The Principality of Churok
The Principality of Churok is the most renowned state of the Icy Lands. Founded by the ancient warrior Chur, who led his people against the Elven oppressors shortly before the death of Auvian the Immortal, it has produced some of the most valiant and fearless soldiers on the continent of Raath.
Though historically riven by sectarian violence, under the current Prince, Aratos the Bear, the land has found a semblance of peace.
Structure
At the bottom rung are the peasants. Unlike feudal peasants, also referred to as churls or serfs, Churoka peasants own their land and pay taxes to the Prince, usually collected by the local chieftain.
Next on the rung are the chieftains. These are rich nobles responsible for enforcing the Prince's will. They are born from the line of ancient chieftains of the land, and so inherit their titles.
Above them is the Prince, elected by the chieftains to provide cohesive leadership.
Culture
The people of Churok and Beritz are referred to as the Valgritz. They are a solemn people, given to taking things too seriously, speaking frankly and plainly and finding idle conversation wasteful. Though usually quiet, they can become very passionate when aggravated or discussing something important.
They are very independently minded, oppinionated and stubborn, forming strong personal beliefs that they will eternally argue about.
Bickering also appears to be ingrained in their cultural identity, as protracted arguementa over small matters occur frequently.
History
Churok came to be after the rebel warrior Chur led three of the tribes of the Icy Lands against their Elven occupiers. Although the initial effort was successful, by 10024, Auvian the Immortal was mustering the Legions, which he intended to lead personally, to retake the land, however when he died later that year, the Empire was thrown into chaos and the plan was forever abandoned. Chur was named Prince of the new principality, and the land entered a time of prosperity. After the death of his great granddaughter, the land descended into religious war and occasional war with the neighbouring principality of Beritz.
In recent days, the reign of Aratos the Bear has brought a degree of unity and prosperity to the land, with some even naming him Chur reincarnated.
Territories
Churok extends from the Roaring Mountains to the Sea of Ice and the River of Many Battles.
Military
Churok has a small standing army of 600 soldiers – 500 garrison troops and 100 of the Prince's personal warriors. More soldiers can be lrveed from the population.
Religion
Religion in Churok is dominated by the Churches of Daevlor, a variety of sects following Daevlor, god of justice, law and order. The sects followed in Churok are the Church of St. Ulrik, the Church of St. Erva and the Church of St. Brenail. These three sects frequently engage in sectarian violence of the highest order of brutality.
Foreign Relations
Churok is an insular and isolated principality, secluded from the world by the Roaring Mountains. It conducts trade mostly with Gallia and the Dwarves of Clan Guldir. It is in a perpetual state of semi-warfare with Beritz, though since the dramatic victories of Prince Aratos, this has lulled.
Agriculture & Industry
Agriculture, though prevalent throughout the principality, is not productive, due to the harsh winters and fertility issues with the soil. Churok's primary industries are iron and silver mining, as well as herring fishing and boat making. They are also home to a few prosperous mercenary companies.
Trade & Transport
Most transport is done by sea or river, bringing trade to a grinding halt during winter. Silver is often sold in Gallia in exchange for food, spices or silks from Ruuhin or simply coin. They also occasionally sell boats.
Infrastructure
Churok benefits from Elven roads, a few old Elven cities, with corresponding walls, sewers, etc. and a number of old Elven fortresses.
Founding Date
10021
Type
Geopolitical, Principality
Alternative Names
Chur's Land
Demonym
Churoka
Leader Title
Government System
Monarchy, Elective
Power Structure
Autonomous area
Economic System
Mixed economy
Gazetteer
Brei Chur, City of Heroes
Haligstir, City of Churches
Brei Gallag, the Unbroken Fortress
Lake Heirshi
Alvstir, the Old Capital
Currency
Gallian Crowns
Major Exports
Silver, boats
Major Imports
Silks and spices from Ruuhin, grain from Gallia
Legislative Body
The Assembly of Chieftains
Judicial Body
The Court of Chur
Executive Body
The Prince
Official State Religion
Related Ranks & Titles
Neighboring Nations
Notable Members
Related Species
Related Ethnicities
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