Veluna, Archclericy of
Veluna remains a shining light in the Flanaess, where faith and reason guide its people, and peace is defended with unwavering resolve.
History
Veluna traces its origins to the Vollar tribe of Oeridians, who settled between the Velverdyva and Fals Rivers during the Great Migrations, peacefully integrating with the Flan tribes of the Vale of Luna, who were devout followers of Rao. When the Great Kingdom expanded westward, the Velunese chose to integrate with the Aerdi rather than resist, tempering the aggression of Ferrond's royalty and gaining influential positions in the court. When Furyondy seceded from the Great Kingdom in 254 CY, Veluna followed suit, gaining independence while remaining closely allied with its western neighbor.
Over the centuries, Veluna navigated various political challenges. Trade tensions with Dyvers strained relations with Furyondy, and Keoland occupied Veluna during its expansionist phase, beginning in 350 CY. Furyondy eventually expelled the Keoish forces in the Short War (circa 450 CY), though a full political reunion between the two states was abandoned in 446 CY. Veluna played a decisive role in suppressing the Horde of Elemental Evil at Emridy Meadows in 569 CY, led by its Provost Marshal, Prince Thrommel of Furyondy.
Politics and Society
The Archclericy is ruled by the Canon of Veluna, who is advised by a council of seven nobles and the semi-independent Viscount of Verbobonc, a loyal vassal. Veluna enjoys strong diplomatic relations with Bissel, Highfolk, and the gnomes of the Kron Hills. Its alliance with Furyondy remains strong, though formal plans for unification were indefinitely postponed following the disappearance of the Furyondian heir.
The folk of Veluna embody the best aspects of the common races, living harmoniously and building a shared culture based on peace, reason, and serenity. The influence of the Church of Rao is omnipresent, shaping both civic and spiritual life within the nation.
Religion
Veluna is a theocracy dedicated to the worship of Rao, god of peace and reason, with Canon Hazen serving as the high priest. While Raoism is the official state religion, the Archclericy welcomes other good-aligned faiths within its borders, such as those of Heironeous, Pelor, and Saint Cuthbert. Temples and shrines are prevalent, reinforcing Veluna’s reputation as a bastion of enlightenment and faith.
Military
Though a realm of peace, Veluna maintains a disciplined military to defend its ideals. The standing army consists primarily of well-trained medium cavalry, supported by elite heavy cavalry and agile light cavalry for reconnaissance. The forces are further bolstered by pikemen, skilled gnome battalions from the Kron Hills, and elite elven archers from Highfolk. Veluna also conducts periodic raids against lingering threats, ensuring the safety of its people.
Notable Locales
Veluna City, the capital, is renowned for its divine architecture, particularly the Tower of Rao, the tallest structure in the Flanaess. Adorned with sculptures of angels and devas spiraling toward the heavens, the tower symbolizes Veluna’s celestial aspirations. Once a sacred beacon of faith, it now also serves a practical purpose as the city’s mint. Beyond the capital, Veluna’s landscape is dotted with idyllic glades, fortified temples, and tranquil monasteries where scholars and clerics study the divine mysteries of Rao.
Proper Name: Archclericy of Veluna
Ruler: Canon Hazen (human)
Government: Theocracy ruled by the Canon of Veluna, who is advised by the College of Bishops and the Celestial Order of the Moons, made up of representatives from seven secular noble houses and a representative from the Viscounty of Verbobonc
Major Settlements: Mitrik; Devarnish, Veluna City
Resources: Foodstuffs, copper, silver, gold
Population: Human, Elf, Half-elf, Gnome, Halfling, Dwarf, Half-orc
Law: LG
Allies: Furyondy, Verbobonc, Highfolk, Bissel, Kron Hills, Ulek States, Shield Lands, Gran March, Dyvers (weak), all branches of the church of Rao across the Flanaess. Celene (distrusted), Knights of the Hart, Knights of Luna.
Enemies: Empire of Iuz, Ket, the Pomarj (minor), Knights of the Watch and Knights of Dispatch (distrusted), Valley of the Mage (distrusted), Perrenland (distrusted)
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