Valeron

Valeron is the largest continent in the world. For the last 5,000 years it has been ruled by the continent-spanning Empire of Valeron. the Empire was founded following the First Neodhean Invasion of Valeron which was narrowly defeated by a Triumvirate-style alliance of three rulers. King Hrisskar The Lawgiver of Hetola, Queen Eyres of Bashri, and King Baldus of Osman. These three successfully repelled the Neodheans and reconquered Valeron. But instead of returning these lands to their squabbling former rulers, they established the Empire of Valeron. Eyres and the First Empress, Hrisskar as High Marshal, and Baldus as Steward. Hrisskar, who was also a philosopher as well as a military commander and king, wrote a book that would come to be called "The Imperial Standard." the Standard is a code of conduct both for the nation and for the individual with order, discipline, and adherence to objective truth and virtue above all else.   While the Standard itself has never been legally enforced, it has made up the basis for much of Imperial law. Including some policies that would be described as culturally genocidal. Any cultures that are deemed to be incompatible with the Standard are often officially repressed for the sake of unity and peace on the continent.   Eyres ruled until her death, as did Baldus. Hrisskar led a small army on a relatively small operation, but neither he nor his army ever returned. They were presumed to have been killed in action, though no bodies were ever found. An organization known as the Imperial Cult has sprung up with Hrisskar as its central figure. They believe this ancient king will one day return to restore the Empire to glory as corruption and a second war with the Neodheans has crippled the Empires ability to rule Valeron with pirates and bandits now ruling the seas and roads. Various enclaves have also formed within Imperial borders and the Emperor now rules Valeron only in theory.