Kingdom of Antalene

Antalene is a kingdom divided between the rich Southern lands and the harsh Northern wilds that barely allow their inhabitants to eke out a sparse existence. The Northern clans were conquered and brought into the kingdom generations ago, but there are still deep rifts between the regions that time cannot heal.   Within the spectacular walls of the palace, the nobles bet their lives and livelihoods on the high-stakes game of royal politics. Many attempt to scheme, manipulate, and sleep their way to the top, while others just try to stay out of the way. The elite Royal Academy positions itself as outside the subtle fray, but the same tensions splinter through the students and faculty. Outside the palace is a bustling port city, rife with merchants, sailors, artisans, servants and thieves.   Meanwhile, even though the North has been brought to its knees by the military might of the Conquest, the fierce spirit of its people still burns strong. They defend their families and traditions against starvation, roving bandits, and the threat of Southern assimilation. But every year is harder; more of the elders die, and more of the young people go South in search of jobs, trade, food, anything.   The tensions of Antalene threaten to rend the kingdom - and its people - in two.