The Middle Kingdoms

Structure

The Middle Kingdoms, despite the name, are a traditional monarchy. The nobles they have are barons, viscounts, earls, dukes, and a king. Peasants in the Middle Kingdoms live under fuedal rule, with their local noble in control of their rights. Citizens that aren't laborers (like artisans or soldiers) have more freedoms overall.

Culture

The people of the Middle Kingdoms live within a highly structured society defined by social hierarchy, religious influence, and cultural diversity. Urban populations are concentrated in large, bustling cities where commerce, craftsmanship, and administration thrive. Markets are central to city life, offering goods such as textiles, spices, metalwork, ceramics, and manuscripts. Artisans, merchants, scholars, and laborers form the backbone of the urban economy, while the elite class of bureaucrats, military officers, and religious leaders hold social and political power.

Religion plays a central role in both public and private life. It shapes laws, festivals, daily rituals, and moral codes. Religious scholars are influential, serving as judges, teachers, and advisors. Despite an official state religion, the kingdom is home to diverse faith communities. Religious tolerance exists to varying degrees, often tied to political stability and the king's policies. Pilgrimages, public prayers, and religious festivals are common and widely observed.

In rural areas, life is more traditional and centered on agriculture, pastoralism, and local crafts. Village communities are close-knit, with social roles defined by family status and local customs. Hospitality is highly valued, and oral storytelling, music, and poetry are important forms of cultural expression. Across the kingdom, people identify strongly with their local region, clan, or tribe, but they are also connected by shared language, trade networks, and allegiance to the king's authority.

Public Agenda

The nation has little interest in claiming land in Alterra, instead forming the Explorer's Guild to chart the land to sell maps or discovered magical artifacts. Their economy is already a powerhouse due to the trade of spices and other localized resources in Prythwyn, so they have no need to expand borders on either continent.