Ethessia, the Golden Kingdom Organization in The World of Varda | World Anvil
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Ethessia, the Golden Kingdom

Historical and archaeological research is a dangerous field in regards to the northern parts of the continent of Vastalia. A vast proportion of the land is now referred to simply as “The Shattered Kingdoms”, several countries plagued by war, disease and famine. Seldom do outsiders venture in to the desolate wastelands, and fewer return. If it were not for the country of Therrezia, all historical records of how the land became so perilous would be lost.   Artefacts and writings recovered cross the region speak of a nation known as Ethessia, which thrived across much of the northern parts of Vastalia. It is thanks to the success of this country that much is still known about its history, and there are many Therrezian historians that have specialised and pieced together a near-complete record.  

The Rise of Ethessia

  Around the year 2400 BA (Before Arden), Ethessia emerged as a beacon of civilization. Founded by immigrants from across the sea, the country rapidly expanded, incorporating neighbouring territories through diplomatic prowess and, when necessary, strategic military campaigns. It became known as Ethessia, the Silver Empire, and was governed by a wise council that oversaw the laws of the land.   As the Empire grew in power, so did its political governance change. A great family had always been part of the ruling Council, being at the forefront of every decision that bought prosperity to the lands. The decision to install the family as official rulers was met with great joy, and The Silver Empire soon became known as The Golden Kingdom.  

The Golden Kingdom

  With the ruling line of House Astrion leading it, Ethessia grew greater still. Cultural richness, sophisticated governance, mastery of magical arts; all these traits, Ethessia became known for.   The kingdom thrived for centuries, reaching its zenith around 1200 BA under the reign of Queen Elysandra. During her rule, Ethessia reached the height of magical and technological advancements, establishing strong trade connections with neighbouring realms and fostering a golden age of prosperity.  

The Vastalian Dark Ages

  The prosperity of Ethessia would not last, as around the year 1100 BA a sudden and great calamity struck. Records of this event are scarce, for the ferocity of the catastrophe and its mysterious nature left little recordings of what happened. From what can be gleamed, dark forces from other realms were unleashed, that tore through he very fabric of Ethessia's existence. Chaos reigned as cities crumbled, and the very nature of magic was disrupted.   Thus, the Vastalian Dark Ages began. The kingdom fractured, the surviving remnants each carving their own paths against the turmoil of famine, plague and societal collapse. The once-majestic kingdom of Ethessia had become a distant memory, and the continent of Vastalia was forever altered. The ruins of ancient Ethessian cities stood as sombre reminders of a bygone era, its relics and history now only remembered by those fortunate to survive the cataclysm that struck the land over 2000 years ago.


Cover image: by EdeLaszlo_FONTILLO

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