Intergalactic Summit

I have been thinking about the Shathol'Syn ritual, and about how in a time when we have had several Emperors and Empresses in only a few years, that perhaps it might not be ideal.

The intent, as everyone knows, is so that the new Empress can consolidate her position, without being challenged by the Heirs, as they would similarly be consolidating their new positions.

However, as recent events show, there is the possibility of an Emperor or Empress being assassinated after only a short time in office.

And with several Heirs in the past being some of the Imperial Navy's more capable commanders, (I am thinking of Lord Arrach Sarum as an example), or other capable administrators or scholars, then, when there are many Emperors in few years, then a lot of the Empire's talents end up going through Shathol'Syn, when they could still be of use to the Empire. I am thinking here, of such things as losing capable Navy commanders, when the war against the Drifters has not yet resulted in their Reclaiming.

So, I am wondering if there might be an alternative.

Certainly, for lesser individuals than Heirs, there is the option of renouncing all titles and wealth, and living out their natural lifespan in quiet contemplation of the Scriptures.

Would that be suitable for an Heir, letting them live out their life in contemplation, unless recalled to service in times of the Empire's need ? I don't know.

But if it was, then I, for one, would be willing to serve the Empire, and care for former Heirs living in quiet contemplation of Scripture.


That was my thought on this.

I am sure the Theology Council and the Empress herself will make the right decision for the Empire.

To me, the alleged logic of this given reason has always seemed a little weak. The Heirs after all will be interested in cultivating their own intelligent, driven and competent successors, who will ideally have been politicking, trading, commanding and generally honing their skills for a long time before the succession.

Certainly, during the interregnum and in the interval after the new emperor has been decided, the Heirs will have plenty of opportunity to counsel their successors and provide whatever input they can to help with all of this consolidation, as part of putting their affairs in order.

So really, if the ritual does ease and disrupt any obstacles to the new emperor's authority, the effect must surely be minor at best...

And meanwhile the empire has only increased its uncertainty, wasted its talent and compounded death with further death.

Still, it's not my place to tell Amarrians how to conduct their business. The whole Empire is built in traditions that seem irrational and counterproductive to my way of thinking, but I guess that's because I'm an ignorant heathen.

In our culture it was usual for a disgrace of a warrior for them to take their lives. Even good Caldari captains, disregarding their merits, were known to take their lives if honor demanded it.

What is more important, is that the Heirs agreed to the terms and they knew what they are going into. They shall commit it because their Honor would demand it.

There are things more valuable for humans than lives. Honorable Caldari and Amarr soldiers understand it. And what about you, readers?

Always keep your word and honor your promises.

But don't make stupid promises.

This ritual as a requirement for eligibility is a stupid promise.

If the Amarrian emperor turnover rate is to be considered, I think the Empire will start suffering some brain drain soon amongst its royal houses.

That's really all that needs to be said on this topic. They already decided, by the way.

This topic is out of place right now, it's for Theology Council and the Empress to decide after coronation is done (if they are pleased to do so).

You don't change "rules of the game" in the middle of "the game", no matter how great are current Heirs .
I think the lose of Lord Ardishapur is very, very sad thing (I was his supporter in succession trials), but I accept it as a Lord's will.
We should all do for other noble Heirs too.

The successful one should as well. I mean, really, the Empire was getting along just fine without a ruler, why muck with a good thing......