Boreala

Boreala features expansive plains and woods bordered by the Frostshield Range to the north, rivers flowing southward supporting fertile farmlands, and a protected coastline in the south. The northern mountains yield vital mineral resources and act as a barrier against the harsh northern climate. Governed by a strong central system, Boreala's aristocracy is tied to land ownership for agriculture or resource extraction. The Council of Lords, comprised of landed aristocrats, settles matters of state through annual meetings, overseen by a Regent chosen by vote. The twin rivers from the Frostshield Mountains sustain Borealan agriculture, focusing on resilient crops and livestock. Winter prompts southern fishing expeditions, shaping maritime skills and trade. Resource-rich Frostshield Mountains contribute to Boreala's prosperity, emphasizing hard work, cooperation, and conservation. As a society on the cusp of change, Boreala, fueled by resource abundance, harbors a growing curiosity to explore the frozen northern plains, dark forests, and beckoning sea beyond its traditional boundaries.

## Geography

In it's Heartland, Boreala consists of a stretch of plains and woods bordered by a mid-sized mountain range to the north, a pair of rivers flowing south from the mountains on either side, leading to a coastline in the south protected by islands in the bay.  The northern mountains of the Frostshield Range provide important mineral resources that are mined and floated downriver, as well as act as a physical barrier for the unbearably cold climate beyond.  To the north is undeveloped and unsurveyed taiga.  The rivers flowing south support fertile farming lands on both sides, with important trading cities and the capital of Centras nestled between.  The Sapphire Sea lies south of the coast and supports fishing waters, and the islands of Nexys and ---.  The larger island of Nexys has recently been developed into a major port and trading center, supporting all ocean-going endeavors.

Borealans are witness to the many varying moods of mother nature.  Spring is wet thanks to the collision of cold northern winds and the arrival of southern tropical storms, which herald the beginning of planting season.  Summers are mild and comfortable, and a blessing to farmers, ranchers, and outdoor laborers.  Autumn arrives with a riot of colors just in time for harvest season, which is normally bountiful.  This is fortunate, because winter arrives quickly, ferociously, and lingers to test the people's planning and hard work.

## Government

Boreala has a strong central government, but it is not a monarchy.  Ownership of land for the purposes of agriculture or resource extraction qualifies one for a title of aristocracy, with varying ranks corresponding to land area and productivity.  Titles may be passed down through generations, so long as they uphold those lands and their bounty.  It is not unheard of for nobles to lose their titles for letting their lands deteriorate, or for commoners to be granted nobility in recognition for acquiring and developing lands of their own.  Matters of state are settled by annual meetings of all landed aristocrats called the Council of Lords, and enforced by a single Regent.  The Regent acts as head of state who is voted on by the landed aristocrats, with the number of votes they may cast determined by their rank/seniority.  The Regent is granted broad powers to ensure the will of the landowners is done.  The Regent holds office for as long as they live or unless there is a vote of no-confidence by 3/4 of the landed aristocrats.  Holding the title of Regent elevates the person's clan, however it is not a hereditary position.  A Regent must abdicate his or her position as head of their clan in order to serve in their new role.

## Industry

The twin rivers of --- and --- are responsible for making the Borealan plains fertile for agriculture, the literal wellspring of civilization on the continent.  During the warm growing months, farmers focus on grains such as corn, wheat, and soy, as well as root vegetables that are resilient to frost.  Ranchers also raise resilient breeds of pigs, cow, and yak-like animals that are especially well adjusted to cold.  Cheeses are also highly prized.  Borealan meals are often hearty, and foodstuffs are chosen to last through the winters.  During the winter months, fishermen sail south in order to supplement reserves.  Cold water salmon, cod, tuna, kingfish, and swordfish are abundant in the southern bay, and gave the Borealans the opportunity to develop their maritime skills and technology.  Vessels are built to be fast and agile, and to sail for many months at a time.  Borealans have lately realized their ships are also ideal for exploration and carrying goods for trade.

The Frostshield mountain range immediately north of the plains is rich in resources.  It is a simple matter for miners and loggers to pull valuable stones and timber, and float them downriver to awaiting engineers and architects.

## Culture

Living in a land with a limited growing season has taught the Borealan people some key lessons in order to survive.  First, it has taught them the importance of hard work.  A person's value in society is directly tied to their ability to contribute.  Any being who contributes to their society is themselves seen as belonging to it; race and sex are seen as irrelevant.  Next, it has taught them the value of cooperation for the purpose of shared interests.  Experience has shown that when two lords fight over choice lands, neither will be able to focus on agriculture, and both will starve.  And when other lords depend on them for key goods and labor, the entire civilization may be threatened.  But as important as serving the greater good may be, it is also understood that cooperation cannot be forced from the unwilling without the same risk of disaster.  For this reason, Borealans tend to be collaborative, yet fiercely independent, and tolerant of others' behavior until the collective is jeopardized.  Last but not least, they have learned a deep respect for conservationism and planning.  Resources are plentiful only as long as they are not taken for granted.  For this reason, Borealans are not a flashy people and view wasteful extravagance to be synonymous with foolishness and self-destruction.

This civilization is on the verge of a major change.  Resource abundance has enabled them to look beyond their common affairs for the first time and consider the world in which they live.  Their eyes and imaginations are turning to the frozen northern plains, dark forests to either side, and beckoning sea to the south.  The whole of society is feeling a growing urge to venture beyond their boundaries, not for reasons of conquest, but out of bold curiosity.