Kala (Kaw-luh)
The City of Shimmering Waters
Founding of Kala
Kala, one of the three Renadi nations, is a wealthy J'barri trade nation run by four oligarchs. Their status comes from their control over land and the businesses that sit upon it. While their positions were originally ones of heritage, they are now entirely separate from blood, with successors merely inheriting the "markets" of their forebearers. Under their influence, the city stands as an exquisite port and trading center, helping the nation rake in enough money to compete with even the wealthiest human baronies. Along with this, the nation enjoys a rigorous legal process, often considered less barbaric than most other societies in Laminarum (often involving lawyers, judges, juries, etc.). Beyond the nation's oligarchs are two correspondents, including a representative of Roja and Vhou Riyael, elvish king of Nim.
Kala's culture was not always one of rigorous trade and diplomacy. They were formed under the influence of the god Ferrehet, patron of conquest. Forged in the annihilation of basking snakefolk that called the land home, it was guided entirely by the whims of force and subjugation. When they began to modernize, Kala was the antagonizer in the Yunbad-J'barri Conflict, where swathes of civilization were destroyed in the name of ego and slavery. After the tragedy brought on by Nil Hra in this war via the Yunbad genocide, the government would shift to the worship of Riiji: Patron God of Cycles. While this patron god owes her allegiance to Roja, Kala has continuously sought her wisdom. While Nil Hra herself may still be revered as a demigod and sculpture of the J'barri culture, none of her problematic ideals remain in the greater social mind of Kalans.
Those looking to express their artistic careers, make a quick buck on a scam, or learn one of many trades should come to Kala. It may be shady in some streets, but it has the amenities of the Augury, along with riches from many other nations. While many people go to all three cities of Renad (for different reasons), Kala provides the greatest collection of opportunities and the most positive outlook regarding outsiders.
Kala stands as one of the three extant Renadi civilizations. It was founded by the Ferrehet pride via conquest and was taken from a group of snake-like individuals upon their arrival. These anthropomorphic snakes were likely Naga-Tel or at least close relatives. This has caused some tensions between Kala and the distant peoples of Mot D'nir.
Society in Kala
Kala is a shining gem of modern civilization compared to its sister nations, Brillé and Roja. The people of Kala, particularly the middle class, always have access to the world's newest global resources and luxuries. Thanks to its beneficial trade position in comparison to the humans of the east, elves to the south, and the ore-rich Roja to the north, Kala is never a wanting civilization.
While vertical movement in society is difficult, it is not impossible. Many political positions are open to the public through local voting, though the oligarchs that run the city choose their successors. The city has a notable homeless and poverty problem, with poor wealth distribution growing over the last few decades. The middle class lives comfortably and is usually subject to the whims of the 4 Kalan oligarchs, thanks to their control over all facets of business and territory.
A Diverse Nation
Unlike its sister lionfolk nations, Kala has a diverse population consisting of j'barri, elves, and humans. Thanks to this melting pot status, most of its citizens and travelers are multilingual, and churches can be found dedicated to several foreign ideologies or orders. While a small percentage of the population dislikes the outside ideologies being brought in, the oligarchs tend to support it, as they can garner funding through new church donations.
Native Culture
Kala, though its patron god is Ferrehet, decided that the ideals of conquest were too troublesome after The Mountainfold. While she would still be revered as a wise patron of the nation, the people of Kala would begin transitioning to the worship of Riiji, patron god of Roja, over the domain of cycles. As Kala grew into the fold of global society, its fruitful trade position would see the nation focus on one cycle in particular: the economy. While the j'barri of the city still respect ancient customs, such as the right to claim your own land via conquest (though usually of wildlife), they have transitioned to respect financial wisdom. Politeness, displays of happiness, and physical contact are all parts of Kalan culture. Free thought and expression are considered essential to the nation, but there are no formal laws protecting them. Perhaps the greatest cultural hub for the people of Kala would be coffeehouses, which serve as institutions for intellectual and political discussion. These were so popular that the elves of Ghei Wyl would create "teahouses," which also served as local voting institutions.
Blood Money
"Of all the hells I've lived, I would choose to be spared this one. The ash has taken my lungs and the work has taken my back and joints. My eyesight has fallen from grace... I know now I shant earn enough money here to leave. Roja is now my home. Renad-Pai is now my life."
Kala, for as long as most can remember, has had a financial chokehold over Roja. Though the copper nation up north has plenty of riches in ore and alloys, Kala's preferable position for trade has left few wading Roja's dangerous waters. To make matters worse, Kala and Roja are paired in one of the world's oldest trade deals, forcing the folk up north to send all of their exports through the ports of Kala, all while fronting the nation's exorbitant taxes. This ensures that Kala, while already holding a positive trade position, can exploit the workers up north for as much financial gain as they desire. Over time, this has led the overworked miners of Roja to pack up and search for better opportunities abroad. As the population decreases and Kala tightens the leash on taxes and port fees, Roja must work its miners harder. Cautious individuals note that when the population reaches a critical point, exports will stop, and the economies of both Roja and Kala risk collapse.
All art generated by Midjourney*
Founding Date
225
Alternative Name(s)
City of Shimmering Waters, Pride of Ferrehet
Type
Large city
Population
275,000
Inhabitant Demonym
Kalan
Location under
Ruling/Owning Rank
Owning Organization
Comments