The Free Cities

The Free Cities occupy the middle and southeast portion of the continent. Once Thorne territory, the Free Cities fought against the monarchs and successfully claimed their own land, where they existed as independent governments until outside threats made it beneficial for them to band together under the rule of Cadens and share their economic, scientific, and militaristic powers with one another. Most of the Free Cities exist on hilly terrain, with a climate that is hot in summer and mild in winter. Of all the nations, the Free Cities have the least cohesive culture and all sorts of people are welcomed into their ranks.

Some magic is practiced in the Free Cities, especially by recent immigrants from other nations, but they are known more than anything for their military and scientific advancements. They have the largest military in Abraxas, and have access to some rudimentary machinery that strengthens both their military and their agricultural capabilities.

Everyone in the government is an elected official, and an election must be held at least once every five years. If an elected leader receives widespread disapproval, it is in their best interest to call an election lest someone find another way to vacate their position. They are led by a Prime Minister, a title that has been held for the last fifteen years by former military general Marlo Reiner. She has more power than she lets on - a little too much of it, perhaps - but is overwhelmingly popular amongst the citizens of the Free Cities for her continued ability to stand up to both Thorne and Solvunn. As of the present time period, she has led the Free Cities to the point where Thorne is genuinely threatened by the possibility of losing their claim to being the most powerful nation in Abraxas.

The rapidly booming population is located all over the nation, but tends to be concentrated in and around:

> **Cadens**, the capitol, which has the ultimate authority over the Free Cities but generally lets them govern as they please. Cadens is a major site of military power and scientific innovation, and offers the easiest access to the Singularity out of any other settled location in Abraxas. To the north of Cadens is the only desert on the continent, in which they have several military outposts. An overall well-rounded city in terms of education, recreation, and economy, Cadens is the place to be if you're looking for a fresh start.
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> **Aquila** is the world's fastest-growing economy and is currently the only city in Abraxas that welcomes members of all nations to stay temporarily and buy or sell goods at the local market. Many successful businesses get their start in Aquila, and particularly successful individuals often quietly defect from their home nations in order to stay there. The scenery in Aquila is also considered some of the most beautiful, with both the mountains and beaches of Andromeda Bay nearby.
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> The city of **Libertas** is famous for its lax social norms and sense of individualism. As long as you're not hurting anyone else, you can do whatever you want. Gambling, drugs, and subversive art all thrive. Many citizens of the Free Cities go to Libertas for vacation, and outcasts from other nations will find a home for themselves here. Both Thorne and Solvunn have reportedly wished to wipe Libertas off the map for the frequent mockery of their leaders and their traditions the local arts scene produces.
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> The port city of **Fomalhaut** has fallen into grave misfortune over the last few decades. Although technically still part of the Free Cities, citizens of Fomalhaut are prevented from travelling freely throughout the continent by military outposts and patrol ships. This city is the site of a contained outbreak of Heartwood Syndrome, a rare disease that causes complete loss of magical potential in most and rapid and eventually fatal bone growth in an unlucky few.
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Anyone may join the Free Cities at any time, and recent immigrants are looked upon with the same regard as long-time citizens. Many people celebrate the day of their citizenship year after year, similar to a birthday celebration.