# Intro The people who inhabit the world of Drakkenheim simply call it “the earth” or “the world”. They live on “the continent” that is divided into several nations which people refer to as “the realms”. The largest and most politically influential of these sovereign states are [[Caspia]], [[Elyria]], and [[Westemär]]. Neighbouring each are several petty kingdoms and dozens of city states. # Wars and Conflicts The realms have been shaped by centuries of war, from [[Elyria|Elyrian]] rebellions against ancient sorcerer-kings, to great battles between rival [[Caspia|Caspian]] princes, and most recently, [[the civil war]] that ravaged [[Westemär]]. By law and custom, none with arcane spellcasting powers may hold a noble title within the realms. Instead, the noble houses prize the martial arts. Many fighting traditions have developed: armoured phalanxes, archery, fencing, berserking, and diverse unarmed combat techniques. Duels and trial by combat are a particularly favoured means to settle disputes amongst the nobility with minimal bloodshed. The realms of [[Caspia]], [[Elyria]], and [[Westemär]] have each developed their own distinctive styles and practices for such contests. # Travel and Trade Commerce, rather than conflict, defines everyday life for common folk in the realms. Merchant caravels and ships frequently carry cargo across the [[Diamond Sea]] from the [[Caspia|Caspian]] port of [[Jackson’s Keep]] or the independent city-state of [[Liberio]]. Other vessels depart from the ports of [[Drannsmund]] in [[Westemär]] and [[Angel’s Landing]] in [[Elyria]], and sail the [[Middle Ocean]] to the far west. Trade caravans from [[Geldstadt]] travel across the [[Twin Vales]] to distant lands beyond [[the steppes]]. Magical goods and services are bought and sold throughout the continent, but only amongst the wealthy and powerful. High-ranking nobles outfit their favoured knights with magical arms and armour, and rich merchants buy spells and wondrous items to safeguard their valuable mundane wares. The manufacture and sale of arcane commodities is controlled by the Mage Guild, a branch of the [[Amethyst Academy]]. Under strict [[Edicts of Lumen|edicts]] recognized across the realms, any mage or trader dealing in magic pays an annual fee to the [[Amethyst Academy|Mage Guild]], and must follow the prices set by the guild. A few are bold enough to skirt these requirements. As a result, smugglers, hired muscle, and rogues can make their fortune in the illicit trade of enchanted gear and forbidden magic items. This underground black market has only expanded since [[delerium]] has become such a valuable and sought-after export. # Free Lands Though the realms boast mighty armies and legal customs, these have little authority outside cities and settled farmlands. Not far off the major trade roads and rivers, the wilderness remains a place ruled by the laws of nature, not the laws of mortals. The dark forest of [[Achtungwald]], the wet bogs of the [[Elfmire]], the massive mountains that separate the realms, the northern tundras, and the arid hills of [[Elyria]] are dangerous lands, where dragons, trolls, giants, and monsters keep their lairs. However, these wild places are also home to many people who do not reside under the control of the realms. Living in small tribes, they keep their old ways and old faiths, led by stout-hearted warriors and druids who embrace the fury of the elements. # The Wider World The continent meets the vast [[Middle Ocean]] along its western coast. Across this body of water is a distant continent. While bold and well-travelled merchants often make the voyage, few folk in the realms know anything of those antique lands. East of [[Westemär]] are the [[Twin Vales]], nestled between great mountain ranges. Beyond these are expansive steppelands and vast deserts that lead to parts unknown. Off the [[Crystal Coast]], to the north, is the island of [[Skye]], further beyond is the North Pole. South of [[Caspia]] is the [[Diamond Sea]]; across are realms that often trade with [[Caspia]] and [[Elyria]]. # Map ![[World Map.png]]