Nulfat Empire
According to Imperial historians, the Akivar were the first humans to forge an empire. By taking leadership over a shattered world, the Akivar elevated humanity to the forefront of all creation.
There are those who would disagree, and in Nulfat the Scarlet Emperors stake their claim to power on another view entirely. According to them, the west of the continent was home to a thriving human nation long before the Kivaru left their steppes. They see Annkala not as The First Empress, but as a divine saviour sent to rescue their people. The unification of Vannla under the Akivar banners was, in their view, a betrayal of Annkala's vision, brought forth by unworthy successors.
While the local populace have long thought themselves to be Akivar , local aristocracy kept claims of ancient heritage. When the province broke off from the Kivar Empire, it was led by an Emperor who proclaimed his dynasty to be descended from the ancient emperor Nulfatis.
Whatever the truth is, Akivar have backed their claim by force of arms, and in the course of their rebellion controlled much of the area north of the Twisted Peaks and west of Nemekhara. Their expansion continued until Empress Minamir of the Kivar Empire broke their invading force on the fields outside the city of Annkala. While the Akivar were unable to bring the wayward province back into the fold, successive Nulfati emperors abandoned enforcement of the idea that all humanity belongs under their banner.
Although Nulfat has since declined in power and importance, it's still one of this age's most potent states. A strong fleet, capable cavalry, and a large, diverse population are all counted amongst its assets. In recent years it has been rocked by a civil war of its own. The rebel Kivar fleet, which largely fled to Nulfat after the Tyrant's victory, has anchored here - but their resources have been spent as much in internal Nulfati struggles, as in any other endeavour.
Demography and Population
Nulfat is a populous nation, with many sizeable towns and a number of large cities. Much of the population is concentrated along the north-west coast, while the south-east is largely open, and under the control of a small number of powerful magnates.
The population is largely human, but with sizeable hobgoblin, orc, halfling and dwarven communities. The capital of Annyelu is, according to its lords, "the greatest city of this or any age". It benefits from extensive fortifications and vast sewers, and it appears to have been built on ancient ruins which have provided as much threat as opportunity to those dwelling above.
Territories
Nulfat's territory is continuous, but its north-eastern border is flanked by semi-independent city states subservient to the Scarlet Empress. The western shore is home to most of the nation's food production, but its greatest ports hug the northern sea.
Military
Nulfati military has evolved from that of the Kivar Empire. Heavy Kivaru cavalry has largely been replaced by lighter units, and supplemented by rideable monitor lizards, used to scout the sands of the central deserts. Spearmen form the core of the army, supported by archers and many war-machines.
The nation's navy has been heavily depleted in conflicts with Gaceta and the Aanitwa in recent decades. However, it has more recently been augmented by Kivaru admirals who defected following the Tyrant's victory.
Agriculture & Industry
The empire's economy is based upon three pillars. The first are the rich orchards of its western coast, and the fine wine and liquor produced from its fruits. The second are its tools and weapons, ranging from fine steel to skymetal, which are sought everywhere on Vannla. The third are books, for the armies scribes in Imperial employ produce a mass of writing that is unmatched by any other modern nation.
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