Keraian Empire
Introduction
Keraian has long stood as the largest and most central geopolitical region in Kena'an, acting as a crossroads connecting several neighboring kingdoms and regions. Following the death of Agion Condore- the last king to rule over a united Kena'an- the kingdom was entrusted to Vaeril Le'Quella, marking the beginning of an elven-dominated era in Keraian’s history. Under Vaeril’s guidance, Keraian flourished as the heart of elven culture and governance.
However, Vaeril’s reign came to a sudden and brutal end in 11 ADA when Keraian was invaded by the human kingdom of Myltery, commanded by Alarin I Condore. With their superior numbers and formidable military organization, the humans achieved a decisive victory, bringing both Keraian and Myltery under a single rule. Thus was born the Empire of Keraian, a unified realm under the The Condore Dynasty that would shape the course of Kena'an's history for centuries to come.
Geography
Over the centuries, the Empire of Keraian has faced territorial losses, the most profound of which was the original human kingdom of Myltery. Around the end of the 5th century ADA, Myltery fell to relentless undead forces, transforming it into a realm of restless spirits and undead lords. Despite this tragic loss, Keraian remains a land of remarkable beauty, with a wealth of fertile landscapes and varied geography that has sustained its people and cultures for generations.
Keraian’s breathtaking landscapes form the lifeblood of its culture and society. Dominating the terrain is the formidable Dragonspire mountain range, which stretches majestically from Keraian’s northern reaches down to the southern borders. This mountain chain provides a natural spine for the empire, shaping its climate and ecosystems. Nestled within this expanse lies the capital, cradled by the tranquil beauty of three interconnected lakes, a serene oasis amid the rugged terrain.
Keraian’s coastal charm is no less impressive. The sandy shores along the closed Sea of Syralis invite travelers to relax under golden sunsets, while further inland, dense, ancient forests are home to rare flora and fauna found only in this region. The countryside is adorned with rolling hills, endless fertile valleys and storm-beaten bays, lending a striking contrast to the vibrant society thriving in Keraian’s cities, villages, and hamlets. This rich and diverse environment offers a constant source of inspiration and sustenance to the people of Keraian, shaping the heart of a dynamic and enduring empire.
Population
The society of Keraian is deeply rooted in its feudal monarchy system, where most humans pledge allegiance to noble lords under the empire’s rule. However, not all follow this structure. High in the remote reaches of the Dragonspire mountains, a few human clans live independently, maintaining their ancestral traditions. These tribal people claim descent from the Eaglors, a mystical race tied to dreams and divination, and uphold customs and beliefs that are unique to their isolated lifestyle. These clans cherish their autonomy, rarely venturing to the mainland and only occasionally interacting with the empire, reinforcing their reputation as enigmatic and fiercely self-sufficient.
While humans remain the primary population of Keraian, its lands are a tapestry of cultures and races, each community shaped by its own unique history and struggles.
The dwarves, primarily settled in the rugged foothills of the Dragonspire mountains, thrive in their mining and metalwork trades. Many of these dwarves have lived in Keraian for generations, having either been born in the region or migrated from Louthiran in search of new opportunities. Their settlements are often close-knit, grounded in dwarven traditions yet adapted to Keraian’s culture, blending resilience with craftsmanship.
In places like Brighthollow, the leadership and ingenuity of gnomes and halflings have allowed these communities to flourish. Known for their inventive skills and tight communal bonds, these towns have carved out unique identities within Keraian’s landscape, bringing a lively, industrious energy to the realm.
The elves, however, face a much more complex and often difficult reality. Since the time of Vaeril Le'Quella- their status has steadily declined since the fall of the elven kingdom. Today, most elves are regarded as second-class citizens. Those who live in Keraian's cities are often confined to designated neighborhoods known as Edhellond, a series of ghetto-like districts that limit their movement and opportunities. These neighborhoods are isolated from broader society, and many elves find work only as servants or, if fortunate, as craftsmen.
In cities like Mythralis, the situation is slightly better, as the city's heritage preserves a remnant of elven pride and status. Nonetheless, even here, oppression and prejudice persist. In the imperial palace itself, elven servants are commonplace, and those who can trace their lineage to Vaeril Le'Quella are highly sought after by noble families as status symbols. It is considered a mark of distinction to have such a servant, highlighting the bittersweet legacy of the elven bloodline; a once-proud people now regarded as symbols of honor only in servitude.
The blood of our enemies, empowers our blades
All written content is original, drawn from myth, memory, and madness.
All images are generated via Midjourney using custom prompts by the author, unless otherwise stated.
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