Velhelsinese Empire

The Velhelsinese Empire is the largest nation in Andórë, boasting a population of 4.3 million inhabitants. It is a land where goblinoids and drow make up the majority of the population, while other species, including the occupied Beastfolk and Dragonborn settlements, account for a small percentage. The Empire extends from the northern coast of the Deep of Savawood to the Dragonspine mountain range and occupies all of the territory between the western tip of the Dragonspine Mountains and the coast.

Velhelsin Oreiner, the absolute monarch of the Velhelsinese Empire, rules over her subjects with an iron fist, and her word is law. The Empire's military, while a small portion of the overall population, is the second-largest standing military force in the world, with most of the infantry drawn from the goblinoid population. The Drow wizards provide expertise in subterfuge and decimate enemy ranks before those enemies know they are there.

Despite the curse that the pantheon of gods in Andórë has levied on the drow, religion still plays a role in the Empire. The official stance is one of grudging tolerance, although the worship of Xokone, the goddess of beauty, is forbidden due to her role in the transformation of the drow into their current form. The Empire's infrastructure is well-developed, and its citizens enjoy access to a wide range of goods and services.

The flag of the Velhelsinese Empire is a rectangular tricolour featuring three equal vertical stripes. The left stripe is purple, the middle stripe is gold, and the right stripe is crimson. The purple stripe represents the imperial power and majesty, the gold stripe symbolizes wealth and prosperity, while the crimson stripe stands for the blood spilled in the Empire's history.

The golden stripe features a black dragon in the center, which is the emblem of the imperial house. The dragon is depicted with its wings spread and its mouth open, ready to breathe fire. It represents the power and might of the empire and is a symbol of strength and dominance.

The flag is often flown alongside the imperial banner, which features the dragon emblem on a field of gold, as a symbol of the Emperor's authority and power.

Structure¶

As an absolute monarchy, the Velhelsinese Empire is ruled by the Empress Velhelsin alone. The Empress has ultimate authority and makes all decisions regarding the governance of the Empire. However, she is aided in her rule by a council of advisors, known as the Court of Shadows, who provide counsel and guidance on important matters of state. The Court of Shadows is made up of high-ranking officials and trusted advisors who are appointed by the Empress herself.

Beneath the Court of Shadows are the various administrative and bureaucratic agencies responsible for carrying out the day-to-day operations of the Empire. These agencies include the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Defense, and the Ministry of Magic, among others. Each ministry is headed by a Minister who is appointed by the Empress and who oversees the work of their respective department.

In addition to the administrative and bureaucratic structure, the Empire also has a well-established military hierarchy. The military is organized into various branches, including the Imperial Army, Imperial Navy, and Imperial Air Force. Each branch is led by a Marshal who is responsible for the training, equipping, and deployment of their troops. Beneath the Marshals are various commanders, officers, and enlisted personnel who serve in various capacities throughout the military.

Culture¶

The culture of the Velhelsinese Empire is heavily influenced by the dominant Goblinoid and Drow populations. Both races have a strong tradition of martial prowess and value strength and cunning. As a result, the Empire places a strong emphasis on military training and discipline.

The Empire is also heavily hierarchical, with a rigid social structure that determines a person's place in society based on their race, gender, and social status. The ruling class is made up of the Drow elite, who hold the most important positions in government and the military, while the Goblinoids form the backbone of the army and the labor force.

The Empire also values tradition and ritual, and many of its customs and ceremonies have been passed down for generations. These range from the formalized rituals of the military to the elaborate religious festivals that take place throughout the year.

In terms of the arts, the Empire is known for its music and dance, which draw on a mix of goblinoid and drow influences. The Empire is also famous for its craftsmanship, particularly in the fields of weapons and armor, and its artisans are highly sought after throughout Andórë.

Overall, the culture of the Velhelsinese Empire is one of discipline, hierarchy, and tradition, with a strong emphasis on martial prowess and craftsmanship.

Public Agenda¶

The public agenda of the Velhelsinese Empire is the expansion of its territory and the consolidation of power under the rule of Empress Velhelsin. The empire seeks to increase its influence and control over neighboring regions, and it may use force to achieve its goals. The Empire is also focused on maintaining a strong military and economy to support its growth and dominance in the region. However, the empire's agenda is often viewed with suspicion and fear by its neighbors due to its aggressive expansionist policies and its use of dark magic.

Assets¶

The Velhelsinese Empire's greatest assets are its vast population of Goblinoids and Drow, as well as their strong military and arcane capabilities. The empire's strategic location, with access to both the inland sea and the Dragonspine mountains, also gives it an advantage in trade and transportation. In addition, the empire's mastery of arcane magic and the use of the sun-blocking spells allows them to control the environment within their borders, providing a level of security and control that other nations do not possess. Finally, the empire's vast mineral resources, particularly the abundance of precious metals and gemstones, provide a significant source of wealth and power.

History¶

After losing her divine gifts from Xokone, Empress Velhelsin turned to other means to maintain her power and popularity. She focused on developing a strong propaganda machine, which emphasized her accomplishments and celebrated her as a great leader and savior of her people. The propaganda was disseminated throughout the empire via various mediums, including official state documents, books, songs, and art.

In addition to propaganda, Velhelsin also fostered a cult of personality, which elevated her to a near-divine status among her followers. She promoted herself as a figure of mythic proportions, a living symbol of the power and glory of the drow race. Her followers were taught to see her as a beacon of hope in a world of darkness and chaos.

To further cement her position, Velhelsin also established a system of patronage, where she personally supported and rewarded loyal followers. This system created a hierarchy of power and influence, where those closest to the Empress had the most to gain and the most to lose.

Finally, Velhelsin used her long life span to her advantage, cultivating a reputation as a wise and all-knowing leader. Her followers looked up to her as a source of guidance and inspiration, and her longevity only added to the mystique of her rule.

Demography and Population¶

4.3 million inhabitants. Roughly 67% Goblinoid, 27% Drow; 6% other species (including occupied Beastfolk and Dragonborn settlements).

The Velhelsinese Empire is dominated by Goblinoids, who make up about two-thirds of the population. Drow comprise another significant minority, constituting just over a quarter of the population. Other species, including occupied Beastfolk and Dragonborn settlements, account for the remaining 6%. The exact breakdown of other species is unknown, but they likely represent a diverse range of peoples, cultures, and backgrounds. The demographic makeup of the empire reflects the long history of conflict and conquest that has shaped the region, with various groups vying for power and influence over the centuries. The current political and social landscape of the empire is shaped by this complex and often fraught history, with tensions between different groups sometimes boiling over into violence or unrest.

Territories¶

The Empire extends from the northern coast of the The Deep of Savawood, an inland sea, to the Dragonspine mountain range, and occupies all of the territory between the the western tip of the Dragonspine mountains and the coast. The western side of the Empire is inhabited mostly by Drow while the eastern side is inhabited mostly by Goblinoids. The declared territory of the empire covers 973,000 square miles.

During the great war, the Velhelsinese forces made incursions across the Savawood Seaway where their goblinoid forces wrested control of several Oreinerian cities, causing the elves to abandon them. They also occupied several Beastfolk cities and declared them part of the Empire. The Empire did not relinquish any of these territories in the peace accord.

Of the 4.3 million citizens of the Empire, about 750,000 live in cities. The rest live in outlying areas or in the wilds as farmers, hunters, trappers and hermits, including a sizable number of nomadic goblinoid tribes.

Pronvinces¶

Afranhin

Shanashin, city of 12,000 people, primarily drow

Asherius

Asherius, city of 1,600 people, primarily drow

Bhia

Bhia, port city of 32,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Celhob, city of 1,700 people, primarily goblinoid
Chox, city of 10,000 people, primarily goblinoid

Chiafzia

Brat, city of 1,800 people, primarily goblinoid
Chiafzia, port city of 23,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Driordeek, city of 5,200 people, primarily goblinoid
Prott, city of 8,500 people, primarily goblinoid
Wruilkeh, city of 10,000 people, primarily goblinoid

Chox

Chox, city of 31,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Iszit, city of 6,500 people, primarily goblinoid

Diervaq

Diervaq, port city of 16,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Glamtoilm, city of 1,400 people, primarily goblinoid
Golin, city of 11,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Sroi, port city of 2,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Wroggal, city of 889 people, primarily goblinoid

Dresvinia

Mlin, occupied port city of 7,500 people, primarily beastfolk
Socheseche, occupied city of 1,100 people, primarily beastfolk
Torhesk, occupied city of 21,200 people, primarily beastfolk

Driord

Bres, city of 1,600 people, primarily goblinoid
Brid, city of 1,700 people, primarily goblinoid
Chrelen, occupied city of 1,600 people, primarily beastfolk
Crild, city of 1,600 people, primarily goblinoid
Dier, city of 7,400 people, primarily goblinoid
Driord, city of 9,200 people, primarily goblinoid
Kokitsa, occupied city of 2,000 people, primarily beaskfolk
Korovy, occupied port city of 2,700 people, primarily beastfolk

Eqee

Bratmelt, city of 1,600 people, primarily goblinoid
Eqee, city of 13,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Moft, city of 3,600 people, primarily goblinoid
Syrt, port city of 1,200 people, primarily goblinoid

Filren

Edradilaugroth, city of 4,500 people, primarily drow
Filren, city of 28,000 people, primarily drow

Froihiofz

Crilvelb, city of 9,200 people, primarily goblinoid
Froihiofz, city of 21,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Jashai, city of 1,900 people, primarily goblinoid
Nildai, city of 1,700 people, primarily goblinoid
Prean, city of 1,800 people, primarily goblinoid
Srurvelb, city of 9,300 people, primarily goblinoid
Stioszils, city of 1,600 people, primarily goblinoid

Gler

Eengai, port city of 1,500 people, primarily goblinoid
Gler, port city of 22,000 people, primarily goblinoid

Guharwendus

Vulnagos, occupied city of 1,600 people, primarily dragonborn

Hloidorga

Hloidorga, port city of 34,000 people, primarily drow
Lihauial, city of 2,300 people, primarily drow

Honk

Honk, city of 13,000 people, primarily goblinoid

Kat

Chiafboif, city of 16,00 people, primarily goblinoid
Drior, city of 13,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Eebgarvaq, port city of 8,900 people, primarily goblinoid
Vreaxi, city of 3,000 people, primarily goblinoid

Klilzofs

Bethinzitl, city of 1,500 people, primarily drow
Chetmorlythoz, city of 4,400 people, primarily drow
Givzie, city of 7,600 people, primarily goblinoid
Klearvaq, port city of 2,700 people, primarily goblinoid
Klilzofs, city of 17,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Natorisither, occupied city of 1,700 people, primarily dragonborn
Shandildid, city of 1,600 people, primarily drow
V'elhethei, port city of 2,600 people, primarily drow

Noragh

Noragh, capital of the empire, port city of 3,900 people, primarily drow
Tyuethoz, port city of 3,200 people, primarily drow

Olaghenead

Ferdorhena, city of 1,600 people, primarily drow
Fillorhuguall, city of 1,400 people, primarily drow
Olaghenead, city of 21,000 people, primarily drow
Rethanil, city of 4,000 people, primarily drow
Skaalhei, city of 9,500 people, primarily drow

Phiggan

Blix, port city of 2,700 people, primarily goblinoid
Croirdeek, city of 3,200 people, primarily goblinoid
Fruict, city of 1,800 people, primarily goblinoid
Glam, city of 1,900 people, primarily goblinoid
Honk, city of 3,100 people, primarily goblinoid
Phiggan, city of 14,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Sios, city of 3,200 people, primarily goblinoid
Tagielt, port city of 9,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Tragsee, city of 6,500 people, primarily goblinoid

Qeekork

Eebsil, city of 4,100 people, primarily goblinoid
Klilm, city of 1,200 people, primarily goblinoid
Qeekork, city of 15,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Inner Thelt, city of 1,700 people, primarily goblinoid
Outer Thelt, port city of 2,700 people, primarily goblinoid

Srefs

Dierdeek, city of 845, primarily goblinoid
Farzang, city of 4,200, primarily goblinoid
Froila, city of 3,400, primarily goblinoid
Gos, city of 12,000, primarily goblinoid
Sluyagh, city of 1,500, primarily goblinoid
Srefs, city of 38,000, primarily goblinoid

Unrinn

Aburh, city of 1,600 people, primarily drow
Aidurh, city of 5,100 people, primarily drow
Bonari, city of 13,00 people, primarily drow
Drang'enzitl, city of 2,100 people, primarily drow
Lahashewenat, city of 12,000 people, primarily drow
Orkalre, port city of 2,800 people, primarily drow
Thyuet, city of 9,600 people, primarily drow
Unrinn, city of 14,000 people, primarily drow

Wruil

Bryb, port city of 19,000 people, primarily goblinoid
Joimzois, city of 2,700 people, primarily goblinoid

Military¶

While a relatively small portion of the overall population (0.78%), the Velhelsinese military was the second largest standing military force in the world.

The military of the Velhelsinese Empire is divided into two major branches: the Imperial Army and the Imperial Navy. The Imperial Army is composed mostly of Goblinoid infantry, while the Imperial Navy is comprised of goblinoid sailors and drow mariners.

The Imperial Army is primarily composed of infantry and heavy cavalry, with a small number of archers and crossbowmen. The infantry is divided into various units, including pikemen, swordsmen, and halberdiers. The heavy cavalry is mainly composed of goblinoid knights, who ride on armored warhorses and use lances and swords to attack enemy forces.

The Imperial Navy is primarily composed of goblinoid and drow sailors, who man the empire's ships and engage in naval warfare. The navy includes warships, transport vessels, and merchant vessels, which are used for trade and commerce.

In addition to these regular military units, the empire also has specialized units that are used for specific purposes. For example, the empire has an elite group of Drow assassins who are trained in the art of stealth and sabotage. There are also Goblinoid siege engineers who specialize in building and operating siege weapons, such as trebuchets and battering rams.

Elite Troops¶

Black Vipers - This group of highly skilled archers are masters of stealth and are often deployed to take out enemy officers or to sabotage supply lines.
Ironclads - These heavily armored soldiers are trained in hand-to-hand combat and are the Empire's elite shock troops. They are typically deployed in the front lines of battles to break enemy formations and cause chaos.
Firebrands - This group of spellcasters specializes in fire magic and are able to create powerful explosions that can devastate enemy lines. They are often used to soften up enemy defenses before the main attack.
Nightstalkers - These drow scouts are trained in the art of infiltration and reconnaissance. They are able to move silently through enemy territory and gather intelligence without being detected.
Thunderbolts - This group of cavalry soldiers are known for their lightning-fast charges and devastating impact. They are often used to break through enemy lines and create chaos behind enemy lines.

Shadowdancers¶

The Shadowdancers are a legendary group of Drow spies and assassins who operate in secrecy, using their unique blend of magic and music to infiltrate and eliminate their targets. They are known for their exceptional skill in both combat and subterfuge, and are feared and respected throughout the Empire.

The Shadowdancers are trained from a young age in the art of swordplay, music, and magic. They learn to weave magic into their music, using it to enhance their physical abilities and to mesmerize their enemies. They are also adept at infiltration, using their skills in disguise and deception to blend in with their surroundings and gather information.

The Shadowdancers are organized into small, elite teams, each with a specific mission or objective. They work closely with the Empire's military and intelligence agencies, providing invaluable support in covert operations and espionage. They are often called upon to assassinate high-value targets or to gather sensitive information from enemy territory.

Despite their reputation as ruthless killers, the Shadowdancers are fiercely loyal to the Empire and its leaders. They see themselves as the guardians of the Empire's secrets and the protectors of its people. They are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the safety and security of the Empire, even if it means sacrificing their own lives in the process.

Empress's Personal Guard¶

The Empress's personal guard is a highly respected and elite unit within the empire's military. They are comprised of some of the most skilled and experienced soldiers and spellcasters in the army, and are responsible for protecting the Empress and her holdings at all times.

The personal guard is divided into two sections: the Black Guard and the White Guard. The Black Guard are responsible for the Empress's personal security and are known for their skill in hand-to-hand combat and the use of exotic weapons such as spiked chains and whips. They are also skilled in stealth and infiltration, and are often tasked with carrying out covert operations against the empire's enemies.

The White Guard, on the other hand, is responsible for the protection of the Empress's personal property. They are typically more heavily armored than the Black Guard and are known for their skill with shields and spears. The White Guard is also responsible for maintaining the security of the Empress's palace and other key government buildings.

Both the Black Guard and the White Guard are highly trained and disciplined, and undergo rigorous physical and magical training to prepare them for their duties. They are also highly loyal to the Empress and her family, and will stop at nothing to ensure their safety and well-being.

Technological Level¶

The Velhelsinese Empire has a relatively low level of technology compared to other nations in Andórë, but they are highly skilled in the use of magic. They have advanced knowledge in fields such as enchantment, divination, and necromancy, as well as the use of magical energy in their industry and infrastructure. The drow and goblinoids are skilled miners and metalworkers, and the Empire has a strong focus on utilizing their natural resources to fuel their economy. However, due to the heavy use of magic, their scientific and technological progress in non-magical fields has been slower than in other nations.

Religion¶

In the Velhelsinese Empire, religion is not officially endorsed by the government, and it is entirely up to the individual whether or not they practice any form of worship. While some citizens may choose to worship the gods of Andórë, others may follow their own personal beliefs or choose not to worship at all.

There are, however, some who still worship the God of Vengeance, Ubus, as they believe that his power can protect them from their enemies and bring retribution upon those who have wronged them. These worshippers often form small, secretive cults that meet in hidden locations to perform their rituals and offerings.

Due to the curse laid upon the drow by the pantheon of gods, the worship of Xokone, the goddess of beauty who transformed the elves into dark elves, is forbidden in the empire. Those who openly worship her or display her symbols risk being persecuted and punished by the authorities.

Foreign Relations¶

Before the Treaty of Marate: At War with Oreinerius, Thylalyr, and Rihia. No allies.

Laws¶

The legal code of the Velhelsinese Empire is known as the Edict of Shadows, and it is enforced by the Thaeryndin Uszthael. The Edict of Shadows is a strict and often brutal set of laws, designed to maintain order and enforce the will of the Emperor. It covers a wide range of criminal activities, from theft and assault to treason and sedition, and sets out severe punishments for those found guilty of breaking the law. The Edict of Shadows is enforced uniformly throughout the Empire, regardless of the race or social status of the accused, and there are few avenues for appeal or redress. In addition to criminal law, the Edict of Shadows also covers civil matters such as property rights and contractual disputes.

These laws are enforced by the Court of Shadows, the judicial body of the empire.

Some of the crimes listed in the Edict of Shadows include treason, rebellion, murder, theft, and magic-related crimes such as necromancy and the use of unauthorized spells. The punishments for these crimes range from fines and imprisonment to execution and banishment.

Treason and rebellion are considered the most serious crimes and are punished with death. Murder is punished by execution or imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the crime. Theft is punished by fines, imprisonment, or forced labor. Magic-related crimes carry severe punishments, including imprisonment and banishment.

In addition to these crimes, there are also laws that regulate commerce, trade, and the behavior of citizens. For example, merchants who cheat their customers or smuggle goods are subject to heavy fines and imprisonment. Citizens who engage in immoral behavior or disrupt the peace can be punished with fines, imprisonment, or lashings.

Agriculture & Industry¶

Due to the use of arcane magic to block out the sun, traditional agriculture in the Velhelsinese Empire is not very productive. However, the empire has developed alternative methods of agriculture that rely on underground or indoor growing techniques, such as hydroponics and mushroom farming. These methods require significant amounts of magic to maintain, but they provide a reliable source of food for the empire's population.

As for industry, the empire relies heavily on mining and metalworking. The goblinoids, who make up the majority of the empire's population, are skilled miners and metalworkers, and they use their talents to extract valuable resources from the earth and craft them into useful tools and weapons. Drow wizards also play a significant role in the empire's industry, using their arcane powers to enhance production and create magical items. The empire's reliance on magic, however, means that its industry is highly centralized and tightly controlled by the ruling class.

Trade & Transport¶

Trade and transport within the Velhelsinese Empire are primarily controlled by the ruling government. The Empire has a well-established network of roads, bridges, and tunnels that connect its major cities and towns. Due to the Empire's vast size, these transportation routes are vital to the movement of goods, people, and military forces.

The Empire has several major ports along its coastlines, which are used for importing and exporting goods. These ports are heavily guarded by the Imperial Navy, which ensures the safety of trade ships and the enforcement of the Empire's trade laws.

As for trade, the Empire is primarily self-sufficient in terms of production and manufacturing, with most goods being produced within its own borders.

The government also controls the issuance and distribution of the Empire's currency, which is widely used for trade and commerce within its borders.

Education¶

Education in the Velhelsinese Empire is primarily focused on military and arcane training. Children of both Goblinoid and Drow races are encouraged to join the military at a young age, and are given extensive training in combat and tactics. Those with aptitude for arcane magic are identified at a young age and sent to specialized academies where they receive training in magic and other related subjects.

While there is no formal education system outside of military and arcane training, there are often small schools and training centers within cities that provide basic literacy and numeracy skills. These schools are typically run by private individuals or organizations and are not part of any centralized system.

Infrastructure¶

The infrastructure of the Velhelsinese Empire is largely centered around the cities, which are designed to accommodate the large populations of both goblinoids and drow. The cities are characterized by tall, imposing buildings made of dark stone and metal, and are often surrounded by walls and defenses to keep out intruders.

One of the most impressive feats of infrastructure in the Empire is the use of arcane magic to create artificial night and darkness within the cities. This allows the drow to walk about freely without fear of the sun, and creates a unique atmosphere within the city. The magic also allows for the growth of crops and plants that would otherwise not thrive in the sunlight, making it possible for the Empire to sustain itself through agriculture.

Transportation within the Empire is mostly by foot or animal-drawn carts, although larger cities may have small networks of tunnels and rail systems powered by magic. The Empire also maintains a strong navy to protect its coastlines and waterways, and to project its military might across the oceans. The navy is primarily composed of goblinoid sailors and officers, and is feared by many of the neighboring nations.

In terms of communication infrastructure, the Empire relies heavily on couriers and messengers to deliver messages between cities and outposts. Magic is also employed to send messages over great distances, although this is typically reserved for high-ranking officials and emergencies.

We remember.¶

-3500 - 0¶

Type

Geopolitical, Empire

Alternative Names

The Shadow Empire

Demonym

Velhelsinian

Government System

Monarchy, Absolute

Power Structure

Unitary state

Economic System

Traditional

Currency

The official currency of the Velhelsinese Empire is the Velhelsinese gold coin, which is widely recognized and accepted throughout Andórë.

Major Exports

Very little.

Major Imports

As a result of the recent war and the subsequent economic sanctions, the Velhelsinese Empire has had to rely on its own resources for many goods. However, they still have a need for certain imports, such as luxury items like silk and spices, as well as raw materials like iron and lumber. They also import food products, such as grains and livestock, from the occupied Beastfolk and Dragonborn settlements within their borders.

Legislative Body

The Thaeryndin Uszthael, also known as the Imperial Senate, is composed of various political and social leaders appointed by the Empress of the Velhelsinese Empire. These leaders include representatives from each of the major drow noble houses, as well as high-ranking military officers, prominent merchants, and influential members of the clergy.

Each noble house is represented by its patriarch or matriarch, who holds a seat in the Senate and wields considerable influence over their house's interests and the Empire's policies. In addition to these leaders, there are also appointed officials who oversee specific areas of government, such as finance, commerce, and foreign affairs.

The Thaeryndin Uszthael serves as an advisory body to the Empress and is responsible for drafting and passing laws, as well as approving the annual budget and expenditures for the Empire. While the Empress has the final say in all matters, the Senate's recommendations carry significant weight and are rarely disregarded outright.

Judicial Body

The judicial body of the Velhelsinese Empire is known as the

Xun'kla'zalthan, or Court of Shadows. It is responsible for upholding the law and ensuring justice is served throughout the empire. The Court of Shadows is presided over by the Empress herself and a council of her most trusted advisers. The judges of the court are appointed by the Empress and are highly skilled in the areas of law and justice. They are responsible for interpreting the law, hearing cases, and passing judgment on those who break the law. The Court of Shadows also has a network of spies and informants throughout the empire to gather evidence and information to aid in their decisions.

Executive Body

Velhelsin's role as a tyrant involves absolute control over all aspects of the empire. She rules with an iron fist, and her word is law. She is known for her cruelty, and anyone who crosses her is punished severely. Velhelsin maintains her power through fear and intimidation, and her secret police, known as the Shadowguard, ensure that her enemies are swiftly dealt with.

As the sole executive, Velhelsin has complete authority over the military, government, and economy of the empire. She makes all major decisions herself, and her advisors serve only to carry out her will. Velhelsin is also responsible for the enforcement of the laws of the empire, and she has created a system of justice that is heavily biased in favor of the ruling class.

Despite her despotic rule, Velhelsin is revered by many of her people as a strong and capable leader who has brought order and stability to the empire. She is also seen as a champion of Drow supremacy, and many Drow throughout the empire view her as a hero. However, her rule has also caused great suffering for those who oppose her, and there are whispers of rebellion and revolution brewing beneath the surface of the empire.