Eberras
The lands of Eberras have long been divided into many warring city-states. After centuries of war, many of these states became part of another or broke away from them. Now all the lands are part of the Great Merchant Republic of Callaern, but the many city-states continue to exist within the republic, each holding true to their own traditions and values.
The lands of the city-states are separated from the powerful Burbric Empire in the east by carefully watched hills, while the Ballaeran Range protects them from the Tarnish Desert Empire in the south. Behind these natural barriers, the merchant republic has been able to build up a trade empire that spans the entire western coast of the continent, with trade posts in all the major kingdoms. All this trade comes together in the city of Callaern, after which the republic is named, one of the few cities in the known world that can rival the greatness of Magnificent Mirrouse or the Jewel of Akamtis. Callaern sprawls on both sides of the Berras River, as well as the island in its estuary. Here is the seat of the Chief-Magistrate and his councils: the High Council of Magistrates, the Merchant Assembly, and the Grand Guild Council. These three bodies decide over everything that happens in Callaern.
Callaern was not always a republic; long ago, it was a kingdom under the Burbric Empire. When the empire's influence waned, and the kings of the city-states were granted more and more autonomy, they eventually declared themselves independent. Their wealth bought them mercenary armies larger than the entire Imperial forces combined, and as such, the empire was forced to give in. But over the years, the merchants became more and more powerful. They spread propaganda, comparing the monarchies to the empires of old. When support for the king was at an all-time low, the merchants claimed power and installed themselves at the head of their newly formed republic.
But all the wealth in the Republic of Callaern attracts corruption and unwanted visitors. The Hills of Calra and the Woods of Braaden have become home to monstrous creatures, twisted versions of humanoids. These beings have an insatiable hunger for gold and riches. In hidden-away places, they have their hoards, made up of piles of gold and artifacts. Some believe these creatures were once merchant-kings who grew so attached to their possessions that their souls were unable to part from them and they became bound to them. Others say they are only cautionary tales, teaching kids to be grateful for what they've got. Either way, most folk stay clear of the hills and forests.
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