Kingdom of Ardechia
Overview
Infamous for its rejection of magic, industrialized cities, and its status as the self-proclaimed breadbasket of Arboria, Ardechia stands as the single most populous Human nation in the north. A realm defined by its steadfast adherence to the Church of the Mason and its dogma of progress through industry, Ardechia has carved out a unique identity within the northern realms. The kingdom's expansive heartlands are dotted with thriving towns and cities, their smokestacks rising against the sky as symbols of a burgeoning industrial power. Ruled by a feudal monarchy under the iron grip of Knyez Radoslav Dragutin, Ardechia is a land where tradition and innovation collide. The kingdom's vast population is both its greatest strength and its greatest burden, with the feudal levy system ensuring a massive, if sometimes poorly equipped, military force. Despite its reliance on old-world structures, Ardechia has embraced the future through its industrial endeavors, driven by the ingenuity of its people and the influence of Dwarven technology. Ardechia’s landscape is as varied as its people, from the fertile lowlands of the Heartlands, to the high, rugged foothills of the Valpine and Messial Mountains. The kingdom's geography plays a crucial role in its identity, with each region contributing to the overall strength and resilience of the realm. Yet, amid its industrial might and military prowess, Ardechia remains a deeply traditional society, where the old ways are both revered and challenged by the march of progress. Whether viewed as a beacon of progress or a bastion of conservatism, Ardechia remains a formidable force in Arboria, its influence felt far beyond its borders.
Government
The Monarchy
The Kingdom of Ardechia thrives under the firm yet intricate rule of a feudal monarchy, with the Knyez standing as the sovereign arbiter of the realm. His authority flows through the veins of the kingdom, descending through the noble hierarchy to the Voyvoda, each of whom governs a Voyvodina - a vital province that contributes to the grand mosaic of Ardechia. At the kingdom's heart lies Starigrad, a city steeped in history and tradition, nestled along the northern banks of the River Staya in the fertile Heartlands. This ancient and storied city serves as both the political and cultural fulcrum of Ardechia, pulsating with the energy of the realm's noble lineage and the enduring legacy of its people. Ardechia's seven Voyvodine, each with its own unique governance and character, are united under the dominion of the Knyez. While the royal court in Starigrad issues the laws that bind the kingdom together, the governance of each Voyvodina is colored by its own customs, traditions, and edicts. This decentralized approach allows each province to maintain a degree of autonomy, striking a delicate balance between loyalty to the throne and the preservation of local sovereignty. In the grand halls of Starigrad, where the Knyez's royal court convenes, the complexities of feudal allegiance and provincial autonomy come to life. Here, the Voyvodas gather, each representing their people and safeguarding their lands, to counsel the Knyez and contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of Ardechia.Royal Court
The Royal Court of the Knyez is the heart of Ardechia's governance, where the most powerful voices of the realm converge to shape its destiny. This esteemed council is composed of the three major vassals - each a Voyvoda of significant provinces - alongside the head of the church, whose spiritual authority extends across the land. Also seated at the table are the heads of the influential merchant and industrial guilds, representing the economic pulse of the kingdom. Within these hallowed halls, the delicate dance of power and influence plays out. The Knyez, though the ultimate sovereign, is acutely aware of the importance of these advisors. Each holds sway over vital aspects of the kingdom, from the military might of the Voyvodas to the spiritual guidance of the church, and the economic prosperity driven by the guilds. Together, they form a formidable coalition, whose collective counsel the Knyez must weigh carefully. Though the Knyez possesses the authority to enact laws and issue decrees, the wisdom of governance lies in collaboration. He must navigate the interests and ambitions of his court, for to act against them too often or too recklessly would be to risk fracturing the unity of the realm. In this intricate web of power, the Knyez balances his will against the advice and demands of his court, ensuring that Ardechia remains strong, prosperous, and united.
Ruling Dynasty
The current Knyez of Ardechia is Radoslav Dragutin, a ruler of only 31 years, who governs with a blend of youthful vigor and seasoned authority. He is married to Jelena, a graceful young woman of 22, and together they have a single son, Bogdan, who is just 5 years old. The continuation of the Dragutin lineage through Bogdan ensures the future stability of the kingdom, a priority for the ambitious Knyez. Radoslav ascended to the throne nine years ago, following the death of his father, Knyez Boromir III, a leader remembered for his relentless pursuit of a unified and centralized Ardechia. Boromir’s reign was marked by a brutal conflict against a coalition of rebellious vassals and nobles who sought to depose him. Though Boromir ultimately lost his life in this struggle, his efforts were not in vain. Radoslav, alongside his uncle Mislav and the loyalist forces of the crown, brought the war to a decisive end, further consolidating the kingdom's power. As a result of this conflict, the power of the rebellious nobles was shattered. Their lands, once independent and only nominally loyal to the crown, were absorbed into the realm, and their titles extinguished. The number of Voyvodas, powerful provincial rulers, was reduced from 11 to 6, centralizing authority firmly within the hands of the crown. In nearly a decade of rule, Knyez Radoslav has proven himself a formidable and effective leader. He governs with an iron grip, balancing ruthless efficiency with fairness and a keen sense of propriety. His leadership commands the unwavering loyalty of his remaining Voyvodas, and he has become a figure of hope for his people. Radoslav is also a man of pride and spectacle, known for hosting grand tournaments and military parades, where he takes great pleasure in showcasing Ardechia's latest military advancements. Proud and confident, Radoslav is a ruler who relishes in the glory of his kingdom and his achievements.Geography
Eastern Heartlands
At the heart of Ardechia lies the vast and fertile lowlands known as the Ardecha Polya, or "Red Fields", as part of the greater Heartlands region. This region forms the agricultural core of the kingdom, characterized by its sprawling fields and pastures that stretch as far as the eye can see. The Ardecha Polya is the lifeblood of Ardechia, where farming villages are strung together along well-trodden roads, creating a chain of communities that support the kingdom's sustenance. Larger towns and cities are strategically positioned along major trade routes and rivers, serving as bustling hubs of commerce and cultural exchange.
Vapline & Messial Foothills
Encircling the lowlands, the Valpine and Messial Mountain ranges rise to the south-west and south-east, their foothills forming a rugged and picturesque landscape. These hills are densely forested, offering a sharp contrast to the open plains of the Heartlands. Numerous valleys carve their way out of these hills, gradually widening into the fertile lands below. The hillside and hilltop towns that dot these regions have developed unique subcultures, shaped by the challenges and isolation of their elevated terrain. These communities, though part of the broader Ardechian tapestry, possess a distinct character, reflecting the resilience and independence of their inhabitants.Pohorye
To the north, closer to the coast, lies the region of Pohorye, where the landscape is dominated by high hills, plateaus, and small mountains. These hills, fewer in number but grand in scale, are crowned with rocky peaks and dense forests. The region is sparsely populated, with settlements nestled in the valleys and on the plateaus. Pohorye is a place where nature's majesty is on full display, and where the people live in harmony with the land, maintaining a quiet and secluded existence.
Diynar Mountains
The Diynar Mountains, though not towering, serve as a natural shield for Ardechia, protecting it from the harsh northern climate of Kyrus. The southern slopes of the Diynars, within Ardechian territory, enjoy a relatively temperate climate, with abundant rainfall and lush vegetation. In contrast, the northern slopes, lying within Kyrus’s borders, are colder and harsher, with taiga forests clinging to the rocky terrain. The Diynar Mountains are formidable, with few passes, making them a strategic defensive barrier for both realms.Bogland
Located on the eastern fringes of the Ardechian Heartlands, the Bogland is a swampy and mist-shrouded region that contrasts sharply with the fertile plains. Fed by the rivers Staya and Sanya, the Bogland is a cold, damp area where the land is perpetually saturated, and the air is thick with mist. The region is sparsely populated, with small, isolated communities eking out a living in the challenging environment. The Bogland is often viewed with superstition and fear, as its dark, murky waters and dense fogs have given rise to many tales of haunted places and mysterious creatures that lurk in the shadows.
People & Culture
The Ards:
Overview
The native Humans of Ardechia are officially known as Ardechians, but more commonly, they are referred to as "the Ards", while the Elves of the southern realms call them "Ardlings". Their name is rooted in the blood-soaked history of their ancestors, who conquered these lands from the native Feynarin during The Great Migrations. The word "Ardech" means "red", symbolizing their identity as "the red ones". Ardechians belong to the Slaya culture group of Humanity, a name derived from their early history, with "Slaya" often being thought a play on the word "Slayer". The people of Ardechia are simple folk, with the majority living just above the poverty line in both rural and urban areas. They are traditionalists, holding fast to time-tested customs and are often wary of change. Superstitious and deeply pious, the Church of the Mason plays a significant role in uniting the people and wields considerable influence over their lives. The peasantry generally supports the advancements made by the current Knyez and his father, believing that their efforts to build a stronger state have benefitted the common man. With the loyalty of the people and his vassals secured, only a fool would openly oppose the crown. However, the common folk remain suspicious of Ardechia's endeavors in industrialization, though both the Knyez and the Church assure them that they are on the right path.Plainers
The Plainers are the lowlander sub-culture of Ardechians who reside in the fertile valleys of Ardechia. They constitute half of the kingdom's population. Plainers are stereotypically seen as rowdy, disorderly, and often rude and self-entitled, with a deep suspicion of outsiders.Hillers
The Hillers are the highlander sub-culture of Ardechians who inhabit the hilly regions of the kingdom, making up a third of Ardechia's population. Hillers typically consider themselves superior to the lowlanders, being more conservative, orderly, and possessing inflated egos. However, they are known for understanding manners and hospitality.Swampers
The Swampers are a minority sub-culture of Ardechia, inhabiting the Bogland. They account for about one-sixth of the population. Swampers are known for being highly superstitious, backward in their ways, and rather dimwitted.The Elves:
The Feynarin in Ardechia have been an oppressed people since the fall of their own realm during the dawn of the 3rd world, when the Slaya were forced to invade during The Great Migrations. The majority of the Elves were exiled from Ardechia at that time, while the rest were either killed or enslaved. Those who remained have always been viewed with suspicion and outright hatred by the Human settlers, who harbor a deep-rooted animosity towards Elves and their use of magic. Today, very few Elves remain in Ardechia, serving their overlords. With time, many managed to escape. These escaped Elves, along with exiles and foreign volunteers, have formed a resistance movement operating from the deep, uncharted forests of the kingdom. They prey upon the realm from the shadows, but to the authorities, these rebels and saboteurs are little more than an annoyance - petty bandits, powerless to achieve anything of note for over a thousand years.The Dwarves:
The Messawi who have come to settle in Ardechia have always been viewed favorably, especially by the Church of the Mason. Dwarven immigrants in Ardechian cities have been a boon to manufacturing and have consistently been shown favor by local authorities. In return, the Dwarves have introduced the Humans to many of their innovations, such as steam power, water pumps, the lightbulb, automated gates, elevators, and more. Thanks to the Dwarves and their contributions, Ardechia has begun the slow process of industrialization.Religion
The Kingdom of Ardechia is steadfastly devoted to the Church of the Mason, also known as the Masonite cult, an industrialist branch of the broader faith of the Divine Flame. The Church of the Mason champions the ideals of progress and self-reliance. It has declared all forms of magic as heresy, relentlessly persecuting those who dare to practice it. The Church preaches that true strength and ingenuity come from one's own hands, not from the "trickery" of magic, which they believe led to the downfall of Elvenkind, "betrayed by their own gods" that caused the Cataclysm at the close of the Second World.
Military
Doctrine
The Kingdom of Ardechia stands as one of the largest and most populous realms in Arboria. With a firm belief in the principle that might makes right, Ardechia prioritizes quantity over quality in its military strategy. The kingdom heavily relies on its vast feudal levy system when raising an army, drawing from its immense population. However, this reliance on sheer numbers comes with a significant drawback: many levies are poorly equipped, often outfitted with second-hand gear, while higher-quality arms and armor are reserved for the kingdom's regular troops.
Specialties
Ardechia's military prowess is most evident in its mastery of artillery. With the advent of industrialization and the assistance of their Messawi allies, Ardechia has developed an impressive array of advanced artillery pieces. Among these are the mighty Siege Bombard, Mortars, Organ Cannons, Rocket Artillery, and Volley Guns. These formidable weapons are employed to soften or even devastate enemy forces before they can engage in close combat. In addition to its artillery, Ardechia fields mechanical behemoths known as Steam Tanks, or Landships. These armored wagons are slow and clumsy, but are equipped with heavy weaponry, capable of withstanding and delivering considerable damage on the battlefield.
Navy
Ardechia maintains a modest navy, primarily composed of slim ships designed to patrol its two largest rivers, the Bela and Staya. The kingdom's deepwater fleet, however, is notably underdeveloped. Ardechia has shown little interest in expanding its naval capabilities, choosing instead to focus its resources on maintaining land supremacy.Air
Ardechia has ventured into the skies with a modest fleet of airships, slow-moving but heavily armored vessels that project the kingdom's power from above. In addition to these airships, Ardechia boasts a competent anti-air defense network. Volley Guns are deployed to deter organic aerial threats, while heavier anti-aircraft guns are used to counter the faster but lightly armoured airships of its main rivals.
Type
Geopolitical, Kingdom
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