Ashar
Ashar is a large desert country spanning most of the Krakesian Desert. Known for its unique, massive sandstorms, is a land of endless dunes and shifting sands, a place where the wind shapes the landscape as easily as water shapes a riverbed. These sandstorms are a constant presence, burying anything in their path and muffling all sound, earning Ashar its moniker, the Land of Silent Storms.
The unique geography has shaped the culture of Ashar in many ways, due to the nature of the storms, the worship of Krakas, the aspect of destruction, is by far the most common form of religious practice. Offerings are frequently made, both on an individual and citywide level to appease this god in a superstitious attempt to ward off the storms. Most often, this involves the ritualistic burning of food or other meaningful items, however, in the capital, Barith, a building is built each year only to be sacrificed to the god in a large public display, an event known as The Razing. This day is the country's most important holiday.
Due to the importance of religion, the priests of Ashar have been granted considerable power over the politics and government of the region. The country is a theocracy, led by the high priest, known as the Hierophant. Each city is led by a body known as a Sect, which acts as both the local government and religious branch.
Due to its the powerful storms, Ashar has remained largely isolated from the rest of the world. The lack of resources has made it difficult for the country to develop a strong economy, as large amounts of money are spent to reapir damage caused by them. Additionally, they make harvesting resources away from urban areas extremely difficult. However, the country is known for its crystal formations, which are said to be able to store magical energy and grow in large formations around the desert. Barith, the capital, is built in the shadow of the largest of these deposits, and is known as the Crystal City. The export of these crystals has allowed Ashar to avoid bankruptcy and maintain a somewhat healthy, if small, economy.
While the sandstorms of Ashar present many challenges to its people, they have also served over the years as a hazard to invaders. These storms have rebuffed several assaults from Araxia as the Oasis, and are largely credited with keeping the country independent. In recent years, however, the Oasis, Ashar's primary trade partner, has put increasing economic pressure on the country, canceling many of their trade deals in an effort to cause economic turmoil and force the people of Ashar to work under grueling conditions in the foreign land.
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