The Valley Kingdoms
Surrounding the Free City of Haldren are the Valley Kingdoms, an assortment of eleven small kingdoms operating on a largely feudal basis. Generally speaking, the kingdoms are run by either a single powerful mage or a small consortium of less powerful ones. there's a natural balance to the power of leaders. If a leader becomes too powerful, the others ally against them; likewise, if they are too weak, then they are deposed.
That being said, the eleven kingdoms are not themselves static; rather, they fluctuate in size and number over time.
The Eleven Kingdoms
Dalvara
History
Dalvara, one of the oldest kingdoms in the Valley, traces its origins back to the time shortly after the fragmentation of the Haldren Empire. It was initially a small duchy established by one of the Empire's military leaders, who declared independence amidst the chaos. Over centuries, Dalvara expanded its territory through strategic marriages and alliances, cementing its status as a prominent kingdom. Its history is marked by numerous skirmishes with neighboring realms, but also periods of relative peace and prosperity, allowing it to flourish culturally and economically.
Government
Dalvara is governed by a powerful mage-king, supported by a council of nobles and lesser mages. The king's power is substantial, but the council holds significant sway, especially in matters of law and finance. This semi-feudal structure ensures a balance of power, preventing any single entity from becoming too dominant. The council is composed of representatives from the major noble houses, each bringing their own military and magical resources to the table. This structure has allowed Dalvara to maintain internal stability, even during times of external threat.
Economy
Dalvara's economy is diverse, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and trade. The fertile lands surrounding the kingdom produce a bounty of crops, which are traded throughout the Valley. Dalvara is also known for its artisanal crafts, particularly in magical items and enchanted artifacts, which are highly sought after in other kingdoms. The kingdom's central location makes it a crucial hub for trade routes, bringing wealth and resources into its cities. Additionally, Dalvara's mages contribute to the economy by offering magical services and training to other realms.
Brevan
History
Brevan was formed in the aftermath of the Haldren Empire's fall, established by a consortium of mages who sought to create a haven for magical study and practice. These founding mages were originally part of the Haldren Society of Magic but broke away to pursue more radical magical theories. Over the centuries, Brevan has maintained its reputation as a center for magical innovation, often at the forefront of new developments in the arcane arts. This focus on magic has led to a culture deeply rooted in scholarship and intellectual pursuit.
Government
The kingdom is governed by a council of senior mages known as the Arcane Assembly. This body is composed of the most skilled and knowledgeable mages in Brevan, elected by their peers for ten-year terms. The Assembly is responsible for all major decisions, from laws and policies to defense and diplomacy. While the Assembly holds significant power, there is also a representative body of common citizens and lesser mages who provide input and ensure the council remains accountable. This system fosters a cooperative environment, with a strong emphasis on merit and ability.
Economy
Brevan's economy is heavily centered around magical research and education. The kingdom boasts numerous academies and research institutions that attract students and scholars from across the Valley. These institutions generate significant revenue through tuition, grants, and the sale of magical patents and inventions. Additionally, Brevan exports magical goods and services, from enchanted items to consultancy in arcane matters. Agriculture and traditional crafts also play a role, though they are secondary to the kingdom's magical enterprises.
Gorlad
History
Gorlad emerged from the ruins of a once-powerful duchy that fragmented during the decline of the Haldren Empire. Its founding was driven by a charismatic warrior-mage who united the local clans under a banner of strength and resilience. Gorlad's history is marked by its martial culture and numerous wars with neighboring kingdoms. Despite these conflicts, Gorlad has maintained a strong sense of identity and unity, often rallying its people around shared hardships and victories.
Government
The kingdom is ruled by a single mage-lord, traditionally the strongest and most respected warrior-mage. This leader is supported by a war council composed of clan leaders and veteran soldiers. The mage-lord's authority is absolute in times of war, but more consultative during peace. This dual structure ensures that the kingdom remains prepared for conflict while also addressing the needs of its citizens. The war council's input is crucial in matters of strategy and governance, maintaining a balance of power.
Economy
Gorlad's economy is primarily based on its strong martial tradition. The kingdom produces some of the finest weapons and armor in the Valley, both mundane and enchanted. These goods are highly prized and exported to other kingdoms. Additionally, Gorlad's economy benefits from its mining operations, extracting valuable minerals and magical crystals from its mountainous regions. While agriculture is less prominent, the kingdom's fertile valleys still produce enough to sustain its population and trade surplus.
Helvor
History
Helvor was established by a group of refugees fleeing the collapse of the Haldren Empire. These settlers were led by a visionary mage who envisioned a society based on harmony with nature and magical attunement. Over the centuries, Helvor has developed a unique culture that blends deep magical knowledge with a strong connection to the natural world. This kingdom has remained relatively peaceful, focusing on internal development and sustainability rather than expansion.
Government
The governance of Helvor is based on a council of druids and nature mages, known as the Circle of Elders. This body is responsible for making decisions through consensus, emphasizing the well-being of the land and its inhabitants. The Circle is led by a High Druid, elected from among their ranks for life. This structure ensures that all voices are heard and that decisions are made with careful consideration of their impact on the environment and community. The Circle's approach has fostered a stable and harmonious society.
Economy
Helvor's economy is largely agrarian, with a focus on sustainable farming and magical enhancement of crops. The kingdom is known for its high-quality produce and herbal products, which are traded throughout the Valley. In addition to agriculture, Helvor has a thriving economy based on magical tourism. Visitors come to learn from the kingdom's renowned druids and nature mages, bringing wealth and fostering cultural exchange. Artisanal crafts also contribute to Helvor's economic stability.
Ruedan
History
Ruedan's origins lie in the strategic location it occupies, controlling a crucial pass through the mountains that separate the Valley from the eastern plains. The kingdom was founded by a military strategist who recognized the pass's importance and established a fortified city to control it. Ruedan has since played a pivotal role in defending the Valley from external threats and facilitating trade with distant lands. Its history is one of vigilance and strategic importance.
Government
The kingdom is ruled by a hereditary monarch, supported by a council of advisors composed of military leaders and seasoned mages. This structure ensures that Ruedan is always prepared for potential threats and can respond swiftly to any challenges. The monarch holds significant power but is expected to consult with the council on major decisions. This balance between autocracy and advisory input has maintained stability and security in the kingdom.
Economy
Ruedan's economy is heavily reliant on its strategic position. The kingdom controls the main trade route through the mountains, collecting tolls and providing security for merchants. This control has made Ruedan wealthy and influential. In addition to trade, Ruedan has developed a robust metalworking industry, producing weapons, armor, and tools that are highly valued throughout the Valley. Agriculture and livestock farming in the surrounding fertile lands support the population and contribute to the local economy.
Vilar
History
Vilar was established by a coalition of mages and scholars who sought to create a utopia of learning and intellectual pursuit. This kingdom quickly became known as a center of knowledge, attracting minds from all over the Valley. Vilar's history is marked by its commitment to education and the advancement of magical and mundane sciences. Despite occasional conflicts with less scholarly neighbors, Vilar has remained a beacon of enlightenment.
Government
The governance of Vilar is managed by a council of scholars, known as the Learned Assembly. This body is composed of the heads of the various academies and research institutions within the kingdom. Decisions are made through debate and consensus, with a focus on rationality and evidence. The Assembly is led by a Grand Scholar, elected from among their peers for a five-year term. This system ensures that the kingdom remains dedicated to its founding principles of knowledge and education.
Economy
Vilar's economy is centered around its educational institutions and research centers. These establishments attract students and scholars from across the Valley, generating significant revenue through tuition and grants. The kingdom also exports scholarly works, magical inventions, and specialized services, contributing to its wealth. Agriculture and artisanal crafts support the population, but the primary economic drivers remain intellectual and magical pursuits.
Ladrae
History
Ladrae was born from the ashes of a once-great city that fell during the collapse of the Haldren Empire. Its founders were a group of survivors who rebuilt the city with a focus on resilience and adaptability. Over the centuries, Ladrae has grown into a prosperous kingdom, known for its innovative spirit and strong communal bonds. Its history is a testament to the strength and determination of its people.
Government
The kingdom is governed by a council of elected representatives from each of its major districts, ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision-making process. This council is led by a Chancellor, elected from among the representatives for a term of four years. The government of Ladrae emphasizes transparency and community involvement, with regular town meetings and open forums for discussion. This democratic approach has fostered a strong sense of unity and shared purpose.
Economy
Ladrae's economy is diverse and dynamic, with a strong focus on trade and innovation. The kingdom is a hub for merchants and artisans, producing a wide range of goods from textiles to enchanted items. Ladrae is also known for its thriving markets and festivals, which attract visitors and traders from across the Valley. Agriculture and fishing in the nearby rivers provide a steady food supply, while the kingdom's innovative spirit drives economic growth and prosperity.
Haldar
History
Haldar's history is steeped in blood and betrayal. Founded by a powerful mage who declared himself king after the fall of the Haldren Empire, Haldar quickly became known for its ruthless leaders and brutal conquests. The kingdom expanded rapidly through a series of bloody wars, absorbing smaller neighboring realms. Inter-family conflicts and power struggles marked Haldar's internal history, with assassinations and coups becoming almost routine. This volatile environment forged a resilient and cunning populace, always ready for the next challenge to their sovereignty.
Government
Haldar is governed by a single, all-powerful mage-king who rules with an iron fist. The king's authority is absolute, maintained through a combination of fear, magical prowess, and strategic alliances. The court is a hotbed of intrigue, with nobles constantly vying for the king's favor and plotting against each other. The king is advised by a small council of trusted confidants, but their loyalty is often fleeting. This harsh and oppressive regime has ensured that only the most cunning and ruthless can rise to power.
Economy
Haldar's economy is driven by its militaristic focus. The kingdom's forges and workshops produce weapons and armor of the highest quality, both mundane and magical. These goods are traded throughout the Valley, bringing in wealth that funds further military endeavors. Haldar's agricultural sector is heavily taxed to support the kingdom's war machine, but the fertile lands ensure a steady supply of food. The kingdom also engages in piracy and raiding, further supplementing its coffers with plundered goods and slaves.
Bueven
History
Bueven was founded on the ruins of a once-great city, torn apart by internal strife and external invasions. The kingdom's early years were marked by a brutal civil war between rival factions, each seeking to claim the throne. After decades of bloodshed, a powerful warlord emerged victorious, establishing a dynasty that has ruled with an iron fist ever since. Bueven's history is one of constant vigilance, as the ruling family must constantly fend off both internal and external threats to their power.
Government
The kingdom is ruled by a tyrannical monarch, whose power is enforced by a network of loyal nobles and a fearsome secret police. The royal court is a place of constant scheming and betrayal, as nobles vie for the king's favor and plot against each other. The monarch maintains control through a combination of brutal repression and strategic alliances, ensuring that any dissent is swiftly crushed. The government's primary focus is on maintaining power and expanding the kingdom's influence through force and intimidation.
Economy
Bueven's economy is heavily militarized, with a significant portion of its resources devoted to maintaining a large and well-equipped army. The kingdom's fertile lands produce an abundance of food, which is heavily taxed to support the war effort. Bueven is also known for its skilled blacksmiths and craftsmen, who produce high-quality weapons and armor for both the kingdom's own use and for trade. Piracy and raiding are common practices, providing additional income and resources to fuel the kingdom's ambitions.
Gevara
History
Gevara's origins lie in a brutal coup that overthrew the previous ruling dynasty, replacing it with a council of warlords who have ruled ever since. The kingdom's history is marked by constant internal strife, as the warlords jockey for power and influence. Assassinations and betrayals are commonplace, with each warlord seeking to expand their own territory at the expense of their rivals. This perpetual state of conflict has created a hardened and resilient populace, accustomed to the harsh realities of life in Gevara.
Government
Gevara is governed by a council of warlords, each controlling their own fiefdom within the kingdom. The council meets regularly to negotiate alliances and settle disputes, but these gatherings are often tense and fraught with danger. The warlords maintain their power through a combination of military strength and cunning, constantly seeking to undermine their rivals. The kingdom's government is highly unstable, with power shifts occurring frequently as alliances are made and broken.
Economy
Gevara's economy is based on plunder and conquest. The kingdom's warlords fund their armies through the spoils of war, raiding neighboring territories for resources and slaves. The fertile lands of Gevara produce enough food to sustain the population, but much of it is seized by the warlords to support their military campaigns. Skilled artisans and blacksmiths produce weapons and armor, which are essential to the kingdom's survival. Trade is limited and often conducted under threat of force, with Gevara's neighbors wary of its aggressive tactics.
Roalen
History
Roalen was founded by a disgraced noble who fled the Haldren Empire after a failed coup. This noble, driven by a thirst for power and revenge, established Roalen as a bastion of strength and ambition. The kingdom's early history is marked by relentless expansion and conquest, as its rulers sought to carve out a new empire from the chaos. Inter-family conflicts and power struggles have been a constant feature of Roalen's history, with each generation battling to secure their place on the throne.
Government
The kingdom is ruled by a hereditary monarch, supported by a powerful and ruthless nobility. The court is a dangerous place, filled with intrigue and betrayal as nobles vie for influence and favor. The monarch maintains control through a combination of fear, loyalty, and strategic marriages, ensuring that potential rivals are kept in check. The government is highly centralized, with the monarch wielding near-absolute power over the kingdom's affairs. This autocratic regime has created a culture of loyalty and fear, where dissent is swiftly and brutally crushed.
Economy
Roalen's economy is built on the spoils of conquest and the wealth of its nobility. The kingdom's fertile lands produce abundant crops, which are heavily taxed to support the ruling class and fund military campaigns. Roalen is known for its skilled craftsmen and artisans, who produce luxury goods and enchanted items for the nobility and for trade. The kingdom also engages in piracy and raiding, supplementing its income with plundered goods and resources. The economy is heavily stratified, with a clear divide between the wealthy elite and the impoverished masses.
Roalen
History
Roalen was established by a group of exiled nobles who sought to create a new power base after being ousted from their former realms. The kingdom's founding was marked by violent conflicts with local tribes and neighboring kingdoms, as the exiles carved out a territory through sheer force. Roalen's history is one of relentless ambition and power struggles, both within the ruling family and against external enemies. The kingdom has expanded through a series of brutal wars, absorbing smaller realms and consolidating its power.
Government
Roalen is ruled by a single, all-powerful monarch who holds absolute authority over the kingdom. The throne is inherited through a strict line of succession, but power struggles and assassinations are common as ambitious nobles seek to claim the crown. The court is a treacherous place, with constant plotting and intrigue among the nobility. The monarch relies on a network of loyal enforcers to maintain control, using fear and brutality to suppress any dissent. This ruthless regime has created a highly centralized and oppressive government.
Economy
Roalen's economy is driven by its aggressive expansionist policies and the wealth accumulated through conquest. The kingdom's fertile lands produce a surplus of crops, which are taxed heavily to fund the military and the lavish lifestyles of the nobility. Roalen is also a hub for trade, with merchants and artisans producing high-quality goods for both local consumption and export. The kingdom engages in piracy and raiding, supplementing its income with the spoils of war. The economy is highly stratified, with the nobility enjoying vast wealth while the common people live in relative poverty.