Ah, so you would know of the Sylvari, would you? The Syls (at least, according to them) were the first inhabitants of Antaron. Though their domain has been whittled away a bit by humanity, the Sylvarian Empire is easily still the largest nation on the face of the continent.

The term "empire" is quite fitting, as Sylvaria is actually composed of three seperate kingdoms - Alloryen in the north, Maelamin in the south, and Londelirenen, the central kingdom. Each kingdom is led by a king or queen (while most monarchs are male, females are not uncommon). The government itself is an interesting mix of monarchy and republic - each land, for instance, has a large say in its own government while still remaining subservient to imperial rule. The day to day governing of the empire falls to the High Council, which consists of representatives from each of the kingdoms. The councillors, who serve terms that usually last a few hundred years (the terms are voluntary), make laws, hear grievances, and the suchlike. Final word on all matters, however, rests with the Speaker.

The Quenda tel'gilrim (Speaker of the Stars), as the elven emperor is formally called, is perhaps the most powerful political figure in Antaron. While the nobility and the council certainly have a strong say, the Speaker can order armies to war, treaties to be signed, and cities to be built. Most elves, regardless of nationality or heritage, view the Speaker of the Stars with a respect that borders on reverence. The position of Speaker is heriditary, as one of the three kings always fills the role of Speaker, and is held for life. As with the monarchs of the three kingdoms, the position is not limited by gender, though there have only been two female Speakers in elven history. The major difference, however, is what happens if the Speaker does not have a direct heir. If this occurs in the case of a king or queen of any of the three lands, there is a large heirarchy in place that dictates where the crown will go. The office of Speaker, however, dictates that only a direct heir (child) of the Speaker may assume the office. In the event that a Speaker dies childless, the High Council is called upon to perform their most important duty - they alone have the authority to choose the new Speaker, which must be a sitting monarch from one of the other two lands. While this was designed to ensure that fresh blood would be introduced to the imperial crown, it naturally leads to a wealth of politicking and infighting.