Shattered Empire

Althirea is a land of adventurers and swords, villages and cities, forests, plains, and mountains, chaos and wars...   Commoners tend the fields or find work in the cities. Warriors fight battles and guard settlements. The wise use magic to empower their weapons and strike their foes.   For three hundred years, the Kingdom united the realm of Althirea under it's banner, and brought a time of peace and prosperity, which reached a peak with the reign of King Klarius. With the love of the people on his side, he reformed the Kingdom, giving himself the title of emperor and taking more direct control over each citystate. But that time came to an end. With the death of Emperor Klarius, the land has been left divided.   Two main sides claim their right to the throne. The first is that of the "Royal" Empire, which supports the old emperor's son, Klarius II. The other is that of the "Mighty" Empire, which supports former General Burchard.   But these are not the only factions in the realm. Many towns and villages have denied the Empire entirely, and seek independence from their requests for taxes and aid in a brewing war. Then there's the solitary Vikaari race, known for their swordsmens' prowess, who have taken advantage of the instability to strip its ties to the Empire, as well.   While the realm faces inner strife, it's largest threat lies past the mountains to the north, where people seldom travel. Legend tells of monsters or dark warriors inhabiting these unknown lands, but the full truth of what lies there remains a mystery.