Castille (cah-STEEL)
Government
Weak monarchy due to regional fracturing between houses Castille’s monarchy has long been in decline. The Halfling noble houses have grown far apart from their brethren who man their ships and plow their fields. Several powerful noble houses fight a factional war underneath the sleepy gaze of the country’s Queen who is kept busy with romantic distractions. However, this only works so well, as the monarch's whimsy is so unpredictable as to just as often harm a house in her favor as aid them.Culture
Heritage: Halfling Decadent decline of monarchyDecadent and indulgent aristocrats cling to ancient privileges while the pillars to support that very structure fall apart around them. A seafaring people
Castille has been known as the Kings of the Seas for centuries, often at the forefront of naval technologies.
Cultural Norms
Old nobility, Old expectationsThe aristocracy of Castille may be shrinking and the stability of its politics uncertain, but the nobility expect every nod of respect to their station. The harbor towns are a mixture of naval base, trade port, and vibrant city. While the aristocracy may be at odds, the people of each city tend to stand by their own.
Military
Castille has a robust and well-funded navy that patrols its waters for pirates and protects merchant ships that want to trade with the nation. On land, roads are protected by patrols, and banditry is rare. A strong standing army and navy have put down several bouts of unrest in recent years, but is also growing tired of flipping back and forth between the control of Houses based on the whimsy of the QueenEconomy
While unstable, the economy always feeds on the massive trade of its ports which support large populations. Castille has always had booming trade with the nations of Ifrit and beyond. Their merchants sail all over Terranon to establish new trade agreements. Of particular interest have been the nations of Ifrit, where Castille has been facilitating their trade interests to acquire resources and knowledge to boost their Eletech industry that is primarily focused on naval technologies. Over the past few years, trade with major trading partner Vodacce has been strained, with far more pirates in the waters.Primary Deities
Lucetius, God of Oceans & Commerce Castille is known for its focus on seafaring trade and a strong navy. Worship of the god of oceans is the most common church found along Castille’s harbor cities and towns where hardworking sailors come ashore. Peitho, Goddess of Love & Beauty Further inland, churches to the goddess of beauty are found in many small picturesque towns. But also many of the aristocracy pay homage to her to keep their estates grand, romantic, and blessed places of indulgence Tanith, Goddess of Torture & Depravity While not as openly worshiped, the influence of the god of depravity is widespread in Castille. Whether sailor or noble, both seek opportunities to sate their appetites when the chance arises.Holidays
Mast Day - An annual early summer festival that pays homage to Lucetius and asks for fair weather and safe travels for the nation’s sailorsThe brothel was empty of clients for the afternoon but it was still a flurry of activity as the courtesans prepared for the night. Some were staying for appointments, others were going out to the busy streets near the docks and taverns. A diversity of genders, bodies, and styles chatted together in the safety of Madame Minn’s sanctuary. “and I can’t wait to get out to the boardwalk, I found the perfect spot just down from that fancy restaurant Laura went to last month.” Estella says as she picks up a brush to apply some makeup. “You mean the one that poor boy spent his savings to take her to?” Vera asked, “Don’t use that cream, it’s really cloudy out so the sunset is going to be dull. Use this one, but then use this highlighter.” The half-elf smiled and switched. Vera always has the best makeup advice, Estella thought, reflecting on how scared she had been at first, despite always wanting to join the Courtesan’s Guild. A pretty face and a flirtatious personality had gotten her through to adulthood, but the array of skills the others had impressed her every day. And they always shared. “Yes, that one!” She replied now that she had the right brush. “I always wanted to go to glamorous parties…I mean, I know that’s not how it always is, but it must be fun when you get to, right?” A few of the others exchange a look before an older gnome neatly trimming their facial hair turns from the mirror at their vanity, “Just for now, make sure they’re drunk if Madame can’t verify the party.” “Why?” Estella asks confused, “Jared, shouldn’t I try and avoid the rambunctious drunk nobles?” “A drunk noble is in town for a party without much thought as to what they’re doing. That’s a lot easier to deal with than a sober one.” They explain putting the scissors down and inspecting their beard. “A sober one might just be passing through and decide you should go back with them to their estate inland,” Vera explains as she looks over her bluish genasi complexion and dithers over which highlighter to use herself. “Isn’t that where the best parties are though!?” Estella asks with a mixture of confusion and disappointment. “I will never send any of you to one of those parties, ever.” A voice from the door calls in a serious tone. Madame Minn commanded an impressive amount of respect considering the halfling woman was only three feet tall. She took a quick puff of her pipe before continuing, “Inland, on their estates, nobles can do anything and they will do anything. Here, I can go slap a sailor around for being rough with you; a drunk noble we can desposit in an inn and he can wake up alone. Out in the country, I can’t do anything for you dear girl. Stay safe.” The others all nodded at the Madame’s words. Estella did too, but…she had always dreamed about these parties…
Maps
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Castille
Type
Geopolitical, Country
Capital
Demonym
Castillian
Government System
Oligarchy
Power Structure
Feudal state
Economic System
Market economy
Major Exports
Naval technology
Location
Related Traditions
Controlled Territories
Neighboring Nations