The Nornish Empire

## Overview

In Norne, all of the settlements are owned by various aristocrats and lords, which is well known by all of the citizens. Except for a few examples, the townships and villages are treated fairly well, though they do complain a lot about the high taxes and living cost. Each settlement is under the watchful eye of the NORM-Bots, huge hulking automatons which help to keep the peace, and provide constant surveillance. The capital city of Barrowbough is fed constant information from each town this way. Most of the Nornish population are used to it, though there have been more and more uprisings and complaints that their freedom is being hindered by the government.

Barrowbough itself is one of the most unpleasant places to live if you’re not in a position of power or wealth. It has an incredibly high poverty rate, with over 75% of it’s population living in slums located outside of the towering city walls. Most people simply have no place to go, and are forced to pick up the scraps of the rich. It is home to the famous MAMP College (Mystical Arts and Magical Prowess) where most of the research of the arcane takes place. Magical scholars from across Gherhun flock to the college in search of answers and wisdom. It is also where the NORM-Bots are created, and constant improvements are made. It is also home to many other famous universities and colleges with low acceptance rates, but easily recognizable across the continent. It is located closer to the middle of Gherhun.

The Nornish Empire is ruled over by a circle of wealthy families, an aristocratic government that keeps the peace by using money, magic and their seemingly limitless influence. The exact members and families that are involved are unknown. Of all the factions on Gherhun, Norne has the most powerful magical prowess and technologies, their intelligence a few years ahead of their main competitor, the Jaindall Empire.

## Affiliated Characters and Groups

### Nobility

The Nornish Empire is ruled over by several wealthy families with stakes in Nornish politics, industries, land ownership and other investments in the Empire. Not all families have the same levels of power and influence. Some families may even have seats on the shadow council that seems to run the Empire behind closed doors, though it is uncertain who knows the truth.

## House of Portsin

NORM-BOT developers and patrons of technology. Estate was damaged in the earthquake

## House of Serpineheit

See: Serpineheit Family

Appears to be a family of accountants, though the true nature of their fortune is unknown. Estate was damaged in the earthquake. Currently the fate of the family is unknown as Portsin has promised that the family name will all but disappear.

## House of Godrick

### **Known Members:**

#### Lord Godrick

Works alongside Augustine, Portsin, and Allondash on their schemes, but seems to be acting under Portsin's command.

## House of Franzet

A family of elves in the lower rungs of the nobility.

### **Known Members:**

#### Lord Franzet †

A seemingly honest man who paid for it with his blood.

#### Rudolf Josef Franzet †

Adopted son of Justice Serpineheit. Passed away in the most recently recorded dust storm.

### All Characters

* Augustine Vincendius
* Arctavian Portsin
* Lord Allondash
* Justice Serpineheit *(see also: Serpineheit Family)*
* Dimitri Montaine *(see also: Montaine Family)*
* Verity Fiorello
* Z (Formerly)