Asherah

Asherah is a powerful and ancient nation that sits at the crossroads between multiple trade routes. It is bordered to the east and south by a vast, scorching desert known as the Burning Sands, and to the north lies temperate grasslands that lead to a large lake called the Lake of Serenity. The country is named after its capital city, Asherah, which is located on the banks of the Great River, a massive waterway that runs the length of the country. The people of Asherah are known for their fierce independence, and the nation has a long history of repelling invading forces from the surrounding regions.
Asherah is famous for its elaborate system of underground aqueducts, which provide water to the cities and farmland even during the driest seasons. The people of Asherah have a tradition of intricate henna tattoos, often featuring symbols of their family, occupation, or beliefs. The nation is also home to a powerful order of knights known as the Order of the Crimson Blade, who are dedicated to defending the realm from all threats, foreign and domestic. They are known for their red armor and are feared by enemies for their skill and ferocity in battle. Asherah is home to a unique creature known as the Sandstrider, which is specifically adapted to survive in the harsh conditions of the desert. They are incredibly fast and agile, and their riders are highly skilled in hit-and-run tactics. These creatures are highly prized by traders and military commanders.

Geography: Asherah is bordered by the Burning Sands to the east and south, with the Great River running through the middle of the country. To the north lies temperate grasslands that lead to the Lake of Serenity, a massive body of water that serves as a vital source of fresh water and fish for the people
Society: Asherah's population is estimated to be around 3 hundred thousand, with the majority living in cities and towns along the river.
Culture: The people of Asherah have a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of desert and river traditions. Music, dance, and poetry are highly valued, and the henna tattoos mentioned earlier are a symbol of beauty and status.
Economy: Asherah's economy is based on agriculture, fishing, and trade. The river provides a constant source of water for irrigation, and the lake is a significant source of fish. The country's central location and access to trade routes make it a hub for commerce, and its merchants are known for their shrewd bargaining skills.
Politics: Asherah is ruled by a council of seven members, each appointed for life and representing a different aspect of society. The council makes decisions by consensus, and the people have a limited say in government affairs through local assemblies.
Demographics: The people of Asherah come from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds, including the indigenous tribes of the river delta and the desert nomads. The elite class is predominantly of river delta origin, while the lower classes are more diverse.
Militia: Asherah's military is composed of a mix of conscripts and professional soldiers, trained in various forms of combat including archery, swordsmanship, and horsemanship. The country is known for its cavalry units, which utilize the country's unique breed of horses. The Asheran military is defensive in nature, and the country's vast network of underground aqueducts and tunnels provides strategic advantages in times of war.