Swenway

Realm of Swenway

High King: Bjan Hargelsen

Population: 245,000 / All five kingdoms

The name given to the four kingdoms of Balisheim, Gilbenmark, Lokemheim, and Seldenbaal, allied since 743, and the Kingdom of Gelemaar which joined in 773. The election of Swenway's high kings follows a tradition established when the four kingdoms joined. It was agreed that every council member of the four royal clans, each having one vote, would meet on the death of a high king to elect a new one from among their number. But it was never established whether the title would pass fairly from one royal clan to another, or whether the best man would be elected. Each succession has caused dissent among disappointed candidates. Gelemaar members are not eligible to be elected high king, as yet, but they are allowed to vote.

HIGH KINGS OF SWENWAY (Since 743)

743-770 Swen Ulandasen/Seldenbaal

770-804 Hurust Dangeld/Balisheim

804-807 Garin Hargelsen/Lokemheim

807- Bjan Hargelsen/Lokemheim

The current high king, Bjan Hargelsen, was elected in 807. The succession council following the death of Garin Hargelsen was the most hotly contended. Ivyrsen of Gilbenmark held that it was his clan's turn to take the dragon throne. Clan Hargelsen argued that Garin had not had a fair term. The Hargelsens were able to win the most votes. The Ivyrsens' resentment is strong and rebellion could occur at any time. The realm of Swenway is (theoretically) the richest and most powerful state in Ivinia, but it lacks unity. The high king has difficulty raising tributary men and funds. Each of the five kingdoms (and their settlements) are listed under its own heading.