Geliadi of Velaren

The Geliad of Velaren (Duchy of the Lotus in Velari) is an island nation near the center of the world, neighboring the Lordship of the Red Fortress to the west, and sitting comfortably in the north side of a bay. The country is a highly religious one, particularly around the World Lotus, which also acts as the center of religion for the Velari.

## History

### From Northern Homes to New Refuge

In past days, the people of present day Velaren were once part of federation known as Norta, and one of thirteen clans. Each clan consisted of their own religious practices, customs, and beliefs upon which they all were founded. However, one day a cataclysm shattered the federation from within, eventually only leaving two of the thirteen clans: the Velaren and Calore Clans.

These following the disaster would sail from their northern shores, and eventually find the bay of which the survivors called home. The people of Velaren would settle on a small island off the coast, while those of Calore would opt to settle on the mainland, although under their own banners. Calore would eventually become known as the Lordship of the Red Fortress, while the people of Velaren would go on to form the Geliadi Velaren, under the rule of Aenar Nelor.

### Founding

The Geliad of Velaren was formed on 23/10/2022 by Aenar Nelor (Just\_Shooter). It was then that the Nelor brought the seed of the World Lotus to the center of Velaren, and planted it to once again bloom, and serve as the center of religious affairs. Thus, Aenar Nelor was granted the title of Aenar-Geliad Nelor, and given reign over Velaren.

### Contact with Foreign Powers

Velaren has had trade relations with some local powers, the Pirate Empire of Wavecrest, and the Lordship of the Red Fortress, specifically the Red Fortress in supplying food for animal materials.

### Need for Exploration

While other nations were exploring their vast land claims, the Velari had just about explored their entire island, establishing road networks through the forests. But, there was a desire to explore beyond the seas, and so large trading ships were constructed. They brought back tales of even more nations, and a vast expanse of water called the Golden Sea, but most importantly it brought Velari into contact with the Kingdom of Marsov. The Pathfinder, although new was assigned a diplomatic mission, bringing aboard the Geliadi to the shores of Marsov to meet its king. While suspicion ran high on both sides, the cool heads of both leaders prevailed, and a friendship between the nations had begun.

### DISPUITES!

Soon after the meeting of Velaren and Marsov, another nation had risen near the latter, known as Yicia. What was unexpected was a unification of the two soon after, forming into the Malum Imperium, which took many by surprise. Its reach was long, stretching from one end of the Golden sea to the other, an empire to dominate the sea. With friendly relations between Velari and Marsov being still fresh, worry was not quite on the mind of the general Velari, but beyond the seas other nations protested their claims. Many disputed them, but did not take action, however one did: The Pirate Empire of Wavecrest. The Imperium claimed islands right next to the capital of Wavecrest, angering the emperor, and gaining an almost immediate response.

Others like the King of Lucille made proposals to reduce the reach of the Imperium, but they were steadfast in their choices, unwilling to heed to the demands. Negotiations were held between the Imperium and Wavecrest, but yet again they were not fruitful, and eventually led to war between the two neighboring countries: the Coaldosa War.

### Velaren's view on the Coaldosa War

The war in the eyes of the Velari was a shock, and seen as unnecessary, more so seeming like a test of strength rather than a fight over anything worth the struggle. However, it did socialite a response from the Velari public, who called for greater defense if such a tragedy were to arrive at their doorstep. With the knowledge of ship building gained earlier during the early days of trading, the idea of creating ships specifically for that purpose was thought of, however the Geliadi lacked the space for it on the home island. So, claims were made to an island south of Velaren, which later became known as Aenar's Landing. This island would serve the purpose of feeding the population more so, but also acting as a dockyard for the newly established Velari Navy.

## Trade

The trade of Velaren is mostly fish with some trade being that of metal. Being that the nation is completely surrounded by water, and lacks the sufficing land to produce large yields of crops and host farm animals, fishing and deep mining have become prudent to Velaren's economy.

## Religion

### History

World Lotus is a religion believing in a mystical plant called the World Lotus. To the Followers of the Lotus, it is the wellspring of all, and all that is can be trade back to the World Lotus. However, in ancient days, the lotus was burned and few seeds left to replant. Thus, the Followers of the Lotus sailed, and eventually found the island that would become Velaren. The seed of the World Lotus would be replanted, and eventually in time, could reach its full glory once more.

### Followers of the Lotus

When an individual decides to follower the way of the World Lotus, it is often shown through building, or planting a Lotus on ones property. This can be done in a variety of colors, but should be given space to grow, often a large patch of grass or a forest will do. The Followers tend to the Lotus, making sure to protect it, and to teach others about the World Lotus itself.

### Followers of the Wither Rose

This subgroup of the religion is more focused on the aspect of war, spreading through the destruction of others, and is often taken up by those more radical than the Followers of the Lotus.