Brief Nation History The nobility of Dalatrum believe that status and appearance are as important as owning tons of money. The Dalatrum culture is renowned for its infighting, with every family engaging on some level in what’s known as the Grand Game, or simply The Game. It's a term applied to the politics and machinations of the nobles, political official, and even rulers of Dalatrum. The politics is an incredibly complicated "game" or "dance" of intrigue, seduction, ambition and scandal, an approach to politics, high culture and morality that is quintessentially from Dalatrum. The political and familial infighting that characterizes the Game is common in the country.
The lower classes are believed by the nations beyond Dalatrum to resent the Game that ostensibly keeps them demeaned. However, most peasants desire to ascend as well, and the vain hope of accruing a generous patron or sufficient funds to gain a title of worth makes them surprisingly accepting of the Game's excesses. It is much less of a meritocracy than it appears, however, and the Game frequently sorts the wheat of Dalatrum society from the chaff.
The nobles helped shaped the small country of Dalatrum grow strong enough to face off against The Claji Federation in 1736. The war grew longer and longer as both sides were gathering and losing grounds until Dalatrum's military launched a deadly attack on Claji's capital, burning it until it was reduced to ashes. With the President dead, Claji's Vice President surrendered the country to Dalatrum and shortly after, they annexed the country. Then, they changed the name to The United Kingdoms of Dalatrum and Claji.
Government Dalatrum is a constitutional monarchy, where the ruler is restricted by the Constitution of Dalatrum. They are tough on what kind of powers the royal family is able to have. They are only able to to consulted, advise, and warn parliament when there's an important matter going on. They can't even declare war without parliament's approval and the majority of them are against another war. Parliament would rather focus on expanding Dalatrum's colonial empire than going to war. Because of that, they are very friendly with most of the nations in the world.
History: A sleeping giant, with age-old traditions and ways of doing things. Here, the feudal way of life remains so entrenched in society that only until recently have they begun to slowly become undone. The serfs are as tied to the land as cattle, and with almost as few rights. To survive, the Commonwealth has always required a strong hand to control and hold it. Now, however, The Boletarian Commonwealth is changing, awakening. It is beginning to look outwards, towards the best that the rest of the world has to offer in terms of ideas, culture and might. These things must be introduced carefully however, to avoid the ills of free-thinking and what might befall it.
A nation long lost within itself and it's conservative and traditionalist views, the Commonwealth would only gain notoriety on a more international stage in the late 18th century during the rule of King Damir the Architect. Through a number of successful wars the King expanded the Commonwealth into a much larger empire which would become a major power of the Old World. Damir I is also credited for leading the cultural revolution that replaced some of the traditionalist and medieval social and political systems that were still in place, some of which still are, with ones that were deemed more modern and scientific by the other major powers of the realm. During his reforms, Damir saw the reformation of the government into an Autocracy and the modernization of the Boletarian Army, with arms produced by foreign nations. On his death in the early 18th century, his firstborn son, Prince Vitomir would claim the throne.
During King Vitomir's reign, the nation saw the widely accepted reforms of his father slow down, but an increase in it's military expansion. The new King, enamored by warfare and soldiery oversaw the increase of the Boletarian army into the largest the realm had ever seen, and led the Commonwealth into several wars with it's neighbors, resulting in more land being claimed under the Commonwealth's banner and consolidating the border which still marks Boletarian land today. However the King's reign would come to an end in 1832 when he was assassinated whilst observing a military display, the assassin and their employers are still unknown.
That was 4 years ago, now Damir's younger brother, King Alorik II rules. A widely untested king who has managed thus far to successfully keep the country, it's nobles and it's wide ethnicity together. A king who is rumored to be something of free-thinker with interests in soldiering much like his brother and a modernized kingdom. A dangerous combination. However, in it's current state Boletaria is in a poor position and despite it's title as a major power severely lacks in many things, the land is severely lacking in many industrial resources bar land for farming which forms the main production of the Commonwealth, keeping it's large population and army fed. The nation's industry is in shambles, more people work in the farms and fields than the cities and it's factories. For Boletaria to claim it's true potential changes will have to be made, lest it becomes history.
Government: An old nation with old ideas. In a realm where kings rule their domains uncontested. The Commonwealth is one such nation, ruled by an Absolute Monarchy, the Veliko Dynasty has ruled Boletaria for five centuries. The current ruler is King Alorik II, who only recently has claimed the throne. However, rumors court the idea that this man is something of a free-thinker and looks to the new ideas and cultures of the rest of the modern world for inspiration.
Population: A large and populous country, The Commonwealth is home to 73 million subjects. (9 Points)
Martial Prowess: The Commonwealth has an army of 640,000 men that fight moderately well. (8 Points)
Cultural Unity: A nation of multi-ethnic yet Homogeneous people. Holds political claims on the Kingdom of Vressia and the Principality of Sordogne, considering the multi-ethnic standing of the Commonwealth. (6 Points)
Navy: 9 Third Rates, 6 Second Rates, 2 First Rates.
Colonies: No colonies belong to the Commonwealth. (0 Points)
Kingdom of Nehelenia - Neutral/Trade Partners - Arguably the most industrious nation in the known world. Nehelenia produce forms a large amount of Boletaria's resources not native or in abundance within it's own land. The maritime empire is of great interest to the new king, who wishes to view just to what extent this country has modernized.
Imperium of Skeptoni - Neutral/High tensions - The recent conflict with the Duchy of Fulric on the side of the Grand Kingdom of Schulstein has put the Commonwealth at odds with the Imperium. War is expected to break out between the two nations over the country.
Oslad Federation - Friendly/Minor Tensions - With cultural and religious ties to the Oslad Federation. The Federation is viewed favorably by the King, who wishes to increase relations. However, minor tensions have arose over the recent Osladian-Ville War of 1815, which ended with the Commonwealth's rival of Ville being turned into a client state under the Federation.
Empire of Zellon - Neutral - No good or ill is wished towards the Empire of Zellon.
Relations with Regional Powers:
United Kingdoms of Dalatrum - Neutral - No good or ill is wished towards the United Kingdom of Dalatrum.
Kingdom of Vatannia -Neutral - Viewed not negatively, but unfavorably by the Boletarian Commonwealth. This kingdom is home to a religion and government unlike it's own, which places them as a potential threat in spreading their beliefs and ways of governing to it's neighbors and throwing the ills of free-thinking upon the Commonwealth, ills made evident by the wars of the past within Vatannia itself.
Sanguine Empire -Neutral/Trade Partners - The second largest state within the Old World, and arguably the most backwards. The Empire is viewed with respect by the Commonwealth as a guard against the East and by the fact that in part they share the same faith of Glavidian Orthodoxy. The nation has also impressed King Alorik II with it's recent statement supporting the King of Murelia in the recent Jarelian Independence Crisis, while powers considered grander than itself cowered away in indecision.
Kingdom of Anvegad - Neutral - A rising military power in the north-west and a neighbor of the Boletarian Commonwealth. The Kingdoms Military Academy is renowned and a source for many a Boletarian General's knowledge in warfare. The kingdom is viewed with respect and worthy of such, with it's well trained military and artillery. The Commonwealth seeks increased relations with this particular nation.
In the year of 1778 the region of Skeptoni was made up of city states all apart of a league of nations known as "The Konfødererede". The Konfødererede did protect the region from external threats well enough and internal struggles were rather unheard of mostly due to the fact that the leaders and the general population of the region all got along pretty well without many issues. The house of Skaneg weren't exactly the most humble of families and had ambition for more power. The brilliant young leader Herlad Skaneg at only the age of 19 years old had begun his life long goal of taking control of the region along with its surrounding areas and rule as Keiser.
Herlad began by forming alliances with other powerful houses of the regions, courting their daughters, impressing their sons, bribing the sleazy officals and minor nobles. Soon enough Herlad's ears and influence were all around the entire region. By then most of the houses in the region unoffically served Herald and respected his power, and even feared it. In 1793 the house of Knýtlinga a rival of Herald's that had resisted his control over the region and one of the only remaining regional powers that could match him in wealth, army size, and influence had become infuriated over the death of its house head King Anders, they foolishly accused Herald of poisoning him and declared war. The young, overconfident, and stupid son of King Anders has inherited his father's position. He moronically declared war onto Herald Skaneg but then quickly realized he didn't actually know how to lead an army, administrate a kingdom, or how to handle real power. As you can imagine the war ended quickly in Herald's favor and immediately solidified his power over the region.
With little protest from the other houses of the region Herald declared himself Keiser of Skeptoni. At age 34 Herlad had successfully ruled over the region as Keiser. Although the other houses at the time hadn't protested to Herald ruling over them they did get disgruntled and annoyed that they now had someone to serve. Instead of Herald quickly continuing his expansion like he planned at first he decided to remain in the region to solidify his power and make good with his new vassals. By 1803 Herald at age 59 had made his power a reality, vassals served him loyally, peasents loved him and did their duties for him, he had even started a family with his wife Anna. He had a son named Ragnar, and two twin daughters named Aimi and Kari.
Government: Absolute Monarchy. Landmass:imgur.com/z0xabnJ Population: 35,000,000 (5 Points) Martial Prowess: (9 Points) Cultural Unity: (1 Point) Navy: 30 Third Rates, 20 Second Rates, 11 First Rates (10 Points) Colonies: (0 Points)
Foreign Relations
Nehelenia - Potential Rival: Although we don't have any bad relations with them they could potentially be a rival in our efforts to strengthen our own nation.
Kunenia - Neutral: Although they appear to be under the influence of Nehelenia we would like to have a stronger influence over them as well as a strong alliance.
Bolterian Commonwealth - Neutral/Trade Partners: A clumsy giant that will most likely fall sooner or later for better or worse, 73 million people live in this commonwealth and the world lacks in loyal men not ambitious ones. The Skeptoni people have no strong feelings one way or another about the Commonwealth.
Vitannia - Neutral: Nothing to really worry about, they could be an opposition trade wise but that is a problem for another day.
Fulric - Friendly: Although we are friendly with the entire nation we have quite the bond with their southern citizens and may want to more fully integrate them into our own nation.
Tangaria - Neutral: Our neighbors the Western Tangarians divided from us only by the Aegir Channel (Channel in between Skeptoni and Tangaria) have always been in close contact due to our ancestors being always at the forefront of naval technology and sailing to their borders trading with them or other business. Because of this it may not be totally uncommon if you see a Tangarian who looks more Skeptoni then Tangaria.
Herlad Skaneg Position: Keiser of Skeptoni and head of the Skaneg Dynasty. Age:59 DOB: January 18th 1777 - Personality: Strategist, Courteous, Ambitious, Proud. Appearance: Light brown hair, blue eyes, strong, elderly.
Ragnar Skaneg Position: Eldest son of Herlad Skaneg and heir to his throne. Age: 19 DOB: January 27 1817 - Personality: Intelligent, Ambitious, Proud, Just.
Anna Munsö Position: Keiseress of Skeptoni and wife to head of the Skaneg Dynasty Herald Skaneg. Age: 53 DOB: September 2nd 1771 - Personality: Patient, Kind, Determined, Gentle. Appearance: Golden blonde hair, blue eyes, beautiful, young looking for her age.
Aimi Skaneg Position: Eldest daughter of Herald Skaneg Age: 16 DOB: November 10th 1820 - Personality: Strong willed, determined, proud , wild. Appearance: Long dirty blonde hair, blue eyes, beautiful, happy.
Kari Skaneg Position: Youngest child of Herald Skaneg Age: 16 DOB: November 10th 1820 - Personality: Quiet, kind, deceptive. Appearance: Long dirty blonde hair, blue eyes, beautiful.
Ásatrú - Despite no official religion being declared the majority of people in Skeptoni follow Ásatrú their own kind of Norse Paganism, little is known about the religion to foreigners but those who practice it are very devoted.
The people who follow this religion are extremely tolerant of other religions due to Ásatrú being tied to the lands from which they came from and don't expect foreigners coming to the region to adopt it.
Brief Nation History: The Oslad Federation is a creation of the last forty years. With the industrial revolution across the Old World came new ideas and philosophies about ethnicity, monarchy, and ideology. One of these new ideas was the brain child of a Glavidian Patriarch by the name of Boroslav Utrich; the idea of a united Osladian nation, no longer divided by the four ethnic groups that faced constant conflict in the region. Father Boroslav saw that, while divided, any of the current great powers of the Old World could overrun the fighting states and all of Oslad would face oppression by another Great Power. The only solution, in his mind, was a united Oslad under a monarch and parliament that restricted said monarch's power and kept balance between the warring culture groups. Boroslav took these ideas to the written form and the first manuscripts of "The Osladian Dilemma" was born. By 1806 the pamphlet spread to the intellectual circles in Modvona, Holsidan, Autrina, and Yugorvik, and soon 'Pan-Osladianism' ignited like a kindled flame. Pan-Osladianism became a growing idea among the Glavidian Priesthood, Pacifists, and the slowly growing Liberal movement especially within Autrina and Holsidan, who viewed the economic benefits of a united Osladian state to be too grand to ignore.
The first Pan-Osladians with authority came to be the High-Prince of Modvona, Ulgrin II. Ulgrin rose to power in the Principality of Modvona only three years prior and quickly began to 'federate' the Modvonan state and seeking agreements with their brothers in the Kingdom of Yugorvik. The federalization of Modvona gave new life to the Pan-Osladian movement and in 1810 the previously rivaled states came to meet in St. Rustok, the capital of Modvona.
The document the royals of the respective Osladian states came to write would forever be known in their history as 'The Treaty of Rustok' and stated that the Principalities of Yugorvik, Modvna, and the Kingdom of Autrina-Holsidan would unite into the Oslad Federation with both Grand Princes Ulgrin II and Grigory IV leading their lands, while the Autrina-Holsidan King Ottovan V would rule as Oslad's first united ruler. Across Oslad nationalists, liberals, religious zealots, and the common folk rejoiced in celebration and the day would go down in history as both the day of unification and the day of peace.
Ottovan V's reign ended abruptly in 1816, only six years after unification, and saw the first election for the new monarch. The Modovan royal family of Zizetik voted for their Prince Ulgrin II while the Yugorvik's voted for for Grigory IV's heir apparent, Yuri I. However the final die was cast when the Autrina-Holsidan vote fell to the theoretical father of Pan-Osladian and Liberal thought, Ulgrin.
Ulgrin II now, twenty years later, is 73 years old and many within the royal cabinet and the military foresee his passing. While he will go down as a unifier and a man who opened the Osladian markets to foreigners on a level never before seen, his death will cause another election for the new nation. Many worry of possible military intervention to prevent crisis, while others believe the election will go just as smoothly as the one before it. All that can be known, however, is that the future for the new Osladian Federation shall be one of struggle.
The Osladian Federation is a monarchy unified by a singular monarch elected by the House of Nobles. The House of Nobles consist of Forty Aristocrats and Nobility from Autrina-Holsidan, Modovna, and Yugorvik. Upon the ruling monarch's death a election is held in which the House chooses a new ruler in a month long debate period, during said time the nation is run by a Council of Ministers from the previous Monarch's cabinet and military officers.
Within the petty kingdoms and principalities of the Federation there still remains a state of semi-autonomy in which they hold their own personal governments with minor/regional lords and ministers governing alongside the ruler of said region.
Boletarian Commonwealth - Friendly/Minor Tensions - While culturally Oslad and the Boletarians are similar, tensions have been on the rise since the Federation took the Commonwealth's rival of Ville as a client state.
Ville Confederation - Vassal - With a new, friendly, reigning government in Ville after the 1815 Treaty of Valish the Confederation has become strong under Oslad's wing.
The Kingdom of Nehelenia - Neutral - Due to their geographical location and importance as a Great Power, the Federation has tried to keep peaceful and neutral relations with the growing colonial and naval power.
Principality of Sordogne - Friendly - Due to Sordogne being the homeland of the great Saint Glavidius, the Federation does all it can to keep strong ties to their religious motherland and often the Patriarchs sponsors pilgrimage to the capital of the Principality for Glavidian devotees.
Glavidian Orthodoxy - State Religion - Based upon the teachings of Saint Glavidius, a Latin scholar and missionary to what is now Oslad. Glavidian faith has slowly spread as a minor faith across the continent, however it stays strong in the North with its teachings of communal living. The authority of the faith is split between the four patriarchs of Modovna, Autrina, Holsidan, and Yugorvik with a Patriarchial Palace in Sarahek.
Nation Name: The Queendom of Amazonia Brief Nation History: Little is know about the history of the Amazons prior to the arrival of Old Worlders in the Western Sides. Those peoples indigenous to the Western Sides do tell of the Amazons originated from a people who arrived from across the sea centuries ago, whom the natives call the the Asgaya-dihi, or 'the man-killers'. It is rather unclear whether this actually means that the ancestors of the Amazons were actually originally from the Old World or that they came from elsewhere from the Western Sides. Some claim that the former is true because of the Amazons' greater resistance to Old World diseases, the uncanny familiarity of their language and religion, and their physical appearance seems more of a mixture between those of the Old World and the Western sides. However, detractors of this theory point out that the relative lack of Old World interaction with the Amazons could also explain the low rate of infection in the Amazon populations, while their 'Old Worldness' could be explained by their tradition of kidnapping women from neighboring communities (which as of recently have included Old World settlements).
The majority of the Amazon population lives along the Thermodon River, which begins at its source in the Luthoan Mountains in the South and flows northward until it empties out into the Bay of Myrine. The largest city (which also serves as the capital) in Amazonia is Themiscyra. Amazonia itself is actually divided into four tribal associations, or Phyla, each governing over a separate section of Amazonia and having their own leaders. The four groups are the Phyla Sogila, the Phyla Tsytla , the Phyla Adylisa, and the Phyla Daksa. However, each Phyla admits subordinate to a single queen (basilea), whom is drawn from one of the four Phyla. Whenever a heir to the thrown is unable to be found for whatsoever reason, the elders of the four Phyla assembles a council where they select a new bloodline to wield the royal power. The current dynasty of queens have been drawn from Phyla Daksa for the last several generations.
While Amazonia is a matriarchal society and the majority (although not the entirety) of its slave population is male, the male 'Amazon' population is not considered to be inferior to the womenfolk, but they rather have a position of equality. Although there is definitely a division of labor in regard to gender roles, military service is not one of them, which allows Amazonia to muster forces that are slightly larger than a population of similar size. One ritual that the Amazons hold dear is their annual raids upon their neighbors. In these raids, a band of young women are sent out to a neighboring village. Besides material plunder, the Amazons kidnap young women, whom are assimilated into Amazonian society, and young men, who are placed into slavery. Once the Old Worlders started to make settlements within the traditional Amazon "hunting grounds", the Amazons eventually raided these communities too. These incidents have caused negative relations between the Amazons and the Old Worlders.
However, the most significant event in Amazonian history was the introduction of horses to the Western Sides. Almost immediately the Amazons adopted horsemanship into their culture, both militarily and domestically. In combination with their finesse at archery, the introduction of cavalry into the Amazon military culture generated one of the most feared weapons on the northern portion of the Western Sides. Although the Amazons have been importing firearms for both military and domestic uses, the trade of these items are at such a small scale that the majority of the Amazonian fighting forces would not be wielding them.
Nation Name: Vatannia (Popularly known as Vatannis outside the nation)
Flag:
Brief Nation History: Vatannia used to be the home of the most powerful Empire the continent had ever known, the home of some of the most iconic people in history and became the cradle of the most influential faith in the region (Basically Rome. Still debatable and just an idea). However Vatannia has fallen on hard times.
No longer a major power since the 1000's, it was invaded by (stand in for France or whoever) during the (whenever) and fractured into different kingdoms. It was only unified by a combined effort a republican movement and a new wave of nationalistic pride. This came at a time when Vatannia was divided into different the Papal states and monarchies which had siezed power after the (Napoleanic war like event). The different areas were the kingdom of Cordia to the north, the Papal states at the west, the kingdom Algerno to the north east and the kingdom of Cilerno to the south east. In 1755, just xxx years after the (Napoleanic war like event), a strong democratic movement was sweeping through the kingdom of Cordia. Prior to this, Cordia in the process of a late industrial revolution at the time. At the forefront of the broad industrialization were the nobility. The local lords of the land were the only people in possession of the capital needed to industrialize the state. However the nobility would disband early trade unions who demanded higher wages for themselves, sometimes through force. This created a rift between the workers and the elites. The disgruntled workers were approached by supporters of a Cordian republic. Under the law, their cause was deemed illegal and was a form of treason punishable by death. Their underground movement was weak and had no means to overthrow the government until now. On the fifth of April, a group of resentful workers along with the handful that formed the Cordian republican political party stormed into the king's grand palace and force King Alfonso Regotti III to step down. The Republic of Cordia was thus formed.
A year after the events in Cordia, the Kingdoms of Algerno and Cilerno experienced a similar uprising. Both nations were suddenly overwhelmed with similar republican movements as Cordia and civil unrest grew. The king of Cilerno, King Amanni Morcos, negotiated for a constitutional monarchy. The republicans of the nation accepted the compromise begrudgingly. However in Algerno, King Victor Sardeno refused to give away any power. The republicans of the nation planned a forced entry into king;s palace as had the Cordians did before them. This was however learned about by King Sardeno who organized a surprise defense for the republicans. On November 24th 1756, a coalition of republican movement members and democratic supporters marched into the king's palace in Algerno. They were caught in a hail of gunfire as the royal guard and members of the Algernian army were ordered to shoot them on sight. This event would be known as the Ravenna bloodbath, named after the capital city of Algerno. Cordia quickly announced hostilities with Algerno. The Cordian-Algerno war lasted for two years. Bitter fighting between both forces engulfed the cities of Algerno. Republicans from Cilerno offered their support towards Cordia and bolstered their numbers. Despite the stiff resistance it held, Algerno ultimately was defeated. King Sardenos was hanged after being captured on the 22 of March, 1788 and was hanged the following day. His wife and children were exiled.
The Papal states was next to be integrated. The growing sense of nationalism within Cordia and Cilerno began influencing the people of the Papal states. They too wanted to be apart of the hegemony affecting their neighbors. However the Pope of the time, Pope Paul Antonny III, refused to have the church stripped of power by the state. The people of the Papal states slowly began being divided. There were those who supported integration into the Cordian-lead republic and those who wanted an autonomous region. This debates heated into tensions. Fearing the worst, the Pope fled to (France stand in or whoever). Soon tensions between nationalist republicans and ultraconservatives erupted into open war. It was a short civil war that was won by the republicans with help and funding from their neighbors in May 8, 1801. With that, the four territories were merged into a single entity. It was decided that the new nation was to be named Vatannia, from the Latin name of the territories "Vatanium". It became a constitutional monarchy, much to the dismay of hardline republicans. King Amanni Morcos became the king of the new nation while the Prime Minister of the republic of Cordia, Francesco Demagio, became its Prime Minister. A flag was chosen to represent each of the four territories that was once divded under Vatannia. Green for Cordia, white for Algerno, red for Cilerno and the purple cross for the Papal states.
Ever since the reunification, the capital is once again located in Polma, the old city that was once the center of the empire. However problems still persist. The industrial north has been deeply divided from its southern neighbors as it continues to become more and more industrialized. The Pope still demands that Polma and the Papal states be returned to him. Although a majority of the people are (Catholic stand in), most still argue about whether it was right or wrong for the new nation to take what was the Pope's. Vatannia is only held together by the newfound sense of nationalism and republican ideas popular at this time. A defeat from another nation could shatter this common bond.
Government: Constitutional Monarchy.
Landmass:
15 points, a Regional power. --Population: 21, 000, 000 Although it had suffered numerous wars before being unified, Vatannia enjoys a high populations and a steady population growth. (4 points). --Martial Prowess: The Vatannian armed forces are not yet as well equipped or well trained as those of other nations. The current government has decided to focus on further industrialization of the northern regions before it could focus on its army and army. However the nation has taken small measures to develop firearms and artillery necessary if Vitannia needed to defend itself or join in conflict. (3 points). --Cultural Unity: The nation is enjoying a sense of sweeping nationalism all throghout its territories from its national unity. Both from a mix of national and historical pride, the people of Vitannia are enjoying their unity. However a defeat could break this national bond. (6 points). --Navy: The Vatannian Navy is in a dreadful state. Its ships are generations old and Vitannia government shows no signs of revitalizing and modernizing its Navy. However the current parliament is considering a change with this attitude.(2 points). --Colonies: Vatannia does not hold any colonial territories. (0 points)
Nation Name: The Kingdom of Nehalenia Brief Nation History (No need for any history before 1700): The kingdom of Nehalenia was founded back in 1132 when Richard Valhal unified the 7 kingdoms of the Nehalenian peninsula and declared himself king of Nehalenia. The house of Valhal managed to maintain in power until the merchant revolution of 1389. During the 14th century a new social class emerged in the kingdom, the merchant class. Regular citizens saw the opportunity to gather wealth by sea based trading. By the 1385 the wealth of the merchants vastly exceeded that of the traditional landowning nobility. Jealous of the wealth and influence of the merchants, the high ranking nobility started to pressure the king to decrease the merchants influence and shift wealth towards the nobility. The king soon adopted new laws that vastly limited the size of merchant guilds and heavily taxed trade. This led to a revolt as wealth merchants hired mercenaries and defeated the kings forces in the battle of Valhalia.
With the kings forces defeated, the house of Valhal was exiled to Thennia and the merchants put George Therus, leader of the wealthiest merchant family of Nehalenia on the throne. The King George quickly turned back all the laws against the merchants and started to reform his country towards a trading empire. One of his first acts as king was the establisment of the Ostara Naval Engineering Academy, a University dedicated to develop the most modern sailing ships in the world. The second act was to actively promote and finance the exploration of the world. However, it was under the reign of king Philip Therus in 1492 that Nehalenian explorers discovered the Western Sides.
In order to explore and exploit these new lands the Western Sides Company (WSC) was formed in 1550. The WSC was granted the state monopoly for trade with this new world. Initially the WSC setup trading posts along the New worlds coast in order to trade with the local population. In 1604 the first settlers arrived and the colony New Nehalenia was formed. From this point on the WSC would gradualy colonize more territories in the Western side.
It was back in 1741 that the king ordered the foundation of the Serrantia Trading Company (STC) for th trade and exploitation of the continent of Serrantia. The first colony was established only 5 years later. Throughout the 18th century the Nehalenian monarchs and merchants continued to further expand their colonial holdings in The Western Sides and Serrantia. They continued to strive for a monopoly for the trade between the old world and these newly discovered continents. This lead to some violent clashes with competing old world powers such as Kunania. The second Nehalenian-Kunanian war of 1785-1788 saw many naval engagements and eventualy lead to Kunania giving up some of its Western Sides colonial territories to Nehalenia.
Nehalenia strives for domination of the valuable sea-based trade between the new worlds and the old ones. It tries to maintain peaceful relations with the other great powers while expanding their colonial influence throughout the Western Sides and Serrantia.
Government: Absolute monarchy. The monarchs power is absolute. However he does not rule alone. The king picks a cabinet of ministers to govern the daily affairs of the nation.
Monarch: King George Therus III
Minister of the interior: Clive Rogers Minister of foreign relations: Herald Omen Minister of colonial affairs: John Entwistle Minister of the army: Richard Bonaparte Minister of the navy: Justin Valor Minister of economic development: Donald Torrin Representative of the Western Sides Company: Representative of the Serrantia trading company:
Political and social classes: - The royal family is by far the most richest family of the kingdom. They have monopolized the trade with the new world on two state run companies. This gives the state a vast amount of revenue but a good sum of it flows into the private pockets of the royal family.
- WSC is headed by the board of directors. A council of 5 experienced merchants chosen by the king himself. On paper this gives the king a great influence on the WSC but in reality they act mostly independant. By law the WSC is granted the right to raise its own army, navy and conduct diplomacy with new world civilizations in The Western sides. The WSC appoints the governors of colonies and can choose to expand the colonial empire without the permission of the king.
- STC is a similair organisation as the WSC, only focussed on Serrantia. In terms of organisation and political powers they are granted the same rights on Serrantia as the WSC has on the Western Sides.
- The Union of Independant Merchants is a political organisation that represents the interests of the merchant class. The merchant class is the class of wealthy citizens, entrepeneurs in trade, industry and banking. These class has become increasingly unhappy with the policies of the monarchy. Especially the fact that the colonial exploitation is organised in a state monopoly. Entrepeneurs and independant traders cannot benefit much of the wealth the colonies have to offer.
- The nobility are the greatest losers of the revolution. A noble title no longer commands respect within the Nehalenian society. It is all about who has the most gold in their pockets. Prior to the revolution their political influence and wealth was great. As the Nehalenian economy became more trade focussed their wealth decayed and most where forced to sell much of their lands to agricultural entrepeneurs. Now the nobility is a disgrunteld relic from the past that longs for the glory and recognition of the middle-ages.
- The peasants are the class of the landworkers, carpenters, small farmers, craftsmen, factory workers, beggars, soldiers and sailors. Some manage to make a good living while others struggle to feed their kids. Only a few manage to climb the social ladder but most can only watch in awe how the merchants manage to gather more wealth for themselfs every day while they struggle to get by. With the industrial revolution kicking in, this class will once more learn the hard way that they are the slaves of the merchants and captains of industry. If only two philosophers would write down the challenges and solutions for the working class into a political manifest.
- The colonial subjects are the native population of the Nehalenian colonies and are by far the worst off in Nehalenian society. The Nehalenian system of taxation and currency was forced down upon them destroying their traditional tribal ways of live. Once they became subjects of the Nehalenian king they we're forced to pay taxes to the WSC and STC. They are locked in a system where they have to work in order to pay their boss. They are often forced into labor on plantations and mines. Wages are so low that colonials never can pay for education and thus never can rise on the social ladder. The colonial system only serves to enrich the Nehalenian state and citizens. Landmass:
Foreign relations:
Major powers: * Boletarian Commonwealth: Trading partners / Neutral * The Kingdom of Skeptoni: Is seen as potential rival / Neutral * United Kingdoms of Dalatrum: Neutral * Zellon Empire: Is seen as a potential rival / Neutral
Minor old world powers (NPC): * Kunenia: Kunenia is a former enemy and colonial rival. In the war of 1785-1788 Kunenia suffered a series of defeats at the hands of Nehalenia and seceded most of its colonial holdings. Relations normalized in 1801 and continued to improve over the last years. Former rival / Friendly * The Kingdom of Thennia. The relations between Thennia and Nehalenia have been friendly for a long time. Thennia is one of the main suppliers of lumber for the Nehalenian shipbuilding industry. Nehalenia recognises the value of the relationship and is currently in the proces of formalizing the friendship with a treaty where Nehalia guarantees the independace of Thennia.
New world powers * The Queendom of Amazonia: The Western Sides Company suspects the Queendom of seizing one of their ships without warning or declaration of war. The WSC leadership has dispatched a task force on a diplomatic mission to recover the ship and her crew. The current relations can be best described as rather hostile.
Landmass:
Spend points here -- Population: (3 points) 22.000.000 -- Martial Prowess: (5 points) 179.000 moderately trained soldiers -- Cultural Unity: (0 points)This gives historical claims to your nation, making it easier to expand, grow and maintain cultures within a growing empire. -- Navy: (9 points) 27 third rates, 20 second rates, 10 first rates -- Colonies: (8 points) 2 Colonial holding, 1 in Serrantia, 1 colonial holding and 1 major holding in The Western sides.
Brief Nation History (No need for any history before 1700): The lands that would become the modern Kingdom of Anvegad were formerly the lands of three warring kingdoms locked in chronic conflict. A situation supposedly fostered by outside powers to gain access to the resource-rich lands at the center of the battleground that were exported in exchange for mercenaries, firearms, and early crude artillery to crack the network of entrenched castles and fortresses built since medieval times.
It would take an unlikely partnership between a radical general named Arden Strakov and the ruthless king Alexi Despovich to bring about a final end to the conflict via building the first domestic artillery foundries of the Kingdom and unifying the three kingdoms in a series of decisive strategically offensive yet tactically defensive battles that are actively studied today, as well as the less-known shadow war to eliminate the foreign agents that stoked the flames of war. Despovich would become the first King of a unified Anvegad in 1760, and Strakov would go on to found the first formal military academy and head it for ten years before disappearing into obscurity.
Since then, Anvegad actively strove to build and expand its dominion to remain competitive with the Great Powers, but ultimately was unable to achieve Great Power status as tides of politics, war, and colonialism swayed in favor of other nations. Frustration against foreign lands turned inwards as ideologies and philosophers declared they had failed because of fundamental weaknesses within the country and being too rooted in the past. A new wave of thinking rose as crown, generals, and merchants alike were forced to realize they had to keep up with the changing tides of the world if they were to avoid being swallowed up by the Great Powers or even chance an attempt at another rise to greatness. Though it resulted in two major civil wars and decades of civil strife as misplaced ideals and practices were taken advantage of by the ambitious or greedy, the kingdom would ultimately become stronger for it.
In 1830, the kingdom was struck by sudden tragedy when the King Tarkendis the Great died during the outbreak of Red Fever, leaving only the young heir Prince Adrian who was away from the capital studying at a foreign university alive to rule the Kingdom, resulting in a sudden shift in political power to the Inner Council that formerly advised the king, and an equally jarring shift from a traditionalist crown to progressive ministers now free to enact changes they deem necessary to ensure the survival of the kingdom without the careful balance of power upheld by the previous king, a situation even more complicated as the Supreme Commander of the Armies assumed de facto dominance over the council, and the young King is proving to be as paranoid about foreign enemies as he is open minded towards industrialization.
With the rise of industry, enlightenment, and radical ideas, only time will tell if the kingdom will stand the test of time.
Government: Parliamentary Monarchy/ Plutocracy
In theory, Anvegad is an absolute monarchy where the crown and his council of appointed ministers selected from the landed elite hold ultimate sway over the country in conjunction with a council of elected officials to represent the parishes and estates. In recent decades however, authority has shifted more towards the Imperial Council than the crown as the Kingdom expanded, which has now reached its peak with an inexperienced and underage king on the throne.
In current practice, the ten-minister Inner Council holds current control over the kingdom, which in turn is heavily influenced by the Supreme Commander of the Armies who possesses de facto control over the country in conjunction with the young king. Whether or not this arrangement will stand the test of time has yet to be determined, but is currently stable and secure.
Landmass: Between Osland and Boletaria
Spend points here -- Population: 17 million (2 pts)
-- Martial Prowess: (9 pts)
The Kingdom of Anvegad is a martial power, primarily emphasizing state of the art artillery ordnance and doctrine backed by disciplined infantry and well-organized command and administration. Yet there is a continuous drive to improve, expand, and build even heavier cannons as the Great Powers continue to rise.
-- Cultural Unity: (2 pts)
Anvegad is united by common religion and culture, as well as a common distrust of foreign powers, particular the “Great Powers”. It is also unified by economic security,
-- Navy: 6 Third rates, 4 Second Rates, 2 First Rates (2 pt)
The Anvegad Navy is a shell of what it once was and not much effort has been put into rebuilding it or upkeep of its shore facilities, with shore battery forts at strategic coastal points considered an adequate defense of the kingdom’s lands from naval invasion combined with seasonal freezing of its ports.
-- Colonies: 0 pts
The kingdom has little interest, time, or ability to attempt colonial expeditions when it has more pressing issues domestically and with its neighboring foreign powers.
Nation Name: The Empire of Zellon Flag: Brief Nation History (No need for any history before 1700):The Empire of Zellon started out as a small duchy that war amongst other duchies for control of the small resources the island had. Eventually after many generations the duchy grew through diplomacy and war into the single most powerful house in the entire island. It remains at peace with much of the mainland and wishes to expand their interests in the new world to trade. While they have a small colony setup in the new world their enlightenment at home and being of an island nation they remain mostly of their culture and beliefs unlike those who mix and mingle on the mainland. Having the largest fleet they are able to protect their trade lanes and keep the peace around their island. Currently the Nation is lead by a elder King named Zach Conrad and Queen Meghan Conrad. The heir to the empire is 24 years of age and is named James Conrad along with his siblings Kara 19, Zach 16.
Brief Nation History: Founded in the fourteenth century by King Nicolet I, the Kingdom of Braiyusal has thrived off a strong maritime and trading tradition. Though relatively powerful, the Kingdom of Braiyusal has seen very little conflict, and even fewer wars outside of trade disputes and opposition against new world natives. This has ultimately served to strengthen the country position, and has lead to a relatively isolationist view on world conflicts, both in the old world and new.
During the early 18th century and the reign of King Nicholaus IV the country of Braiyusal enjoyed what is often called a Golden Age for their people. They experienced newly found wealth and trade with their relatively small, but well placed colonial holding in the new world, and a wave of nationalism due to their naval superiority over many nations, even relatively large ones. Even today, the people consider the reign of King Nicholaus IV the peak of their country's power, and with good cause.
After the death of King Nicholaus IV in 1773, due to severe illness, his son King Hobard II the Unready succeeded him, and with it the challenges of a changing world. Even though late into Nicholaus’ reign many of these issues were prevalent, they weren’t truly taken note of until Hobard II took the throne. Like most rulers during the time, he embraced these changes brought on by the industrial revolution, but hadn’t prepared for the consequences that came with them. The merchants and wealthy men of the country, simply couldn’t adapt to this new world, holding on to their traditional ideals and actively fought against the Hobard’s reforms. Soon enough the people of Braiyusal experienced little trade with the outside world, and nearly 200,000 people died due to famine and hunger. Three years later Hobard II died due to food poisoning, some even argue that it was an assassination.
King Rolfe youngest brother of Hobard II succeeded the throne soon after his brother’s death in 1794, and unlike his brother had the support of the noblemen to bring about a change. Utilizing this newfound support, he quickly modernized the nation, and passed many reforms to appease both the people and the noblemen. Soon enough he began rebuilding their once great navy, and trade between nations had been revived.
It is now the year 1836, and King Rolfe find’s himself in good health, with three young children two boys and one girl, Prince Nicolet III age 28, Prince Rolfe II age 24, and Princess Jane age 19. The nation continues to enjoy it’s relatively quick recovery under Rolfe’s new reforms, and are starting to call it a second Golden Age.
Government: The kingdom of Braiyusal is a semi-constitutional monarchy with a relatively small senate of ten members to represent the king's subjects and are elected by the people. Every other year the king must choose three members of the council of ten who he wishes to replace, to which the people then must vote a landed noblemen whom they wish to take the now empty seat. In an event that a council member dies serving the senate he shall not be replaced until time of elections and his vote shall be counted as abstained until the next election. Once election time comes, he shall automatically become selected as one of the king’s replacements, in an event that four or more members have died than four or more members shall be replaced that year depending on the amount needed to fill the seats.
The council itself has the power to adjust and create new taxes, arrange peace, declare war, and determine wages if 6 out of the 10 members agree to the decision, if the votes are split then the decision will not pass, unless the king himself wishes to intervene at which he can choose to pass the decision anyways. If the king feels any or all members of the council are corrupt or are actively working against the interest of their fellow country men, then he has the power to temporarily suspend their power within the government until a proper vote has taken place among the other landed noblemen in the country.
Landmass:
(If you missed it, it's the tiny island next to Tangaria highlighted with a black border.)
Spend points here -- Population: 10,000,000 (0 Points) The Kingdom of Braiyusal despite it's relatively small territory, enjoys a decently size population. -- Martial Prowess: (2 Points) Relying mostly on it's navy, the people of Braiyusal's troops hardly see conflict outside of fighting natives, and often the troops are relatively underfunded. -- Cultural Unity: (4 Points) The people of Braiyusal have an almost unique culture compared to the rest of the old world built off trade and relative isolationism. -- Navy: 18 3rd rate ships, 12 second rate ships, and 7 first rate ships (6 Points) The pride of Braiyusal, and extremely well funded to protect it's maritime trade and defend the Braiyusalian strait. -- Colonies: (3 Points) A decent sized holding in the new world.
Brief Nation History: The disparate states of the northeast were known to be a backwards land, where the quality of life had progressed little since the renaissance. Petty states were locked in constant wars for centuries before the powerful Amoury family united them under their banner. Now, for the last several decades, the nation has known nothing but tyranny under them.
Being a relatively new nation, forged by conquest and blood, it has little other than the strength of the Amoury family and its relationship to the land's various nobles to hold it together. The numerous different peoples and ethnicities do not get along well, and the military must keep an ever watchful eye on its people. Most of the uprisings come from the south, where clashes of religion mix with problems present across the land.
The only modestly developed part of the nation is the seat of Amoury power and capitol of the nation: the city of Bittle. It is a rather idyllic-looking, small city, with beautiful architecture, with the resplendent imperial palace towering over the smaller buildings.
Emperor Damian Amoury has recently inherited the throne from his father. For now, it's not clear what kind of ruler he will be, as he has been shielded from court by a plethora of advisors, who hastily prepare him for the challenges of rule before letting him make any decisions himself, a situation Damian is very annoyed with, and the nobility are quite anxious about. He is but eighteen years old, and has yet to find a suitable woman of standing to marry. He has a younger sister, Roxana, who is fourteen years old. She is known for a flighty, spoilt brat. The two siblings do not get along.
Government: Feudal Monarchy - The Emperor draws fealty from his vassal nobles, who rule the land in his stead in exchange for being able to collect part of the lands incomes.
Landmass: [ That large gap of land in the far east, with all those woods, north of Kapitas. Not the straightest lines, but you get the gist. I have everything not already taken in the east, except that clearly uninhabitable stretch of desert, which is the presumed reason for neither the Sultanate nor Caliphate having it. If it is habitable, I'm definitely going to take it. ]
Nation Name: The Kingdom of Kalpia Brief Nation History The Kingdom of Kalpia was a very divided kingdom with a lot of feudal dinasties fighting for power , that was until a great figure appeared called Gathian IV , this king was able to overcome the problems that his father and grandfather couldnt solve , he centralized the goverment made the nobles more loyal to the crown an even gave some rights to the bourgeoisie , his kingdom was one of the first to become an Absolutist Monarchy , but to overcome all the nobles he had to make an army loyal to the crown and not to the nobles this task took years but Gathian IV made it , he made an standing army big and disciplined , because of this Gathian was considered a military genius and his tactics and strategies are still used in the army of Kalpia.
The Succesors of Gathian IV has been able to maintain the army Gathian IV had created , but more recently they aspire to create a larger kingdom in honor of Gathian IV Government: Absolutist Monarchy Landmass:
Spend points here : -- Population: 13,000,000 (1) -- Martial Prowess: An largue army of soldiers have the task to defend the kingdom and the king , they have a high morale , the best discipline and some of the most modern equipment and strategies (11) -- Cultural Unity: Faith Unity , the army and an Old Culture maintains the kingdom united(2) -- Navy: 1 (3 Third Rates, 2 Second Rates and 1 First Rate) -- Colonies: 0
Ever since its birth under the Great Hawk Chief Mikasi in 1714, The Mikasi Tribes have expanded vastly over the land. Not a century previous they were a handful of warrior tribes fighting amongst each other, settled within the crimson caps of the red mountains. Now they rule over several hundred miles of land and are unified under one blood soaked banner.
While they are a very primitive peoples they are a very adaptable group also. As of 1732, two years after Mikasi's death, his son Chief Werra implemented a crude education system that had the elders of communities teach those too young to work or be trained. The resulting generation of infants showed improved proficiency in their later jobs and standings, and so the system remains until this day.
Upon the discovery of a potential tribal threat from the southern desert, in 1749 Chief Werra forged the plans for a military training campaign, the following three years are remembered as the tuso'dera years (meaning too young) because of the amount of young men that died fighting in border encounters. 6 years later, practically on his death bed, Werra reformed his plans so that young boys recruited into the warrior clans were trained until the age of 16 and then were deemed ready for battle, rather than the previous age of 14.
Chief Turju, Werra's younger brother, took his place in 1750 and reinforced both the education and military recruitment campaigns, as they had been lacking in some of the more secluded regions of the land. By the year of 1756 the desert threat was dealt with and the Mikasi Tribes expanded their borders south for the first time in decades.
In 1777 the newly appointed Chief Lasharo changed the Tribes ways and split the Mikasi into three groups. While the land was still the same, this was done as he believed that only one chieftain for such a large expanse of land was insufficient, and that three tribes would be united under the same banner. Thus the Mikasi banner was altered and three chiefs appointed.
Up until recent years the Mikasi had been the only real power in the north, but reports from scouts began to indicate Old World settlements being erected not far from their borders. Many scouting parties were sent to investigate in 1832 and returned with a few strange weapons and apparel, these strange guns were tested and eventually given to the Navajo tribe to train with.
A single cannon was also stolen, and is currently being installed into the chieftains war barge.
Government:
Ruled over by Tribal Elders, a Head Chief and three minor chieftains, the Mikasi Tribe is split into three tribal communities. The largest of these three is the Miheraku who cover the entire middle section of the Mikasi lands. Then there is the Poyessif, the northern most community made up of river and lake settlements. Lastly there is the Navajo who rule over the southern tip of the Mikasi plains as well as the red mountains.
Landmass:
Religion:
Spiritual believers in the elemental Gods. Hassun of earth, Hakan of fire, Heinmot of air and Hotah of water.
Population:
The Mikassian population stands at 28,000,000. (4 points)
Martial Prowess:
The Mikasi are a nation built on fueds, war and conflict and as such have a huge force of warrior clans. Ambushes, outflanking and such military tactics of speed and guile are not uncommon in Mikasi warfare. Archers, spear men and axe units are the main components of most Mikasi Legions, excluding of course mounted units. (2,000,000 strong)(9 points)
Cultural Unity:
The Mikasi do not claim the right to any land that is not theirs, but will take that which is wrongly given to others. (1 point)
Navy:
With many rivers and the vast Miautche Lake within their lands, the Mikasi can use basic river and lake transport as well as war barges. (1 point)
Colonies:
The Mikasi believe a nation should be united in faith, aim and by the earth itself. The prospect of a colony is ludicrous. (0 points)
Further information:
Military Forces:
Archers: Equipped with a bow, arrows and twin daggers - every Mikassian archer is a swift and deadly foe. Primitive hide armor with general camouflage. Order in rank: New blood - Hunter - Boar Blood - 1000 arrow
Spear men: Equipped with 3 throwing spears, 1 is reserved for melee combat. Shield that increases in size and quality with rank. At long arm status they have longer spears with extra reach. Wooden and hide medium armor. Order in rank: New blood - Wind Wise - Long arm - Red Circle
Axe men: Equipped with 2 duel wield throwing axes and a war axe with shield. Their shield also increases in size and quality with rank. Order in rank: New blood - Beheader - Hukka - Iron edge
Shield Warriors: Equipped with a strong shield and single war axe. Heavy wooden, cloth and hide armour. Order in rank: New blood - Tideturner - Defender - Mountain
Berserkers: Equipped with two short throwing spears, two duel daggers and a large war axe. Medium cloth and hide armor. Order in rank: Blood drinker - Limb breaker - Fury
Cavalry: Equipped with either; a war axe and shield; a lance and shield; a bow and arrows with war axe or a rifle and war axe. Equipment varies with the situation (only 3 rifle rider groups exist at any given time). light - heavy armor, again varies with intent and situation. Order in rank: New blood - Six leg - Earth shaker
Elites: Elites represent any group of military unit that is of the highest rank, most elite groups have thier own banners and champions that lead them. There are 3 elite mounted rifle units and 2 units on foot at any time, elite foot gunners are known as Thunderers.
Chieftains party: The chieftains party is the 'best of the best' when it comes to military units. Formed from many elites of different specialization, this is a single unit that does devastating damage in battle.
War Path:
The Mikassian Tribes use this unique ability to incredible effect when a single target needs to be decimated. The 4 chieftains will council and come to a conclusion on a target, this target is then publicly announced and this intent is encouraged to be spread. The mystics of every tribe, of every clan and village pray to the Gods, what can only be described as blood lust grows in the population and many retired veterans join the military as well as natives of the nation (even surrounding native nations) rally to the cause.
If the path is to be tread, every Mikasi will walk it, and it shall end in blood and death.
War Cry: Mikasi warriors are known to charge into a conflict screaming their tribe name. "Mikasi" is most common, but sometimes particularly older and prouder men will scream one of the three tribe names, depending on their roots. This can be harmful to enemy morale, especially during an ambush or flanking.
Brief Nation History: The Confederacy of Sawl was started up by multiple merchants who got fed up with their own governments for various reasons; taxes, respect, etc. The merchants banded together and set aside any hate that they may have had for one another, they wanted to make a place in their image where they didn't need to deal with that problem. In 1756, they made landfall on the place they would call home and began to clear out the natives in the immediate area. A colony was set up and so was a port, allowing for more ships and trade. They began thriving. In 1763, they had been expanding rapidly accommodate for heavy immigration, leading to the territory the have now.
In 1802, Sawl went over a massive civil dispute and whether the country should be isolationist or not. The government at the the time said yay, a majority of the others did not want this though as they feared it would dwindle the economy. It wasn't until 1805 that a two year civil war broke out over this. In the end the rebellion had succeeded and the the government had been eliminated. Now, it is led by an absolute dictatorship by the current dictator, Williams Sergio the I
Afterwards, the nation became more militarized in order to properly defend their lands from pirate and the natives in the surrounding area.
Government: Absolute dictatorship
Landmass: (marked in orange)
Spend points here -- Population: Due to the civil war, Sawl is still recovering but holds at 13,000,000 strong (1) -- Martial Prowess: The Sawlian military is growing in order to deal with closer threat so that they do not die out essentially, that would be bad. (5) -- Cultural Unity: Sawl is less concerned about growing rather than rebuilding but it will begin once more when everything is proper. (1) -- Navy: 24 third rates, 16 second rates, 9 first rates (8) -- Colonies: There are plenty of lands around them to expand into. (0)
