S - Meridian

=== Kingdom of Meridian ===
==== Overview ====
The Kingdom of Meridian (European Baroque Era) is located in the northwest of Sethrophos, and is a land of devout faith, divine monarchy, and majestic beauty, fiercely dedicated to its sphinx goddess Argia, the Goddess of Light and Judgment, and opposed to the demonic forces threatening the world. The kingdom encompasses the Borea Peninsula, situated at the northern tip of the continent. Known for its zealous adherence to the religion of Argia, Meridian is often referred to as "The Pinnacle of Vanity" by outsiders. The kingdom is ruled by a monarchy that claims its legitimacy through the divine right of kings. This belief, rooted in the idea that monarchs are appointed by Argia, solidifies the king's absolute authority and ties it closely to the Church of Epaiketa.
==== Religion ====
The dominant religion in Meridian is the Church of Epaiketa, dedicated to Argia. This church, with its grand cathedrals and intricate rituals, is reminiscent of the Catholic Church but imbued with a fantastical flair. The Church's doctrine is deeply intertwined with the concept of divine judgment, known as Epaiketa, and is aggressively enforced throughout the kingdom. The populace is encouraged to follow the Church's teachings fervently. Other religions are seen as heretical and are generally shunned, though outright persecution is rare.
==== Society and Culture ====
Population: Meridian is predominantly populated by humans, but other races such as half-elves, dwarves, and halflings also inhabit the kingdom, often integrating into its human-dominated society. Outsiders are generally only permitted into the kingdom for business purposes, and even then, they face significant scrutiny. Markets and common areas in larger cities often remain inaccessible to them unless they have the protection of the Church. In the capital and larger cities, outsiders must present paperwork to enter and are often met with suspicion unless accompanied by a priest. Smaller towns are more hospitable, following a "live and let live" philosophy while still maintaining religious loyalty. Priests possess a unique cantrip that allows them to identify those dedicated to the religion, breaking all bonds with otherworldly powers. This practice ensures religious purity and loyalty among the followers. Many religious fanatics in Meridian are converts from other continents, including those from Thalassia, Jormungand, and regions afflicted by Abbadon's demons. The kingdom is primarily home to clerics and paladins who serve as the main opposition to Abbadon's demonic forces. These religious warriors are dedicated to maintaining the kingdom's spiritual purity and defending its borders.
The society in Meridian is highly caste-based. Right below the King, the highest caste includes the Clerics who make up the upper nobility and the Church of Argia. The next caste consists of the Solar Exalted, also known as the Knights in White Satin, Paladins who enforce the laws of the Church and maintain the caste system. Below them are the Sunkist, comprising merchants, high artisans, mage-wrights, military officers, and the lower priesthood. The Twilight caste includes common soldiers, laborers, and foreign guests. The lowest caste, the Night caste, includes whores, slaves, criminals, dispossessed individuals, uninvited foreigners, and nonhumans. Castes are generally hereditary, and while moving down is possible, upward mobility is rare.
==== Architecture ====
Cathedrals: Meridian is renowned for its beautiful cathedrals, which stand as symbols of the kingdom's piety and artistic achievement. These structures are marvels of Baroque architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and vast stained glass windows. Despite its religious zeal, Meridian's dedication to beauty and grandeur has earned it the nickname "The Pinnacle of Vanity." The kingdom's cities are adorned with ornate buildings and elaborate public spaces.
=== Current Affairs ===
Opposition to Abbadon: Meridian stands as the strongest opposition to Abbadon's ambitions. The kingdom's clerics and paladins are actively engaged in countering the demonic threats posed by Abbadon's legion.
Internal Dynamics: While the capital remains a bastion of zealotry, there are pockets of free thinkers and smaller communities that advocate for a more inclusive approach to different beliefs and practices.
=== Argiopolis ===
The capital city, named Argiopolis, is a vision of heaven with its white marble and gold structures. The Sacred Heart, where the Solar Exalted live, is a city within a city, with walls of alabaster, gates of pearl, and streets of gold. The lower caste areas, by the docks, look like any other set of docks in the world. Crime is low in Argiopolis due to the fear of the Knights in White Satin, but organized crime is quite high, and some say the corruption reaches the upper echelons.
=== The Hole ===
The Hole is a pit where an object from the stars struck and destroyed a city of Meridian long ago. The Solar Exalted took the fallen object and used it to carve a crate bearing the Scrolls of Argia. The Hole is now used as a disposal site for the executed, the plague-ridden, and waste from the cities. It is also the base of the Murid Clan Pestilens, which has been the cause of several civil wars and is devoted to the Horned Rat in his role as the harbinger of disease and plague.
== Notable Persons ==
Sir Émeric von Lumière: leads the Solar Exalted, driving back the forces of darkness with every swing of his blade. To the people of Meridian, He more than just a paladin; he is a beacon of hope and a living testament to the divine light of Argia.
Cilliah the Judge: is not just a title; it is a testament to The woman's life's work and her unshakable faith in the divine order. To the people of Meridian, she is the embodiment of Argia’s judgment, a living instrument of divine law, and an unbreakable force against the encroaching darkness.