After many edits, my nation sheet is now compelte!
Capital and Major Settlements
Region 1 - The Crownlands (Crown Hold - http://i.imgur.com/rhSR3KP.jpg)
Region 2 - Forests of Ellion (Lyari - http://i.imgur.com/z612YaG.jpg)
Region 3 - Lands of Ascard (Ascarden - http://i.imgur.com/dRRPU4Y.jpg)
Region 4 - Plains of Vigil (Saltrock - http://i.imgur.com/khRwYBN.jpg)
Region 5 - Plains of Filverel (Ruven - http://i.imgur.com/oGY2TDN.jpg)
Region 6 - Lower Frostpeaks (Region map to be updated soon)
The Crownlands
Within the Crownlands sits the capital city of Crown Hold. The Lord Protector of the Crownlands is the ruling monarch.
Forests of Ellion
Primarily inhabited by elves, the forest is home to several small villages and outposts that serve as areas of restbite for weary travellers. However, the main settlement is Lyari, an elven 'city amongst the trees'. The Lord Protector of Ellion is currently Maddox Blengrove. (http://i.imgur.com/UJl7B1J.jpg)
Lands of Ascard
Named after the first King of Eilean, King Ascard, the main settlement in this region is the city of Ascarden. Filled with mostly humans and elves from the nearby forests, the city has gradually grown to become the second-largest, after Crown Hold itself. The Lord Protector of Ascard is currently Gilroy Veroux. (http://i.imgur.com/k2o0zL0.jpg)
Plains of Vigil
This region is home to many farming and fishing communities, and is naturally vital to the nourishment of the Kingdom. The main city in the region is the Port of Saltrock. The third-largest city in the nation, the port is the main entry-point for merchants from overseas as a consequence of Crown Hold being landlocked, and naturally, Saltrock has become a hub of trade and wealth that is beginning to rival that found in Crown Hold. The Lord Protector of Vigil is currently Emmon Fremont. (http://i.imgur.com/p6jGf3f.jpg)
Plains of Filverel
Another region comprised mainly by farmland and small villages, Filverel is thus home to many small farming communities and small villages. The main settlement of the region, Ruven, is in stark contrast to the rest of Filverel, being filled with life. Merchants travelling by land that seek to avoid passing over the treacherous Frostpeaks will always journey through Filverel to instead travel across the plains into the territory beyond. Filverel is the first line of defence of Eilean, and is responsible for guarding the border of Eilean that lacks a natural defence such as a mountains or a river. To achieve this, Filverel is tasked with maintaining the various keeps that has been constructed from the Frostpeaks to the ocean and a large portion of the Eilean land-based military is stationed here. The Lord Protector of Filverel is currently Thomas Val'Claire. (http://i.imgur.com/nh42Gz6.jpg)
The Lower-Frostpeaks
Home to many of the dwarves in Eilean, the Frostpeaks are anything but pleasant to outsiders. The mountains were appropriately named the 'Frostpeaks' because of the biting cold and, to many unfortunate travellers, deadly-thick snow. Yet the dwarves not only prevail in this environment, they thrive. Digging deep into the base of the mountains, the dwarves are constantly discovering new veins of ore, constructing expansions to their underground outposts and cities and providing for much of the Kingdom's wealth. In recognition of their efforts, the dwarves were the first non-human race in Eilean to have some of their people elevated to nobility. The Lord Protector of the Lower-Frostpeaks is currently Dingrim Harrowhall. (http://i.imgur.com/OUef25q.jpg)
Ruler and Royal Family
Ruling House - House Farrow
King Eadwin Farrow (Recently Deceased)
Queen Abigail Farrow (Recently Deceased)
King Enor Farrow (21)
(Future Queen) Lady Elspeth Fremont (18)
Prince Edywn Farrow (19)
Princess Esmae Farrow (18)
Princess Gwendolyn Farrow (17)
Princess Florence Farrow (15)
Peoples
Primarily Human
Elves a common sight - albeit in fewer number than humans.
Dwarves occupy the areas nearer the mountains.
Culture
Eilean is, for better or worse, somewhat reminiscent of a medieval kingdom found in central Europe. Class division is an accepted and natural part of life, with the six major houses of nobility essentially ruling the nation. The peasantry and middle-classes are expected to look upon the nobility as their betters, and it has been this way as long as any can remember, with no signs of the social ladder changing anytime soon.
Military
Eilean boasts a diverse and moderately-sized military comprised predominantly of elves and humans, though several dwarven regiments do exist. The focus of the Eilean military is certainly on their knights, though by no means has any expense has been spared with the Eilean infantry and archers. In fact, almost every soldier in the Eilean military is well-equipped with light-plate armour and their weapon of choice, depending on which category of soldier they fall into. Likewise, every soldier in the Eilean army is provided the signature yellow cloak and dye that distinguishes them as soldiers of Eilean, a fact they are supposed to hold dear and with pride.
Eilean is very much focused around the ideal of Knighthood, with the dream of one day becoming a Knight to 'protect the weak and uphold the good' being held by many children. The reality, however, is entirely different. Knights are looked upon as minor nobility, therefore meaning the rank is typically achieved by only the educated and reasonably wealthy (though there are, of course, exceptions). Indeed, a Knight is even granted small holdings of his own.
Yet this has not limited the Eilean Cavalry. Years of squiring, and intense training specifically for the role, have led to the development of a very professional cavalry force. Once Knighted, regular tournaments and jousts provide a competitive incentive across the Kingdom during peace-time, to ensure the Knights maintain a high standard in the profession.
The backbone of any military is the infantry, and the case is no different with the forces of Eilean. Undoubtedly the largest contingent of the Eilean military, the infantry is almost as well-equipped as the cavalry. Most infantry wear light-plate armour to offer moderate protection, while not restricting movement too much. It is rare to see a fully-plated infantry soldier, that is not a Knight. As for weaponry, the infantry is divided into regiments with weapon specialisations. Some may use pikes (these regiments are generally found on the front-lines), others a spear/shield combination and others a sword/shield combination.
Generally, the lower classes are the most commonly found footsoldiers, with the more high-brow and educated of society opting to go down the route of becoming a squire, and eventually a knight.
For those in the infantry that have shown particular prowess with a bow, and after having served for a minimum of two years, they can choose to 'specialise' and join the Eilean Rangers.
The Rangers, while primarily ranged, are as skilled in melee combat as they are at ranged. It is the duty of the Rangers to perform scouting detail along the mountains that form Eilean's natural defence, as well as being charged with the defence of the mountain-border and the defence of Frostpeak-Pass (The mountainless gap between the Frostpeaks and the ocean)
An elite unit of ten men, and two elven males, they are tasked with the protection of the King and, by extension, the Royal Household at all times. The members of the Crownguard is supposedly comprised of the greatest Knights and Rangers of the realm, for only the greatest and most competent men can be granted the honour of protecting the Royal Household.
Somewhat controversially, the Crownguard has recently come under the command of an elf for the first time, Falael Seelorn
Economy
Taxation in the Kingdom of Eilean is overseen by the Royal Treasury. In addition to each region paying a 'seasonal tax' to the crown, the merchants, landlords and other land-owners also find themselves subject to light taxation. The tax has remained relatively low and has become an accepted way of life over the generations.
The Capital City of Crown Hold is the seat of extravagance and opulence within the Kingdom of Eilean. With construction having only recently been completed 30 years ago, the city was built purely with the aim to please the eye in a breath-taking manner. While the move was criticised by some, with the construction undoubtedly being the most costly project Eilean has ever undertaken, it more than achieved its aim of making a statement about the success Eilean has found on Seyan. Even if, for all the grandeur and confidence Crown Hold projects, the inner-workings of Eilean are far more fragile.
Remaining the main source of income to Eilean are the jewels of the Frostpeaks. The discovery of precious gems and jewels (though little in the way of material for industry, such as iron, was discovered) has led to Eilean becoming a large exporter of jewellery and precious golds, trinkets and other such accessories. The profits from such a trade allow for Eilean to import most of the more basic materials needed for armour plates and weapons.
Reputation
The Kingdom of Eilean has never looked to make enemies, and it is likely known across Seyan for being increasingly more and more of an appeaser, looking to avoid any sort of conflict or war no matter the cost. Successively 'weaker', or 'push-over', Kings can be viewed in two lights by outsiders. On the one hand, supporters of House Farrow believe their attempts to build positive relations and avoid war make them appear sensible, rational and good-natured. Yet the critics of such a foreign policy, one of appeasement, believe this has made the Kingdom appear increasingly weaker to outsiders.
Eilean is certainly, at present, a nation of 'summer kings and nobles'. Its tournaments, jousts and social gatherings of the nobility are known across Seyan as grand affairs of luxury and fine entertainment, though some may question how well 'playing knights' and attending parties will prepare the nation for possible hardships and, in particular, wars.
History
A recent addition to the nations of Seyan, Eilean was founded not much more than 300 years ago. Arriving initially as an extension of an Empire on the mainland of Aismir. House Farrow, a house of nobility belonging to this Empire of the mainland, was given the authority over the colony while Houses Val'Claire, Fremont, Blengrove and Veroux were also relocated to the new lands. Eilean flourished for roughly 100 years under the rule of the Empire, and it was during this time that Eilean was able to undergo a rapid expansion to carve out that borders that remain to this day, for they had a regular supply of troops and other vital resources from the mainland. However, the Empire they were sworn too saw a sharp decline not long after 100 years of rule over Eilean, a result of both external and internal conflicts.
Boldy seeing an opportunity to become their own masters, Lord Ascard Farrow negotiated with the Empire for terms of independence. With little means to even prevent the colony from simply declaring themselves independent, the Empire relented and granted Eilean her independence, while also elevating her status to that of a Kingdom. For 200 years, Eilean has remained with unchanged borders in relative peace and has yet to declare war against any other nation on Seyan, a result of the peace-seeking natures of the Royal House Farrow, as well as House Val'Claire and House Fremont.
Only in recent years has conflict brewed within Eilean, with Houses Veroux and Blengrove growing tired of the status quo, believing Eilean has the potential to achieve far greater heights on the island of Seyan. The gradually growing tensions truly began under the reign of King Eadwin Farrow, the previous king. Despite his efforts to placate Houses Veroux and Blengrove by offering them additional titles and positions of somewhat higher authority, he refused to allow his house to marry into either House Veroux and Blengrove, effectively shutting them out of the true power and influence akin to that Houses Val'Claire and Fremont have found through close-ties with House Farrow. For while he wished to keep Houses Veroux and Blengrove reasonably 'happy', he was all too aware of their desire for change and territorial expansion, something he believed would bring ruin to Eilean, subscribing entirely to the philosophy 'if it isn't broke, don't fix it'. This insult and power-block did not go unnoticed to the increasingly affronted households, and amongst themselves they began a plot through which they plan to increase their sway over the Kingdom and 'get it back on track' through the militaristic ideologies they hold dear. Their plan was 'simple'. They aimed to kill the King, and thrive in the inevitable chaos that would follow.
In the year before present, King Eadwin Farrow travelled, along with his wife Queen Abigaile and the then-Seneschal Harold Val'Claire, from Crown Hold to Saltrock by sea in what was to be a typical gathering of the three allied households, Houses Farrow, Fremont and Val'Claire. The trio, along with their assigned guard, would never reach Ruven. With no known survivors of the incident, whatever it was, it is entirely unknown to many what happened and the tragedy has been attributed to an 'accident at sea'. The reality is far from an accident, with Houses Veroux and Blengrove having meticulously planned and brought into fruition a plan to have the three, and all on-board their ship, murdered.
One month after the disappearance of King Eadwin, King Enor was crowned. Enor is, much like his father, a maintainer of the status-quo and is unwilling to accept the idea that anything foul was involved in the disappearance of his parents and Seneschal Val'Claire, for in doing so he would undoubtedly find himself in a civil war. Now being thrust into the role of King at a most troubled time for Eilean, and in an effort to placate Houses Veroux and Blengrove, Enor has appointed Lord Alwyn Veroux as Seneschal of the Realm, the first time anybody outside the Households of Farrow, Fremont or Val'Claire has held the position. Yet this move alone will not sate their growing desire for power indefinitely, and the future of Eilean looks as though the peace that many have fought so hard to maintain, will soon find itself in tatters.
Misc
Lady Elspeth Fremont has recently arrived in Crown Hold for her marriage to the ruling monarch, King Enor Farrow. The two have been close since childhood, and the entire nation has been captivated by their idyllic relationship finally coming to a new chapter, with their marriage.
Amongst the nobility, House Veroux has been quietly grumbling after the rejection of their proposed marriage between Lord Alwyn Veroux, his wife having recently passed, and Princess Esmae Farrow.
Rumours have spread amongst the serfdom and nobility alike that Prince Edwyn is involved in an incestuous relationship with his sister, Princess Esmae.
It is an unspoken truth that there are two factions amongst the major noble houses. Those who prefer peace achieved through appeasement and diplomacy, and those who believe the constant pursuit of peace has only weakened the image of Eilean, instead themselves of the belief that Eilean should return to her more militaristic roots and be more assertive on the international stage.
Those who believe in maintaining the status quo, and keeping the peace, are Houses Farrow, Val'Claire and Fremont. On the other side of the coin, are Houses Veroux and Blengrove.
Capital and Major Settlements
Region 1 - The Crownlands (Crown Hold - http://i.imgur.com/rhSR3KP.jpg)
Region 2 - Forests of Ellion (Lyari - http://i.imgur.com/z612YaG.jpg)
Region 3 - Lands of Ascard (Ascarden - http://i.imgur.com/dRRPU4Y.jpg)
Region 4 - Plains of Vigil (Saltrock - http://i.imgur.com/khRwYBN.jpg)
Region 5 - Plains of Filverel (Ruven - http://i.imgur.com/oGY2TDN.jpg)
Region 6 - Lower Frostpeaks (Region map to be updated soon)
In order to ensure the Kingdom is appropriately managed, it was divided into regions. Each region has a noble family that 'oversee' the province, with the patriarch of such a family being designated the 'Lord Protector' of the land. This allows each region to be managed properly, and by those who know the region best, in place of a King who rarely visits the area. Or, at least, that was the intention. Increasingly, the nobility have become more and more autonomous, though none have yet dared challenge the authority of the ruling House Farrow. Not only that, but the layers of bureaucracy and relative independence for the ruling nobility has made way for dangerously high levels of corruption within the Kingdom, a problem that has been identified by House Farrow, albeit not rectified.
The Crownlands
Within the Crownlands sits the capital city of Crown Hold. The Lord Protector of the Crownlands is the ruling monarch.
Forests of Ellion
Primarily inhabited by elves, the forest is home to several small villages and outposts that serve as areas of restbite for weary travellers. However, the main settlement is Lyari, an elven 'city amongst the trees'. The Lord Protector of Ellion is currently Maddox Blengrove. (http://i.imgur.com/UJl7B1J.jpg)
Lands of Ascard
Named after the first King of Eilean, King Ascard, the main settlement in this region is the city of Ascarden. Filled with mostly humans and elves from the nearby forests, the city has gradually grown to become the second-largest, after Crown Hold itself. The Lord Protector of Ascard is currently Gilroy Veroux. (http://i.imgur.com/k2o0zL0.jpg)
Plains of Vigil
This region is home to many farming and fishing communities, and is naturally vital to the nourishment of the Kingdom. The main city in the region is the Port of Saltrock. The third-largest city in the nation, the port is the main entry-point for merchants from overseas as a consequence of Crown Hold being landlocked, and naturally, Saltrock has become a hub of trade and wealth that is beginning to rival that found in Crown Hold. The Lord Protector of Vigil is currently Emmon Fremont. (http://i.imgur.com/p6jGf3f.jpg)
Plains of Filverel
Another region comprised mainly by farmland and small villages, Filverel is thus home to many small farming communities and small villages. The main settlement of the region, Ruven, is in stark contrast to the rest of Filverel, being filled with life. Merchants travelling by land that seek to avoid passing over the treacherous Frostpeaks will always journey through Filverel to instead travel across the plains into the territory beyond. Filverel is the first line of defence of Eilean, and is responsible for guarding the border of Eilean that lacks a natural defence such as a mountains or a river. To achieve this, Filverel is tasked with maintaining the various keeps that has been constructed from the Frostpeaks to the ocean and a large portion of the Eilean land-based military is stationed here. The Lord Protector of Filverel is currently Thomas Val'Claire. (http://i.imgur.com/nh42Gz6.jpg)
The Lower-Frostpeaks
Home to many of the dwarves in Eilean, the Frostpeaks are anything but pleasant to outsiders. The mountains were appropriately named the 'Frostpeaks' because of the biting cold and, to many unfortunate travellers, deadly-thick snow. Yet the dwarves not only prevail in this environment, they thrive. Digging deep into the base of the mountains, the dwarves are constantly discovering new veins of ore, constructing expansions to their underground outposts and cities and providing for much of the Kingdom's wealth. In recognition of their efforts, the dwarves were the first non-human race in Eilean to have some of their people elevated to nobility. The Lord Protector of the Lower-Frostpeaks is currently Dingrim Harrowhall. (http://i.imgur.com/OUef25q.jpg)
Ruler and Royal Family
Ruling House - House Farrow
King Eadwin Farrow (Recently Deceased)
Queen Abigail Farrow (Recently Deceased)
King Enor Farrow (21)
(Future Queen) Lady Elspeth Fremont (18)
Prince Edywn Farrow (19)
Princess Esmae Farrow (18)
Princess Gwendolyn Farrow (17)
Princess Florence Farrow (15)
Seneschal Alwyn Veroux (36)
The Seneschal is, put very simply, the second-most powerful figure in Eilean. They are the right-hand of the King, and speak with the authority of the King in his absence. Daily duties of the Seneschal include advising the King, handling the trivial tasks the King does not have the time nor patience for, and to hold court on behalf of the King, should the need arise.
Lady Lillith Blengrove (28)
The Lady of House Blengrove, and the wife of House Patriarch Maddox Blengrove. Known across the realm for not only her beauty, but her political astuteness. There are whispers among the nobility that it is in fact Lady Lillith that rules House Blengrove, whispering in the ear of her far more 'simple' husband to bend his will and further fulfil her growing desire for power.
Lady Alais Elian (89)
Lady Elian is a figurehead for the Elves of Ellion. She is living proof of how well elves can adapt to society within Eilean, and she has become somewhat of a leading voice for further representation of the elven people amongst the nobility, having become a noble herself. Needless to say, the elves trust and heed her word far more than that of their official 'Lord Protector of Ellion', a human.
The Seneschal is, put very simply, the second-most powerful figure in Eilean. They are the right-hand of the King, and speak with the authority of the King in his absence. Daily duties of the Seneschal include advising the King, handling the trivial tasks the King does not have the time nor patience for, and to hold court on behalf of the King, should the need arise.
Lady Lillith Blengrove (28)
The Lady of House Blengrove, and the wife of House Patriarch Maddox Blengrove. Known across the realm for not only her beauty, but her political astuteness. There are whispers among the nobility that it is in fact Lady Lillith that rules House Blengrove, whispering in the ear of her far more 'simple' husband to bend his will and further fulfil her growing desire for power.
Lady Alais Elian (89)
Lady Elian is a figurehead for the Elves of Ellion. She is living proof of how well elves can adapt to society within Eilean, and she has become somewhat of a leading voice for further representation of the elven people amongst the nobility, having become a noble herself. Needless to say, the elves trust and heed her word far more than that of their official 'Lord Protector of Ellion', a human.
Major Noble Houses
House Farrow
House Fremont
House Veroux
House Val'Claire
House Blengrove
House Harrowhall
House Farrow
House Fremont
House Veroux
House Val'Claire
House Blengrove
House Harrowhall
Peoples
Primarily Human
Elves a common sight - albeit in fewer number than humans.
Dwarves occupy the areas nearer the mountains.
Kingdom Traits
Wondrous Beauty
Developed Infrastructure
Military Traits
Awe Inspiring Fortifications
Jousting Lords
Knowledge of War
Sieging Genius
Good Equipment
Ships
Trade Traits
Agriculture
Rich with Ores
Ports
Flaws
Not a Flawless Family (2)
Corruption
Arguable Claims
Wondrous Beauty
Developed Infrastructure
Military Traits
Awe Inspiring Fortifications
Jousting Lords
Knowledge of War
Sieging Genius
Good Equipment
Ships
Trade Traits
Agriculture
Rich with Ores
Ports
Flaws
Not a Flawless Family (2)
Corruption
Arguable Claims
Culture
Eilean is, for better or worse, somewhat reminiscent of a medieval kingdom found in central Europe. Class division is an accepted and natural part of life, with the six major houses of nobility essentially ruling the nation. The peasantry and middle-classes are expected to look upon the nobility as their betters, and it has been this way as long as any can remember, with no signs of the social ladder changing anytime soon.
Military
Eilean boasts a diverse and moderately-sized military comprised predominantly of elves and humans, though several dwarven regiments do exist. The focus of the Eilean military is certainly on their knights, though by no means has any expense has been spared with the Eilean infantry and archers. In fact, almost every soldier in the Eilean military is well-equipped with light-plate armour and their weapon of choice, depending on which category of soldier they fall into. Likewise, every soldier in the Eilean army is provided the signature yellow cloak and dye that distinguishes them as soldiers of Eilean, a fact they are supposed to hold dear and with pride.
Eilean is very much focused around the ideal of Knighthood, with the dream of one day becoming a Knight to 'protect the weak and uphold the good' being held by many children. The reality, however, is entirely different. Knights are looked upon as minor nobility, therefore meaning the rank is typically achieved by only the educated and reasonably wealthy (though there are, of course, exceptions). Indeed, a Knight is even granted small holdings of his own.
Yet this has not limited the Eilean Cavalry. Years of squiring, and intense training specifically for the role, have led to the development of a very professional cavalry force. Once Knighted, regular tournaments and jousts provide a competitive incentive across the Kingdom during peace-time, to ensure the Knights maintain a high standard in the profession.
The backbone of any military is the infantry, and the case is no different with the forces of Eilean. Undoubtedly the largest contingent of the Eilean military, the infantry is almost as well-equipped as the cavalry. Most infantry wear light-plate armour to offer moderate protection, while not restricting movement too much. It is rare to see a fully-plated infantry soldier, that is not a Knight. As for weaponry, the infantry is divided into regiments with weapon specialisations. Some may use pikes (these regiments are generally found on the front-lines), others a spear/shield combination and others a sword/shield combination.
Generally, the lower classes are the most commonly found footsoldiers, with the more high-brow and educated of society opting to go down the route of becoming a squire, and eventually a knight.
For those in the infantry that have shown particular prowess with a bow, and after having served for a minimum of two years, they can choose to 'specialise' and join the Eilean Rangers.
The Rangers, while primarily ranged, are as skilled in melee combat as they are at ranged. It is the duty of the Rangers to perform scouting detail along the mountains that form Eilean's natural defence, as well as being charged with the defence of the mountain-border and the defence of Frostpeak-Pass (The mountainless gap between the Frostpeaks and the ocean)
An elite unit of ten men, and two elven males, they are tasked with the protection of the King and, by extension, the Royal Household at all times. The members of the Crownguard is supposedly comprised of the greatest Knights and Rangers of the realm, for only the greatest and most competent men can be granted the honour of protecting the Royal Household.
Somewhat controversially, the Crownguard has recently come under the command of an elf for the first time, Falael Seelorn
Economy
Taxation in the Kingdom of Eilean is overseen by the Royal Treasury. In addition to each region paying a 'seasonal tax' to the crown, the merchants, landlords and other land-owners also find themselves subject to light taxation. The tax has remained relatively low and has become an accepted way of life over the generations.
The Capital City of Crown Hold is the seat of extravagance and opulence within the Kingdom of Eilean. With construction having only recently been completed 30 years ago, the city was built purely with the aim to please the eye in a breath-taking manner. While the move was criticised by some, with the construction undoubtedly being the most costly project Eilean has ever undertaken, it more than achieved its aim of making a statement about the success Eilean has found on Seyan. Even if, for all the grandeur and confidence Crown Hold projects, the inner-workings of Eilean are far more fragile.
Remaining the main source of income to Eilean are the jewels of the Frostpeaks. The discovery of precious gems and jewels (though little in the way of material for industry, such as iron, was discovered) has led to Eilean becoming a large exporter of jewellery and precious golds, trinkets and other such accessories. The profits from such a trade allow for Eilean to import most of the more basic materials needed for armour plates and weapons.
Reputation
The Kingdom of Eilean has never looked to make enemies, and it is likely known across Seyan for being increasingly more and more of an appeaser, looking to avoid any sort of conflict or war no matter the cost. Successively 'weaker', or 'push-over', Kings can be viewed in two lights by outsiders. On the one hand, supporters of House Farrow believe their attempts to build positive relations and avoid war make them appear sensible, rational and good-natured. Yet the critics of such a foreign policy, one of appeasement, believe this has made the Kingdom appear increasingly weaker to outsiders.
Eilean is certainly, at present, a nation of 'summer kings and nobles'. Its tournaments, jousts and social gatherings of the nobility are known across Seyan as grand affairs of luxury and fine entertainment, though some may question how well 'playing knights' and attending parties will prepare the nation for possible hardships and, in particular, wars.
History
A recent addition to the nations of Seyan, Eilean was founded not much more than 300 years ago. Arriving initially as an extension of an Empire on the mainland of Aismir. House Farrow, a house of nobility belonging to this Empire of the mainland, was given the authority over the colony while Houses Val'Claire, Fremont, Blengrove and Veroux were also relocated to the new lands. Eilean flourished for roughly 100 years under the rule of the Empire, and it was during this time that Eilean was able to undergo a rapid expansion to carve out that borders that remain to this day, for they had a regular supply of troops and other vital resources from the mainland. However, the Empire they were sworn too saw a sharp decline not long after 100 years of rule over Eilean, a result of both external and internal conflicts.
Boldy seeing an opportunity to become their own masters, Lord Ascard Farrow negotiated with the Empire for terms of independence. With little means to even prevent the colony from simply declaring themselves independent, the Empire relented and granted Eilean her independence, while also elevating her status to that of a Kingdom. For 200 years, Eilean has remained with unchanged borders in relative peace and has yet to declare war against any other nation on Seyan, a result of the peace-seeking natures of the Royal House Farrow, as well as House Val'Claire and House Fremont.
Only in recent years has conflict brewed within Eilean, with Houses Veroux and Blengrove growing tired of the status quo, believing Eilean has the potential to achieve far greater heights on the island of Seyan. The gradually growing tensions truly began under the reign of King Eadwin Farrow, the previous king. Despite his efforts to placate Houses Veroux and Blengrove by offering them additional titles and positions of somewhat higher authority, he refused to allow his house to marry into either House Veroux and Blengrove, effectively shutting them out of the true power and influence akin to that Houses Val'Claire and Fremont have found through close-ties with House Farrow. For while he wished to keep Houses Veroux and Blengrove reasonably 'happy', he was all too aware of their desire for change and territorial expansion, something he believed would bring ruin to Eilean, subscribing entirely to the philosophy 'if it isn't broke, don't fix it'. This insult and power-block did not go unnoticed to the increasingly affronted households, and amongst themselves they began a plot through which they plan to increase their sway over the Kingdom and 'get it back on track' through the militaristic ideologies they hold dear. Their plan was 'simple'. They aimed to kill the King, and thrive in the inevitable chaos that would follow.
In the year before present, King Eadwin Farrow travelled, along with his wife Queen Abigaile and the then-Seneschal Harold Val'Claire, from Crown Hold to Saltrock by sea in what was to be a typical gathering of the three allied households, Houses Farrow, Fremont and Val'Claire. The trio, along with their assigned guard, would never reach Ruven. With no known survivors of the incident, whatever it was, it is entirely unknown to many what happened and the tragedy has been attributed to an 'accident at sea'. The reality is far from an accident, with Houses Veroux and Blengrove having meticulously planned and brought into fruition a plan to have the three, and all on-board their ship, murdered.
One month after the disappearance of King Eadwin, King Enor was crowned. Enor is, much like his father, a maintainer of the status-quo and is unwilling to accept the idea that anything foul was involved in the disappearance of his parents and Seneschal Val'Claire, for in doing so he would undoubtedly find himself in a civil war. Now being thrust into the role of King at a most troubled time for Eilean, and in an effort to placate Houses Veroux and Blengrove, Enor has appointed Lord Alwyn Veroux as Seneschal of the Realm, the first time anybody outside the Households of Farrow, Fremont or Val'Claire has held the position. Yet this move alone will not sate their growing desire for power indefinitely, and the future of Eilean looks as though the peace that many have fought so hard to maintain, will soon find itself in tatters.
Misc
Lady Elspeth Fremont has recently arrived in Crown Hold for her marriage to the ruling monarch, King Enor Farrow. The two have been close since childhood, and the entire nation has been captivated by their idyllic relationship finally coming to a new chapter, with their marriage.
Amongst the nobility, House Veroux has been quietly grumbling after the rejection of their proposed marriage between Lord Alwyn Veroux, his wife having recently passed, and Princess Esmae Farrow.
Rumours have spread amongst the serfdom and nobility alike that Prince Edwyn is involved in an incestuous relationship with his sister, Princess Esmae.
It is an unspoken truth that there are two factions amongst the major noble houses. Those who prefer peace achieved through appeasement and diplomacy, and those who believe the constant pursuit of peace has only weakened the image of Eilean, instead themselves of the belief that Eilean should return to her more militaristic roots and be more assertive on the international stage.
Those who believe in maintaining the status quo, and keeping the peace, are Houses Farrow, Val'Claire and Fremont. On the other side of the coin, are Houses Veroux and Blengrove.
