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, possibly known as the Arcane Authority or the Divine Council, 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.
The country stretches from the Westguay Mire in the west to Windbrook Forest in the east and from the Coldbridge Slopes and White Peak Mountains in the north to the Southern Seas in the south. The largest five cities in the country enjoy a special status that confers them more protection and attention from the council. These are called imperial cities and are: Eisenberg, Sagemont, Thornhelm, Ostport and Aethel.
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 Ministry of Technology and Arcana 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.