The United Principalities of Raskna
"There is a fire that burns within every person. If pressed, even the weakest flame can become an inferno of passion and desparation."South of the Forgotten North is the subcontinent known as Maksna, ruled over by the Princes of Raskna. Since these lands were first settled, they have been in constant danger from outside forces. The First built walls of wood and mud to close off the forces that sought to destroy their homes. These walls would be used until stone walls could be raised, protected with magic and the sacrifice of many. Yet this would barely be enough to hold back those that would despoil these lands. It was realized far too late that these walls could never contain the true despoilers of civilization. When the Pig-Orcs swept southwards from their island home, no amount of magic nor weapons could keep them at bay. Their coarse fur allowed them to amass during the winter, and their unholy fervor for violence forced them into frenzies, raiding villages far more often than their counterparts. When the Last King died in the chaos, the only way of life known for generations pershied upon the pyres with him. A group of Hags, opportunists, sought to fully corrupt the lands. They came before Efram, The First Prince, and made him a similiar offer that they gave his grandfathers father. Under the Unholy Sign was the pact struck, and under the full moon was the pact severed, leading to the painful decline of the Princes. The land was divided among the brothers, allowing for all to rule with as little interefereance from their equals as possible. These Principalities were further divided into smaller territories, ensuring that no Prince would get too powerful, and that the little folk would be safe for as long as possible. The Vampiric Nobility rule from their Grand Estates, while the lesser nobles oversee the lands that are gifted to them, governing locally.
Structure
The Princes maintain absolute authority over the lands, answering only to the other Princes. While they are meant to fully lead the people, the many years of immortality have corrupted their sense of duty, following only their own whims. However, in order to retain their ambitions and to ensure that none become too weak while persuing their goals a group of scholars has been appointed, speacialized in diplomacy and the early Laws of Vampirsm penned by the Brothers.
Each of the Princes have many that serve under them. The Mayors, though the Princes may call them by different names, are given large amounts of opportunities by the Princes. They act as land owners, judges, and protectors of what is given to them. The Laws of Vamprism dictate that there must be both Mortal and Vampiric rulers over the land, equal under the eyes of the Princes. Despite the emphasis put on this, this is one of the laws that is most commonly disregarded.
Culture
The people are pragmatic survivors, and their culture deeply reflects that. They gather for large feasts, opening their homes to one another with communal potlucks. Songs are sung alongside simple drums, or by voice alone, retelling the tales of overcoming odds. Victories against powerful foes, storms that threatened the destruction of all, and of tyrants in the ancient days are common themes. Each song, meal shared, and the simplicity of their clothing has a strong emphasis on unity.
Public Agenda
They are currently laying low, content to stay and build their own strength. They try to remain neutral with all neighbors, and keep an air of secrecy. Each of the Princes, through inexplicable means, has an urge to discover ancient artifacts that are hidden within the ruins within and outside the lands. Something in their blood calls to these artifacts, though none know what they look like, or if they exist at all.
Seize the Night
Type
Geopolitical, Principality
Alternative Names
The Realm of Death, The Land of the Vampires
Demonym
Raski
Leader
Founders
Head of State
Location
Controlled Territories
Notable Members
Comments