Vollis |Outdated|
Structure
Monarch
Role and Responsibilities
The monarch of Vollis, from the Veldt Family, is the supreme ruler of the kingdom. The monarch oversees all major decisions related to governance, economic policies, and military strategy.Succession
The title of monarch is hereditary, typically passed down to the firstborn child. In cases where the monarch has no heirs, the next in line from the royal family is chosen based on lineage and merit.Dukes
Role and Responsibilities
Dukes govern large territories and oversee multiple counties. They are responsible for maintaining order, implementing policies, and overseeing the counts within their regions. Dukes act as intermediaries between the counts and the monarch, ensuring that regional concerns are addressed at the highest levels of government.Appointments
Dukes are appointed from the nobility, often from families with long-standing loyalty to the Veldt dynasty. The title is hereditary.Counts
Role and Responsibilities
Counts govern counties, which are large administrative divisions within Vollis. They are responsible for managing economic activities, including trade and commerce, within their regions. Counts oversee the implementation of economic policies and ensure that their counties contribute to the kingdom's overall prosperity.Appointments
Counts are usually appointed from the nobility and are often chosen for their economic acumen and loyalty to the Veldt family. The title is hereditary, passing from parent to child.Barons
Role and Responsibilities
Barons govern smaller territories within the counties and are responsible for local administration, law enforcement, and tax collection. They also manage local militia forces and ensure the implementation of both county and ducal policies.Appointments
Barons are appointed by the counts or dukes, often as a reward for loyalty and service. The title is typically hereditary.Culture
Culture of Vollis
Vollis, the western kingdom of the Vontian Empire, is a region rich in diversity and cultural amalgamation. Governed by the Veldt family, Vollis is known for its economic strength, but its culture is deeply influenced by the various peoples who inhabit its lands and the extensive trade networks that bring in influences from across the seas.Language
The primary language in Vollis is Common, which facilitates trade and communication within the kingdom and with foreign merchants. Due to its diverse population, many other languages are spoken, including Elvish, Dwarvish, and various dialects from neighboring regions and trading partners. This multilingualism reflects the kingdom’s inclusiveness and its role as a cultural crossroads.Folklore
Vollis’s folklore is a tapestry of tales from both land and sea. Stories of legendary sailors who battled pirates and sea monsters are common, inspiring courage and adventure. These tales often include mythical creatures like krakens and mermaids, as well as legendary figures who have become part of the kingdom's lore.On land, the folklore includes tales of the highland beasts and mysterious creatures that roam the forests and mountains. Stories of cunning foxes, wise owls, and elusive spirits are passed down through generations, reflecting the kingdom’s deep connection to its natural environment.
Fine Arts
Art in Vollis is a reflection of its cultural diversity. The kingdom’s artists draw inspiration from a wide range of sources, creating works that are both unique and varied. Paintings and sculptures often depict scenes from daily life, historical events, and mythical tales. The influence of different cultures is evident in the styles and techniques used, making Vollis a hub for artistic innovation.Performing arts are also vibrant in Vollis, with theaters hosting plays, operas, and musical performances that celebrate the kingdom’s rich heritage. Street performances and festivals showcase traditional dances and music from various cultures, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
Dress
Vollis’s attire reflects its diverse influences. Traditional clothing varies greatly depending on the region and cultural background. Coastal areas feature garments suitable for seafaring life, while highland regions have attire designed for the rugged terrain. Common elements include intricate embroidery, colorful patterns, and practical designs that cater to both style and functionality.Literature
Literature in Vollis is as diverse as its people. The kingdom boasts a rich tradition of storytelling, with works ranging from epic sagas and historical chronicles to poetry and folk tales. Libraries and academies throughout Vollis house extensive collections of books and manuscripts, attracting scholars and writers from across the empire. The themes often explore the human condition, nature, and the adventures of legendary figures.Holidays and Festivals
Vollis celebrates a variety of holidays and festivals that reflect its cultural diversity and maritime heritage:Sea Festival: An annual celebration honoring the sea and its bounty, featuring boat races, seafood feasts, and maritime competitions.
Harvest Festival: Marking the end of the agricultural season, this festival includes feasts, dances, and the sharing of stories and music.
Cultural Exchange Week: A week-long event where people from different cultural backgrounds showcase their traditions, crafts, and cuisines.
Food
Vollis’s cuisine is a fusion of local ingredients and exotic imports. Coastal areas are known for their seafood dishes, including grilled fish, shellfish stews, and seaweed salads. Inland, the cuisine features hearty stews, roasted meats, and fresh vegetables. Spices and ingredients from trading partners add a unique flavor to the kingdom’s culinary offerings, making meals in Vollis both diverse and flavorful.Manners and Etiquette
Manners in Vollis emphasize respect and hospitality. Politeness and formality are valued, especially in business dealings and social interactions. Guests are treated with great honor, and sharing meals is a common way to build relationships. The kingdom’s diverse population fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding.Common Societal Roles
Societal roles in Vollis are varied and dynamic:Merchants: Key players in the kingdom’s economy, engaging in trade and commerce.
Artisans: Skilled craftsmen who produce goods for local use and export.
Fishermen and Farmers: Essential to the kingdom’s food supply and local economy.
Nobles: Oversee large estates and economic ventures, involved in governance and social affairs.
Commoners: Engage in various trades, agriculture, and local businesses, contributing to the kingdom’s prosperity.
Ambitions and Outlook
The people of Vollis are ambitious and entrepreneurial, driven by a desire for success and innovation. They are open to new ideas and influences, creating a dynamic and adaptive society.Public Agenda
Priorities
Economic Growth
Vollis prioritizes economic development and prosperity, leveraging its position as an economic powerhouse.Trade Expansion
The kingdom focuses on expanding its trade networks, both within the empire and with foreign regions.Innovation and Infrastructure
Vollis aims to foster innovation and improve infrastructure to support its economic activities.Initiatives
Trade Agreements
Vollis actively negotiates trade agreements with other kingdoms and foreign regions to expand its market reach and economic influence.Economic Policies
The kingdom implements policies that support businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, and attract investments.Infrastructure Projects
Vollis invests in infrastructure projects, such as building roads, ports, and marketplaces, to facilitate trade and commerce.History
The founding of Vollis is steeped in conflict, greed, and eventual unity. The lands beyond the western mountains were initially a contentious territory between Bheria and Formir. For over a century, Formir had been isolated and unaware of Bheria's intentions, a fatal ignorance that would lead to bloody conflict.
Formir sought to move southward through mountain valleys to establish farms to support its northern people, while Bherian nobility coveted the west for access to the sea and potential trade routes. The initial interactions between Bherian and Formirian explorers quickly turned hostile as both sides realized the other’s intentions. Bheria, true to its diplomatic nature, attempted to negotiate, and a tentative agreement was reached: Bheria would settle the southwest lands, and Formir the north. However, the mountains hampered communication, and misunderstandings soon arose.
Among the Bherian settlers was the ambitious Dolmatra family, who discovered that the lands allotted to Formir were rich with giant boars. These creatures were valuable for their meat, hide, and bones, the latter being a key ingredient in potions of healing. Igor Dolmatra saw immense profit potential and initially tried to trade with the Formirians, who had no need for Bherian crowns (copper, silver, and gold coins, known colloquially as "crows"). Frustrated by their refusal, Igor sought support from other nobles and even approached King Benjamin Nightland. However, the king dismissed the matter, deeming it not worth the risk of war.
Unwilling to relent, the Dolmatra family and their allies resorted to poaching and deceit, encroaching on Formirian lands. This aggressive expansion and the resulting skirmishes soon caught the attention of Formir’s Council Master Arsorra. Fiercely loyal to her people, Arsorra ordered a swift military response, catching the Bherian settlers off guard.
The conflict escalated rapidly. Bheria, unaware of the Dolmatra’s provocations, saw the Formirian advance as an unprovoked attack. Thus began a brutal thirty-year war, soaking the western lands in blood. Thousands died as both sides fought fiercely, with neither willing to back down.
Amid this chaos, Willis Veldt was born during the second decade of the war. Unlike many of his peers, Willis did not believe in the conflict. He saw the senselessness of the bloodshed and, driven by compassion, began rescuing wounded soldiers from both sides, using his growing medical knowledge to heal them. His actions led him to a Formirian commander, who revealed the truth about the Dolmatra’s initial provocation.
Willis returned to the capital and, with the Duke of Greyfall’s support, presented his findings to the king. Shocked by the revelation, Bheria called for a ceasefire. Over the next year, diplomatic efforts were renewed, and a new border was drawn. The people of the west, however, had been changed by the war. They began to see themselves not as Bherian or Formirian but as something new.
This growing sense of unity led to a rebellion against both Bheria and Formir. The people of the west sought liberation, desiring to become a single entity—Vollis. Willis Veldt and the Formirian commander he had saved, now his wife, became symbols of this new identity. Their mixed heritage represented the unity of the two formerly warring factions.
Formir and Bheria, unwilling to shed more blood, acquiesced to the demands for independence. The Veldt family, now a symbol of unity and mixed heritage, rose to prominence, with Willis Veldt crowned as the first king of Vollis. Trade with Bheria continued, albeit at higher costs, and Formirians engaged in barter, maintaining their self-sufficiency while benefiting from the fertile lands of Vollis.
Over the decades, Vollis grew into an economic powerhouse, a cultural melting pot where people from all four kingdoms mingled without prejudice. The kingdom’s bloody beginnings gave way to a prosperous future, underpinned by unity and cooperation. The story of Vollis stands as a testament to the power of reconciliation and the enduring human spirit.
Formir sought to move southward through mountain valleys to establish farms to support its northern people, while Bherian nobility coveted the west for access to the sea and potential trade routes. The initial interactions between Bherian and Formirian explorers quickly turned hostile as both sides realized the other’s intentions. Bheria, true to its diplomatic nature, attempted to negotiate, and a tentative agreement was reached: Bheria would settle the southwest lands, and Formir the north. However, the mountains hampered communication, and misunderstandings soon arose.
Among the Bherian settlers was the ambitious Dolmatra family, who discovered that the lands allotted to Formir were rich with giant boars. These creatures were valuable for their meat, hide, and bones, the latter being a key ingredient in potions of healing. Igor Dolmatra saw immense profit potential and initially tried to trade with the Formirians, who had no need for Bherian crowns (copper, silver, and gold coins, known colloquially as "crows"). Frustrated by their refusal, Igor sought support from other nobles and even approached King Benjamin Nightland. However, the king dismissed the matter, deeming it not worth the risk of war.
Unwilling to relent, the Dolmatra family and their allies resorted to poaching and deceit, encroaching on Formirian lands. This aggressive expansion and the resulting skirmishes soon caught the attention of Formir’s Council Master Arsorra. Fiercely loyal to her people, Arsorra ordered a swift military response, catching the Bherian settlers off guard.
The conflict escalated rapidly. Bheria, unaware of the Dolmatra’s provocations, saw the Formirian advance as an unprovoked attack. Thus began a brutal thirty-year war, soaking the western lands in blood. Thousands died as both sides fought fiercely, with neither willing to back down.
Amid this chaos, Willis Veldt was born during the second decade of the war. Unlike many of his peers, Willis did not believe in the conflict. He saw the senselessness of the bloodshed and, driven by compassion, began rescuing wounded soldiers from both sides, using his growing medical knowledge to heal them. His actions led him to a Formirian commander, who revealed the truth about the Dolmatra’s initial provocation.
Willis returned to the capital and, with the Duke of Greyfall’s support, presented his findings to the king. Shocked by the revelation, Bheria called for a ceasefire. Over the next year, diplomatic efforts were renewed, and a new border was drawn. The people of the west, however, had been changed by the war. They began to see themselves not as Bherian or Formirian but as something new.
This growing sense of unity led to a rebellion against both Bheria and Formir. The people of the west sought liberation, desiring to become a single entity—Vollis. Willis Veldt and the Formirian commander he had saved, now his wife, became symbols of this new identity. Their mixed heritage represented the unity of the two formerly warring factions.
Formir and Bheria, unwilling to shed more blood, acquiesced to the demands for independence. The Veldt family, now a symbol of unity and mixed heritage, rose to prominence, with Willis Veldt crowned as the first king of Vollis. Trade with Bheria continued, albeit at higher costs, and Formirians engaged in barter, maintaining their self-sufficiency while benefiting from the fertile lands of Vollis.
Over the decades, Vollis grew into an economic powerhouse, a cultural melting pot where people from all four kingdoms mingled without prejudice. The kingdom’s bloody beginnings gave way to a prosperous future, underpinned by unity and cooperation. The story of Vollis stands as a testament to the power of reconciliation and the enduring human spirit.
Military
Vollis’s military is the weakest among the four kingdoms, relying heavily on mercenaries during times of conflict. The kingdom’s focus on economic prosperity means that its standing army is smaller and less well-equipped compared to others.
Divisions
Standing Army
Vollis maintains a small standing army composed of local soldiers and levies contributed by noble houses. These troops are trained but not as extensively as those in other kingdoms.Mercenaries
In times of war, Vollis hires mercenaries from across the sea and neighboring regions. These hired soldiers bolster the kingdom’s military strength, providing experienced and battle-hardened troops.Technological Level
The people of Vollis are expert shipbuilders, known for creating some of the largest and most advanced vessels to touch western waters.
Key Innovations
Large Cargo Ships
One of these ships, titled Porphyrios, is a cargo vessel capable of transporting thousands of tons of cargo at moderate speeds, reinforced by Gicarthian innovation. It supports the day-to-day life of five hundred people, making it a marvel of engineering and design.The Hverey Warship
The Hverey is an out-of-commission warship that sits in the farthest dock of Velis' harbor. It is the largest warship ever commissioned, created for use by the Imperial Navy decades ago. Now it stands as a trophy for Vollis and its people.Trade & Transport
Construct-Drawn Carts
Vollis imports magical constructs from Gicarthium to power its carts. These are primarily used by the wealthy and for critical transport needs due to their high cost.Maritime Trade
As a coastal kingdom, Vollis relies heavily on maritime trade. The kingdom’s ports are bustling hubs of activity, with ships arriving and departing regularly, facilitating both domestic and international commerce.Road Network
An extensive network of roads connects all major settlements within Vollis. These roads are crucial for internal trade and the movement of goods and people.Highland Horses
Vollis is known for its highland horses, which are highly valued for their endurance. These horses are used extensively for both transport and trade, particularly in the rugged highland areas.Education
Educational Structure
Urban Education
In cities and towns, children from wealthy families receive formal education, focusing on subjects needed to manage businesses or enter trades.Rural Education
The rural population, which constitutes half of Vollis’s inhabitants, typically lacks formal education. Learning is mostly practical, centered around the needs of daily life and local trades.Curriculum
Basic Skills
Urban students learn basic literacy, numeracy, and subjects pertinent to running family businesses or engaging in trades.Trade-Specific Education
Education in rural areas is informal, focusing on the skills required for agricultural work, craftsmanship, and other local trades.Infrastructure
Key Elements
Port Cities
Vollis has several major port cities with advanced docking facilities, warehouses, and customs offices. These ports are essential for international trade.Road Networks
A network of roads connects the major urban centers, facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people. Highland horses and construct-drawn carts are commonly seen on these routes.Market Hubs
Large, bustling markets are central to Vollis’s cities, where traders and merchants from all over the empire come to buy and sell goods.Trade Infrastructure
Facilities for storing, processing, and distributing imported and exported goods are well-developed, ensuring smooth and efficient trade operations.Public Buildings and Services
Vollis boasts numerous public buildings, including schools and administrative centers, providing essential services to its diverse population.
"Like a butterfly to a beautiful garden, opulence comes to the fortunate"
Founding Date
132 AAE
Type
Geopolitical, Kingdom
Capital
Demonym
Vollins
Leader
Leader Title
Founders
Head of State
Head of Government
Government System
Monarchy, Absolute
Power Structure
Confederation
Economic System
Market economy
Currency
Imperial Coin
Handles the demonoations of currency in copper, silver, gold, and platnium coins.
The merchant guilds manage the bank in the west as they do the east and central kingdoms. Although much more closely as there is so much money moving through the banks at any given time. Not being careful could lead to a massive scandal that topples the bank network. Sending the empire into a panic.
Major Exports
Textiles: Vollis produces high-quality textiles, including fabrics, clothing, and tapestries. These goods are in high demand for their craftsmanship and design.
Luxury Goods: Jewelry, perfumes, and finely crafted furniture from Vollis are exported to wealthier regions, where they are considered status symbols.
Processed Goods: Vollis exports a variety of processed foods, such as wines, cheeses, and preserved meats, which are popular in markets across the empire.
Agricultural Products: Although not as extensive as Bheria, Vollis exports a range of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
Artisan Crafts: The kingdom is known for its pottery, glasswork, and other artisan crafts, which are traded extensively.
Imported Goods: As a major trade hub, Vollis re-exports goods imported from other regions, including spices, silks, and exotic items from across the sea.
Luxury Goods: Jewelry, perfumes, and finely crafted furniture from Vollis are exported to wealthier regions, where they are considered status symbols.
Processed Goods: Vollis exports a variety of processed foods, such as wines, cheeses, and preserved meats, which are popular in markets across the empire.
Agricultural Products: Although not as extensive as Bheria, Vollis exports a range of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
Artisan Crafts: The kingdom is known for its pottery, glasswork, and other artisan crafts, which are traded extensively.
Imported Goods: As a major trade hub, Vollis re-exports goods imported from other regions, including spices, silks, and exotic items from across the sea.
Major Imports
Exotic Spices and Foods: Vollis imports a wide variety of exotic spices, herbs, and foods that are not native to the empire. These imports enhance the local cuisine and are highly sought after in Vollis’s bustling markets.
Silks and Fine Fabrics: High-quality silks and luxurious fabrics from distant lands are brought into Vollis. These materials are used to produce exquisite garments and textiles, which are then sold both locally and to neighboring kingdoms.
Precious Gems and Metals: Vollis imports rare gems and precious metals from far-off regions. These include diamonds, rubies, and Palladium, which are then used by local artisans to create stunning jewelry and decorative items.
Art and Artifacts: The kingdom imports unique art pieces, cultural artifacts, and antiquities from various civilizations across the western seas. These items are prized by collectors and add to the cultural of Vollis.
Advanced Technologies and Innovations: Vollis brings in advanced technological items and innovations that are not available within the empire. This includes mechanical devices, alchemical concoctions, and advanced crafting tools.
Rare Woods and Building Material: Exotic woods like teak and mahogany, along with other rare building materials, are imported for use in construction and fine woodworking. These materials are prized for their durability and beauty.
Medicinal Plants and Herbal Remedies: Vollis imports rare medicinal plants and herbal remedies from distant lands. These imports include the very valuable Jade Moss.
Luxury Items: High-end luxury goods such as perfumes, fine alcohol, and unique handcrafted items are imported to satisfy the tastes of Vollis’s wealthy citizens.
Livestock and Exotic Animals: The kingdom also imports rare and exotic animals, both for agricultural purposes and as pets for the affluent. The most infamous of these imports is Baby Owlbears. It is illegal to take Owlbear cubs from Imperial lands, so this loophole is not only lucrative but controversial
Legislative Body
Royal Council
In Vollis, the laws are drafted by the Royal Council, which is composed of high-ranking nobles and advisors appointed by the monarch, and passed by said monarch. This council includes representatives from influential families and key economic sectors. The Royal Council meets regularly to draft and pass legislation, ensuring that the kingdom’s laws address the needs of its diverse populace and support its economic interests.
Judicial Body
High Court
The High Court of Vollis is responsible for interpreting the laws. This court consists of experienced judges appointed by the monarch. The High Court handles major legal disputes, oversees the application of laws, and ensures that justice is administered fairly and impartially. It also serves as the final appellate court for significant legal matters.
Executive Body
Royal Guard:
The Royal Guard is the highest excutive body tasked with enforcing the laws in Vollis. Operating under the command of the monarch and the Royal Council, the Royal Guard includes royal soldiers and special units that manage various aspects of law enforcement. They ensure peace and order, investigate crimes, and apprehend lawbreakers, maintaining stability throughout the kingdom. The Royal Guard also have the authority to judge criminals on the spot if caught in the act of the crime, in this case they act as both judge and disciplinary. Unlike teh Royal Guard, local militia doesn't not have this authority.
Parent Organization
Deities
Location
Official Languages
Neighboring Nations
Notable Members
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