The Kingdom of Istova
Istova is a large kingdom located on the northeast peninsula of Jebesea. The capital of Istova is nearly impenetrable due to the fact that it rests within an ancient crater with very few means of entry, which has resulted in Istova holding its own against much more powerful military forces than its own, though many of the surrounding cities have been conquered and reclaimed multiple times. It is a diverse community filled with humans, dwarves and a few dragonborn, as well as small numbers of other races, which is thanks to its strong relations with Drenora and Luna. This has also led Istova to be the only nation on Jebesea to not directly participate in any of the wars between Achogon and Edeya, though they have, in the past, fought off both countries in response to conquering attempts.
Structure
At the top of the Istovan hierarchy is, of course, the king. The king of Istova has official control over the laws which govern the people, though he has less actual control further out due to the chaos within the royal family itself and the difficulty of travel. Just below the king of Istova is the rest of the royal family, as well as the monarchs of the cities the the Istovan king simply cannot control. Below that are the other nobles and the crownsguard, which work to maintain stability among the citizens as well as keep the royal family safe.
The king's successor is generally the oldest living male heir at the time of the king's death or retirement. The exception is when there is no male heir, in which case a queen is coronated. If there are no heirs, then the king's closest living family member is selected, regardless of social status or whether this family member is even a citizen of Istova.
Public Agenda
Istova is mainly focused on maintaining the well-being of its population, as no population means no kingdom. Different rulers will interpret this different ways, though religious freedom is generally maintained, and mostly freedom of speech, except if someone makes a direct threat against the royal family. Scientific research is also encouraged, largely because it will help with defense, control and comfortable living. The kingdom also tries to maintain friendly relations with Luna and Drenora, its two main trading partners.
History
Istova was founded when the city of Gondolin began expanding its influence beyond Gondolin Crater. The kingdom was dubbed Istova, and eventually expanded to cover the entire northeastern peninsula of Jebesea. it shrunk slightly after that, and some of the larger cities, while still technically a part of the kingdom, are no longer very affected by Gondolin.
Type
Geopolitical, Kingdom
Capital
Demonym
Istovan
Location
Controlled Territories
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