Thalios
On the continent of Vastalia lays a vast and ancient nation known as Thalios. Located in the region known as Calysia, Thalios is one of the largest nations found in the world of Varda, and its coast stretches across the southern border of the Ethessian Sea. The country has a territory estimated at around 410,000 square miles and stretches inland to meet the Dwarven Realm of Val Garom in the central mountain range of northern Vastalia. Mostly located on the coast in a more temperate, dry summer climate, Thalios does enjoy some diversity to its geography; rolling hills and vast forests can be found further inland.
Despite the size of Thalios, it is relatively isolated on the world stage. Therrezia and The Shattered Kingdoms lay across the Ethessian Sea to the north, and the Free Cities of Xebellia and several smaller colonies can be found to its east, amongst the Calidian Islands. To the south is untamed wilderness that leads in to the jungles of Goldorisia. Nomadic tribes, dangerous creatures an the might of the Saurellian Empire has stifled effort for Thalios to encroach further inland, and the southern border is well protected from threats from the south.
The long coastline of Thalios and its enduring nature have historically made it a hub of trade and cultural exchange, and this has lasted until present day. Commerce from across the world of Varda has bolstered the country in recent years, and Thalios is fast becoming a world leader in wealth.
History and Formation
The region of Calysia has had civilizations that stretch back to time immemorial. Throughout the thousands of years of history, there have been many independent kingdoms and city-states around the Ethessian Sea, including the mighty Kingdom of Ethessia itself. Thalios came to power shortly after the Vastalian Dark Ages. A small nation a first, it gradually grew in size and influence as its neighbouring countries were unified under it. Be it conquest, diplomacy or marriage alliances, eventually it would come to pass they would all fall under the banner of Thalios.Religion
The dominant religion in Thalios is The Sun of Purity. The religion focuses on the purity and order of life, and is intertwined with the monarchy. The King or Queen of Thalios is seen as the earthly embodiment of the Sun of Purity, and is granted rulership of the land. The religion emphasise the seeking of knowledge and the light of the world, and has a strict morale code. Alongside this religion is the worship of The Ethessian Pantheon. Predating the Sun of Purity, the many Gods and Goddesses of Ethessia were worshipped all along the coast by smaller nations. As Thalios grew and absorbed these, the Sun of Purity was introduced, and has slowly replaced the older worship. The Ethessian Pantheon is still followed in Thalios, but more so in rural and isolated areas, away from the central influence of the countries government.Government Structure
A strong central monarchy makes up the backbone of Thalios' government, with a council made up of powerful individuals aiding in the running of the state. Ultimate power falls upon the monarch of the country, known as either the Sun-King or Sun-Queen depending on the heir. This is decided by divine mandate, with the High-Priests of the Sun of Purity having final say as to who inherits the throne. In recent years this has most commonly been a direct blood relation or child of the previous monarch, who uses their substantial power and time to both prepare their desired heir for the throne an to influence the High-Priests with their decision. To assist in ruling of the country, a High Council is also appointed. Made up of important and influential figures from across Thalios, they jointly can challenge the reigning King or Queen on any decisions made. Council members may be appointed from several organisations within Thalios, including:- Noble Houses: Local authority falls upon the noble houses spread across Thalios, who are responsible for maintaining order and collecting taxes. Those families who have gained substantial influence across Thalios are able to claim a seat within the High Council to assist in decisions of law and governance.
- High-Priests of the Sun of Purity: Ties to the Sun of Purity and the divine right of the King or Queen to rule is a central theme in governing Thalios, and the High-Priests enjoy several seats on the High Council. They are responsible for ensuring the state's policies align with the teachings of the Sun of Purity.
- Representatives of the Ethessian Pantheon: Despite its decline in the recent centuries, the Ethessian Pantheon is still worshipped in the older, more traditional regions of Thalios. A number of Ethessian Priests are still granted seats on the council, although the influence they have in advising the sovereign has dwindled.
- Guild Leaders and Merchants: Influential guild leaders, merchant representatives and trade leaders are key to Thalios' prosperity, and with this a large amount of seats is given over to such individuals.
Societal Structure
Thalios has a standard hierarchy of society. At the top is the Noble Houses that own the land that makes up Thalios. These Lords and Ladies will be responsible for collecting taxes, protection via a military and ensuring the law is followed by those living on their land. The vast majority of Thalios' population are commoners; those that work the land or provide manual labour. Many will be sworn to a specific Noble House, and will live their entire lives in their role, along with their descendants. Outside this feudal dynamic are Merchants and Religious members of the populace. Each has much more influence and autonomy away from the rulership of the noble elite, and may even have commoners sworn to their service. With the vast majority of Thalios' population being Human , it is not surprising that the ruling class is dominated by them. Dwarves and Halflings are also common to see amongst the higher echelons of society, but Elves are still treated with a sense of mistrust. Other species, such as Tieflings, Goblins, Orcs and Kobolds, are also found amongst the populace, but will seldom find themselves in a higher station than the standard commoner.
Type
Geopolitical, Country
Demonym
Thalians
Government System
Monarchy, Theocratic
Official State Religion
Location
Neighboring Nations
Humans - 65%
Dwarves - 14%
Halflings - 10%
Elves - 6%
Other - 5%
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