Almeria

The Almerian Alliance (or simply known as Almeria) is a country on the continent of Iseron. It is a coalition of semi-autonomous cities, each ruled by a noble house, that control the area surrounding them. They are mostly self-governing, but they share together a number of administration functions and entities that rule certain aspects of the country. Each noble house carry titles and distinctions and have large properties and lands they own around the city.

Geography

The geography of Almeria presents a diverse and rich landscape that plays a significant role in its cultural, economic, and political life. The country's terrain is a tapestry of plains and rolling hills, crisscrossed by numerous rivers that serve as vital arteries for trade, agriculture, and communication among the semi-autonomous city-states that form the coalition. The expansive Westguay Mire in the west and the Lanshire Bog coupled with the dense Windbrook Forest in the east mark the natural boundaries of Almeria, creating natural defenses and contributing to the region's biodiversity.

The Sommercord mountains stretch majestically from north to south, dividing the country into eastern and western parts. This rugged spine is not only a geographic landmark but also a cultural and economic divider, with the only unification point being the strategic Graystone Pass. This narrow passageway is pivotal for trade, military movements, and the flow of people between the two halves of the country, making it a place of great strategic importance and often the center of political intrigue and military campaigns.

The northern border is shared with the foreboding Great Forest of Mirth and the Khentis Dynasty, from which Almeria gained its independence 40 years ago. This thick, verdant forest serves as a buffer against potential aggression from the north and is a source of legends, resources, and mystery for the Almerians. The southern boundary is lapped by the waves of the Southern Seas, opening up Almeria to trade, travel, and influence from distant lands beyond its shores.

Political structure

The political and administrative structure of Almeria is a complex tapestry that weaves together elements of feudalism, democracy, and a unique form of magic regulation. At the apex of this structure is the Council of the Five Lords, a governing body comprised of the rulers of the five imperial cities: Eisenberg, Sagemont, Thornhelm, Ostport, and Aethel. This council embodies the unity and collective leadership of Almeria, with Marquis Ermont Vaughn of Eisenberg currently at its helm.

Council of the Five Lords

The Council of the Five Lords is the supreme authority in Almeria, responsible for making decisions that affect the entire alliance. Each lord brings their city's perspective to the council, ensuring a representation of the diverse interests and challenges faced by the coalition. The council's responsibilities include setting foreign policy, regulating trade between the city-states, and coordinating collective defense strategies. Despite their overarching authority, the Council respects the autonomy of each city-state, allowing them to govern themselves in matters not explicitly under the Council's purview.

In addition to the permanent seats held by the lords, the council includes up to 12 temporary seats for advisors. These advisors are selected from among the notable figures in Almeria, including scholars, merchants, military commanders, and representatives of various guilds and organizations. Their role is to provide expertise and counsel to the lords, ensuring that a wide range of perspectives and interests are considered in decision-making processes.

City-State Autonomy

Each city-state within the Almerian Alliance retains a significant degree of self-governance. They are responsible for their local administration, justice systems, and economic policies. While they must adhere to the overarching regulations and directives issued by the Council of the Five Lords, they have the freedom to enact additional laws and policies that reflect their unique cultural, geographic, and economic circumstances. The imperial cities, enjoying special status, wield greater influence on the council and have more resources at their disposal, enabling them to play a pivotal role in the alliance's affairs.

Magic Regulation

A distinct and crucial aspect of Almeria's governance is the regulation of magic. The country has established a specific organization tasked with overseeing the use of magic within its borders. This organization, known as the Authority of Magic Department, sets the protocols for magic use, certifies practitioners, and enforces regulations to prevent misuse and ensure public safety. While magic is not outright banned in most cities, its use is heavily regulated and monitored, with certain cities like Thornhelm imposing stricter restrictions, allowing only divine magic and banning arcane practices altogether.

This organization has the power to issue licenses, conduct inspections, and impose penalties on those who violate its statutes. Its agents are highly trained in both magical and legal disciplines, making them formidable enforcers of the country's magic laws. The existence of this body underscores the complex relationship between magic and society in Almeria, balancing the need for control with the recognition of magic's potential benefits and dangers.

Economy

The economy of Almeria is as diverse and complex as its political landscape and geography. It is a blend of maritime and agricultural wealth, mining prowess, and strategic trade partnerships that fuel its prosperity. The economic activities within Almeria are greatly influenced by the geographical location and natural resources available to each city-state, creating a network of interdependent and specialized economies.

Maritime Trade and Agriculture

Eisenberg and Ostport, being prominent port-cities, anchor Almeria's economy through their robust maritime trade. These cities benefit from their strategic locations by the sea, facilitating extensive trade networks with foreign lands. Their ports are bustling hubs of commerce, where goods from across the world are traded, ranging from exotic spices and textiles to precious metals and magical artifacts. Agriculture also plays a significant role, with the fertile lands surrounding these cities producing a surplus of crops that are both consumed locally and exported, including grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Mining and Resource Extraction

Landlocked cities like Sagemont and Aethel, as well as Thornhelm and Kerbrug, capitalize on their rich deposits of minerals and gems. Sagemont, situated at the crossroads of two vital trade routes, not only thrives on trade but also on the extraction of iron, gold, and silver, which are in high demand for both domestic use and export. Aethel, nestled next to the mountains, and Kerbrug, located near both a large lake and mountainous terrain, are renowned for their mining operations, extracting valuable minerals and unique gemstones that contribute significantly to Almeria's economy.

Thornhelm, with its strategic position on an important river and its hilly landscape, has developed a dual economy. It leverages its natural resources through mining while also serving as a vital node in the inland trade network, facilitating the movement of goods across Almeria and beyond.

Trade Partnerships

Despite the historical tensions and reduced trade with the northern neighbor, the Khentis Dynasty, Almeria has forged strong economic ties with other regions. The main trade partner, Tol Elesseil, home to the high elves, plays a crucial role in Almeria's external trade. The high elves' sophisticated goods, magical items, and knowledge exchange add immense value to Almeria's economy.

The relationships with the four dwarven kingdoms of Cragstad, Uldarith, Ganlodir, and Min Baduhr introduce a steady flow of dwarven craftsmanship, metals, and technological innovations into Almeria. These kingdoms, renowned for their mining expertise and metallurgical products, find eager markets in Almeria.

Timbermere, the homeland of the halflings and under Almeria's protective alliance, contributes to Almeria's economy through agriculture, craftsmanship, and river trade. This symbiotic relationship enhances security and economic prosperity for both Almeria and Timbermere.

The western country of Batukhan, with its orcish tribes, stands as a contrast to these fruitful economic relationships. Limited trade interactions with Batukhan highlight the challenges and complexities of Almeria's foreign trade policies, influenced by historical, cultural, and geopolitical factors.

Culture

Almeria's culture is as diverse as its geography and political landscape, with each city-state contributing its unique flavor to the rich tapestry of the nation. The democratic nature of Almeria allows for a vibrant civil society where citizens actively participate in the governance and development of their communities, though the interpretation of democracy varies from city to city, reflecting their distinct identities and priorities.

Aethel's Militarism

In Aethel, the culture is deeply influenced by militarism. This city-state, nestled next to the formidable Sommercord mountains, has developed a society that values discipline, strength, and strategic acumen. Its citizens are trained from a young age in the arts of war, not only for defense but as a way of life that instills a sense of duty, honor, and solidarity. Military parades, ceremonies, and the celebration of martial achievements are common, reflecting Aethel's pride in its military prowess and its role as a guardian of Almeria's borders.

Thornhelm's Religious Devotion

Thornhelm stands out as a beacon of religious fervor within Almeria. This city-state has built its identity around a deep-seated spirituality, with its architecture, festivals, and daily routines infused with religious significance. Temples and shrines dot the landscape, and the city is known for its religious scholars, clerics, and paladins. Divine magic is celebrated and practiced openly, setting Thornhelm apart from its neighbors, particularly in its restriction against arcane magic within its walls.

Liberalism and Progress in Sagemont, Eisenberg, and Kerbrug

Sagemont, Eisenberg, and Kerbrug share a commitment to liberalism, technology, and development. These city-states are the hubs of innovation in Almeria, where academic institutions, guilds, and workshops thrive. Their cultures prize freedom of expression, inquiry, and the pursuit of knowledge, leading to advancements in magic, science, and the arts. Public forums, theaters, and libraries are common, serving as centers for cultural exchange and intellectual discourse. These cities embody the spirit of progress, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in pursuit of a better future.

Ostport's Traditionalism

Ostport contrasts with its more progressive counterparts by holding fast to tradition. This port-city reveres its maritime heritage, with customs and ceremonies that have been passed down through generations. Its culture is a celebration of the sea, with festivals that honor the ocean gods, and a lifestyle that respects the rhythms of nature. The people of Ostport are proud of their history, and while they engage in trade and interact with foreigners, they remain steadfast in preserving their traditional ways of life.

Cultural Synthesis

Despite their differences, the city-states of Almeria are united by a common identity as members of the Almerian Alliance. Festivals and markets serve as melting pots for the diverse cultures, allowing citizens from different city-states to share their traditions, cuisine, music, and arts. This cultural exchange fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect among the Almerians, who, despite their varied backgrounds, share a common heritage and destiny.

Notable organizations

• The Council of the Five Lords is the ruling body of the country comprised of the head person from each noble house. The council decides most political aspects of the country and are de facto rulers. The current leader of the council is the Marquis Ermont Vaughn, from the House of Vaughn in Eisenberg.
• The Authority of Magic Department is the administrative entity for education and magic, and controls the rules of magic use in the country. It’s headquarters are in Eisenberg but it has branches in all major cities. It enforces all the magic users and enchanters to conform to a certain protocol and has the authority to punish anyone who does not apply to its rules.
• The Antiquarian Association is a archeological guild involved in many of the excavation and exploration of the ancient ruins dotting the landscape.

History

The Almerian War of Independence

Almerian War of Independence (2137-2141)

The Khentis Dynasty has dominated a fair part of the continent of Iseron for almost 350 years. What is now as Almeria, it used to be separate cities that were conquered by the overwhelming force of the Khentis Dynasty and paid tribute. In the year 2137, these cities, having similar culture and interests, revolted against the republic and after a 4-year bloody war they formed the current coalition of Almeria.