The Tribunal

The Tribunal is the heart of the Xanthus empire. The Emperor Xanthus IV himself submits to their judgement in matters of law. Even though the Emperor makes the law, he is still bound to its word.

The Tribunal is both a council of law, and a way of life. To prevent the chance of bribery or neglect, all citizens of the Empire are Tribunal. When matters are brought before the court, nine people are chosen at random and given a mask and robe. The fate of the accused is then debated in open forum for all to see. Any found to break the trust of the people are executed.

In 241SA Xanthus I decreed that none in his empire would suffer tyrants or the weakness of the mind or body in his new empire. The Three Pillars of the Tribunal would be Education, Military, and Justice. Slavery became illegal, though any who had a debt greater than they were able to pay could voluntarily enter a contract of service. Though they would have to work under contract to repay their debt, they were not to be treated as lesser.

The Three Pillars:

All citizens, even those under contract of service, are educated as if they were a member of the Imperial court.

All citizens, even those under contract of service, must serve within the Imperial military.

All citizens, even those under contract of service, may be chosen by lottery to serve as Tribunal.

So successful is this system, that other kingdoms often send their criminals to be tried by the Tribunal, or be kept within the walls of the Sanguine's Gate Gaol.

Notable Laws of the Tribunal:

Minor-

Stealing- Value of items stolen can result in restitution or public amputation

Deceit against the character of another- Fine or removal of the offenders tongue

Improper trade- Restitution of double the agreed price, or a contract of service for no more than one year

Violation of the marital code- Public shaming of the accused and no less than half their total wealth to the accuser.

Violence within the city or inciting it- public shaming of the accused and restitution to the accuser.

Major-

Dereliction of duty within the military- 10 years within the Sanguine's Gate Gaol

The unlawful use of magic within the capital- Life within Sanguine's Gate Gaol

False witness within the Tribunal- Death

Murder within Tribunal lands- Death

Tyranny against man- Death