Hawkthorn Empire

The Hawkthorn Empire is a political and military power that rules over the largest area of the continent of Tamariel. Ruled by the current Empress, Valeria Hawkthorn IV, she governs with the aid of the Court of Nobles and with guidance from the Holy Church of Tamariel.

Symbol of the Empire
The Empire is identified by the emblem that displays an artistic image of the hawkthorn vine. The vine is seen as a holy symbol for it's curative properties, and the thorns are seen as a warning to not take it's gifts for granted.

Founding of the Hawkthorn Kingdom and the Early Centuries
Before the founding of the Empire, there was the Djinn Empire. These elemental beings subjugated the lands of the Tamariel to their cruel whims. They ended up pushing the mortals to the breaking point, and at this time, the Goblin Empire attacked the Djinn, pushing the largest bulk of their forces back to the elemental planes. During this time, a man rose up out of the slave pits and lead a revolt against the remaining Djinn. The man managed to defeat and drive off the last of the Djinn, and those that followed cried out for him to continue to lead them. Thus was the Hawkthorn Kingdom first formed.

The God Cleansing
At one point, all the gods that were worshiped on Tamariel became a point of contention between all the various clergy and followers. This would eventually lead to a series of conflicts that ended with the Empire's own gods, the Trinity, being the sole recognized deities in the land. Only worship of the Primal Spirits was not affected, since most that do so live in remote areas away from the centers of civilization, or are part of the tribes of the southern mountains.

Known Leaders of the Empire

 * Hawkthorn the 1st - The original founder of the Hawkthorn Kingdom. He took the name from the vine and used it as a symbol to lead the people of Tamariel against the Djinn.
 * Gaius Hawkthorn - King that lead during the war with the Elven Empire of the Blessed Mother.
 * Valeria Hawkthorn IV - Latest ruler of the Empire.