Arius
The continent of Arius is renowned for its vast lakes and seafaring civilisations. It was originally inhabited primarily by tribal communities who depended on fishing and agriculture. As the population expanded, resources became increasingly scarce, leading to conflicts between the tribes. Over time, six dominant tribes emerged, each with its own territory and cultural identity. These were the Seafarers, the Lake Dwellers, the Plainsfolk, the Mountain Clan, the Forest People, and the Desert Nomads.
These tribes frequently clashed over control of land and resources. However, the ongoing conflicts also spurred technological advancements, as each tribe sought to gain an advantage over the others. The Seafarers developed advanced ships capable of navigating the treacherous lakes, while the Plainsfolk bred horses renowned for their speed and agility in battle. The Lake Dwellers engineered intricate irrigation systems to maximise crop yields, and the Mountain Clan constructed strong fortresses to defend their territories.
After centuries of warfare and strife, the six tribes eventually reached a precarious balance of power and established six distinct countries: Norvada, Belmara, Murannion, Ariania, Morvindor, and Arterra. Each country developed its own government, laws, and customs, though all shared a common language and cultural heritage. Over the subsequent centuries, the countries of Arius enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity, supported by their advanced technologies and fertile lands. They maintained close relations through the exchange of goods, knowledge, and ideas.
A couple of hundred years ago, the countries of Arius began exploring and expanding beyond their borders. They established trading posts around the world and grew to become a major economic power.
Today, technological advancement continues, driven by the need for improved transportation and communication. Steam-powered ships and trains have revolutionised travel and trade, while telegraph and telephone lines link even the most remote parts of the continent. Although the countries of Arius remain wealthy and influential, they have become increasingly isolationist, wary of foreign powers and content to preserve their wealth and prosperity within their own borders. Nevertheless, their seafaring tradition and advanced ship designs continue to ensure their dominance in world affairs.
Norvada: The Maritime Power of Arius
Geography and Climate
Norvada, situated along the north-western coast of Arius, is a nation defined by its relationship with the sea. Its rugged coastline is dotted with natural harbours, fostering a long history of seafaring and trade. The interior consists of rolling hills, fertile farmland, and industrial centres, while the northern regions are characterised by colder climates and highland terrain. Frequent rainfall and strong coastal winds have shaped both its agriculture and architecture, with cities built to withstand the elements.
History and Formation
Emerging from the Seafarer tribe, Norvada was historically a collection of independent maritime clans controlling various stretches of coastline. These clans thrived on fishing, trade, and naval skirmishes, often raiding inland settlements and rival coastal tribes. As competition intensified, the strongest clans consolidated power, leading to the formation of a unified Norvada. By the time the six dominant nations of Arius crystallised, Norvada had established itself as a formidable naval force, securing its place in regional politics.
Norvada’s naval prowess has long been its defining characteristic. By the time steam-powered ships became commonplace, Norvada had already built an extensive fleet, allowing it to dominate trade routes and maintain a strong global presence. Its shipbuilding industry, centred in the massive port cities of Havensworth and Port Geldan, produces some of the most advanced vessels in the world. While the rest of Arius has turned inward in recent centuries, Norvada has continued to expand its economic and political influence overseas, leveraging its maritime strength to secure trade agreements and maintain strategic naval outposts.
In addition to shipbuilding, Norvada was an early adopter of industrialisation. Factories and mills sprang up across the nation, producing textiles, machinery, and steel, further solidifying its economic might. Railways connect major cities, ensuring the efficient movement of goods and people, while telegraph lines keep its sprawling trade networks coordinated.
Government and Society
Norvada is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system that balances power between the ruling monarch and an elected legislative body. While the monarchy remains a symbol of national unity and tradition, true governance rests in the hands of Parliament, composed of elected representatives from across the nation. A strong emphasis on law, order, and bureaucracy has allowed Norvada to maintain stability, even as industrialisation has brought social upheaval.
The population is largely urbanised, with major cities serving as hubs of commerce, industry, and naval operations. Norvadans are known for their pragmatic outlook, disciplined work ethic, and fierce national pride. Though they value tradition, they also embrace technological progress, particularly in the fields of naval engineering, industrial production, and communications.
Foreign Relations and Influence
Unlike many of its neighbours in Arius, Norvada has resisted the growing trend of isolationism. While it does not seek outright expansion, it actively engages in global trade and diplomacy. Norvada maintains a network of international trading posts and exerts significant economic influence over distant markets. Its navy ensures that no foreign power threatens its maritime interests, making it one of the most strategically important nations in the world.
Despite its wealth and power, Norvada remains cautious of growing tensions abroad. It views the neutral stance between Arius and Saxum as beneficial, preferring to avoid direct conflict while maintaining its position as a global maritime leader. However, with the world evolving and new powers rising, Norvada must decide whether to maintain its current course or take a more assertive role in shaping the future of international affairs.
Belmara: The Sunlit Kingdom of Arius
Geography and Climate
Belmara occupies the south-western portion of Arius, boasting a warm, temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters. The landscape is diverse, ranging from fertile plains and rolling hills to rugged mountains and an extensive coastline along the southern seas. Rich in natural resources, Belmara has historically been a land of agriculture, viticulture, and mineral wealth, with vast olive groves, vineyards, and gold and silver mines that have fuelled its economy for centuries.
History and Formation
Descended from the Plainsfolk, Belmara’s early history was marked by nomadic herders and warrior clans who roamed the sun-drenched plains. These clans often clashed over territory but were eventually united under a single ruling dynasty, forming the foundation of modern Belmara. Its strategic coastal position allowed it to become a hub of maritime trade and exploration, with Belmaran fleets once charting new waters and establishing far-reaching trade networks.
During its golden age, Belmara was among the most influential nations of Arius, known for its wealth, military prowess, and cultural achievements. However, as time passed and global politics shifted, Belmara’s dominance waned. While it remains a powerful and respected nation, it no longer wields the same level of influence it once did.
While no longer the undisputed maritime leader of Arius, Belmara retains a capable navy and a well-trained army. Its military is renowned for its discipline and expertise in cavalry tactics, a remnant of its Plainsfolk ancestry. Fortified cities and strategic naval bases ensure that Belmara remains well-defended, though its focus has shifted from expansion to maintaining internal stability and guarding its trade routes.
Despite industrial advancements, Belmara has been slower than Norvada in fully embracing modernisation. Traditional values remain deeply ingrained in its military structure, though recent efforts have been made to integrate steam-powered ships and rail systems to maintain competitiveness.
Government and Society
Belmara is a constitutional monarchy, though its ruling dynasty wields considerable influence compared to some of its Ariusian counterparts. The monarchy shares power with an elected assembly, but nobles and wealthy landowners still hold significant sway over political affairs. The social structure is more rigid than in Norvada, with old aristocratic families retaining their status, though industrialisation has allowed for some upward mobility.
Culturally, Belmara is a land of passion and tradition, known for its vibrant festivals, rich artistic heritage, and deep connection to history. Literature, music, and grand architecture reflect both its glorious past and its enduring pride. Religion plays a more pronounced role in Belmaran society than in some neighbouring nations, with grand cathedrals and religious institutions still holding considerable influence over daily life.
Foreign Relations and Influence
Though it has stepped back from global expansion, Belmara maintains strong trade ties, particularly with nations that share its interest in preserving traditional ways of life. It views Norvada’s naval dominance with some suspicion but also sees cooperation as necessary to protect its own maritime interests. Among the nations of Arius, Belmara is often regarded as a bridge between the old world and the new—upholding tradition while cautiously stepping into the age of industrialisation.
As the world changes and new challenges arise, Belmara faces a crossroads: will it cling to its storied past, or will it embrace the future and reclaim a more active role on the world stage?
Murannion: The Heart of Arius
Geography and Climate
Murannion lies in the central region of Arius, a land of rolling plains, fertile farmland, and grand rivers that serve as vital trade arteries. Its temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers, has allowed agriculture to flourish, making it one of the most productive nations on the continent. The eastern highlands provide natural defences, while the western coastline grants access to international trade, though Murannion has historically focused more on continental affairs than maritime dominance.
History and Formation
Murannion emerged from the Lake Dwellers, an early civilisation that built advanced irrigation and agricultural systems, allowing for population growth and political centralisation. Over time, these settlements consolidated into a powerful kingdom, marked by a strong central authority and an emphasis on cultural refinement.
Throughout history, Murannion has played a central role in Ariusian affairs, often acting as both a unifier and a battleground for ideological struggles. Its rulers have long sought to maintain influence over the continent, whether through diplomacy, conquest, or economic power. Several periods of internal upheaval, marked by revolutions, reform movements, and shifting power structures, have shaped Murannion into a nation that values both strong governance and the ideals of liberty and progress.
Military and Industrial Strength
Murannion boasts one of the most disciplined and well-organised armies in Arius. Historically known for its skilled infantry and tactical innovations, the nation has adapted to the industrial age by incorporating steam-powered artillery, rail-based troop movements, and advanced logistical networks. While not as dominant at sea as Norvada or Belmara, its land forces remain among the most formidable, capable of both defensive warfare and rapid offensives.
Industrialisation has swept through Murannion, with massive factories producing textiles, steel, and machinery. Railways connect major cities, fostering both economic growth and military mobility. Murannion has also been at the forefront of technological and scientific advancements, with leading intellectuals driving progress in engineering, medicine, and philosophy.
Government and Society
Murannion is a constitutional republic with a strong central government. While a noble class still exists, its influence has waned over the past century, replaced by elected officials and a bureaucracy that governs with efficiency. Political life is vibrant, with ideological debates shaping national policy, often leading to reforms that balance tradition with modernity.
Culturally, Murannion is a beacon of refinement, known for its contributions to literature, art, fashion, and cuisine. Its universities and salons attract scholars and philosophers from across Arius, making it a hub for intellectual and artistic movements. The people of Murannion take great pride in their cultural heritage and see themselves as the standard-bearers of civilisation and progress.
Foreign Relations and Influence
Murannion maintains complex relationships with its neighbours. It has historically been both an ally and a rival to Norvada, with periods of cooperation punctuated by fierce competition. It sees itself as the natural leader of Arius, promoting unity and continental stability while resisting isolationist trends.
Despite its global reach in science and trade, Murannion is not as outwardly expansionist as it once was. Instead, it focuses on maintaining its influence through diplomacy, culture, and economic partnerships. However, should its interests be threatened, Murannion is more than willing to assert its power, whether through military action or strategic alliances.
As Arius faces new technological and political shifts, Murannion stands at the forefront of innovation, grappling with the question of how best to shape the continent’s future while preserving its own legacy as the heart of Ariusian civilisation.
Ariania: The Northern Stronghold
Geography and Climate
Ariania dominates the northern reaches of Arius, a land of towering mountains, vast forests, and icy fjords. The climate is harsh, with long, bitter winters and short, cool summers. However, the land is rich in timber, iron, and fish, which have sustained its people for generations. The rugged terrain has fostered a culture of resilience and self-sufficiency, with settlements clustered along the coasts and river valleys where agriculture is possible.
History and Formation
Ariania traces its roots to the Seafarers, a hardy and adventurous people who thrived along the cold northern shores. Early Arianian society was built on seafaring, raiding, and trade, with powerful clans controlling key waterways. Over centuries, these clans gradually unified under a central authority, leading to the formation of the modern nation.
Despite its isolation, Ariania has played a crucial role in Ariusian history, particularly as a maritime power. Its explorers were among the first to establish distant trading posts, and its warriors gained a formidable reputation in battle. Unlike some of its neighbours, Ariania was slower to urbanise, with many communities retaining strong ties to their ancestral homelands.
Ariania boasts one of the most formidable navies in Arius. Though smaller than Norvada’s, its warships are designed for speed and endurance, capable of navigating treacherous northern waters. On land, Ariania’s military relies on highly trained, disciplined infantry, specialising in defensive warfare and winter campaigns. Its soldiers are known for their tenacity, able to withstand brutal conditions that would cripple other armies.
While industrialisation has reached Ariania, it has done so at a slower pace than in Murannion or Belmara. The nation’s reliance on traditional craftsmanship remains strong, though recent decades have seen the expansion of ironworks, shipyards, and rail networks.
Government and Society
Ariania is a constitutional monarchy, with a ruling monarch who shares power with an elected assembly. The government is structured around regional councils, ensuring that local communities retain a degree of autonomy. The monarchy, though respected, serves primarily as a unifying symbol, with governance largely in the hands of elected officials and noble landowners.
Arianian society places great value on honour, duty, and communal responsibility. Despite its harsh climate, the people maintain strong social bonds, with festivals, storytelling, and music playing a vital role in cultural life. Egalitarian values run deep, with a strong tradition of collective decision-making and personal independence.
Foreign Relations and Influence
Ariania has historically remained somewhat detached from continental politics, preferring to focus on its own affairs. However, it maintains strong trade relationships with its Ariusian neighbours, supplying timber, iron, and fish in exchange for manufactured goods and luxuries. It views Norvada as both a competitor and an occasional ally, while maintaining a wary respect for Murannion’s influence.
Though not as openly expansionist as in its seafaring past, Ariania remains a nation of explorers, merchants, and warriors, always seeking new opportunities beyond its cold shores. As the industrial age reshapes the world, Ariania must decide whether to embrace modernisation fully or hold steadfast to its traditional ways.
Morvindor: The Jewel of the Southern Sands
Geography and Climate
Morvindor lies in the arid southern reaches of Arius, a land of rolling dunes, rocky plateaus, and fertile river valleys. Unlike its northern neighbours, Morvindor endures scorching summers and mild winters, with much of its population concentrated along the coasts and the few major rivers that sustain agriculture. The landscape is dotted with ancient ruins, remnants of past civilisations that once flourished in the region.
Despite its dry climate, Morvindor's coasts are rich in trade, with bustling port cities that serve as key hubs for commerce between Arius and the wider world. The nation is renowned for its olive groves, vineyards, and intricate irrigation systems that make life possible in an otherwise unforgiving environment.
History and Formation
Morvindor traces its origins to the Desert Nomads, a people who mastered survival in the harsh terrain and built thriving trade networks across Arius. As settlements grew, independent city-states formed, each ruled by merchant-princes, warlords, or noble families. For centuries, these city-states waged war over resources, land, and influence, leading to an era of great military and political intrigue.
Unification came through diplomacy and conquest, as a powerful ruling family, known for its cunning statesmanship, brought the warring factions under one banner. Even today, Morvindor retains a deep regionalism, with city-states maintaining a degree of autonomy under the overarching authority of the central government.
Morvindor has a proud military tradition, specialising in mobile desert warfare, ambush tactics, and siegecraft. Its armies favour light cavalry, skilled skirmishers, and adaptable infantry trained to fight in the brutal heat. Defensively, its cities are built with thick walls and labyrinthine streets designed to confuse invaders.
At sea, Morvindor's navy is formidable, with sleek warships designed for speed and manoeuvrability. Though not as dominant as Norvada’s maritime forces, Morvindor controls many of the key trade routes in southern Arius, ensuring its economic influence remains strong.
Government and Society
Morvindor is a republic, governed by a council of elected officials, noble families, and wealthy merchants. Power is shared between the Grand Chancellor, who acts as head of state, and the Senate, which represents the interests of the various city-states. While corruption and political intrigue are common, the system has endured, balancing the ambitions of the elite with the needs of the people.
Culturally, Morvindor is a land of passion, art, and philosophy. Its people take great pride in their architectural marvels, dramatic theatre, and vibrant festivals. The Morvindorians are known for their love of debate and rhetoric, and public discourse plays a crucial role in shaping the nation’s policies. Honour and reputation are deeply valued, and duels, whether with words or blades, are a respected means of settling disputes.
Foreign Relations and Influence
Morvindor maintains strong trade ties with the rest of Arius, acting as a gateway between the continent and the wider world. However, its competitive merchant class often brings it into conflict with other trading powers, particularly Belmara and Norvada.
While generally peaceful, Morvindor is fiercely protective of its independence and interests. It is known for using diplomacy, espionage, and economic pressure as effectively as military might. Though its golden age of conquest has long passed, its influence remains felt across Arius, as its scholars, merchants, and diplomats shape the continent’s affairs in ways both subtle and grand.
As the world moves further into an age of industry and innovation, Morvindor stands at a crossroads, whether to embrace modernisation fully or preserve its ancient traditions while adapting to the new realities of power and progress.
Arterra: The Heart of Arius
Geography and Climate
Arterra lies at the centre of Arius, a land of rolling hills, fertile plains, and sprawling river valleys. It enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters, making it one of the most agriculturally prosperous nations on the continent. The land is rich in natural resources, including coal, iron, and vast forests that fuel its industries. Major rivers crisscross the region, acting as vital trade arteries that connect the different nations of Arius.
Due to its central location, Arterra has long been the crossroads of the continent, where merchants, diplomats, and travellers from Norvada, Belmara, Murannion, Ariania, and Morvindor converge. The nation’s capital, Velthar, is renowned for its grand marketplaces, prestigious universities, and intricate web of political institutions that shape the future of Arius.
History and Formation
Arterra emerged from a long and turbulent history of conflict and diplomacy. Unlike the other nations of Arius, which formed from dominant tribes, Arterra was shaped by centuries of migration, war, and political manoeuvring. It was once a fragmented land, contested by rival clans and foreign invaders seeking control over its strategic position. However, through a series of military campaigns and shrewd alliances, a ruling dynasty—later replaced by a republic—managed to unite the region under a single banner.
Over time, Arterra evolved into the stabilising force of Arius, acting as both mediator and enforcer in continental affairs. Its political institutions and diplomatic networks allowed it to settle disputes and prevent large-scale conflicts between the other nations.
Military and Strategic Role
Arterra maintains a balanced military, designed more for defence and maintaining order rather than aggressive expansion. It fields a well-trained professional army, supported by a highly mobile cavalry and an efficient logistical network. Its fortresses and defensive lines are strategically placed to ensure the security of its borders and key trade routes.
While not a dominant naval power like Norvada or Morvindor, Arterra’s river fleets are crucial in maintaining internal stability and protecting commerce. It also boasts an elite corps of engineers who specialise in fortifications, railways, and infrastructure—ensuring that its military and economic power remain interconnected.
Government and Society
Arterra is a constitutional republic, governed by a representative council composed of elected officials, noble families, and influential trade guilds. The Chancellor, elected by the council, serves as the head of state, guiding national policy and representing Arterra in international matters. Laws and governance are shaped through negotiation and compromise, a reflection of Arterra’s role as the unifying force of the continent.
Culturally, Arterra is a melting pot, where traditions from every Ariusian nation blend into a unique and cosmopolitan identity. Its cities are filled with diverse architecture, cuisine, and customs, making it a hub for innovation and intellectual discourse. The people of Arterra pride themselves on their diplomacy, pragmatism, and adaptability—qualities that have allowed them to maintain their position as the heart of Arius.
Foreign Relations and Influence
Arterra maintains strong diplomatic ties with all of Arius, acting as the primary arbitrator of continental affairs. It is often the site of major political summits and treaty negotiations, ensuring that conflicts between nations do not escalate into full-scale wars. However, this role also makes it the target of intrigue, with rival nations seeking to influence Arterra’s policies through espionage and political manoeuvring.
Though outwardly committed to peace, Arterra is not without ambition. It subtly exerts influence through economic pressure, infrastructure projects, and strategic alliances. Its extensive railway networks, for example, are not just a means of trade but a tool of power, ensuring that Arterra remains indispensable to the rest of Arius.
As the world advances into an era of industrialisation and global expansion, Arterra finds itself at a turning point. Will it continue as the stabilising force of the continent, or will it leverage its position to shape Arius, and the world, according to its own vision?
Major Wars and Conflicts of Arius
Throughout its history, the continent of Arius has been shaped by war, political manoeuvring, and shifting alliances. While the nations of Arius now maintain a relative peace, their past is marked by bitter struggles for power, resources, and influence. Below is a broad outline of some of the key conflicts that defined the continent.
The War of the Six Tribes
Before the nations of Arius existed in their current form, the land was divided among the six dominant tribes: the Seafarers (Norvada), the Lake Dwellers (Belmara), the Plainsfolk (Murannion), the Mountain Clan (Ariania), the Forest People (Morvindor), and the Desert Nomads (Arterra). As populations grew and resources became scarcer, conflicts arose over fertile lands, waterways, and trade routes.
This prolonged period of tribal warfare saw each group develop distinct military and technological advantages: the Seafarers constructed advanced ships, the Plainsfolk mastered horseback warfare, and the Mountain Clan fortified their strongholds. These conflicts ultimately led to the fragmentation and eventual formation of the six modern nations, as powerful leaders consolidated control and established permanent rule.
The War of Unification (Arterra’s Rise)
Unlike the other nations, Arterra did not form from a single dominant tribe but was a patchwork of warring factions and rival city-states. For centuries, it was a battleground, as external powers and internal rulers sought control over its strategic lands.
Eventually, a powerful warlord—or perhaps a coalition of leaders—launched a campaign to unify the region, defeating rival claimants and foreign interlopers. This war was brutal, but its outcome established Arterra as a single entity, allowing it to later become the diplomatic and economic heart of Arius.
The Three Rivers War
A conflict between Murannion and Belmara over control of key river trade routes. As both nations developed and expanded their economies, securing access to these waterways became a major point of contention. Belmara, reliant on trade and agriculture, sought unrestricted access to the rivers, while Murannion, which controlled much of the territory through which the rivers flowed, sought to impose heavy tolls.
The war saw years of skirmishes, naval blockades, and diplomatic manoeuvring. Norvada, fearing a disruption to continental trade, eventually intervened, forcing both sides into a treaty that established a shared economic zone along the rivers. Though the war ended without a decisive military victory, it reshaped the balance of power and led to increased economic interdependence between Murannion and Belmara.
The Stormfront War (Norvada vs. Morvindor)
A conflict born out of economic rivalry and colonial competition. While Norvada dominated the seas with its advanced shipbuilding and powerful navy, Morvindor controlled many key ports and trade hubs across Arius and beyond. As both nations expanded their reach overseas, tensions flared over disputed territories, tariffs, and the control of vital sea lanes.
The war saw fierce naval battles, blockades, and raids along both nations’ coasts. Norvada’s superior navy initially gave it the upper hand, but Morvindor, with its strong fortifications and desert-trained soldiers, proved difficult to conquer on land. After years of stalemate, the war ended in a negotiated settlement, with both sides agreeing to a mutual trade arrangement that allowed them to maintain influence without direct conflict.
The War of the Broken Crown (Murannion vs. Ariania, with Arterra as mediator)
A dynastic struggle in Murannion led to a civil war that soon escalated into a continental crisis. A noble house in Ariania, with distant ties to Murannion’s ruling family, laid claim to the Murannion throne after the sudden death of its monarch. This claim was rejected by Murannion’s nobility, leading to a war that saw Arianian forces invade Murannion, backed by several noble factions.
Arterra, fearing that the war could destabilise all of Arius, intervened as a mediator. After years of brutal fighting, Arterra brokered a peace agreement that saw the Arianian claimant renounce their claim in exchange for territorial and economic concessions. This war reinforced Arterra’s role as the diplomatic centre of Arius and further cemented its influence over continental affairs.
The Sundering War (Ariania vs. Belmara and Morvindor)
Ariania, known for its fierce warriors and heavily fortified mountain strongholds, clashed with Belmara and Morvindor over control of mineral-rich borderlands. While Ariania sought to maintain its dominance over the region’s iron and coal mines, Belmara and Morvindor, both expanding industrial economies, saw these resources as essential to their growth.
The conflict saw prolonged sieges, brutal mountain warfare, and shifting alliances. In the end, neither side could achieve total victory, and an uneasy truce was reached, with resource-sharing agreements and trade deals preventing future conflicts.
The Final Conflict: The War of Tides (Norvada, Belmara, and Murannion vs. Morvindor and Ariania, with Arterra as peacemaker)
The last major war before the current era of peace. Tensions between the nations of Arius escalated when Morvindor and Ariania formed a military alliance, threatening to tip the balance of power. Fearing an economic and military disadvantage, Norvada, Belmara, and Murannion united against them, leading to a war that saw battles on land and sea, as well as the first large-scale use of steam-powered warships and railway-based troop movements.
The war was devastating for all sides, stretching their economies and militaries to the breaking point. Arterra once again stepped in as the mediator, brokering a peace treaty that emphasised mutual cooperation, trade agreements, and non-aggression pacts. The war ended with no clear winner, but it forced the nations of Arius to recognise that continued warfare would only weaken them in the face of a changing world.