Royal Orders

The Mantonian Royal Orders were formed from the twelve great armies that defended the town of Heldmar during the Battle of the Stars.

Although Mantoni is a kingdom, its King is essentially just a figurehead - with the true power lying with the Royal Council. Each of the Royal Orders nominates a single Sorcerer to sit on the council, with the Royal Order of the Crown represented by the king. Although the king chairs the council, he does not have a vote unless the issue is tied.

Each of the Royal Orders maintains a citadel within Great Heldmar and, in addition, controls various territories throughout the rest of Mantoni. The various Noble Orders each owe allegiance to one or more of the Royal Orders and it is common for Warrior Adventurers from these lesser orders to support their royal brethren.

With the obvious exception of the Order of the Crown, the Royal Orders are not based around any concept of inherent nobility and are entirely meritocratic, at least in theory. Any Mantonian may apply to join any order and their acceptance and eventual promotion is based entirely on their skill and judgement.

Ranks within the Royal Orders are the same as for Noble or Common Orders, but membership of a Royal Order lends greater note to that rank.

The twelve Royal Orders are as follows:

• The Royal Order of the Dragon
• The Royal Order of the Unicorn
• The Royal Order of the Lion
• The Royal Order of the Bear
• The Royal Order of the Hawk
• The Royal Order of the Phoenix
• The Royal Order of the Scorpion
• The Royal Order of the Viper
• The Royal Order of the Raven
• The Royal Order of the Dolphin
• The Royal Order of the Wolf
• The Royal Order of the Crown