oisín Durot (Commerce) Cathal Retorus (Consuls), Samuel Coltain (Arms), Cosmin Avitus (Unity), Fredric Amata (Treasury), Archbishop William von Marcum (Faith), Caius Beatrix (Education)
FormationLatini Branch: Settled: 12th Century BC Noble Republic: c. 900BC-200BC Fall of Latium: 207BC
Christian Branch: March: 60 A.D Kingdom: 1046 A.D First Empire: 1127 A.D First Republic: 1653-1657 Second Empire: 1657-1687 Second Republic: 1687-1700 Third Empire: 1700-1706 Third Republic: 1706-1733 Imperial Federation: 1733-present.
Population
~132,352,300
GDP: 4.948 Trillion Currency: Lire (£ or L.) |
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:25:28 GMT
Divinian History
The Latini are the original group of peoples to have lived in Divinium, then known simply as Latium. They are believed to have settled the region in the 12th century BC, around the area that is the present day fief of Mainzell. They are understood to have maintained close cultural ties to the various Latin groups in the area, despite never forming a unified government until several centuries later. In the 800’s BC, a group from the south, known as the Aerali’i began migrating into the area, overtaking many of the Latin tribes that had extended past the Sanguine river. The Cities of Latium and Altium (Mainzell) eventually fell to the invading chief Difid, and his host. Thus the most powerful cities in the Latin regions became part of Difid’s Host, or “Difid’i’tu’us”. This was further bastardized over generations, eventually becoming known as Difidium.
The remaining Latin tribes soon banded together under a noble republic, managing to stay the advance of these invaders into Divina Magna. Both the Aerali’i and Latin peoples would extend their reach into the territory to their south, resulting in mixed cultures in Chalphys. Modern day Tateland saw more Latin control.
Christianity eventually found its way first to modern day Tateland, where allegedly St. Peter set up his first church. The people of Divina Magna who were faced with a crumbling republic sought the aid of this god in their struggles against the Aerali’i. The people of Difidium, now a mixed group led by Genarog the Tame in 42AD, took several Latin children as his wards to maintain peace. Legend says that he was so moved by the passionate evangelizing of these children that he converted and eventually took one of the girls as his wife. Without children of his own, he named one child, Leopold, his heir. Leopold grew to become an excellent warrior and devout Catholic.
Thus, in 60AD Pope Linus issued the “Iudica Maxima” granting him the title of “Margrave of Difidium and Christian protector of Divina Magna”. This placed Difidium at the forefront of the Latin rulers of Divina Magna. Despite this, the Aerali’i began facing great internal pressures and so largely withdrew from their advances into Divina Magna. This allowed the Marcha Difidium to wrest power from many of its fellow Latin estates, as well as settle the areas that make up present day Eincrois and Astranum in Marcum.
By 1046, Difidium exercised de facto control over the majority of Divina Magna, with their only major internal competitor being Harnau in the East. The people of Harnau had begun pushing past the Petros river, threatening papal control over the riverine trade routes. For this reason, Wendel I was made “King of Divina” with a promise to defend the Papacy. Wendel popularized the phrase “Difidium ist Divina”, which is believed to be the reason Difidium morphed into Divinium.
By the late 11th century, the Aerali’i had centralized power in a duumvirate, with the High Priestess Aelena as the leading religious authority, and began once again encroaching on the Divinian state. In 1106, Wendel II married Aelena, who formally recognized Christian beliefs as acceptable to the Aerali’i tradition. The Divinians misunderstood the ruling system of their neighbors, assuming that “Queen Elena'' was the rightful inheritor of the Aerali’i lands. In a mistranslation, Elena is said to have signed her name “Marcum'' in the agreement, which likely referred to her place as leader of Vernalpool on the ocean. This marriage however was considered unpopular among the Latin people, who were frightened of the potential Aerali’i influence on Divinium. As a result, when Wendel II and Elena died in 1108, with only a daughter Anneliese, it was decided that her cousin, Ernst Harnau would rule Divinium.
After a war between the Aerali’i and Divinians, known now as the First Succession War, Anneliese eventually ascended to the throne in 1127. She created the Archduchy of St. Elena, attempting to smooth relations between the two previously warring factions. She was avowedly Catholic, but retained the surname Marcum to appease the Aerali’i who had supported her, despite marrying Count Gabriel Eincrois. She also accepted the title “high priestess” of the Aerali’i. Anneliese centralized control over both Marcum and Divinium, eventually being recognized as Empress of the Imperium Divinium by the Pope. She allowed both states to maintain their own internal governments, and set up the Council of Wisdom as her imperial advisorial body. She also oversaw much of the construction of St. Elena, which would later become the imperial capital, though spent a majority of her time ruling from Vernalpool and Mainzell.
During the ensuing centuries, Divinium maintained a relatively stable internal peace, with most of the modern kingdom's borders solidified in the 13th century. However, nobles from Divinum called for war in 1643, largely due to dwindling silver deposits. A short but bloody war with Tateland, culminating in the battle of the Gronfeld, incorporated the Grand Duchy into the empire, and made the Divinian nobles very wealthy. Emperor Vincent however, died in battle, and the ensuing regency council instigated a coup against his successor, Emperor Victor I, on October 4th, 1653. Though much of the fighting happened in Marcum, the siege of St. Helena continued for nearly 4 years, with Empress Consort Maria leading the defense of the city.
In 1657, with populations of the Divinian estates, severely crippled after years of conflict, signed the “Peace of Astranum”, which let the nobles retain large amounts of economic and military freedom in exchange for their recognition of the emperor. In 1687 however, when the thirty years agreement was to be voided, nobles of the state rose again in rebellion. The rebels fared much better in this conflict, and the imperial family was forced to flee to The island of Grania in Chalphys. This led to the formation of the Second Divinian Republic, which was ruled by elected nobles from throughout the empire, though predominantly Divinium and Marcum.
In 1692, following several years of famine due to poor harvest and a broken population, the Second Divinian Republic collapsed into warring noble factions. One faction, led by the Lady Aurora Tate, supported a return of the Imperial Family in exchange for political concessions, and a reinstating of house Harnau (of whom Aurora was a female-line descendent). The move was popular in Divinum, and by 1700 Wladislaw II had effectively secured imperial control. He reformed the Divinian government, giving control of its legislature to the newly created Imperial diet, guaranteed the rights of the free cities, and invested his personal wealth into infrastructure in the state.
This near decade of reform however ended in 1706 when Wladislaw II drowned in the sewage pit of Mainzell Keep, leaving his wife and children behind. Southern Divinium maintained loyalty to the imperial family, though the northern estates were far too fortified to attempt to bend to imperial authority. Thus began the “Thirty Year Freeze” wherein the claimant “Third Divinian Republic” and the Imperium Divinium maintained a state of war where neither side engaged in major conflict.
Finally, in 1733 the Constitution was officially written and signed by Empress en tempus Lysithea, which greatly limited imperial authority and returned the territories of the Third Republic to the Empire.
The territory of the Gankands was conquered from High King Zechariah in the mid 1890’s with help from the Kingdom of Sadalen , during which time the reigning emperor, Christopher III, suffered a head injury and fell into a coma. His youngest daughter, Archduchess Catherine wrested control of the state and helped lead the nation to victory. This greatly increased her popularity among the common folk, who hailed her as the Star of Divinium, and a successor to the Warrior-Empress Anneliese. Because of this, the electoral diet was split between her and her eldest brother Prince Eugene when the time came to crown a new emperor. This sparked a conflict known as the Crown and Sceptre War, during which time the states of Marcum and Chalphys supported Catherine’s claim, while Divina Magna and Tateland supported Eugene. An attempted intervention on Eugene’s behalf from the Empire of Rodina was put down by the returning Divinian Navy at the Battle of the Salt Isle, directly leading to the total destruction of the Rodinian fleet and their subsequent communist revolution. Catherine’s troops, supported by Sadaler sellswords, won key victories at the Olive Mount and St. Helena, eventually securing her succession to the throne.
In 1903, under the guise of a peace negotiation, the president (de facto) of Duom Asderaordia set off a briefcase bomb, killing the Empress and several members of her family. This resulted in the War of the Second Coalition (known colloquially as St. Catherine’s War), resulting in the destruction of Duom. In 1905, Ethlynn von Marcum (née Colatin) was elected to serve as Regent for Catherine’s son, Florin-Aurelius, with Duke Aodhan Estrana elected to the position of Archduke of St. Helena. She has thus far, overseen the smoothing of economic tensions between the Hansa and DOC, as well as the Divinian conquest of Estraria.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:26:27 GMT
Geography
The state of Divinum is the fourth largest by area in the Empire, after the Gankands, Estraria, and Marcum. The highest elevation is 1,050ft above sea level in the northwest mountain. The average elevation is 98.5ft above sea level.
The Contiguous states consist of mostly coastal plains and hills around the two large rivers that make up the borders of the heartland. The soil is exceptionally fertile due to the extensive river valley created between these and the coastal plain, allowing for a variety of crops to be grown. The states experience temperate weather, and are usually lacking in extreme weather due to its extensive coastline, northern mountain border, and the islands of Moderal off to the east.
The entire delta of the Sanguine river is dominated by the city of St. Helena, which spans over 570 square miles. Most of the other major cities in the state grew up along riverine routes, and overtook the area as trade developed. By contrast, there is extensive farmland in the rest of the nation where smaller towns and villages are much more common on the fiefs. The northern border is more mountainous and densely forested. There are notable, though depleted, silver deposits in the north of the state, as well as bromine along the coast. Thai’Faenum is notable for its dense northern forest and the extensive fens, from which it gets its name.
The Gankands by comparison, is much warmer, with rocky soil and steep cliffs in the south, opening up to rolling plains in the north, making it the breadbasket of the Empire. Tanysira is less Arable, but is notable for its many deposits of natural material, including diamonds.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:27:47 GMT
Government and Politics The Imperium Divinium is a Federation of states under a constitutional, elective monarchy. Emperor Ethlynn von Marcum is Regent Monarch and head of state of the Empire, as well as suzerain of the Petrine Dominions and elected leader of 23 of the 43 Free Imperial Cities. Although the Imperial title is elective, a member of the Marcum Dynasty has been elected to the throne consistently for centuries. The monarch is bound by the Divinian Constitution, which is actually a series of documents written between 1706 and 1733. Constitutional reform may be enacted by a majority vote of the constituent state legislatures, or at the request of the Emperor’s Consort. There are two important legislative bodies: the Imperial Diet and the Senate. The Senate consists of seven councils, determined by social class. The Senate has the authority to vote on or create Federal laws, either by a full majority vote or by a council majority. Each council is led by a Tribune (formerly called a Senior Magister). The Imperial Diet is organized by state, with each state getting 2 Magisters. These magisters are chosen from among the constituent state legislatures, and will meet generally to confirm a states view on heirs, or settle internal disputes. The Archduke of St. Helena has traditionally been filled by the heir apparent, who serves as head of the legislature.
Upon the death or abdication of an Emperor, the Imperial Diet will convene to elect a new one. Each state will send two representatives to the diet for the purpose of this election. Any person may be elected to the imperial throne so long as they are at least 14 years of age. The candidates do not have to be citizens of the empire at the time of their candidacy, though they must become citizens should they be elected. According to the Divinian Constitution, a member of the von Marcum line is given primacy in elections. Those eligible from the family will be considered and voted on before all other candidates. If the diet is hung, the eldest von Marcum eligible will automatically be crowned.
During the interim, the consort of the former emperor reserves the right to act as head of state along with the Archduke of St. Helena, who has a tie breaking vote in the diet as well.
The Executive Branch is dominated by the Council of Wisdom, whose numbers vary at the will of the emperor. They are responsible for the implementation of the will of the legislature and the Emperor. Although the emperor retains the right to appoint councilors as they see fit, they do not have the authority to choose those junior members who serve under the council.
Each state of the empire has their own internal legislature, though all recognize the Emperor as head of state. Divinium defers to the Imperial Senate as their legislature. Marcum has a diet organized by territory, each organized into a host. Each host gets 3 representatives in their state legislature, with one from 3 different social classes. The high priestess of the Aerali’i presides over their legislature. Tateland has a Theocratic diet, where 12 randomly selected bishops serve as legislators for one year terms. Chalphys has a bicameral legislature, with the lower house represented by the free cities, and the upper house represented by elected officials from their internally organized voting districts. The Legislator pro tempore of the lower house runs the upper house, and vice versa. Thai’Faenum is legislated by the comitia populi tributa, which is organized by familial relation, regardless of where the families live in the state. The Gankands, Estraria, and Tanysira are currently under legislatures organized similarly to the Imperial Senate.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:29:06 GMT
Military The Military organization of Divinium is a mix of old and newer ideologies. Following the noble proscription of 1898, each fief is no longer entitled to their own army. Instead, the forces trained on each fief are under the direct command of their state government. There are currently three branches: army, navy and the home guard.
The Imperial and State Armies are the major branch of the Armed Forces in Divinium. The Imperial army numbers at 80,000, with the State armies fluctuating based on need. Most career soldiers in the armies will be transferred to the Home Guard in times of peace, though are easily transferred back. The Divinian army is generally known for their heavy reliance on artillery and defensive doctrines, which have served them well in their long history of internal conflict. There are three typical types of infantrymen in the armed forces; Zouaves,Musketeers, and Fusiliers. These names came from the reforms of Emperor Vincent in the mid-17th century to replace the old Latin styling, which no longer seemed relevant during modern warfare. Despite this, many still use these names colloquially. The Musketeer is your standard line infantry, though the name is misleading as they no longer carry muskets. A man conscripted into service is generally not considered a member of the musketeers. The Zouaves really, are similar to musketeers, but are usually pulled from conscripts. Historically these units would be light infantry, but in modern times most infantry operate as such. Notable differences would include the use of lighter, smaller machine gun crews, and usually a lack of support from armored vehicles. Finally there are the fusiliers. These troops are considered heavy infantry even to this day. They are typically placed to the rear of other infantry, with the purpose of guarding artillery with heavy machine gun fire. Due to their positioning and tenacity, they are oft compared to the Triarii. When Fusiliers are forced to take up places in the line, it is said “res ad triarios venit”, an indication of high casualties on the field.
The Imperial Navy is responsible for the projection of Divinian power overseas and troop transport. The ships of the Divinian navy are known for their lower than average speeds, though are generally well armored. Due to the Divinian focus on artillery, many members of the Artillery Corps find use aboard their vessels. The current naval force of Divinium consists of: 27 Battleships, 27 Battlecruisers, 27 Destroyers, 31 Torpedo Boats, and 34 Gunboats.
The Home Guard is subdivided into Coastal and Foot Guard. In peace it will pull from the Army and Navy as needed, though reserves are always trained on fiefs.
The most prestigious branch of the Divinian armed forces is the artillery corps. During the conflict that ended the Second Divinian Republic, Imperial forces used artillery to great effect. Many people in high command of the Republic believed their territory was safe due to fortifications and the terrain, which made cavalry highly effective at scouting and rapid deployment. The Imperials however, trained for the rapid deployment of siege artillery and field guns to shatter the old fortifications and bring cities, and thus the industrial capacity of the nation, under their control. It is during this time that the fusiliers began to be attached permanently to artillery divisions. When cavalry rode in to disrupt artillery, they were met by fusiliers, who had been equipped with the recently developed Puckle gun. So much lead was thrown downfield by these guns that the cavalry would quickly falter, and soon had to resort totally to dismounting before combat.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:30:41 GMT
Economy The ID currently has a partially regulated market economy. Based on market exchange rates, the ID is among the largest economies in the world, and second on Placidia to the Associated Cities of Sheen. HEM Treasury, led by the Councilor of the Treasury, is responsible for developing and executing the government's public finance policy and economic policy. The Bank of Divinium is the ID's central bank and is responsible for issuing notes and coins in the nation's currency, the Lire. The states are not permitted to mint their own coins nor print their own currency, though the Petrine Dominions may mint the Papal Lire, which is tied to the currency of the Empire.
Divinium has the capacity to be internally self-sufficient (provided she stops engaging in military expansion), though it has forgone this possibility in favor of greater economic potential. The Imperial government has funded the largest international corporation in the world, the Divinian Offshore Company. This company, which specializes in shipping, transport, and many other services, is worth over 15 Billion Lire, and is consistently the highest valued stock on the market. The St. Helena Stock exchange is also the largest in the world, trading billions of lire worth of stocks a day.
The Divinian economy is broadly diversified, with the original 4 states being far more industrialized than the newest acquisitions. Divinium produces many manufactured goods, including luxury goods like dye, furniture, medicine, machinery, textiles, and artillery. They also produce many food goods such as wine, walnuts, wheat, and tropical fruit. Mineral goods like bromine, silver, and diamonds are common exports. Chalphysian, or Divinian Crystal, is exclusively produced in one estate in the ID, and is known for its clarity, strength, and exceptional artisan work. Despite the relatively industrialized nature of the heartland, the ID still is largely noted for its agricultural production. Exports of factory produced origins have, in recent years, notably skewed toward the production of luxury goods. Due to the increased military production high quality steel, nickel, rubber, and oil are in high demand. Notably as well, Divinium lacks much of the internal capacity to produce the chemicals needed for the creation of luxury goods, often importing them.
Divinians are expected to learn a multitude of languages, and so are often contracted by companies as foreign liaisons between corporations.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:31:26 GMT
Demographics
A Federal census is taken in the ID every 10 years, or as required by the Emperor or Council of Unity. The current population is over 132 million, with the incorporation of Divinian Tanysira and Estraria into the empire. This makes it the largest nation in the world by population. The nation sees a general positive growth in population due to births, comparable with other countries in the world. Despite rather lax immigration laws, the ID does not see major immigration due to its internal desire to regulate ethnic diversity within the empire.
Historically, the ethnic groups of Divina Magna, Tateland,Chalphys, and Estraria are considered Latins, though there has been prominent mixing over the centuries. In Chalphys especially, they have a long history of mixing with invading western Norman’s. Tateland also saw a major influx of people from Yehud in the first century AD, as people came to Divinium with St. Peter. The state of Marcum has a prominent Aerali’i population who, although most have adopted Christianity and many cultural influences from the east, still retain many Celtic traditions. The people of Thai’Faenum have a strong Latin and Sadaler mix, due to the lands granted to sadaler sellsword during the crown and scepter war. The Gankands and Tanysira maintain cultural heterogeneity, though strong attempts have been made to latinize them through cultural assimilation.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:32:04 GMT
Culture The culture it the ID has been influenced by many factors, including their long history of isolated regional conflict and as a political union of seven countries with each preserving elements of distinctive traditions, customs, and symbolism. It was the case until the late 19th century, that most Divinians would refer to themselves by state and ethnic demonym rather than the overall imperial demonym. However, with the rather recent federal restructuring and subsequent wars (including that of the Crown and Sceptre War and the War of the Second Coalition), a strong push for internal unity against outside threats has emerged from the government and lower castes. The populist movement of the late Empress Catherine von Marcum has influenced Divinian culture greatly, with increased emphasis on the unique Latin heritage of Divinium. As the heartland of the old Latin Republic, the popular culture draws inspiration from Latium and the Latin successor states, adopting their dress and philosophy into a more modern context.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:32:43 GMT
Literature
Divinian Literature has most often seen great influence from the dominance of the Catholic Church, who in the early Medieval period preserved much of the old Latin writings still available today. The Divinian Imperial Library is full of priceless classical works, both of Latin and Aerali’i origins. As a result, the writings have often incorporated themes involving the dominance of nature and religion. The Romantic movement was prominent in Divinium, even into the modern day. Though many important works have been published in Divinium, they are often not accredited as such due to their closed off nature for centuries. Modern writings have been extremely ethno-centric in nature, referencing the old Latin Pantheon and its mythologies as a call for unity. Many of these myths have been censored and modified by the government and nationalist minded scholars, in order to paint the ancient Latins in a much better light. References specifically to slavery, the actual power of pagan gods, homosexuality, and debauchery have been reworked to better fit the image of the state. Despite this, the original works are technically available still, and though the government makes no open stance against them, they have certainly hampered their access.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:33:23 GMT
Architecture
Divinian Architecture has continued to follow its historical roots, with neoclassical styles seeing a massive resurgence in recent years. This is largely due to the cultural and political trends striving for a centralized latinization of the disparate states in the Empire. Late Baroque styles have been deemed inferior, due to their excess and foreign influence on Divinium. Developments in archaeology have been crucial in the resurgence of this style. Notably, the excavation of old Latium and the federal attempts to rebuild Mainzell under the Empress Catherine von Marcum set a precedent for this style. Notable are the use of vaults and arches, as well as massive domes. City planning tends to be a bit more open than during the height of Latium however. With the ability to construct taller buildings of sturdier material, the once attached building complexes have opened up to allow for more side streets to better accommodate heavier traffic flow for vehicles.
Aerali’i influences have remained, though with Latinate influence. The idea of allowing nature into one’s home has remained and been expanded upon, even in restrained formats. Notable is the choice to have running fountains not only in the peristylium, but into the interior of the house as well. Special bridges are constructed to cross these streams, or channels built into the halls. Gardens are no longer carefully manicured, but instead usually allowed to grow in a contained but natural looking manner.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:34:06 GMT
Music and Dance
Divinian music has traditionally been a marker of the Divinian national and ethnic identity, and holds an important place in society, politics, and religion today. Historically, Divinian innovations in harmonics, musical scale and notation, and the development of several instruments have paved the way for a robust and persistent appreciation and innovation in the field. The church and nobles alike have been consistent patrons of musicians for centuries, with the Imperial Conservatory at St. Helena being one of the most well funded in the world.
Music is generally rather simplistically separated into High and Low categories. Operas, Symphonic pieces, and the like are usually classified as High music. This is not intended to imply an inherent superiority in form, but is rather meant to exemplify the type of music Divinians have found more suitable for foreign ears or High Society functions. Concerts are generally rather cheap due to State funding, but the form is considered more “stuffy” than Divinian folk styles. For this reason, it is considered the safe option when displaying Divinian culture to foreigners.
“Low music” typically includes folk styles, which are typically meant to be danced to. From the Aerali’i, reels have become a staple of Divinium, and are so ingrained as to be the second proper dance of any occasion, after the waltz (which is typically only included for the sake of foreigners). Divinian folk dances vary by region, drawing similarities to flamenco, pasodoble, and the tarantella. They are usually upbeat and partnered. A notable aspect of these dances however is that partners generally avoid touching one another directly as much as possible. “Wrist locking” is the default partner position, though scarves and the like are also often used to simulate touch. Among foreigners, these dances are usually considered rather risqué due to the style of movement, despite the fact that little physical contact is made. To Divinians however, this is considered an alluring demonstration of the unique beauty and grace of the human form.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:35:20 GMT
Society
Divinian society is highly stratified by social class. Despite this, there is a fair amount of social mobility, thanks in large part to the nation's economic and educational policies. The lower classes of serfs enjoy more freedom than their contemporaries in other nations, with legally binding contracts between lord and serf. This makes them more akin to tenant farmers than true serfs, though the name has held through a strong Divinian instance on the value of tradition. This too is why all Divinians are at least nominally Catholic, though no attempts are made to infringe on private worship so long as appropriate taxes are paid to the church and state. The church, in turn, is legally obligated to use that money for charitable causes, including healthcare, education, and relief of the impoverished.
The lowest caste, Servi, literally translates to slave, which may be confusing to outsiders. They are not in fact, slaves, and are instead bound by contract to their land, not their lord. Contracts between lord and serf are regulated by the Senate, and administered by the council of wisdom. Servi are often highly sought after, as they typically pass their contracts down to their children. As such, a good rapport is expected between the serf and lord, who has a vested interest in keeping skilled workers on their land. This class has a great amount of internal difference however; a simple laborer may often receive less in their contract than a skilled craftsman.
Plebeians are those citizens who live on Federal land or Imperial fiefs. They are not held to a contract, and thus are provided more freedom than the Servi. They are much the same functionally, but do not have to pay a tithe to a lord, instead paying Federal and State taxes directly. This is a double edged sword, as they are also guaranteed less services than the Servi under contract.
Clientes are those freedmen who are more economically stable: merchants, highly skilled laborers, or local bureaucrats. These men and women are often employed by lords to oversee production on fiefs, thus their title.
The Urbs Imperialis Libera, are a special subdivision, applying to those who live in Free Imperial Cities. This class makes up a wide economic range, from normal plebeians to Patricians, but with a few differences. The Free Imperial Citizen does not pay state taxes, and are constitutionally protected from being drafted into the armed forces. Because of this unique situation, the average free citizen is generally better off financially than their contemporaries elswhere in the empire, and the cities in turn bring substantial wealth to the imperial coffers.
Clericus and Eques, represent those families in religious and military occupations respectively. Given the wide scope of power and land held by the Divinian Catholic Church, the Clericus was deemed a necessary distinction. Though not fundamentally different in terms of taxes or rights, the Clericus do have their own council in the senate. This also holds true for the Eques, who have a council drawn from the military elite via the knightly orders.
Finally, the Patricians are the landed nobility of Divinium. They are often ranked among the wealthiest and most privileged members of society. Patricians retain quite a few rights their ancestors held in the Middle Ages, including the right to execute justice on their lands, educational structuring, and of course the land itself they inherit. Despite the inherited nature of this land, there has been a surprising amount of change within the patrician class due to wars, proscription, and the maintained Imperial right to bind and loose vassals at will. In fact, only seven families can trace their lineage directly back to the first empire, and many of those are of female-line descent.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:36:02 GMT
Education
Education in Divinium is highly structured, with three optional forms of schools available to students. Fief, Ecclesiastic, and Federal schools are determined by the land on which they are built, and often specialize in different areas. Divinian schools run in semesters of three months, with students generally having holiday in the months of April, August, and December. Many children choose to board at school as they age rather than at home, due to the Divinian insistence on individual and community ties being preferred over blood relations. Great pressure is placed on children to strive for social mobility as a means of increasing not only their economic, but also their political situation. This isn’t to say that nuclear families are not close in the ID, simply that the societal structure places more emphasis on independent value. This may stem, in part, from the lower classes relying on familial trades to make a living. As such, liberation from that proves inherent value, and offers prestige to the family in the generations to come.
Children between the ages of 5 and 16 are required to attend school. Both girls and boys receive an education, though they are always separated if not by school, then by dormitories and facilities.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:36:42 GMT
Language
Divinian Latin is the common tongue for the majority of the nation. As the ID has expanded though, multiple languages have become accepted within the states. Soft pressure, through education and government, has kept the language alive, though there is no effort to stamp out other languages at large. As a result, most social climbing Divinians will learn a multitude of languages and dialects for the purposes of trade and interstate communication. Despite calling itself “Latin”, the Divinian dialects have shifted largely from their historic roots, simplifying and dropping many declensions, as well as incorporating parts of Aerali’i into the vernacular.
In recent years, there has been a notable dialect shift among the upper classes, trending toward a more classic pronunciation of the language. This is in part, an attempt to push Classical Latin as a unified language for the Latin League.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:37:32 GMT
Cuisine
For most of the Divinian States, food is rather uniform among the classes. It is typically the quality and amount, rather than the type of ingredients that generally differentiates meals between the classes. Wine is typically served at all meals, and is heavily diluted to lower alcohol content. Kompot is also a favored drink, with foreign fruits typically considered more special than native ones. The boiled fruit will often be strained from the drinks to be used as preserves, and it is considered a great honor to receive a drink with the chunks of fruit still in the glass. Coffee has gained popularity due to the increased production in the southern states, though tea is considered a drink of the nouveau riche.
Foods are generally cooked and served with olive oil in most states, excluding Marcum which has a preference for cooking with lard or butter. Pork, fish, and crustaceans are the dominant proteins of Divinian cuisine, as are fowl. Wheat, in the form of breads or porridge, has been a staple of the Divinian diet for centuries, and is the main grain source. Artichokes, peas, cabbage, cauliflower, and rutabaga are traditional vegetable staples. Many fruits and nuts are also eaten in wide variety, with preference toward apricots, cherries, strawberries, almonds, and walnuts. Foods are still preferred to be sweetened with honey. Spice preferences tend toward black pepper and saffron (if it can be afforded), with the sauces of Garum and mustard available on every table.
The Divinians usually eat three meals a day. Ientaculum is the morning meal, usually having a simple spread of seasonal fruit, nuts, porridge, bread, and cheese. Cena is the afternoon meal, and is roughly the same in composition, though may often swap fruit for vegetables or legumes. Requies is a short, late afternoon break taken by most people for a drink and baked goods (like kompot or coffee with a roll). Finally, Vesperna is the evening meal, usually with the largest portions and options. Despite popular, and historic, views on the last meal of the day being a time for social gatherings and business meetings, this is not the case in modern Divinium. Meals are typically considered private affairs, and as such most business meetings tend to happen in the morning after Ientaculum, or during Requies.
Despite attempts not to seem indulgent, Divinium is well known for their love of pastries. This is one of the surprising aspects on which the people rebuked strong Latinization. Pastry chefs are highly regarded, and often sell more goods of foreign origin than traditional Latin desserts.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:38:40 GMT
Etiquette
Much like the rest of Divinian Society, social etiquette and decorum values quiet, modest, and demure attitudes. This does not preclude outward displays, such as wealth, but simply a socially accepted prescription for such displays. Open displays of emotion, positive or negative, are considered uncouth. Instead, subtlety is expected in social occasions. This can often be infuriating to outsiders, who do not pick up on the social cues Divinians may be giving as to their inclinations or interest. This is not to be mistaken for disinterest or detachment, but is instead a long standing maintenance of the “Pax Divinia”, which has long held that the populace only maintains societal peace through guarded expression. Emotions, even strong ones, are not frowned upon, but are expected to be expressed in private spaces, or in appropriate positions, such as the legislative halls. It is therefore, unsurprising to find even happily married Divinians to be thoroughly detached from one another in public. This does extend to private life to a degree, where it is common for children of upper class backgrounds to spend considerably less time with their blood relations than one might expect. Even lower class children are often sent away to boarding schools, in part an emulation of this trend.
Exceptions to this rule are typically state approved holidays, especially during a Triumph, during which period public outpourings of emotion are considered the appropriate reaction to events at hand. These events are, consequently, incredibly boisterous and hectic. It is not surprising for visitors to be thrown off by this shift in public dynamics, though to Divinians it is common practice. These events are often collectively called a “ly Purgatorium”, as they are associated with a cleansing of emotion.
Public displays of economic status too, are often guarded in Divinium. Most clothing is uniform among the various social classes in cut and form. The expression of wealth is instead displayed through richer fabrics, embroidery, layers, trains, and decoration. Jewelry is typically reserved for formal occasions, barring wedding rings, and religious pendants. The priestesses of the Vernal Cult are notable outliers in this regard, as they are often adorned with gold and jewels, as per their tradition. However, given Divinian history they are considered an exception: and most Divinians would not publicly express disdain even if it were felt.
The proper Divinian greeting and parting is the use of the term “Salve” (or “salvete” when talking to a group) for those of equal or lower rank, and “Ave” to those of a higher rank. A notable influence from the Aerali’i custom is that the term for goodbye (vale) is rarely used. A parting using that term implies perpetuity, and is considered the equivalent of wishing someone were dead. When greeting a Divinian, the person of highest rank is always introduced first. When greeting nobility, many often bow, though the custom is not expected in Divinium. Instead, the familiar greeting is to place your hand over your heart with your fingers spread in three groups: thumb/index, middle/ring, and pinky. This is believed to date to the second century AD, when many Latins were converting to Christianity. The symbol was believed to be an invocation of the Holy Trinity among a populace who had not yet fully embraced Catholicism.
Divinians are very particular about personal space, especially in urban environments. As such, it is considered improper to lay your hands on someone unless absolutely necessary, or invited. This holds particularly true for interactions between men and women. Should a woman wish to allow you to touch her, she will typically do so by inclining her hand or arm out for her partner to take. Many a foreigner has been fooled by the rather revealing manner of Divinian dress, and been subsequently surprised to find themselves on the receiving end of a nasty blow. Generally speaking however, intimate contact is not surprising among trusted friends in appropriate situations
The giving of gifts outside of events such as holidays is considered incredibly odd in Divinium. At best the gesture is considered foreign ignorance and at worst an insult on the economic state of the host. This is due to the idea of hospitium, or the divine right to hospitality, taken to the extreme. To a Divinian, offering a gift to your host is akin to bribing God (or the Gods generally) for your safety. Given the predominant Catholic and Aerali’i religious dogma, this notion is considered highly offensive. Furthermore, it may imply that your host would not extend hospitality if they were not paid for it. Nevertheless, if one truly feels inclined to get their Divinian host a gift, something of near worthlessness is a good choice: postage stamps, or a tray of buns, for example. Alternatively, some small token unique to your homeland may be offered for display near the hearth. Cut flowers should, under no circumstance be given however, as these are often considered an ill omen.
On the subject, the language of flowers is alive and well in Divinium. Despite the occasional resurgence worldwide, Divinium has maintained her own personal code with these plants, and it continues to remain popular both among men and women. Potted plants may be displayed from window boxes or in gardens to speak to a person's inclinations, resulting in a continued boom for private gardening businesses. Aside from this, patterns on clothing, fans,corsages, or wreathes (which are worn by both men and women) will tell the tale where no living plants are present. Despite what one may think based on the Divinian flag and Heraldry, the most prominent flower in the ID is the purple Hyacinth (hyacinthus orientalis persenche). This flower is reserved to represent the Imperial family of Divinium, and as such is nearly impossible to find in common gardens. In fact, it is illegal for one to cultivate a hyacinth of this hue without a federal license, though this law is not often enforced. The official cultivar for this color is housed in the St. Helena Botanical Gardens under the care of the Order of St. Augustine. During the annual Federation Day celebrations on April 15th, thousands of these plants are bought as gifts for the Imperial family, which has resulted in an entire field of hyacinths on the eastern grounds of the Argent Palace.
Despite the often coy nature of Divinian society, invitations are generally meant with sincerity. It is considered more dishonorable to invite someone insincerely than it is simply not to offer generosity in the first place. It is therefore to be well assumed that statements of the like are sincere. Similarly, Divinians do not generally take offense when an invitation is declined. Hospitality does extend beyond the home, and so it can safely be presumed that the party inviting a guest to an outing will pay for them. However, it should be noted that for many, especially among the Clientes, these outings are not only intended for pleasure but also for conducting business.
Despite the sometimes striking amount of leisure time in a Divinians schedule, being idle is frowned upon. Times for rest are generally considered time for enjoyable activities, not simply for reclining (despite what popular imagery would suggest). In actuality, this is often considered a waste of valuable time to be used for enrichment. Popular sports are fencing, swimming, discus, baseball, and running.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:39:35 GMT
Courtship
When courting a woman, it is expected that one maintains appropriate etiquette at all times. It is generally expected that the suitor will ask the parents of the lady for permission before approaching her with the question. Although parents have no legal authority to deny the arrangement if their daughter chooses to do so, asking the parents is a sign of respect to her family. This is especially important in noble or wealthy families, who may choose to cut their children out of the family for inappropriate matches.
The woman in question should be approached in a public setting, though not so public as to draw a crowd. It is ideal to have her escort present, if she has one, to ensure civility. When asking her, the question should be asked simply and directly, with little attempt at convincing or prose. The lady is in turn, expected to offer a simple affirmation of acceptance or rejection.
If the lady has accepted, decorum is still expected of the couple. Though they may go on outings or call on one another, it is always in good form to have the lady’s escort present. Public displays of affection are more accepted among young couples, though care should be taken to avoid being too forward. Generally, escorting the lady by holding her arm, or a peck on the cheek at parting, will not draw unwanted attention. Still, the couple are expected to sit in separate sections when appropriate, and must still bathe in separate baths. Tokens of affection are considered rather forward, as are poems or songs. Instead, spending time with your partner indicates your interest more than words can.
Many Divinians will express their romantic situation with flowers and plants, and this is also true of courting couples. The peony is the traditional symbol that one is currently courting someone, and men and women alike may choose to wear them on their clothing or in their hair to display this. Oftentimes, the deeper the color, the better the match is considered. This should not be equated to the passion of the person wearing the flower, but rather the social status of their partner. This is generally meant to dissuade potential suitors of a lower caliber from approaching and attempting to break the relationship.
It is expected that courtship will lead to marriage. Among some families, a ‘false marriage’ may happen after the couple have been together for an extended period. In this instance the couple will live together, with chaperones, for a period usually of a few months. The couple may use this as an indicator as to their ability to live together as man and wife, as well as anything they should need to improve in their domestic duties. Chaperones will typically refuse to interact with the couple in this arrangement at all, except to ensure that appropriate relations are maintained when necessary. The couple are not to share a bed, and are generally expected to sleep in separate areas of the house.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:40:59 GMT
Fashion and Grooming
Divinian fashion trends have undergone a rather dramatic shift since the turn of the century. The efforts of Latinization, Divinian nationalism, and the emergence of neo-classical movements in art, literature, and architecture have in turn changed the way in which Divinians dress and groom themselves.
Although always in existence, the use of public baths has notably increased in recent years. Aside from the notable comparison to the ways of Old Latium, it is believed that this influx of patrons may also be a result of the market crash, as it is cheaper to use public facilities than pay for water at home. Though the church has attempted to claim the baths a place of ill repute, the facilities are indeed separated by gender, with no way for interaction between the two.
As a result of this bathing frenzy, it has no longer been accepted simply to be clean. One must also smell pleasant. Subsequently, both men and women have taken to buying incense, perfumes, and scented oils to anoint themselves. Among the well to do, decorative vials of perfumed oils have become accessories as well as tools. The most popular scents are; mint, hyacinth, lilac, frankincense, rose, and citrus.
Among the fashionable, shaving has become a necessity for both genders. This is partly due to Latinization, but also a result of changing fashion trends leading both genders to expose more skin. Though a clean shaven face was the standard for men even before this decade, it is now common practice to shave leg, underarm, and chest hair as well. The increase in shaving, and it’s frequency, has increased not only the sale of razors, but depilliating and exfoliating stones (such as pumice) and creams, and most recently, the development of disposable blades for razors.
For women, hairstyles have changed little from the previous decade. Long, full hair is still the norm. Common hairstyles usually involve the hair being put half up in a bun or plaits around the crown of the head, with ringlets behind. For men, there are two prominent styles. Those seeking a more militant look will keep their hair cropped short. For civilians, a slightly longer style, slicked back reaching the nape of the neck has come into being. Ringlets are even fashionable among men, with discerning young gentlemen taking the time to curl their hair just as the women do.
The fashionable silhouette is indeed the most drastic shift seen among Divinians.
For children, a unisex look has been highly favored,wherein tunics and similar hairstyles can make young boys and girls nearly indistinguishable. For the sake of decency, bloomers or short pants are usually worn underneath. Given the climate, sandals are the shoe of choice, though close toed shoes and high stockings will be worn depending on the weather. Linen, cotton, wool, and the like may also be swapped as the fabric of choice depending on the season.
Following the overall trends, mens fashion has become more revealing. Though they have not quite adopted the neoclassical style in full, certain elements have been drawn upon to create a uniquely Divinian silhouette for the time. The typical undergarment is still a tunic, which is tucked under oneself when dressed. Breeches or full pants have remained in popularity, which rest just at or above the natural waist, and close with buttons or ties in the front. Both styles of bottoms are well fitted, though breeches often flare at the calf, unlike their historical counterparts. Shirts typically have high collars and long sleeves, with hems cut long and often at asymmetrical angles, often reaching the knees. Jackets are similarly cut, with short fronts and long tails, usually well tailored and left open or partly buttoned. The prominent style is to leave jacket sleeves short, ending at the elbow or mid-bicep. This allows the wearer to expose their shirt sleeves, which are often highly decorated with embroidery, and are usually made of more expensive fabrics. Some men have opted for a more avant garde approach, instead wearing a pallium, or cloak, in place of a jacket. This allows more of the shirt to be revealed. Many of these fashionable men have even opted to draw from female styles, with cutouts in their sleeves to expose bare shoulders, as well as petal or split cut sleeves. For footwear, sandals remain popular, though with the increase in militarism, boots have also become popular for everyday wear. It has been highly argued among fashionable circles, whether this emulation of military styles is a danger to the populace, or a show of solidarity with the troops.
Whether a man chooses one style over the other, the general silhouette remains. A lithe, slender figure is the height of fashion for men, intending to reveal a less muscled and more “natural looking” physique.
For women, the silhouette has become more egalitarian. Gone are the highly structured, bustle gowns of the 1890’s, in favor of more flowing, simple garments. A shift and corset are still used to create the desired silhouette, protect the clothing, and offer bust support. However, the shape of the corset has changed from a straight front to an hourglass, designed to accentuate the female form. Like the corsets worn for evening gowns in the last decade, these constructions have removable shoulder straps for when the skin is exposed.
Women are still expected to wear skirts or dresses, and pants on women are largely socially unacceptable without a skirt worn over them. The waist falls above the natural waistline. Unlike the original neoclassical resurgence in the late 18th century, dresses generally maintain a well fitted bodice. The bustle has gone through a major transition, now reduced greatly in volume and structure. The crinolette and bustle cage are no longer necessary to support the heavy trains of fabric they once did. Though trains themselves are still incredibly popular, they have been reduced to the role of an overskirt or peplum which can be as simple as an extra piece of fabric tied about the waist, or as complex as a constructed overskirt with hook and eye clasps to fasten to the gown. The hem of the skirt is most frequently tulip shaped, tapering slightly at the knees before sweeping out at the hem. This cut is impractical for everyday wear for the lower classes, who generally prefer a straight cut down. Sleeves are usually worn off the shoulder, or pinned in place, leaving gaps to expose the arms. This style is sometimes called the tunica caterina, after its adoption by the late empress. It is considered proper for women to wear sandals like anyone else, though court wear requires the wearing of heeled shoes. Typically, evening gowns and court attire are more modest than everyday wear out of respect for the age of the regent, and the young Emperor. It is still considered proper for women to cover their hair, though the extent of this is greatly diminished. Instead of proper hats, women have taken to wearing lace and gauze mantilla, usually pulled toward the back of the head and held in place with pins or combs. Jackets are generally considered male garments, so women will instead opt for a palla or shawl, allowing them to show their clothing efficiently. In a shocking display, some women have opted to keep themselves oiled after bathing, which allows the clothing to cling to their skin, much to the chagrin of the church.
It is incredibly frowned upon for men to wear makeup of any sort, outside of specific Aerali’i castes. Those in the military or cult may, on certain occasions, paint onto themselves with woad. This is typically done on the left side of the body, most notably the arm.
For women however, the wearing of makeup is considered good social etiquette. Rouge on the cheeks and cheekbones is intended to show youth and beauty. Eyeliner is typically applied on the upper lid along the waterline, preferably in brown, though black is also acceptable. Eyeshadow is frequently used, though it is generally only worn lightly and in muted shades of pink or brown. Lipstick however, may be bright red or a natural tone.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 4:43:33 GMT
Language of Flowers
Trillium: The Trillium is one of the most important flowers in Divinium. As an ancient symbol for both the Aerali’i and Christians, it was chosen to represent Divinium. As such, the trillium represents loyalty, faith, and patriotism. The native plants come in a red and white variety. Red typically for martyrdom or military service, and white for civil service. As such, these are usually only worn by members of the military or government.
Hyacinth: the Hyacinth is associated with nobility, as well as unyielding love or service. The purple hyacinth specifically, is associated with the Imperial Family. Legally, only members of the ruling family are allowed to wear the purple hyacinth. Other nobles will choose to wear the flower, with the shade indicating social standing. The primacy of color is as follows: Purple, burgundy, pink, orange, yellow, white.
Dandelion: The dandelion is a symbol of diligence. The flower was often incorporated into the corona graminea, due to its hardy nature and presence on the battlefield. Dandelion are often worn by those seeking employment or promotion, as good luck and to indicate their willingness to toil for success.
Forget-me-not: This flower is worn (usually by young ladies) to indicate that they wish to be left alone. This is typically intended toward potential suitors. Note, it indicates not that the wearer is currently spoken for, simply that they are not inclined toward engaging with others. It is best to leave someone wearing this flower to their own devices, unless the matter is important.
Rose: The rose is a symbol often associated with sexuality. Young women will typically wear rosebuds to indicate their virginity, whereas open roses are typically associated with prostitutes. The rose (particularly the bud) is a Marian symbol as well. If someone is presented with a rose, accepting it is implied to mean the person accepting is affirming their status as a virgin.
Poppy: The poppy is associated with manic obsession or overcoming hardship. Due to the association with opioids, Poppies are seen as symbolic of those who are single minded in pursuit of someone or something. Due to their difficulty transplanting, they are also meant to represent uncomfortability in a new situation. The distinguishing character is usually based on the location of the flower. When worn on the head, it indicates focus on a particular artistic or scholarly endeavor. Worn around the ankle or wrist indicates a new and uncomfortable venture. Worn on the chest, it represents an obsessive love.
Peony: The peony is a flower representing romantic love. It is often worn by those in committed relationships to represent commitment. The deeper the shade of the flower generally indicates the better social standing of the partner. Affection is shown based on the prevelsnce of the flower in an ensemble.
Nettle: The nettle is meant to represent brotherly love and camaraderie. As such it is a prevalent symbol among men of the Divinian Legions. There is an ancient tradition in Divinium wherein men with close bonds will grasp a stem in tandem, indicating their willingness to come into harm's way for their compatriots. In modern times, this is still often invoked, though does not necessarily have to use nettle, but any thorny branch or plant.
Honeysuckle: Honeysuckle is viewed as a symbol of maturity because the blossoms tend to become more aromatic as they wilt. As such, they are typically worn by older men and women, as well as those who are celebrating their coming of age ceremony.
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Post by Emperor Florin von Marcum on Jun 24, 2022 20:13:50 GMT
Aerali'i Creation Myth Before creation, the heavenly fields lay above the eternal void, tranquil in their balance. The fields had been sown and planted by nothing, as nothing had been ploughed in furrows by the fields. In this time, before time, Aera was one. She lived a pastoral life. A life never ending. Yet Aera existed for her own ends. Eventually she grew tired of her humble life, and sought to see her realm in all its glory. The eternal fields, however, would not allow her. Even she could not go where nothing existed. The eternal day stretched on, and Aera became more and more distraught. But still, she pressed on.
That day, she whispered to the fields. “Oh, I would stay here contented forever, if only I could see the edge of your domain. But the fields did not trust her. “Aera, you ask me the impossible. I cannot show you nothing, for it does not exist.”
That day, she spoke softly to the fields. “Oh, I would stay here contented forever, if only I could know there was truly nothing more.” But the fields did not trust her. “Aera, if you learn there is nothing you shall know nothing.”
That day, she conversed with the fields. “Oh, I would stay here contented forever, if only I were to be able to experience nothing, just once.” But the fields did not trust her. “You are something, not nothing. You cannot experience that which you are not.”
That day, she shouted to the heavens. “Oh, I truly will stay here content forever. Could you not ease my labor? Your fields are expansive, and I shall never know a moment's rest. The field, satisfied, bestowed upon Aera a hoe, with which to work.
That day, Aera took the hoe and ran to the fields. She broke the soil through eternal day, until the fields could hold no longer. Below stood a pit. Nothing. No warmth. No light. Not even darkness. The fields were right, Aera could not know nothing.
That day, faced with nothing, Aera wept. She wept forever, filling the nothing with her tears. But Aera could not know, for she knew nothing.
That day, she wept, and her body turned to stone. But her tears still flowed like a spring into the void. The volume was so great, that a pool formed where there once was nothing. In her anguish, Aera gave up her spirit. It shattered and flowed along with her tears into the pool.
Scattered, her soul, knowing nothing, seeded the pool. Above, the fields cried out to them. “Look around you, child. There is no longer nothing. You have created something from nothing. You must create, that you may know.”
In that night, they created. The light from the fields above warmed the souls, and they began to germinate. Rocks and grasses sprouted up, and the eternal pool was filled with life. Aera poured their scattered souls into a new form: the earth. Seeds of their souls floated about the pool, creating the stars. Yet still, Aera longed to have form as they once did. The eternal pool leaked onto the earth, and from one seed sprang woman. She, one of the Aera, stepped forth. Not whole, but filling her vessel nonetheless. The hole from the fields above was a mere speck in the sky, warming her mortal flesh. The first human was born.
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