The Blessed Land of Aeternia

### Summary

Aeternia is a land-locked nation situated almost directly to the west of Romume, and many of its eastern borders end a few miles from the desert sands which mark the terrain of Epimethea. Its southern border reaches far down to almost touch the Southern Peaks, and its western border extends a few miles towards the ancestral lands of the Dwarven Kingdom. It has existed for several millennia, with historians placing its creation likely several centuries before even Dauntina's inception. Aeternia represents a land where ancient history and tradition meld seamlessly with new innovation and people. Guarded by its ever-present Aeternian Legion, an elite force of heavy infantry, the nation stands as a bulwark against the chaos rife throughout much of Southern Alancria.

### Geographical Features

The land itself is an anomaly: Split into two main categories, known as "Inner Aeternia" and "Outer Aeternia", these two sections of the nation are delineated a large, fast-moving river known as the Ariun Amisgal. This river is sourced from high in the icy peaks of the Mandir mountain range, the cluster of mountains which form much of the nation's northern border. These peaks reach incredible height, stretching far above the cloud cover, yet the range itself is fairly small, not covering much more than a few hundred square miles.

This river completely circles Inner Aeternia, forming a circuit which prevents crossing into the realm except via one single bridge, situated on the southernmost point of the nation. This bridge, built of white, marble-like stone which radiates with interesting psionic and magical energy, gracefully arcs from one end of the river to the other, allowing passage to Inner Aeternia.

Inner Aeternia presents a complete and radical shift in geographical feature and normalcy from the rest of the continent. Somehow blessed with incredible fertility with a powerful enchantment laid down millennia in the past, the blessing has converted what was once a savanna much the same as the rest of the land to the south, east, and west into a prosperous, green, tranquil grasslands. These lands, known for their miraculous ability to grow almost any crop at most points throughout the year, experience very little in the way of drought, famine, intense heat, or bitter cold. Much of the normal weather patterns which affect the rest of the continent are blunted within the bounds of the enchantment - which seems tied to the river itself - and instead display warm sunlight for a significant portion of the year.

Outer Aeternia, by stark contrast, is much like the rest of the lands which surround the nation. A temperate savanna which harbors a few low trees and mostly the brown-green shrubs and small grasses which dominate a large portion of southern Alancria, it stretches for miles from the border formed by the river. Outer Aeternia falls prey to the normal patterns of the weather which rampage across southern Alancria, and is prone to frequent dust storms, tornadoes, and even sandstorms which blow across from the desert not too far to the west.

### Demographics

Inner Aeternia is a place of prosperity and bounty, coveted greatly by many other forces on the continent. There exist many such groups - the Undead Plague, Hextorians, Sybarites, (previously) the Oros Combine, and more - that would be thrilled to witness Aeternia's demise, as throughout the rest of the continent it is widely regarded as a place of unnatural safety and security. At Aeternia's inception, Outer Aeternia was but a distant dream to the weary warriors who called Inner Aeternia home. To extend past the borders of the Ariun Amisgal meant death, and fighting to hold its banks was a daily occurrence, as each day more and more enemies threw themselves upon the white stone fortifications stretching its length.

This, in turn, gave rise to a peculiar culture of isolationism and unity. Needless to say, the Legion of Aeternia was born here - a group of men and women, dedicated fighters all, who bound themselves by blood in order to fight back against the tides of darkness which crashed against their fledgling nation. As Aeternia closed itself off from the rest of the continent, content to grow more and more powerful from within its borders, its people became rooted deeply in tradition which had existed since the beginning of the nation.

The people of Inner Aeternia respect tradition and culture which has existed for millennia, and their sense of duty and loyalty towards their homeland is legendary. "Loyal as a legionnaire" is an expression oft-used, both within the nation's borders as well as abroad, for the staggering love of their nation which those living inside the bounds of the river display is, at times, baffling in its strength. These people are the sons and daughters of those who first shed blood for their homeland, and the passed-down dedication to Aeternia remains as powerful as ever.

Almost singularly, those living in Inner Aeternia are either current, former, or in-training legionnaires. The military is seen not only as an obligation, but a much-celebrated tradition and honor. To serve in the Aeternian Legion is the dream of many living in villages and towns across the fertile grasslands, and its presence is everywhere in return. Legionnaires are not feared members of an all-powerful militia; rather, they are vaunted heroes, defending the realm against all manner of foe, and it is their stalwart shield which keeps the people safe at night.

Those who are not tied in some way to the Legion are rare, but even so, their roots in the tradition and culture of ancient Aeternia are no less powerful; many master craftsmen and artisans who have not served instead find work in many of Aeternia's smithies, turning out the high-quality metals for which Aeternia is famed. In other cases, those tending farms or fields sell much of their crop to the Legion for a reduced price, often in return prompting the Legion to send a few of its soldiers to aid the tilling or planting during crucial seasons. The most defining characteristic of Inner Aeternia is that to these men and women, there is no difference between "the Legion" and "the people".

The people of Outer Aeternia, by contrast, are as different as the land upon which they make their homes - rugged, rough, unrefined people, frequently refugees from other portions of Alancria beset by war and famine, seeking the safety of the famous nation of Aeternia. These people are gruff, hardy, and entirely at odds with the men and women making their lives within Inner Aeternia. They see those within the safety of the river as living privileged, blessed lives without care or worry, and this leads to frequent clashes between the militia which protects Outer Aeternia, and the sacred Aeternian Legion, present mostly within the bounds of the Ariun Amisgal river.

Where the people of Inner Aeternia have kept their traditions and culture intact throughout thousands of years of war, the sieges laid against the land only serving to more tightly bind the people to their fellows, Outer Aeternia's populace has developed a blend of histories, beliefs, religions, and traditions from all across Alancria. They make their homes in small villages, towns, and tent cities, frequently impermanent dwellings which are easily destroyed and rebuilt elsewhere, aiding in their drifter-like nature. The people of Outer Aeternia still live closely with one another; their status as refugees and their terror at the violence which impacts much of the rest of the continent has created an alliance of desperation, and the militias and small military organizations which arose within the camps and towns serve to protect and defend the people where the Legion could not, especially as it began to suffer more and more striking losses in recent wars against the Oros Combine and their captive Epimetheans.

For the people of Outer Aeternia, to live within the bounds of the Ariun Amisgal is a great honor, and it is something shared in common between both peoples to see naught but the highest respect for the members of the Aeternian Legion. Though the militias will clash with the Legion now and again, blood is rarely drawn, as the fighting is frequently simply backstreet brawls and nonlethal wrestling matches. Both groups reserve a healthy dose of admiration for each other, and though their viewpoints differ, all serve the nation of Aeternia as a whole. Because of this high degree of respect and admiration, many parents of refugee children send their sons and daughters to Inner Aeternia with the hopes of gaining them schooling, residence, and - though difficult - admission to the Legion. For hopeful parents to travel to Aeternia simply that they may chance their offspring with the Aeternian Legion is not uncommon, as the education of a legionnaire is said to be excellent when compared with the militaries across the continent. In addition, the living benefits of a legionnaire far outweigh any granted to normal residents, as - to the Aeternian populace - to serve is the highest honor.

### Ancient History

Aeternian history is punctuated with wars, great battles, and sacrifices for the good of its people. A long, bloody crusade to survive, it lends credence to the ferocity with which its warriors fight today.

All human life began in tribes within the massive Dreadlands, when Alancria and Belgia were united, with the vast majority of these tribes having devoted themselves to various gods or other religious icons. These tribes clashed with alarming frequency, as all battled for dominance across the sands of their shared home. One particularly vicious war between the gods and their followers was claimed to occur between a deity known as Fides, and a being known as Axus. Of this being, there are precious few records, as many of them were destroyed during the war it took part in with Fides. The surviving records of Axus claim that the being was far more powerful than many of the other deities with which it frequently warred, and its vast strength, imparted as well to many of its followers, was what first defeated Fides. No records detailing anything of Axus beyond its name and its legendary power survived, and the being itself is currently believed lost to time, as its influence faded from the world shortly after its war with Fides.

Fides was known at the time as the god of loyalty, the bonds between men. These bonds were seen as sacred by its followers, and they frequently lauded their kinship and ties to each other. A bond between followers was a serious affair, seen as persisting not only for life, but also into the afterlife. In the afterlife, the belief was that after an Aeternian died, their bonds to their fellows would form lines, stretching out into a form of webbing - a net, built to catch them and stop them from falling forever through the Maw of Anarchy. The Maw of Anarchy was the followers' vision of their personal hell, where every bond they formed was broken, every connection shattered, and they were left weeping and alone, with nothing to fight for but their own lives, forever unable to even communicate with another living being.

Fides itself is remembered as having taken the form of a bird of prey, flying high above the heads of its followers, its form spiritual and ghostly. It would swoop down into battle with talons, and from its beak spewed soulfire, an immolation that ripped asunder the very existence of its enemies. Its wing beats were said to be heard throughout the land of its tribe, and its likeness was carved into every doorway, as well as featuring prominently in early architecture of the tribe.

As other tribes of humanity left the Dreadlands, Fides was one of those who stayed, watching over one of the tribes as the rest became more organized, their cultures more distinct, and their warriors more proud. These remaining human tribes formed what came to be known as Epimethea, and the tribe of Fides, the Nusar tribe, became just another of the roving bands of warriors throughout the Dreadlands. The war with Axus and its followers, however, continued.

From outside the Dreadlands, the forces of Axus poured in, striking almost directly at the followers of Fides. For generations these two and their followers clashed, but while the power of Fides was derived almost directly from its followers, Axus's power was indescribable, and its origins unknown. Far the greater of the two, Axus smote Fides, and in response the wounded deity rent the very earth asunder, splitting the Pangaea-like supercontinent in two. It was these two halves that became Alancria and Belgia, and many of Axus's followers remained within the half of the Dreadlands left on the more western continent, where Fides's followers stayed within the desert in Alancria. Of the half of the Dreadlands in Belgia, it is speculated in ancient history texts that any who lived there have now perished, leaving nothing but a barren wasteland of ruins and sand-buried settlements.

As years passed, Fides commanded its followers to build themselves - and it, by extension - a safe haven against Axus, should the darkness ever threaten them again. The tribe left Epimethea, traveling to the east until it left the desert entirely, and emerged into the savanna of what is now present-day Aeternia. Through a ritual sacrifice of a significant portion of the tribe, blood paved the way for the incredibly powerful enchantments and blessings upon the land, tied to the creation and flow of the river which began to pour from the mountains high above. The river chewed through the land, eating away at the soil until it had firmly entrenched itself, sinking into the eastern sea miles away. In addition, a single white stone bridge - built of deep crystal changed during the ritual into a pure, white, stone-like substance resembling marble - stretched across the river at a single point on its southernmost border.

Many ancient Aeternian tales tell of the ritual which birthed their nation, and those whose lives were spent in its inception are regarded as the truest heroes which ever walked the land. But for those people left behind, despite the blessings of their deity, survival was a desperate factor. Far reduced in strength and number, the ex-Epimethean tribe began to forge its identity anew, keeping with its customs from its older days. Factored heavily into the culture of the fledgling Aeternians was not simply their religious beliefs in their deity, but also their Epimethean influence, as many remembered the endless sands which they slogged through during years prior.

Aeternia continued in its initial stages relatively untouched, though surrounding groups took notice of the ritual and its result, and before long many groups staged in Alancria proper began to assault the young nation, seeking to wrest away its fertile lands from the few inhabitants it possessed. The Aeternians fought back relentlessly, however, and the skill in war of an Epimethean tribe is difficult to match. Before long, the Aeternian population had regrown to something resembling its prior number, and although still small, the communities the group formed were rooted deep into their new home, soon forgetting the cataclysm and their days in the sands, resigning all this to their history books but for the traditions and customs they kept.

In the year (some year), a significant number of Belgian refugees landed on the westernmost-point of Alancria, just north of the Dreadlands. Fleeing to escape the constant uprisings and unrest which heralded the takeover of Belgia by Dauntinian ex-patriots, they moved inland, reaching Aeternia almost by chance. When the former Belgians arrived at the bridge to Aeternia, they were met by the tribe-like people living within its borders. They were welcomed in with open arms as one of the tribes who'd left the desert before them, as the people of Aeternia were excited to add the Belgians' strength to their own.

This represented Aeternia's first cultural revolution. Heavily influenced by the odd culture of the Belgians, they incorporated the lifestyle and militaristic affairs of the newly-joined people, and the nation forged as a result became far more powerful than before. At Fides' urging, the ex-Belgians and Aeternians merged together, as the Belgians forgot their homeland, burning their boats behind them, and the Aeternians joined them in forging a new future.

The few centuries that followed this cultural shift and bolstering of Aeternia's people were known as the Dormitationem, where the war machine that was the militaristic Aeternia kept relatively quiet, choosing to look inward and focus on its own nation rather than towards other realms. Though Aeternia has always focused intently on itself in its own manner, this period in its history represents a point where its interest in other realms declined to almost nonexistence. The Blessed Land underwent a historic revitalization, driven by its newly-assimilated Belgian people and its desire to fully utilize its fairly untouched territory. Towns sprung up across the nation, small cities dotted the land, and the work on Aeternia's Grand Keep, the massive fortress which protectively surrounds its capital city Sieglinde as a mother does her child, began in earnest. Aeternia began to tap into the massive deposits of rare minerals beneath its surface, and smithies were commonplace within just a century and a half.

As Aeternia's industrial boom continued, it also focused heavily on agriculture, something relatively unknown to the former Epimethean tribe. The ex-Belgian people proved heavily influential in aiding the ex-Epimetheans in tilling and cultivating the land, something they'd had relatively small exposure to during their prior years in the sands. Aeternia had always been a self-sustaining nation due to the sheer prosperity of the land, its massive size, and the comparatively small number of people dotting its surface, but with the aid of the ex-Belgians, the Aeternians as a whole began experiencing massive growth in population, aided by the sheer tonnes of food which they found themselves capable of growing. Farming swiftly became a very profitable occupation, serving solely to accelerate the sudden and rapid expansion which the Aeternians embraced.

As time progressed, fortifications and fortresses began to dot Aeternia's territory, constructed eagerly by the master ex-Belgian craftsmen, while the ex-Epimethean people learned swiftly from their foreign brethren. The creation of such monoliths of stone initially baffled the more nomadic peoples, but they soon learned the awesome, subtle power of the structures as more and more attackers began to pour into the nation, crossing the bridge and spreading out into the fertile valleys, held back only by the determined defenders crouched behind the parapets and crenelations of the fortifications. After another half a century, the land's people had finally united, disregarding their initial culture to form a common, lasting bond, and became one under the title of Aeternian. Simultaneously, they finally reached and fortified the bridge - the only passage across the Ariun Amisgal river into their lands - and thereby firmly cemented their initial borders, which would last for generations. In stone, metal, and blood, the Blessed Land of Aeternia was complete.

#### The Vessel of Fides

After the cracking of the world by Fides in its desperate attempt to escape the ravaging Axus and its forces, the young god made another titular decision - to embed itself within a chosen one of its followers, that it might take a more personal role in handling matters on the Material Plane, where its people made their lives. Thus began one of the strangest and most significant events in history where historians are concerned with the gods - that is, one of the gods chose to inhabit almost fully the body of one of its followers. The line of succession was then drawn down through blood, with each new heir to the power of the god being blessed in a ritual rite which the Aeternians faithfully observed for millennia to come.

As of recent events, Falcon Cultain is the only surviving vessel of Fides, after the passing of his elder brother, Horatio Cultain. The two were jointly blessed, the first time two heirs had ever simultaneously existed; however, Horatio perished almost a decade ago, leaving his younger brother as the living remnant of the winged deity.

### Culture

Aeternian culture is a curious blend of old and new, heavily influenced by both the ancient roots of its people, and its military - the Aeternian Legion. Its beliefs and traditions are drawn from two main categories, derived from its two main initial peoples - the native ex-Epimethean Nusar tribe, and the ex-Belgian people who crossed the western ocean from their own land to arrive in Aeternia almost a century after its creation. Aeternians as a whole are more Epimethean in custom and culture when inside their homes or personal spaces, and influenced more greatly by Belgian tradition in their military, government, and style of construction.

#### Belgian Influence

The influence of the ex-Belgian people can be seen most easily in the more militaristic and industrial aspects of Aeternia. From the way its military fights, to the heavy emphasis on stonework and smithing, to the massive fortresses which cover the land, it is clear that the impact of the ex-Belgians is wholly pervasive.

The Belgian legion became the primary influence for the now-Aeternian Legion, keeping many of the same traditions, customs, armaments, and fighting style from past centuries. Known for their iconic gladius, scutum, and lorica - the standard outfit of a legionnaire - as well as their marching formations and tightly-controlled battle lines, the Legion's standing as a historically powerful force is well-founded. Its emphasis on the teamwork and brotherhood between its members was well-accepted by the native Aeternian people, and they took to the more organized style of battle with eager ferocity, surprising many of their new-found Belgian brethren.

The Legion's influence throughout the rest of the nation is everywhere: schools raise Aeternian children as citizens first, and legionnaires second; military service is both mandatory and highly celebrated; the greatest benefits the nation can offer go to its most distinguished warriors. The saying that the Legion is the heart of Aeternia is not incorrect.

The terminology of the legion also wholly pervades the rest of the land as well. To call someone a "shieldmate" is to describe them as a trusted friend and ally, whereas to decry them as "bronze" or "gold" claims they are weak, yielding, or soft compared to the steel of the Legion. This lends additional meaning to the phrase "gold-plated" for Aeternians, who frequently disdain its use, as it does not match the rest of the continent's more colloquial expectation.

Legionnaires see each other as brothers, part of a large fraternity where one's distance from the others matters little. As long as one happens to be a current or former legionnaire, one gains a massive amount of respect with other members. Legionnaires treat each other as anything from fond friends to close brothers, but this does not discount the occasional brawling between legionnaires; fights are not only common, but respected ways to settle disputes between warriors, and are occasionally started simply for enjoyment. Legionnaires drunkenly brawling in the streets only to be rounded up by zealous decurions or centurions is a common enough sight, and the shouting of "Futue te ipsum!" followed by the wrestling of bodies is not unheard of. However, the next day such slights are generally forgotten, as legionnaires constantly remember - and are reminded of - the importance of their place within the whole that is the Legion.

Women who serve within the Legion, generally in specific or support roles, are also the subject of massive respect. Female legionnaires are rare, but women brave and powerful enough to join the ranks of the mostly-male regular Legion are almost universally, by contrast, incredibly ferocious and skilled. This sheer tenacity hearkens back to the native Aeternians' time as an Epimethean tribe, as the warriors of many tribes were generally split roughly evenly between the genders. Females within the Legion are generally revered by love-struck legionnaires, and finding a wife within the Legion is a subject of great respect and admiration for many males who serve.

Being a member of the Legion is a shared expectation and joy of Aeternian culture, and most frequently, discussion revolves around how one's own skill - or that of one's relatives - relates to the Legion, in most any discipline. An Aeternian saying "Omnibus Dare Potest Obsequium", translated to "All Can Give Service", is inscribed above many schools, shops, and important buildings within the nation's cities and towns, displaying the common belief that almost any skill can be useful to the Legion.

The culture and pervasiveness of the Legion also affects the far lower-than-average rates of crime throughout the nation. Due to the Legion's shared role as both army and policing force, coupled with its ever-present nature, to attempt any crime is difficult, almost impossible. Additionally, since so much of the nation itself is tied to the Legion either personally or through direct family, it is seen as disrespectful towards one's own blood ties to do so.

A great deal of Belgian influence can be seen as well throughout the government of Aeternia. Its leadership is primarily military-based, consisting of a mildly-totalitarian stratocracy. This brand of governance focuses on military leadership and expertise, prizing these qualities along with intelligence and charisma for those destined to lead the nation. Ruled by a group of high-ranking current or retired officers, it meshes perfectly with the Legion mentality which dominates the people of Aeternia.

The culture of the Legion, however, while powerfully ingrained in Aeternian society thanks to the unprecedented acceptance by the native Aeternian people, does not account entirely for the strange customs and ways of its folk.

#### Ex-Epimethean Influence

The Epimethean influence throughout modern Aeternian culture is the far more subtle of the two. Though much of modern Aeternian lifestyle is governed by subservience and respect for the Legion, a surprising amount of its more religious and home-styled cultural aspects are retained from its far earlier days roaming the sands, or its people's initial days within their new home.

Though the Epimethean people were nomadic, and the Nusar tribe was no exception, once they felt safe enough to construct permanent residences, they began to quickly fill these dwellings with all the trappings and keepsakes which they previously carried with themselves across the land. Old memoirs of their past filled their homes with seemingly random importance and order, displayed almost as reminders to the people themselves of their histories. To this day, an Aeternian's home is indicative of their past to a fairly accurate degree. Though they felt their nomadic past call to them frequently, the Aeternian people knew through the gentle pressure of their deity that they had finally found a home to themselves, and took to it fervently. With the same vigor they previously wandered the realm of Alancria, the ex-Epimethean people poured their souls into their homes, and these dwellings became the mainstay of Aeternian culture, surrounded by a great deal of respect and ritual.

An Aeternian's home is much like their inner self; though much of their homes' constructions are outwardly bleak, grey, and dull - the impregnable stone fortifications that the Legion favors for their defensiveness and long-lasting nature - once inside, a paradigm shift occurs. Though in recent times the simple stone homes have given way to more grandiose or artistic designs, the base foundations and most commonly shared aspects between all Aeternian structures - standards mandated by the Legion itself - ensure that there is never too much deviance from a building which could, at any time, be utilized by zealous defenders against an invading force.

Inside an Aeternian home, one can most frequently find a staggering collection of artistic pieces, instruments, or aspects of other hobbies which the Aeternian people pursue outside their time within the Legion, or their standard occupations. Color is prized, with vibrant rugs, tapestries and paintings covering much of the floor and walls throughout the home. Silk is a prized commodity within Aeternia due to its relative difficulty to obtain, thanks to its far-flung origins with respect to the nation; however, it is nonetheless used wherever it can be within a home as a display of taste - or occasionally wealth. Lighting is another factor which Aeternians dote on, citing a "commonality" with flame that other peoples might view as mildly disturbing. Fires kept the tribe warm during bitingly cold nights on the desert or plains, and now burn almost eternally within most structures. Hearths are kept smoldering within many Aeternian homes even on warmer days, more as a custom than for comfort, and candles or lamps rather than more modern means still continue to this day to light Aeternian settlements. Originally, the threat of fire destroying property was no issue for the originally tribal native Aeternians, but once they began to construct permanent residences, the issue was carefully negated using the solid stone construction favored by the Legion.

Another factor which presents itself with purposeful clarity within Aeternian homes is the use of various centerpieces for hearths and tables. Any shared, common space - whether it be a common room, a kitchen, dining room, den, and especially a training area will inevitably be subject to decoration with some form of plaque, medal, weapon, shield, piece of armor, tattered scrap of cloak, old drawing, or some other odd artifact of an Aeternian's past. With their focus on powerful bonds towards outside forces, it is no surprise that Aeternians also hold tangible bonds to their past, tying many of their fondest memories towards old, musty books or ancient training swords. These centerpieces purposefully display the most defining characteristics and important values of the home's owner, and one can learn a great deal simply by walking through each room, studying such pieces.

Though infrequent, visitors from the outside to an Aeternian settlement are common enough. Aeternians are known for their initial and vigorous mistrust, but once this is overcome, their hospitality is legendary, and they frequently go to great lengths in order to make a guest feel comfortable. The native Aeternian peoples' heritage as Epimethean plays a large part in their initial dislike of outsiders; in a tribal setting, the majority of the Epimethean groups were tightly-knit bands, and outsiders were either disdained or openly slaughtered. Though the Nasur tribe was not the most aggressive, they were certainly aloof or outright hostile towards those who deliberately sought them out. However, once a person gains the acceptance and trust of a tribe and is accepted as an ally, they are defended with similar ferocity as any other member.

The Epimethean customs also show themselves in small ways or rituals which accentuate Aeternian behavior. It is customary to remove one's shoes before entering an Aeternian home, as homes - reflections of one's self - are kept as neat and tidy as possible, and tracking dirt, dust, or sand is considered a grave error. Before leaving home, Aeternians almost universally pray for their safe return and that of their family, as to leave home is seen as a serious undertaking, even if one simply intends to visit the nearby shop. To an Aeternian, to leave home is to risk the chance that one might never witness it again, for disaster may strike at any time. Conversely, when entering a home, it is customary to ask the blessing of the homeowner. An invitation to an Aeternian home, while rare, is fervent, and seen as a highly-honored extension of trust. Epimethean-rooted phrases also dominate communication and blessings inside the home, with such phrases as "dalil alrriah lak" ("the wind guide you"), and "aleayid ealaa ujnihat" ("return on wings").

### Government

The governmental style of Aeternia can best be described as a mildly totalitarian stratocracy, born of a fusion of the styles of rule and government from its two initial Belgian and Epimethean halves. During its more ancient history, the native Aeternian, ex-Epimethean tribe conducted its governance much the same as any other tribe - through a council of elders. These appointed elders were the wisest and most powerful members of the tribe, venerated for both their skill in battle, and their knowledge of the world. When one fell in battle or in old age, another was appointed by the tribe as a whole, though the decision rested mostly with the remainder of the council. This influence can be seen in the stratocracy, in which Aeternia is ruled via a group of its most powerful military leaders and generals. As the Legion of Aeternia represents its beating heart, the Legion is also Aeternia's governing body, with most official offices filled by military representatives or even current military officers.

The Belgian influence can be seen in the lessened totalitarianism which oversees the nation, as well as the amount of power given to the Imperator of the Legion. Belgia's governmental style evolved rather quickly after the tribe exited the Dreadlands and gave up their Epimethean legacy; keen to forget their days in the sand and sun, they instead spread to every other corner of their newly-halved continent, and their culture - and government - underwent a radical shift. The Belgians believed that the world was rent asunder for their disobedience and hatred towards their fellow man, and it was their first Emperor - Emperor Claudio Flavius - who rallied their people into something resembling a unified whole, even across the entirety of the massive continent that is modern-day Belgia.

During this time, Belgia's government shifted from the loose, barely-organized, tribal mess seen previously to a more focused autocratic, empirical, totalitarian dictatorship. The Emperor's word became absolute, and to defy it meant death. The Emperor appointed military figures to offices throughout the land, generally tasking them with ruling areas of the gigantic nation. The Emperor himself also kept an inner council of the most powerful men and women in Belgia, though their power outside the realm of the palace lay mostly in suggestion rather than rule, with most of their capability resting in attempting to influence the all-powerful Emperor. Though this brought unprecedented prosperity and unity to the Belgian people, the style of government which they enact even in present day is considered outdated and extreme by many historians.

The influence of this government can be seen in the lessened totalitarianism which effects the Aeternian government and its people. The ex-Epimethean people, still too free-spirited for a fully totalitarian government, agreed to many of the tenets and laws which the Belgians proposed, as they were no strangers to being ruled by absolute authority. To defy the council of Elders in their previous era meant one's shame, exile, or death, and the same carries even to present-day Aeternia. The practice of appointing military officers to positions within the government was also highly prized by the Belgians, and they readily accepted when the ex-Epimethean people initially proposed the idea.

In present day, Aeternia is ruled primarily by a council of the Legion's Praetors, headed by their Imperator. Majors within the Aeternian Legion also hold a significant amount of governmental power, but their duties are more primarily military, leaving more of the daily rule to others within the Legion.

Due to recent losses, the nation of Aeternia is currently re-structuring its government, attempting to replace several fallen Majors, as well as a deceased Praetor. One of the discussed changes to the government has already been implemented - that the position of Spymaster has been decoupled from the duty of a Praetor, where it was previously held by Farden Quinlan, Aeternia's deceased Fifth Praetor. This change allows for the next Spymaster to be any Aeternian, removing the restriction that the position be held by a Praetor.

### Military

The Aeternian Legion, hailing from the Blessed Land of Aeternia: a legend clad in steel, a terror wreathed in spells. The Legion is the product of millennia of tradition, training, and innovation on the earliest legionnaire-based fighting style originating in Belgia. Brought over by the Belgian refugees during the flight from their homeland, the style of combat and mentality of the military quickly caught on with the eager ex-Epimetheans. Thus embraced by both sides, the Aeternian Legion firmly cemented its place in history for all time yet to come.

The Legion is divided into many sections and specialized units, but is primarily comprised of heavily armed and armored infantry, an elite fighting force on foot. The Legion's infantry, when properly joined together, is perhaps the most ruthlessly efficient and utterly terrifying force on the continent bar none. Though the recent defeats at the hands of the Oros Combine showed a deadly lack of foresight and preparation in certain areas, the Legion nonetheless stood the test of time after its counter-invasion of Romume, emerging victorious.

The only other forces on the continent which could possibly rival the Legion in terms of sheer combat capability are the Guardians of the Dauntinian Office, an elite group of shock troops tasked with shielding higher-ranking military and government officials within the state, and the Epimethean tribes themselves. Though the Aeternian Legion is larger than any two Epimethean tribes joined together, the tribes have not distanced themselves from that admirable - and legendary - Epimethean ferocity with which they do battle. Therefore, if the Epimethean tribes banded together, Aeternia would be a relatively easy conquest.

Then again, historians consider it worth noting - and rather concerning - that if the Epimethean tribes actually put aside their squabbles as old as humanity itself and joined forces, *anything* would be an easy conquest for the united Epimethea.

The Aeternian Legion, however, prevails as a testament to the effectiveness of tight coordination and strict discipline within its ranks. Legionnaires are trained daily, and spend much of their time pursuing greater combat strength and skill, even in their spare time. The dream of many young Aeternians is to attain enough strength to challenge the Praetors, not for rule or power, but for prestige and recognition. In addition, another large motivation for many legionnaires is the "peculiar Aeternian madness" that its people share - many legionnaires dream of following in the footsteps of their current Imperator, who seeks in all things to become "powerful enough to protect everyone". Much of the people of Aeternia recognize the impossibility of the dream, and yet they pursue it regardless, striving for the impossible in order to one day attain it.

#### Legion Command Structure and Divisions

Regular Legionnaires comprise roughly 60% of the overall military, with the other 40% being divided into special force groups. These special force groups are the only Aeternian units which operate independently from the regular shield-bearing legionnaires which Aeternia generally fields, and are almost universally dangerous and unpredictable. The same rank structure governs both groups, and a great deal of training is invested in the two working in tandem.

The Legion's command structure is as follows:

#### Non-Commissioned Ranks

Munifex (Private): Also referred to simply as "Legionnaire", these are the lowest-ranking members of the Aeternian Legion. Green and untested but for the rigorous training which they undergo, they wait on the command of the higher-ranking members of the Legion for direction.

Decanus (Corporal): The second-lowest rank in the Legion, Decani are typically given command of small units of a half-dozen legionnaires. Individual units are generally the smallest division of troops in the Legion, and will perform maneuvers as a group. These small units form larger battle-groups headed by either Optii or Centurions.

Optio (Sergeant): Optii are the mainstay of the Aeternian Legion, frequently leading groups of six units (thirty-six soldiers, as well as their commanding Decanii). These battle-groups operate as smaller individual armies, taking some independent action within the whole of the Legion. Optii are also the lowest rank in the Legion allowed to lead special force groups. For many of the special force groups in the Legion, these battle-groups are their regular operating units.

Centurion (Staff Sergeant): A famed unit in the Aeternian Legion, Centurions oversee the operations of the Optii and their battle-groups, as well as coordinate the actions of the entire Legion as a whole. They relay messages, aid maneuvers, and roar panicked Legionnaires back into place, ensuring the highest level of efficiency for the Legion. Centurions are purposefully visible in the Legion, symbols of order and security for the lower ranks, and stability and coordination for the higher ranks.

Primus Pilus (Highest-ranking Centurion in the Legion): The Primus Pilus is a position of honor for the most decorated senior Centurion in the Legion, more of a symbol rather than a true promotion. The Primus Pilus, a skilled warrior in their own right, disciplines and coordinates the Centurions of the Legion, and acts frequently as a field Imperator, serving as a base of instructions capable of operating entirely independently from higher-level command.

#### Commissioned Ranks

Prefect (Lieutenant): The Prefect is the lowest level of officer in the Aeternian Legion. These figures oversee the Centurions and their units, relay instructions from the higher-level officers in the military, and head special forces task groups, scouting parties, and high-risk operations with battle-groups of more veteran legionnaires. Occasionally, a promising Prefect may be placed in charge of an artificially-smaller division of the Legion (generally ten battle-groups, or three-hundred and sixty men) in order to test their command abilities for possible promotion to the higher commissioned ranks.

Tribune (Captain): Tribunes represent a true command rank within the Legion, tasked with leading entire divisions of the army. Each division is either a group of thirty regular battle-groups (one thousand and eighty men, plus their commanding/supporting staff), or fifteen battle-groups of special force soldiers. Tribunes are far more rare than Prefects, and are capable of leading entire expeditions on their own. Not only are these soldiers respected leaders and powerful fighters, they also frequently hold public office, aiding Aeternia both on and off the battlefield.

Legatis Legionis (Major): Majors are specific leaders appointed by the Praetors of Aeternia themselves, representing the pinnacle of Legion performance. Trusted, fearless, and intelligent, these figures are the main Imperators of the Aeternian Legion, keeping the army running smoothly whenever the Praetors are pulled away by governmental duty. Each Major commands a specific full corps of the Legion, divided generally by difference in duty or fighting style. The Majors in the Aeternian Legion follow a specific structure in their number and assignment, and each wields their authority with the direct approval of the Praetors, presenting a difficult face to argue with.

There are four Majors in command of the regular Legion, and one in command of each of the Legion's ten special force groups. Majors occasionally take charge more personally within a specific division or corps, such as Major Victor Ackas preferring to fight alongside the Whirlwind Blade Squadron, of which the Major was originally a member. Such command preferences are judged entirely on their efficiency, and Majors whose skill in command matches adequately - or above - their fellows are given freedom to lead as they wish. Majors are also the only Aeternian citizen eligible for promotion to Praetor, making them political candidates in addition to battlefield Imperators. The current Majors of Aeternia are as follows:

Major Rickas Trannith, Commander of the First Regiment

Major Augustus Tarmikos, Commander of the Second Regiment

Major Faris Hatim, Commander of the Third Regiment

Major Hikma Malak, Commander of the Fourth Regiment

Major Victor Ackas, Commander of the Whirlwind Blade Squadron

Major Adrian Clarke, Commander of the White Fang Squadron

Major Nadir Rifat, Commander of the Armor of Faith Brigade

Major Clarus Maximillian, Commander of the Dragoon Brigade

Major Sani Khalil, Commander of the Elite Shield Brigade

Major Davril Carter, Commander of the Sharpshooter Brigade

Major Eltin Arroway, Commander of the High Arcana Brigade

Major Ikram Sharazad, Commander of the Wurmrider Brigade

Major Patricia Valerian, Commander of the Warpshield Brigade

Major Sor'mon Astra, Commander of the Covert Operations Sector

Primus Legatis Legionis (Major General): The Primus Legatis Legionii are a step above their slightly lower-ranked counterparts, heading entire Legion Battalions. There are three Major Praetors, as the Platinum Legion is lead directly by Aeternia's Imperator. Primii are also eligible for promotion to Praetor, but their duties only give them slight weight in the eyes of Aeternia's Five Praetors; politically, these figures are almost equal, for the prestige of serving within the Platinum Legion roughly equates to being in command of a Battalion. The Primii are as follows:

Primus Ruwa Sabri, Commander of the Dustcloaks

Primus Felicia Gratia, Commander of the Iron Wardens

Primus Deonte Benedict, Commander of the Steelguard

Praetor (General): Aeternia's Five Praetors lead the nation with almost unquestionable authority. Each of the five Praetors has served within the Aeternian Legion for decades before their promotion to Praetor, giving them years of experience both on the battlefield and in public office. Politics play a lessened role in Aeternia, where skill in command, devotion to Aeternia, and intelligence mark a candidate for promotion to Praetor. Because any Praetor is chosen specifically by the Praetors already in office, and the decision must be approved by the Imperator, the leeway for Majors to battle each other over the position is sharply limited. Praetors hold their position for life, forcing a great deal of careful consideration when choosing a replacement.

The duties of the Praetors are specific to the Praetors themselves; at such a high rank, to limit the ability of a Praetor to a specific set of responsibilities which may not match their personal affiliation is considered wasteful. Therefore, the assignments of each Praetor change when a new appointment occurs, changing the structure of Aeternian command and focus. Currently, Aeternia has one of the most diverse sets of Praetors in its history, with their individual expertise being widely divided. The current Praetors are as follows:

Imperator Falcon Cultain, Praetor Primus, Legio Praenuntius

Praetor Gaius Vanorius, Praetor Secundus, Legio Primus

Praetor Elincia Dupraine, Praetor Tertium, Legio Abrogator

Praetor Laurana Faeera, Praetor Quartus, Custode Lares

Imperator (Imperator): The Imperator of Aeternia leads the nation and its military with full might and power, almost totally unopposed and unrestricted but for the four Praetors which they appoint. The most powerful of the Five Praetors both in militaristic and political respects, the Imperator is the public face of Aeternia towards the rest of the world, as well as the inspiring leader of the Aeternian Legion. Falcon Cultain is the current Imperator of Aeternia.

#### Special Forces in the Legion

Wolf Legionnaires (Whirlwind Blade Squadron and White Fang): Wolf Legionnaires are dedicated practitioners of a more ancient fighting style, one which harkens back to Aeternia's days as an Epimethean tribe living within the bounds of the desert-like Dreadlands. Fierce, warlike, and utterly ferocious, these warriors prize skill and power above all else, frequently more hotheaded and less-disciplined than their regular legionnaire brethren. Wolf Legionnaires markedly fight without shields, preferring oversize and vicious weapons such as flamberges, greatswords, halberds, or twin blades. Devoting themselves entirely to the practice of their craft, they train for hours each day with their chosen weapon, spending less time on the maneuvers and coordination in which the rest of the Legion partakes.

Wolf Legionnaires are split into two corps: the Whirlwind Blade Squadron, headed by Major Victor Ackas, and the White Fang, lead by Major (??). These two units are almost entirely different from one another, only joined under the title of Wolf Legionnaire due to their shared tenets: shield-less, limitless ferocity.

The Whirlwind Blade Squadron is almost a suicide assignment for many legionnaires. The mortality rate of the corps is the highest of any in the Legion due to the sheer aggressiveness with which the corps fights. Sent into battle when the losses the rest of the Legion has suffered are simply too high to sustain, or brought onto missions considered "too dangerous" for the regular Legionnaires, these soldiers are true exemplars of the attitude of the Legion - ruthless efficiency. Trained to make every trade almost a guaranteed horrific loss for an enemy force, they charge headlong into battle, wielding gigantic weapons and covered in lighter armor to allow them maximum maneuverability.

The White Fang are nigh-entirely separated in mentality from the other half of their shared corps, focusing on tightly-controlled personal cohesion rather than aggression. The tactic for which the White Fang trains is the elimination of powerful, singular enemies, such as Sybarite Revelers, Hextorian Seraphs, or even Oros Combine Autocrats. The maneuver for which they are known and named is the circling of such entities, forcing a situation where their deadly flanking practices can be brought fully into play. These units are called to the front to deal with enemies whose pure power or dangerous nature presents a difficulty for the rest of the Legion.

Covert Operations: The Covert Operations squadron, originally headed by the deceased Major Farden Quinlan, was created during the War of the Combine in order to counter the surprisingly high level of stealth operatives used by the organization. In the wake of the war, with the Major slain by the Combine and many of Aeternia's best stealth operatives also having been captured and summarily executed, Aeternia seeks to rebuild the program even stronger than before, beginning with seeking out a new Spymaster to head the endeavor.

Armor of Faith Brigade: A group of specialized legionnaires whose divine magic is their hallmark, the Armor of Faith Brigade is one of Aeternia's oldest Legion units. Instrumental in the earliest wars against the forces of darkness which crept from the southernmost points of Alancria, they were developed directly in response to such encroaching evil. These soldiers are tasked with banishing summoned creatures, handling undead or other evils, providing battlefield healing and bolstering for their allies, and combining their magical prowess into devastating divine strikes on the enemy.

Dragoon Brigade: Aeternia's grudging attempt at forming a cavalry brigade, the Dragoon corps went better than the Imperator at the time, Falcon Cultain, expected of the initiative. The Dragoon Brigade is Aeternia's fast-moving force which tears across the plains with powerful warhorses, leading devastating charges and blindingly fast scouting missions through enemy-held terrain, hitting supply trains and other vulnerable points of an enemy host with speed and vigor characteristic of their unmounted brethren. Currently, the unit is still fairly small, as it was created recently - at the urging of the allies of the Imperator.

Elite Shield Brigade: Aeternia's heaviest infantry, and a terrifying sight to behold, these soldiers are coated in the thickest armor, bear the most ridiculously heavy shields, and are absurdly difficult to slay, giving them fame even beyond Aeternia's borders. Legionnaires of the Elite Shield Brigade are called in when the amount of incoming enemy fire presents a risk too high for the rest of the Legion to even think about advancing through. Although the mages of the Legion, coupled with the shields which the legionnaires bear, present a powerful defense, there exists the possibility that the sheer weight of an enemy response will break even the hardened Aeternians, battering down their defenses and slaying them in droves. During these situations, the Elite Shield Brigade makes their name, advancing almost fearlessly into enemy attacks which would completely crush those outside their unit, layered in their famously heavy armor, and coated with defensive wards and spells thick enough to be visible with the naked eye.

Sharpshooter Brigade: One of two Aeternian units formed from regular legionnaires whose skills at their specific craft far surpass that of their allies, the Sharpshooter Brigade is comprised of veteran archers whose talent with a bow would be considered wasted if they were required to wield a sword and shield with the rest of the regular legionnaires. These pinpoint archers train for years to fire into pure melees between two opposing armies, striking exactly into enemy soldiers, taking down threats before they even reach the front lines of the Legion. The more adventurous and confident of the Sharpshooters stand just behind the front line themselves, acting as an effective second rank in their support of the legionnaires in front, firing at enemies just a few feet away - and often saving the lives of their fellows in the process, stopping a lethal swing or a weapon or an almost-executed spell.

High Arcana (Fortress and Salvo-class Magi): The High Arcana division represents the most powerful spellcasters of the Aeternian Legion, those who have turned their magic into a breathtaking and deadly art. Split into two classes by their area of expertise, their duties are either to support their allies, or so utterly devastate the enemy that they force either a response, or a full retreat.

Fortress Magi are the ultimate battlefield support for the Legion. A wave of their hand and a moment's concentration can create a deep trench; more concerted efforts can even build small fortifications or fortresses, springing up low walls and battlements over the course of just a few minutes. These Magi protect their allies with powerful wards and barriers, and many of their efforts focus on dispelling and counterspelling incoming enemy attacks which would otherwise disrupt Legion activity.

Salvo Magi are devastation incarnate; these spellcasters use the most awe and fear-inspiring spells directly on the enemy, causing minor earthquakes, planar vortexes, bolts of jagged lightning, gouts of scorching flames, and other ruinous effects. Every Salvo Magi is worth ten of their lesser companions, and presents a walking challenge to enemy spellcasters, frequently dueling with three or more simultaneously, aggressively forcing enemy casters to spend time countering their efforts rather than aiding allies or attacking the Legion directly.

Wurmrider Brigade: The Wurmrider Brigade is Aeternia's most surprising and fear-inspiring achievement. There exist within the Aeternian Legion those who would choose to tame the fearsome and monstrous ashworms which live beneath the sands of the Dreadlands, and done correctly these rider-and-worm pairs are devastating to enemy forces. Coaxed correctly, the worms can even be convinced to travel far beyond their usual lands, striking at enemies miles outside the Dreadlands in surprise attacks. Plowing through enemy lines to deposit troops or simply wreck cohesion, their segmented, ringed skin holds Aeternian legionnaires clinging to the folds, making the worms an effective way to reinforce struggling lines, or simply form an unstoppable offensive. To say that the worms themselves are an effective deterrent to enemy advance is a severe understatement.

Warpshields: The most "interesting" of the Aeternian Legion corps - and the most recently created - these legionnaires were commissioned after the War of the Combine, as Aeternia scoured through the wreckage of the defeated Oros Combine and salvaged all of the technology it could. Outfitted with re-purposed Oros Combine gear repaired and explained by the rare Combine defectors - or prisoners - which Aeternia managed to retain after the war, these legionnaires serve as a rapid-response unit.

Capable of fast insertions, these blitzing shock troopers are also almost entirely psionic, giving them a decisive edge over enemy forces which Aeternia is unknown for - which they use heavily to their advantage, cutting down surprised foes. Far from simply bringing themselves, however, more powerful psionic casters who can do more than manipulate the already built-in psionic technology in their armor and shields can create their own dimensional rifts, through which they bring even more Aeternian units to the field. The Warpshields are some of the most highly-trained Aeternian units, for they operate far from friendly lines, often going for deep insertions into enemy territory to disrupt areas previously thought untouchable by the Aeternian host.

#### Legion Battalions

Additionally, the Legion is split into four Battalions, each tasked with a different duty in service to the nation. Excepting the Platinum Legion, the rest of the Legion goes on regular rotations where they assume the duties of the other Battalions, in order to ensure well-trained soldiers capable in any field setting. The four Legion Battalions are as follows:

Dustcloaks: Desert-trained legionnaires specializing in the defense of Epimethea and its lands, as well as holding crucial defense points throughout the shared territory of Aeternia and Epimethea as a whole. They are the most frequent candidates for the Wurmrider Brigade, as they live in the same areas which the worms inhabit regularly. As Epimethea and Aeternia grew closer as nations, eventually becoming a joint entity politically, these soldiers helped unify the two together, helping the citizens of both nations, serving as a shared defense force. This Battalion has the highest percentage of Wolf Legionnaires, for the members of the corps enhance their training by learning directly from their most ancient inspiration - the Epimetheans themselves.

Iron Wardens: After the alliance with the new Epimethea, these soldiers were tasked with defending the Iron Line which sprung up across the southern portion of the Alancrian continent, stretching from a few miles east of Outer Aeternia to just a few miles north of the Southern Mountains. This Battalion of legionnaires holds the highest percentage of Fortress Magi aside from the Platinum Legion itself, for the Iron Line requires frequent maintenance. These legionnaires, coupled with the wall they hold, effectively section off the entire southwestern quarter of Alancria, for the Dread Barrier, and the natural barrier that is Aeternia itself, do the same for the northern border of the nations. The southern border, of course, is formed by the mountains below the nations, and the western border by the Western Sea.

Steelguard: The legionnaires whose purpose is to guard the hearts and minds of their people from a closer distance are no less-trained than any of their brethren, thanks to their frequent rotations. This Battalion exists completely within the Aeternian lands themselves, serving as everything from a policing force to helpful workers, aiding the Aeternian infrastructure by constructing buildings, roads, and fortifications across the nation. Once these same legionnaires enter a rotation as Dustcloaks, they frequently aid the Epimethean people as well in the same fashion. This Battalion also contains a number of Fortress Magi, though not nearly so many as the Platinum Legion or the Iron Wardens.

Platinum Legion: Aeternia's most highly trained and powerful military force, the Platinum Legion does not enter rotations with other Legion Battalions; rather, they spend all of their time training and fighting relentlessly. The Platinum Legion is the present-day representation of the elder Aeternian Legion, and still retains the name - when the term "Aeternian Legion" is used in present context, one refers to the Platinum Legion, with their shining, polished shields which reflect their enemy's visage. To be granted membership to the Platinum Legion is the highest honor a legionnaire can receive, and many vie for appointment by performing as best they can in their given roles. The Platinum Legion features the majority of governmental appointments, as all of the Aeternian Majors are contained within its ranks, as well as many of the Legion's more senior personnel as a whole. The Platinum Legion also contains the majority of Aeternian special forces, and benefits from their best technological and militaristic advances.

#### Legion Training and Gear

The Legion fights with a combination of gear from many aspects of their history and training. The standard-issue lorica, gladius and scutum adorn them - an oddly-light yet still protective full body armor, leaving one's arms and legs free for mobility; a short sword perfect for thrusting out from behind shields; and their classic, massive tower shield which would take two untrained men to even lift, let alone effectively utilize.

Legion training is intense, frequently pitting legionnaires against each other in order to better simulate real combat. These battles can range anywhere between several thousand legionnaires crashing together in massive battle lines, to single legionnaires fighting in a duel. Legionnaires are expected to be powerful, proud warriors, even without the support of their fellows, and although they truly excel when surrounded by their comrades, even an isolated legionnaire is not an easily ignored threat.

Legion training, therefore, involves a great deal of constant combat. However, a large portion of the training which a legionnaire undergoes is educational in nature, and such an important aspect cannot be overlooked. In addition to the regular combat-based training which legionnaires partake in, there is an entire set of schooling administered to all ranks of the Legion, involving the ability to read and write, understand mathematics and basic scientific theory, and comprehend - and innovate on - battlefield tactics. This education is generally provided in the schools that most young legionnaires start their careers in as children, but is additionally reinforced throughout the rest of the Legion preparation.

#### Epimethean Influence

Though the Legion itself is primarily a Belgian construct, the influence of the native Aeternians' Epimethean heritage cannot be overlooked, as the ideas which were incorporated into the Legion make it far more ruthlessly efficient.

The duels which many legionnaires partake in are derived from such Epimethean influence - an artifact from their tribal days. Duels are common in Aeternia, and regarded with a high degree of respect and enthusiasm. Used as a training exercise, way to settle disagreements, or simply a method of determining who, among the Legion, is the most powerful, duels are well-loved among the people. In fact, much of the primary combat capability of legionnaires stems from the frequent dueling which occurs between them.

It should be noted, however, that these duels are quite unlike any other form of duel which one may encounter across Alancria: they are a fusion of two cultures, as are many things within Aeternia's bounds. Rather than a traditional duel, where both combatants are armed and ready, fight cleanly, and hold themselves to specific standards, Aeternian duels can range anywhere from this honorable challenge to a downright "brawl", which many of the legionnaires use to describe some of their most interesting fighting experiences. Aeternian duels are a modification of the traditional duel, stemming from both their Epimethean heritage and their battlefield experience. To an Aeternian, a traditional duel holds little use, as such tactics will never find their place on the field of battle; better, then, to practice simply winning by any means necessary, using any tactic necessary beyond that which is utterly underhanded or malicious. Their Epimethean heritage only reinforces this display of utter savagery, perhaps one of the last clear indicators of the native Aeternians' paradigm shift from an Epimethean tribe into their current state. True "Aeternian duelists" are almost universally members of the Wolf Legionnaire subset, and are the closest living throwback to the original tribal members, generations ago.

Of the Wolf Legionnaires, it must also be noted that they, too, are descendants of the Epimethean heritage which affects all Aeternians. The Wolf Legionnaires are the closest living example of the ancient Aeternian fighters which roamed the sands of the Dreadlands, and their sheer, unbridled, ferocious power is a testament to the skill of an Epimethean tribe in battle. The unit began within the Legion as a group of fighters so individually skilled that their talent was wasted within a shield wall; whether their prowess in battle was either best displayed singularly or simply too destructive and wild for allies nearby, their style did not mesh well with the Legion's traditional fighting manner. Therefore, such fighters were congealed into the Wolf Legionnaire unit, a specialized force within the Legion whose sole purpose is to become the most powerful individual fighters on the continent, using all manner of savage fighting, brutal tactics, and destructive power. Though they are trained initially as basic legionnaires, brought up within the shieldwall, they are considered a wasted asset if kept in regular formation in such a manner. Rather, the Wolf Legionnaires, specialize without shields, and are only passable at fighting with the heavy encumbrance of a Legion scutum.

#### Military Aid

Aeternia's famed Legion does not just make its name on the battlefield, however. Though its fighters are ruthlessly efficient, and its history as an unparalleled infantry force is impeccable, many of its actions and occupations interest historians far greater when discussing its role within the nation of Aeternia itself. The Legion, with its uncannily close relationship to the people of Aeternia bound by blood and tradition, is an almost unsurprisingly titanic force not just in military endeavors, but also the economic and industrial sectors of its home nation as well. When the Legion is not pursuing war against the enemies of Aeternia, many of its members are tasked firmly with aiding the nation itself.

Legionnaires constructing roads, schools, homes, fortresses and more is a common sight within the bounds of Aeternia, for the skill of the Legion at construction in general is perhaps one of their finer points. Though legionnaires are only trained in basic battlefield construction, with slight oversight the Legion can be turned effectively into a massive force of able-bodied engineers, all working towards the architectural improvement of the nation they call home. Most of the later buildings constructed in all Aeternia were built by the same hands that wield blades in its defense.

Similarly, many legionnaires are also dispersed to fulfill other roles - smithing, mining, and farming primarily. The Legion of Aeternia will apprentice its members to various shops, guilds, and farmers, frequently showing up almost unannounced to many of these residences with several dozen men and women in tow, handing them to those in charge, and leaving again, only to repeat the same action elsewhere. Such a course of action serves three purposes: to bond the people and the Legion more closely together, to substantially aid the general infrastructure of Aeternia, and to give legionnaires more skills which are occasionally difficult to teach during regular Legion training. The practice of sending legionnaires out into the fields of their home for "rotations" is a much-loved practice, both by Aeternia's people, and the legionnaires themselves, many of whom are eager to learn skills or trades beyond war.

Finally, the Aeternian Legion also acts as its primary policing force. On most every street corner, legionnaires can be seen casually sitting around and chatting, calling out passerby they recognize and mock-fighting with each other. As the general attitude shared between the people and the Legion is so powerfully positive, such a large presence of legionnaires - especially closer to the capital - is regarded as a measure of safety, rather than a threat. To date, Aeternia is the only nation on the continent which uses its primary military force as a policing unit, and many claim that this action is partially responsible for the drastically low crime rates.

#### Soulguards

The Legion Soulguard is a unique aspect of Aeternian culture, a true fusion of its original sources, inspired wholly by the desire that the people of its land become bonded together even more tightly than before, that not even death might break their kinship. When the current Soulguard nears death, the Aeternian god Fides will designate the next in "line" for succession, and the transferal of duty is accompanied by a grandiose ceremony, as - to the Aeternian people - it represents one of their most sacred rites.

The Legion Soulguard protects the souls of Aeternians who have fallen in battle from plunging into the Maw of Anarchy, the Aeternian view of hell where every soul is left to fight for itself, alone in the dark and beset on all sides endlessly by wave after wave of enemies. The Aeternian belief that one's connections and bonds in life will form a web in death which will trap the soul from plunging into the abyss below is reinforced by the Soulguards; these mythical figures, hardly known outside Aeternia and subject of much disbelief, serve as a repository for the fallen Aeternian souls, and are even capable of "calling back" from beyond the dead the soul of a fallen legionnaire.

Soulguards are popular figures in Aeternian mythos and literature, but their existence and true powers are kept relatively quiet outside the nation, as the existence of the Soulguard line is a closely-guarded secret, and - many believe - a vulnerability, for if the Soulguard is ever slain before the souls which they carry are passed on, the souls will be lost to the Maw of Anarchy, consumed utterly in an instant.

Soulguards are capable of both drawing strength from the massive amount of energy they carry within themselves - the fallen souls of millennia past - but also summoning these souls back to the physical, mortal realm in times of great duress. Souls summoned this way can be simple, incorporeal mists which serve merely as distractions on behalf of the Soulguard, and in this way they retain little of the intelligence or humanity they held in life; they are merely emotionless husks.

However, truly powerful Soulguards are capable not only of calling back the souls of the dead to serve, but also imbuing them with the power the Soulguards themselves carry. In doing so, these summoned souls fully enter the physical realm, even if just for a few moments. In these precious seconds, the souls recall their personalities and intelligence held in life, their strength just enough to reach out and grasp their memories which they brought with them to the afterlife. Such a course of action is immensely taxing on the Soulguard, however - and incredibly dangerous for the souls brought back, for if a soul made physical is slain again in battle, it is shattered, destroyed forever, not even entering the Maw of Anarchy; it simply ceases to exist, gone for eternity. No Aeternian truly knows where these souls go, but they are considered lost forever.

When Aeternian legionnaires pledge their lives to the Legion, they not only promise their service in life, but in death as well - that the Soulguards may do just this; summon their souls back from beyond the realm of life in order to survive for just another moment. This represents the ultimate selflessness of the truly Aeternian character - that legionnaires are willing to give up their hope of an afterlife in order to serve the nation and Legion just once more. Fortunate, then, that most Aeternian views of the afterlife are an endless battle alongside trusted comrades and brethren, for that is what service to the Legion entails.

### Recent History

Recent events within the Blessed Land of Aeternia have been some of the most fascinating witnessed in millennia, awing those both within and outside the nation. To begin, one must examine first the most titular characters within the Blessed Land.

#### The Steel Centurion

Gaius Vanorius, the now-grizzled veteran Centurion of the Legion and Aeternia's Second Praetor, was not always so - originally, the man was born Aeternian, growing up in the usual Legion household, and worked his way through the ranks. Vanorius's dedication quickly became the subject of legend, as his fervent devotion to the Legion ideals and prosperity of the nation truly confounded many with their strength and vehemence. Many questioned the young legionnaire as he trained ferociously towards whatever goal on his mind at the time, but received little in the way of a response.

When Gaius Vanorius was chosen as the next Legion Soulguard by the previous successor in the line, however, a great deal of questions were answered simultaneously. Vanorius became hailed as a figure worthy of almost deific respect, and the nation elevated him almost instantly to the rank of Legion Imperator, placing their trust and faith in the man - to his eternal discomfort. Vanorius did what was necessary for the nation, including putting aside his feelings on leadership, and stayed true to the Aeternian ideals for many decades to come.

However, when Horatio Cultain - and later, his younger brother Falcon Cultain - arrived at the bridge to Aeternia, the nation's - and consequently Vanorius's - world changed utterly.

#### The Chosen of Fides

Refugees from a village miles to the south of Aeternia which had been destroyed by the rampaging waves of undead summoned by the necromancer known as the Emperor Shaytan, Horatio and Falcon were not only incredibly talented spellcasters, but - as Vanorius claimed - chosen by Fides to carry the great god's spirit. As to why two were chosen instead of one, Vanorius did not comment, and neither did the two young men which he shepherded. Suffice to say that once they arrived, Falcon years later than Horatio, a great many questions arose, but were hushed quietly as more important matters soon arose.

Horatio, the first to arrive to Aeternia, became a well-liked member of the Legion, training as nothing more than a simple rank-and-file legionnaire, and earning his occasional increases in rank through sheer skill and dedication, much the same Vanorius did himself. Horatio was the man's pride and joy for many years, as Vanorius watched the young man grow into a fully-fledged leader and legionnaire. Obsessed almost entirely with protecting those around him and preparing Aeternia for the coming decades, Horatio worked tirelessly to ensure Aeternia's continuing safety, and to save the lives of every legionnaire possible, frequently placing himself in the line of danger to protect others.

When the forces of the Emperor Shaytan finally arrived at Aeternia's doorstep, Horatio fought relentlessly, and with a ferocity which surprised even those closest to him. Like a man possessed, he struggled against the tide of darkness threatening to swallow Aeternia and all the southern realms of Alancria - and when, one day in the midst of the rising chaos, a bedraggled and barely conscious Falcon arrived in Aeternia, those around Horatio finally understood the man's prior resolve. When the two met, Fides appeared - an increasing rarity in recent times - and blessed them both, cementing the knowledge in the minds of the Aeternians that these two were meant to carry on the god's legacy.

In addition to Falcon, another arrived alongside the young man - a close companion and friend, a halfling simply named Farden. Only Falcon claimed to ever know his true name, and the young man never disclosed it. The two were traveling companions for years prior, having visited most every corner of the continent as the young Falcon grew over the two-year period into a respectable warrior. Farden easily demonstrated a skill far belying his easygoing exterior, and when Falcon joined his brother in Aeternia, the halfling was given the position of Fifth Praetor of Aeternia, and the nation's spymaster.

When compared to his older brother, Falcon was far more the firebrand, frequently stirring up trouble which sent Vanorius striding off to every corner of the realm to corral the young man. Though just as driven and focused, Falcon lacked somewhat the discipline which marked his older brother, and it was not until Legion training that the young man finally realized his true potential.

Just as Horatio had, Falcon took to Legion training with zeal, clearly meant for the cooperative and unified scenarios in which the soldiers preferred - but where Horatio protected the his fellows with shield and healing, Falcon safeguarded them with sword and fire. The two became a pair quite unlike anything else the Aeternians knew, and these strange young men soon became, for their strength and dedication, leaders of Aeternia. Horatio took the title of Imperator from a relieved Vanorius, who - for the rest of his days - was content to stay a Praetor, watching over the nation with keen eyes. Falcon initially took the rank of a sixth Praetor of Aeternia, but in reality the man stayed a legionnaire for many years, content to stay part of the Legion which he adored with characteristic fervor.

Years passed as Horatio lead the nation steadily, while his younger brother trained with the same relentlessness Horatio had previously. Aeternians would always remember the two in the years to come - Horatio's caring, knowing smile, and Falcon's roguish, boyish personality, different as the sides of a coin. Yet, the histories show, the two cared for each other quite strongly, frequently sparring in incredible bouts of magical strength and physical agility. Horatio's leadership became the subject of legend, and even as Aeternia fought endlessly against the tides of darkness which swept up from the south, Aeternia entered - if only briefly - a golden age, where the man's steady hand guided the nation ever further into prosperity. The Legion ranks, inspired by legends of the young duo, swelled to almost twice their previous size, and the Aeternian people were content.

#### The Fall

As the war with the Emperor Shaytan drew to a close, Horatio was struck with a realization - unless the Aeternian Legion left its borders for the first time in millennia and struck out at the Emperor Shaytan, the creature would escape to raise yet another army, and the suffering would drag on for the continent as a whole. Thus resolved, Horatio contacted the other Aeternian generals, beginning the first mobilization of the Legion in preparation for leaving the nation. Weeks later, the force set out - five thousand loyal, brave legionnaires, headed by Horatio, Falcon, Vanorius, and the other Aeternian generals, while the remainder of the force held fast within the nation's borders, safeguarding the rest of its people.

The Aeternian force trapped the Emperor Shaytan within a small forest to the southwest of Aeternia, struggling against the waves of undead which crashed against their shields, pushing their way between the trees to penetrate deeper into the darkened, murky gloom. The Emperor Shaytan's magic pervaded the land, turning the very flora and fauna against the beleaguered legionnaires, and the Praetors realized that if no one managed to slay the creature, the force might very well be trapped, unable to leave for fear of being slain outright, yet unable to move closer, held back by the sheer pressure of the enemy horde. In this moment, Horatio made a decision, one which would change the course of Aeternia forever - to face the Emperor Shaytan alone, in the forest's center, where the abhorrent creature had chosen to make its final stand.

Horatio left the Legion fighting in the grove, followed only by Falcon, who felt unable to let his brother depart without aid. In the ensuing battle, Horatio slew the Emperor Shaytan, striking down the mad necromancer with divine light and blade, and as the dread creature's body hit the dirt with a soft thud, it dissipated, leaving no trace. The battle ended soon after, as the creatures which the Emperor Shaytan had summoned to the Material Plane or ripped from the ground itself soon lost their wicked intelligence and strength, left only to be struck down in droves by the furious Legion.

Not one member of the Legion knows what happened afterwards save for Falcon. Though the man's frantic and grief-stricken recounting is well-known among the Legion and the people of Aeternia, the truth of the matter is that only Falcon witnessed what occurred within the grove of trees where the Emperor Shaytan and Horatio battled. When Falcon emerged from the trees coated in his brother's blood and carrying the man's slain body, Aeternia cried out as one.

Their leader was dead, and his brother left to try eternally to fill the void left by his passing.

#### The Age of Strife

Following the death of its beloved leader, Aeternia underwent a long period of grief marked by the retreat of its Legion and the definitive closing of its borders, known as the Age of Strife. During this time, Aeternians regarded the outside world with everything from cold dismissal to outright anger, and the refugees which arrived at their border seeking aid were left to fend for themselves, pursued by whatever remnants of the Emperor Shaytan's magic yet hunted across the lands. During this same period, the lack of stability provided by an active Aeternian Legion coupled with the death of the Emperor Shaytan and the sudden destruction of his forces created a massive power vacuum which many other malign forces rushed to fill. The Hextorian and Sybarite forces, as well as many other southern and eastern groups, saw rises in their power as their territories expanded and new recruits flocked in by the thousands, disillusioned with Aeternia - or simply not admitted within its borders. Whether they sought power, protection, or aid, these people found a home regardless, fighting under banners which Aeternia would soon come to clash against as enemy.

The tensions during this time between the Aeternian people rose immensely. Where there was once unity, factions formed of desperate and grief-stricken individuals who found it impossible to believe their leader had fallen. Many even blamed Falcon, and their accusations, coupled with the turning of one Aeternian on another, sent the young man into such a deep depression that he locked himself away for many months within the Grand Keep, while below him the nation slowly fell further into desperation.

The Sons of the Hawk, a notable separatist group during the Age of Strife, represented under their banner the most vocal and furious group who resented the rule of Horatio's younger brother. Formed primarily from legionnaires, many of whom were personally acquainted with Aeternia's late leader, they left Aeternia, forsaking their legionnaire vows in an unheard-of act of desecration and shattering of the unity which Aeternia had stood upon proudly for generations. This action shocked the nation as a whole, as roughly a full thousand legionnaires departed for lands unknown, seeking only to escape the nation they had once called home.

During this same period, Vanorius and the other Praetors of Aeternia struggled viciously to hold the nation together, making frequent public appearances, and bringing out the Legion in full strength whenever necessary to quell unrest or aid the public. Additionally, Vanorius visited Falcon frequently in the Grand Keep, keeping an eye on the young man.

When Falcon emerged at last from the Grand Keep, he had donned his old traveling cloak, blue etched with silver and the emblem of a falcon on its back with wings outstretched. He forwent the vestments which would mark him as the Imperator of Aeternia, and claimed himself no better than a legionnaire, yet led them still, unwavering. During this time, the borders of Aeternia re-opened, and Falcon gave his all to rebuilding the nation - and more importantly, restoring its trust in itself, and in him.

In the coming years, Falcon was dangerous, in a way. Emotional, unpredictable, quick to anger and displaying nothing of his previously roguish demeanor, he instead focused with eerie intensity on crushing the enemies of Aeternia wherever they could be found. Frequently, the young man would lose himself in his training, and it became meditative for the young man to spend hours a day on the training grounds, fighting battle after battle, pushing the limits of his body. Even as he trained his days away, Falcon struggled to lead the nation which threatened to collapse around him. His mistakes were many, but the most grievous that the young leader suffered was the war with the Oros Combine.

#### The Combine Offensive

A corporation-turned-country with the most technologically advanced military on the planet, the Oros Combine based its power in Romume, turning the capital of the Epimethean lands from the shell it was after the defeat of its people at the hands of Dauntina into a thriving business center. Falcon, drawn into the war by his allies from a group known as "the Party", pledged his personal support in the war for independence which the Epimethean people undertook in a historic struggle which fascinated historians for centuries to come. What the young man failed to understand was that one does not simply challenge the leader of an entire nation to single combat, and his attempts to keep his nation at home out of the combat failed as Aeternia was increasingly encroached upon by Oros Combine forces, culminating in a devastating attack which utterly destroyed the ritual magic barriers of the nation.

A bomb detonated within Inner Aeternia's borders, set off by the Oros Combine agents which had infiltrated the land under the guise of returning a captured Farden and several other Aeternian stealth operatives and legionnaires. The explosive, unlike anything ever witnessed previously on the continent in its scale, power, and strange effects, devastated the barriers around Aeternia which protected it from the outside world. The ritual magic which had sacrificed a great deal of Fides' power and many of the lives of its followers, the barrier which had stood for millennia against the darkness, was now hanging by a thread, almost completely obliterated by the strange attack.

Aeternia was now vulnerable, at its weakest since just a few decades after its inception, and every force in Alancria took the opportunity to strike. Hextorians, Sybarites, strange construct armies from the south, and more sought the chance to attack the now-weakened nation, and the assault was nigh-endless, forcing Aeternia to shelter all its people - including the ones then residing in Outer Aeternia - within the borders of the Ariun Amisgal.

Falcon, incensed by this underhanded blow, turned with eyes full of hate towards the Oros Combine, and the Aeternian people, and its Legion, followed. In a move which for centuries would mark a turning point in Aeternian events, Falcon ordered the full activation and mobilization of the entire Aeternian Legion for the first time in its history.

The hammer blow formed from the fury and ferocity of the bloodied Aeternians struck the Oros Combine with all the intensity of a charging bull, and the Legion offensive struck deep into the heart of enemy territory, soon pushing the fighting to the very streets of Romume. In just over two months, the war had ended, with full independence and power being restored to the Epimethean people. Falcon promptly ordered a return to Aeternia, leaving a few thousand legionnaires within the city of Romume to scavenge the majority of the spoils and technology from the defeated Oros Combine before leaving himself, re-grouping with the Party briefly to discuss plans before returning to his homeland as well.

In the years that followed, Aeternia would enter a new age. Incensed by their prior defeats, furious at their deep wounds, and emboldened by their recent victory, Aeternia would at last enter the global stage...and it would do so in its unique style.

#### The Age of Steel: Aeternia Reforged

Upon his return to Aeternia, Falcon spent many weeks in deep conversation with his advisers, aides, and other Praetors, including arranging meetings with other separatist groups and discontent factions within the nation. Putting aside his prior anger, the young man evolved into a far wiser leader under the careful, more experienced guidance of his Praetors. Falcon fulfilled as many demands as possible, satisfying the groups one by one until at last, over a period of two years, Aeternia had rebuilt much of the former unity lost during the Age of Strife.

Once the reasonable separatist groups had been dealt with, Falcon organized an initiative to rebuild the Legion ranks, sending out the call not only to those within Inner Aeternia, but also to the beleaguered Outer Aeternians as well. As the Legion grew, Falcon used it relentlessly to crack down on the stubborn separatist factions which remained, too mired in their pain or tradition to enter negotiations. The majority of the Aeternian people, no strangers to the interference of the Legion and well-used to the authoritarian nature of the government, complained little as the Legion raided home after home, dragging furious rebels and dangerous criminals from their homes, exiling them from Aeternia with nary a second thought. Falcon worked tirelessly, frequently participating with the Legion itself, his calm leadership quelling the more nervous recruits throughout the following several months.

As the final separatist faction either fell or had its demands satisfied, and Aeternia returned to a united whole, its leader finally took up the true mantle of Imperator. Falcon entered the Grand Keep the day following the elimination of the final rebel group within Aeternia's borders, and emerged wearing the white robes which his brother had once donned. Across his shoulders still lay the same blue-and-silver cloak, a symbol to the people that he still lead from the front, refusing to forget his older, more adventurous ways.

With the nation's internal strength repaired, Falcon then turned to a plethora of activities which begged completion, beginning with the salvage of the defeated Oros Combine. Dispatching science teams guarded by additional legionnaire support, Falcon waited patiently as reports and materials hastily flooded across the border into Inner Aeternia, where they were immediately utilized as research catalysts or hammered into new shape as armor or weapons. In addition, Falcon seized the opportunity to frequently converse with the new Epimethean leader, an old friend of his - Danius Augustulus, now the Serpent King of the Wastes, Ruler of Epimethea, and Voice of the Spirals.

Talks between the two friends - and, by association, the two nations - continued for months while Falcon and Danius constructed a powerful alliance between the two swiftly-recovering forces. The pair quickly realized that a fully-united Epimethea, coupled with the world power which Aeternia was growing into, would make for an unstoppable duo. Forging an alliance utilizing the ancient heritage of the Aeternian people - calling them the "Lost Tribe" - Epimethea and Aeternia united far more closely than simply politically and militarily. The borders between the two nations dissolved, re-drawn to encompass the territories of both; their peoples were allowed free migration, trade, and labor in any sector of the new dual-nation; and most importantly, the two peoples eventually rejoiced at the shifts in culture provided by their alliance. Aeternians, once over their initial mistrust, were eager to "re-discover" their ancient heritages, while the Epimethean people interested themselves far more greatly with the militaristic advances their "younger cousins" had created.

As part of the alliance, resources began to flow across both borders, and Falcon turned the salvage efforts in Romume into relief efforts, helping to swiftly rebuild the Epimethean capital. The Epimethean people gained access to the far more fertile flatlands to their east, bordering just a few miles from the Ariun Amisgal, while the Aeternians gained the security of an entire western flank guarded zealously by the ferocious Epimetheans.

With the ranks of the Legion swelling at an unprecedented rate, new borders already being formed by the cartographers of both nations, and the talks of unity continuing between Epimethea and Aeternia, Falcon then turned to the Legion itself. The war with the Oros Combine had clearly shown the outdated nature of much of the Aeternian Legion, just as it had displayed its strengths. Feeling it long-overdue to revamp the Legion composition, Falcon worked carefully with his other Praetors and Legion officials to improve the time-honored military, while still preserving its heritage, and its well-earned reputation of ruthless efficiency.

Ever stubborn, Falcon was slow to develop traditional cavalry, citing many reasons as to why horses would be "nonviable" in either the arid desert or the flat savanna lands of the two joined nations. Eventually, the Dragoon Brigade would take a large role in scouting and patrolling for the Legion, but in the meantime, the Imperator focused his efforts elsewhere. The Imperator devised another series of solutions, ones which historians would continue to debate the validity of for generations.

The first was the initialization of the "warp-shield" program. A steady stream of refugees from Epimethean lands continued to flood into Aeternia for months after the war's end, and - coupled with those already present - a surprising number of psionically-gifted individuals showed themselves within their ranks. Falcon almost immediately took the opportunity to train a group of Aeternian legionnaires specializing in psionics, something the Imperator felt sorely lacking during the war against the Oros Combine. The psionic nature of Aeternia's enemies allowed them to tear through the relatively unprepared and surprised Aeternian Legion, and although certain divisions such as the Mindslayers existed, the protection such small divisions could offer was minimal at best.

Thus, Falcon created the "Warpshields" - psionic legionnaires capable of rapid, short-ranged teleportation used for fast infiltration or heavy assault. Those within the new brigade were trained relentlessly to increase their psionic capacity, until eventually their capabilities permitted them to bring others besides themselves through the short-range portals they tore open into other places on the Material Plane. This, in turn, allowed for not only the insertion of a small brigade of heavily-armed-and-armored legionnaires, but also a second brigade of legionnaires, support personnel, or even simply materials which might be needed elsewhere. The rapid mobility of the Warpshields soon proved a boon to the relatively slow Legion, allowing them to be nigh-everywhere at once.

Additionally, Falcon labored tirelessly alongside his new Epimethean allies to share the military practices between the Epimethean and Aeternian people, greatly increasing their efficiency. First, those in disagreement with the ideals concerning the "Loyalty of Aeternia", the very same exiled from their homes by the steadfast Legion, found themselves pushed purposefully instead towards Epimethea. These far more individualistic fighters, those concerned with their own power, skill, and glory, would make excellent Epimethean soldiers, Falcon realized. By receiving a steady flock of Epimethean people into his own nation while simultaneously sending out Aeternian rebels and separatists, Falcon strengthened both nations, while also solving the issue of separatism in the Aeternian state. Second, several new divisions of soldiers were created during this time, formed from either joint Aeternian and Epimethean forces, or from one side's cultural exposure to the other.

The Dustcloaks, a division of the Aeternian Legion specializing in desert warfare, became well-known for their eternally tan cloaks and lighter armor, and they soon adopted the ferocious fighting styles of the Epimethean people they lived alongside. Tasked with aiding the Epimetheans in rebuilding, as well as defending both the passes through the Dread Barrier and the winding paths up from the southern mountains, the Dustcloaks entrenched themselves deeply into the desert sands.

The Wurmrider brigade was something of a joke between the two leaders; neither Falcon nor Danius ever expected such a surprising number of both Aeternian and Epimethean volunteers to actually become skilled in taming the large ashworms which made their homes beneath the sands of the desert, yet their peoples' eagerness stayed their initial disbelief. Months later, an entire moderately-sized unit of almost three hundred talented legionnaires and Epimethean warriors had managed to bond with their own ashworms - and the militaristic and strategic benefits were staggering. Falcon had been the more relieved of the two leaders, as the presence of such a force aided his military's efforts to refuse the development of cavalry. The absurd mobility of the worms within the desert, coupled with their sheer size, allowed for rapid deployment of large numbers of legionnaires and Epimetheans to anywhere within the shared borders of the two nations, and with heavy coaxing the worms could even be convinced to slither their way into the flatlands south of Aeternia itself, making repelling an offensive against the further east of the two nations entirely viable.

Finally, many Aeternian and Epimethean units trained together to better forge a bond between their peoples, and to enhance their already ruthless efficiency. The White Fang division, though their name stayed, eagerly trained alongside the remnants of Epimethea's Wolf Tribe, learning from the very people who had inspired their initial creation. Similarly, many of Epimethea's soldiers were eager to learn more advanced spell casting from their neighbors, and within a few short years enough Epimetheans had developed magical talent to form a small task force. This shared training and exchange of knowledge continued in many forms, binding the people more tightly together, and making their joint military all the more powerful for it.

Just as Falcon joined Aeternia to Epimethea more closely, he also revitalized the industry of both Inner and Outer Aeternia. The forges burned brightly as weapons and armor, characterized by the high-quality craftsmanship for which Aeternia is praised, were turned out by the thousands. Roads were rebuilt, shelled-out buildings reconstructed, and the damage done by the recent wars, attacks, and civil unrest was repaired with zeal by the Aeternian people. Falcon even brought Inner and Outer Aeternia more closely together, by not only taking Legion recruits from Outer Aeternia, but also providing the people schooling, Legion support, and improving their infrastructure as well. As the Legion ranks continued to increase, Falcon split an entire third of the Legion into a task force specifically designated to remain within the nation, keep its peace, and defend against outside entities. These legionnaires, known as the Steelguard, were regarded highly as defenders of the most important portion of the country - its people. Finally, Falcon's final act was to split the now utterly gigantic Legion into another two sections - the Iron Wardens, and the Platinum Legion.

The Platinum Legion, Inner Aeternia's shining example of their "perfect" military, became the subject of all militaristic and strategic advances which the country could afford. The Platinum Legion served as Aeternia's primary presence in the world abroad, its true Aeternian Legion which the forces surrounding the nation would face in battle. Composed from the most exceptionally skilled, trained, and gifted legionnaires, the Platinum Legion became a legend even in name, as they took to adorning the fronts of their shields with the silvery metal. Trained with the Epimetheans, holding all of Aeternia's specialized in-Legion brigades, and ruthlessly efficient, the Platinum Legion stayed the hands of many Aeternian enemies for decades to come.

As the Epimethean people rebuilt, they swept furiously across most of the Dreadlands, annihilating any dissent or enemies which still stood in their path, bathing themselves in blood and fire to rebuild their nation. This advance swept across the southernmost portion of the Dreadlands and flatlands south of Aeternia as well, catching a large construct army - the same one involved in the prior attack on Aeternia's surprised legionnaires - unprepared. The resulting devastation forced the strange creatures back into the southern mountains, and secured the entire southwestern quarter of the Alancrian continent solely to the Aeternian and Epimethean forces - at least momentarily.

Seeking to cement this security, Falcon spoke at length with his advisers and his new Epimethean allies, and began construction shortly afterwards on a new project, which baffled Aeternia's neighbors - aside from the Epimetheans - for years. The Iron Wardens, an entire Battalion of Aeternia's Legion, were created to guard a wall which was constructed from just east of Outer Aeternia to a few miles north of the Southern Mountains. The Iron Line, as it was called, guarded by the Iron Wardens, represented an interesting line of thinking in Aeternian policy - the first extension of their famous defensive construction to regions miles away from Aeternia, as the nation effectively cut away the entire southwestern corner of the Alancrian continent, forming a new border utilizing the Dread Barrier and the other natural features of Alancrian terrain.

This wall guards the entire eastern Aeternian flank, and the absolute security of those within Aeternia's borders allowed for new expansion to regions thought lost to the enemy. The wall itself, created of stone and steel, is dozens of feet high, and punctuated every few miles with guard posts manned by joint Epimethean and Aeternian forces, with the faster Epimetheans serving as scouts and messengers, relaying warnings to nearby guard posts. A new type of signaling technique involving massive pyres was implemented as well to provide rapid notification of severe threats, creating a way to alert the entire Iron Line within a few minutes.

As Falcon's last and most current act, he revitalized Aeternia's stealth program, searching for - and finding - a new Spymaster - Sor'mon Astra, previous associate to The Party - to take up Farden Quinlan's old duties. Providing new schools, training grounds, and funding for the stealth program, Falcon watched as the program grew swiftly from just a few dozen recruits to a thriving several hundred operatives, easily a respectable force within the Platinum Legion's ranks. Once the stealth program had progressed enough that new teachers could be recruited from the ranks of its most senior members, Falcon allowed the Spymaster a more observatory role, though the enigmatic man nonetheless continued to teach occasional lessons personally. As Aeternia's Covert Operations corps grew closer to its current size, Falcon departed with Aeternia's Spymaster for the East, taking with him several hundred other Aeternian legionnaires, intent on righting the current unrest which wracks the Eastern lands.