Eastern Union
On the darkest nights of my soul, I like to tell myself that the East is what the nation would have been if not for my father's foolishness. Though, I cannot help but wonder of this viewpoint is tied to the fact that I am now very old, and enjoy the remnants of my youth that remain in the culture of my ancestry. Either way, it gives me comfort.
Culture
Eastern culture is very agrarian and makes thoughtful use of Agromancy. Being more directly involved in the maintenance of the land, they prefer smaller and more practical uses of power such as their amazing ever-warm cups and fire clickers. For most things, they rely on traditional means, especially communication and entertainment, preferring things such as reading or Text Messaging.
Technological Level
High; they have access to the same research and innovations as the West, but different priorities.
Agriculture & Industry
The economic development of the East is heavily skewed toward agricultural development and the growth and harvesting of renewable resources, crops, and livestock. As such, most of their land is undeveloped. This leaves broad swaths of farmland for grazing livestock and growing crops, as well as primeval forests for foraging and lumber.
Like the Western Empire, the East also uses the Smor as the basic unit of currency. The economic interdependence of the East and West makes it impossible for them to do otherwise. No one has even suggested the idea in more than 5,000 years.
Cordial
The problem with the West is that they are all too dependent on technomancy. I know they say it's safe, but all the time in the news you read about another airship having a catastrophic theeksfur failure. I'll trust my soul to the winds and the waves, thank you kindly.
Cordial
The problem with the East is that they refuse to utilize their potential! Why settle for heating your water in an ever-hot pot, when you could have a tech that not only heats the water, but also steeps the tea, filters it, and sweetens it for you? They could be so much more than they are if they just made smarter things.
