Queendom of Amazonia

AMAZONIA

Name of Faction: The Queendom of Amazonia (To Basíleio tis Amazonías)

Government Type: hereditary-monarchy with a constitution (syntagma) and a “Rights of Women” documents. Only a woman may be the monarch (basilissa), and she is believed to be semi-divine (hence why this is also a theocratic regime). An advisor council made of priestesses and generals/admirals assists the monarch in her rule.

Current Faction Leader: Supreme Queen Penthesilea IV of the 10th dynasty. (Full name: Basilissa Penthesilea Eupatorea Sotira)

The Royal Family of the 10th dynasty

Supreme Queen Hippolyta XXIII. Lived: 1439 - 1494 (55). Reign: 1470 - 1494 (14). She is the daughter of Lysippe and the mother of Penthesilea. She has long golden-brown hair and green eyes. Queen-Consort Marpe III. Born: 1440. Age: 54. Reign: 1470 - ? She is the soul-mate of Hippolyta. She is tall, has long red hair, and green eyes. Berossos. Born: 1440. Age: 54. He is Hippolyta’s and Xeno’s reproductive partner. He is muscled, has short black hair, and blue eyes. General Xeno of Ambracia. Born: 1438. Age: 56. She is the mother of Otrera and Telamon, and is Amazonia’s greatest general. She is muscled, has short black hair, and brown eyes. Gabrielle. Born: 1441. Age: 53. She is the soul-mate of Xeno. She has blonde hair and blue eyes. Supreme Queen Penthesilea IV. Born: 1462. Age: 32. She is the daughter of Hippolyta. She is tall, has long chocolate-brown hair, and blue eyes. She is the mother of Melanippe and Molpadia. Queen-Consort Antiope V. Born: 1463. Age: 31. She is the soul-mate of Penthesilea. She is tall, has long blonde hair, and brown eyes. She is the mother of Alkaia. Icarus. Born: 1461. Age: 33. He is Penthesilea’s reproductive partner. He has long blonde hair and green eyes. Telamon. Born: 1464. Age: 30. He is the son of Xeno. He has long black hair and blue eyes. He is Antiope's reproductive partner. General Otrera. Born: 1477. Age: 17. She is the daughter of Xeno. She is tall, muscled, has short black hair, and ice blue eyes. Crown Princess Melanippe. Born: 1484. Age: 10. She is the daughter of Penthesilea and sister of Molpadia. She is tall, has long chocolate-brown hair, and blue eyes. Princess Molpadia. Born: 1484. Age: 10. She is the daughter of Penthesilea and sister of Melanippe. She is short, has short black hair, and brown eyes. Alkaia. Born: 1485. Age: 9. She is the daughter of Antiope. She has golden-brown hair and blue eyes. Kreousa. Born: 1482. Age: 12. She is tall, has curly red hair, and green eyes.

Official Language(s): Amazonian (similar to ancient Greek), Scythian, and Sarmatian.

Currency: cute or handsome slave boys and/or some types of jewelry unofficially. Officially it’s nothing as the warrior women don’t believe in money or economic social-classes.

Economic System: male-slaves provide the heavy labor and extraction of resources. Organized bartering takes place amongst citizens to distribute goods.

Name of Capitol: Themiskyra. It is a large settlement of 100,000 people (85% are female), with many old and majestic buildings, which is enclosed by a stone wall 4 meters thick and 5 meters tall that has numerous towers with ballistae in them. It is located along the eastern shore of the sacred Thermodon River in northern Anatolia.

Official National Anthem: We Are the Great Ones! . Unofficial National Anthem(s): Bringing Empowerment to Women Everywhere! , Crushing Resistance to Our Superiority! , Praise Unto the Sun and Moon! and O Amazonia! .

Official Religion(s):

Amazonism

Amazonism is a religion based upon the Sacred Scrolls, a set of religious text written in the 1700sBCE by priestesses of Cybele. Its central tenets are: women were created first; men were created after to serve women; women are superior to men; the purpose of life is to fight forces of evil, be happy, and strive to be healthy in body and mind; and followers are to do their best to empower women and/or convert others to Amazonism. This religion is polytheistic, with followers believing the great mother goddess created many other nature goddesses to protect her universe and make it beautiful. Goddesses are worshipped by offering sacrifices of male-prisoners of war and by conducting orgies. The latter is employed the most due to the belief that the goddesses feed off of the sexual energy released by a pure orgasm. Amazonian Pantheon of Goddesses Cybele – mother goddess and creator of the universe. Symbol: the full moon and a golden lioness. Demeter – goddess of earth and farming. Symbol: three grains of golden wheat. Amphitrite – goddess of water and sailing. Symbol: a silver trident. Artemis – goddess of beasts and hunting. Symbol: a crescent moon and a bow with an arrow. Athena – goddess of wisdom and war. Symbol: a brown owl and a bronze helmet. Libra – goddess of law and justice. Symbol: justice scales. Sappho – goddess of poetry. Symbol: a scroll and stylus. Lilith – goddess of love. Symbol: a drop of bright red blood. Tyche – goddess of luck. Symbol: a wheel with seven spokes. Nike – goddess of victory. Symbol: an olive wreath (kotinos). Phoebe – goddess of the sun and light. Symbol: a golden orb. Nyx – goddess of night and death. Symbol: a black orb. Amazonia is not usually tolerant of other religions.

Faction Colour: Blood Red (r: 164, g: 0, b: 0). Blood is very important to Amazonians as it symbolizes many things they highly value including: war, love, fertility, life, family, and loyalty.

Flag: a silver upright crescent moon resting on the backs of two sitting golden lionesses all of which is upon a blood red field. It is made from velvety fabric and the official flag has a golden fringe all along the edge.

Diplomacy

Friendly and Allies with: none Trade and Good Relations with: Queendom of Greater Gandhara, Realm of Gondor, and Ptolemaic Kingdom Neutral and Unconcerned with: Swiss Mercenary Confederation, Merchant Republic of Norway, and Republic of Venice Displeased and Poor Relations with: Crown of Aragon, Crown of Castile, German Empire, Kingdom of France, Russian Empire, and Papal States Hostile and At War with: various rebel states Surplus Resources Available for Trade (in order of how plentiful and easily the Amazons can trade them): silver, pottery, timber, copper, textiles, jewelry, strong and fast horses, cosmetics that totally eliminate the looks of aging, powerful composite bows, and iron-tipped arrows blessed by Artemis.

Culture

Amazonians live for pleasure and violence, and all aspects of their culture can be divided into these two categories. Amazon girls begin their education at the age of five with their first skills consisting of archery and horseback riding. Girls in the cities and towns are taught as a group by a couple teachers in a grove. Girls living in the countryside are taught individually by private tutors. Subjects include mathematics, reading, writing, physics, biology, military history, astronomy, and sports. Education continues until 18 years of age when the girl then chooses which specific field (such as military, politics, theater, engineering, etc.) she wants to be in. She’ll then enter an academy for advance education of that field. Priestesses of Athena tend to make up most of the academic professors. 18 years of age is also when a girl becomes a full-fledged citizen of the state, unless she is a social or familiar. Citizens have many rights such as freedom of speech, right to bear arms, and the right to replace the current queen with a different royal family member guaranteed under the constitution, and even more under the Rights of Women such as the right to a fair trial. Citizens can only be women. Any foreign woman or girl may apply for citizenship, from which she will be known as a Social since she needs to “socialize” with citizens and learn the culture. A Social may be allowed to join the military as a Familiar. Familiars are similar to the squires of Europa as they take care of the horses and weapons of the warriors. Due to being in the military, a Familiar will become very “familiar” with Amazonian culture and will usually become a citizen a lot quicker. Once a woman has renounced her old life, converted to Amazonism, completes basic education and enters an academy, and declares Amazonian culture to be superior to all others, then she will be declared a full-fledged citizen of the state. Proof of citizenship is a letter signed by the current Queen given to the woman who has finished all of the requirements. Girls tend to develop relationships – and are encouraged to do so – with other girls by age 12 (which is also the Age of Consent under the law). If a girl is interested in guys, her mother will usually allow her to have one by age 17. Amazonian society supports and encourages polyamory and bisexuality to the fullest extent. It is taboo for an Amazonian to be submissive when having sex, and guys are not allowed to take up male-dominant positions. For that matter, it is also illegal for an Amazonian to curtsey to anyone as it is seen as humiliating. A pure-blood Amazon tends to give birth to daughters 75% of the time, rather than 50% like other women. Pure-bloods are Amazonians directly descended from the original “Daughters of Ares” by Harmonia. Since it is believed that men know nothing about nurturing children, only women are allowed to raise daughters in Amazon society. However, most sons are given to their fathers to take care of. Clothing is usually made from linen and wool. Most citizens in Amazonia wear a simple tunic called a chiton that goes down to the knees. This would be secured by a girdle. A cloak called a chlamys, made from wool, is also popular to wear and would be secured by a fibula at the right shoulder. In wet or cold weather a large and heavy woolen cloak called a himation would be worn. Most clothing is dyed in various shades of red, green, or blue. Some are dyed black or purple and that is reserved for royalty. Footwear consists only of sandals, though the ones issued to warriors have thicker soles on the bottom with hobnails pounded in them. Nearly all citizens wear no headgear, except those who wear sweatbands when exercising and the Queen and Crown Princess who each wear a diadem. The Crown Princess wears a silver diadem with intricate designs etched around it. The Queen wears a gold diadem with rubies inlayed in the front and intricate designs etched around them. Priestesses wear special robes made from silk. Men either wear loincloths or tunics. All the Amazonians love nature. They worship their goddesses and teach their young in sacred forest groves. Their towns and cities overflow with flowers, vines, and trees. Trees tend to line the streets and be on either side of staircases. Vines grow on nearly every wall, and in front of nearly all windows are planters for flowers. Most medicines and effective birth-control products are derived from unique plants found in Amazonia. To provide water for all these plants, as well as for the public baths and fountains, the Amazons are expert aqueduct engineers and any town or city that calls itself Amazon must have at least one aqueduct. Public baths are probably the most used building (next to academies) that Amazonians socialize in. Women like to be clean and it is normal for an Amazonian to bathe at least twice a day, every single day. Amazonian public baths are very similar to ancient Roman baths: they are divided into three sections (cold, mild, and hot baths) and have an outdoor gymnasium field. Every public bath place has a staff of professional masseuses who give the most excellent massages… to women only of course. Public baths are the second most popular places (with religious groves being first) for Amazonians to find new partners and make out with them at. There are many forms of entertainment in Amazonia, most of which are athletic. Plays at theaters are popular, but gladiator games at arenas are even more so. Only men that are captured prisoners of war may be gladiators and they usually fight themselves or exotic beasts. Games are only held after a significant victory has been achieved (in-game: I get a [6] or greater). Currently there is only one arena which is located at Themiskyra. Chariot and horse races are extremely popular and are held once a month in every city. Any girl or woman with a horse may enter and win prizes such as jewelry or slave boys. A National Athletics Competition is held once a year at Themiskyra. It is very similar to the ancient Olympic Games of Greece and contains such events as swimming, discus throwing, javelin throwing, a ten-mile run, archery, wrestling, row boating, etc. No men are allowed to join. Amazonians also love music as well as poetry, which are closely tied together. The most common musical instruments the warrior women use are timpani, kitharas (a fancy lyre), cymbals, pan pipes, harps, and auloi (double flutes). Trumpets and large drums are used for grand ceremonies. Music is played almost everywhere constantly: at the Queen’s Palace, Public Baths, Theaters, Arenas, Race Tracks, Sacred Groves, etc. Musicians are usually citizens who chose to specialize in music at the academies, though they can also be men who are slaves to these citizens. Writing a poem is a requirement of citizenship and so every Amazonian has written at least one poem. Poetry is a special way to communicate your feelings about a certain aspect of life. It is usually sung, with music accompanying it, to an audience. A Poetry Competition is held once a year in Themiskyra.

History

Ares, God of War, and Harmona, the river nymph of Thermodon, were consumed with lust and had a fling and Harmona soon gave birth to a LOT of daughters; enough to form a tribe. This tribe settled along the river Thermodon in the 1700sBCE and – being the radical feminists they were – fought all the nearby tribes to kill the men and “rescue” the women. The men called these warrior women “amazons,” which means in their language “those who make war,” since they were surprised that a group of women were making war on them. The word stuck and was accepted by the warrior women as their name. The Amazons proclaimed a “queen” to lead them on these campaigns. All the early queens were elected by a council to serve for life. Otrera I was the first Queen of the Amazons. She realized the tribe would die out without men around for procreation. So she attacked the all-male tribe of the Gargareans to the east and enslaved all of them. These men were the first to be taught about mans’ true place in the world: below that of women. The Sacred Scrolls, which proclaimed that men were made to serve women, not killed by women, were written shortly after this event. It became more common therefore to enslave, rather than kill, most men in defeated societies from that time on. Queen Lysippe I, who succeeded Otrera, founded the settlement of Themiskyra in the 1600sBCE along the banks of the Thermodon River to be the capital of the growing Queendom. Themiskyra would be a small, open town with about a thousand people until the 1400sBCE where it grew into a city of tens of thousands. Then it became heavily fortified with mighty walls built around it limiting expansion in the 1200sBCE. The population remained stable between thirty and forty-thousand people until around 300BCE when it declined. In the early 1400sBCE, on the Island of Lesbos, a woman by the name of Sappho lived. She was a passionate poet as well as lover… the Goddess Athena visited her in an erotic dream where they made love. Athena departed some of her essence into Sappho to create a daughter. The poet then had a virgin birth of a daughter she named Myrina. The modern day royal family claims to be directly descended from Myrina, and so its members are believed to be semi-divine and have therefore ruled with divine right over Amazonia. Sappho was later made the Goddess of Poetry upon her death by Athena. Myrina quickly rose to a position of power in Amazonia when she arrived and soon was elected Queen. She founded the First Dynasty and turned the nation into an absolute monarchy. She effectively crushed all of the Queendom’s main enemies in fantastic battles and led numerous expeditions to exotic lands, earning her great fame and prestige among the warrior women. Myrina built one of the greatest empires the world… hasn’t really heard about. The Ancient Amazonian Empire Dark red: directly ruled by Amazonia Bright red: tributary states, vassals, and/or protectorates of the empire image After she died a noble death in battle in Thrace, Myrina’s empire split in two. One state was based around the grand city of Triton in North Africa, but a coalition of Greek states sent an expedition to destroy it in 1400BCE. These “Libyan Amazons” fled south across the Great Desert after the sack of Triton, never to be seen again… The other state, simply known as Amazonia, was based around Themiskyra, where the Second Dynasty arose (though they continued to believe they were descended from Myrina), and continued to survive by fighting wars continuously against neighboring states. Amazonia allied with the Scythian tribes across the Black Sea to the north, fought with Troy against the Greeks to the west, continued to enslave men from the east, and helped destroy the Hittites to the south. Queens Marpesia and Lampedo reinvigorated the Queendom by conquering most of Anatolia and Armenia in the 800sBCE. They also sent expeditions to the far west, far north, and to the far east, all of which established colonies and new tribes that lost contact with the motherland. The Assyrians dashed the hopes of rebuilding the old empire by killing Marpesia in battle. Amazonia allied with the Persian Empire to fight their common foe of the Greeks in the 500s and 400sBCE. The Queendom prospered for a time, but when it saw the Persians declining, they prepared for the worst. And the worst did happen in the 330sBCE. A single man – Alexander III of Macedonia – crushed all the Persian armies and seized their empire in the name of Greece! The Queen at the time, Thalestris of the Seventh Dynasty, was advised by her priestesses to have sex with Alexander in order to have a daughter. This daughter was predicted to be Myrina 2.0 and restore the glory of Amazonia! Alexander welcomed the Amazon queen in his court and did have a fling with her (of course), but she did not get pregnant unfortunately. The Macedon king did ensure that Amazonia was never attacked during his reign though. After Alexander died, his empire self destructed as numerous generals fought each other over pieces of it. These diadochi were so distracted attacking each other, they left the Queendom alone. Not that it mattered since the warrior women were migrating north, leaving their homeland. The Amazon-Scythian Alliance over time had given rise to new tribes: the Sarmatians, who had a very similar culture to the traditional Amazons. People known as “Pontics” moved in and renamed Amazonia to “Pontos.” Amazonia was nearly abandoned by the warrior women, but in 400CE many of them returned back to the Themiskyra. The reason for this was the Huns who had defeated most of the Sarmatian tribes and were establishing their male-dominance rule over the steppes. The Amazons would have none of that crap and so they migrated back south. The Roman Empire was falling apart and so the Queendom was easily re-established under the Ninth Dynasty, despite the annoying religion of Christianity being nearly everywhere. What was unique about this new state was that the citizens created a document called the Syntagma (later Constitution), which would be the supreme law of the land. And everyone, including the royal family, were required to obey its laws. The Supreme Queen would be held accountable by her people and therefore Amazonia became the first constitutional monarchy, as opposed to an absolute monarchy. Still… the monarchy held a lot of power considering that dreams were sent to the Supreme Queen and priestesses interpreted the goddesses will. And if that will was to change the syntagma to give more power to the monarchy, then it would be done! The syntagma therefore became more a theory than actual fact. Amazonia switched allegiances between Byzantium and Sassanian Persia many times to survive. In the 700sBCE, when the horrible Islamic armies crushed Persia and conquered most Byzantine territory, the warrior women were nearly destroyed. Islam, and its blasphemous texts known as the Koran, did a good job beating down women and proclaiming men superior. Lack of socials and familiars was worse than ever before, but the few warrior women that there were, were fuelled by hatred for the two great monotheistic male-oriented religions surrounding them. Things changed significantly when Queen Hippolyta XXIII came to the thronos in 1470 C.E. because… well because all the major powers in the world descended into anarchy at once! The world was now filled with rebel states of all shapes and sizes. The ancient and rigid state of Amazonia survived of course. I mean who would dare to oppose the half-divine queen and her council of priestesses that interpreted the goddesses’ will? No citizen would. Hippolyta promised a new age for Amazonia where their ancient power would be restored. After training a professional army of ten-thousand women to the best of her ability, the queen gave her daughter, Crown Princess Penthesilea, command of it and charged her with reclaiming the ancient homelands…

Military

Women Power: Under the Amazonian Constitution and the Rights of Women, the Amazonian military is a full-time professional career for voluntary citizens. Citizens between the ages of 16 - 24 and 30 - 40 may sign up for the army or navy. The ages of 25 - 29 are reserved as the “childbearing” years and no pregnant citizen is allowed to join. In times of crises, though, that rule goes out the window and it becomes mandatory for all Amazonians aged 14 to 48 to enter the military. Discipline is fierce and training is harsh. Teamwork and cohesion is emphasized above all (hence why girls are encouraged to develop relationships with other girls). Organization: Having been influenced by their Roman neighbors for more than five-hundred years, the Amazonian land-based military is divided into legions of 5,000 women. Two or more legions together make an army. A legion is categorized as either a cavalry, missile, or infantry legion and is commanded by a legate. A legion is divided into twenty-five syntagmata of 200 women and this unit is commanded by a syntagmatairch. Each syntagma has a herald and a trumpeter to help give commands, and each syntagma is divided into twenty lochoi of 10 women each. A lochos is commanded by a lochagos. Weapons and Armour: Traditionally, women had to pay for their armour. But with the increased male-labor force providing great supply to meet every citizen’s demand, and the constitution abolishing money, the state now provides every warrior with an appropriate suit of equipment. Weapons are also provided by the state, though many times individual women will make their own. The most common metal used is iron, but for royal family members, steel is used. Heavy cavalry have iron plate-armour, greaves, and helmets decorated with red plumes. Horses of important officers or royal family members are given full barding. Light cavalry women usually wear tunics or nothing at all, except a belt with a quiver full of arrows attached. Their horses usually have nothing on them, not even a saddle with stirrups. Such is the talent of the Amazon horsewomen! Heavy cavalry are armed with a lance called a xyston, a curved slashing sword (kopis), and a mace. Light cavalry is divided into javelin cavalry and horse archers both of which have curved slashing swords. Horse archers have the famous Amazonian composite bows, which are very powerful, and deadly arrows blessed by priestesses of Artemis! Foot archers have the same bows and arrows, but have short straight swords. Elite foot archers are equipped with iron cuirasses, greaves, and helmets with red plumes on them. The Amazonians deploy various types of infantry including: spear-women, swordswomen, ax-women, and pike-women. All infantry are equipped with hard-leather linthorax armour, iron breast plates, helmets with horse-hair crests, and a crescent-shaped shield (pelta) with a boss in the center. Spears (dorys) are about 2.5 meters long while pikes (sarissas) are around 6 meters long. Longswords are used by the warrior women and are wielded in two hands. Two types of axes are used: the sagaris and the labrys. The sagaris is a small, single blade, throwing ax invented by the Amazons. The labrys is a large, double-blade, battle-ax wielded with two hands that was invented by the Minoans. All warriors are armed with short swords called xiphoi as secondary weapons. Some have throwing knives and chakrams as secondary weapons also. There is a special legion of 5,000 women known as the Agèma, or “Royal Guards,” that is always stationed at Themiskyra. It is composed of elite archers, and spear and ax-women. They guard the capital city and any royal family members therein. It is rumored that no man can kill them for such is their expertise at snuffing out life! Navy The Amazonian Navy was founded in 1481 C.E. and is therefore brand new. Its sailors and marines have yet to be tested in battle, but the Queen is confident that they will fight fiercely when the time comes and make her proud. Every fleet is commanded by a Priestess of Amphitrite, Goddess of the Seas, and the Head Priestess of this cult commands the entire Navy. Each fleet comes with numerous transportation galleys that gives the Queendom the ability to deploy its armies anywhere along the shores of Black or Mediterranean Seas. The main warship that composes the fleets is the galleass. Bigger than a standard galley, these vessels have four banks of oars on either side, three masts equipped with the sails of a regular sailing ship, and a fore and aft-castle. The oars are manned by slave-men with three per oar. The sailors and marines are women. The top deck of the ship is lined with shields along the side. The two “castles” at each end of the vessel is where the ballistae for launching Greek fire and the small cannons for blasting holes in the enemy are located. The galleass also has a ram at the front for smashing an enemy ship into two. The marines are comprised of Sagaris-armed ax-women and archery contingents. There are 140 ax-women and 140 archers on each galleass. There are also 22 women in-charge of firing the ballistae and cannons on each ship. Current Naval Strength: 1 small fleet (flagship name: Nuisance Value) in the Black Sea. 1 medium fleet (flagship name: Revisionist) in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

Court Etiquette

When a foreign ambassador comes to the ancient city of Themiskyra, capitol of the Queendom of Amazonia, he/she shall be approached by a contingent of the Agèma. If it is a man, he and his guards will forcibly be disarmed and then shoved along to the Queen’s Palace. If it is a woman, she will be given top priority and escorted to the Queen’s Palace immediately. The Queen’s Palace is a great marble structure with beautiful frescoes along the walls and exquisitely-carved pillars. There are many pools of water inside and openings in the roof where the sun goddesses’ rays shine through. There is a large quantity of potted flowers all along the walls and the air has a lovely scent. The Thronos Room is a grand hall with an entire wall composed of windows and huge curtains on either side. Before the windows is a raised dais with two tall thrones upon it, with one being slightly larger and taller. The two seats of power are made from majestically-carved dark wood and have dark red velvety cushions embedded into them. The fronts of the armrests are carved into the heads of lionesses and the feet of the chairs are carved to resemble paws. Our semi-divine Supreme Queen will be wearing a golden diadem with rubies inlaid in it and will be seated in the larger of the two thrones. Her Queen-Consort and soul-mate will be wearing a plain golden diadem and will be seated in the smaller throne to her left, close to her heart. A male ambassador is to get on both knees and grovel before her Majesty saying, “All life, prosperity, and health to you, Great Queen!” When the Queen bids him to rise he may speak on behalf of his nation. A female ambassador only needs to kneel on one knee and tip her head a little saying, “May you live a long and pleasurable life.” The Queen will ask her to rise and – if the ambassador is suffering from aging – will offer her a gift of Amazonian cosmetics. Then she may speak on behalf of her nation.

You may send your ambassadors here. Please make sure they follow the court etiquette. Oh, and: Welcome to Amazonia!

♀ Summary of Foreign Policy ♀
As set out in the Speech from the Throne of 1494 C.E.

Official Scroll

The Near East and East Africa Queendom of Greater Gandhara Stance: Friendly/Concerned Current Treaties: Trade Rights Summary: Our long lost sisters have survived! Descendants of one of our ancient expeditions to the east, these Gandharans shall be viewed forever as friends. Their culture is similar to our own and they are ruled by queens like any proper society should. Their religion is a mixture of Buddhism and the Amazonian pantheon. Despite Buddhism being founded by a man (the Buddha), its teachings are good for achieving health in body and mind. We are concerned that this Queendom is so open though… they have made alliances with patriarchal states. We must work to reverse this trend. Ptolemaic Kingdom Stance: Pleased/Cautious Current Treaties: Trade Rights Summary: The Muslims are dead! A new society has been established, one that worships goddesses. We are pleased and have shown this with the establishment of trade rights. With Egypt still ruled by a man, Amazonia still has a healthy dose of caution towards this state. Nonetheless we like the status quo and don't want to see Egypt invaded by foreign powers. Egypt has made tremendous progress. Papal States Stance: Displeased/Extremely Cautious Current Treaties: none Summary: The most Christian of all Christian factions, the Holy See is held in contempt by the Amazonians. We will never be friendly towards a faction ruled by a man who thinks he has divine right from some “god.” Their location in the Levant concerns us greatly. Already they have claimed Syria and Cyprus, which is abhorrent. Amazonia will pursue an aggressive policy of securing Phoenicia and Cyprus before these Catholics get there. If they try to counter us, we will slaughter them! May the Goddesses bless us! And may they curse this Pope and his minions… The Balkans and Eastern Europe Kingdom of Gondor Stance: Neutral/Cautious Current Treaties: Trade Rights Summary: This is a strange faction. These “Gondorian” people seem to have come from another world, whether they transported themselves or came through a portal remains to be seen. They are ruled by a king, which is displeasing to hear. However, they seem to have an egalitarian society where women are treated with respect and allowed to fight if they wish. They are located along the Danube River, which flows into the Black Sea. Our Sea. If they expand towards Amazonia’s sea this will be a cause for concern since our capital is on the shore of the sea. If any faction reaches the Black Sea, we will be suspicious and build a large navy to protect our shores… in an aggressive manner. For now we have established trade with them. Russian Empire Stance: Displeased/Unconcerned Summary: A Christian state, this “empire” of a few regions is ruled by a man called a Tsar. We don’t like Christians and the patriarchy they advocate, so we don’t like Russians. However, these Russkies are far away in Russia. So for now, we don’t give a damn about them. Scandinavia, Central Europe, and Italy Merchant Republic of Norway Stance: Neutral/Unconcerned Summary: Not much is known about this state, but they seem to be strange people whose manners are most bizarre. They must be secretive; we can appreciate that. They have foolishly elected a man to run the republic there, which hurts our relations with them. However, they seek wealth and trade and probably are a secular society, despite Christianity being dominant there. We could perhaps send some missionaries there to revitalize paganism and push back the worship of a “God” and his “son”… Norway is so very far away though… so we are unconcerned for now. German Empire Stance: Displeased/Unconcerned Summary: A Christian state, this “empire” of a few regions is also ruled by a man called a Kaiser. While we do not send agents against neutral states, we are pleased to here he was assassinated. We don’t like Christians and the patriarchy they advocate, so we don’t like Germans. However, Germans are far away in… Germany. So for now, we don’t give a damn about them. Swiss Mercenary Confederation Stance: Neutral/Curious Summary: An interesting faction, these Swiss mercenaries might be useful to Amazonia. However, they want to be paid in lands, which is unacceptable. And besides… we’ll probably never enter Europa, so it is doubtful we’ll ever ask for their assistance. Still, we will pursue amicable relations with the Swiss since we do not want them employed by those who wish war upon Amazonia. We will send an ambassador to them soon to discuss this. Their national anthem we find… disturbing. Republic of Venice Stance: Displeased/Very Cautious Summary: The official religion of Venice is Christianity and its main ruler is a man. This undoubtedly hurts our diplomatic relations with them. Their claims concern us, especially the ones in the Eastern Mediterranean and Black seas… we will not pursue trade with them until they abandon these claims. From what we have heard, they will not and so Amazonia is on full alert as to what they might do. Republic of Genoa Stance: Neutral/Unconcerned Summary: The official religion of Genoa is Christianity and its main ruler is a man. This undoubtedly hurts our diplomatic relations with them. However, these Genoese are a people who seek wealth and trade with all. A secular society would be a tolerable society to deal with. And now that we have adopted aggressive expansionist policies we know that having trade partners will be important to fuel our war machine. Being a bit far in Italy, Genoa is of little concern to us at this moment. Western Europe and West Africa Crown of Aragon Stance: Displeased/Unconcerned Summary: No doubt ruled by a king, Aragon’s official religion is Christianity. They also allow Muslims to live in their lands! Muslims! Blasphemers! This is despicable! We will not pursue any kind of diplomatic relations with this kingdom until Islam is purged from their lands. It is doubtful they will ever be a tolerable secular society since their king no doubt thinks his “God” gave him the right to rule. However, they are very far away in Spain. So for now, we don’t give a damn. Crown of Castile Stance: Displeased/Unconcerned Summary: Ruled by a king, Castile’s official religion is Christianity. It is doubtful they will ever be a tolerable secular society since their king no doubt thinks his “God” gave him the right to rule. However, they have made trade agreements and an alliance with Gandhara, our fellow sisters. But then they made the same treaties with Aragon! And we do not like Aragon, so… we do not like Castile either. But like Aragon, Castile is very far away in Spain. So for now, we don’t give a damn. Kingdom of France Stance: Displeased/Unconcerned Summary: Ruled by a king, France’s official religion is Christianity. Most unfortunate. It is doubtful they will ever be a tolerable secular society since their king no doubt thinks his “God” gave him the right to rule. But since they are far away in… France, we don’t give a damn about them either. Kingdom of England Stance: Displeased/Unconcerned Summary: They are so very far away why should we bother talking about them? But they exist so… Ruled by a king, England’s official religion is Christianity. This is all disappointing. They might become a secular society seeing as they have a constitution limiting their king’s big head and the theory of divine right. In the end though… we don’t give a damn.

Note: Foreign Policy will be updated every two years.

I would offer trade and offer to help you take the Eastern Islands and give them to you later on, but I get the feeling I am going to get smacked down

Originally Posted by Spartan999

I would offer trade and offer to help you take the Eastern Islands and give them to you later on, but I get the feeling I am going to get smacked down

You would be right. I am bound by my role-play to act a certain way.

IC: “We hate Muslims,” Supreme Queen Hippolyta says from her throne. “Islam is a most blasphemous and patriarchal religion. Unless your people abandon that faith, Amazonia will never have friendly relations with Egypt. The land of the Nile used to be so nice when you worshiped goddesses alongside gods and hailed your queens (such as the famous Cleopatra) as semi-divine.

Now the barbaric Arabs have invaded and dominate Egypt,” she sneers. “Goddesses! I hate Arabs. My grandmother hated them too, even before she lost her hand in battle against them. It is my duty as queen to make sure Amazonia has strong frontiers to prevent those unwashed desert barbarians from reaching Themiskyra’s gates. Revenge? That would be good too..." Hippolyta realized she was rambling and so stopped, and thrusted her scepter out at the foreign man.

"Be gone, wretch! I never want to hear from Egypt again unless great revolutions take place there. And I hope you never build a navy in the Mediterranean as that would threaten the sacred islands that rightfully belong to us. Otherwise we will begin making war preparations against you.”

An adviser walks over and whispers to Hippolyta. The Queen looks thoughtful for a moment, and then: “How about we make a deal? As you might know, the Republic of Venice seeks to invade Egypt and build a canal at Suez. I’m sure your Sultan is not too happy about that… So, I propose that in exchange for you not building any fleets, that Amazonia’s fleets will attack any Venetian fleets that enter the Eastern Mediterranean. While it is sickening to admit that we would be defending your shores, we would be protecting our own from you at the same time, which is more important.

What do you say to this arrangement?” Hippolyta clicks some kind of lever on the side of the thronos, causing the back of it – and the queen – to lean back. She snaps her fingers to have a slave boy to begin massaging her shoulders as she waits for the Egyptian’s response.

Well I would have played as the Ptolemy, but I would have looked a bit stupid when everyone was choosing a medieval kingdom (plus I am multi religious as a nation )

Ugh should have put a EGYPTIAN name for my leader and heir.

Can I make fleets at the Central Med? I mean its not going to interfere with your whole interest and I would not be a danger to you

Well, I was New Kingdom Egypt in EWs V. And that was awesome. My role-play was excellent! I even won the game! You don’t have to do what others are doing. I’m doing a mythological bronze-age people after-all!

IC: “Yeah, that’s fine. Go bother the Italians in the Central Mediterranean. We fully support Christians and Muslims killing each other as they have always done.” Hippolyta gives a thumbs-up to the ambassador. “That way Amazonia kills two ugly birds with one beautiful stone of death.
Are we agreed?” she says, eyes half-closed as her shoulders are kneaded by her body-slave. "I mean about the no Ayyubid fleets in East Med. and Amazonia protecting Egypt from Venetian aggression?"

I would try to roll play a little but most of my imagination goes out the window after college

Yes we agree to this, thank you for your time.

~1481CE~
The Crown Princess is Mated with Her Soul-Mate!

Penthesilea is on the right fyi

Crown Princess Penthesilea first met Antiope at an annual chariot race in Themiskyra. They were the only contestants remaining during the final round, and the princess was impressed with the country-girl’s handling of her horses. She almost lost the race due to be being distracted by the curvy and swaying body of Antiope in her chariot. Penthesilea won the race just barely and afterwards asked Antiope to stay a while in Themiskyra… with her. She agreed and together they got to know each and became close friends. Antiope gifted her property to a relative and moved into the city to stay with the charming princess. She became a professional chariot-racer for Team Green.

When the princess went off to war a second time in 1481, Antiope became saddened and realized a Truth: she was in love with Penthesilea. And Penthesilea, after being slightly wounded at the Assault of Sivas, realized that she was in love with Antiope as well and must tell her before something serious happens that prevents her (such as death). Not only did an arrow pierce her shoulder that day, but an arrow also pierced her heart. When the Crown Princess returned to Themiskyra, she and Antiope rushed into each other’s arms and declared their love for each other. They soon consummated their love during an orgy at Lilith’s Sacred Grove.

They soon tell each of their mothers that they wish to be mated. Queen Hippolyta then takes charge of the preparations for the mating ceremony. (All the ceremony does, though, is tell society that Penthesilea and Antiope are soul-mates. This does not mean that they aren’t allowed to have flings with other girls or guys. That is perfectly fine and legal; they just need to seek approval from their soul-mate before they do the fling) The ceremony takes place at Lilith’s Sacred Grove with a couple thousand attending. The Head Priestess of Lilith chants the sacred rights and has the couple stand before her. She asks them if they will be true and loyal to each other, and if their love will be eternal through both sickness and health. Both Penthesilea and Antiope say “yes” in a firm, but excited tone. “Then I pronounce you as soul-mates in the eyes of the goddesses. You may kiss,” the priestess finishes. The two women wrap each other in their arms, pressing against each other and, closing their eyes, lock their lips together. The crowd erupts into cheers and applause.

The Crown Princess and (now) Princess ride east down the coast on their horses to enjoy their honeymoon. They stay at a beach house… and wear out the bed until it collapses. They then sleep under the stars on the beach. Their lovely vacation will last for three months.

~1484~
The Royal Family Grows!

Crown Princess Penthesilea finding out she's pregnant

At the age of 22 the Crown Princess felt she was ready to be a mother. General Xeno took full command of Amazonia’s armies while Penthesilea stayed at Themiskyra. Penthesilea had always found her slave, Icarus, to be handsome. She used him for stress-relief and demanded he perform for her ever since she got him three years ago, which he was happy to oblige. This time, the Crown Princess did not fiddle with birth control pills and after seven days of love making, she became pregnant. For nine months the Amazonian heir was unable to lead armies to glorious victories, but she supervised the training of new warriors and helped her mother, the Queen, in ruling the Queendom while waddling around with a swollen belly.

In the late summer of 1484, Crown Princess Penthesilea was ready to give birth. Contractions started in the evening of a cool summer night while she was reading a treatise called Latest Tactical Maneuvers Involving Firearm Units, and so she was led by her servants to the birthing room of the palace. She sank into the silk cushions of the birthing chair as her soul-mate, Princess Antiope, rushed in to see her. Statues of Cybele and lionesses were placed around the birthing chair and an amulet was placed on Penthesilea’s brow. Servants cooled the Crown Princess with palm fans and wet towels as the contractions increased. She became a little delirious nonetheless and mumbled something about “Fire in the hole takes on a whole different meaning here.”

The Head Priestess of Cybele was overseeing the birth, and she chanted: “Make the heart of the deliverer strong, and keep alive the one that is coming…” She placed a beautifully carved ivory crescent-shaped wand upon the abdomen of Penthesilea. The wand’s magic would protect the mother and child it was believed, but a midwife rushed in to assist with the birth anyway. She had the Crown Princess drink some potions to ease the labor and told Antiope to hold Penthesilea’s hand. After much shouting and pushing, a baby girl appeared in the midwife’s arms.

Antiope and her mate were about to celebrate when the midwife said, “There’s another.” Both princesses’ smiles fell. This would not be good if there were twin girls. Who would inherit the throne of Amazonia after Penthesilea passed? Civil war could be a distinct possibility. Suddenly, Penthesilea felt it and nearly crushed Antiope’s hand in her own as more contractions came.

A very small baby girl appeared and the midwife wrapped both twins in swaddling clothes. The princesses looked on with conflicting emotions. Yay! Two potential queens of Amazonia… She’s beautiful! Two sides in a potential war… I have twin daughters! What should be done? “We’ll discuss this later,” Antiope says gently. “In the meantime, what shall we name them, my love?” Antiope asked while holding the larger baby. “What have you seen?” It is well known that Amazon mothers have vivid dreams or visions while pregnant or while giving birth. The subject of these visions is where the name of the child comes from.

Penthesilea has a faraway look in her eyes while holding the small baby girl to her chest. Then: “I have seen a great black mare riding down the sea shore into the sunrise. That was my first dream and the most powerful. We shall name the first twin Melanippe, ‘Black Mare.’”

“I have a feeling she will have a great destiny in steering Amazonia’s future,” Antiope says while cooing at Melanippe in her arms. “And the other?” she said, glancing at the little bundle in her mate’s arms.

Penthesilea frowns. “I have seen death,” she whispers. Everyone in the room freezes. Did this mean the child would die? “I have seen a great battlefield covered in corpses. And I heard music; an eerie tune that ebbs and fades.” There seemed to be a sigh of relief in the room. The girl wouldn’t die… but a lot of other people would.

“Those corpses are of men, right?”

“I cannot tell. But I think it’s clear what to name this little girl: Molpadia, ‘Death Song.’”

“Let us hope she brings death to Amazonia’s enemies,” Antiope says with a hint of nervousness. And not to ourselves, she said in silence.

A week later a party was planned at the Queen’s Palace and Crown Princess Penthesilea invited ambassadors from friendly foreign lands to come and attend. The ambassadors could congratulate the two princesses for the continuation of the royal family and bring gifts for the twins.

OOC: by the way, this is going to be the beginning of an epic saga. If my faction isn’t destroyed, a great epic story will unfold within it.

~1484~
Themiskyra

With proper management of the male-slave work force, the Amazons have completed the expansion of their capitol city. Supreme Queen Hippolyta boasts "I have found a city of brick, but I leave it as a city of marble." Indeed it is a city that shines brilliantly when the sun goddess’s rays are upon it.
The city is laid out with streets in a well-organized grid pattern, and so anyone can find their way around. Mighty stone walls, hundreds of meters high, protect the more than 70,000 Amazonian citizens within. The streets are paved with precisely cut stones. There is a large arena (where men fight and die for the sport of the Amazons), bustling agoras, beautiful fountains, entertaining theaters, exceptional academies, tall aqueducts, relaxing baths, and busy armouries. Besides these buildings is the great Town Watchers’ Chapter House, whose members help train our garrison so that no enemy agents can cause trouble. Everywhere throughout the city there are flowers covering the buildings and girls tenderly caring for them. Trees are numerous throughout the city and as one walks down a street they feel like they are walking through a forest. For the Amazons love nature and do not wish to be parted from it, even in their large metropolis. Then there is the Queen's Palace in the exact center with a plaza in front which has a tall marble pillar topped by a statue of General Xeno the Mighty is raising her chakram in victory. She has done much to restore the Queendom’s strength and the Queen wished to honour her.
As one approaches the palace, they will see the two largest trees of the city which flank the ascending staircase. You would be lead through large polished wooden doors by Agèma women warriors with their bright steel and long lush hair. At the end of the center hall is the thronos where the queen(s)/princess(es) will greet her guests. "No one can deny that Themiskyra is one of the most magnificent cities in the world! Don’t you agree?" she will most likely say.

We the newly formed kingdom of Ptolemy would like to ask you for the Great Amazonian to trade with us (with the usual grain full of ship to help feed your

troops in campaigns so that they can fight in a decent stomach)

Originally Posted by Spartan999

We, the newly formed Kingdom of Ptolemy, would like to ask you, the Great Amazonians, to trade with us. We offer the usual ships full of grain to help feed your troops in their campaigns so that they can fight well.

"Hmm..."

The Supreme Queen is too busy with administrative duties to meet with foreigners right now. Korinna, Commandress of the Agèma, meets with the Egyptian ambassador at the public baths instead. After an intense wrestling match it felt good to relax. She swims to the edge and eyes the diplomat with a steely gaze over a dancing candle-flame. “We have heard of your revolution and are pleased that many Muslims were slaughtered. May Isis bless you!" she says. "No doubt your nation must recover, and seeking new trade partners to increase wealth is certainly wise. The Queendom will agree to the establishment of trade lanes between us. In exchange for your grain, which is most appreciated, we will ship you a great quantity of silver mined by our burly men-slaves. I’m sure this is satisfactory.”

Korinna walks out of the bath and wraps a towel about herself before reclining on a couch. “On to another matter… our previous deal with the land of Egypt shall be cancelled. The Ptolemaics are obviously not interested in starting hostilities with us, which is good. You may build fleets in the Eastern Mediterranean if you wish. I daresay that Amazonia’s relations towards Egypt have improved dramatically!” Some boy-slaves arrive, offering wine and biscuits to all present.

Oh supreme Queen, we enter your glorious nation in offer of a gift. After I lay down the smack on Venice, we will invade the Cyprus islands and give it to you, so when I attack the Cyprus islands

don't take it as hostile move on my part. You do not have to accept this and we will back up, but you can see that this is all mostly a positive (I am doing the same for Helius by

invading Greece and giving some land to him, cause you know his AFK).

Still a bit distrustful of the Ptolemaics, Queen Hippolyta of Amazonia gives a short and terse response to the Egyptian: "We will be watching and waiting..."

A slightly aging woman, covered from head to two in black garment, with only a few white stripes and a hole for her hands and face, she hails the Guards. "I am Maiden O'Connell, I wish to see your queen." As she is led to the palace she admires the grand statues, fountains and architecture. When the door opens she walks in and kneels on one knee and tips her head and says, “May you live a long and pleasurable life.”
"I wish to talk to the queen on some very important Issues." She says.
"I come here today, to tell you of my people, in this world you will find many Patriachial Societies, you surely cannot hate all those who are men, yes, many may be oppressors but some are not. My nation has been forced out of their homes and ancesteral homes. Many yearn for our ancient homeland, we are simply taking refugee in our sacred land. I myself lead a nunnery where girls are taught of our faith. We are as much as a pious nation as you are. What if you were forced to live in a hostile environment, all your people away from their homes. All we ask is, as we expand and build up our forces to take back our homeland, What I am hear to ask is, will you sign a Non-aggression pact, stating you will not attack my people and neither will we, as we know an alliance with a Patriarchal society is deeply condemned and much more as it is the leader of a separate faith. Our claims fall short of your boarders so you have room the breath. We do not want any trouble while in these lands. Please consider this..." She bows her head and gives her a scroll that explains it out fully and in an official Dialect.

OOC: BTW, My nation is the Papal States.

Originally Posted by Librarian

A slightly aging woman, covered from head to two in black garment, with only a few white stripes and a hole for her hands and face, she hails the Guards. "I am Maiden O'Connell, I wish to see your queen.”

She is confronted by the Agèma, the Royal Guards of Themiskyra. They are tall and proud women wearing segmented armour of steel. Their helmets, with the red plumes and feathers, further increase their height. Their jewel-encrusted belts contain quivers of arrows, throwing axes, and short swords. Strapped to their backs are crescent-shaped shields with bosses, and slung over their shoulders are their powerful composite bows.

“Why do you cover yourself so?” Korinna, Commandress of the Agèma, asks the ambassador while taking off her helmet and shaking her blonde hair free. “There is nothing to be ashamed of. You should feel the wind in your hair and the sun-goddess’s rays on your skin.”

“She must come from a patriarchal society, my lady,” one of the guards says with a deep frown. “One that makes them wear such oppressive clothing.”

“Hmm… how sad. Nonetheless she will be given an audience with our Supreme Queen,” Korinna says while gesturing for O’Connell to be escorted to the Queen’s Palace.

Originally Posted by Librarian

As she is led to the palace she admires the grand statues, fountains and architecture. When the door opens she walks in and kneels on one knee and tips her head and says, “May you live a long and pleasurable life.”

Anótatos Basilissa (Supreme Queen) Hippolyta XXIII reclines on her thronos in an air of truly regal authority. A golden diadem with rubies shines brilliantly upon her dark hair. With one hand she twirls her golden scepter, and with the other she snaps her fingers. A servant comes forward and offers the nun a jar filled with a paste that eliminates wrinkles and the unholy effects of aging. Another servant comes to offer wine and biscuits.

“You may speak,” Hippolyta says sternly. She was informed of the Catholic nation that arose in Jerusalem to the south, and she is not happy about it. No Amazonian is.

Originally Posted by Librarian

"I wish to talk to the Queen on some very important Issues," she says. "I come here today to tell you of my people. In this world you will find many patriarchal societies, but surely you cannot hate all those who are men, yes? Many may be oppressors but some are not. My nation has been forced out of their ancestral homes. Many yearn for our ancient homeland, and we are simply taking refuge in our sacred land. I myself lead a nunnery where girls are taught of our faith. We are as much as a pious nation as you are. What if you were forced to live in a hostile environment, all your people away from their homes?”

“You believe in the wrong faith,” the Queen of Amazonia says with a great sigh. “Do you worship the Goddesses? Do you respect and tend to nature? Do you have sex? Or do you commit blasphemy by locking yourselves up in some buildings, praying to a male *she spits at the word* deity, and not partying?”
She drains a glass of wine to calm herself. “In answer to your first question: we hate men who are in positions of power. It screws with their minds, feeds their arrogance, and is dangerous for girls to be exposed to. The only men we like are those who know their place: beneath us.

To answer your second question: we Amazonians were living in a hostile environment, caught between Islam and Christianity. To survive we toughened up and showed no mercy in war. Now the time has come to rebuild our former glory!”

Hippolyta rises up from her throne and behold! she was girt in the trappings of war. Plated steel armour, highly decorated with engraved scenes of horsewomen trampling fallen men, was revealed as she swept back her blood red cape. All manner of daggers are strapped to her belt. Steel greaves cover her long and smooth legs.

She thrusts her scepter out at the nun. “If your Pope sent you here to ask for our sympathy and leniency towards his state, he and his men must be terrified of us! And rightfully so!” After a little pause the Queen tilts her head and laughs, “Muwhahaha!”

Originally Posted by Librarian

“All we ask is, as we expand and build up our forces to take back our homeland. What I am hear to ask is, will you sign a Non-aggression Pact stating you will not attack my people and neither will we? We know an alliance with a patriarchal society is deeply condemned and much more as it is the leader of a separate faith. Our claims fall short of your boarders so you have room to breathe. We do not want any trouble while in these lands. Please consider this..." She bows her head and gives her a scroll that explains it out fully and in an official dialect.

“What’s this?” one of the guards asks while seizing a different scroll from the nun. She unrolls it for her Queen, revealing a map titled “Claims of the Holy See.” What it showed did not please Hippolyta.

“Well… this is unacceptable. Your pope-a-dope wants the Levant, Syria, and Cyprus. All islands in the Eastern Mediterranean are in our sphere of influence and on our ‘Next Conquests’ list. You take Cyprus and Amazonia will declare war on you. Likewise, the coasts of Syria and all of Phoenicia are in our claims. Amazonia wishes to establish profitable trade and enjoy the goods of the world to please our senses. If your pope continues his…

You know what?” Hippolyta tosses the map on the floor. “Hump it! We’ll launch a Southern Campaign to get what we want. If armed Catholics stand in our way, we’ll slaughter them! Amazonia will not sign a non-aggression pact with the Definitely-not-holy See while it has these claims.

Servants! Bring me ink, pen, and parchment. I must write to my daughter to march east at once!”

“Yes, your majesty.” The boys bow and scurry away.

“You can leave now. Enjoy your gifts,” the Queen says to O’Connell.

EDIT: updated Diplomacy and Foreign Policy.

~1494~

Death of the Queen

During the winter of 1493–1494, Supreme Queen Hippolyta XXIII fell ill. The royal physicians determined that it would be a fatal illness. Rather than suffer a slow and agonizing death, Hippolyta ordered poison to be brought to her and announced that her reign has come to an end. The entire Royal Family gathered at the Queen’s Palace to say farewell. Melancholy music played and there was much weeping as the Amazonian Queen prepared for her journey to the heavenly Halls of the Goddesses. After taking her final bath, Hippolyta lays herself on the pyre and hugs her crying soul-mate, Marpe, one last time before drinking her vial of poison. The Queen went into a deep sleep and passed away. The High Priestess chanted a prayer for Nyx, Goddess of Death, to guide her soul to the Halls.

Torch-bearers came and lit the pyre, consuming the body in flames. Once the ash was cooled it was gathered into a highly decorated urn. It was carried in the hands of Penthesilea, daughter of the Hippolyta, since Marpe was too distraught. The funeral procession solemnly walked through the city of Themiskyra and out into the fields to the Royal Tomb. The urn was placed into a niche within a long wall bearing hundreds of niches with urns containing past Queens. Above this particular niche were these words carved into the stone:

“Here rests the remains of Anótatos Basilissa Hippolyta XXIII Eupatorea Sotira of the 10^th Dynasty, Restorer of Amazonian Might, Loving Mate, Caring Mother and Grandmother, and Loyal Devotee of the Goddesses. May she be blessed and held in the highest honour!”

Coronation of the new Queen

The next day was the coronation ceremony for Penthesilea and Antiope. On a balcony of the Queen’s Palace, facing the main plaza where thousands of Amazons have gathered, Penthesilea and Antiope swear an oath before them and the High Priestess that they would uphold the Constitution (and make changes if necessary) and fight to protect The Rights of Women and the Sacred Scrolls of Cybele.

Priestesses drape the royal silk robes upon them and then they sit in the two thrones (which were brought out for this special occasion). The High Priestess anoints both Penthesilea’s and Antiope’s hair with holy perfume oil. Then she places the golden diadem of the Queen Consorts upon Antiope’s head. Finally, the Priestess takes the majestic golden diadem of the Supreme Queen of Amazonia and crowns Penthesilea with it.

The rubies of it shine brilliantly in the sun’s rays as Supreme Queen Penthesilea IV rises, along with Queen Consort Antiope V. Musicians off to the side play the royal family theme. Together, the Amazon queens salute their subjects and state the Royal Family’s Motto: “War is Necessary; Freedom is Glorious; Knowledge is Power!”

The Amazons cheer and shout “May the Mother Goddess bless our new Queens!”

The Queendom of Amazonia has new faction leaders. Ambassadors from friendly foreign lands may come and acknowledge the new Supreme Queen, and her consort, and wish her well in her coming reign. They may also attend the after-coronation party to be held in the Awesome Temple of Cybele. Lots of fun.

EDIT: updated Royal Family section.

~1495~

Administration of the Queendom

Supreme Queen Penthesilea IV

As the mighty Queendom of Amazonia expands it is becoming increasingly difficult for one woman to rule on her own. Penthesilea realized this when she came to the thronos in 1494 upon her mother’s passing. One of her first acts as Supreme Queen is to divide her realm into provinces and to entrust them to loyal women talented in administration. Here follows a list of those provinces and their administrators:

Amazonia – Supreme Queen Penthesilea IV and Queen-consort Antiope V
Cicilia & Pamphylia – Administrator Harmathoe the Beautiful
Bithynia & Bosphorus – Administrator Aristomache the Cunning
Asia Minor – Administrator Aello the Devout
Phrygia & Lesbos – Administrator Xanthippe the Bold
Syria, Phoenicia, & Cyprus – Administrator Tecmessa the Harsh

The following provinces will soon be established as well:

Central Anatolia
Caucasus Mountains
Maeotis Lands
Greater Armenia
Northern Mesopotamia
Southern Mesopotamia
Thrace (which the Bosphorus will be made part of)

Map of Amazonian Provinces

We're a matriarchy now. Doge Kirilion II is gone in the American expedition while his wife, Queen Diana, takes care of our glorious country (with rights for every gender )!
Would you change your relations towards us now?

Lenin, that is still a Patriarchal Society, your Doge is still in rule, if it truly was, the queen would be there (in the expedition)? Plus they did not ally with Gandhara because they just Allied with Patriarchal societies. I don't think this changes it.

LoC.
Your publication interferes with our claims, see the message I sent you or if you ignore this I will state it on the thread.

(Remember, I both love you two, just I must stay true and act true to my nation.