The Principality of Aber

Early History

The Principality of Aber sits on the southern coasts of the main continent of Vyshesk. It is neighbored by the Duchy of Alrighia to the West, the Invian Empire to the north, Abermia and the Principality of Sen to the East and the Endless Sea to the South.
Aber's recorded history starts as part of a larger realm, the Kingdom of Aberina. Once a great realm that stretched far, a cultural split developed early in the Phantom Age. In the south the coastal folk of what became the Principality became resentful of the control exerted by the far away mountain kings. Nobles of the south began to ignore the commands of the northern lords. Taxes where left uncollected. War loomed on the horizon, however the mountain kings turned on themselves, and in the south the nobles elected their own leader - the Prince. Word was sent to Abermo, the Capital of the Kingdom via a messenger bird - a black crow.
Now independent, the Principality grew in wealth, prestige and power. This drew the ire of the reformed realm of Abermia, who attempted to conquer the principality under the guise of divine right. The War of Aber began.
This growth was not unnoticed. Abermia attempted to assert control and the war began. Abermia had a strong military, however the economic power of Aber could not be understated. Through alliances, purchased loyalty and mercenary assistance, the war was settled with no gains for Abermia. The Principality had proven itself as a realm that could assert itself.

Government

Aber is ruled by the Prince, elected by the major nobles of the realm. The constitution of Aber is convoluted at best, but is best surmised as an elective monarchy. The principality is divided into five demesne, and upon the death of the Prince, an assembly is called to which each Demesne sends a Envoy to elect a new prince. While technically any landowning person of the Principality can become Prince, it has always been a Envoy that rises to the post of Prince.
The Prince rules for life, and generally does not become involved with the Demesne at a local level. He is an intermediary between local rulers; a figurehead and symbol more then an authoritarian. His mandate is accepted universally by the people, he stands as a symbol against unchecked tyranny - even though their right to rule is secured by the nobility.

Society

Society in Aber place great value in ones profession. Industriousness and contentiousness are key virtues, and the destitute and homeless are viewed with scorn. Great importance is placed on how once is dressed, and it is expected that one dresses to match ones station in life. A poor man dressing in formal gowns is a con man; a rich man dressing in tattered rags mad man.
Along with industry, the people of Aber place great value in devotion to family. Families are often large, and often share the same, large home. A strong emphasis on fair justice is also integral to the people. All tax paying peoples of Aber have a right to trial by peers in the Principality for any committed crime.

Current Events

It has been six years since the election of Prince Lionel Trenowyth of Inverleburie and his reign has been one of recession. Heavy taxation has been levied to build a great work in the capital, and word has spread far and wide that a major spy ring financed by the Duchy of Alrighia has been uncovered. Talk of war is widespread, but the nobility is far more preoccupied with the hedonistic focus on luxury and pleasure that is afforded in times of peace.

Nation Capital - Tetherton
Population - 1.2 million
Area Covered - 432 sq miles

Type

Geopolitical, Principality

Government System

Monarchy, Elective

Power Structure

Feudal state

Economic System

Traditional

Subsidiary Organizations

• Araclay County

Notable Members

• Count Araclay