Overview
The Free States of Twisted Marsh is a flawed democratic society located in the southwestern plains and swamps of Bail. Landowners in Twist Marsh are eligible to participate in politics and elect leaders to manage the towns and represent the nation. However, due to the significant economic opportunities offered by the prominent ports in Twist Marsh, the Silver Phoenix often wields more voting power than many people recognize. The Free States of Twist Marsh has a longstanding and bitter rivalry with Aegis. The most pervasive factor in the states' voting halls is the politicians' deceptive nature.
Government Operation
The majority of the ruling power in the Free States of Twisted Marsh rests with the Senate. This Senate consists of seventy-nine members, all of whom are elected landowners with equal authority to pass laws and legislation in the Free States. The Senators reside in Nautilia Deep, where the Senate Hall is situated—a massive, round building crowned with an impressive blue dome.
Beneath the Senators are governors and other elected officials who manage the counties within the nation. These governors enforce the laws passed by the Senate nationwide and enact additional minor legislation that impacts their respective states. Elections for both the Senate and the governor positions occur every ten years. During these elections, each incumbent typically faces one or a few challengers. Campaigns usually involve hosting rallies and dinners where candidates deliver speeches outlining their plans for improving the nation. Public debates are regularly held as a way for politicians to express their differences and share their views, and they become more frequent in election years.
Election Day falls on the first of Snowdrift, and the results are counted throughout the month, with the final outcomes announced on New Year's Eve.
Senator: The leaders of The Free States of Twisted Marsh, these elected officials propose bills and laws, as well as vote on them in monthly Senate sessions.
Governor: Elected officials responsible for managing the finances of their state and enforcing the laws passed by the Senate.
Magister: Judges appointed by Governors who both act as the central justice system of The Twist Marsh.
Millitary
The army and navy of The Twist Marsh are each led by a single commander, selected by the Senate every five years. These leaders hold the titles of High General and High Admiral, making them the nation's highest military authorities. As a result, many officers in the Twist Marsh strive to demonstrate their qualifications for these prestigious positions.
The general enlisted forces are known as The Free States People's Army and Navy. Service members enlist for a term of five years, after which they have the option to re-enlist if they remain fit for duty. However, political corruption often leads to inadequate supplies for the army and navy, compelling both troops and officers to be resourceful in making do with what they have.
High General/High Admiral: The highest military authority in the Twist Marsh, elected every five years by the Senate.
Officer Corps: The officers who answer to the High General and High Admiral. They are responsible for organizing their forces and following the High Command's orders.
Swamp Rangers: An independent force consisting of elite troops who protect and monitor the swamps of The Twist Marsh. They answer directly to the people, making them an unoffical force.
The Free States People’s Army/Navy: The many enlisted men and women who protect the Twist Marsh. They are often underpaid and undersupplied, but are very tenacious.