Kingdom of Alderland
Nestled amidst the embrace of towering peaks, Alderland stands as a beacon of Eldonian Independence and prosperity that covers from the high mountain lakes of Laketarn Hollow to Lake Eldara south the Eldarendrelle. The seat of the Kingdom is the city-state of the same name, cradled within a narrow, fertile valley. The Kingdoms boundaries defined by the formidable Craghelm Mountains to the west and the majestic Reach mountain chain to its east. The landscape of the Kingdom of Alderland is a picturesque tapestry of lush meadows, dense forests, and the ever-present, tranquil waters of the lakes and rivers, which mirror the azure skies above on a calm day.
Structure
Jarl is a military term, that has evolved to become the sole ruler of the city of Alderland and later, the Kingdom as it's influence expanded. There is no formal nobility or monarhcal tradition. Instead the Kingdom of Alderland has been ruled by popular merchants, military generals, famous sell swords, generous admerials, that all earned popular favor. The pathway to becoming Jarl has been many but all must gain the support of the Arwyr and the Lyrfaen Spire.
The old fragments of the first city of Alderland call upon a founder who will return one day, a Magi of old, who commands fire and the heavens, and will return to his spire and rule Alderland again, making it a nation that will dominate all of Eldonia and Ithca.
Culture
Largely Gaelorian in culture, but Alderland has a mixture of Eldonian influences.
Demography and Population
Mostly Eldonian
Military
Alderland's Military Might
1. The Arwyr: The city guard of Alderland, known as the Arwyr, are not only the protectors of the city but also serve as a foundational military force in times of conflict. They are well-trained, disciplined, and versatile, capable of serving as both peacekeepers within the city and formidable soldiers on the battlefield. Their presence within the city provides a constant, stabilizing force and they are often the first to be mobilized in times of external threat.
2. The Cadwyn Arwyr: This elite guard, tasked with protecting the Lyrfaen Spire and its precious knowledge, also serves a crucial role in the military structure. Their specialized training and clandestine operations provide Alderland with a unique tactical advantage, utilizing intelligence and covert strategies to safeguard the kingdom.
3. The Standing Army: Alderland maintains a robust standing army, comprised of well-trained soldiers and skilled archers. The army is always in a state of readiness, prepared to defend the kingdom against external threats and to maintain its territorial integrity.
4. The Naval Force: Given its strategic location by the Lake Eldara and the Eldarendrelle River, Alderland has developed a potent naval force. The fleet, consisting of war galleys and trade vessels, ensures the security of the waterways and protects trade routes, crucial for the kingdom’s economy and military logistics.
5. The Fortifications: Alderland has invested heavily in fortifications, not only within the city but also along crucial points of the Eldarendrelle River and strategic mountain passes. Fort Solis and other fortifications along the river serve as both defensive structures and bases for military operations.
6. The Cavalry: Alderland boasts a formidable cavalry, known for their swift and impactful charges in battle. The horses, often bred in regions like Rhosyr, are well-trained and cared for, making them reliable in various terrains and conditions. The cavalry, clad in the sturdy armor crafted by Alderland’s skilled blacksmiths, often turns the tide in battles, being a symbol of Alderland’s military might and strategic prowess.
7. The Militia: In times of war, Alderland can call upon its citizens to form a militia. The men and women of the kingdom are no strangers to conflict and are willing to take up arms to defend their land, providing a substantial force that can support the standing army.
Religion
Mara and other verities of Pagan worship, such as Old Faith enclaves temples and cults of Wodyn and the Azrean faithful live side by side in Alderland, mostly peacefully.
Foreign Relations
Alderland's Foreign Relations
1. Free Republics: The relationship between Alderland and the Free Republics has opened notably in the past dozen years, transitioning from mere distant trading partners to a closer alliance. This shift was notably symbolized through the marital union of the Jarl to a noblewoman from the Free Republics. This alliance has not only strengthened trade relations but also established a diplomatic bridge that has potential implications for future political and military collaborations, especially considering the Free Republics' own stance against the Aeternus Imperium.
2. The Aeternus Imperium: Alderland and the Aeternus Imperium have been in a cold war for decades, a silent battle of power and influence, particularly in the regions that lie between them. Despite the underlying tensions and historical skirmishes, a pragmatic approach has been maintained, allowing traders from the Imperium to engage in commerce within Alderland. This delicate balance of maintaining economic interactions while being military adversaries is in Alderland’s strategic interest as the wealthier and more powerful Imperium should ever sets its full might against Alderland, it may fall.
3. The Eifer: The relationship between Alderland and the Eifer is a complex, they are thought of as exotics and barabarians. Symbols of Alderland's past for both good and ill. Alderland's respectful treatment of The Hallow has garnered favor among the Eifer, yet the chasm between the settled civilization of Alderland and the nomadic traditions of the Eifer persists. While there is a semblance of understanding and occasional cooperation, the two societies often find themselves at odds due to their divergent lifestyles and values, making their alliance fragile. The ever present distrust of Imperial power projection to southern Eldonian is what unites them.
4. The Nordring Pact: Alderland has cautiously opted to remain outside of the Nordring Pact, maintaining its sovereignty and independent stance in the northern geopolitical landscape.
Type
Geopolitical, Kingdom
Capital
Leader
Leader Title
Head of State
Government System
Monarchy, Elective
Power Structure
Unitary state
Economic System
Market economy
Gazetteer
Laketarn Hollow:
Eirwen's Rest
Rhosyr
Dunhold
Gwyndara
Legislative Body
The King with his Council.
Judicial Body
Like most of Eldonia, Alderland is reliant on the Legal Guid of the Faire Dlí but even more so because Alderland, with its access to the Lyrfaen Spire is the origin of the tradition of the traveling justices and lawyer training.
Executive Body
The King and the Arwyr
Controlled Territories
Neighboring Nations
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