[OOC] The New World: Fate of Albion II (Remade)

[Cyclone]

In the dead of night there were fifteen falling stars that streaked across the sky. The lands to the east saw the lights above the sea, and those here in Albion watched as they streaked over the mountains and across the fair plains. Far to the west, the lights were even spotted by those brave adventurers that tried their fortunes at settling the world.

Never in living memory had such a shower been seen; the superstitious pointed to the sky and foretold impending doom and death. The wise men of the old ways consulted their tomes and cast their spells to decipher whatever sign the heavens had seen fit to show, whereas the skeptics, men of these new times, struggled to explain the phenomenon through science and logic. The apathetic just laughed and sat by as they always did.

Those fifteen meteors were fitting, for they marked the coming of the year 1500. Today is the turn of a century, and with it, an era. Magic has began its decline and now as its practitioners dwindle in number, so too does their power seem to fade away from this world. In place of magic have come a great many new and terrifying things: gunpowder, steel, and industry. All manner of wondrous new innovations come from the eastern lands; the Commonwealth has united those lands of the rising run under one banner and sparked a golden age of technology and science.

Today also marks a monumental day for the Commonwealth: the fortieth birthday of Wladyslaw III, Divine Emperor and First Citizen. As his days grow numbered, he seeks ensure that his name is glorified and remembered. Many whisper that he looks to Albion in the west, wanting to bring those divided lands under the Commonwealth's great banner to establish a lasting legacy of his reign.

But the nations of Albion have their grand ambitions too; five years ago the New World was discovered by pirates and explorers, and in these past years there has been a scramble to chart the western lands and claim their riches.

So just as the New World lies seductively in the west, a new world of a different sort comes from the east to take Albion by storm and bring about a technological revolution; it is be an age of industry and steel, of science and philosophy, and it that will shake Albion to the core. This era could see Albion and its ancient civilizations fade into dust and irrelevance, or it could be a golden age in which declining states could rise to rule the world. What will happen? Only time can tell.

---

OOC Information and RP Details

First and foremost, we have a Discord channel. Feel free to jump in and say hello!

Plot information:

Conflicts brew from many sides. The Commonwealth is of course a looming threat that has cast Albion in its shadow; with each passing year, its influence over the continent grows. As colonialism begins to take root, conflicts over the western lands will no doubt arise. Even in Albion there is conflict between magic and technology and between the different faiths.

Game Mechanics

The RP will be broken into loose "turns". Each turn will represent one month of time IC. You are allowed to perform multiple action on each turn; the point isn't to restrict action so much as keep a consistent flow of time and help us keep track of how long certain actions (like raising an army) have been going on for.

We begin on January 1 of the year 1500, with the years in the date being counted from a Cataclysmic volcanic eruption.

Rules:

Though not an exhaustive list, here's some important rules to keep in mind:

1. Good grammar and some effort please. I've labeled this RP to be Mid/High Casual and will thus expect the effort of at least a few paragraphs per post.
2. On the topic of posts, going inactive for a long time without at least telling us will result in us having to terminate you from the RP and go through the effort of either writing your nation out of the story. It probably also means having someone else control it when needed. That's all a big hassle, so please don't make the commitment of joining this RP unless you're ready to keep it.
3. If you feel it necessary to keep your secrets, plotting against nations and the like can be done in PMs instead of on the OOC. I'll ask that you include me though, just so that I can keep in the loop as GM.
4. Regarding technology level, let's try to keep things near the early Renaissance time period for the nations of Albion, at least for the beginning of the RP. I am willing to allow certain fantasy materials like mithril or adamantine so long as they aren't ridiculously powerful.
5. At the bottom of each IC post, add a small summary placed inside of a hider. This becomes very helpful when trying to look back or for those that are struggling to keep up with the RP.

Concerning the world:

Most recent map of the world, with some claims marked

To elaborate upon what information was provided on the interest check, the central continent with our nations on it is called Albion. The one to the west is the so-called 'New World' with the continent being named Oesteland. The Commonwealth controls Heilig, the northeastern continent, and south of Heilig the Commonwealth's ongoing imperialism has led to them expanding into that continent, known as Suid.

The map above is of the full world and all its landmasses. Note that this is not an accurate representation of the knowledge possessed IC; cartography during this time period was spotty. In Albion very little is known about Oesteland and even parts of Suid or eastern Heilig.

Concerning Nation Sheets:

Here is the rough template; to be clear you can customize your NS however you like. This is just a suggested format that should help you figure out what needs to be said.

Nation Sheet Template

Name: (Feel free to make some giant fancy wordart for YOUR GLORIOUS NATION'S EQUALLY GLORIOUS NAME)
Flag/emblem/symbolism: (optional; feel free to give picture or description)
Demonym: (What are your people called? The English? The Bwitish? The Fwench? The 'muricans?)
Description: (A summary of your nation goes here; basics on what's going on and what the country is about. Traditions worthy of note go here, recent history, unique traits,...)

Government: (Your rolls gave you a general guideline, but feel free to elaborate and go into as much detail as you like here)

Economy: (Just describe the major industries, activities and how they are organized. What are notable exports and imports? What is your nation lacking? Your rolls should help you figure this out)

Religion: (If present, more than one?)

Geography:
(Jungle, grassland, mountains, etc. Be sure to identify where on the map you are, preferably by posting a clip of the region you wish to occupy, keeping in mind the relative size of your territory as was given in your rolls. We may have to move you around to make it work.)

Population: (Was given in your rolls)

Demographics
(Makeup of your population; info of the different species of your people, further subdivided into ethnic groups if you like, maybe even mention linguistics)

Notable Locations
(Give us some info about your capital, other important cities, maybe where your forts and colonies (if you have any) are located)

Personalities of Note
(Your ruler, perhaps your highest military officers, generally just use this space to help us keep track of your POV characters)

Institutions:
(Major non-military institutions of the nations, such as legislative bodies, guilds, religious sects)

Military:
Organization: (Professional/militia/levy/..., doctrine, tactics, equipment, though the latter can be put underneath as well, etc.)
Troop Total: (Keep reality and upkeep in mind, e.g. 3% of your population as full-time professional soldiers would be a whole lot. Many seemingly unrelated factors can go into this, including abundance/lack of food and your nation's wealth)
Army:
Navy:
Other: (Such as siege equipment, internal security, important mercenaries, spies, etc.)

Other:
Special traits, remarks, boons and flaws(Here is your chance to decide something unique and important about your nation without basing it on the rolls I gave you. You may have 1 strength that makes you special, 2 strengths and 1 weakness, or 3 strengths and 2 weaknesses. Ask if you're having trouble coming up with something)

When posting your nation sheet please also include your rolls for easy comparison.

FAQ:

Ask questions so that I have stuff to put here ;p

Waiting List:

I would like to thank everyone for their interest. We've gotten to the point that we have quite a few rolls handed out, and even if only half of you made nations and became active then we'd have a pretty solid base. At this point I'm unfortunately going to have to stop handing out rolls to anyone else that would like to join. I will however start a waiting list for those that would like to join if we have openings later on down the line.

@Cyclone

The List

1. BingTheWing (contacted)
2. Lady Selune (contacted)
3. Chairman Stein
4. Brithwyr

Credits:

Credits to Chenzor and several of the other guys in the Civilizations RP Discord chat. They gave me the motivation to try making this RP and they helped me iron out some of the ideas.

Credits also to Sini's An Age of Empires RP from a few years back. I'm taking a lot of inspiration from that RP (however brief it was) and might copy his rolls mechanic.

We have @TheArhive to thank for making our map. He did it all; nevermind that silly @Archetype Zero.

And lastly, @Willy Vereb helped me in writing out and balancing the potential rolls.

For those who are interested, a link to the Interest Check for this RP and the thread for the previous version of this RP.

[Lady Selune]

Checking in!

[Medjedovic]

@CycloneCan you post a link to a bigger resolution map please? I can't see the numbers clearly on this one.

BTW, these claims are NPC nations or our nations?

[Ascendant]

The Blood Hierarchy

WIP



The Blood Hierarchy

Singular: Bloody, Bloodborne
Plural: The Bloodied
Insults: Vamps, Slavers, Bloodsuckers, etc

Description: The Blood Hierarchy is an often disparaged nation of vampires, forged for the sole purpose of providing a safe haven for those of the blood-drinking persuasion. Rarely if ever has it expanded its borders or attempted to subjugate another nation, preferring instead to defend itself when necessary. Considering its 'bloody' nature, the Hierarchy is surprisingly pacifistic. This has been a tenable situation because of the defensible nature of its terrain and the numerous bottlenecks and chokepoints present within its borders.

This pacifistic nature, combined with an essentially undying populace, has lent itself to breeding some of the most important forerunners of magic and technology, with recent pushes in technology being towards fusing magic and technology much the same way that the rumors say the Commonwealth is attempting. Indeed, the Blood College is one of the premier institutes of both science and magic, garnering students from across the world, students that often end up becoming Citizens of the Hierarchy.

Unfortunately, the Hierarchy's perennial refusal to push outward and attempt to influence, dominate, or otherwise unnecessarily interact with its neighbors has in recent times led to a shrinking economy, and an an ever-boring and malnutritious supply of food for the peasants, among other issues. Because of this, combined with the ever present feeling of oppression many peasants feel naturally as they essentially serve as a blood supply, the Hierarchy has been experiencing a growing segment of the population that are becoming louder about lacking many things in life. In the past, it was enough that the Blood Dream existed, where a peasant could rise and become a Citizen by proving themselves capable, but now, the Blood Dream seems to be less and less capable at satiating the non-vampiric species.

Government: The government is headed at its top by one of the oldest vampires and most powerful sorcerers in existence, referred to only as The Blood Lord, who holds all power in the realm. From them, their power trickles down into a carefully crafted bureaucracy of Ministries who have dominion over certain aspects of the realm, with beneath them being smaller local provincial governments, all of whom are given positions only by proving their capabilities in whatever field they choose to dedicate their eternity to.

Economy: The economy that isn't agrarian is centered primarily around textiles, ironworking, and woodworking, with the Hierarchy's centuries-old craftsmen making lavish works of art, fashion, or impressively fine weapons and armors. Indeed, it is said that a Bloody Sword or Bloody Cannon is among the best in the world to own, if the owner cares not for its source. Their economy is also deeply interwoven with science and magic, as their scientists and magicians continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Unfortunately, the lack of agrarian or animal products, as well as a few other simpler goods or even precious metals, requires the Hierarchy to allow its merchants to trade with the outside world for these goods.

Religion: The Blood Hierarchy's official stance on religion is simple: "God Is Dead." This conclusion is obvious given the existence of a nation of vampires who never die from old age.

Geography: TBD

Population: 2,300,000

Demographics
10% Vampiric Persons (Citizens): 230,000
Subdivided into various races
90% Other (Non-Citizens): 2,070,000
Exact composition TBD

Notable Locations
TBD

Personalities of Note
The Blood Lord, an enigmatic ruler whose name has been lost to time. Known to be an incredible sorcerer as well as one of the oldest vampires. Few people say they've met the person, even fewer aren't lying.

More TBD

Institutions:
The Blood College, a world-renowned institute of science and magic. Many students who come here never return, choosing instead to become a Citizen and grab hold of the opportunity to live forever, studying their field.

More TBD

Military:
Organization: A professional volunteer force composed essentially entirely of Citizens, besides some logistics people, which is most skilled in defending positions and reacting quickly to threats, though drills are conducted for offensive maneuvers. Many of the Citizens within the military have spent decades or centuries fighting, and are battle-hardened veterans. Their equipment is nearly always kept in superb order and reused or recycled, and the military as a whole is known for their professionalism and morale, as if they fall, the only known haven for vampirism falls.

Troop Total: 46,000 Citizens (2% of total population. It is mandated that every 1 in 5 Citizens serves in the military, and this service is seen by most as an incredible honor to preserve the Haven and the Hierarchy.)

Army: (Far more supported due to the Hierarchy's omnipresent threat from across the land. Most of the members of the military can use magic at some level or another. However, it is the Lordlings who wield magic with horrendous affect.)
Infantry: 37,000
Pikemen: 10,000
Arquebusiers: 2,000
Longbowmen: 20,000
Lordlings (mage soldiers, often higher ranked): 5,000
Cavalry: 3,000
Light Cavalry: 1,000
Heavy Cavalry: 2,000
Cannoneers: 6,000
Fieldsmen: 4,000
Siegemen: 2,000

Navy: (Typically neglected due to lack of interest in projecting naval power)
War Galleys: 50

Other:
2,000 Field Cannon designed for killing people mainly using hundreds of tiny iron balls as ammunition
700 Siege Cannon designed to break walls and/or kill nasty armored beasts.

Other:
Vampirism: The Hierarchy's primary defining feature is simple: the existence of its Vampire Citizens who make up 10% of the populace and 100% of the government and military. Various myths about Vampires have been perpetuated though, such as thinking they lack shadows, reflections, can change into bats, are evil cursed beings, die in sunlight, or are somehow allergic to garlic or any other nonsense. No, the reality is that vampires are simply faster, stronger, hardier versions of normal species who run on blood (or in the military's case, desiccated blood that is reconstituted with water when prepared for a meal) instead of regular food or water and who will never die of old age or even age beyond their prime. There are no special magical powers associated with vampirism. The unusually high precedence of magic among Citizens is simply down to their incredible average age.

The main price a vampire pays for being a vampire is that many people absolutely detest them, and they must deal with having to drink the blood of sentients, willingly or otherwise. Killing a vampire requires much the same as killing a non-vampire; beheading them, smashing their skull in, blowing off their limbs, or just draining them of blood. There is no special one-size-fits-all-and-nothing-else-works method. While they don't drown, they do starve if they go without blood for too long.

Rolls 16

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
2,300,000
Territory Size:
3. Your nation is smaller than average but there's still plenty of territory to work with. While the lack of endless farmland might prove an issue, you do at least enjoy the benefits of relatively small and easily defended borders.
Technology:
5. Rapid modernization, you've taken revolutionary steps to advance your nation which puts you ahead of the average.
Prevalence of Magic:
5. Magic is considered a common feat to your people and you're famous for your magic powers worldwide.
Government Type:
4. Your nation is ruled by one great emperor with functionally unlimited power. Beneath him is a large bureaucracy, but under this imperial system there is a meritocracy. Your magistrates and administrators have been tested and found competent; therefore, they earned their position unlike some noble that simply inherited it from his father.
Political Stability:
1. Your country is suffering quite a bit of inner turmoil and is on the brink of having an outright rebellion. No doubt your neighbors are aware of this and perhaps looking to exploit your status for their own benefit!

Economy

Overall Wealth:
3. Your nation was once in good enough shape, but recent events have caused a large recession and now your economy is shrinking. If this isn't resolved soon, major issues will arise. The people are used to a higher standard of life than they are currently experiencing, and as food supplies contract there may be mass starvation and the collapse of industry, commerce, or even government.
Urbanization:
4. Your nation is decently urbanized with the fair balance of towns and rural areas
Agriculture:
3. Turnips and radishes are almost all that you grow, and so most peasants eat those revolting foods almost exclusively. While there's enough food to go around, malnutrition and lack of diversity are large issues.
Notable Resources:
Cloth, hardwood, iron

Military
Military Structure:
5. Large, strictly volunteer corp of professional soldiers that takes considerable upkeep. A sizable and reasonably effective standing army, but little else supports it during wartime.
Military Focus
1. Well-rounded and disciplined army with no outright strengths or specialties
Navy:
2. Weak naval power, only sufficient for securing their territorial waters
Military Leadership
6. Competence of generals varies greatly; they are usually powerful sorcerers; decadent
Military Reputation
12. To outsiders you military is seen only as a disciplined and effective force, but to your own people the military is ruthless and oppressive.

[CaptainBritton]

Miressa

Republic of Miressa

Demonym

Miressans

Description

Miressa was ‘born’ as an autonomous being a century ago, though it has existed much longer, through a troubled past of glory and failure. It began as a city-state, partially autonomous from the much larger and much more powerful state known as the Khidoran Imperium. A nation founded upon securing a bastion of religious and cultural homogeneity according to their own beliefs. Other than religious presence, the Imperium left its subjugated states to their own devices for some time.

Miressa itself was a small port city on the northeasternmost area of the peninsula which comprised the Imperium’s northern border. Situated on a major waterway which connected the eastern lands to inner Albion, Miressa took the liberty of making itself rich, a trade hub from east to west. It fostered dynasties of bankers and tradesmen, merchants and artisans, all pulling strings on the city-state.

Though Miressa prospered under these relaxed policies of the Imperium, it was not meant to last. The Emperor of Khidora soon perished of age, leaving behind no successors, not even an Empress or well-known extended family. Soon, a larger conflict sparked, dubbed the War of the Khidoran Succession, with powers vying for control of the greater Khidoran lands. Though Miressa was not initially at risk, it was soon within the crosshairs of a particularly unpopular, yet powerful successor, self-proclaimed as Alfeo Khidora, true Emperor.

He began to consolidate his power in the lands in and around Miressa, tightening his grip. He demanded money from the wealthy banker families of Miressa, promising threats to those who would dare oppose him. While many heeded the warning, others bided their time, gathering support in secret, creating a network of rebels.

And on one fateful day, the forces met. The rebels had constructed a complex series of redoubts outside Miressa, creating a chokepoint at the strip of land which led to Miressa proper. A series of skirmishes ensued, which sparked into full assaults. Though peasantry manned the redoubts, they forced the enemy to turn tail time and time again as the professional knights and mercenaries contracted by the bankers rode the thick flanks with lances lowered, forcing the chokepoint even harder. By dusk, Alfeo’s forces were on the run, retreating south. Though pursuits by the mercenary knights of Miressa proved unfruitful and heavy with losses due to forced marches and ill-timed weather, Alfeo’s army was soon sandwiched, with Miressan forces to the north and opposing successor factions to the south.

Miressan forces were soon forced to withdraw due to overextended supply lines, but Alfeo’s forces were nevertheless crushed by opposing successors. The War of Succession continued, Miressa undisturbed and unmolested for the remainder, and all successor factions were weakened beyond able rulership, with most of the successors killed in battle by the end of it. The shackles of the Imperium were gone, and Miressa stood as the last remaining faction with the will and ability to rule. They extended their borders to a respectable amount of what once was the Imperium, and legitimized their rule by extending the law of the Miressa Council, which ruled the city of Miressa, to all newly acquired lands. Due to the wealth of Miressa and the sheer change of tolerance compared to the Imperium, citizens welcomed them with open arms.

Government

The current standing government is the Council of Miressa. Elected by lottery, these thirteen men make the decisions for all of the Miressan territories. Always, these councilmen have equal power, save for the thirteenth man, which is the highest power presiding over the Council, and is installed by lottery for the purpose of breaking ties, settling arguments and bad blood affecting decisions, and being the figurehead of the Council. Each councilman has a two-year term, with their election years staggered for steady introduction of government. The head councilman, however, is generally picked by lottery from the currently reigning councilmen every six months. Often all these lotteries, both to select councilmen and the head councilman, are secretly modified in favor of influential and rich individuals and families, with the same family names of bankers and guildsmen with great wealth appearing in an almost hereditary manner, supplemented with the absence of term limits. However, there are terms to be eligible for the lottery. The person must be of 24 years or older, a member of an established trades guild, have no debts or financial instability, and be male.

Economy

The economy of Miressa is one of great wealth, booming with its trade. Though its agrarian sector is primarily subsistence farming among peasants, a growing amount of sugar seeds and opium poppy seeds acquired from the Commonwealth are being planted in the Miressan floodplains which possess extraordinary qualities for agriculture. Despite a focus on maritime and agrarian economy, amounts of both tin and marble have been found beneath the mud and sands of the floodplains. Some dare to gamble their coinage to capitalize on these valuables, and some succeed.

Religion

WIP

Geography

The capital city of Miressa itself, the heart of the Republic, is itself located out to sea. Built upon sunken marshes, it is a city of complex canals and is built only six feet above sea level. Surrounding it and spreading even into the mainland are floodplains of rich soil and washed up minerals, formed by the sea itself and tributary rivers flowing over the peninsula.

Population

4,100,000 persons accounted for by the Miressan Census Bureau, with 86% residing in a rural environment, 14% in an urban or sub-urban environment.

Demographics

89% Humans
(Rest is WIP)

Notable Locations

Miressa, Capital of the Republic

Miressa, the crown jewel of the Republic. Though a run-down fishing village centuries ago, it is now a sprawling hub of trade servicing both the powers of Albion and the merchants of the Commonwealth.

Notable Persons

WIP

Institutions

The staple of Miressa is its guilds, of which 8 preside over the rest. Those thirteen are: The Guild of Merchants, the Guild of Arcane Practices, the Guild of Law & Justice, the Guild of Weaving & Clothesmaking, the Guild of Agriculture, the Guild of Mineral Mining & Sculpting, and the Guild of Exploration & Seafaring, in order of influence.

Military

Organization:
The Grand Army of Miressa is the primary armed body of the Republic, consisting of a small, but professional force that stands year-round. It consists primarily of well-trained and hired career huscarls, serjeants, and men-at-arms, all of which generally are mounted to maximize mobility while armored, making them particularly vulnerable to polearms, though these men are trained to fight dismounted if need be, however the equestrian culture of their fighting dictates that if they cannot do it from horseback, they shall not do it at all. Despite the professionalism of their main force, the Grand Army suffers from weak leadership, with commanders often being young and naive nobles and knights from the wealthy families of Miressa, having either gained their commissions by hereditary means, or had their commissions bought for a pretty penny.

Despite the seemingly small force of predominantly cavalry, it would be foolish to conclude that the Grand Army cannot field a large force of infantry in emergencies. This is done through two primary means. Firstly is the measure almost always taken in times of war, in which ‘debtors levies’ are raised from those in particularly bad financial situations or in debt. Their service often pays off their debt if they survive, and if they are to die, their possessions being acquired by the government generally covers the difference. This often draws many, even some who are not levied, rather volunteer to cover their own debt. The second method is levy by lottery, the means not unknown to most nations with a system of levying, in which names are drawn at random for service. However, most wealthy persons avoid this by paying a substitution, which is a person willing to fill in for service for those who can pay them a lump sum to do so.

As for seafaring, the Miressan Grand Navy is a rather large one. Based out of Miressa itself, they are primarily an armed merchant marine accompanied by a sizeable escort navy of armed caravels, carracks, galleys, and other maneuverable and combat-capable vessels. The navy is primarily staffed by professional sailors and its levies are acquired the same as the army, only targeted at seafaring types such as merchants, fishermen, and explorers.

Troop Total:
Grand Total: 24,000 personnel

Grand Army

Total: 18,000

Firstly are the men that lead them all, the knights, nobles, and lords in shining full plate, mounted upon steeds just as well armored as them. While symbolic of bravery and manhood, Miressa’s population of these men are in contrast to it. Often these troops are young, most short of thirty, with few having earned their position, rather having their commissions bought by their families or handed down by hereditary means. The one glimpse of professionalism amongst this caste of men are the knights themselves, as they are the only ones sworn to chivalry and fundamentally trained in combat, often breeding the few and far between experienced commanders. Current accounts put these at about 2,000 in number.

Next are the bulk of the Grand Army, men just as armored as their knightly and aristocratic counterparts, only not holding the same rank, being trained to follow, not lead, despite the ineptitude of their leadership. These men are career soldiers, the best Miressa has to offer, with all being mounted and preferring to fight as such. While they are trained to fight dismounted, most hold the belief instilled into them by a culture of equestrian combat: If it cannot be done from horseback, it shall not be done at all. Current accounts number these at 15,000.

While almost completely absent in peacetime, it would be an injustice to neglect to mention those who fill this role. Known colloquially as ‘debtors levies’ (regardless of whether they were actually levied or made up of volunteers) these men often consist of those who are in debt of any form. Depending on the situation, some volunteer when faced with opportunity to rid themselves of debt, while other units are entirely levied with the promise of debts being paid as enticement to not attempt desertion. While not nearly as well equipped as their professional peers, they still have a much-required niche in battle, partially counterbalancing the sheer focus on cavalry the other portions of the army possess. Numbered at little to none in peacetime, with about 20,000 men available for being levied.


Lastly is an auxiliary so new and dwarfed, some struggle to understand it in full. These are the arquebusiers, a small force of men armed with the newest development in warfare technology, arquebuses, also known as matchlock firearms. Working by a constantly lit match soaked in whale oil, it ignites powder which hurls a lead ball larger in size than one’s thumb at the enemy, inflicting devastating damage. These men are often armored lightly and trained to fight from horseback and on foot quite effectively, with no qualms from the men. When mounted, they are often deployed on a flank, expected to screen the enemy and inflict damage from afar while maintaining maximum mobility. However, most often they are deployed on foot, where they truly excel. Almost always combined with a reserve force of polearm-equipped infantry, they march within the larger formation of men, stopping within 75-50 yards and firing off 1-3 volleys before running back behind the formation of infantry accompanying them, allowing the infantry to engage. However, this does not mean arquebusiers cannot hold their own. Often their cuirasses and helmets are well-tempered for close-in combat, and they are generally armed with arrays of arming sword, basket-hilted broadswords, and claymores which they can use to great effect in slashing apart enemies which are not particularly heavily armored. Numbered at nearly 1,000, but often estimated less than that.

Grand Navy

Total: 6,000

Considered one of the most numerous vessel types in the Grand Navy, the caravel is a particularly maneuverable ship that packs its own punch, able to be armed with an array of bombards, cannons, and swivel guns which serve to tear enemy vessels in twain.

Also numerous, the galley is in contrast to its counterparts, in that it is both rowed and sailed, maximizing speed towards the destination at the expense of causing its crew great fatigue. The galley is generally utilized for transportation over bodies of water, however is not unknown to be armed with swivel guns and light bombards for light defense from other vessels.

Perhaps the most numerous vessel in the Grand Navy, the carrack has a distinction from the others, in that it is rather unmaneuverable, sacrificing a light profile for a massive array of ordnance and a gargantuan hold compared to other vessels. The carrack is the strongman of the Grand Navy.

Other

Trade agreement with Konglomerat Blaserkr: Gunpowder & Gunpowder Weaponry for a select tonnage of Opium, Marble, Tin, Sugar, and Tobacco.

Rolls

Rolls 22

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
4,100,000
Territory Size:
3. Your nation is smaller than average but there's still plenty of territory to work with. While the lack of endless farmland might prove an issue, you do at least enjoy the benefits of relatively small and easily defended borders.
Technology:
4. Adequate modernization, you manage to keep pace with the rest of Albion.
Prevalence of Magic:
5. Magic is considered a common feat to your people and you're famous for your magic powers worldwide.
Government Type:
2. Your nation is ruled by that shine of gold and silver. In a society where money is power, the wealthy elite form a plutocratic government. Bloodline is still important (because of course a person born into a wealthy family is worth more than some pauper!) but your ancestry becomes irrelevant the moment that you run out of coin. At least there is some degree of social mobility in that a poor merchant can perhaps work his way up into the elite; in more traditional and aristocratic countries, rising up might not even be possible.
Political Stability:
6. You enjoy the benefit of having a serene and peaceful nation. There's barely any crime and you don't have a rebellion brewing, so rejoice!

Economy

Overall Wealth:
5. Your nation has a solid and rather stable economy. You have the means to finance most of the projects that your government wants to undertake, and most of your people enjoy a good standard of living.
Urbanization:
2. Aside from your capital and perhaps one or two urban centers, you have a very highly rural population. There is likely some system such as serfdom with most people living off the land.
Agriculture:
6. Rather than staple or food crops, most of your farmland is devoted to the growing of cash crops. While this makes you money, a fair amount of that is probably spent on importing food from places with more of an abundance. This is fine and you're probably wealthier for it, but your people rarely enjoy fresh food and you have grown heavily dependent on those trade routes that feed your nation.
Notable Resources:
Sugar, opium or other "medicinal substances", tin

Military
Military Structure:
2. Small core of elite soldiers, supplemented by some mercenaries in wartime. Overall not a very large force.
Military Focus
4. Excessive focus on cavalry at the expense of decent infantry.
Navy:
5. Decently powerful navy with enough ships and sailors to fight as much you'd like
Military Leadership
1. Generals are very loyal to the government but gained the position by hereditary status and not necessarily merit
Military Reputation
4. Your military tends to have strokes of bad luck in most of its campaigns.

It's still WIP, but mostly finished.

[Zealous Blade]

Carrying over from the interest check. Still WIP at the moment but its getting there.

Dusmaiji Empire

Dusmaiji Empire

Demonym: Dusmaijik
Description: The Dusmaiji Empire is an union of ethnic tribes brought together by the conquest of the warlord Mubarum who lead his own tribe, the Chizu, against the others that occupied the Dusmai Desert and the encompassing lands. As strength was always highly valued by the Dusmai peoples, Mubarum's conquest was respected and honored by those who failed to defeat him and the Dusmaiji Empire was born. The tribes who submitted to the Empire were allowed to retain their lands while those who did not were exterminated. When established, the Dusmaiji Empire was intended to be a civilization "for those who roots were truly of the Dusmai Desert," as per the words of Emperor Mubarum I himself. While in the present it is unknown what exactly he meant by having roots truly of the Dusmai Desert, his great grandson Mubarum IV declared that this statement meant that the Dusmaiji Empire was only for the humans of the Dusmai Desert and thus began the marginalization of its other races such as the centaurs and more so the sand elves who always had a past of persecution by the human tribes. Even in the present non-humans (in addition to foreigners) are not allowed to own property within the Dusmaiji Empire though the Emperor can grant this privilege to those who earn his favor.

While the inhabitants of Dusmaiji vary in culture and language, collectivism is an almost universally upheld value and it is the rope that binds its different peoples together. Citizens are expected to put the good of the empire first, the good of their tribe second, and their own personal good last. To prioritize oneself is an act akin to treason and those who are found doing so are ostracized. Surnames are not used by Dusmaijik humans. Instead, they are distinguished by their community first and their parentage second. For instance, a man named Kuza of the Shali tribe would refer to himself as Kuza of the Shali. Should he come across another of his name and tribe he would refer to himself as Kuza, son of his father and mother's name. In Dusmaiji gender roles vary between tribes though the imperial dynasty has a strictly male line of succession. Therefore, is not rare to find women in positions of high esteem.

Government: The Empire is an absolute monarchy with the head of state being the emperor whose word is regarded as law. There is a feudal system in place in which tribes are able to hold and control their own territories but must supply the Empire with whatever is demanded whenever they are asked to do so. There exists a meritocracy, the Chamber of Masteries, which the Emperor can control but cannot directly assign members as its positions must be earned.

Tribe Heads

Although they pledge fealty to the Empire, the tribes of Dusmaiji are allowed to retain their lands. While they are far from equal in strength and influence all tribes possess the same rights and responsibilities as one another. Tribe leaders must collect taxes and pay a percentage to the crown and levy troops for the Empire during wartime. Otherwise, they have full reign within their lands as long as they do not contradict the mandates of the Empire. Tribe Heads are able to support candidates for the Chamber of Masteries.

There are well over a hundred tribes within the Dusmaiji Empire and the majority of them are very small numbering less than a hundred. Larger tribes have a tendency to subjugate smaller ones though such relationships are neither encouraged or discouraged by the empire. Lands which are unclaimed by a tribe are under the direct control of the emperor until he decides to grant them to a tribe.

Non-humans, although allowed to live within the empire's lands, are treated as second class citizens and any tribes/groups they may assemble are usually unrecognized by the empire. The only exception is a single orc clan, the Muggarfang, who were able to gain recognition for their military prowess. In most cases, any lands occupied predominantly by non-humans belong personally to the Emperor unless he gives them to a tribe head.

Chamber of Masteries

The Chamber of Masteries consists of administrative positions that are earned on the basis of skill within a particular area and recognition for feats that have benefited the Empire as a whole. While the Emperor has the right to command the Chamber of Masteries as he sees fit, he cannot directly assign anyone to these positions (however he is allowed to nominate his own candidates). Typically, a candidate of the Chamber of Masteries must complete a trial of some sort to be officially awarded the position. Such trials always require them to outperform the position's current holder. As many seek to become an eminent, the title which those within the Chamber are known by, it is an ever changing body with only those who are truly competent retaining their position for longer than two years. Terms within the Chamber of Masteries have no limit and one may reign for as long as they remain worthy. The Emperor can immediately remove an eminent if they are found guilty of treason. Disobeying the Emperor, which may or may not be deemed treason depending on the circumstance, is grounds for automatic removal from the Chamber of Masteries.

Eminent of War
The Eminent of War is the individual regarded as not only the strongest fighter in the empire but also its greatest combat leader. They are in charge of the Empire's entire land army and are responsible for levy troops from the tribe heads in times of war. The Eminent of War typically cooperates with the Empire and tribe heads to concoct strategies though their qualification usually allows them the final say in matters. To become eligible for the position, a candidate must first gain the support of seven tribe heads before being allowed to face the previous Master of War in a trial of combat.

Eminent of Magic
The Eminent of Magic is recognized as the best mage in the Empire and it is understood that they should be able to perform the most difficult spells. Whoever holds the position is also designated as the leader of the Enchanters' Guild. Essentially, the job of the Eminent of Magic is to act as the chief of all arcane matters within the Empire. They supervise the usage of magic within the Empire and advise the Emperor on handling subjects relating to it. The selection of the Eminent of Magic is made by the archmages of the Empire's magic schools. Trials vary with examples comprising the performance of a high caliber spell to the brewing of a rare potion.

Eminent of Architecture
The Eminent of Architecture is the best builder in the entire Empire. They are responsible for designing structures and managing major projects approved by the Emperor. To become the Eminent of Architecture, a candidate must complete a structure that earns the praise of seven tribe heads. It cannot be the first project by the candidate.

Eminent of Trade
The Eminent of Trade is in charge of the Empire's treasury and keeping track of its expenses. They advise the Emperor on financial matters, make sure that other eminents remain within budget when carrying out their duties, and raise money for the Empire by seeing to it that the tribe heads pay their taxes. The Eminent of Trade also orchestrates international trade routes and works with the Eminent of Diplomacy to secure deals with other nations that are best for the Empire. Trials for deciding the Eminent of Trade vary but are always mathematically oriented.

Eminent of Diplomacy
The Eminent of Diplomacy is in charge of overseeing the Empire's international relations and affairs. If there is a meeting in another country and it isn't exactly viable for the Emperor himself to attend, they will on his behalf. Only the most eloquent speaker in the Empire is allowed to attain the position and a candidate is selected through a debate judged by a panel consisting of several important figures within the Empire, the Emperor himself included.

Eminent of Nature
The Eminent of Nature is the top survivalist and agriculturalist in the Empire. They are entrusted with keeping tracking of the nation's geography, wildlife, and updating its map whenever new discoveries are made. Becoming the Eminent of Nature requires a candidate to be recommended by seven tribe heads before partaking in a survival trial in the Dusmai Desert. To pass the trial, the candidate must surpass the current's record.

Eminent of Art
The Eminent of Art is the most esteemed artist within the Empire and is a master of multiple forms of expression such as music, painting, literature, theater, and sculpting. The Eminent of Art takes charge of major projects authorized by the Emperor and sets the standard within the Empire for what is and is not appropriate as artistic expression. They often work closely with the Eminent of Architecture in designing structures as well.

Eminent of History
The Eminent of History is the top authority on the Empire's past and is entrusted with recording accurate accounts of present events. If the Eminent of History does not have a record of an event then the validity of its occurrence is questionable. The Eminent of History is chosen based on their writing capability.

Eminent of the Sea
The Eminent of the Sea is regarded as the best sailor that the Empire has to offer. They are also placed in charge of the navy and hold the rank of Grand Whale Lord.

Eminent of the Sky
The Eminent of the Sky is the individual most knowledgeable about the cosmos and the leader of the Sky Watchers. They are in charge of monitoring the sky and reporting anything of interest to the Emperor.

Eminent of the Mind
The Eminent of the Mind is regarded as the brightest scholar within the Empire and is trusted with distinguishing science from magic and providing their expertise on the former. The Eminent of Mind should also be an esteemed philosopher who is able to give insight on matters concerning morals and ethics. An academic test orchestrated by the Empire's top non-magical colleges decides eligibility for the Eminent of Magic.

Eminent of the Eye
The Eminent of the Eye is the best spy within the Empire and is in charge of all intelligence gathering operations.

Economy: Due to its sporadic droughts and an extensive dry season, Dusmaiji's growing seasons are not as long as those of more fertile lands and there are only certain times within the year that substantial amount of crops can be farmed. Agriculture is far from the most profitable industry for Dusmaiji but they do manage to produce the minimum amount of food to survive. Whenever farming cannot be relied on meat from animals is resorted to as the primary means of nourishing the population. Therefore, additional crops are a major import of the Empire and are highly sought after.

The Dusmaiji economy places more emphasis on manufacturing. The premier export of Dusmaiji is silk and its production has led to a booming industry that has brought a population influx from rural areas to the cities. Boasting decent iron deposits, Dusmaiji is also a big arms dealer and sells affordable weapons and armor to other nations with higher quality options available if demanded. Art, while deemed not as important as the previously denoted sources of revenue, has also been a chief export for the Empire with its sculptures being highly coveted by collectors due to the unique black and purple coloration of Dusmaijik marble.

Religion: There are a plethora of animist faiths that exist within the Empire but there is only one official religion supported by the crown. Foreign religions are frowned upon but are allowed to be privately practiced.

Arafito

Arafito is the official religion of the Dusmaiji Empire and is practiced by a good sixty percent of the population. According to ancient scriptures, its name means "bond" but its exact origins cannot be pinpointed. Arafito is a polytheistic faith with the chief deities being twins known as the Locked Gods. Practitioners of Arafito are known as Arafitans and they believe that the world was formed by the decapitation of both the Locked Gods. The individual names of the Locked Gods have lost their significance over the years and in the present they are regarded as a single, unified deity rather than two separate ones. The Locked Gods are depicted as two male, headless humanoids that are bound together in a circle formation with both holding onto the ankles of the other.

Besides the Locked Gods there are other minor deities worshiped in Arafito and they are all regarded as the younger siblings of the Locked God though the parentage of the pantheon is never explained. Unlike the Locked Gods they still retain their individual names though their titles are also frequently used by worshipers to identify them. The prominent minor deities of Arafito include Miagi, the God of Nature; Surnir, the God of Time; Xomes, the God of Miracles; Iduna, the Goddess of Strength; Gatar, God of the Night; Kaddal, God of the Day and Olra, Goddess of Vitality. Altogether Arafito has around seventy minor deities with a good amount having dropped in and out of obscurity over the centuries.

The central focus of Arafito is community and fellowship. A good Arafitan is selfless and desires are meant to be small with ambition being held in the same regard as lust. All Arafitans are meant to leave the world better than they found it and are expected to make decisions with their community in mind ahead of themselves. Arafito heavily correlates to the collectivist values of Dusmaiji which accelerated its popularity within the Empire.

As it is a faith built on bonds, marriage is of course highly cherished in Arafito. Union between a man and a woman is seen as a high level of service to the community as it is the foundation of a familial unit and essential to the raising of children. Infidelity is highly frowned upon but, as forgiveness is also encouraged by the faith, spouses are expected to eventually overcome any that may occur during the union. Bastard children, especially those born from infidelity, are accepted by Arafitans as members of the community though there is stigma placed on them.

Arranged marriages do exist in Arafito in higher levels of the social hierarchy and these unions are seen as benefits to the community as opposed to the individuals involved. Marriages in Arafito are conducted with the production of offspring always in mind. Those who do not plan on having children and expanding their family unit are not encouraged to get married but neither they are dissuaded away from doing so should they wish. Vows are regularly renewed on a basis of three years and in each instance the marriage is considered to be renewed. For instance, a couple that has been together for fifteen years would declare their current marriage as their fifth. These marriages are viewed as a cycle with every three marriages (nine years) representing a different stage in the couple's bond.

Arafito has a linear religious hierarchy with the High Wisdom, seated at the Owakaya temple, being at the top. The High Wisdom leads the Arafito faith and as its highest authority has the final say in the interpretation of scriptures and ideals. Beneath the Arafito is a council who collaborate in making decisions concerning the faith, normally how sins are to be dealt with. Beneath the council are oracles who communicate with the deities and relay messages to the council for analysis. Oracles are simply messengers are not allowed to interpret the messages they receive in any way less they be punished. Beneath oracles are missionaries who are charged with growing the faith and beneath them are miscellaneous clergymen who are meant to fill various roles within their communities, most being affiliated with a single deity.

Geography:

Map Claim

Savannas, jungles, and desert. The Dusmai Desert, for which the empire is named, comprises roughly 55% of the nation's land.

Population: 10,200,000
Demographics: The different races and ethnicities of Dusmaiji all speak their own language. Given the sheer amount of them within the Empire, there are well over a hundred different languages spoken across its borders. To 'simplify' communication across cultural lines, a common tongue known as Dusmaijik Tradespeak has been invented. As its name may suggest it was popularized by traders. Apart from Dusmaijik Tradespeak, the Chizu language is the most common ethnic language spoken within Dusmaiji. With a population of approximately 1,326,000 the Chizu tribe is the single largest ethnic group within Dusmaiji and its culture is regarded as dominant among all others.

Humans - 65%

Dusmaiji is mostly inhabited by dark-skinned humans divided into ethnic tribes. Many tribes thrive within Dusmaiji and no exact count has been tallied. Only tribes that are officially recognized by the Empire are allowed to lay claim to land. The majority of Dusmaijik tribes are small and number less than a hundred. Only three comprise more than five percent of the total human population and they are the Chizu, the tribe to which the imperial family belongs; the Nayan, and the Kiwongi. These tribes are known as the Three Great Tribes of the Dusmai.

Ethnic identity among Dusmaijik humans is important and the tribes place a high emphasis on being distinguished from the other. While some tribes share similar cultures and are closely related, others might as well be from opposing ends of the world. Prior to being united within the empire many of the tribes were enemies and tension still exists despite inter-tribe conflict being strictly prohibited. Inland settlements typically have a single tribe or two that make up the majority population. Because of trade, coastal settlements tend to be more diverse and accepting of differences.

Three Great Tribes

• Chizu - 20%
• Nayan - 12%
• Kiwongi - 8%

Major Tribes

• Ipowok - 4%
• Dumala - 2%
• Shali - 2%
• Nyesora - 1%

Minor Tribes: 47%

Orcs (5%)

The orcs of Dusmaiji pose the largest non-human presence in the Empire and, while still facing discrimination like other non-human races, are to a degree revered for their combat potency and contribution to the Dusmaijik military. They are also the only non-humans to have a group, the Muggarfang clan, be recognized by the crown.

Sand Elves (3%)

The sand elves of Dusmaiji live in their own separate tribes and are nomadic hunter-gatherers who follow prey across the Dusmai Desert. There has been longstanding bad blood between Dusmaijik humans and the sand elves, the prior believing the latter to be their cursed counterparts. Out of all the non-humans native to Dusmaiji, the sand elves have by far faced the most discrimination as their presence alone is seen as bad luck to Dusmaijik humans. It is not unusual for a human tribe to ban sand elves from their lands.

Centaurs (4%)

The centaurs of Dusmaiji are a distinct species in that their lower halves are not those of horses but rather camels. Similar to the sand elves, they also predominantly reside in the Dusmai Desert in nomadic tribes. Famed for their pacifism rather than their warriors, they frequently fall to the mercy of the lizardfolk who enslave them for transportation purposes.

Lizardfolk (1%)

The lizardfolk of Dusmaiji are the smallest native non-human race, their numbers having dwindled due to their violent history with the human tribes who have always held superiority in numbers. It is understood that there are two types of Dusmaijik lizardfolk - those who reside in the jungles and those who reside in the desert. These two groups of lizardfolk feud due to their cultural differences and even regard each other as entirely different species altogether. The jungle lizardfolk are isolationist and remain secluded in their hidden villages. The desert lizardfolk are aggressive and are known for raiding trade caravans as well as human settlements.

Other (22%)

Apart from the defined races and ethnicities which each have a noteworthy presence within the empire, there is an array who do not. While some of these minorities are native it is known that foreigners from all across Albion and the known world have migrated to Dusmaiji. While the Empire is strict on citizenship its immigration policies are to a degree lax allowing those who are willing to comply with its laws to reside within its borders. Ordinarily, immigrants come to Dusmaiji because of trade and educational opportunities. Conversion to Arafito is an increasingly popular attraction for immigrants as pilgrims often remain after making their trips to the holy city of Kiakala.

Notable Locations:
There are three cities of note.

Batchari

The capital of the Empire and the location of the Imperial Palace. It is built over a large lake in the Dusmai Desert.

Yagou

The largest port settlement in the Empire.

Kiakala

The sacred city. Kiakala is where those of the Arafito faith come to get in touch with their spirituality.

Personalities of Note:

Imperial Family

• Emperor Matizam, Supreme Lord of the Dusmai and Head of the Chizu
• Empress Thelanda
• Prince Sanyir
• Prince Kanis
• Prince Jaseel
• Princess Serira
• Princess Eserah
• Princess Njumira
• Princess Fokona

*Note: Emperor Matizam has many, many bastards both acknowledged and unacknowledged. They are not in the line of succession.

Chamber of Masteries

• Kirondou, Eminent of War
• Mphira, Eminent of Magic and Leader of the Enchanters' Guild
• Namin, Eminent of Architecture
• Hamoz, Eminent of Trade
• Elorik, Eminent of Diplomacy
• Kaidan, Eminent of Nature
• Sizari, Eminent of Art
• Chaker, Eminent of History
• Baniri, Eminent of the Sea
• Adunis, Eminent of the Sky and Leader of the Sky Watchers
• Joshari, Eminent of the Mind
• Kijoda, Eminent of the Eye

Tribe Heads

Great Tribes

• Kongabu, Head of the Nayan
• Rumondo, Head of the Kiwongi

Major Tribes

• Jukun, Head of the Ipowok
• Shekin, Head of the Dumala
• Harethu, Head of the Shali
• Akiji, Head of the Nyesora
• Krothu, Head of the Muggarfang clan of Orcs

Miscellaneous

• Ivrek, a Sand Elf nomad leader
• Phebran, a Centaur herd leader
• Gonto, a Lizardfolk clan leader
• Rik, a Lizardfolk clan leader
• Shandeam, High Wisdom of the Owakaya
• Osamka, Archmage of Nokora College of Spellcraft
• Ahabaran, Grand Master of the Tontu

Institutions:

• Enchanters' Guild: An order which specializes in the study and development of magically enhanced items for the benefit of Dusmaiji society.
• Sky Watchers: The astronomy guild who, as their name suggests, are responsible for watching the sky for signs and identifying constellations and other celestial bodies.
• Nokora College of Spellcraft: A prestigious school of sorcery that attracts students from all over. Nokora is difficult to both get and stay into as underachieving students are regularly dropped to make room for other applicants. As Nokora's establishment was funded by the Empire it, like most other magic schools, swears its students and staff to the military. Out of all the magic schools within Dusmaiji, Nokora is said to contribute the highest quality mages.
• Owakaya: A massive temple situated in the holy city of Kiakala and one of the marvels of the Dusmaiji Empire. It is believed to have been constructed long before the conquest of Mubarum and still stands as the headquarters of the Arafito faith and its hierarchy. Those on pilgramage seek out the Owakaya to read scriptures that can only be found within its library.
• Tontu: An order of warrior monks who strictly adhere to Arafito. The Tontu are an independent peacekeeping force who mediate any conflicts that may arise between Dusmaiji's ethnic groups. They are only permitted to act within its borders and cannot take part in conflicts on foreign soil. Any Arafitan is allowed to join the Tontu regardless of origin granted they complete the necessary training.

Military:

• Organization: Magic schools such as Nokora pledge their students and faculty to the empire's military as payment for the land they were granted to construct their campuses. This the closest to a standing army that the Empire possesses as the remainder of the forces are levied from tribes or recruited as mercenaries. The Eminent of War raises the levies whenever he is instructed to do so by the Emperor. Tribe Heads who contribute troops usually lead them in battle while operating under the Eminent of War's direct command. Mercenaries who are hired into the forces either remain under their own leaders if they are recruited as a company or sorted into the ranks of a tribe head if they aren't. Overall, the army of the Empire is commanded by the Eminent of War at the Emperor's orders. While the Emperor is the ultimate authority, The Eminent of War is trusted because of his merit and is allowed to interpret orders from the Emperor in a way that he feels will most likely result in success for the Empire.
  
  The Dusmaiji navy is organized differently from the army. As most Dusmaiji tribes specialize in unmounted land combat, there are less who are skilled in sailing and thus the navy is required to be more structured than the army to produce the best possible fleet. Unlike the army there is a clear rank division that exists within the Dusmaiji navy with the Eminent of the Sea at the top. Just like the Eminent of War he answers the Emperor and no one else. Having control of the entire Dusmaiji fleet, it is up to the Eminent of the Sea to guide it not only according to the Emperor's orders but in a way that will keep its casualties to a minimal as finding talent for the navy is harder. Besides commanding the navy the Eminent of Sea is also responsible for deciding the composition of the navy such as the amount of ships, the types of ships, and how crews are organized.
• Troop Total: 20,000 mages from various magic schools are always available. A maximum force of 153,000 (1.5% of population) can be attained through levying.
• Army: A maximum of 113,000 soldiers.
  
  Dusmaiji Infantrymen

  
  
  
  Dusmaiji Skirmishers

  
  
  
  Dusmaiji Riflemen

  
  
  
  Dusmaiji Battlemage

  
• Navy: A maximum of 40,000 personnel.
  
  Ranks and Hierarchy

  • Grand Whale Lord - held by the Eminent of the Sea
  • Senior Whale Lord
  • Whale Lord
  • Under Whale Lord
  • Shark Knight
  • Sworntail
  • Commander
  • Lieutenant

  
  Beneath lieutenant, all other naval personnel are unranked and considered equal in standing as peons. They are derogatorily referred to as "snooks" by ranked personnel.
• Other:
  
  Non-human Troops

  The rights of non-humans within Dusmaiji are restricted and there is little room for them to progress up the social ladder. However, the Dusmaijik military is rather non-discriminatory in comparison to its social structure. Non-humans, while they usually never achieve remarkably high rank, are respected to some degree when they join the Dusmaijik military and are supplied stable residences as payment for their services. This has prompted a considerable amount of them to enlist. However, there are many non-humans who are forcibly drafted nto the Dusmaiji military via levying. These non-humans are usually offered to the Empire by the tribe head that presides over the land which they inhabit as a tactic to conserve their own men, non-humans typically being seen as expendable by the tribe heads when levies are called.
  
  Notable Non-human units
  TBA.
  
  
  Mercenaries

  What cannot be levied is made up for in the hiring of mercenaries, many of whom are foreign. While they are only as loyal as the amount of coin they are paid allows them to be, the Empire makes sure to hire those who are of commendable quality to supplement its forces. Mercenary companies which greatly satisfy the Empire are placed under extended contracts which secure their loyalty.
  
  Within the Dusmaiji military's rankings contracted mercenary companies retain their own hierarchy with their leaders being held in the same regard as tribe heads meaning they answer directly to the Eminent of War. Non-contracted companies or independent mercenaries are placed under the command of a tribe head to supplement their personal forces.
  
  Contracted Mercenary Companies
  TBA.

Strengths:

• Natural Born Fighters: The Dusmaiji infantry is renowned across Albion as tribes begin training their young to fight from the moment they are able to walk. Warriors are taught that retreat is dishonorable and that giving their lives for their nation and brethern is the best way to serve it. A one-on-one fight against a Dusmaiji pikeman will prove exceedingly difficult and a group are likely to overpower foreign troops that are not well prepared to face them.
• Elephant's Fortitude: With the Eminent of Architecture being an exceptionally qualified designer and planner, Dusmaiji structures are resilient and require additional effort to destroy.
• Heat Resistance: As Dusmaiji is a tropical country with the much of its land being desert, its natives are accustomed to high temperatures and dry weather. When fighting under such conditions Dusmaiji troops take longer than normal to succumb to the elements.

Weaknesses:

• Dangerous Wilderness: The Dusmai Desert is already tough enough to cross on its own and much of the jungles are shrouded in mystery. Though travelers must brave these untamed environments to make it to their destination it is highly probable they won't survive. Feral man-eating beasts lurk within Dusmaiji's jungles and roam its savannas while unrelenting, spontaneous sandstorms sweep through the Dusmai Desert. Travelng Dusmaiji without capable protection is suicidal. Trade and communication by land take significantly longer than they would if such obstacles were not present. Uninterrupted travel can only occur during certain periods.
• Ethnic Tension: Dusmaiji is multicultural which has added to its beauty. However, this has come at a price. Its human tribes are far from harmonious. If two tribes are allied then the third is surely a foe. Add the marginalized non-humans into the mix and feuds tend to erupt. While violence among Dusmaijik tribes is forbidden they have found other ways to spite their rivals. Internal political intrigue is detrimental to Dusmaiji's unity as just about any and everyone is seeking the next step up, even if they have to stab their neighbor in the back to progress.

Other:

Fun Facts

• Dusmai translates to "golden sand" in the language of a long extinct tribe. Dusmaiji means "of the golden sand."
• Elephants are sacred animals in Dusmaiji and are seen as cultivators of the land.
• Slavery between tribes in Dusmaiji is forbidden. But, a barely regulated system of indentured servitude does exist for native humans. The enslavement of non-humans, foreigners, and criminals is not explicitly forbidden but is discouraged by the Empire.
• Personal property and ownership are vague concepts in Dusmaiji. Typically, only the upper class retain the right to truly possess their belongings on an individual level (because they have the power to protect them) whereas commoners share their belongings on a community level. This would mean that the pot of one man also belongs to his entire village. The belongings of non-humans and immigrants of Dusmaiji can be seized by the tribe head of the land on which they are occupying as compensation for inhabiting their territory. Such acquistions can be omitted from any taxes that must be paid to the Empire as non-humans and immigrants are not seen as true citizens, thus they are not expected to contribute to its sustainment.

Dusmaijik Caste system

The order of social hierarchy of Dusmaiji is known as Gaku. It is recognized by the majority of the Empire, is ordained by the crown, and to be upheld in any colonies established by the Empire.

• Rha Kasdor (High Kindred) - Dusmaijik humans that are part of a tribe's leading family. Essentially the nobility.
• Kasdor (Kindred) - Native Dusmaijik humans who are not part of a tribe's leading family. The common folk. There exists a sub-class system in this level that is more merit based. If those from a lower primary class level manage to attain one of these sub-classes they are held in higher esteem than others of their respective class but still not on par with those who were born into this class.
  
  • Jihnur (Sanctified) - Those who achieve rank within the Arafito faith. The Tontu are included in this class.
  • Rodalo (Valiant) - The warrior class attained by those who enlist in the military.
  • Momani (Enlightened) - The scholar class attained by those who attend a university.
  • Kabiba (Craftsmen) - Those who are certified as skilled in a particular trade.
• Farba (Familiarized) - This class compries of non-humans inhabitants of foreign descent who are born in the motherland.
• Wurfar (Unfamiliar) - This class comprises of immigrants to the motherland.
• Gatath (Outlander) - A newer class meant to refer to those originating from the New World that have been pooled into the Empire through colonization. Because they are not from Albion or Dusmaiji, they are believed to be furthest removed from what is considered an ideal citizen of the Empire and thus are held in the lowest regard.

Rolls 8

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
10,200,000
Territory Size:
3. Your nation is smaller than average but there's still plenty of territory to work with. While the lack of endless farmland might prove an issue, you do at least enjoy the benefits of relatively small and easily defended borders.
Technology:
4. Adequate modernization, you manage to keep pace with the rest of Albion.
Prevalence of Magic:
4. You have decent amount of magic users with a number of schools ready to teach them.
Government Type:
4. Your nation is ruled by one great emperor with functionally unlimited power. Beneath him is a large bureaucracy, but under this imperial system there is a meritocracy. Your magistrates and administrators have been tested and found competent; therefore, they earned their position unlike some noble that simply inherited it from his father.
Political Stability:
3. There's some mild urban unrest with criminal gangs and corruption, but nothing threatening to overthrow your country.

Economy

Overall Wealth:
6. Opulence and obscene wealth define your nation. Your streets might not be paved with gold, but great monuments, beautiful works of art, and a large variety of public works stand testament to your economic power. Your government of course has the funds to do almost whatever it wants.
Urbanization:
4. Your nation is decently urbanized with the fair balance of towns and rural areas
Agriculture:
4. Your nation has its farmlands, but you aren't blessed with particularly fertile land nor regular rainfall. As such, seasonal famines are a common thing.
Notable Resources:
Silk, iron, marble

Military
Military Structure:
4. A school of battlemages, but little else to serve as a standing army. Levies and mercenaries both utilized during times of war to create an army of average size.
Military Focus
7. Focus on lines of pikemen along with missile troops.
Navy:
5. Decently powerful navy with enough ships and sailors to fight as much you'd like
Military Leadership
3. Generals are pretty competent; however, they are corrupt and play at politics
Military Reputation
3. Many call your forces valorous; others say that they are brave to the point of stupidity.

[Pyromaniacwolf]

Heavy WIP right now, but I want somewhere to store it (plus you fan critique what I've made so far)

The Fenrian Wilderness

Name: The Fenrian Wilderness
Flag/emblem/symbolism:
Demonym: most commonly lycans, fenrian is also used
Description: The Fenrian Wilderness is divided between four tribes that have gained power through different means. Generally these tribes function as almost independent nations but will band together in times of crisis or war and have monthly meetings between the tribe leaders. The tribes themselves generally live in small villages made of fur and lumber. The inhabitants of these villages are generally extremely ferocious and only obey those that display greater ferocity or display some other quality to fear them. Due to this natural ferocity it is not uncommon for lycans to raid nations they are not even at war with, or each other.

The nation has existed for several thousand years in it's current state and has waged war with all of it's neighbours at least once in that time, despite this some lycans are beginning to interact with outsiders more and more outside of simple raidingm

Government: The Fenrian Wilderness is divded into 4 tribes. Each tribe is ruled by chieftain that has fought their way to the top and holds it, albeit not all have actually fought for their rank.
Shadowclaw tribe- A tribe of magic users and fanatics, the Shadowclaw tribe will take in magic users from other tribes and teach them how to control their powers and return them to their tribe. They also tend to teach the magic user more about the lycan faith and on occasion complete radicalize them. Generally the Shadowclaw tribe is one of the most passive tribes and woild rather solve most issues through diplomacy, however if religion becomes a issue they will quickly become the most aggressive and push the other tribes to support them. On the battlefield the Shadowclaw tribe consists of Voidcallers (aka mages and priests) casting fear spells and zealots, who are more than happy to die for their faith. The tribes leader is Vlath, an old,wise and cunning voidcaller who is fearful of the changing (and advancing) world and is currently attempting to unite the tribes under one banner.
The Shadowclaw tribe supplies lycan fur (from lycans that have been skinned for a crime, usually heresy) to the Goldtooth tribe who will trade it to other races.

Goldtooth tribe- A tribe of merchants and slavers. Generally the least aggressive of all the tribes , they are more interested in profit and material wealth than other tribes. In a word, greedy. The race has began refining lumber and lycan furs received from the Shadowclaw tribe, the Goldtooth tribe is currently the only economic power in the Fenria wilderness. Basir is the leader of the Goldtooth tribe and has earned his place through cunning and intellect , he seeks to turn the lycan race from a barely civilised race into a race capable of becoming an economic power. The Goldtooth tribe is generally on good terms with all the tribes due to their slave trade and supply of lumber for tribal villages and weapons.

Bloodfang Tribe-A tribe of ferocious warriors, the Bloodfang tribe is generally what a foreigner imagines of a lycan; ferocious,brutal and generally primitive. The bloodfang hierarchy is based purely on ferocity in combat; a leader only remains chieftain as long as he can hold his place in open combat. The Bloodfang tribe is easily the most aggressive tribe in the Fenrian Wilderness with the majority of the tribe being combat trained and no strangers to real combat leading to vasts amount of this tribes population being called on in times of war. The Bloodfang tribe is led by Grash Bloodfang, a powerful fighter with large ambitions and an even larger ego. He believes that the lycans are powerful enough divided to dominate the continent and hold their own against the Commonwealth.

Silentpaw Tribe- A tribe of hunters and scouts, the Silentpaw tribe known for their skill with bows and stealth, power in their tribe is given to the greatest hunter, whoever leads the most impressive hunt. The tribe often trades their excess leathers and flesh to the goldtooth tribe in exchange for goods they may have earned from other nations through trade. While the Silentpaw tribe is highly active in other nations, it is usually hunting parties chasing game although they do not discriminate between man and beast ; hunting other races is a event for Name Days and Celebrations, a true challenge to test hunters on those days. The Silentpaw Tribe is led by Mexa Silentpaw, a relatively new Mistress of the Hunt who felled a mighty beast in the west on her twenty third Name Day. Mexa is an inexperienced leader but shares Vlath Shadowclaws desire for unity in the region, she is also remarkably generous with game she kills on her hunts sharing it amoung every member of her village and even trading it off to other tribes shortly before winter.
Economy: The Fenrian Wilderness has been, until recent years, an incredibly insignificant economic power. However, due to recent interest from the Goldtooth tribe to began trading with other nations, it has became a notable exporter of high quality lumber mainly caused by the huge quantity of very old forests in the wilderness that have mostly been left in peace for the last several centuries. The nation also exports a variety of furs due to the large populations of wildlife in the wilderness. There is also a far more exotic fur that is exported from the nation that can only be obtained from Fenria. Lycan fur. This fur is generally given to the Goldtooth tribe by the Shadowclaw tribe who commonly use live skinning as a punishment for heresy. Leather is also a common export, again thanks to the large abundance of wildlife in the wilderness.
Metals are generally a rare and valued commodity throughout the Wilderness due to mining being a uncommon practice throughout the nation.

Religion: The denizens of the Fenrian Wilderness generally have a zealous belief in the Trinity of the Void and some tolerance for any denominations, however they view any lycan that does not follow the belief as a traitor and is executed (the method of execution varies from tribe to tribe).
The religion is Polyhenotheistic. They have three gods which they believe were banished from the mortal realm by the younger gods, which they created. Many priests and fanatics have an obsession with returning these gods to their former glory and believe they will be rewarded with eternal life. The three gods are
The World Weaver- The creator of life, the universe and everything. Generally considered the most powerful of the trinity. Created the lycans to be his champion race. Worshiped by all lycans
The Watcher- A being of infinite knowledge that sees all, gave living things their sentience and their senses. Believed to be very passive in it's preferences but is still revered by many lycans , but mainly scouts, merchants and priests
The Warrior-A being of boundless ferocity and bloodlust, found the world that had been created to be slow and boring so he gave the mortal races their personalities, ferocity and determination. Giving the lycans more ferocity than most was to show his favour of them. Followed by most but especially warriors.

Geography:
The Fenrian Wilderness is a vast, rural nation with the only civilization being small tribal villages and religious sites. The majority of the nation is made up of rich forests home to a huge variety of different animals. The north of the nation is tundra, home to a small variety of species that have adapted to the cold conditions, although most tend to remain further south than this. Rivers are not a uncommon site and these rivers never seem to lack fish. The healthy condition of the nation has made agriculture relatively uncommon and the Lycans have hunted for generations with food shortages being reserved for the coldest winter months.

Population: 3,900,000

Demographics
98% Lycan:
20% Goldtooth
15%Shadowclaw
35% Bloodfang
30% Silentpaw

2% other races (the majority of which are slaves)

Notable Locations
Bloodfang Village- Home to Grash Bloodfang and generally home to the largest army and best trainers in the nation. The few blacksmiths in the nation have set up shop here due to its military might.
Bloodfang Keep- Currently one of the only keeps in the Fenrian wilds, it was built several years ago by the Bloodfang and Goldtooth tribe. Relations between the two tribes have been steadily improving ever since. The keep is capable of holding several thousand soldiers at once and is home to the largest Feast Hall in the nation.
Shadowclaw Village- Home to Vlath Shadowclaw and many Voidcallers , the Shadowclaw village is the smallest of the 'capital' tribal villages but still holds a huge amount of influence on villages in the nation and is the main place of training for any lycans gifted in magic.
The Caverns of the Gods- A large cavern system located close to the Shadowclaw village that is used for sermons, sacrifices and blood rituals. The voices of the priests in the cavern seem to echo for an unnaturally long time when their voices are raised.
Goldtooth Village- The largest settlement in the Fenrian Wilderness and home to Basir Goldtooth, compared to other villages its buildings stand tall and it's market is always bustling with activity. In truth it is more a large town than a village.
The Golden Port- The largest port under lycan control, it is located on an island to the north of the Golden Coast (the Fenrian coast) and is home to a relatively modest village, reinforced by Bloodfang guards hired by Basir to guard the port from raiders. The port always has resources on hand in large storage houses constructed further inland to prevent them being easily stolen by Goldtooth architects.
Silentpaw Village- A village built into the great forests of Fenria and home to Mexa Silentpaw. The homes of the lycans here are carved roughly into the huge trees of the forest they inhabit.
The Ageless Forest- A huge forest sprawling with wildlife and trees that have lived for centuries. The Silentpaw village is located towards the centre of this forest.

Personalities of Note:
Vlath Shadowclaw- Leader of the Shadowclaw tribe; an old, wise and cunning lycan and generally considered to be the most powerful voidcaller in the entire nation. He is currently concerned that the Fenrian Wilderness will become obsolete and conquered in the times ahead and is quietly attempting to unite the tribes under one banner so they may defend themselves from any true threats.
Grash Bloodfang- Leader of the Bloodfang tribe; a ferocious and powerful warrior who has killed his way into power, defeating any opponents that have challenged him in single combat with ease and almost always leading raids personally to sate his bloodlust and for the thrill of battle. Grash firmly believes that the tribes separately are more than enough to beat any threat the Wilderness faces. This mixed with his distrust of other races has caused the Bloodfang tribe to become significantly more aggressive in recent decades.
Basir Goldtooth- A greedy but ambitious lycan and ruler of the Goldtooth tribe; Basir wishes to extend the Fenrian Wilderness' influence not through military might, but through the trade of the various resources found in the region. While Basir has worked to build a good relationship with the other tribes of the wilderness, he generally dismisses their own ideals in favour of twisting any situation into benefiting himself.
Mexa Silentpaw-
Institutions:
(Major non-military institutions of the nations, such as legislative bodies, guilds, religious sects)

Military:
Organization: (Professional/militia/levy/..., doctrine, tactics, equipment, though the latter can be put underneath as well, etc.)
Troop Total: (Keep reality and upkeep in mind, e.g. 3% of your population as full-time professional soldiers would be a whole lot. Many seemingly unrelated factors can go into this, including abundance/lack of food and your nation's wealth)
Army:
Navy:
Other: (Such as siege equipment, internal security, important mercenaries, spies, etc.)

Other:
Special traits, remarks, boons and flaws(Here is your chance to decide something unique and important about your nation without basing it on the rolls I gave you. You may have 1 strength that makes you special, 2 strengths and 1 weakness, or 3 strengths and 2 weaknesses. Ask if you're having trouble coming up with something)

Rolls

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
3,900,000
Territory Size:
6. Your nation sprawls across Albion as it dominates the map with its sheer size. But the dog's bark is louder than its bite; there simply aren't enough people to exploit all of your land and its resources, defending your borders or stopping smugglers is probably a futile task, and communications from one end to the other might very well be a major issue. At least you can retreat back almost endlessly when defending your nation, and you can probably count on your enemies lacking the manpower to occupy all of your land.
Technology:
1. Antiquated, the nation stubbornly clings to old methods and ways of life that were established traditions even in the time of their grandfathers. Technologically speaking, they are stuck in past centuries.
Prevalence of Magic:
4. You have decent amount of magic users with a number of schools ready to teach them.
Government Type:
8. Your nation is still a tribal society. The various chieftains or patriarchs of their clans rule individual settlements, and there may or may not even be a central figure that all the others owe fealty to. If there is some sort of high king, he probably wields much less power than a feudal king and your tribes are probably mostly autonomous. Tribes also have a tendency to develop rivalries, so there's a good chance that the occasional bit of infighting cripples your nation as a whole.
Political Stability:
1. Your country is suffering quite a bit of inner turmoil and is on the brink of having an outright rebellion. No doubt your neighbors are aware of this and perhaps looking to exploit your status for their own benefit!

Economy

Overall Wealth:
4. Your nation is rather weak economically, but you're developing. With a rapidly growing economy and likely a transition towards urbanization and industrialization, your people are happy. While you may not be an economic superpower yet, it's looking like you're beginning to enter a golden age that just might catapult you there.
Urbanization:
1. Towns and cities are largely absent for your nation. You might be nomadic or just lack the desire and/or funds to create large enough settlements.
Agriculture:
2. What your nation lacks in the way of farmland is made up for in the sheer bounty of its wilderness. Fishing, hunting, and plant gathering support your population. Unfortunately, this system doesn't support quick population growth or large food surpluses, so gathering food is always something on your peoples' minds.
Notable Resources:
Furs, leather, lumber,

Military
Military Structure:
1. A small number of city guards, constables, and the personal retainers of nobles are the only standing armies. In wartime, vast (albeit seasonal) armies are mobilized via levying the peasants.
Military Focus
5. Emphasis on light infantry and skirmishers.
Navy:
1. Almost nonexistent navy that just serves to transport the army and perhaps ward off rogue pirates
Military Leadership
7. Generals are wealthy citizens that purchased their positions from the government; they are somewhat competent but often inexperienced; decadent
Military Reputation
12. To outsiders you military is seen only as a disciplined and effective force, but to your own people the military is ruthless and oppressive.

[ClocktowerEchos]

Throwing up an WIP just to have something and yes, I did indeed ask for these rolls.
Feedback welcomed!

The Lost Isle of Sartosa WIP

Description:
(A summary of your nation goes here; basics on what's going on and what the country is about. Traditions worthy of note go here, recent history, unique traits,...)

Government:

In short, there is no government of Sartosa as it was wiped away with the waves. Those who either claim noble blood or have managed to murder and politick their way up are in charge of individual clans or or settlements, their reach not extending much beyond their fortified settlements or makeshift castles or shanty towns. In an age past, there was once a king but always such things are a distant memory with many competing for any sort of position of power.

Economy:

To say that the Sartosan economy is in shambles is an understatement as it's practically nonexistent. There are no major industries or resources of note beyond that of raiding and piracy which while the Sartosans are undoubtedly good at, has become their only lifeline. Beyond that, salt making, shipbuilding and prostitution are the only profitable industries on the island. True there are many well preserved artifacts from the ancient world for archaeologists to explore and examine but none are foolish enough to attempt to pierce the fog of Sartosa.

Starvation is common as there are only a few types of food to be found on the island being black corn weed, fungus and grog root. These plants grow wildly at random and are hardly the most pleasing of foodstuffs but they are what is available. Protein is usually some form of fish dragged up or a rat caught in a trap and the more-than-occasional cannibalism. Sea salt is also another thing made in excess, sometimes sold off as salt from other countries as the label of Sartosan is bad for business. Starvation and hunger are major problems as even if there was enough food for everyone, the decadent warlords would have it all for themselves.

The lawless nature of Sartosa however invites other criminals to itself in the form of smugglers which many warlords take advantage of and put taxes on to raise money or supplies. While those who usually come are either mad or brave (or both), they fear not the threat of the law enforcement coming down on them so long they pay their dues.

As one might expect, there is no official coinage of Sartosa. In an age past they had an incredibly strong currency that found use world wide. But like many things, the Thousand Year Flood took it away from them as well. Barter has become the major economic system although some places have their own currency and foreign currency regardless of origin and procurement can find use in Sartosa.

Culture

The men and women of the Lost Isle live in a cutthroat society that has been forced upon them and are truly a people lost in time. Their ways are old, language alien and tradition dated. While in the old world they may have been seen very differently, in this new age they are feared and hated as vicious pirates and revers. Magic has also been damned by most as the cause of the Thousand Year Flood which consumed their civilization and thus practitioners are rare and in hiding. Where once the Sartosans could command the seas at will with magic, they are now at its mercy. It's a popular practice to accuse a rival of witchcraft to try and get them killed by zealous lynch mobs.

Religion:

Once upon a time, the people of Sartosa prayed to a wide pantheon of gods and goddess. Now, they pray to only one out of fear after all the others abandoned them: Stromfel, God of the Ocean and Seas. They pray to him for safe travels, bountiful raids, calm seas and the hope that he will never again drown them out. Every ship has a shrine dedicated to him and making prisoners walk the plank to drown in the deep waters or fed to sharks, his holy beast, is an ancient practice still used today.

It should come as no surprise that because of this, much of Sartosan folklore as become sea-related. Where there was once an angel of death, there was now a cruel man aboard a cursed demonic ship who drags souls of the dead into the underworld. Wandering spirits now not only become ghosts, but posses animals and objects; the soul of men trap themselves within sharks and sea beasts, becoming Sons of Stromfel while those of women attach themselves to the figureheads of drowned ships and become vengeful banshees of the sea.

Sartosans were once masters of a type of magic known as the Lore of the Oceans, able to control it and summon its wrath upon command. Once studied in great schools and covens, such magics are revealed and often blamed as the cause of the Thousand Year Flood. As such, all of its schools have been turned to dust and its practitioners hunted or in hiding.

Geography:

(Jungle, grassland, mountains, etc. Be sure to identify where on the map you are, preferably by posting a clip of the region you wish to occupy, keeping in mind the relative size of your territory as was given in your rolls. We may have to move you around to make it work.)

Demographics:

The people of Sartosa (Sartosans or “Fogmen” informally) have been changed by the Thousand Year Flood a as such have a much greater affinity with water and are notably tougher and more resilient than normal humans. But the most damning thing about them is the near perpetual magical mist that surrounds them. A sole Sartosan will only generate a small, barely visible mist but the thickness and size of the haze will dramatically and exponentially increase as more and more Sartosans congregate. Beyond that they have far larger lung capacities, slight webbing on their hands and feet as well as a transparent second eyelid that allows them to see underwater with great clarity.

With a total population of barely 1.3 million, they are one of the smallest demographics in the world and a far cry compared to the many millions they once had in years past. While some may call the Sartosans a dying race, the Sartosans are not going to die without a fight. As if they really had any other option. On their island, the vast majority of the people are Sartosans minus a small fraction of other races, usually smugglers or pirates who made Sartosa their home to escape their native police. The natives of the island are also not fond of leaving their island so seeing them anywhere else in the world but on the seas is a rare sight indeed.

Notable Locations
(Give us some info about your capital, other important cities, maybe where your forts and colonies (if you have any) are located)

Personalities of Note
(Your ruler, perhaps your highest military officers, generally just use this space to help us keep track of your POV characters)

Institutions:
(Major non-military institutions of the nations, such as legislative bodies, guilds, religious sects)

Military:

The Sartosan “army” is barely an army to many who just see them as bandits and hooligans with terrible quality armor. However, while the raiding fleets may be small and use simple rafts and ships, Sartosans are still the master sailors they were in ages yore. Fully capable of sustaining themselves on open ocean and move nimbly on ships, they like to overwhelm one ship at a time after isolating ships or scattering fleets. The only way to ensure that you are not attacked by Sartosan Pirates is by travelling in large, expensive fleets with ships that are all so close together you can travel between them with ease. The alternative is to hire the very same Sartosan pirates to protect you as well; world class protection and sailors at a price that would make most mercenary captains faint.

There is a comparatively insane number of Sartosans in the “military” if not out of necessity with about 10% of the population counting themselves as active pirates or warriors. Even the basic civilian population has been hardened by infighting and civil war. Becoming a raider is often not only a sure fire way of quickly ascending the social ladder, but also gives you a far better chance of actually getting fed making it extremely appealing to the point most warlords don’t need to worry about willing recruits.

In terms of strategy, the element of fear is a very prevalent one as the fog produced by the Sartosans in combination with their reputation can cause even veteran sailors to get jump and start firing their weapons into the fog that always follows them. They will eventually become tired and paranoid, not knowing what is in the fog as the war rafts and boats of the Sartosans form a circle around them. Needless to say, this has worked wonders and is perhaps the one of the reasons why Sartosa still stands today for the loot brought back sustains the island and its reputation and fog will shatter the nerves of even the hardest of souls.

Contrasting their skills, the equipment of the Sartosans are laughable. Scrap wooden armor and crude gear is the norm as anything that can provide protection is use. Cooking pot shields, sea beast scale armor, human leather, nothing goes to waste. Weapons are equally as diverse and crude as weapons ranging from crudely forged blades to wooden clubs. Fishermen also often find work as pirates with both their nets and their harpoons which make for dead ranged weapons. Skilled harpooners are said to be able to snipe ship captains and lookouts from kilometers away and enough of them can even slow down large merchant ships.

Those above the lowly revers and pirates however are dramatically better armed. While still just as crude, commanders wear various metal armor, often looted from battles and ships thus also serving as their battle records. They go by many names such as Pirate Lords or Sea Chieftains, but they are the ones in command of settlements and clans and are more often than not mildly incompetent are anything but personal combat, meaning that it's often their equally as exotically named bodyguards to command the warbands. The decedent bastards often pile on made up titles to enrich their own egos. Thankfully, they can pick bodyguards reasonably well so their warbands aren’t totally dead in the water.

Their crude but resourceful nature extents to their ships as well. Although they often look like ramble shackle rafts and crude canoes held together with rope and hope (or mostly hope in some cases), they have a hidden level of quality to them which many outsiders can’t recognize at a glance. Masterfully well balanced and extremely nimble, their small size grants them terrific movement. Rare large ships are still built in the old trireme-style and are just as nimble as their smaller cousins and boast rams that are effective even today.

While artillery is rare, it’s not uncommon especially among the wealthier clans and gangs. Catapults and ballistas are popular and ancient if not effective weapons being remarkably easy to build in contrast to more modern cannons. Such engines of war are also often mounted on ships with the leviathan hunting Harpoon Great Ballista being the most popular and useful.

Other:

Pro - They are without question the best sailors, ship makers and water-borne warriors in the world and on sea even if they don't look like it.
Con - THEIR EVERYTHING ELSE

My Rolls:

Rolls 13

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
1,300,000
Territory Size:
1. Your nation is but a speck upon the map; perhaps it is an island or small archipelago, or perhaps it's just a tiny swathe of land too small to draw the attention of any would-be conquerors.
Technology:
1. Antiquated, the nation stubbornly clings to old methods and ways of life that were established traditions even in the time of their grandfathers. Technologically speaking, they are stuck in past centuries.
Prevalence of Magic:
1. Magic is a taboo to your nation with its practitioners living in hiding
Government Type:
10. Your country is in something of an anarchy. There is no central government to speak of, probably because it recently crumbled. For now you're in quite the quagmire and regions might be tempted to splinter off and form their own new nations. But hey, at least this gives you the opportunity to reestablish order and found a new government of your choosing!
Political Stability:
1. Your country is suffering quite a bit of inner turmoil and is on the brink of having an outright rebellion. No doubt your neighbors are aware of this and perhaps looking to exploit your status for their own benefit!

Economy

Overall Wealth:
1. Your nation is very poor. Perhaps you've been ravaged by constant war or plague, or perhaps your people lack the resources or drive to create the foundations for a solid economy. In any case, homelessness and hunger are issues for many people. At least your people are used to this sorry state.
Urbanization:
1. Towns and cities are largely absent for your nation. You might be nomadic or just lack the desire and/or funds to create large enough settlements.
Agriculture:
4. Your nation has its farmlands, but you aren't blessed with particularly fertile land nor regular rainfall. As such, seasonal famines are a common thing.
Notable Resources:
None. You're dirt poor.

Military
Military Structure:
2. Small core of elite soldiers, supplemented by some mercenaries in wartime. Overall not a very large force.
Military Focus
5. Emphasis on light infantry and skirmishers.
Navy:
1. Almost nonexistent navy that just serves to transport the army and perhaps ward off rogue pirates
Military Leadership
4. Generals are incompetent; their title is often appointed rather than earned; largely decadent
Military Reputation
10. Other nations look disparagingly at your army, thinking it little more than a rabble of bandits and pirates.

[Drunken Conquistador]

Grand State of Neziri-WIP

Name: Grand State of Neziri
Demonym: Nezirir
Description:

A rather large nation located on the continent's north west reaches, the Grand State of Neziri is a relatively young nation. Established a mere 400 years ago with the Annulment of Tar-Mirian, which saw the dissolution of the ancient Arlamanthine Empire and its absorption into the Revanese Republic, thus creating the Grand State.

The Grand State was based on the notion that while a single simply wasn't fit to hold absolute power, neither were the mobs fit to have any say on the ruling of the nation. So a compromise was reached, in which only the most able and skilled were to be given the chance. Or in short, the nobles would rule without having to bother with obeying some king or giving voice to the masses.

Needless to say, the lack of a true central power to keep the aristocracy in check has caused problems for the Grand State. Civil wars, popular revolts and simple political gridlock have time and again wrecked havoc on the nation, almost bringing it to complete ruin several times in the past. The most learned among the scholars now dreadfully point out how close the nation is to a major crisis should the popular unrest and economic crisis not be dealt with effectively.

Due to the Arlamanthine's status as a magocracy, the Grand State enforces a strict policy of persecution against magic and its users. The Saganid Order, a militant group under direct Senate supervision, is tasked with hunting down and exterminating witches, wizards and the stain of magic inside Nezir.

Government: The Grand State of Neziri is ruled by the Senate, in theory created to ensure that no single man could hold absolute power and return the land to the days of Imperial tyranny, the Senate has been dominated by the interests of the aristocracy ever since its inception. To be eligible for a chair, one must not only come from a established noble family but also own sizable material assets. Official ruling power lays with two consuls elected for a year long term. And in times of crisis, the Senate can appoint an Autocrat with almost unlimited powers.

Below the Senate there's a well established bureaucracy that is tasked with running the day to day affairs of the nation. More often than not, however, these organs are essentially dominated by whatever landlord or merchant prince has the most influence in the city or province. This also translates to Senate appointments, such as provincial governors and military commands.

Economy: Theoretically speaking, the Grand State is large enough to have a diversified economy, natural resources are many and abundant, the land is fertile and its population vast. Reality often does not corresponds to theory however, and currently the nation is experiencing economic recession.

In more general terms, agriculture and forestry are the driving engines of the Nezirir economy. Fruits, lumber and incense are the most renowned export goods of the Grand State, though its size and population means that other sectors are not entirely underdeveloped. Or wouldn't if not for the ongoing recession.

Religion: The current Neziri pantheon was born as a result of the religious policies of the old Arlamanthine Empire, as its hosts subjugated land after land, the Emperors of old sought to smooth over differences by officially absorbing foreign gods into the Arlamanthine Pantheon. Either as new minor deities or simply declaring them different aspects of existing ones. Over the centuries this has evolved into a system where the same gods are worshiped in different ways depending on what part of the State one visits. Which has also led to the rise of some tensions across the realm, as this religious diversity breeds tension between the different temples and congregations.

This lack of centralized doctrine has also led to the creation of many mystery cults all over the realm. Syncretic and secretive religious schools whose purpose is to attain true knowledge of the gods. They are tolerated, if only because the aristocracy tends to consider them a fun hobby, though the local spirits, renowned heroes of the past and ancestors are also widely worshiped through the entire length of Nerziri. With many of the oldest great houses claiming descent from a mythical hero or godly ancestor.

In general, however, there are several major gods who are worshiped

Geography:
Waiting on map

Population: 13 600 000

Demographics

Humans compose the bulk of the State's population. With minority populations composed of members of several races. Either imported populations from the days of the old Empire or native peoples that were conquered and assimilated long ago.

Culturally speaking, the people tend to be mostly homogeneous. The old Mage-Emperors pursued a strong assimilation policy on their new conquests. Imposing their culture over the conquered peoples while at the same time adopting whatever concepts and ideas interested them. Over the centuries, this has served to coalesce the many differing cultural identities into a single culture. Of course, the sheer size of the nation means that regional variations exist, they still hold most of the same principles.

Capital among them are the ideas of Order and Duty. The gods created the world as an orderly place, where everyone and everything has its place and its role. Knowing and accepting one's role in this order is paramount. For just like a peasant must obey and bow before his lord, so must his lord act as befitting his own lordly duties and ensure his subjects are cared for and that he rules and lives as an example of justice and fairness. Otherwise he has proven himself undeserving of his position.

Mages, however, play with powers and forces that are reserved solely to the gods and their chosen. That's reason enough for them to be persecuted. However, said power also always ends up corrupting them, making magic-wielders stray from their place in the world and seek to rise beyond their station, challenging the gods themselves.

Notable Locations
(Give us some info about your capital, other important cities, maybe where your forts and colonies (if you have any) are located)

Personalities of Note
(Your ruler, perhaps your highest military officers, generally just use this space to help us keep track of your POV characters)

Institutions:
(Major non-military institutions of the nations, such as legislative bodies, guilds, religious sects)

Military:

Organization: Instead of fielding a central army, the Senate bestows the authority of maintaining armies upon a chosen group of Senators, while provincial governors are also allowed to look to the defense of their lands. Essentially allowing the formation of vast private armies with very little state oversight.

Despite this lack of oversight, there's not that much variation between the different hosts of Nerziri. One of the results of a rather homogeneous culture is that in general the people fight in much the same way, while blacksmiths and others tend produce similar equipment no matter where you find yourself in the State.

Most variations comes from the elite regiments fielded by the grandees. Which are frankly the only noteworthy aspect about the Nerzirir armed forces. These retainers are a direct reflection of the Senator's own splendor and power. As such they always go to great lengths to make sure their retainers are always the best dressed, trained and armed.

Troop Total: (Keep reality and upkeep in mind, e.g. 3% of your population as full-time professional soldiers would be a whole lot. Many seemingly unrelated factors can go into this, including abundance/lack of food and your nation's wealth)
Army:
Navy:
Other: (Such as siege equipment, internal security, important mercenaries, spies, etc.)

Other:
Amazing feats of engineering:Whether it is building colossal marble temples to the gods or embarking in more practical enterprises such as paved roads or massive irrigation projects, Nezirir engineers and architects have no equal among the civilized lands.
The Breadbasket:The lands of the Grand State are among the most fertile of the continent. Coupled with good weather and skilled specialists, Nezirir is a powerhouse when it comes to agriculture.
The illusion of authority:Despite all the pomp and protocol of official state functions and flowery legal codes, the Senate has only as much power as the Senators and other grandees allow it to possess. The lack of a strong central authority has always been a constant in Nezirir, and so have corruption and nepotism. After all, what can the Senate do besides bow to the interests of the upper class?
Unrest:Economic recession, blatant government corruption alongside racial, religious and ethnic tensions have conspired to create an impending storm. So far the Senate has managed to keep things under control, but even a single spark may set the whole thing ablaze.
The Stain of Magic:Originally formed out of disparate groups of outlaws and rebel slaves fighting against the Arlamanthine mage-lords, the Saganid Order has had 400 years to hone their skills in the art of witch hunting. As it stands, they are perhaps, one of the last Nezirir institutions unaffected by the growing crisis, acting as part Inquisition and part secret police, as long as the state maintains its support for their anti-magic efforts, the Order sees no reason to involve itself in the nest of vipers that is Nezirir politics

@Drunken Conquistador

Rolls 10

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
13,600,000
Territory Size:
5. Your nation is "blessed" with a significantly larger than average amount of land. While you may have a great deal of opportunities to utilize both your ample farmlands and wilderness, your borders are hard to defend and your settlements are spread out which can impede communications.
Technology:
4. Adequate modernization, you manage to keep pace with the rest of Albion.
Prevalence of Magic:
1. Magic is a taboo to your nation with its practitioners living in hiding
Government Type:
12. Your nation is an oligarchy. It needn't necessarily be aristocratic or plutocratic; the main defining feature is that there is no one individual that holds supreme power; rather, there might be a council of elders or a senate.
Political Stability:
2. Your people are growing increasingly discontent, but so far it hasn't boiled over to the point of violence. Or if it has, your government has found a way to suppress it before it erupted into anything major.

Economy

Overall Wealth:
3. Your nation was once in good enough shape, but recent events have caused a large recession and now your economy is shrinking. If this isn't resolved soon, major issues will arise. The people are used to a higher standard of life than they are currently experiencing, and as food supplies contract there may be mass starvation and the collapse of industry, commerce, or even government.
Urbanization:
4. Your nation is decently urbanized with the fair balance of towns and rural areas
Agriculture:
9. Your nation relies heavily upon orchards and fruit plantations. Coconuts, dates, or perhaps even bananas are your main crops. For some reason all this fruit seems to make your sailors a lot less likely to get scurvy.
Notable Resources:
Citrus, lumber, incense

Military
Military Structure:
8. Powerful nobles or merchants maintain private armies even in times of peace. These are effective and don't cost the central government any money, but aren't terribly reliable as they owe their loyalty to their masters rather than the nation itself.
Military Focus
9. Army centered around a small group of elites supported by a large bulk of troops.
Navy:
1. Almost nonexistent navy that just serves to transport the army and perhaps ward off rogue pirates
Military Leadership
2. Generals rose to their positions through experience and battlefield exploits; competent, but also decadent
Military Reputation
11. Your military hasn't done much to earn a reputation and is not particularly renowned.

Very much a WIP. If someone could help me with the military aspect I would appreciate.

As you can see, I was kinda aiming for a Republican HRE-Style thing with this nation

@Drunken Conquistador

Just reposting what I got so far

[Cyclone]

@CycloneCan you post a link to a bigger resolution map please? I can't see the numbers clearly on this one.

BTW, these claims are NPC nations or our nations?

@Medjedovic

I thought that I did upload the full map? In any case, something might have went wrong. Check the territorytalk channel on Discord to see the full map.

Those are all player claims.

[Chairman Stein]

I'd like to be put on the waiting list if that's possible!

[Skylar]

Reiterating my interest and am working on my nation sheet. Will post when able, looking forward to this game!

[Brithwyr]

Sup, my dewds?

[Zealous Blade]

I believe I have the essentials of my nation complete with minor details left to add. However, I would like to know if there are any major revisions that should be made before I declare myself finished with it. Thanks in advance.

[mifune]

im still game. working on my sheet too.

[Cyclone]

@Pirate has requested a full reroll, and here it is.

Rolls 26

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
8,000,000
Territory Size:
5. Your nation is "blessed" with a significantly larger than average amount of land. While you may have a great deal of opportunities to utilize both your ample farmlands and wilderness, your borders are hard to defend and your settlements are spread out which can impede communications.
Technology:
4. Adequate modernization, you manage to keep pace with the rest of Albion.
Prevalence of Magic:
3. You have a fair amount of magic proficiency but relatively few users.
Government Type:
12. Your nation is an oligarchy. It needn't necessarily be aristocratic or plutocratic; the main defining feature is that there is no one individual that holds supreme power; rather, there might be a council of elders or a senate.
Political Stability:
6. You enjoy the benefit of having a serene and peaceful nation. There's barely any crime and you don't have a rebellion brewing, so rejoice!

Economy

Overall Wealth:
4. Your nation is rather weak economically, but you're developing. With a rapidly growing economy and likely a transition towards urbanization and industrialization, your people are happy. While you may not be an economic superpower yet, it's looking like you're beginning to enter a golden age that just might catapult you there.
Urbanization:
5. A significant larger than average portion of your population lives in cities which makes you highly productive. On the other hand you have only a few farmers and the ails of medieval urban life hits you the hardest.
Agriculture:
7. With mighty rivers, vast lakes, and/or a sizeable coast on the bountiful seas, your people primarily rely upon fishing for their food. As such, your port cities are unique in that they don't necessarily depend on the countryside to feed them at all.
Notable Resources:
Fish, olive oil, iron

Military
Military Structure:
1. A small number of city guards, constables, and the personal retainers of nobles are the only standing armies. In wartime, vast (albeit seasonal) armies are mobilized via levying the peasants.
Military Focus
6. Army focuses on ranged attacks in negligence of melee and shock troops.
Navy:
4. Powerful marine tradition with lots of transports and soldiers trained to fight on the seas
Military Leadership
5. Generals are somewhat competent; competitive; mixture of hereditary nobles and soldiers that rose to the rank through battlefield exploits
Military Reputation
2. Your soldiers are renowned for their honor.

@BingTheWing

As we had a dropout and you were first on the waiting list, I'll offer you a set of rolls as well. Hopefully you're still interested!

Rolls 27

Rolls

Basic Demographics & Government Info
Population:
9,400,000
Territory Size:
2. Your nation is certainly small and could use some breathing room. Land is an expensive and highly sought after commodity here.
Technology:
6. Pioneers of technology, you might not yet be at the overall level of the Commonwealth but your inventive people develop many new technologies as we speak. In certain sectors, your innovations might be paving the way.
Prevalence of Magic:
2. Magic is rare and might be limited to a special heritage or you're just unlucky in its distribution.
Government Type:
3. Your society is a feudal monarchy. Quite typical, there is a king who inherited the throne from his father, and then there are all manner of other aristocrats: dukes and barons and knights all swear fealty to one another in exchange for control of land, all in a complicated system of legal obligations...
Political Stability:
4: While crime and corruption are still an issue, your people are largely content.

Economy

Overall Wealth:
5. Your nation has a solid and rather stable economy. You have the means to finance most of the projects that your government wants to undertake, and most of your people enjoy a good standard of living.
Urbanization:
4. Your nation is decently urbanized with the fair balance of towns and rural areas.
Agriculture:
9. Your nation relies heavily upon orchards and fruit plantations. Coconuts, dates, or perhaps even bananas are your main crops. For some reason all this fruit seems to make your sailors a lot less likely to get scurvy.
Notable Resources:
Citrus, cloth, small deposits of gold

Military
Military Structure:
7. Relatively large noble warrior caste. Very effective, quick to mobilize, and fairly numerous, but difficult to replace if they suffer heavy losses.
Military Focus
9. Army centered around a small group of elites supported by a large bulk of troops.
Navy:
3. Average navy, has limited force projection capability
Military Leadership
2. Generals rose to their positions through experience and battlefield exploits; competent, but also decadent
Military Reputation
5. Your military is ruthless. They rarely take prisoners, and what captives survive don't often return home in one piece.

[Cyclone]

In other news, I've been meaning to finish my own sheet and give feedback on you guys' but work has been keeping me busy and lately I've been falling behind the deadlines I try to set for myself :c

In any case, I hope you can forgive my relative quietness and the slow pace over these past few days. Know that I've skimmed over most sheets but still fully intend to give feedback sometime in the near future.

I believe I have the essentials of my nation complete with minor details left to add. However, I would like to know if there are any major revisions that should be made before I declare myself finished with it. Thanks in advance.

@Zealous Blade

Since you asked, I looked at yours first. Nothing needs major revisions; in fact you have my compliments because that's one of the best nation sheets I've ever seen. Good work sir, your sheet has the honor of being the first one to be officially accepted. I look forward to seeing your empire IC!

[BingTheWing]

@Cyclone I have like the most average country ever lmao

[Mao Mao]

Sadly, I have lost interested to keep going on my sheet. Someone can replace me and get good rolls (hopefully).