CollectorOfMyst — Roleplayer Guild

The Principality of Evernyx

NATIONAL INFORMATION:
Population:52 million. They are mostly made up of humans, Nephthys Elves, the Bastati, and the Dianads
Faction:Yuwanist
Capital:Nychta, City of Origin.
Government Type:Principality
Government Description:The Nation is ruled over by the Grimoire family. Though theirs is a monarchy, there are no kings, nor even queens – princes and princesses only. Artem is their official Prince Regnant, the ruling prince, given that both his elder siblings forswore the title.

Head of State:Prince Regnant Artem Grimoire
Currency:Eamilla, a series of coins made of flattened silver or gold, their worth determined by the seals on their surfaces. Lower classes will also use the barter system.
Language(s):Edhelywin Elvish is spoken by a portion of the Elven populace, and the all of the aristocracy. However, they also have their own tongue, known as Nyxtis by the nobility. While ‘shared’ by all citizens of Evernyx, there are subtle differences between the ways the higher and lower classes speak it.

Short-History:
Evernyx once had a King, Fenris Grimoire. It was a small nation once. A small place just barely large enough to warrant notice. For the duration of the First Crusade, by the decree of the King, they had sided with the Justinian forces. But, given that over a third of their population was sent off to battle, and people were still being conscripted and sent off with little more than a pitchfork to fight with, unrest grew quickly. And after the Justinian and Yuwa’s battle was over, their troops were finally recalled. A mere thirty. Thirty men returned to Evernyx.

On seeing this, Princess Rhea could no longer contain her rage. Rousing her siblings, she staged a coup, and slew her father. She then ascended the throne, and proclaimed herself Princess Regnant. Never again would a king or queen step foot in their halls. In the years following, she converted her people to Yuwanism, using a mixture of appeal, threats and preaching.

And once her hold was solidified within her borders, she turned her gaze to beyond them. Evernyx was not the only smaller nation in that region, nor the only one to follow Yuwa. First she began by assimilating those closest to them, through marrying off her siblings and promising great bounty in return for their loyalty. Then it was subtle hints, threats of war, assassinations. The remaining provinces were given the choice of either surrendering to the greatly-increased power of Evernyx, or fighting for their lives. Most surrendered. The rest would fight futilely, like sand against the tide. And on seeing the nation she had created, her hair grey and her face lined with all her years, the Princess Regnant closed her eyes, and rested.

Records of these wars tell of magic Rhea used that would turn a field into an inferno, or armies of creatures that would tear into the ranks of opposing armies, terrifying in power and appearance, only to vanish with the dawn. Though, many of these records were made after the wars themselves, and so their reliability is not certain. However, Rhea does bestow a special kind of power upon those who are most loyal to her. It comes in many forms, and changes with the moon, but is powerful nonetheless.

Evernyx has become recognised as a bastion against the Concilio Union, halting the advance of the false Justice, and as a deterrent for the Empire. Since, their people have grown in number exponentially. An influx of elves from both enemy nations who were willing to sell themselves into slavery in exchange for protection. There was also the migration of the Dianads, a race of canine men, and the Bastati, felines, from a place far to the north. While their origins are solely theirs, they are unquestionably loyal, and believe that by serving the descendants of Rhea, they will be rewarded upon death.

In recent years, though, Evernyx has come across several instabilities. Among them was the rise and fall of Prince Regnant Nathair, the breaking of traditions, battles and losses with the Concilio Union and the Empire of Zul. And the new, shaky, alliance of the dragon known as Mania. Both necessity and risk to the other Yuwanist states, they cross several boundaries their allies are uncomfortable or disapproving of, but undeniably needed for the survival of Evernyx.

UNIQUE ATTRIBUTE INFORMATION:

Night Magic – Though some have doubts as to whether this form of magic is more of a hindrance than an asset, it is nonetheless a practiced form in Evernyx. Using it allows one to cast minor illusions, or to physically alter large areas and landscapes, even people. Though, the spells that can be accessed are all dependent on the phase of the moon, and will always be dispelled by dawn’s first light.
Beastly – The Principality is home to the largest populations of Bastati, a feline race, and the Dianads, who are all manner of canine people.
Secrets and Shadows – Evernyx has a history of assassinated nobles, quelled rebellions, and spies who garner information on their enemies and allies alike. It is no small wonder that a reputation has been garnered.
 We ARE the Northern War – The Principality of Evernyx is large part of the Yuwanist front line, bordering almost all of their Justinian ‘counterpart’, the Concilio Union. As such, their allies have been known to send soldiers to the front lines in order to reinforce the border, and more often than not, aim to battle their enemy.

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION:

Major Locations of Interest:
The Emerald Spire – The resting place of Rhea, first princess Regnant, and now her place of divine residence. It is also the Chevaliers’ base of operations. Represented by the Crescent Moon.
Nychta – Capital city of Evernyx, and location of the royal palace. The First City of Evernyx, where Rhea’s plans were first set in motion.
Hadden – Hadden was Rhea’s first ally when she began her campaign, when they were given a promise of wealth and prosperity in exchange for soldiers. Though scholars have long argued of her relationship with Karten Hadden, no consensus has ever been reached, nor will Rhea herself speak of it.
Mariana – Mariana was a vital part off Rhea’s plans. Though Swyncrest was further south, Mariana was the richer of the two, due to the flow of trade. So, through marrying her younger sister Palla to Mariana’s Prince Asil, she gained their alliance. To this day, it is the main port of Evernyx, and has grown all the larger for it.
Ostburn – Ostburn was the name of the country to the north of the original Evernyx. With the threat of Mariana blockading the docks, Ostburn eventually parleyed with Rhea, and would cede its lands and throne to her. However, it became a steadfast ally over the years. Most of the Principality’s traded goods will flow through Ostburn at one point or another.
Brightglass – The land of Brightglass has long been renowned for its prosperous mines, be it iron, gold, or precious stones that you seek. Rhea’s campaign took it there almost last – after Lamor fell to her army, Brightglass surrendered, leaving the corner kingdom of Reddale to its own fate. Still to this day, the beauty of the Principality is claimed to be this city.
Blackden, Swyncrest, Caydon, Dellmere, Lamor and Reddale – The various towns across Evernyx that bear the names of their ancestral domains. Their guards are often minimal, and the nobility are sparse in those parts.
Serpents’ Forest – Forbidden to most of the population, the Serpents’ Woods is rumoured to be one of the few places that the ‘Overlays’ still exist in Evernyx. In reality, the Serpents’ Woods is the main base of operations for Princess Shara and the Dusk Guard. Represented by the tree in Hadden territory.
The Fortress of the Triskelion – The location of the great battle five years ago, known as the Fortress of Norsal to some. Though technically still within the Principality’s borders, they lost control of it alongside the skirmish. Represented by the Triskelion, at the northernmost point of Blackden.
Mania’s Redoubt – The residence of the dragon Mania. A trail a few meters wide foes through the rock into the otherwise isolated inlet. Represented by the Dagger and Dragons.
The Legion Fortresses – These four fortresses are where you may often find segments of the four legions of the Bastion. Interspersed along the wall, these forts serve as barracks, and are where many plans are devised. The Fortress of the Triskelion was once one of these.
The Bastion of Eternal Night - A monumental wall, located on the northern border. It has been there since the throne passed from Rhea to Argon, and was Rhea's first feat as a Servant of Yuwan. From the earth, she raised a wall of stone, with only four ways to pass through it. Each gap was filled with a Fortress, as well as one at the northernmost end, which was open to other nations. Any who attack must either go over, or focus their attack on those four points.

RACIAL INFORMATION:
HUMANS: 39% - Approx. 20.3 million. The most common race. Roughly a quarter of the human population are slaves, whereas the rest are of varying social status.
NEPHTHYS ELVES: 14% - Approx. 7.3 million. The majority of the Nephthys elves commonly possess dark or pale hair, extremely pale skin, and slanted eyes that are amber in colour. Most of them are also slaves, due to their origins. The few free elves are among the nobility, though they seem to hold no more love for their kindred than the human nobles.
BASTATI: 20% - Approx. 10.4 million. (singular; Bastet) You will find Bastati in most social standings – as higher slaves, or low nobility, and all across the common folk. Known for their pride, they have ever stood tall, and have gained both the respect and envy of some of the other races. They were also a favourite of Rhea’s, and so sacrificing a Bastet to her specifically will yield less Theurgia.
DIANADS: 20% - Approx 10.4 million. (singular; Dianad). While there are no noble Dianads, there are also comparatively few slaves of this race. Dianads generally serve as labourers, transporters or city guards.While some hold the respect and love of their human neighbours, others call them beasts. Inherently loyal, as long as there is a bond of trust, they will assist you. Rhea has no strong feelings toward them, but accepts them as Evernyxians.
OTHER ELVISH: 7% - Approx. 3.6 million. Since Nephthys elves have found sanctuary in Evernyx, and it is often the first stop through to Yuwanist territory, many other elves have passed through in the last three centuries. Some also settled here, and hold similar statuses to their kindred, though more walk as nobility than slaves.

RELIGIOUS INFORMATION:

State Religion: Yuwanism
Patron Deity:Rhea
Religion Demographics:
97% Yuwanist
42% Rhean

1.3% Justinian
1.7% Red Pantheon
The majority of Bastati and Dianads are devoted to Rhea more than Yuwa, but comply with Yuwanism since that was Rhea’s own faith. Then the greatest majority of Evernyx follows both Yuwa, and Rhea as her servant. There are a few insurgents, who have converted to Justinianism or to a Fallen Servant, but the Chevaliers of the Spire are often swift in tracking down these groups and exterminating them.
Major Holy Relics/Artefacts in Possession:
The Eye – This relic, pictured in Rhea’s portrait, can grant wisdom and knowledge to whoever uses it. By Yuwan's grace, since it is bound to her, she will set out a path to follow in order to obtain the answers you seek. It can also grant various other powers, such as the ability to scry and divine without having to learn the spells to do so, and to see what lies beyond mortal sight.
The Grimoire Sceptre – An artefact that is invariably held by the current Prince or Princess Regnant of Evernyx, first held by, and bound to Rhea. While not even they can determine its true power, it does grant them the ability to cast a number of spells without needing to prepare a ritual first, since these are already engraved into the sceptre itself.

Holy Sites under Control:The Emerald Spire – This is the foremost place of reverence for Rhea, and where the majority of her clerics and chevaliers will be found if they have not been bade travel to other locations.

Notable Magical Institutions:
Each of the major towns and cities for which Evernyx’ provinces are known has a Grand Hall dedicated to Yuwan and Rhea. With the rise of the Reformation, these buildings slowly began to include the other Celestial Servants of Yuwan. Additionally, if one bears a seal of a noble house, the Halls will allow you to study whatever scrolls or tomes they have acquired there.
There is also a library, located within the boundaries of ------'s old territory, which is home to a grand deal of knowledge, magical and scientific both.
Religious Interpretations/Culture: Most people of Evernyx believe that Yuwan supported, if not directly assisted, Rhea in her formation of the Principality.
Many Evernyxians are also supportive of the Reformist movement in Yuwanist politics – and believe that the Celestial Servants should not just be recognised by the countries they watch over.

MILITARY INFORMATION:

Total Military Size:130, 000 estimated
Guardians of the Wall: 50, 000
The Oaken Vigil: Roughly 34, 000
The Dawn Guard: 20, 000
The Dusk Guard: 10, 000
Chevaliers of the Spire: 16, 000

Listed Heroes:(Descriptions will likely change. I have the images, but need to upload them first.)

A young noble girl whose family was killed in a raid by the Empire of Zul. Though she was among the defenders for the attack, she is not graceful in the slightest. But, she knows her fair share of details, especially since she can move among the nobility without them knowing her station as one of the Dusk Guard.

Nobody knows her face. Nobody knows her real name. But she is one of the Dusk Guards’ deadliest weapons. She is only deployed in the most serious of circumstances.

The so-called ‘Grand Enforcer’. As a member of the Dusk Guard, he serves to gain information and suppress attacks. A harsh taskmaster, he’s led several response teams against slave rebellions in his day, before they ever came to light.

One of the four generals of the Wall. She has command of the First Legion, where the fighting is often tough. Despite many offers of marriage from prestigious aristocrats, she has always turned them down. No soldier will disobey her. Posted at the southern Fortress of Reddale.

One of the four generals of the Wall, commander of the Second Legion. Unparalleled in his mastery of the gryphon’s reins, he will often be found on the outskirts of the battle, where he can assist and direct wherever it is needed. Posted at the mountain Fortress of Lamor

One of the four generals of the Wall. He commands the Third Legion. He looks to the advice of his subordinates and tacticians often, and from it, crafts battle plans for many situations. Posted at the central Fortress of Dellmere.

One of the four generals of the Wall. Commander of the Fourth legion. To most people, he is a commanding figure, who is not easily disobeyed. Despite being one of the less attacked sectors, he is nonetheless a strict taskmaster. Posted at the northern Fortress of Ostburn.
One of the most competent of the Dawn Oaths’ captains, she serves at the City of Brightglass. She has been tested in battle a multitude of times, but her true mind lies in strategy.
Tyro’s station is the city of Ostburn. While his methods do not always garner the approval of his guardsmen, they say that his arrow flies true. He has endured hardship as a Bastet in power, but as his name gains ever more renown, fewer try his patience.
Luna is new to her station. She is a skilled swordswoman, but commanding chevaliers is not easy for her, given her youth, and her low birth. She will defend Rhea’s name whenever it is called for.
A noble-born elf, nobody truly expected it when he signed up for the Chevaliers of the Spire. He was an object of interest for a while, given that he is certainly no Nephthys elf. Mentioning this to him causes a strange reaction in him, and he will leave the room.
A past member of the Dawn Guard, she was given an honorable discharge after taking a bad wound against bandits. Three years later, just as she was about to take up arms again, the order came to divert the guards to the main towns and cities. Enraged by the aristocracy for leaving the people defenceless, Risa became one of the three founding members of the Oaken Vigil.
A man with a mysterious past. He was only shadow and rumour to begin with – a solo fighter with nothing to lose, throwing himself against highway men and bandits whenever encountered. Directly after the dissolution of the village and town guards, Risa and Julian sought him out to ask for assistance in defending Evernyx. Though it took much convincing, he eventually agreed to become one of three founding members of the Oaken Vigil.

Military Doctrine:
Military Units: 
The Dusk Guard – As the organization that is behind much of the stability and defenses that Evernyx enjoys, the Dusk Guard is still relatively ‘new’, given its change of command to Princess Shara. They discover the movements of the enemy. They gather information on suspicious characters. And they remove those who are deemed to be dangerous to Evernyx.

The Arquero

Undercover spies. Battlefield scouts. Messengers. That is the purpose of the Arquero. Any stronghold or base the Dusk Guard controls, you will undoubtedly find these units in abundance, given they are the backbone of the organization.

The Mirar

The Mirar, or Mirror Maidens, are women who stand among merchants, nobles, farmers, and even slaves. As with the Arquero, they work undercover, but their purpose is different. Gathering information is where they begin, but their methods differ from agent to agent. And, when it becomes necessary, a Maiden will be sent to eliminate a threat.

The Enforcers

This is the more… militant side of the Dusk Guard. Mages. Warriors. It matters not the way they fight. They are trained to quell dissent quickly and quietly, using whatever means necessary. Due to the nature of their mission, and the strength it requires, they are very rarely human. Every order is followed to the letter. Every mission, carried out without fail. If it is… the squad who failed will face repercussions.

Nightweaver

Nightweavers have ever been few in number, but in recent times, they are rarer than ever. Ever regarded with fear even inside the Principality's borders, their magic is a strange art, a secret to all but the highest of society, for this power can only be granted by Rhea herself. It will wax and wane with the moon, the spells losing power the dimmer its light – though, this is never spoken of, only learned through experience. Deployed to whatever place the royal family orders, they are said to be able to bring armies to their knees through fear alone – an exaggeration, surely.

The Guardians of the Wall – The Guardians are divided into four divisions, with a rigid system put in place to ensure that it is as efficient as possible. With Prince Maron as High General, and the four generals of the wall under his supervision, their main focus is to hold their ground, but do not shy from an offensive if they see the right opportunity. While the arms and armour of the soldiers are theirs to care for, it is provided to them by Evernyx itself, ensuring that all of its soldiers are equal the moment they step onto the battlefield.
I do not care if you are noble born or of common blood, man, beast or elf. Here, on this battlefield, our priority is to stop the Western wretches from breaking us. Evernyx is the first line of defense. It will not do if I lose soldiers simply because you are watching the man next to you for signs of treachery. Because there will come a time, and there is no doubt of this, that your life will depend on the shield he carries.Prince Maron Grimoire, to the soldiers under his command

Bastion Infantry

Making up roughly half of the Bastion, these soldiers are the front line. Often you will find a strange camaraderie between them - off the battlefield, one soldier will hate another with a passion. On the battlefield, they won't hesitate to throw themselves in harm’s way to save him. And should he die... it will be that soldier who died beside him.

Bastion Archer

The archers of the bastion are divided – and with good reason. Most will be seen during battle, often keeping their distance to rain arrows where openings are seen. But their best watch the lands and skies night and day for any who might try to approach.

Bastion Charger

The Chargers will often be seen in largest number for their namesake; shock attacks. They charge full speed at their enemy, lances aimed at the heart of the formation. This comes with acceptance of the higher risks for a decisive result. However, they are not so accustomed to the full tide of battle – horses are harder to direct than your own feet, after all.

Bastion Riflemen

These soldiers are often picked out from the archers who show remarkable skill in sharpshooting, or are else trained relentlessly until they meet the expected standard. Once they are ready to see battle, they are equipped with a rifle, armour and a shield. While their duty to guard the Wall often gives new recruits reason to question the pavise, it often becomes the best cover for this unit on an open battlefield, allowing them to take shelter and reload behind a modicum of safety.

Gryphon Knights

The main force of Gryphon Knights accompany the Second Legion, under the command of Lord Niam. This is to counteract the mountainous terrain of the neighbouring Union, making it more difficult for foot soldiers, and particularly cavalry, to traverse potential battlefields. Trained to fight on the ground as well as in the air, these knights are not to be underestimated – because very few of them will underestimate you.

Bastion Skirmishers

These are among the last units to enter the fray – specifically because of their purpose. These fighters are to take advantage of the worn-down enemy, overwhelm them with speed and skill instead of number and strength. In order to preserve their energy and keep them fighting for longer, they forgo heavier weaponry and armour, weakening their protection.

The Dawn Guard, in times past, guarded every town and city in Evernyx, and patrols would be sent to villages every so often. However, when the demand for reinforcements to the Bastion came eight years ago, it was the Dawn Guard that would be forced to answer. Drastically reduced in number, the noble houses would divert their men to the cities and estates instead of the countryside – leaving them defenceless against raids that might slip past the border.

Dawn Arrows

As the foremost line of defence in any siege, the Arrows are posted in watchtowers and on walls and buildings alike, ready to drop stones and pour oil, throw javelins, and, indeed, shoot arrows. However, they’re often ill equipped for the heat of the melee, and will fall back if the enemy comes too close.

Dawn Shields

The main force of all city guards, these are the fighters you will see on the gates and in the streets. They know which are the major buildings to protect, and how one might create diversions for the enemy. They will not fight for every street and corner, but reluctantly. Expect difficult fighting from these.

The Moonstone Knights

Selena Moonstone was the first of the Knights – a mute woman in service to Rhea, who gave her all, body and soul, to protecting her. And her life. But others took up the service after her, taking her name. This would lead to the line of Royal Guards who you see accompanying all of the Grimoire line. Chosen and trained from birth, they are sworn to never speak a word unless the stars grace their sky. Silent and faceless, many believe them to be ruthless and possibly sadistic, awaiting the time when their bone-white armour is dyed red with blood.

To be extended.
The Oaken Vigil was founded by a group of individuals who were against the removal of the guards from the various towns and villages. While rather small in number, they are able to cover ground much faster than the Dawn Guard, and are able to fend off whatever small bands slip past the Wall. Many nobles consider them insurgents and rebels, but Prince Artem has met with their leader on multiple occasions, and the Vigil are ready to answer him should he call for them.

To be extended.
The Chevaliers serve as the defenders of Yuwanism in Evernyx, if that is an apt description. Be they the priestesses who serve as unofficial spell-casters alongside them, or the archers stationed on every floor of the Spire, each has chosen to dedicate their life to ensuring that Yuwan and Rhea stay strongly held to people’s hearts. And if the people’s hearts turn against Yuwan... but instead to a fallen servant, or to the false justice, they will be the ones to bring her back – with steel.

DRAMATIS PERSONAE:
 (All these will be expanded on a later date.)

Third child of Prince Nathair, to the Concubine Thea. The current ruler of Evernyx. Stern and tactical.

First child of Prince Nathair, to the Concubine Mala. General of the Bastion Guard. Fiercely loyal to his soldiers, and hardened by war.

Second child of Prince Nathair, to the Concubine Alessa. Serves as the official diplomat of Evernyx to Yuwanist allies.

Fourth child of Prince Nathair, to the Concubine Azure. Slave-master. Hot-headed and rude.

Fifth child of Prince Nathair, to the Concubine Huli. Twin of Leah. She runs the intelligence service throughout Evernyx. Cunning and flirtatious.

Sixth child of Prince Nathair, to the Concubine Huli. Twin of Shara. High Priestess, the voice of religion. Unafraid of the obstacles in her path.

Seventh child of Prince Nathair, to the Concubine Rua. Skilled in magic, and their leading researcher. Quiet and thoughtful.
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Previous heir to the lands of Hadden, though he has since been disowned. One of the three founders of, and the leader of the Oaken Vigil. He has encountered difficulty from some of his men, due to his high birth, but given he is one of the few members of the Vigil with formal training, he has yet to be contested.
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As the High Commander of the Chevaliers, Lord Elan serves Princess Leah, and Rhea herself, directly. Unlike most of his predecessors, he takes direct action alongside those under his command. Also unlike his predecessors, he earned his position and was not given it due to blood. There have also been rumours among the court that he and the High Priestess are lovers, despite the rule of abstinence.

EXTRA INFORMATION:

Full History: (Your nation’s history following the major eras/cycles. Remember to align it with the settings history, as it is hard for nations to live in an isolated bubble here)
List of Historical Grievances: Given its location, the Principality of Evernyx has long bordered both the Concilio Union and the Zul Empire. The recent, relatively catastrophic battle is just one example of the many clashes between the three.

Relations: 
Lamash: Allied. Evernyx received military support from Lamash as means of further securing the northern frontiers. However, tensions have become a little higher, given that the soldiers sent five years ago were lost in battle. However, twenty five thousand soldiers have been stationed in Evernyx since, and another contingent are en route.
The Republic of Drakma: Tense. The people of Evernyx are familiar with kobolds… given that the Union hosts them. And given that Evernyx will sacrifice or enslave most kobolds that are not killed in battle, many of the Drakman kobolds tend to be a little tense around them.
Cultural Notes: (Anything cultural of note or unique about the nation that isn’t mentioned under religious interpretations/culture)
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