The Kingdoms

The Five Faction Kingdoms are independent countries that have come together to form a loose alliance. Due to their coastal locations and general openness towards allies, these countries were the ones who stepped up to accept Ognoshu fleeing from the destruction of their homeland.

We have provided brief overviews of each of these Kingdoms to help you decide where your character came from and to hopefully spark character background ideas; you will not be required to stick rigidly to these details since different individuals may have different experiences in different areas of each country. Players may also visit these Kingdoms during certain mini-games and events, but they will not be our primary setting/explored more deeply at this time.

The Mountain Kingdom

• Capital City: Stonehearth — A city carved into the side of a mountain, known for its labyrinthine tunnels and elaborate stonework.
• Racial Demographics: Primarily Gnarled Ones; there are a few native human populations that prefer to stay near the coast and often do not venture into the mountains. A scattering of Ognoshu refugees chose this eastern territory, mainly working as miners or woodcutters.
• Terrain and Climate: Rugged, mountainous region featuring alpine forests, snowy peaks, and deep valleys. The weather can be harsh, particularly in winter.
• Economic Overview:
  • Exports: Minerals, furs, and timber
  • Imports: Grains, textiles, and spices
  • Special Economic Notes: Currently experiencing a spice shortage and will pay premium prices for it.
• Cultural Nuances: A stoic and hardworking people who value courage and resilience. Festivals often involve tests of strength and endurance, like mountain climbing competitions.
• Political Relations:
  • Hostility towards New Ognos: ⭐⭐⭐ (Neutral but wary)
  • Notable Alliances: Allied with neighboring highland tribes for mutual defense.
• Time Dilation Effects: Significant time dilation; nearly 18 years have passed since the Ognoshu had to flee Old Ognos.
• Magic and Technology Level: Low magic, but with a focus on earth and elemental magics for mining and defense. Advanced metallurgy and engineering are more prevalent.
• Religious/Spiritual Beliefs: Ancestor worship is prevalent, along with a belief in spirits that reside within the mountains and forests.
• Notable NPCs or Factions:
  • The Iron Council: A governing body made up of clan leaders.
  • Chief Engineer Brolin: A master of machinery and a key political figure.
• Special Regulations or Laws:
  • Mining permits are required and are strictly regulated.
  • Hunting seasons are enforced to maintain local wildlife populations.

Kingdom of Asteria

• Capital City: Solaris Harbor — A bustling port city filled with markets that sell exotic goods and citrus fruits. Known for its vibrant sunsets.
• Racial Demographics: Predominantly Volari with a significant minority of Valka who often take the forms of tropical birds or marine animals. A small community of Ognoshu refugees made it this far south; those that did have mainly been engaged in fishing and trade.
• Terrain and Climate: Subtropical archipelago with warm, sunny weather year-round. The islands feature sandy beaches, coral reefs, and dense rainforests.
• Economic Overview:
  • Exports: Citrus fruits, spices, tropical woods
  • Imports: Metals, textiles, grain
  • Special Economic Notes: Currently experiencing a shortage in grains and willing to pay extra for it.
• Cultural Nuances: Asterians are known for their elaborate festivals celebrating the sun and sea. Seafood and citrus-based dishes are culinary staples. A relaxed and laid-back attitude is a cultural norm.
• Political Relations:
  • Hostility towards New Ognos: ⭐⭐ (Generally welcoming but cautious)
  • Notable Alliances: Strong trading relationships with nearby maritime countries.
• Time Dilation Effects: Minor time dilation has occurred; approximately 2 years have passed since the Ognoshu had to flee Old Ognos.
• Magic and Technology Level: Moderate magic focused on elemental control, especially water and wind. Technology is mainly nautical, with advanced shipbuilding techniques.
• Religious/Spiritual Beliefs: Worship a Sun Goddess and Moon God, ceremonies often happen at dawn and dusk. Ancestor veneration is also common.
• Notable NPCs or Factions:
  • The Solaris Guild: A powerful merchants' guild in Solaris Harbor.
  • Queen Seraphina: A young, open-minded queen interested in diplomacy and trade.
• Special Regulations or Laws:
  • Fishing is regulated to preserve marine life.
  • Use of fire magic is restricted due to the risk of forest fires.