Scandalnavia

In a world filled with magic, its power is concentrated in the hands of a few. Most of the population have to earn their livelihood through hard physical labor.   Based in Scandinavia (see full map at: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ea/Carta_Marina.jpeg), this is a time of high magic and political change. Herdal was largely built by the Empire. A sprawling political entity that accepts fealty from cities along the coast, middle, and even below the mountains. However, about 20 years ago the empire left, withdrawing to the east of the mountains.   In the interim time, the people developed a Burgermeister position that was elected annually by the five families. The Leoni's held this position for the first ten years. And then the Meister Burgers won an election (3 to 2). Additionally, Crig Leoni was found in the waters outside the walls. It was determined to be a suicide by authorities at the time.   Since the withdrawl of the Empire and its representatives, Herdal has prospered under the guidance of the Merchant's Guild. The guild has guided the growth of the various markets served by Herdal as well as creating the current political structure where the five wealthiest families meet once a year to elect the primary representative and arbiter of