Varenfall
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A continent boasting wealth. As the central power on Verterea, Varenfall has a strong hold on the trade routes that pass through most of the world's oceans and seas. Whilst the people of Varenfall believe that they are gracious with their power over the trade routes, their governments hoard the wealth granted through taxes on traded goods in order to increase their own standing in society.
As a whole, the people of Varenfall are treated fairly. The average citizen that makes their home on this continent are richer than some of the lords or politicians on other continents. Though there are some taboo topics or practices, for the most part citizens of Varenfall are free to do as they please - within the laws of the land, of course.
County Lines
Archon
Lush, green fields stretching on for eternity. A forest of emerald covering the islands to the west.
Archon is governed by an elected council which convenes bimonthly in the capital of Arcadis. Those living in Archon are well known for their wealth and luxurious lives.
Dawn
Fields and forests cover the land in vibrant splashes of colour. Wildlife roams free, undisturbed by infrequent cities and respected by the common folk who have crafted more natural settlements.
Dawn is home to a fearsome monarchy whose violent, bloody past overshadows their more recent acts of compassion.
Feren
The lush grasslands surrounding Feren’s borders yield to natural marshes. Though original settlers struggled to craft a home for themselves, their descendants have benefited from their persistent determination.
Feren is governed by a council, whose members inherit their seats from family. Those living in Feren are a strong, stubborn group of people.
Scarmoor
Grassland rolls into rocky ground, folding into the mountainous peaks. You are lucky if you have managed to settle on flat ground. Not that the people mind - they have adapted so thoroughly to the rough terrain that traversing through it is as easy as breathing.
Scarmoor is ruled by a monarchy, based out of the Palace of Prophecy in Rookfell. It is said that their bloodline is blessed by the divine.
Vassia
An island to the south, isolated and built within the mountainous peaks. People travel far and wide for even a glimpse at the majesty of Vassia’s arcane academies.
Vassia is governed by two councils. The first focuses on governing and maintaining the land, whilst the second focuses on the governance of magic and magical individuals.
Map of Varenfall
Outlawed or Taboo Topics
Necromancy
Throughout all of Varenfall, necromancy is banned. Governing bodies across the continent came to a mutual agreement on its nature and subsequent practice 450 years ago.
However, there are a couple of exceptions to this rule. The first being that it can be taught and studied by any of the arcane academies, but only for educational purposes. Practice outside of such lessons will see hefty punishment. The second is that some practitioners of the magical arts may be given permits to practise and cast necromancy spells. Such permits are granted by the Circle-of-Televas{TBC}.
All this posturing… evocation magic is just as dangerous, but you don’t see us banning that!
Well, I’ve never heard of a God getting angry just because you created a flame in your hand.
This licence, granted by the blessed authority of His Majesty, Akram Jassad, hereby authorises you to carry SM-Class firearms within the County of Scarmoor. Failure to adhere to the laws of this county will result in the immediate revocation of your licence.
Firearms
A topic of many arguments amongst the populace of Varenfall. In Dawn, Feren, and Vassia, the use of firearms is against the law. Even so much as having one in your possession, regardless of whether or not it works, is grounds for your arrest.
Archon and Scarmoor, however, are much more lenient. For these two counties, certain makes of firearms are available for the general populations. Larger, more dangerous models of firearms are reserved for those with licences, which are only provided by each county's respective governing body.
You have to be careful though: a licence to carry firearms in Scarmoor is not deemed legal in Archon, and vice versa.
Enchantment
Though not against the law, use of enchantment spells will draw some suspicion from the majority of people in Varenfall. Such spells bring a sense of mistrust.
By far, the most lenient county on the subject is Vassia, whose mages argue that banning enchantment magic would be a ridiculous overreaction. In contrast, the Archon-Council{TBC} are lobbying to ban the usage of enchantment spells, although their sudden drastic stance is due to a few council incidents resulting from misuse of enchantment spells.
That’s the third one this month. Suddenly he can’t remember a damn thing around the time of the theft, so the thieves got out with a handful of sealed records.
Any idea what they were looking for?
None. But considering what we store in those archives, it can’t be anything good.
Current Political Climate
The Trouble With Trade
As the combined governments of Varenfall have a hold on the major trade routes, they have amassed a great deal of power and wealth. Whilst this has benefitted their citizens, it has been severely detrimental to others. This has led to some friction between Varenfall and some of the other continents.
Most upset by the extortionate trade taxes and Varenfall’s iron grasp on the trade routes is Eldorwin, who have resorted to underhanded tactics to try and force Varenfall’s hand into making the process fairer. Unfortunately, this has led to the two continents declaring war on each other, as neither side wants to budge on their position.
Because of the recent declaration of war, Varenfall has reached out to the neighbouring continent Marithell, who harbour a powerful naval army. In exchange for their help in the war, Varenfall would provide them more leeway with their traded goods.
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