Six Freedoms of Thorn

The Domain of Thorn initially began following many of the laws of Brevoy but over time found that such beaurocracy was not suitable for a frontier land. The old laws were reformed in favour of a code of justice known as the Six Freedoms of Thorn. The Freedoms were heavilly based on the River Freedoms practised in the other River Kingdoms. They are normally ranked in ascending order of importance; thus free speech is considered more important than freedom from slavery, for example.

Slavery is an Abomination A slave that escapes to Thorn is considered truly free. Many slaves make their way to the Domain annually and fiercely defend their new-found freedoms. This freedom does not prohibit the practice of bondsmanry of those found guilty of crimes within the Domain.Say What You Will, I Live Free This is the freedom of speech (and not to be confused with freedom from the consequences of your words). Criticism of government is common in the Domain, and the Council finds if they are lenient with loose tongues they are likely to live longer.

Oathbreakers Die Making an oath is a huge deal for the people of the Thorn and this freedom grants the people of the Domain leave to persecute anyone person that breaks an oath. Thornfolk who take on oaths usually keep them, or die trying. This freedom can have some constricting side effects on traders and businessmen, who can be loath to make strict commitments or promises but ensures the honesty of trade within the Domain.

Walk Any Road, Float Any River This freedom prevents individual leaders in Thorn from blocking travel over land and water, including charging tolls for passage. This only applies to citizens of Thorn.</li>

This Land is Our Home As a frontier settlement Thorn relies on its citizens living together in unison. Community spirit is valued above all else. Those that would disrupt the Domain are dealt with accordingly.</li></li></li>

Courts Are For Kings One of the most basic freedoms of Thorn, this one holds that all laws within the Domain are flexible as judged by the Council of Leaders, and that the Council may excercise their judgement of rule as they feel serves the best interests of the Domain. Visitors to Thorn - be they king or commoner - are bound by the (sometimes arbitrary) laws of the Domain. Consequently diplomacy with the Domain often relies on informed liaisons and intermediaries.</li></li></li>