The next morning Sin wakes up more quickly than usual, washes his face, drinks his hot milk and leaves clutching the booklet anxiously to continue his reading, for him that was exciting and emotional. From a very young age Sin had a very strong desire to travel and get to know the whole world, that little moment was when he could look at the world through the eyes of another writer, but with each word read from that booklet the desire to be the next explorer grew more and more.
He returns to the same tree he was sitting at the day before and sits down again and opens the booklet.
The Lands of the Kijin
In the Lands of the Kijin, north of Gallea, lies a mosaic of tribes and cultures, united under the banner of diversity and resilience. Peora, the capital and pulsating heart of this set of communities, is more than a mere village; it is a symbol of the union and strength of the demi-humans who call these lands home. Despite its northern location, these lands enjoy a generous Mediterranean climate, favoring agriculture, especially rice cultivation. The plantations, often flooded by abundant rains, become fertile cradles not only for rice but also for a variety of rotational crops, sustaining the local economy.
The social structure of the Kijin Lands is as unique as its geography. Composed of several tribes of demi-humans, led by the Kijin, the region still struggles to solidify itself as a cohesive society. Diversity is both a strength and a challenge, with each tribe maintaining its distinct identity while sharing the common goal of prosperity and security. Fishing, alongside agriculture, is another pillar sustaining the local economy, thanks to the rich, generous waters that wash their lands.
Militarily, the Kijin Lands present a picture of disorganization, reflecting its fragmented social structure. However, the nature of the terrain, which turns into a vast swampland during rainy periods, serves as a natural defense against invasions, making external attacks a formidable challenge.
Politically, the Kijin Lands are governed by a complex system, in which, despite the presence of an supreme king, the King of the Kijin, each demi-human tribe has its representative on the Council of Peoples. This council is a microcosm of Kijin Lands society, reflecting its diversity and the inherent tensions in governing such a heterogeneous people. Despite internal disputes and challenges, the final word belongs to the King of the Kijin, whose decision seeks to balance the interests of all tribes under his domain.
Therefore, the Kijin Lands are a representation of the power of diversity and adaptability. In a world where homogeneity is often seen as a prerequisite for strength, this set of tribes proves that unity can be forged in difference, and that the richness of a society is measured not only by its economy or military power, but by the ability of its members to coexist, thrive and grow together despite their many differences.
The Lands of Krakoom
In northern Gallea, where the law of the jungle prevails over the norms of human civilization, lie the Lands of Krakoom, a wild kingdom where the beast-men reign supreme. Named in homage to Krakoom, the legendary werewolf who eras ago unified the tribes under his fierce leadership, this country is a tapestry of strength, courage and the indomitable will to remain free and sovereign.
The economy of Krakoom Lands is a reflection of its people: primitive, based on hunting and plundering spoils. Incursions into neighboring territories, such as the Kijin Lands and Nannu, are both a means of sustenance and a declaration of strength and independence. This is a country where wealth is not measured in gold or accumulated goods, but in the ability to survive and thrive against all adversity.
Ipsom, the capital, is not a city in the traditional sense, but an imposing war fortress. Here, the Warlords who succeeded Krakoom rule, perpetuating his legacy of conquest and domination. The architecture and layout of the capital reflect the warlike nature of its inhabitants, designed both to inspire fear in the hearts of enemies and serve as an impenetrable bastion against invaders.
The Krakoom Lands stretch from the north, with its Taiga climate, to the heart of the continent, where the heat is more intense. Despite this climatic diversity, the beast-men, with their resilience and adaptation, see the environment not as a challenge but as yet another arena to demonstrate their strength. The proximity of the Nuumea River to the north means little to these tribes that prize hunting and conquest above agriculture or trade.
Currently, the country is ruled by the werewolf Warlord Agun, a wild panther man who, like his predecessors, sees war not just as a means of survival but as an art to be perfected and celebrated. Under his leadership, Krakoom Lands continue to honor the traditions of its foundation, remaining a feared and respected power, where might makes right and freedom is conquered through power and cunning.
Therefore, Krakoom Lands serve as a living reminder that, in Gallea, diversity extends not only to landscapes and climates but also to the many ways in which its peoples choose to live, fight and rule in a world where the only constant is change.
Elaria
Elaria, the sacred land of the elves, is a mosaic of natural beauty and arcane wonders, a jewel set in the heart of Gallea. This country, the oldest among all the structured kingdoms of the continent, is a living testimony to the perfect harmony between nature and magic, a utopia forged over immemorial eras. Here, the economy flourishes under the mantle of sustainability, with the elves cultivating their lands with a deep respect for natural cycles, ensuring that Elaria never knows scarcity.
Surrounded by an aura of mystery, Elaria is a kingdom that deliberately remains secluded, its borders open only to a few fortunate outsiders. Such isolation is not out of fear, but a conscious choice to preserve the purity of its essence and the integrity of its ancestral traditions. The magical structures that dot the landscape, relics of Gallea's early history, are both monuments to elven wisdom and sentinels of a glorious past.
High King Ellanon, a figure of formidable intellect and immeasurable magical power, reigns over Elaria with a vision that transcends time. His leadership, marked by wisdom and contemplation, ensures that Elaria continues to be a stronghold of knowledge, magic, and ecological balance.
The geography of Elaria reflects its cultural and spiritual diversity, encompassing majestic mountains and fertile plains, dense forests full of ancient mysteries, and clearings where moonlight dances upon the land. Winding rivers and thundering waterfalls nourish this blessed land, creating rich ecosystems that sustain a vast array of life, both common and magical.
Located more toward the center of Gallea, Elaria enjoys a predominantly tropical and semi-tropical climate, favoring the lushness of its flora and fauna. This is a country where each dawn reveals new wonders, and each dusk is an invitation to reflect upon the beauty and transience of existence.
In sum, Elaria is a symphony of natural beauty and magic enchantment, a kingdom where elves live in perfect harmony with the world around them. It is a reminder that, in Gallea, there are places where time seems to dance to the rhythm of nature, and magic is as real as the air one breathes.
The Luminus Theocracy
In a solemn corner of Gallea rises the Theocracy of Luminus, a nation whose very existence is deeply intertwined with the tenets of faith. Ruled with an iron fist under the aegis of the Church of Luminus, this country is a beacon of spiritual devotion, attracting pilgrims from all corners of the continent seeking enlightenment and sanctity. The Limias, who occupies the golden throne, is not merely a temporal leader; they are seen as God's emissary on earth, humanity's closest link to the divine.
The economy of Luminus thrives through the delicate and artistic trade of silk and tapestries, products of an ancestral manual skill that is as revered as the religious practices that permeate the country's daily life. Each piece, woven with spiritual fervor, is a materialized prayer, a testament to the faith that guides this people.
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Secras, the capital, is more than a city; it is a hymn to Luminus's glory, crystallized in the majestic Cathedral of the Great Light. This imposing structure, able to shelter a congregation of 32,000 souls simultaneously, is not merely a place of worship, but the pulsating heart of the nation, where the divine light bathes all who enter seeking solace and spiritual guidance.
Despite the tropical climate that embraces its lands, Luminus is a nation of tranquil plains and forests, where rain is rare and each sunray is interpreted as a blessing. The lack of geographic variation does not diminish, however, the complexity and depth of its culture and faith.
The army of the Theocracy of Luminus is unique, composed of warrior monks and divine priests, masters in the art of sacred magic. They defend the country not only with physical weapons but with the power of faith, an impenetrable shield against forces that would dare profane its holy lands.
Secras, the sacred metropolis, is a manifestation of Luminus's religion, a city built upon the foundations of unwavering faith. With a population of approximately 2.7 million, Luminus is a welcoming home for all who worship its god, ensuring that any devotee feels part of a greater and eternal community.
Thus, the Theocracy of Luminus is a study in contrast: a country that combines a hierarchical rigor with spiritual welcoming, where the light of faith guides the way, and the promise of communion with the divine attracts souls from all parts of Gallea seeking refuge, wisdom, and the peace that only true belief can offer.
Sultanate of Bahamut
In the pulsating heart of eastern Gallea, under the scorching mantle of the sun, lies the Sultanate of Bahamut, a nation forged in the sands of time and in the unbreakable resistance of its people. Dominated by vast deserts that test the tenacity of all who call this place home, Bahamut is an oasis of culture, tradition and power amid the implacability of its arid and dry climate.
Despite the challenges imposed by nature, Bahamut prospers with over 7 million souls, a testament to human ingenuity and the ability to find life and sustenance even under the harshest of conditions. The grand castles that rise solitary between the dunes and the vibrant savannas that dot the desert are landmarks of resilience and cultural wealth of this people.
The capital, Tvetlum, is an architectural jewel, raised in a vast savanna and embraced by a vital river, which not only nurtures the land but also the soul of the nation. This city, more than a political center, is a symbol of the harmony possible between nature and civilization, where water is as precious as gold.
Bahamut's economy is singular, centered on the delights its inhabitants can extract and create from available resources. The exotic beverages and foods they produce are not just sustenance, but also artifacts of pleasure and expressions of a rich culture that values flavor and substance equally.
Under the rule of Sultan Emunuteph III, Bahamut remains a respectable power, a land of contrasts where the rigor of the desert meets the abundance of life. The sultan, a figure both venerated and feared, is the guardian of his people, the master of the sands who navigates the complexities of leadership with wisdom and the strength necessary to ensure that Bahamut not only survives but thrives.
Therefore, the Sultanate of Bahamut is a vivid reminder that even in the harshest of environments, humanity can create unmatched beauty, develop rich cultures and build societies that not only challenge hardships but also celebrate life in all its forms.
Kingdom of Zagreliv
In the vast plains of eastern Gallea, under a sky that oscillates between the serenity of sunny days and the majesty of torrential rains, lies the Kingdom of Zagreliv. This country, marked by its gentle geography and abundance of fertile lands, is a sanctuary of biodiversity and tradition. Ruled with wisdom and firmness by Dwarf King Dufor, descendant of a venerable royal lineage, Zagreliv is a testament to the resilience and strength of its people.
Zagreliv's economy flourishes around fishing and agriculture, with a notable specialization in the capture of rare fish and the cultivation of medicinal plants. The latter not only serves the needs of its citizens but also positions the kingdom as the largest exporter of medicinal plants on the entire continent, a source of pride and prosperity.
Zagreliv's semi-tropical climate, with its intense seasonal rains, creates ideal conditions for the flourishing of a vast array of flora. The plains, dotted with solitary trees and adorned by few mountains, offer a landscape of natural beauty and simplicity, reflecting the very soul of Zagreliv's people.
With a population of 3.5 million, predominantly composed of dwarves, Zagreliv is a land of inclusion and diversity. Here, all types of humanoids find a home, a society where difference is celebrated and coexistence between the various races is seen as a pillar of national strength.
Legends tell that Zagreliv was the second kingdom to be founded in Gallea, raised by the hand of a great Dwarf who came from distant lands, becoming a beacon of hope and resistance through the ages. Surviving terrible catastrophes, the kingdom remains to this day, a stronghold of stability and perseverance in its capital Nitchlok.
Zagreliv is not just a country; it is a living narrative of Gallea's history, a place where the past meets the present to weave the future. Ruled with the ancestral wisdom of Dufor, this kingdom continues to flourish, a symbol of the eternal capacity for adaptation and prosperity of the dwarven spirit and all peoples who call these plains home.
Queendom of Nitrea
In the far east of Gallea, bathed by winding rivers and tranquil lakes, lies the Queendom of Nitrea, a country where water is the source of life and prosperity. Under the gentle and firm dominion of Alein the Fair, Nitrea flourishes like a semitropical garden, its fertile lands embracing the abundance of the sea and earth. Its capital Melora is home to one of the biggest universities across the entire continent.
Nitrea's economy, based on the wealth of its waters and the generosity of its climate, revolves around fishing and agriculture. The variety and abundance of fish are complemented by the cultivation of exotic and succulent fruits, making Nitrea a pantry of natural resources. This economic duality not only ensures the country's food self-sufficiency but also enriches the market with exports of fresh, high-quality products.
With its geography dotted by waterways and direct access to the ocean, Nitrea is a country naturally predisposed to aquatic life. The semitropical climate favors a continuous cycle of growth and renewal, allowing both fishing and agriculture to thrive in harmony with nature's rhythms.
Under the leadership of Alein the Fair, Nitrea is a stronghold of matriarchy. Nitrean society, where women play central roles in all spheres of public and private life, is a vibrant example of equity and respect. The preference given to women in the country's decisions is not a matter of supremacy, but of tradition and balance, reflecting a deep belief in woman's power to guide and protect.
With a population of approximately 1.2 million inhabitants, Nitrea is a nation united not just by its geography and economy, but also by its social values. Respect for female leadership, along with reverence for nature, weaves the fabric of a community that values harmony and cooperation above all else.
Nitrea stands out in Gallea not only for its natural beauty and economic prosperity, but also for its unique social structure. It is a country that demonstrates how respect for matriarchal traditions can coexist with progress and modernity, offering a model of governance that is both inspiring and effective. Under Alein the Fair's watchful eye, Nitrea sails into the future with the wisdom of the past, a gleaming jewel in Gallea's vast and varied lands.
Kingdom of Leoria
In the vibrant heart of Gallea rises the Kingdom of Leoria, a land blessed by the diversity of its nature and the richness of its culture. With Reshatram as its capital, situated on the shores of the majestic Lake Argalon, Leoria is a kingdom where tradition and progress intertwine in an exemplary manner. Leoria boasts a robust economy, anchored in the advanced cultivation of grains and animal husbandry. This kingdom not only satisfies the needs of its citizens abundantly, but has also established itself as the largest exporter of meat and grains across the entire continent, a testament to its agricultural and livestock efficiency.
The land of Leoria is a spectacle of natural contrasts, divided between the vast savannas, where the horizon extends until it is lost from sight, and the dense tropical forests, which shelter a rich and fascinating biodiversity. Spectacular oases dot this diversified landscape, serving as meeting points for fauna and flora, as well as for the people of Leoria. Predominantly tropical, Leoria's climate favors the lushness of life in all its forms. Abundant rains nourish its lands, ensuring generous harvests and rich pastures for animal husbandry, thus sustaining the basis of its economy.
Ruled by King Arthon, a leader revered for his wisdom and prowess as a legendary ancient warrior, Leoria prospers under his guidance. The king's leadership is marked by a deep respect for the land and an unshakeable commitment to the well-being of his people. With a population of around 3.7 million, Leoria is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The harmony between its inhabitants and nature is the cornerstone of Leorian society, reflecting a profound understanding of the interdependence between man and environment.
The Heavenly Mountains, belonging to Leoria, are sacred, sheltering tribes guided by the spirit of all lands. In a demonstration of respect and reverence for the world spirit, the king of Leoria at that time ceded this part of the territory so that these tribes could live under the guidance of this powerful and benevolent spirit. Leoria is therefore a kingdom where the majesty of nature and the greatness of the human spirit come together. With its fertile lands, wise leadership, and resilient people, Leoria stands out as an example of balance and prosperity in Gallea, a place where tradition meets innovation to create a truly vibrant and sustainable society.
Well, besides these countries, as I told you before, we have The Dragon's Lair of Severas, the legendary unnamed lands and of course, our country, the Confederation of Vernun. Obviously I will continue my research and will keep you informed about the developments in our continent's geopolitics. For now I ask that you allow me some time with my wife and son who is now a man, and I will soon return to exploring the continent as promised before.
Regards,
Fausto Heinz